bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Streptococcus agalactiae pyomyositis in a patient with primary biliary cholangitis: A case report
Authors: Wang Yi‐Jie , Lin Chia‐Hua , Lu Chun‐Chi , Chen Hsiang‐Cheng , Yeh Fu‐Chiang
Published: February 2023

Pyomyositis is an uncommon clinical scenario; it is usually associated with predisposing factors, including poorly controlled diabetes mellitus, trauma history, and immunocompromise. We discuss the case of an elderly woman with a 20‐year history of diabetes mellitus and remissive breast cancer after modified radical mastectomy and subsequent chemotherapy 28 years previously. The patient presented with severe shoulder pain and gradual swelling. After examination, pyomyositis was diagnosed and debridement surgery was performed. Culture of the wound samples showed the growth of Streptococcus agalactiae. During hospitalization, primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) was diagnosed incidentally, accompanied by poor glycemic control. After treatment with antibiotics for pyomyositis and ursodeoxycholic acid for PBC, the infection resolved in 8 weeks, and her glycemic control was improved after PBC treatment. It is possible that the long‐term untreated PBC worsened insulin resistance and aggravated diabetes mellitus in this patient. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first reported case of pyomyositis caused by an unusual pathogen, S. agalactiae, in a patient with newly diagnosed PBC.
The association of lowered alcohol prices with birth outcomes and abortions: A population‐based natural experiment
Authors: Luukkonen Juha , Junna Liina , Remes Hanna , Martikainen Pekka
Published: February 2023

Background and Aims

Alcohol use during pregnancy remains an important risk factor for adverse birth outcomes, but little is known regarding how alcohol prices affect pregnancy outcomes on the population level. We assess the associations between decreased alcohol prices with birth outcomes and abortions.

Design

Using national registers, we used interrupted time‐series modelling to compare outcomes of pregnancies conceived before and after a tax cut, resulting in 33% mean decrease of off‐premise alcohol prices on 1 March 2004. We also addressed possible heterogeneity of the associations by maternal age and household income.

Setting

Finland.

Participants

All registered pregnancies starting 2 years before and 1 year after the alcohol price cut (analysis sample consisted of 169 735 live births and 32 441 abortions).

Measurements

The outcomes were birth weight, gestational age, the probability of low birth weight (< 2500 g at birth), preterm birth (< 37 weeks of gestation), any congenital malformations and share of registered abortions of pregnancies.

Findings

On the population level, lowered alcohol prices were associated with an increase in abortions immediately after the price cut [+0.84 percentage points; 95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.2, 1.4]. For birth outcomes, negative associations were observed among women in the lowest income quintile; for example, increased probabilities of low birth weight (+1.5 percentage points; 95% CI = 0.4, 2.6) and preterm birth (+1.98 percentage points; 95% CI = 0.8, 3.2). All changes were strongest immediately after the price cut and attenuated during the course of the following year.

Conclusions

Lowered alcohol prices in Finland were associated with a short‐term increase in adverse birth outcomes among low‐income mothers and an overall increase in abortions.
Repurposing ketamine to treat cocaine use disorder: integration of artificial intelligence‐based prediction, expert evaluation, clinical corroboration and mechanism of action analyses
Authors: Gao Zhenxiang , Winhusen T. John , Gorenflo Maria , Ghitza Udi E. , Davis Pamela B. , Kaelber David C. , Xu Rong
Published: February 2023

Background and aims

Cocaine use disorder (CUD) is a significant public health issue for which there is no Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved medication. Drug repurposing looks for new cost‐effective uses of approved drugs. This study presents an integrated strategy to identify repurposed FDA‐approved drugs for CUD treatment.

Design

Our drug repurposing strategy combines artificial intelligence (AI)‐based drug prediction, expert panel review, clinical corroboration and mechanisms of action analysis being implemented in the National Drug Abuse Treatment Clinical Trials Network (CTN). Based on AI‐based prediction and expert knowledge, ketamine was ranked as the top candidate for clinical corroboration via electronic health record (EHR) evaluation of CUD patient cohorts prescribed ketamine for anesthesia or depression compared with matched controls who received non‐ketamine anesthesia or antidepressants/midazolam. Genetic and pathway enrichment analyses were performed to understand ketamine’s potential mechanisms of action in the context of CUD.

Setting

The study utilized TriNetX to access EHRs from more than 90 million patients world‐wide. Genetic‐ and functional‐level analyses used DisGeNet, Search Tool for Interactions of Chemicals and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes databases.

Participants

A total of 7742 CUD patients who received anesthesia (3871 ketamine‐exposed and 3871 anesthetic‐controlled) and 7910 CUD patients with depression (3955 ketamine‐exposed and 3955 antidepressant‐controlled) were identified after propensity score‐matching.

Measurements

EHR analysis outcome was a CUD remission diagnosis within 1 year of drug prescription.

Findings

Patients with CUD prescribed ketamine for anesthesia displayed a significantly higher rate of CUD remission compared with matched individuals prescribed other anesthetics [hazard ratio (HR) = 1.98, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.42–2.78]. Similarly, CUD patients prescribed ketamine for depression evidenced a significantly higher CUD remission ratio compared with matched patients prescribed antidepressants or midazolam (HR = 4.39, 95% CI = 2.89–6.68). The mechanism of action analysis revealed that ketamine directly targets multiple CUD‐associated genes (BDNF, CNR1, DRD2, GABRA2, GABRB3, GAD1, OPRK1, OPRM1, SLC6A3, SLC6A4) and pathways implicated in neuroactive ligand‐receptor interaction, cAMP signaling and cocaine abuse/dependence.

