bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Current Evidence in the Management of Premalignant Cystic Lesions of the Pancreas in Patients Undergoing Liver Transplantation
Authors: Babu Benoy I. , Shapiro A. M. James
Published: April 2022

Incidental premalignant pancreatic cystic lesions (pPCLs) are increasingly being detected in patients undergoing orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT). The impact of chronic immunosuppression upon pPCLs may elevate risk of progression to pancreatic cancer. This systematic review assesses prevalence, outcome, and management of pPCLs in patients undergoing OLT. Systematic literature searches were performed in accordance with Cochrane review guidelines. Data on 658 patients were identified from 13 articles. Median age was 59 years with a prevalence of 6.2%. Most studies focused on branch-duct intraductal papillary mucinous neoplasms. Average cyst size at diagnosis was 10.3 mm. Six patients (0.9%) underwent pancreatic resection, post-OLT, for suspected “worrisome features” on imaging. One death was due to pancreatic-related cancer, post-OLT. Based on the review, the authors suggest the following: (1) patients with pPCLs undergoing OLT, without “worrisome features,” should be followed conservatively; (2) presence of pPCLs alone should not preclude eligibility for OLT, nor should chronic immunosuppression be altered; (3) follow-up should parallel standard approach applied in immunocompetent patients, as development of “worrisome features” of cancer is rare and does not appear to be hastened by immunosuppression; (4) resection is recommended for surgically fit patients without portal hypertension that develop “worrisome features.”
Resection Prolongs Overall Survival for Nonmetastatic Midgut Small Bowel Neuroendocrine Tumors
Authors: Bangla Venu Gopal , Wolin Edward M. , Kim Michelle Kang , Divino Celia M.
Published: April 2022

Objectives

This study aimed to understand if resection (RS) for nonmetastatic small bowel neuroendocrine tumors (SBNETs) prolongs 5-year overall survival.

Methods

Patients from National Cancer Data Base with primary histologically confirmed SBNETs from 2007 to 2016 were included. Patients younger than 18 years, with the disease in the duodenum/Meckel diverticulum or metastatic disease were excluded. We assessed 5-year survival rates using Kaplan-Meier curves and multivariate Cox proportional hazards regression after RS, nonresection surgical management (NRS), or no resection (NR). Multivariate models were adjusted with age, sex, race, insurance, Charlson-Deyo comorbidity score, academic facility, primary tumor location, clinical T, clinical N, stage, and grade.

Results

We identified 4180 patients. On average, patients were 64 years old (standard deviation, 12 years), male (53%), and White (84%). The majority received RS (91.8%) as opposed to NRS (4.0%) or NR (4.2%). Patients who received RS versus NR had increased survival rates (84.2% vs 73.9%; univariate log-rank, P < 0.0001; multivariate hazard ratio, 0.73; 95% confidence interval, 0.53–0.99; P = 0.04). No statistical difference in survival was observed for NRS versus NR.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first national study to evaluate survival after RS for nonmetastatic SBNETs. Results suggest that RS of SBNETs may prolong 5-year survival.
Survival Impact of Perioperative Red Blood Cell Transfusion During Pancreatectomy in Patients With Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma
Authors: Kitano Yuki , Yamashita Yo-ichi , Matsumoto Takashi , Kinoshita Shotaro , Itoyama Rumi , Kaida Takayoshi , Hayashi Hiromitsu , Imai Katsunori , Chikamoto Akira , Baba Hideo
Published: April 2022

Objectives

The aim of this study was to show the real impact of perioperative red blood cell transfusion (PBT) on prognosis in patients who underwent pancreatectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.

Methods

Patients who underwent pancreatectomy between 2004 and 2018 were enrolled. Short- and long-term outcomes in patients who received PBT (PBT group) were compared with those who did not (non-PBT group).

Results

From a total of 197 patients, 55 (27.9%) received PBT, and 142 (72.1%) did not. The PBT group displayed a higher level of carbohydrate antigen 19-9 (P = 0.02), larger tumor size (P < 0.001), and a higher rate of lymph node metastasis (P = 0.02), and underwent more frequent pancreaticoduodenectomy (P < 0.001) and portal vein resection (P < 0.001). Before matching, recurrence-free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS) in the PBT group were significantly worse than the non-PBT group (RFS: hazard ratio [HR], 1.73 [P = 0.002]; OS: HR, 2.06 [P < 0.001]). After matching, RFS and OS in the PBT group were not significantly different from the non-PBT group (RFS: HR, 1.44 [P = 0.15]; OS: HR, 1.53 [P = 0.11]).

Conclusions

Our results show that PBT has no survival impact in patients who underwent pancreatectomy for pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma.
Development of Nurse-Sensitive, Emergency Department–Specific Quality Indicators Using a Modified Delphi Technique
Authors: Wolf Lisa , Delao Altair , Perhats Cydne , Baker Kathy , Olson Catherine M.
Published: April 2022

Background:

There is no identified set of nursing-sensitive, emergency department (ED)–specific quality indicators.

