bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cross‐sectional study to identify the prevalence of and factors associated with laminitis in UK donkeys
Authors: Menzies‐Gow Nicola J. , Wakeel Frederica , Little Holly , Buil Jesus , Rickards Karen
Published: September 2021

Background

Laminitis causes lameness in donkeys, but its prevalence and factors associated with disease remain uncertain.

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of and identify factors associated with laminitis in donkeys.

Study design

Retrospective cross‐sectional study.

Methods

All donkeys at the Donkey Sanctuary, UK, October 2015 to March 2019 were included. For animals that had laminitis during this period, age, sex, weight, body condition score, and the onset date and type of each episode (first or recurrent, acute or chronic) were recorded. Additionally, management data, foot lesion score, endocrine data, other medical conditions, occurrence of foot trimming, surgical procedures, diagnostic imaging, behavioural modification therapy or movement between farms within the month prior were noted. Controls were animals that did not experience laminitis during this period and similar data were recorded. Multivariable logistic regression modelling assessed the differences between the control group and laminitis outcome groups (first, all laminitis, acute and chronic episodes).

Results

Altogether, 707 animals were included; 364 were control animals; 343 had a first episode of laminitis during the study period, of which 200/343 had no further episodes and 143/343 had recurrent episodes resulting in a total of 512 laminitis episodes and the period prevalence was 48.5% over 42 months. Overall, 180/512 (35%) laminitis episodes were acute and 332/512 (65%) were chronic. Compared with control animals, the laminitic outcome groups were significantly (P < .05) more likely to be younger (first episode), less likely to get extra feed (all four groups) or have an additional medical problem (first episode), and less likely to have undergone dental work, movement, imaging (all four groups) or surgery (first; all laminitis, chronic episodes) in the month preceding the episode.

Main limitations

These results may not be applicable to the wider donkey population.

Conclusions

Laminitis commonly affects donkeys, but factors associated with donkey laminitis differ from those reported in horses.
Digitalization, accounting and accountability: A literature review and reflections on future research in public services
Authors: Agostino Deborah , Saliterer Iris , Steccolini Ileana
Published: September 2021

This study discusses the current state of the art and future directions of research on digitalization, accountability, and accounting in public services. Through a systematic literature review, we investigate 232 articles published between 1998 and the first quarter of 2020. These studies are analyzed looking at the implications of the increasing digitalization of the public realm for the (i) production of data, (ii) consumption of data, and (iii) their subsequent effects. Based upon this analysis, we identify the following emerging critical digital accountability issues and related future research avenues: the potential for dialogic and horizontal, multicentric accountability; the blurring of accountability roles and boundaries; the increasing relevance of translation processes and translators’ roles—and the need to ensure accountability in such translations; the need to pay stronger attention to social equity and inclusivity implications of digitalization.
Postoperative direct‐acting antiviral treatment after liver resection in patients with hepatitis C virus‐related hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Tanaka Shogo , Shinkawa Hiroji , Tamori Akihiro , Takemura Shigekazu , Uchida‐Kobayashi Sawako , Amano Ryosuke , Kimura Kenjiro , Ohira Go , Nishio Kohei , Tauchi Jun , Kinoshita Masahiko , Kawada Norifumi , Kubo Shoji
Published: September 2021

Aim

We investigated effects of direct‐acting antiviral (DAA)–induced sustained virological response (SVR) after liver resection in patients with hepatitis C virus (HCV)–related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) for postoperative recurrence and survival.

Methods

Surgical outcomes in 18 patients with postoperative DAA‐induced SVR (HCC‐DAA group) were compared with those in 23 patients with preoperative DAA‐induced SVR (DAA‐HCC group) and those in 10 patients who did not receive DAA therapy (control group). Patients who received DAA therapy >1 year after surgery and those with recurrence <1 year after surgery were excluded.

Results

Serum concentrations of aminotransferases improved 1 year after surgery in both the HCC‐DAA and DAA‐HCC groups. The number of HCC‐DAA patients with albumin‐bilirubin (ALBI) grade 1 increased from 11 to 15. The disease‐free survival rate did not differ between HCC‐DAA group (3 years, 60%) and the other two groups (DAA‐HCC group, 92% and control group, 60%). The 3‐year overall survival rates were better in the DAA‐HCC group (84%) and HCC‐DAA group (100%) than in the control group (46%; all ps < 0.05 according to Holm's test). Multivariable analysis revealed that tumor stage was an independent risk factor for postoperative recurrence, and ALBI grade at 1 year after surgery was predictive of postoperative survival, but DAA‐induced SVR was neither.

Conclusions

Although postoperative DAA‐induced SVR itself may not suppress postoperative recurrence, improvement in liver function as a result of DAA administration after surgery may prolong postoperative survival.
Decrease of condom use in heterosexual couples and its impact on pregnancy rates: the Swiss HIV Cohort Study (SHCS)
Authors: Hachfeld Anna , Atkinson Andrew , Calmy Alexandra , de Tejada Begoña Martinez , Hasse Barbara , Paioni Paolo , Kahlert Christian R. , Boillat‐Blanco Noémie , Stoeckle Marcel , Aebi‐Popp Karoline ,   the Swiss HIV Cohort Study, the Swiss Mother, Child HIV Cohort Study (MoCHiV)
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Following the ‘Swiss statement’ in 2008 it became an option to omit the use of condoms in serodiscordant couples and to conceive naturally. We analysed its impact on condom use and pregnancy events.