Conclusions

Ketamine appears to be a potential repurposed drug for treatment of cocaine use disorder.
Radiographic analysis of skull in Van Cats, British Shorthairs and Scottish Folds
Authors: Gundemir Ozan , Akcasiz Zeynep Nilufer , Yilmaz Osman , Hadžiomerović Nedžad
Published: February 2023

The most significant bone used in taxonomic research is the skull. This study attempted to identify differences between the three cat species by measuring the skulls of each using computed tomography sections. The study used a total of 32 cat skulls, including 16 Van Cats, eight British Shorthairs and eight Scottish Folds. Van Cat had the highest values for cranial and skull length, whereas British Shorthair had the lowest values. The difference between the British Shorthair and Scottish Fold skull length and cranial length measures was not statistically significant. However, the Van Cat skull length result was statistically different from other species (p < 0.05). Scottish Fold had the broadest head (cranial width: 41.02 ± 0.79 mm). These results demonstrated that the scull of the Van Cat was longer but thinner than that of other species. In comparison to other species, the form of the Scottish Fold skull was more rounded. Internal height of cranium measurements for Van Cat and British Shorthair were statistically significant. In Van Cats, this measurement was 27.81 ± 1.58 mm, while in British Shorthairs, it was 30.23 ± 1.89 mm. Measurements of the foremen magnum were not statistically significant for any species. Van Cat's measures for the foramen magnum were the highest (Foramen magnum height: 11.59 ± 0.93 mm; Foramen magnum width: 14.18 ± 0.70 mm). Scottish Fold had the highest cranial index (Cranial index: 55.50 ± 4.02). Van Cat had the lowest value for this (Cranial index: 50.19 ± 2.16). Van Cat's cranial index value differed statistically from that of other species (p < 0.05). Between species, the foramen magnum index was not significant. None of the index values were statistically significant for Scottish Fold and British Shorthair. Foramen magnum width had the highest age‐to‐measurement value correlation (r = 0.310), although it was statistically insignificant. Skull length had the highest weight‐to‐measurement value correlations (R = 0.809), and it proved to be statistically significant. Skull length was the measuring value that distinguished male and female the most clearly (p = 0.000).
Iodine‐125 seed versus hook‐wire guided breast conserving surgery: do post operative complication rates differ?
Authors: Ooi Wei Ling , Becker Brenno , Phillips Michael , Saunders Christobel , Taylor Donna
Published: February 2023

Background

Radio‐guided occult lesion localisation using iodine 125 seeds (ROLLIS) is used to localize impalpable breast cancers for breast conserving surgery (BCS). Previous studies have suggested improved efficiency and patient outcomes with ROLLIS compared with hook‐wire localisation (HWL). The aim of this report is to compare the post‐operative complication rates and safety profiles of ROLLIS versus hook‐wire guided surgery.

Methods

Between September 2013 and March 2018, 690 women with non‐palpable breast cancer eligible for breast‐conserving surgery were randomly assigned to either pre‐operative localisation with 125 I seed or hook‐wire as part of the ROLLIS clinical trial. Medical record review of 170 women (30% of the total participants) from three tertiary hospitals in Western Australia was performed. Post‐operative complications were classified using the Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events(CTCAE) grade I to V.

Results

Total of 170 surgeries were performed: 82 by ROLLIS and 88 by hook‐wire. The overall complication rate in the ROLLIS group was 19.5%, with 15.9% being grade II and 3.66% grade III. In the HWL group, the complication rate was 22.7% with 20.5% being grade II and 2.27% grade III. There was no statistically significant difference in complication grades between the 2 groups. No grade IV or grade V complications were reported. Complications observed included drainable seroma, drainable haematoma and surgical site infection.

Conclusion

ROLLIS is a safe method of localisation for surgical resection with similar complication rates as hookwires. We encourage its use as an alternative localisation technique as it has demonstrable superiority and efficacy.
Probing mechanisms and improving management of glaucoma following Boston keratoprosthesis surgery
Authors: Geoffrion Dominique , Koenekoop Robert K. , Harissi‐Dagher Mona
Published: February 2023

Corneal blindness is a leading cause of visual impairment worldwide. The most common treatment is to replace the diseased cornea with standard corneal transplantation. In eyes at high risk of graft failure, the Boston keratoprosthesis type 1 (KPro) can be used to restore vision and is currently the most frequently used artificial cornea in the world. However, glaucoma is a well‐known complication of KPro surgery and is the most important threat to vision in KPro‐implanted eyes. This chronic disease is influenced by elevated intraocular pressure (IOP) and damages the optic nerve, leading to progressive vision loss. In KPro patients, glaucoma is highly prevalent and extremely challenging to manage, yet its exact cause remains unknown.
Hiking trailheads, but not trailsides, associated with higher cover of non‐native plants’ trail impact on non‐native plant cover
Authors: Aziz Naeem , Holmes Marion A. , Bennion Leland D. , Reeb Rachel A. , Kuebbing Sara E.
Published: February 2023

Question

Natural areas are commonly managed for multiple purposes, including both conservation and recreational use. Hiking trails are an extremely common feature in natural areas that enable recreational use, but trail construction and use can also facilitate the spread of non‐native species by altering trailside conditions, creating disturbances, and acting as a conduit for non‐native propagules to be carried into the backcountry.