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to address the gap in quality indicators specific to the emergency care environment and identify a list of nursing-sensitive, ED-specific quality indicators across ED populations and phases of the ED visit for further development and testing.

Methods:

A modified Delphi technique was used to reach initial consensus.

Results:

Four thematic groups were identified, and quality indicators within each were rank ordered. Of the 4 groups, 21 quality indicators were identified: triage (6) was ranked highest, followed by special populations (4), transitions of care (4), and medical/surgical (7).

Conclusions:

Many of the recommended metrics were questionable because they are nonspecific to the ED setting or subject to influences in the emergency care environment. Some identified priorities for quality indicator development were unsupported; we recommend that alternate methodologies be used to identify critical areas of quality measurement.
Telehealth Competencies
Authors: Dzioba Christina , LaManna Jacqueline , Perry Cynthia K. , Toerber-Clark Jody , Boehning Annie , O'Rourke Jenny , Rutledge Carolyn
Published: April 2022

Background:

The COVID-19 pandemic spurred a rapid uptake of telehealth utilization, with advanced practice registered nurses (APRNs) at the forefront of telehealth care delivery. To advance training of nurse practitioners and support curricular development, essential APRN student competencies in telehealth were developed.

Problem:

Although telehealth competencies have been developed, little is understood about their evaluation across the curricula. Moving to competency-based nursing education involves leveling broad competencies into subcompetencies, including those for telehealth. Subcompetencies support frequent, multimodal evaluation of student progress across APRN curricula.

Approach:

Adapting Benner's Novice to Expert Theory, faculty experts in telehealth and graduate nursing education used an iterative process to develop and level subcompetencies aligned with the Four Ps of Telehealth framework.

Outcomes:

Telehealth subcompetencies were leveled for preclinical and clinical rotations and for readiness for practice.

Conclusions:

The leveled subcompetencies, aligned with the Four Ps of Telehealth framework, will support APRN faculty in diverse programs as they implement competency-based education in telehealth.
Association of Lower Limb Focal Spasticity With Kinematic Variables During Walking in Traumatic Brain Injury
Authors: Williams Gavin , Banky Megan
Published: April 2022

Background and Purpose:

Focal muscle spasticity is defined as spasticity that affects a localized group of muscles. It is prevalent in many adult-onset neurological conditions, yet the relationship of focal muscle spasticity with walking remains unclear. Therefore, the aim of this study was to determine the relationship of focal muscle spasticity with the kinematics of walking in traumatic brain injury (TBI).

Methods:

Ninety-one participants with TBI underwent clinical gait analysis and assessment of focal lower limb muscle spasticity in a prospective cross-sectional study. A matched group of 25 healthy controls (HCs) were recruited to establish a reference dataset. Kinematic data for each person with and without focal muscle spasticity following TBI were compared with the HC cohort at a matched walking speed.

Results:

The TBI and HC cohorts were well matched. Only those with focal hamstring muscle spasticity walked significantly different to those without. They had significantly greater knee flexion (23.4° compared with 10.5°, P < 0.01) at initial contact. There were no other significant differences in kinematic variables between those with and without focal muscle spasticity. There was no significant association between focal muscle spasticity and walking speed.

Discussion and Conclusions:

Focal muscle spasticity and abnormal kinematics whilst walking were common in this cohort of people with TBI. However, focal muscle spasticity had little relationship with kinematic variables, and no significant relationship with walking speed. This finding has implications for the treatment of focal muscle spasticity to improve walking following TBI. Focal muscle spasticity had little relationship with kinematic variables and walking speed in this cohort of people with TBI who could walk without assistance.

Video Abstract available for more insights from the authors (see the Video, Supplemental Digital Content 1, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A381).
Rasch Validation of the Mini-BESTest in People With Parkinson Disease
Authors: Franchignoni Franco , Godi Marco , Corna Stefano , Giordano Andrea
Published: April 2022

Background and Purpose:

The Mini-BESTest is a balance measure with robust psychometric properties widely used in people with Parkinson disease. The aim of this study was to examine—with advanced psychometric techniques—some key properties of the Mini-BESTest (including unidimensionality, functioning of rating categories, internal construct validity, reliability indexes) in a consecutive sample of individuals with Parkinson disease admitted for balance rehabilitation.

Methods:

Confirmatory factor analysis and Rasch analysis (partial credit model) were performed on 193 individual raw scores of the Mini-BESTest items.

Results:

Confirmatory factor analysis fit indices and principal component analysis of the residuals confirmed the scale's unidimensionality. At Rasch analysis, the 3-level rating scale demonstrated appropriate functioning. All items fitted the Rasch model. Item response dependence was negligible. No differential item functioning was found across gender and age groups.

Discussion and Conclusions:

We confirmed and extended the evidence (demonstrated in different populations) on the general psychometric soundness of the Mini-BESTest, even when tested with rigorous statistical methods. In addition, 2 forms were created: (i) to transform raw scores into linear estimates of dynamic balance; and (ii) to compare the individual's item responses with those expected by the Rasch model (thus providing an aid for tailored interventions) and manage missing responses. Further independent studies using advanced psychometric techniques are warranted, also in people with balance disturbances of different etiology. Our study further increases the confidence in using the Mini-BESTest to assess dynamic balance in people with Parkinson disease and provides some useful additional clinical aids for interpreting the results and calculating more precise change scores.