Methods

In all, 3023 women (aged 18–49 years) participating in the Swiss HIV Cohort Study were included. Observation time was divided into pre‐ and post‐Swiss statement phases (July 2005–December 2008 and January 2009–December 2019). We used descriptive statistics, Poisson interrupted time series analysis for pregnancy incidence, and logistic regression to identify predictors of live births, spontaneous and induced abortions.

Results

Condomless sex in sexually active women increased from 25% in 2005 to 75% in 2019, while pregnancy incidence did not. Women after 2008 experienced higher spontaneous abortion rates (12.1% vs. 17.2%,p = 0.02) while induced abortion and live birth rates did not change significantly. Spontaneous abortions were more common in older women [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.4, 95% CI: 1.2–1.7,p < 0.001], in women consuming alcohol (aOR = 2.8, 95% CI: 1.9–4.1,p < 0.001) and in those with non‐suppressed viral load (aOR = 0.2, 95% CI: 0.1–0.4,p ≤ 0.001). Induced abortions were more likely in women with depression (aOR = 3.4, 95% CI: 1.8–6.3,p < 0.001) and non‐suppressed viral load (aOR = 0.3, 95% CI: 0.2–0.7,p = 0.003).

Conclusions

The publication of the Swiss statement resulted in more condomless sex in heterosexual women, but this did not result in a higher incidence of pregnancy. Maternal age and spontaneous abortion rates increased over time, while induced abortion rates were not significantly affected. Women living with HIV in Switzerland have an unmet need regarding family planning counselling.
THE BREXIT VOTE, INFLATION AND U.K. LIVING STANDARDS
Authors: Breinlich Holger , Leromain Elsa , Novy Dennis , Sampson Thomas
Published: September 2021

This article studies how voting for Brexit affected living standards in the United Kingdom. Using heterogeneity in exposure to import costs across product groups, we analyze how the depreciation of sterling caused by the referendum affected consumer prices. We find that the Brexit depreciation led to higher inflation in product groups with greater import shares in consumer expenditure. Our results are consistent with complete pass‐through of import costs to consumer prices and imply aggregate exchange rate pass‐through of 0.29. We estimate the Brexit depreciation increased consumer prices by 2.9%, costing the average household £870 per year.
A nomogram prediction of pressure injury in critical ill patients: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Xu Wen , Yu Xueshu , Jiang Hao , Wang Yumin , Ye Yincai
Published: September 2021

Pressure injury (PI) is still a significant public health problem to be solved. Accurate prediction can lead to timely prophylaxis and therapy. However, the currently used Braden score shows insufficient predictive validity. We aimed to develop a nomogram to predict PI development in critically ill patients. We extracted data from Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care‐IV v1.0. Variable selection was based on univariate logistic regression and all‐subset regression. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC) was used to assess the performance of the nomogram and Braden score. Decision curve analysis (DCA) was performed to identify and compare the clinical usefulness between the nomogram model and Braden score. We have developed a novel and practical nomogram that accurately predicts pressure ulcers. The AUC of the new model was better than that of the Braden score (P < .001). DCA showed that the nomogram model had a better net benefit than the Braden score at any given threshold. This finding needs to be confirmed by external validation as well as multicentre prospective studies.
Barriers to healthy eating among nurses working in hospitals: A meta‐synthesis
Authors: Cheong Zu Yu , Lopez Violeta , Tam Wai San Wilson
Published: September 2021

Aim

To explore the barriers to healthy eating among nurses working in hospitals.

Design

Meta‐synthesis.

Data sources

Published and unpublished papers were identified through electronic searches on PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, Embase, Scopus, COCHRANE Library, Food Science and Technology Abstract, ProQuest Dissertations and Theses and OpenGrey from inception until 6 September 2020. English‐language primary qualitative or mixed‐method studies on barriers to healthy eating among hospital nurses were included. Mixed‐method studies were eligible if their qualitative data were distinguishable. Studies on nursing assistants, enrolled nurses, nursing students, and patient‐care assistants were excluded, as well as studies without full‐texts, correlational studies, quantitative surveys, exploratory studies, conference abstracts and reviews.

Methods

The studies were appraised using Critical Appraisal Skills Programme checklist. Qualitative data were extracted using Joanna Briggs Institute Qualitative Data Extraction Tool. Data synthesis followed two stages, meta‐summary and meta‐synthesis, proposed by Sandelowski & Barroso.

Results

Twelve studies published from 2008 to 2020 involving 618 hospital nurses were included. The meta‐summary generated 10 themes, which were meta‐synthesized into three interrelated themes: personal barriers (e.g. nonchalance towards unhealthy eating), interprofessional and patient‐related barriers (e.g. sharing unhealthy food), and organizational barriers (e.g. overwhelming work demands).

Conclusion

Insufficient self‐control and self‐confidence, nonchalance and negligence towards healthy eating and cultural beliefs that oppose the practice of healthy eating (personal barriers), exposure of unhealthy food practices in wards (interprofessional and patient‐related barriers) and hospital cafeterias, overwhelming work exigencies and institutional constraints (organizational barriers) hindered nurses to achieve wholesome healthy eating.