Location

Powdermill Nature Reserve, Southwestern Pennsylvania, USA.

Methods

We tested how distance from trailhead and trailside affected the understory plant cover and abundance and light and soil environment by establishing study plots at varying distances from the trailhead along perpendicular transects from the trailside.

Results

We found that non‐native plant cover decreased with distance from the trailhead, with the majority occurring within 1 km of the trailhead, while non‐native cover increased by as much as 12% moving away from the trailside and toward the forest interior. Total species richness and diversity decreased with increasing distance from the trailhead and per‐species mean cover increased. Total cover decreased in plots with higher light levels.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that hiking trails could be acting as a conduit for the spread of non‐native plants, with the greatest effect occurring near the trailhead where early detection and future management efforts could be concentrated. The measurable increase in non‐native cover moving away from the trailside is potentially a result of trails being constructed in an already‐invaded forest, with the effects of trail construction or active management reducing non‐native cover at the immediate trailside.
Born in the UK: A registry to improve and broadcast knowledge on Waldenström macroglobulinaemia
Authors: Durot Eric , Delmer Alain
Published: February 2023

Registries constitute an interesting source of real‐world data and bring complementary information to randomised controlled trials. They are of particular importance in rare diseases such as Waldenström macroglobulinaemia (WM), which can present with various clinical and biological features. In their paper Uppal and colleagues describe the development of the Rory Morrison Registry, the UK registry for WM and IgM‐related disorders and highlight the profound changes in therapies both at first‐line and relapsed settings in the recent years.

Commentary on: Uppal E. et al. The WMUK Rory Morrison Registry for Waldenström Macroglobulinaemia: the growth of a national registry for a rare disorder. Br J Haematol. 2023;201:905‐912.
The effects of temperature on prosocial and antisocial behaviour: A review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lynott Dermot , Corker Katherine , Connell Louise , O'Brien Kerry
Published: February 2023

Research from the social sciences suggests an association between higher temperatures and increases in antisocial behaviours, including aggressive, violent, or sabotaging behaviours, and represents a heat‐facilitates‐aggression perspective. More recently, studies have shown that higher temperature experiences may also be linked to increases in prosocial behaviours, such as altruistic, sharing, or cooperative behaviours, representing a warmth‐primes‐prosociality view. However, across both literatures, there have been inconsistent findings and failures to replicate key theoretical predictions, leaving the status of temperature‐behaviour links unclear. Here we review the literature and conduct meta‐analyses of available empirical studies that have either prosocial (e.g., monetary reward, gift giving, helping behaviour) or antisocial (self‐rewarding, retaliation, sabotaging behaviour) behavioural outcome variables, with temperature as an independent variable. In an omnibus multivariate analysis (total N = 4577) with 80 effect sizes, we found that there was no reliable effect of temperature on the behavioural outcome measured. Further, we find little support for either the warmth‐primes‐prosociality view or the heat‐facilitates‐aggression view. There were no reliable effects if we consider separately the type of behavioural outcome (prosocial or antisocial), different types of temperature experience (haptic or ambient), or potential interactions with the experimental social context (positive, neutral, or negative). We discuss how these findings affect the status of existing theoretical perspectives and provide specific suggestions advancing research in this area.
Training self‐other distinction facilitates perspective taking in young children
Authors: Kampis Dora , Lukowski Duplessy Helle , Askitis Dimitrios , Southgate Victoria
Published: February 2023

People sometimes commit ‘egocentric errors’, failing to ignore their own perspective when interpreting others' communication. Training imitation‐inhibition, when participants perform the opposite action from another person, facilitates subsequent perspective‐taking in adults. This study tested whether imitation‐inhibition training also facilitates perspective‐taking in 3‐ to 6‐year‐olds, an age where egocentric perspective may be particularly influential. Children participated in a 10‐min imitation‐inhibition, imitation, or non‐social‐inhibition training (white, n = 25 per condition, 33 female, period: 2018–2021), then the communicative‐perspective‐taking Director task. Training had a significant effect (F(2, 71) = 3.316, p = .042, η2 = .085): on critical trials, the imitation‐inhibition‐group selected the correct object more often than the other groups. Imitation‐inhibition training specifically enhanced the perspective‐taking process possibly by highlighting the distinction between self and other.
Large carnivore encounters through the lens of mobile videos on social media
Authors: Gao Yufang , Lee Andy T. L. , Luo Yu , Alexander Justine Shanti , Shi Xiangying , Sangpo Tashi , Clark Susan G.
Published: February 2023