See the Supplementary Video, available at: http://links.lww.com/JNPT/A384.
Parental Insights into Improving Home Pulse Oximetry Monitoring in Infants
Authors: Ferro Daria F. , Bonafide Christopher P. , Fregene Nicole , Ruppel Halley , Nelson Maria N. , Eriksen Whitney , DeMauro Sara B.
Published: April 2022

Introduction:

Home pulse oximeters prescribed for infants with cardiorespiratory conditions generate many false alarms, which create caregiver stress and sleep disturbance and can lead to unsafe practices. Additionally, relationships among oximeters, alarms, and everyday living demands are not well understood. Therefore, we aimed to gather parent perspectives on home pulse oximetry monitoring during the problem analysis phase of a quality improvement (QI) initiative.

Methods:

We purposively sampled and interviewed parents of infants prescribed home pulse oximeters and receiving local home care company services. We based questions on systems engineering frameworks previously used in healthcare. Data were coded iteratively and analyzed deductively (theoretical frameworks) and inductively (emerging themes).

Results:

Generally, themes aligned with theoretical frameworks. Parents expressed dissatisfaction with the number of false alarms home pulse oximeters generate, which parents primarily attributed to poor probe adhesiveness and the inability of oximeters to account for infant movement. Interviews highlighted the burden associated with poor device tones and portability. Device-related issues had negative repercussions for the entire family related to sleep quality, mobility, and social interactions. Universally, parents developed workarounds, including cessation of monitoring.

Conclusions:

Parents of infants monitored at home using pulse oximetry face many challenges, resulting in compromises in safety. Continuing to instruct parents to comply with prescribed monitoring recommendations may be unrealistic. Instead, we suggest re-engineering the home monitoring system with the needs and goals of children and their families at the center. Our description of adapting qualitative research and systems engineering methods may benefit others developing QI work.
Restoration of Proprioceptive and Cutaneous Sensation Using Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interfaces in Humans with Upper Limb Amputations
Authors: Vu Philip P. , Lu Charles W. , Vaskov Alex K. , Gates Deanna H. , Gillespie R. Brent , Kemp Stephen W. P. , Patil Parag G. , Chestek Cynthia A. , Cederna Paul S. , Kung Theodore A.
Published: April 2022

Without meaningful and intuitive sensory feedback, even the most advanced prosthetic limbs remain insensate and impose an enormous cognitive burden during use. The regenerative peripheral nerve interface can serve as a novel bidirectional motor and sensory neuroprosthetic interface. In previous human studies, regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces demonstrated stable high-amplitude motor electromyography signals with excellent signal-to-noise ratio for prosthetic control. In addition, they can treat and prevent postamputation pain by mitigating neuroma formation. In this study, the authors investigated whether electrical stimulation applied to regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces could produce appreciable proprioceptive and/or tactile sensations in two participants with upper limb amputations. Stimulation of the interfaces resulted in both participants reporting proprioceptive sensations in the phantom hand. Specifically, stimulation of participant 1’s median nerve regenerative peripheral nerve interface activated a flexion sensation in the thumb or index finger, whereas stimulation of the ulnar nerve interface evoked a flexion sensation of the ring or small finger. Likewise, stimulation of one of participant 2’s ulnar nerve interfaces produced a sensation of flexion at the ring finger distal interphalangeal joint. In addition, stimulation of participant 2’s other ulnar nerve interface and the median nerve interface resulted in perceived cutaneous sensations that corresponded to each nerve’s respective dermatome. These results suggest that regenerative peripheral nerve interfaces have the potential to restore proprioceptive and cutaneous sensory feedback that could significantly improve prosthesis use and embodiment.
Defining Diagnostic Error: A Scoping Review to Assess the Impact of the National Academies’ Report Improving Diagnosis in Health Care
Authors: Giardina Traber D. , Hunte Haslyn , Hill Mary A. , Heimlich S. Layla , Singh Hardeep , Smith Kelly M.
Published: April 2022

Background

Standards for accurate and timely diagnosis are ill-defined. In 2015, the National Academies of Science, Engineering, and Medicine (NASEM) committee published a landmark report, Improving Diagnosis in Health Care, and proposed a new definition of diagnostic error, “the failure to (a) establish an accurate and timely explanation of the patient’s health problem(s) or (b) communicate that explanation to the patient.”

Objective

This study aimed to explore how researchers operationalize the NASEM’s definition of diagnostic error with relevance to accuracy, timeliness, and/or communication in peer-reviewed published literature.

Methods

Using the Arskey and O’Malley’s framework framework, we identified published literature from October 2015 to February 2021 using Medline and Google Scholar. We also conducted subject matter expert interviews with researchers.