Impact

Many hospital nurses’ encountered challenges in healthy eating, thereby potentially jeopardizing their health and work performance. The findings emphasized the need of a joint effort by hospital nurses, families and colleagues, and hospital institutions to overcome the barriers to healthy eating faced by the hospital nurses.
A novel rat model of vertebral inflammation–induced intervertebral disc degeneration mediated by activating cGAS/STING molecular pathway
Authors: Su Qihang , Cai Qiuchen , Li Yongchao , Ge Hengan , Zhang Yuanzhen , Zhang Yi , Tan Jun , Li Jie , Cheng Biao , Zhang Yan
Published: September 2021

In this study, we describe a new rat model of vertebral inflammation–induced caudal intervertebral disc degeneration (VI‐IVDD), in which IVD structure was not damaged and controllable segment and speed degeneration was achieved. VI‐IVDD model was obtained by placing lipopolysaccharide (LPS) in the caudal vertebral bodies of rats. Rat experimental groups were set as follows: normal control group, group with a hole drilled in the middle of vertebral body and not filled with LPS (Blank group), group with a hole drilled in the middle of vertebral body and filled with LPS (Mid group), and group with hole drilled in the vertebral body in proximity of IVD and filled with LPS (NIVD group). Radiological results of VI‐IVDD rats showed a significant reduction in the intervertebral space height and decrease in MRI T2 signal intensity. Histological stainings also revealed that the more the nucleus pulposus and endplate degenerated, the more the annulus fibrosus structure appeared disorganized. Immunohistochemistry analysis demonstrated that the expression of Aggrecan and collagen‐II decreased, whereas that of MMP‐3 increased in Mid and NIVD groups. Abundant local production of pro‐inflammatory cytokines was detected together with increased infiltration of M1 macrophages in Mid and NIVD groups. Apoptosis ratio remarkably enhanced in Mid and NIVD groups. Interestingly, we found a strong activation of the cyclic GMP‐AMP synthase /stimulator of interferon gene signalling pathway, which is strictly related to inflammatory and degenerative diseases. In this study, we generated a new, reliable and reproducible IVDD rat model, in which controllable segment and speed degeneration was achieved.
Phylogeography and population genetics of the cryptic bonnethead sharkSphyrnaaff.tiburoinBraziland theCaribbeaninferred from mtDNAmarkers
Authors: Gonzalez Cindy , Postaire Bautisse , Domingues Rodrigo R. , Feldheim Kevin A. , Caballero Susana , Chapman Demian
Published: September 2021

Resolving the identity, phylogeny and distribution of cryptic species within species complexes is an essential precursor to management. The bonnethead shark,Sphyrna tiburo, is a small coastal shark distributed in the Western Atlantic from North Carolina (U.S.A.) to southern Brazil. Genetic analyses based on mitochondrial markers revealed that bonnethead sharks comprise a species complex with at least two lineages in the Northwestern Atlantic and the Caribbean (S. tiburoandSphyrnaaff. tiburo, respectively). The phylogeographic and phylogenetic analysis of two mitochondrial markers [control region (mtCR) and cytochrome oxidase I (COI)] showed that bonnethead sharks from southeastern Brazil correspond toS. aff.tiburo, extending the distribution of this cryptic species >5000 km. Bonnethead shark populations are only managed in the U.S.A. and in the 2000s were considered to be regionally extinct or collapsed in southeast Brazil. The results indicate that there is significant genetic differentiation betweenS. aff.tiburofrom Brazil and other populations from the Caribbean (ΦST = 0.9053,P < 0.000), which means that collapsed populations in the former are unlikely to be replenished from Caribbean immigration. The species identity of bonnethead sharks in the Southwest Atlantic and their relationship to North Atlantic and Caribbean populations still remains unresolved. Taxonomic revision and further sampling are required to reevaluate the status of the bonnethead shark complex through its distribution range.
The effects of population and thermal acclimation on the growth, condition and cold responsive mRNA expression of age‐0 lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens)
Authors: Bugg William S. , Yoon Gwangseok R. , Brandt Catherine , Earhart Madison L. , Anderson W. Gary , Jeffries Ken M.
Published: September 2021

In Manitoba, Canada, wild lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) populations exist along a latitudinal gradient and are reared in hatcheries to bolster threatened populations. We reared two populations of lake sturgeon, one from each of the northern and southern ends of Manitoba and examined the effects of typical hatchery temperatures (16°C) as well as 60‐day acclimation to elevated rearing temperatures (20°C) on mortality, growth and condition throughout early development. Additionally, we examined the cold shock response, which may be induced during stocking, through the hepatic mRNA expression of genes involved in the response to cold stress and homeoviscous adaptation (HSP70, HSP90a, HSP90b, CIRP and SCD). Sturgeon were sampled after 1 day and 1 week following stocking into temperatures of 8, 6 and 4°C in a controlled laboratory environment. The southern population showed lower condition and higher mortality during early life than the northern population while increased rearing temperature impacted the growth and condition of developing northern sturgeon. During the cold shock, HSP70 and HSP90a mRNA expression increased in all sturgeon treatments as stocking temperature decreased, with higher expression observed in the southern population. Expression of HSP90b, CIRP and SCD increased as stocking temperature decreased in northern sturgeon with early acclimation to 20°C. Correlation analyses indicated the strongest molecular relationships were in the expression of HSP90b, CIRP and SCD, across all treatments, with a correlation between HSP90b and body condition in northern sturgeon with early acclimation to 20°C. Together, these observations highlight the importance of population and rearing environment throughout early development and on later cellular responses induced by cold stocking temperatures.
Efficacy of heat‐killed and formalin‐killed vaccines against Tilapia tilapinevirus in juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Mai Thao Thu , Kayansamruaj Pattanapon , Taengphu Suwimon , Senapin Saengchan , Costa Janina Z. , del‐Pozo Jorge , Thompson Kim D. , Rodkhum Channarong , Dong Ha Thanh
Published: September 2021