Understanding local encounters with large carnivores is important for promoting sustainable coexistence. The use of smartphones and social media in geographically remote areas offers a novel avenue to study human–wildlife encounters from a local perspective. We conducted a content analysis of mobile videos on social media (n = 207) to characterize human encounters with snow leopards, gray wolves, and brown bears on the Tibetan Plateau in China. We also used ethnographic interviews to understand the backgrounds and motivations of videographers. Results show large carnivore encounters are not necessarily conflictual. Over half of encounters are neutral without observable interference between people and predators. The likelihood of a “negative encounter” is significantly associated with the target species, the distance between the videographer and the animal, the level of human influence in the surroundings, and the presence of other animals (i.e., dogs and livestock). Local Tibetan herders document unusual encounters with carnivores using videos for various reasons, but what is deemed unusual is context‐dependent and fluid. Our study demonstrates that social media videos can provide valuable insights into the diversity and complexity of human–wildlife interactions. We encourage conservationists to develop visual participatory programs to better engage local people in conservation knowledge production.
Basiliximab induction versus no induction in adult heart transplantation
Authors: Rudzik Katelyn N. , Rivosecchi Ryan M. , Palmer Brittany A. , Hickey Gavin W. , Huston Jessica H. , Keebler Mary E. , Kaczorowski David J. , Horn Edward T.
Published: February 2023

Background

Induction immunosuppression in heart transplant recipients varies greatly by center. Basiliximab (BAS) is the most commonly used induction immunosuppressant but has not been shown to reduce rejection or improve survival. The objective of this retrospective study was to compare rejection, infection, and mortality within the first 12 months following heart transplant in patients who received BAS or no induction.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of adult heart transplant recipients given BAS or no induction from January 1, 2017 to May 31, 2021. The primary endpoint was incidence of treated acute cellular rejection (ACR) at 12‐months post‐transplant. Secondary endpoints included ACR at 90 days post‐transplant, incidence of antibody‐mediated rejection (AMR) at 90 days and 1 year, incidence of infection, and all‐cause mortality at 1 year.

Results

A total of 108 patients received BAS, and 26 patients received no induction within the specified timeframe. There was a lower incidence of ACR within the first year in the BAS group compared to the no induction group (27.7 vs. 68.2%, p < .002). BAS was independently associated with a lower probability of having a rejection event during the first 12‐months post‐transplant (hazard ratio (HR) .285, 95% confidence interval [CI] .142–.571, p < .001). There was no difference in the rate of infection and in mortality after hospital discharge at 1‐year post‐transplant (6% vs. 0%, p = .20).

Conclusion

BAS appears to be associated with greater freedom from rejection without an increase in infections. BAS may be a preferred to a no induction strategy in patients undergoing heart transplantation.
The impact of place‐based policies on interpersonal income inequality
Authors: Albanese Giuseppe , Barone Guglielmo , de Blasio Guido
Published: February 2023

This paper assesses the causal impact of the European Union (EU) cohesion policy, aimed at reducing the regional divide within the EU, on interpersonal income inequality in receiving areas. We leverage a severe contraction of financing, which took place in an Italian region in 2007, and adopt a difference‐in‐discontinuity empirical design to show that the Gini index (of income) at the municipality level goes down because of the end of the policy. The improvement is due to the move of top earners towards the centre of the distribution. The reduction in the Gini indicator is confirmed even if we resort to a region‐level analysis. Our results suggest that from a policy perspective, reducing spatial inequality might come with the cost of worsening inequality across individuals.
Four‐point flexural strength and microtensile bond strength of digitally and conventionally veneered zirconia
Authors: Utar M. , Demirtağ Z.
Published: February 2023

This study intended to evaluate the effect of digital veneering on four‐point flexural strength (FS) and microtensile bond strength (μTBS) of veneered zirconia. Two different zirconia blocks, a lithium disilicate and a feldspathic ceramic block, and two different layering ceramics were used. IPS e.max Zir CAD (ZC) and Vita In‐Ceram YZ (YZ) with yttria stabilized tetragonal zirconia polycrystals (3Y‐TZP) were used as substructures. IPS e.max CAD (LD), Vita Mark II (VMII), IPS e.max Ceram (EC) and Vita VM9 (VM9) were used for veneering. Resin cement and fusion ceramic were placed between veneer and zirconia substructure for digital veneering. A total of one hundred and fifty specimens in five groups (n = 30) were prepared for FS and tested in universal machine at 1.0 mm/min. One hundred specimens in five groups (n = 20) were obtained for the μTBS and tested at 1.0 mm/min. Statistical analysis was made by one way ANOVA and Tukey HSD. Conventional veneering showed statistically significant FS. ZC veneered with EC had the highest mean FS and the lowest was obtained in groups veneered through resin cement. YZ layered with VM9 had the highest mean μTBS. ZC veneered through fusion ceramic and YZ veneered through resin cement showed significantly lower and similar μTBS.
Ketamine as advanced second‐line treatment in benzodiazepine‐refractory convulsive status epilepticus in children
Authors: Buratti Silvia , Giacheri Emanuele , Palmieri Antonella , Tibaldi Jessica , Brisca Giacomo , Riva Antonella , Striano Pasquale , Mancardi Maria Margherita , Nobili Lino , Moscatelli Andrea
Published: February 2023