Results

Of 34 studies identified, 16 were analyzed and abstracted to determine how diagnostic error was operationalized and measured. Studies were grouped by theme: epidemiology, patient focus, measurement/surveillance, and clinician focus. Nine studies indicated using the NASEM definition. Of those, 5 studies also operationalized with existing definitions proposed before the NASEM report. Four studies operationalized the components of the NASEM definition and did not cite existing definitions. Three studies operationalized error using existing definitions only. Subject matter experts indicated that the NASEM definition functions as foundation for researchers to conceptualize diagnostic error.

Conclusions

The NASEM report produced a common understanding of diagnostic error that includes accuracy, timeliness, and communication. In recent peer-reviewed literature, most researchers continue to use pre-NASEM report definitions to operationalize accuracy and timeliness. The report catalyzed the use of patient-centered concepts in the definition, resulting in emerging studies focused on examining errors related to communicating diagnosis to patients.
Incidental Thyroid Nodule on Chest Computed Tomography: Application of Computed Tomography Texture Analysis in Prediction of Ultrasound Classification
Authors: Jo Jung In , Kim Jung Im , Ryu Jung Kyu , Lee Han Na
Published: April 2022

Objective

The aim of the study was to evaluate the value of computed tomography (CT) texture analysis (CTTA) in predicting ultrasound (US) classification of incidentally detected thyroid nodule (ITN) on chest CT.

Methods

A total of 117 ITNs (≥1 cm in the longest diameter) on chest CT scan of 107 patients was divided into 4 categories according to the Korean Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (K-TIRADS) classification on recent thyroid US within 3 months. Computed tomography texture features were extracted with or without filtration using commercial software. The texture features were compared between the benign (K-TIRADS 2; n = 21) and the suspicious (K-TIRADS 3, 4, 5; n = 96) nodules. Multivariate regression and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve analysis were performed to determine significant prediction factors of the suspicious nodules.

Results

The mean value of positive pixels was significantly higher in the suspicious nodules except the unfiltered image (P < 0.05). Entropy of the suspicious nodules was significantly higher with unfiltered and fine filters (P < 0.05), and kurtosis of the suspicious nodules was significantly higher with medium and coarse filters (P < 0.05). A logistic regression model incorporating mean value of positive pixels and kurtosis with a medium filter using volumetric analysis demonstrated the best performance to predict the suspicious nodules with an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.842 (P < 0.001, sensitivity 82.3%, and specificity 81.0%).

Conclusions

Computed tomography texture analysis for ITN larger than 1 cm showed significant correlation with systematic thyroid US classification and presented excellent performance to predict the suspicious nodules.
Evaluation of Guideline Adherence and Subsequent Follow-Up Outcomes for Incidental Thyroid Nodules Detected in Hybrid Academic-Community Practice
Authors: Lawrence Edward M. , Prout Tyler M. , Mankowski-Gettle Lori
Published: April 2022

Objective

Incidental thyroid nodules (ITNs) are common, and variability regarding follow-up and recommendation practices exist. The study purpose was to determine adherence to the American College of Radiology (ACR) ITN criteria and analyze recommendation outcomes.

Methods

ITNs listed in the impression section on computed tomography, magnetic resonance imaging, and positron emission tomography studies over a 6-month period were included. Report recommendations were compared with ACR white paper criteria for adherence (concordant recommendation) or nonadherence (discordant recommendation). Reader characteristics, further ITN workup, and pathology were recorded. A P value less than 0.05 was used for significance.

Results

Three hundred fifty patients (mean age, 64.6 years) were included with a median ITN size of 18-mm. Most nodules (289/350) were reported on computed tomography and were identified for follow-up due to size (235/350). Only 39 of 350 reports (11.1%) did not follow ACR recommendations. Patient age was significantly related to recommendation adherence (P < 0.05) as opposed to radiologist practice type (ie, community-based or academic) which was not. Nonadherence most often involved recommending ultrasound follow-up for nonactionable small ITNs. The rate of fine-needle aspiration biopsy from concordant ITNs was significantly higher than discordant ITNs (P < 0.05). Six patients, all with concordant recommendations, had malignant final pathology results.

Conclusion

Recommendation adherence to the ACR ITN criteria was high, approaching 90%. Nonadherence was mostly due to recommending thyroid ultrasound when not indicated and was correlated with a younger patient age. The rate of fine-needle aspiration biopsy stemming from nonindicated ultrasounds was significantly lower and did not result in the diagnosis of any malignancies.
Comparison of Prostate Imaging and Reporting Data System V2.0 and V2.1 for Evaluation of Transition Zone Lesions: A 5-Reader 202-Patient Analysis
Authors: Kim Nancy , Kim Sooah , Prabhu Vinay , Shanbhogue Krishna , Smereka Paul , Tong Angela , Anthopolos Rebecca , Taneja Samir S. , Rosenkrantz Andrew B.
Published: April 2022

Objective

The aim of the study was to compare the distribution of Prostate Imaging and Reporting Data System (PI-RADS) scores, interreader agreement, and diagnostic performance of PI-RADS v2.0 and v2.1 for transition zone (TZ) lesions.