Tilapia tilapinevirus (also known as tilapia lake virus, TiLV) is considered to be a new threat to the global tilapia industry. The objective of this study was to develop simple cell culture‐based heat‐killed (HKV) and formalin‐killed (FKV) vaccines for the prevention of disease caused by TiLV. The fish were immunized with 100 µl of either HKV or FKV by intraperitoneal injection with each vaccine containing 1.8 × 106 TCID50‐inactivated virus. A booster vaccination was carried out at 21‐day post‐vaccination (dpv) using the same protocol. The fish were then challenged with a lethal dose of TiLV at 28 dpv. The expression of five immune genes (IgM, IgD, IgT, CD4 and CD8) in the head kidney and spleen of experimental fish was assessed at 14 and 21 dpv and again after the booster vaccination at 28 dpv. TiLV‐specific IgM responses were measured by ELISA at the same time points. The results showed that both vaccines conferred significant protection, with relative percentage survival of 71.3% and 79.6% for HKV and FKV, respectively. Significant up‐regulation of IgM and IgT was observed in the head kidney of fish vaccinated with HKV at 21 dpv, while IgM, IgD and CD4 expression increased in the head kidney of fish receiving FKV at the same time point. After booster vaccination, IgT and CD8 transcripts were significantly increased in the spleen of fish vaccinated with the HKV, but not with FKV. Both vaccines induced a specific IgM response in both serum and mucus. In summary, this study showed that both HKV and FKV are promising injectable vaccines for the prevention of disease caused by TiLV in Nile tilapia.
Pharmacokinetics of oral versus intravenous ibuprofen for closure of patent ductus arteriosus: A pilot randomised controlled study
Authors: Edison Priyantha Ebenezer , Chen Sylvia , Yeo Cheo Lian , Allen John C , Poon Woei Bing , Baral Vijayendra R , Chowbay Balram
Published: September 2021

Aim

This pilot study aimed to compare the pharmacokinetic profiles of oral (PO) and intravenous (IV) ibuprofen for treatment of patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) in preterm neonates.

Methods

In a single‐centre, parallel, randomised open‐label trial, neonates ≤35 weeks, weight <1800 g with haemodynamically significant PDA during the first week of life were recruited between June 2017 and February 2019 and randomised to receive either PO or IV ibuprofen at standard dosage of 10, 5 and 5 mg/kg every 24 h for three consecutive days. Plasma concentrations of ibuprofen were quantified using a validated high‐performance liquid chromatography method and pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated. Treatment outcomes were recorded.

Results

Eleven neonates participated in the trial, six and five patients receiving PO and IV ibuprofen, respectively. Pharmacokinetic analysis reveals similar ibuprofen exposure levels in treatment groups. Median dose‐ and weight‐normalised Cmax values of PO and IV groups were 2.12 and 2.53 g/mL respectively (P = 0.082) and median AUC0‐24 levels were comparable (PO: 34.6 g*h/mL vs. IV: 50.7.6 g*h/mL, P = 0.25).

Conclusion

This exploratory study demonstrates comparable pharmacokinetics of PO and IV formulations of ibuprofen in preterm neonates. Larger prospective studies are required to validate these findings.
A new GJR‐GARCH model for ℤ‐valued time series
Authors: Xu Yue , Zhu Fukang
Published: September 2021

The Glosten–Jagannathan–Runkle GARCH (GJR‐GARCH) model is popular in accounting for asymmetric responses in the volatility in the analysis of continuous‐valued financial time series, but asymmetric responses in the volatility are also observed in time series of counts or ‐valued time series, such as the daily number of stock transactions or the daily stock returns divided by tick price (1 cent). Two different integer‐valued GARCH models based on Poisson distribution have been proposed for these two types of discrete data respectively. Shifted geometric distribution is more flexible than Poisson distribution, whose variance is greater than its mean. In this article, we propose a GJR‐GARCH model based on shifted geometric distribution for ‐valued time series exhibiting asymmetric volatility. Basic probabilistic properties of the new model are given, and the maximum likelihood method is used to estimate unknown parameters and the asymptotic normality of corresponding estimators is established. A simulation study is presented to illustrate the estimation method. An empirical application to a real data concerning the daily stock returns divided by tick price is considered to show the proposed model's superiority compared with existing models.
The factor analytical approach in trending near unit root panels
Authors: Westerlund Joakim , Norkutė Milda , Stauskas Ovidijus
Published: September 2021

In this study, we revisit the factor analytical (FA) approach for (near unit root) dynamic panel data models, whose asymptotic distribution has been shown to be normal and well centered at zero without the need for valid instruments or correction for bias. It is therefore very appealing. The question is: Does the appeal of FA, which so far has only been documented for fixed effects panels, extends to panels with incidental trends? This is an important question, because many persistent variables are trending. The answer turns out to be negative. In particular, while consistent, the asymptotic normality of FA breaks down when there is an exact unit root present, which limits its applicability.
Modeling normalcy‐dominant ordinal time series: An application to air quality level
Authors: Liu Mengya , Zhu Fukang , Zhu Ke
Published: September 2021