Status epilepticus (SE) is one of the most common neurological emergencies in children. To date, there is no definitive evidence to guide treatment of SE refractory to benzodiazepines. The main objectives of treatment protocols are to expedite therapeutic decisions and to use fast‐ and short‐acting medications without significant adverse effects. Protocols differ among institutions, and most frequently valproate, phenytoin, and levetiracetam are used as second‐line treatment. After failure of first‐ and second‐line medications, admission to the intensive care unit and continuous infusion of anesthetics are usually indicated. Ketamine is a noncompetitive N‐methyl‐D‐aspartate receptor antagonist that has been safely used for the treatment of refractory SE in adults and children. In animal models of SE, ketamine demonstrated antiepileptic and neuroprotective properties and synergistic effects with other antiseizure medications. We reviewed the literature to demonstrate the potential role of ketamine as an advanced second‐line agent in the treatment of SE. Pharmacological targets, pathophysiology of SE, and the receptor trafficking hypothesis are reviewed and presented. The pharmacology of ketamine is outlined with related properties, advantages, and side effects. We summarize the most recent and relevant publications on experimental and clinical studies on ketamine in SE. Key expert opinion is also reported. Considering the current knowledge on SE pathophysiology, early sequential polytherapy should include ketamine for its wide range of positive assets. Future research and clinical trials on SE pharmacotherapy should focus on the role of ketamine as second‐line medication.
First records of Graphocephala fennahi Young, 1977 and Pochazia shantungensis (Chou & Lu, 1977) (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae, Ricaniidae) in Russia
Authors: Zhuravleva Elena N. , Gnezdilov Vladimir M. , Tishechkin Dmitri Yu. , Mikhailenko Andrey P. , Shoshina Elena I. , Karpun Natalia N. , Musolin Dmitrii L.
Published: February 2023

Graphocephala fennahi Young, 1977 (Cicadellidae) was observed for the first time in Russia in 2018 in Moscow City on hedge bindweed, Calystegia sepium (Convolvulaceae) and Rhododendron spp. (Ericaceae). A small population of Pochazia shantungensis (Chou & Lu, 1977) (Ricaniidae) was recorded for the first time in Russia in 2022 in Sochi City, Krasnodar Territory, on the broad‐leaf privet, Ligustrum lucidum (Oleaceae). It is likely that both species of insects were accidentally introduced with ornamental plants for planting. In total, alien Auchenorrhyncha species in Russia now comprise six species, two of which are of Asian origin (Orosanga japonica and P. shantungensis; both Ricaniidae) and four are of Nearctic origin (Stictocephala bisonia [Membracidae], Metcalfa pruinosa [Flatidae], Scaphoideus titanus and G. fennahi [both Cicadellidae]).
Taking the normative foundations of EU criminal law seriously: The legal duty of the EU to criminalise failure to rescue at sea
Authors: Guild Elspeth , Mitsilegas Valsamis
Published: February 2023

This contribution argues in favour of the use of Article 83(2) TFEU to adopt a Directive criminalising failure of rescue at sea. We explain how and why the EU's legal duty to comply with its obligations under Article 98 of the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea ought to translate into the adoption of a Directive requiring Member States to criminalise all action contrary to Article 98 UNCLOS on the basis of Article 83(2) TFEU. The criminalisation of failure to rescue at sea would not only allow for the EU to abide by the fundamental legal rules that shape its order but also be consistent with the two rationales that have guided European integration so far: a functional rationale, whereby the Union has competence to adopt criminal offences and impose criminal sanctions where approximation proves essential to ensuring the effective implementation of a Union policy in an area which has been subject to harmonisation measures, and a constitutional rationale, according to which criminal law is key to ensuring respect for EU common values and fundamental rights.
Relational concerns and change in relationship satisfaction in a relationship education program
Authors: Kanter Jeremy B. , Lannin Daniel G. , Rauer Amy J. , Yazedjian Ani
Published: February 2023

Lower income couples tend to report more difficulty sustaining high‐quality intimate relationships. As a result, policy initiatives have been enacted to fund relationship education (RE) programs that aim to increase lower income couples' relationship satisfaction. Generally, these programs demonstrate small, albeit statistically significant improvements in mean levels of relationship functioning. It is critical, however, to understand if RE programming influences the developmental course of intimate relationships, and if this influence depends on couples' initial levels of concerns about their relationships. Using dyadic group‐based modeling and three waves of data from 6034 couples in the Supporting Healthy Marriages project, a randomized control trial of RE, we categorized couples into four relationship concern groups (No Relational Concerns, Both Relationally Concerned, Men's Relational Concerns, and Women's Relational Concerns) and explored how these groups moderated the long‐term efficacy of RE programming. Results indicated that RE was associated with different developmental trajectories of satisfaction, but RE effects differed for men and women. Specifically, random assignment into RE was associated with men maintaining high levels of relationship satisfaction, whereas women's satisfaction decreased over time. These effects were not moderated by initial relationship concerns. The association between RE and relationship satisfaction trajectories was small in magnitude, suggesting that more comprehensive services are needed to strengthen lower income couples' intimate relationships.
Changes in migraine interictal burden following treatment with galcanezumab: Results from a phase III randomized, placebo‐controlled study
Authors: Lipton Richard B. , Buse Dawn C. , Sandoe Claire H. , Ford Janet H. , Hand Austin L. , Jedynak Jakub P. , Port Martha D. , Detke Holland C.
Published: February 2023

Objective

To evaluate changes in interictal burden with galcanezumab versus placebo in patients with episodic (EM) or chronic migraine (CM).

Background

The disruptive effects of migraine occur both during attacks (ictal period) and between attacks (interictal period), affecting work, school, family, and social life. Migraine clinical trials typically assess ictal burden endpoints, neglecting interictal burden.