Methods

The study included 202 lesions in 202 patients who underwent 3T prostate magnetic resonance imaging showing a TZ lesion that was later biopsied with magnetic resonance imaging/ultrasound fusion. Five abdominal imaging faculty reviewed T2-weighted imaging and high b value/apparent diffusion coefficient images in 2 sessions. Cases were randomized using a crossover design whereby half in the first session were reviewed using v2.0 and the other half using v2.1, and vice versa for the 2nd session. Readers provided T2-weighted imaging and DWI scores, from which PI-RADS scores were derived.

Results

Interreader agreement for all PI-RADS scores had κ of 0.37 (v2.0) and 0.26 (v2.1). For 4 readers, the percentage of lesions retrospectively scored PI-RADS 1 increased greater than 5% and PI-RADS 2 score decreased greater than 5% from v2.0 to v2.1. For 2 readers, the percentage scored PI-RADS 3 decreased greater than 5% and, for 2 readers, increased greater than 5%. The percentage of PI-RADS 4 and 5 lesions changed less than 5% for all readers. For the 4 readers with increased frequency of PI-RADS 1 using v2.1, 4% to 16% were Gleason score ≥3 + 4 tumor. Frequency of Gleason score ≥3 + 4 in PI-RADS 3 lesions increased for 2 readers and decreased for 1 reader. Sensitivity of PI-RADS of 3 or greater for Gleason score ≥3 + 4 ranged 76% to 90% (v2.0) and 69% to 96% (v2.1). Specificity ranged 32% to 64% (v2.0) and 25% to 72% (v2.1). Positive predictive value ranged 43% to 55% (v2.0) and 41% to 58% (v2.1). Negative predictive value ranged 82% to 87% (v2.0) and 81% to 91% (v2.1).

Conclusions

Poor interreader agreement and lack of improvement in diagnostic performance indicate an ongoing need to refine evaluation of TZ lesions.
Solitary Fibrous Tumor of the Spine: Imaging Grading Diagnosis and Prognosis
Authors: Shen Yiyuan , Ren Yan , Wang Weiwei , Wang Yin , Yang Yang , Wu Fei , Wang Junlong , Deng Yan , Liu Hanqiu
Published: April 2022

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the imaging features and prognosis of spinal solitary fibrous tumors (SFTs) of different pathological grades.

Methods

The clinical features, computed tomography and magnetic resonance (MR) images, and follow-up data of 23 patients with SFTs were reviewed. The patients were divided into 3 groups according to their pathological manifestations: grade 1 (n = 3), grade 2 (n = 14), and grade 3 (n = 6). The following imaging features were recorded: location, computed tomography density/MR intensity, enhancement pattern, dural tail sign, adjacent bone remodeling, lobulation, and tumor size. The immunohistochemical (Ki-67/MIB-1) levels were also investigated. All parameters were statistically analyzed between grade 2 and 3 tumors.

Results

The Ki-67/MIB-1 index was markedly higher in grade 3 tumors than in grade 2 tumors (P < 0.001). All grade 1 lesions appeared hypointense on T2-weighted image, whereas grade 2 and 3 lesions appeared isointense or mildly hyperintense. There were significant differences in enhancement type and osteolytic bony destruction between grade 2 and 3 tumors (P < 0.05). However, no marked differences were found in the distribution of age, sex, location, MR signal, degree of enhancement, compressive bony absorption, dural tail sign, or maximum vertical/traverse diameter ratio. Malignant progression occurred less frequently in patients with grade 2 tumors than in those with grade 3 tumors, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Different grades of spinal SFTs have different degrees of proliferation and imaging features, especially grade 3 tumors, which show a heterogeneous enhancement pattern, osteolytic bony destruction, and a higher possibility of recurrence and metastasis.
Cotransplantation With Adipose Tissue–derived Stem Cells Improves Engraftment of Transplanted Hepatocytes
Authors: Yamana Hiroki , Inagaki Akiko , Imura Takehiro , Nakamura Yasuhiro , Nishimaki Hiroyasu , Katano Takumi , Ohashi Kazuo , Miyagi Shigehito , Kamei Takashi , Unno Michiaki , Goto Masafumi
Published: April 2022

Background.

Hepatocyte transplantation is expected to be an alternative therapy to liver transplantation; however, poor engraftment is a severe obstacle to be overcome. The adipose tissue–derived stem cells (ADSCs) are known to improve engraftment of transplanted pancreatic islets, which have many similarities to the hepatocytes. Therefore, we examined the effects and underlying mechanisms of ADSC cotransplantation on hepatocyte engraftment.

Methods.

Hepatocytes and ADSCs were cotransplanted into the renal subcapsular space and livers of syngeneic analbuminemic rats, and the serum albumin level was quantified to evaluate engraftment. Immunohistochemical staining and fluorescent staining to trace transplanted cells in the liver were also performed. To investigate the mechanisms, cocultured supernatants were analyzed by a multiplex assay and inhibition test using neutralizing antibodies for target factors.

Results.