Inspired by the study of air quality level data, this article proposes a new model for the normalcy‐dominant ordinal time series. The proposed model is based on a new zero‐one‐inflated bounded Poisson distribution with an autoregressive feedback mechanism in intensity. Under certain conditions, the stationarity and maximum likelihood estimation are established for the model. Moreover, a Lagrange multiplier test is constructed to detect the inflation phenomenon in the model. Applications find that the model can adequately capture the air quality level data in 30 major cities in China. More importantly, this article uses the fitted models to make the overall and dynamic air quality rankings for these cities, and finds that both rankings are rational and informative to the public.
Population structure of a newly recorded (Halodule uninervis) and native seagrass (Halophila ovalis) species from an intertidal creek ecosystem
Authors: Mishra Amrit Kumar , Khadanga Mukunda Kesari , Patro Shesdev , Apte Deepak , Farooq Syed Hilal
Published: September 2021

The presence of the seagrass Halodule uninervis was documented for the first time outside the Chilika lagoon at Haripur creek, along with previously documented Halophila ovalis from the same region. The population structure (density; biomass; leaf growth rate; and morphometrics) and environmental parameters was assessed for both seagrass species. The pH levels of the water column above both seagrass meadows were lower than the standard oceanic pH of 8.2, likely attributable to upstream freshwater influences. Halophila ovalis grew on sandy and H. uninervis on silty substrates. High nutrient (nitrate and phosphate) concentrations in the water column of the creek influenced the growth of macroalgae (Ceramium sp. and Gracilaria verrucosa) on the leaves of H. uninervis. Leaf reddening was only observed in H. ovalis leaves. Under similar environmental conditions, the shoot density and biomass (above‐ and below‐ground) of H. ovalis were 2‐fold lower that for H. uninervis. The leaves of H. uninervis were 9‐fold longer than H. ovalis, whereas H. ovalis had 5‐fold wider leaves than H. uninervis. The leaf plastochrone interval of H. ovalis (2.3 days) and H. uninervis (9.6 days) was similar for the Indian Ocean region. Consequently, the H. ovalis leaf growth rate was 2‐fold lower than that for H. uninervis. H. ovalis shoot internodes were 2.6‐fold longer than for H. uninervis, whereas the root lengths of H. uninervis were longer than for H. ovalis. The shorter root length of H. ovalis resulted in a higher branching frequency than for H. uninervis. The total C and N content were higher in the H. ovalis leaves than those of H. uninervis. This study suggest seagrass responses to similar environmental conditions are species‐specific. Regular assessment of the seagrass population structure and water quality monitoring of Haripur creek are essential for better management and conservation of these important seascapes.
The use of intravesical hyaluronic acid in the management of symptomatic premenopausal women with pseudomembranous trigonitis: Are symptoms related to cystoscopy and pathological findings?
Authors: Stavropoulos Marios , Thakare Niyukta , Venieris Panagiotis , Liakouras Christos , Deliveliotis Charalampos , Chrisofos Michael
Published: September 2021

Objectives

To determine the effectiveness and safety of intravesical hyaluronic acid (HA) in symptomatic women with trigonitis and to correlate the severity of symptoms with the endoscopic and histological findings.

Methods

Thirty‐seven patients (aged 20‐46 years) were enrolled. All patients had cystoscopy and biopsy of the bladder trigone followed by intravesical instillations of sodium HA once weekly for 10 weeks and then once monthly for the next 10 months. Clinical response was evaluated by Pain and Urgency/Frequency (PUF) Symptom Scale, visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and urgency and functional bladder capacity. A repeat cystoscopy and biopsy were performed at the end of the treatment. Symptoms and cystoscopy and pathological findings were compared before and after treatment.

Results

The average initial score for pain was reduced from 5.5 to 2.8 (P < 0.001) at 10 weeks and further to 2.4 (P < 0.001) at 12 months and the score for urgency from 6.9 to 3.8 (P < 0.001) and further to 3.3 (P < 0.001). The average PUF score initially decreased from 20.5 to 12.1 (P < 0.001) and then further to 10.1 (P = 0.21). The mean functional bladder capacity increased from 125 to 204 mL (P < 0.001). No association was found between baseline PUF score and cystoscopy findings (P = 0.87). The PUF score was not changed significantly between patients with improved cystoscopy and those with stable findings (P = 0.74). No significant changes were reported between initial and final biopsies.