Methods

CONQUER was a 3‐month, double‐blind study that randomized adult patients with EM or CM who had experienced failure of two to four standard‐of‐care migraine preventive medication categories to receive monthly galcanezumab (n = 232) or placebo (n = 230), followed by 3 months of open‐label galcanezumab. The mean change in interictal burden, a secondary objective, was measured using the four‐item Migraine Interictal Burden Scale (MIBS‐4). The total score for MIBS‐4 can range from zero to 12, with scores ≥5 indicating severe interictal burden. Post hoc analyses evaluated shifts in MIBS‐4 severity categories and item‐level improvement.

Results

The MIBS‐4 total score indicated severe interictal burden at baseline (mean [SD]: all patients, 5.5 [3.5]; EM, 5.0 [3.4]; CM, 6.2 [3.5]). Reductions in the MIBS‐4 score were significantly greater with galcanezumab versus placebo at Month 3 (mean [SE]: all patients −1.9 [0.2] vs. −0.8 [0.2], p < 0.0001; EM, −1.8 [0.3] vs. −1.1 [0.3], p = 0.033; CM, −1.8 [0.4] vs. −0.3 [0.4], p < 0.001), with further improvement at Month 6 after all patients had received galcanezumab (mean [SE]: all patients, −2.4 [0.2] vs. −2.0 [0.2]; EM, −2.3 [0.3] vs. −2.2 [0.3]; CM, −2.1 [0.4] vs. −1.5 [0.4]). The percentage of patients with severe interictal burden decreased substantially for the galcanezumab‐treated patients, from 59% (137/232) at baseline to 27% (58/217) at Month 6 (EM from 51% [70/137] to 23% [30/131]; CM from 71% [67/95] to 33% [28/86]).

Conclusion

In addition to the known efficacy of galcanezumab in the ictal period, these findings suggest treatment with galcanezumab results in a significant reduction in interictal burden.
Crystal structure and magneto‐dielectric properties of Co‐Zr co‐substituted Co2Z hexaferrites
Authors: Huo Xingyu , Su Hua , Zhang Qin , Huang Fangyi , Wu Xiaohui , Li Yuanxun , Jian Xian , Jing Yulan
Published: February 2023

A series of Ba1.5Sr1.5Co2+xZrxFe24‐2xO41 hexaferrites (x = 0.00, 0.01, 0.03, 0.05, 0.07, and 0.09) were successfully prepared by the conventional solid‐state reaction method. It was found that as the Co2+ and Zr4+ ions entered the hexaferrite structure, the lattice parameters increased, whereas the relative density increased when x = 0.00‐0.03 and then decreased. A suitable amount of substitution increased the DC resistivity, reduced the magnetic and dielectric losses, and made the and closer to each other. At x = 0.03, the relative density and DC resistivity of the samples reached their maxim. Besides, both the magnetic and dielectric losses were lowest within the frequency range of 10 MHz‐1 GHz. Meanwhile, the hexaferrite was impedance matched to free space, and the miniaturization factor was about 15. Therefore, this low‐loss ferrite with almost equal permeability and permittivity could be meaningful for antenna miniaturization and high‐frequency applications.
Student diversity and e‐exam acceptance in higher education
Authors: Froehlich Laura , Sassenberg Kai , Jonkmann Kathrin , Scheiter Katharina , Stürmer Stefan
Published: February 2023

Background

The use of e‐exams in higher education is increasing. However, the role of student diversity in the acceptance of e‐exams is an under‐researched topic. In the current study, we considered student diversity in terms of three sociodemographic characteristics (age, gender, and second language) and three dispositional student characteristics (computer anxiety, test anxiety, and technology openness).

Objectives

The main objective of this study was to investigate the relationship between student diversity and acceptance of e‐exams.

Methods

Our research combined cross‐sectional analyses (N = 1639) with data from a natural experiment on the introduction of e‐exams versus the established paper‐pencil exams (N = 626) and used both self‐report and institutional data. Sociodemographic and dispositional characteristics were indirectly related to pre‐exam acceptance via expectancy variables from the Technology Acceptance Model framework.

Results and Conclusions

Comparisons of post‐exam acceptance showed that practical experience with the e‐exam led to a significant increase in e‐exam acceptance, and that students with low openness toward technology particularly benefited from this effect. Students' exam performance (i.e., grades) was unrelated to the exam format or their pre‐exam acceptance of the e‐exam format, and this was true across students' sociodemographic and dispositional characteristics.

Takeaway

Student diversity plays a role in e‐exam acceptance, but its influence is mitigated by first‐hand experience with e‐exams. The practical implications for higher education institutions aiming to implement e‐exams are discussed.
Feeding ecology of redfish (Sebastes sp.) inferred from the integrated use of fatty acid profiles as complementary dietary tracers to stomach content analysis
Authors: Brown‐Vuillemin Sarah , Tremblay Réjean , Chabot Denis , Sirois Pascal , Robert Dominique
Published: February 2023