Hepatocyte engraftment at both transplant sites was significantly improved by ADSC cotransplantation (P < 0.001, P < 0.001). In the renal subcapsular model, close proximity between hepatocytes and ADSCs was necessary to exert this effect. Unexpectedly, ≈50% of transplanted hepatocytes were attached by ADSCs in the liver. In an in vitro study, the hepatocyte function was significantly improved by ADSC coculture supernatant (P < 0.001). The multiplex assay and inhibition test demonstrated that hepatocyte growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and interleukin-6 may be key factors for the abovementioned effects of ADSCs.

Conclusions.

The present study revealed that ADSC cotransplantation can improve the engraftment of transplanted hepatocytes. This effect may be based on crucial factors, such as hepatocyte growth factor, vascular endothelial growth factor, and interleukin-6, which are secreted by ADSCs.
Pre–kidney Donation Pregnancy Complications and Long-term Outcomes
Authors: Helgeson Erika S. , Palzer Elise F. , Vock David M. , Porrett Paige , Sawinski Deirdre , Matas Arthur J.
Published: April 2022

Background.

Hypertension and diabetes are contraindications for living kidney donation in young candidates. However, little is known about the long-term outcomes of women who had these pregnancy-related complications and subsequently became donors. In the general population, gestational hypertension (GHtn), preeclampsia/eclampsia, and gestational diabetes (GDM) are associated with long-term risks.

Methods.

Donors with the specified predonation complication were matched to contemporary control donors with pregnancies without the complication using nearest neighbor propensity score matching. Propensity scores were estimated using logistic regression with covariates for gravidity, blood pressure, glucose, body mass index, age, and creatinine at donation, donation year, race, relationship with recipient, and family history of disease. Long-term incidence of hypertension, diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and reduced renal function (estimated glomerular filtration rate [eGFR] <30, eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2) were compared between groups using proportional hazards models.

Results.

Of 1862 donors with predonation pregnancies, 48 had preeclampsia/eclampsia, 49 had GHtn without preeclampsia, and 43 had GDM. Donors had a long interval between first pregnancy and donation (median, 18.5 y; interquartile range, 10.6–27.5) and a long postdonation follow-up time (median, 18.0; interquartile range, 9.2–27.7 y). GHtn was associated with the development of hypertension (hazard ratio, 1.89; 95% confidence interval, 1.26-2.83); GDM was associated with diabetes (hazard ratio, 3.04; 95% confidence interval, 1.33-6.99). Pregnancy complications were not associated with eGFR <30 or eGFR <45 mL/min/1.73 m2.

Conclusions.

Our data suggest that women with predonation pregnancy-related complications have long-term risks even with a normal donor evaluation. Donor candidates with a history of pregnancy-related complications should be counseled about these risks.
An Elo-type rating model for players and teams of variable strength
Authors: Düring Bertram , Fischer Michael , Wolfram Marie-Therese
Published: April 2022

The Elo rating system, which was originally proposed by Arpad Elo for chess, has become one of the most important rating systems in sports, economics and gaming. Its original formulation is based on two-player zero-sum games, but it has been adapted for team sports and other settings. In 2015, Junca and Jabin proposed a kinetic version of the Elo model, and showed that under certain assumptions the ratings do converge towards the players’ strength. In this paper, we generalize their model to account for variable performance of individual players or teams. We discuss the underlying modelling assumptions, derive the respective formal mean-field model and illustrate the dynamics with computational results.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
A poor agent and subsidy: an investigation through CCM model
Authors: Goswami Sanchari
Published: April 2022

In this work, the dynamics of agents below a
threshold line
in some modified CCM type kinetic wealth exchange models are studied. These agents are eligible for subsidy as can be seen in any real economy. An interaction is prohibited if both of the interacting agents’ wealth fall below the threshold line. A walk for such agents can be conceived in the abstract gain–loss space (GLS) and is macroscopically compared to a lazy walk. The effect of giving subsidy once to such agents is checked over, giving repeated subsidy from the point of view of the walk in GLS. It is seen that the walk has more positive drift if the subsidy is given once. The correlations and other interesting quantities are studied.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
Opinion dynamics: public and private
Authors: Roy Subhadeep , Biswas Soumyajyoti
Published: April 2022

We study here the dynamics of opinion formation in a society where we take into account the internally held beliefs and externally expressed opinions of the individuals, which are not necessarily the same at all times. While these two components can influence one another, their difference, both in dynamics and in the steady state, poses interesting scenarios in terms of the transition to consensus in the society and characterizations of such consensus. Here we study this public and private opinion dynamics and the critical behaviour of the consensus forming transitions, using a kinetic exchange model.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Kinetic exchange models of societies and economies’.
In silico capsule locus typing for serovar prediction of Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae
Authors: Li Siou-Cen , Huang Jing-Fang , Hung Yu-Ting , Wu Hsiu-Hui , Wang Jyh-Perng , Lin Jiunn-Horng , Chen Zeng-Weng , Hsuan Shih-Ling
Published: April 2022

Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae

is a causative agent of pleuropneumonia in pigs of all ages.