Conclusions

Intravesical HA appeared to be effective and well tolerated, although a clear relationship between symptoms and trigonitis was not confirmed.
Telomere dynamics in relation to experimentally increased locomotion costs and fitness in great tits
Authors: Atema Els , van Noordwijk Arie J. , Verhulst Simon
Published: September 2021

Evidence that telomere length (TL) and dynamics can be interpreted as proxy for ‘life stress’ experienced by individuals stems largely from correlational studies. We tested for effects of an experimental increase of workload on telomere dynamics by equipping male great tits (Parus major) with a 0.9 g backpack for a full year. In addition, we analysed associations between natural life‐history variation, TL and TL dynamics. Carrying 5% extra weight for a year did not significantly accelerate telomere attrition. This agrees with our earlier finding that this experiment did not affect survival or future reproduction. Apparently, great tit males were able to compensate behaviourally or physiologically for the increase in locomotion costs we imposed. We found no cross‐sectional association between reproductive success and TL, but individuals with higher reproductive success (number of recruits) lost fewer telomere base pairs in the subsequent year. We used the TRF method to measure TL, which method yields a TL distribution for each sample, and the association between reproductive success and telomere loss was more pronounced in the higher percentiles of the telomere distribution, in agreement with the higher impact of ageing on longer telomeres within individuals. Individuals with longer telomeres and less telomere shortening were more likely to survive to the next breeding season, but these patterns did not reach statistical significance. Whether successful individuals are characterized by losing fewer or more base pairs from their telomeres varies between species, and we discuss aspects of ecology and social organisation that may explain this variation.
Passive acoustic monitoring reveals feeding attempts at close range from soaking demersal longlines by two killer whale ecotypes
Authors: Richard Gaëtan , Bonnel Julien , Beesau Julie , Calvo Eva , Cassiano Fabio , Dramet Maéva , Glaziou Aziliz , Korycka Kinga , Guinet Christophe , Samaran Flore
Published: September 2021

Odontocetes depredating fish caught on longlines is a serious socio‐economic and conservation issue. A good understanding of the underwater depredation behavior by odontocetes is therefore required. Historically, depredation on demersal longlines has always been assumed to occur during the hauling phase. In this study, we have focused on the depredation behavior of two ecotypes of killer whales, Orcinus orca, (Crozet and Type D) from demersal longlines around the Crozet Archipelago (Southern Indian Ocean) using passive acoustic monitoring. We assessed 74 hr of killer whale acoustic presence out of 1,233 hr of recordings. Data were obtained from 29 hydrophone deployments from five fishing vessels between February and March 2018. We monitored killer whale buzzing activity (i.e., echolocation signals) as a proxy for feeding attempts around soaking longlines. These recordings revealed that the two ecotypes were feeding at close range from soaking longlines, even when fishing vessels were not present. Our results suggest that both killer whale ecotypes are likely to depredate soaking longlines, which would imply an underestimation of their depredation rates. The implication of underestimating depredation rates is inaccurate accounting for fish mortality in fisheries' stock assessments.
E‐&mHealth interventions targeting nutrition, physical activity, sedentary behavior, and/or obesity among children: A scoping review of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses
Authors: Kracht Chelsea L. , Hutchesson Melinda , Ahmed Mavra , Müller Andre Matthias , Ashton Lee M. , Brown Hannah M. , DeSmet Ann , Maher Carol A. , Mauch Chelsea E. , Vandelanotte Corneel , Yin Zenong , Whatnall Megan , Short Camille E. , Staiano Amanda E.
Published: September 2021

Childhood obesity is a public health concern. Electronic and mobile health (e‐&mHealth) approaches can facilitate the delivery of interventions for obesity prevention and treatment. Synthesizing reviews of e‐&mHealth interventions to improve weight and weight‐related behaviors (physical activity, sedentary behavior, and diet) is useful to characterize the current scope of the literature and identify opportunities for future reviews and studies. Using a scoping review methodology, we aimed to evaluate the breadth and methodological quality of systematic reviews and meta‐analyses of e‐&mHealth interventions targeting weight and weight‐related behaviors in children and adolescents aged <19 years. A systematic search of seven databases was conducted, including reviews published between 2000 and 2019. Review characteristics were extracted, and methodological quality was assessed using the AMSTAR 2 tool. Forty‐five systematic reviews and meta‐analyses were included. All reviews evaluated intervention efficacy (100%), but few assessed other aspects (20% in total) such as cost‐effectiveness. Smartphone applications (47%), text messages (44%), and websites (35%) were the main modalities. Weight (60%), physical activity (51%), and diet (44%) were frequently assessed, unlike sedentary behavior (8%). Most reviews were rated as having critically low or low methodological quality (97%). Reviews that identify the effective active ingredients of interventions and explore metrics beyond efficacy are recommended.
Perioperative respiratory adverse events in children undergoing triple endoscopy
Authors: Sanders Kyle , Osterbauer Beth , Forman Nell , Jin Yim Hyun , Hochstim Christian , Bhardwaj Vrinda , Bansal Manvi , Karnwal Abhishek
Published: September 2021

Objectives

Children with aerodigestive disorders often have many of the reported risk factors for development of perioperative respiratory adverse events. This study sought to evaluate the incidence of such events in this group of patients undergoing general anesthesia for “triple endoscopy” (flexible bronchoscopy with bronchoalveolar lavage, rigid laryngoscopy and bronchoscopy, and esophagogastroduodenoscopy) and to identify any patient‐specific or procedure‐specific risk factors associated with higher incidence of perioperative respiratory adverse events.

Methods

We performed a retrospective chart review of children 18 years or younger who underwent triple endoscopy as part of an aerodigestive evaluation. Data collected from medical records included: preoperative polysomnography, symptoms of acute respiratory illness, medical comorbidities, demographics, postoperative hospital or intensive care unit admission, and all respiratory events and interventions in the perioperative period. Patient‐specific and procedure‐specific factors were investigated via univariate analysis for any correlations with perioperative respiratory adverse events.