In the northern Gulf of St. Lawrence (nGSL), redfish (Sebastes mentella and Sebastes fasciatus combined) are at record levels of abundance following the strong recruitment of three consecutive cohorts in 2011–2013 and have become by far the most abundant demersal fish in the region. Understanding redfish trophic relationships is essential for the effective management and conservation of species in the nGSL ecosystem. To date, description and quantification of redfish diet in the region have been restricted to conventional stomach content analysis (SCA). Using analysis of fatty acid (FA) profiles as complementary dietary tracers, the authors conducted multivariate analyses on 350 livers of redfish which were collected in combination with stomach contents during a bottom‐trawl scientific survey in August 2017. The predator FA profiles were compared to those of eight different redfish prey types identified as dietary important with SCA. Results suggested similitude between SCA and FA results, with zooplankton prey being more related to small (<20 cm) and medium (20–30 cm) redfish (16:1n7, 20:1n?, 22:1n9 and 20:5n3) than large (≥30 cm) ones, whereas shrimp prey seemed more related to large redfish size classes (18:2n6 and 22:6n3) relative to the small and medium ones. Although the SCA offers a glimpse in the diet only based on the most recently consumed prey, analysis of FA profiles provides a mid‐term view indicating pelagic zooplankton consumption on calanoid copepod and confirming high predation pressure on shrimp. This study constitutes the first attempt of combining FA with SCA to assess the diet of redfish, highlights the benefits of FA as a qualitative tool and suggests improvements for future studies.
Nutritional practices and dietetic provision in the endometriosis population, with a focus on functional gut symptoms
Authors: Deepak Kumar Komal , Appleby‐Gunnill Bridie , Maslin Kate
Published: February 2023

Background

Endometriosis is a common condition causing chronic pain, fatigue and gut symptoms. Research suggests that dietary changes may improve symptoms; however, evidence is lacking. The present study aimed to investigate the nutritional practices and needs of individuals with endometriosis (IWE) and the management of endometriosis by dietitians in the UK, focusing on gut symptoms.

Methods

Two online questionnaires were distributed via social media: a survey of dietitians working with IWE and functional gut symptoms and a survey of IWE.

Results

All respondents to the dietitian survey (n = 21) used the low fermentable oligosaccharides disaccharides monosaccharides and polyols (FODMAP) diet in IWE, with the majority 69.3% (n = 14), reporting positive adherence and patient benefit. Dietitians recommended more training (85.7%, n = 18) and resources (81%, n = 17) for IWE. Of those who completed the IWE questionnaire (n = 1385), 38.5% (n = 533) had coexisting irritable bowel syndrome. Only 24.1% (n = 330) had satisfactory relief of gut symptoms. The most common symptoms were tiredness, bloating and abdominal pain, experienced by 85.5% (n = 1163), 75.3% (n = 1025) and 67.3% (n = 917), respectively. Some 52.2% (n = 723) had tried dietary modifications to relieve their gut symptoms; 36.7% (n = 500) ate a restricted diet at present; 13.5% (n = 184) experienced recent unintentional weight loss and 29.8% (n = 407) a decreased appetite Some 13.2% (n = 183) had seen a dietitian regarding their gut symptoms. Of those who had not seen a dietitian, 57.7% (n = 693) would find it useful to.

Conclusions

Gut symptoms and dietary restriction are very common in IWE; however, dietetic input is not. More research on the role of nutrition and dietetics in the management of endometriosis is recommended.
Equipping nutrition graduates for the complex realities of practice: Using practitioner perspectives and experiences to inform authentic sustainability curriculum
Authors: Maher Judith , Ashford Theresa , Verdonck Michèle , English Elizabeth , Burkhart Sarah
Published: February 2023

Background

Nutrition professionals function at the nexus of food, nutrition status and the myriad of determinants influencing these. However, defining our role in food system transformation requires a multifaceted and deep understanding of sustainability in the context of nutrition and dietetics (N&D). Practitioner perspectives and experiences provide a rich source of practice wisdom that can inform authentic curriculum to equip students for the complex realities of practice; however, there is limited understanding of these in the Australian higher education setting.

Methods

Qualitative methodology using semistructured interviews with 10 Australian N&D professionals. Thematic analysis was used to understand how they perceive opportunities and barriers for integrating sustainability into practice.

Results

Practitioners' experience in sustainability practice varied. Themes were identified in two categories: opportunities and barriers. Themes that reflected future practice opportunities included “Preparing the workforce” (for academics and practitioners interfacing with students), “Practical individual level work” and “System level and policy interests”. Themes that were considered barriers to integrating sustainability in practice included “lack of contextual evidence” and “complexity and competing priorities”.

Conclusions

Our findings make a novel contribution to the current literature as we recognise practitioners as a source of experience anticipating where sustainability and nutrition practice intersect. Our work provides practice‐informed content and context that may assist educators to create authentic sustainability‐focused curriculum and assessment to replicate the complexity of practice.
Investor visits to corporate sites and cost stickiness
Authors: Yao Wenyun , Xu Hanwen , Fan Yuling , Xu Zefeng
Published: February 2023

A corporate site visit is an effective way to obtain information on a firm. Most studies focus on the information advantages of corporate site visits, but evidence of their impact on firm operations is limited. In this paper, we investigate whether investors’ corporate site visits affect cost stickiness. Using data on investor corporate site visits to Chinese listed firms from 2013 to 2018, we find that these visits can inhibit cost stickiness. This finding holds in robustness tests and when controlling for endogeneity, including firm fixed effects, and using the Heckman selection model and the instrumental variables method. Further analyses reveal this inhibition is more pronounced for nonstate‐owned enterprises and the results are more significant regarding cost stickiness in firms consuming nonlabor materials and firms visited by institutional investors. Moreover, we explore plausible mechanisms through which corporate site visits inhibit cost stickiness, such as through a monitoring channel and a learning channel. Our study contributes to academic evidence on the benefit and value of corporate site visits to firm operations, showing these visits can be a useful way to build connections between investors and firms.
Intramuscular aponeuroses and fiber bundle morphology of the five bellies of flexor digitorum superficialis: A three‐dimensional modeling study
Authors: Campisi Emma Stefanie , Johnston Mai‐Lan , Kelly Ellis Caitlin , Tran John , Switzer‐McIntyre Sharon , Agur Anne Maria Reet
Published: February 2023