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

is divided into 19 serovars based on capsular polysaccharides (CPSs) and lipopolysaccharides. The serovars of isolates are commonly determined by serological tests and multiplex PCR. This study aimed to develop a genomic approach for in silico A.

pleuropneumoniae

typing by screening for the presence of the species-specific apxIV gene in whole-genome sequencing (WGS) reads and identifying capsule locus (KL) types in genome assemblies. A database of the

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

KL, including CPS synthesis and CPS export genes, was established and optimized for Kaptive. To test the developed genomic approach, WGS reads of 189

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

isolates and those of 66 samples from 14 other bacterial species were analysed. ariba analysis showed that apxIV was detected in all 189

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

samples. These apxIV-positive WGS reads were de novo assembled into genome assemblies and assessed. A total of 105

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

genome assemblies that passed the quality assessment were analysed by Kaptive analysis against the

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

KL database. The results showed that 97 assemblies were classified and predicted as 13 serovars, which matched the serovar information obtained from the literature. The six genome assemblies from previously nontypable isolates were typed and predicted as serovars 17 and 18. Notably, one of the two “Actinobacillus porcitonsillarum” samples was apxIV positive, and its genome assembly was typed as KL03 with high identity and predicted as

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

serovar 3. Collectively, a genomic approach was established and could accurately determine the KL type of

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

isolates using WGS reads. This approach can be used with high-quality genome assemblies for predicting

A

.

pleuropneumoniae

serovars and for retrospective analysis.
Pretend play predicts receptive and expressive language trajectories in young children with autism
Authors: Vyshedskiy Andrey , Khokhlovich Edward
Published: April 2022

The effect of pretend play in 2 to 5-year-old children with ASD was investigated in the largest and the longest observational study to-date. Parents assessed the development of 7,069 children quarterly for three years on five subscales: combinatorial receptive language, expressive language, sociability, sensory awareness, and health. Pretend play was associated with superior developmental trajectories: 1.9-fold faster improvement of combinatorial receptive language (p<0.0001), 1.4-fold faster improvement of expressive language (p<0.0001), and 1.3-fold faster improvement of sensory awareness (p=0.0009). Pretend play had little effect on sociability and health. The strong association of pretend play with combinatorial receptive language remained significant even when controlling for expressive language. Similarly, the effect of pretend play on expressive language remained significant even when controlling for combinatorial receptive language. The effect of pretend play on combinatorial receptive language (but not on the expressive language) was stronger than the effects of seizures, sleep problems or high-TV exposure. The strong effect of pretend-play supports earlier studies indicating that it is an important stepping stone for language acquisition, particularly, the acquisition of combinatorial language.
Periodic Environmental Disturbance Drives Repeated Ecomorphological Diversification in an Adaptive Radiation of Antarctic Fishes
Authors: Parker Elyse , Zapfe Katerina L. , Yadav Jagriti , Frédérich Bruno , Jones Christopher D. , Economo Evan P. , Federman Sarah , Near Thomas J. , Dornburg Alex
Published: April 2022

The ecological theory of adaptive radiation has profoundly shaped our conceptualization of the rules that govern diversification. However, while many radiations follow classic early burst patterns of diversification as they fill ecological space, the longer-term fates of these radiations depend on many factors, such as climatic stability. In systems with periodic disturbances, species-rich clades can contain nested adaptive radiations of subclades with their own distinct diversification histories, and how adaptive radiation theory applies in these cases is less clear. Here, we investigated patterns of ecological and phenotypic diversification within two iterative adaptive radiations of cryonotothenioid fishes in Antarctica’s Southern Ocean: crocodile icefishes and notoperches. For both clades, we observe evidence of repeated diversification into disparate regions of trait space between closely related taxa and into overlapping regions of trait space between distantly related taxa. We additionally find little evidence that patterns of ecological divergence are correlated with evolution of morphological disparity, suggesting that these axes of divergence may not be tightly linked. Finally, we reveal evidence of repeated convergence in sympatry that suggests niche complementarity. These findings reflect the dynamic history of Antarctic marine habitats, and may guide hypotheses of diversification dynamics in environments characterized by periodic disturbance.
multiplestressR: An R package to analyse factorial multiple stressor data using the additive and multiplicative null models
Authors: Burgess Benjamin J. , Murrell David J.
Published: April 2022

Globally, ecosystems are being affected by multiple simultaneous stressors (also termed drivers, factors, or perturbations). While the effects of single stressors are becoming increasingly well understood, there remains substantial uncertainty regarding how multiple stressors may interact to affect ecosystems. Accordingly, there is substantial interest in documenting how stressors combine to impact individuals through to entire communities. Indeed, understanding how stressors interact represents one of the grand challenges currently facing ecologists and conservationists.

Popular methods used to classify stressor interactions comprise multiple steps, including complex mathematical equations. Accordingly, there is the potential for errors to occur at multiple points, any of which can result in erroneous conclusions being drawn. Furthermore, there are frequently minor methodological differences between studies which may limit, or even prevent, direct comparisons of their results from being made.