Results

Of the 122 patients undergoing triple endoscopy, 69 (57%) experienced a perioperative respiratory adverse event. We found no difference in the incidence of perioperative respiratory adverse events among children with documented lung disease compared with those with no lung disease (OR: 0.89, p = .8 95% CI: 0.43, 1.8), and no significant difference between those children who had a respiratory illness at the time of surgery, 1–2 weeks prior, 3–4 weeks prior, and those with no preceding respiratory illness. A higher percentage of males had a perioperative respiratory adverse event, compared with females (OR: 2.7, p = .01 95% CI: 1.3, 5.09).

Conclusion

Patients undergoing triple endoscopy for evaluation of aerodigestive disorders at our institution experienced perioperative respiratory adverse events at a rate of 57%.
Outcomes of dexmedetomidine sedation for drug‐induced sleep ciné magnetic resonance imaging studies in pediatric obstructive sleep apnea patients
Authors: Narayanasamy Suryakumar , Winograd‐Gomez Vera , Joshi Hem , Yang Fang , Ding Lili , Ishman Stacey L. , Fleck Robert J. , Patino Mario , Mahmoud Mohamed
Published: September 2021

Background

Dexmedetomidine is utilized as a sedative agent for drug‐induced sleep cine magnetic resonance imaging studies due to its ability to mimic natural sleep and lack of respiratory depressant effects. The outcomes of dexmedetomidine sedation such as respiratory complications and unplanned admissions in obstructive sleep apnea patients undergoing these studies are currently unknown.

Aim

To describe the outcomes of dexmedetomidine sedation for outpatient drug‐induced sleep magnetic resonance imaging in pediatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea.

Methods

This is a retrospective chart review conducted in pediatric patients with obstructive sleep apnea undergoing outpatient drug‐induced sleep ciné magnetic resonance imaging studies with dexmedetomidine sedation. Demographics, comorbidities, polysomnography study results, vital signs, respiratory complications, airway interventions, successful completion of the scan, and unplanned hospital admissions were measured.

Main Results

We analyzed 337 patients aged 2–18 years (median age of 11 years). The imaging was completed with dexmedetomidine as the sole sedative agent in 61% (N = 207) patients. Ketamine was administered as additional sedative agent in 36% (N = 122) of the patients. There was no difference in sedation‐related adverse events and respiratory complications with regard to the severity of sleep apnea with the exception of mild desaturation episodes (SpO2 85%–90%). Patients who received additional sedative agents had significantly longer recovery room stay (71.5 [44] vs 55 [39] minutes; 95% CI of difference [9 to 23 min], p < 0.001) and total periprocedural stay (164.5 [52] vs 138 [64] minutes; 95% CI of difference [17 to 35 min], p < .001).

Conclusions

Dexmedetomidine alone or along with ketamine provided acceptable sedation in majority of the patients with obstructive sleep apnea undergoing outpatient diagnostic sleep magnetic resonance imaging studies without significant respiratory adverse events regardless of the severity of sleep apnea. Sedation failure and unplanned admissions are rare, and routine planned admission may not be required for this patient population.
Human leukocyte antigen eplet mismatching is associated with increased risk of graft loss and rejection after pediatric heart transplant
Authors: Albers Erin L. , Friedland‐Little Joshua M. , Hong Borah J. , Kemna Mariska S. , Warner Paul , Law Yuk M.
Published: September 2021

Background

While mismatching between donor and recipient human leukocyte antigen (HLA) alleles has been associated with increased graft loss in pediatric heart recipients, it is actually the surface amino acid structures, termed eplets, which determine the antigenicity of each HLA molecule. We hypothesized that HLA eplet mismatch analysis is a better predictor of adverse outcomes after pediatric heart transplant than conventional allele mismatch comparison.

Methods

A retrospective review of the Pediatric Heart Transplant Society database identified pediatric heart recipients (<18 years at listing) with complete donor and recipient HLA typing (A, B, and DR). Imputed high‐resolution HLA genotypes were entered into HLAMatchmaker software which then calculated the number of eplet mismatches between each donor‐recipient pair. Multivariable Cox regression analysis was used to examine associations between allele or eplet mismatching and adverse outcomes.

Results

Compared to those with <20 HLA class I eplet mismatches, recipients with 20 or more HLA class I eplet mismatches had an increased risk of graft loss (HR 1.46 [1.01–2.12], p = .049). HLA class I eplet mismatching was also associated with rejection (>20 mismatches: HR 1.30 [1.03–1.65], p = .030), while HLA class II eplet mismatching was associated with specified antibody‐mediated rejection (10–20 mismatches: HR 1.57 [1.06–2.34], p = .025; >20 mismatches: HR 3.14 [1.72–5.71], p < .001). Neither HLA class I nor class II allele mismatching was significantly associated with graft loss or rejection.