Restoring balanced function of the five bellies of flexor digitorum superficialis (FDS) following injury requires knowledge of the muscle architecture and the arrangement of the contractile and connective tissue elements. No three‐dimensional (3D) studies of FDS architecture were found in the literature. The purpose was to (1) digitize/model in 3D the contractile/connective tissue elements of FDS, (2) quantify/compare architectural parameters of the bellies and (3) assess functional implications. The fiber bundles (FBs)/aponeuroses of the bellies of FDS were dissected and digitized (MicroScribe® Digitizer) in 10 embalmed specimens. Data were used to construct 3D models of FDS to determine/compare the morphology of each digital belly and quantify architectural parameters to assess functional implications. FDS consists of five morphologically and architecturally distinct bellies, a proximal belly, and four digital bellies. FBs of each belly have unique attachment sites to one or more of the three aponeuroses (proximal/distal/median). The proximal belly is connected through the median aponeurosis to the bellies of the second and fifth digits. The third belly exhibited the longest mean FB length (72.84 ± 16.26 mm) and the proximal belly the shortest (30.49 ± 6.45 mm). The third belly also had the greatest mean physiological cross‐sectional area, followed by proximal/second/fourth/fifth. Each belly was found to have distinct excursion and force‐generating capabilities based on their 3D morphology and architectural parameters. Results of this study provide the basis for the development of in vivo ultrasound protocols to study activation patterns of FDS during functional activities in normal and pathologic states.
Factors associated with burnout among hospital‐based healthcare workers during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional CRACoV‐HHS study
Authors: Szczerbińska Katarzyna , Barańska Ilona , Kijowska Violetta , Stodolska Agata , Wójcik Grzegorz , Różańska Anna , Wójkowska‐Mach Jadwiga
Published: February 2023

Aims

To assess the prevalence of burnout and associated factors among healthcare workers (HCWs) working in a hospital admitting patients with COVID‐19.

Background

Burnout among HCWs is related to age, gender and occupation. However, little is known about organisational factors associated with burnout during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Design

A cross‐sectional study of 1412 hospital HCWs (748 nurses) was carried out via online survey during the COVID‐19 pandemic between 4 and 19 January 2021.

Methods

The Maslach Burnout Inventory‐Human Services Survey, the Checklist Individual Strength questionnaire, the interRAI items covering mental health, the WHO questionnaire items assessing HCWs' preparedness and exposure to SARS‐CoV‐2 were used. Univariable and multivariable linear regression analyses were conducted to clarify factors associated with emotional exhaustion (EE), depersonalisation (DP) and personal accomplishment (PA). This study adheres to the STROBE guidelines.

Results

Burnout prevalence varied from 10.0% to 22.0%. Most respondents (83.6%) reported low PA, 22.9% high EE and 18.7% high DP. Nurses and physicians had the highest levels of EE and DP. Staff exposed or uncertain if exposed to contaminated patients' body fluids and materials had higher levels of burnout. Preparedness (training) (b = 1.15; 95%CI 0.26 to 2.05) and adherence to infection prevention and control procedures (b = 1.57; 95%CI 0.67 to 2.47) were associated with higher PA, and accessibility of personal protective equipment (PPE) (b = −1.37; 95%CI ‐2.17 to −0.47) was related to lower EE. HCWs working in wards for patients with COVID‐19 reported lower EE (b = −1.39; 95%CI ‐2.45 to −0.32). HCWs who contracted COVID‐19 reported lower DP (b = −0.71, 95%CI ‐1.30 to −0.12).

Conclusions

Organisational factors such as better access to PPE, training, and adherence to infection prevention and control procedures were associated with a lower level of burnout.

Relevance to clinical practice

Healthcare managers should promote strategies to reduce burnout among HCWs with regard to preparedness of all staff.
Renewing our commitment to protect children experiencing armed conflict
Authors: Oberg Charles , Goldhagen Jeffrey , Spencer Nicholas
Published: February 2023

Civilian casualties from armed conflicts have increased, such that 90% of deaths from armed conflicts in the first decade of the 21st century have been civilians, a significant number of whom are children. The acute and chronic effects of armed conflict on child health and well‐being are among the most significant children's rights violations of the 21st century. Children are increasingly exposed to armed conflict and targeted by governmental and non‐governmental combatants. Despite International Human Rights and Humanitarian laws and multiple international declarations, conventions, treaties and courts, injury and death of children due to armed conflicts have worsened over the decades. It is critically important that a concerted effort be undertaken to address and rectify this issue. Toward this end, the Internal Society of Social Pediatrics and Chid Health (ISSOP) and others have called for a renewed commitment to children experiencing armed conflict with an immediate call to implement a new UN Humanitarian Response on Child Casualties in Armed Conflict.