Here, we introduce the multiplestressR R package, a statistical tool which addresses the above issues. The package allows researchers to easily conduct a rigorous analysis of their multiple stressor data and provides results which are simple to interpret. The multiplestressR package can implement either the additive or multiplicative null model using iterations of these tools which are commonplace within multiple stressor ecology. The multiplestressR package can classify interactions as being synergistic, antagonistic, reversal, or null and requires minimal experience in either R or statistics to implement. Additionally, we provide example R code which can be easily modified to analysis any given factorial multiple stressor dataset. Indeed, widespread use of this software will allow for an easier and more robust comparison of results. Ultimately, we hope that the multiplestressR package will provide a stronger understanding of how stressors combine to affect individuals, populations, communities, and ecosystems.
Do sustainability committee characteristics affect CSR performance? Evidence from India
Authors: Jarboui Anis , Dammak Ben Hlima Nada , Bouaziz Dhouha
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the effect of sustainability committee (SC) characteristics (size, independence, the number of meetings, and expertise) on corporate social responsibility (CSR) performance in the Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

This research measures the CSR performance of 60 Indian non-financial firms listed on the Bombay Stock Exchange (BSE) over the period 2014 to 2019 using the ASSET4 environmental, social, and governance database. The authors resorted to fixed-effect panel regressions to capture the individual effect present in the data.

Findings

The results show that CSR performance is positively and significantly influenced by SC independence, size, and expertise. However, the number of SC meetings does not affect CSR performance. The results also demonstrate that CSR performance is positively and significantly associated with board independence.

Research limitations/implications

This paper adds to the existing literature by examining the effect of SC characteristics on the firms' CSR performance in India as one of the oldest stock markets in the world, which would help test the validity of the agency and stakeholder theories in an old and big emerging market context.

Practical implications

The findings allow managers to understand the mechanisms affecting CSR performance and how the characteristics of the SC can participate in its growth and development. Moreover, this study has implications for researchers, suggesting that future CSR studies should take into account the SC characteristics as potential determinants that explain CSR, such as CSR activities and CSR practices and strategies.

Originality/value

The present research contributes to the literature by investigating the effect of SC characteristics on the firms' CSR performance, thereby providing additional evidence on the issue. Several previous studies have examined the link between corporate governance and CSR performance with a focus on external oversight mechanisms, namely institutional ownership or analyst coverage or internal oversight mechanisms, such as board gender composition, board independence, separation of board Chairperson and CEO roles, and the existence of SC on the board, but these studies did not examine the SC characteristics. The present research fills the gap.
End of libraries/renaissance in the “peer-to-peer sharing economy” revolution age? Librarians of the future educating for a sustainable world
Authors: Hernandez-Carrion Jose Rodolfo
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Libraries face an uncertain situation in present times of the “digital revolution” while every single sector moved online. The purpose of this paper is to search and propose potential library actions as response to the challenge of the peer-to-peer (p2p) sharing platform revolution in business models, a revolution to gain efficiency and to protect the environment.

Design/methodology/approach

This research focused on integrating economics and library concepts based on a selective literature review and real-world interaction. The main concern is to connect library possibilities with the emergence of p2p digital platforms, which has enabled individuals to make use of underused inventory via fee-based sharing, as a way of obtaining, giving or sharing access to goods and services. The authors balance the existing proposals to achieve how librarians can help.

Findings

This paper defines key types of potential applications for platform business models in the sharing economy promoted by librarians and describes their characteristics for the renaissance of the “New libraries”. First, “educating” society to face critically the disruptive change in networks of culture and information. Second, “growing” as key reference institutions and community service centres integrating “external” skills. Third, “promoting” the disruptive economy by creation or participation in digital platforms. Fourth, “creating” cooperative markets through social-economic currencies.

Originality/value

This research was carried out with the objective of determining how librarians contribute to sustainable development. All four proposals to implement represent possibilities that derive from the sharing economy approach at different levels of implementation according to the degree of commitment that librarians require to translate into specific actions.
Pay to view answers: determinants of listeners' payment decisions on social Q&A platforms
Authors: Sun Jing , Li Qian , Xu Wei , Wang Mingming
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Paying to view others' answers is a new mode for question and answer (Q&A) platforms. The purpose is to build a model to explore the determinants of the number of listeners and further explore certain meaningful characteristics of the model in the context of different types of questions and answerers.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors develop an empirical model and use real panel data to test the hypothesis. Specifically, cues from the answerer and from the question elicit the listener's trust in the answerer (including direct and indirect trust) and perceived value in the question (including intrinsic and extrinsic attributes), respectively.

Findings

The authors find that cues from answerers (experience for paid Q&As and popularity for free Q&As) and questions (length, sentence structure, value and number of likes) all have positive effects on the number of listeners. The impact of answerer authentication is more significant than the popularity of free Q&As. Moreover, the length of the question matters only for subjective questions, while sentence structure matters only for objective questions. In addition, the answerer's own attributes and the behavior and feedback of others have greater impacts when the answerer is below average in popularity.

Originality/value

The authors summarize the unique features of the mode of paying to view others' answers in contrast with the traditional mode of paid Q&As. In addition, the authors focus on the characteristics of the question (including the subjectivity and the sentence structure of the question), a topic which has not been studied previously. Our research provides a reference for exploring user behavior patterns. The practical implications for knowledge platforms are also concretely described.