Conclusion

Eplet mismatch analysis was more predictive of adverse post‐transplant outcomes (including graft loss and rejection) than allele mismatch comparison. Further study, including prospective high‐resolution HLA typing, is warranted.
Higher‐order metaphysics
Authors: Skiba Lukas
Published: September 2021

Subverting a once widely held Quinean paradigm, there is a growing consensus among philosophers of logic that higher‐order quantifiers (which bind variables in the syntactic position of predicates and sentences) are a perfectly legitimate and useful instrument in the logico‐philosophical toolbox, while neither being reducible to nor fully explicable in terms of first‐order quantifiers (which bind variables in singular term position). This article discusses the impact of this quantificational paradigm shift on metaphysics, focussing on theories of properties, propositions, and identity, as well as on the metaphysics of modality.
Sperm production and quality in European eel (Anguilla anguilla) in relation to hormonal treatment
Authors: Koumpiadis Paraskevas , Sganga Daniela E. , Politis Sebastian N. , Gallego Victor , Butts Ian A. E. , Asturiano Juan F. , Batjakas Ioannis E. , Tomkiewicz Jonna
Published: September 2021

Aquaculture production relies on controlled management of gametogenesis, especially in species where assisted reproduction is needed for obtaining gametes in captivity. The present study used human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) treatments to induce and sustain spermatogenesis in European eel (Anguilla anguilla). The aim was to evaluate effects of strip‐spawning timing (12 vs. 24 hr) after weekly administration of hCG and the necessity of a primer dose (in addition to weekly hormonal treatment) prior to strip spawning (primer vs. no‐primer) on sperm quality parameters. Sperm parameters included milt production (weight), density and sperm kinematics at Week 9, 11 and 13 after onset of treatment. Spermiation commenced in 11.5% of males in Week 5 and by Week 9, and all males produced milt. Male weight, milt production, sperm density and spermatocrit did not differ among hormonal treatments during the experimental period. Overall, male weight decreased from 106.3 to 93.0 g, milt weight increased from 3.5 to 5.4 g, sperm density counts decreased from 11.7 × 109 to 10.5 × 109 cells/ml, and spermatocrit decreased from 46.5% to 40.5%. Furthermore, spermatocrit was positively related to haemocytometer counts (R2 = .86, p < .001), providing a reliable indicator of sperm density. Differences in sperm kinematics were observed depending on strip‐spawning timing after hormonal injection (12 vs. 24 hr) but with no consistent pattern. These sperm quality parameters also did not consistently differ between the no‐primer and primer treatments. Considering that each male may be stripped 4–5 times over the 2–3 months spawning season, omitting the primer would reduce animal handling, material costs and labour intensity, while sustaining high‐quality sperm production.
Asymmetries of Internationalism: Performing and Remembering Subnational Internationalism in the Age of Developed Socialism
Authors: NUNAN TIMOTHY
Published: September 2021

During the twentieth century, the socialist bloc became a second home for socialists from Iran and Afghanistan. Iranian socialists almost certainly constituted the largest foreign diaspora in the USSR at the time of its dissolution, and Soviet entanglements in Afghanistan led to a large flow of Afghan soldiers, students, and socialists to the Soviet Union in the latter half of the twentieth century. The USSR also sponsored Persian socialist internationalism domestically in the form of the Tajik SSR. This paper uses sources from all three sides of the “Persianate triangle” (Tajikistan, Iran, and Afghanistan) to highlight how encounters between socialist groups often highlighted differences between these groups' understanding of socialism despite a shared Persian language. More broadly, it points to the importance of “subnational actors” in the making of Soviet foreign policy. Case studies of a Tajik translator in the Democratic Republic of Afghanistan as well as Iranian socialist exiles in Kabul also show how the memory of socialist internationalism has been processed and narrated very differently within the Iranian diaspora and Tajikistan today. In conclusion, the article shows how the networks forged by Soviet internationalism have often been reworked in the wake of the collapse of the USSR and offers reflections on how scholars can engage further in the study of “subnational internationalism.”
Soil organic carbon fractions and its association with water‐stable aggregates under different fertilization management practices
Authors: Zhao Zhanhui , Gao Songfeng , Lu Chunyang , Li Xiaoyu , Wang Tingyun
Published: September 2021

Agricultural soil organic carbon (SOC) plays a critical role in soil ecosystems, and SOC sequestration is a key ecosystem service. This study investigated the SOC fractions, including mineral‐incorporated organic carbon (MSC), intra‐particulate organic carbon (iPOC) and microbial biomass carbon (MBC), in bulk soil and water‐stable aggregates, as influenced by soil fertilization managements, using three treatments: no fertilizer (CK), chemical fertilizer (FR) and organic manure (OM). Fertilizer application significantly increased SOC content and its fractions (MSC, iPOC and MBC) compared to CK, and the effect of organic manure amendment had more impact on the SOC accumulation than chemical fertilizer. Macroaggregate (>250 μm)‐associated SOC, MSC and iPOC (including fine and coarse iPOC) increased by 22%–283%, 18%–84% and 45%–232%, respectively, in FR and OM treatments compared with CK. In addition, the iPOC:MSC ratio values (%) within all size aggregates were all increased in the FR (about 84%–183%) and OM (about 103%–230%) treatments compared to CK (about 65%–146%). Meanwhile, MBC:SOC ratio values were the highest (about 2.16%–3.07%) in small macroaggregates (250–2000 μm), but decreased sharply (about 2%–2.35%) in large macroaggregates (>2000 μm) in different treatments. Our findings suggested that macroaggregates were the main sites of carbon sequestration and that carbon became more unstable with the increase of SOC in aggregates. Furthermore, the microbial biomass showed obvious differentiation characteristics in macroaggregates (>250 μm). Specifically, small macroaggregates (250–2000 μm) contained more microbial biomass, and large macroaggregates (>2000 μm) were inclined to inhibit microbial activity.