bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative analysis of meat quality and chemical composition among three weight groups of Chinese Ningdu yellow chicken: Implications for customer choice
Authors: Hu Xiaolong , Wan Lei , Liu Shuibing , Chen Biao , Li Wen , Wu Chonghua , Xiong Ting , Xi Suwang , Mao Huirong , Liu Sanfeng
Published: September 2021

The aim of this study was to compare the meat quality and evaluate the chemical composition of Chinese Ningdu yellow chicken of different weights once they have reached market age. Thirty hens at the day of age 118 were selected and divided into three groups according to their weight: light weight (1288.00 ± 69.78 g, n = 10), medium weight (1407.17 ± 39.40 g, n = 10), heavy weight (1581.6 ± 46.59 g, n = 10), and the differences in weight among these three groups are significant. Biochemical, histological, and metabonomic approaches were used to obtain index values of meat quality and chemical composition. Compared with meat from lighter chickens, muscle fiber density was significantly lower in heavier chickens, and meat pH was positively correlated with chicken weight. Though the amount of all measured amino acids were not different among three weight groups of chicken, the levels of several kinds of fatty acids exhibited significant differences or correlations, including linolenic acid, arachidonic acid, myristic acid, oleic acid, and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). These results contribute to help customers choose the optimal chicken weight depending upon the food to be cooked.
Accounting for post‐randomization variables in meta‐analysis: A joint meta‐regression approach
Authors: Lian Qinshu , Zhang Jing , Hodges James S. , Chen Yong , Chu Haitao
Published: September 2021

Meta‐regression is widely used in systematic reviews to investigate sources of heterogeneity and the association of study‐level covariates with treatment effectiveness. Existing meta‐regression approaches are successful in adjusting for baseline covariates, which include real study‐level covariates (e.g., publication year) that are invariant within a study and aggregated baseline covariates (e.g., mean age) that differ for each participant but are measured before randomization within a study. However, these methods have several limitations in adjusting for post‐randomization variables. Although post‐randomization variables share a handful of similarities with baseline covariates, they differ in several aspects. First, baseline covariates can be aggregated at the study level presumably because they are assumed to be balanced by the randomization, while post‐randomization variables are not balanced across arms within a study and are commonly aggregated at the arm level. Second, post‐randomization variables may interact dynamically with the primary outcome. Third, unlike baseline covariates, post‐randomization variables are themselves often important outcomes under investigation. In light of these differences, we propose a Bayesian joint meta‐regression approach adjusting for post‐randomization variables. The proposed method simultaneously estimates the treatment effect on the primary outcome and on the post‐randomization variables. It takes into consideration both between‐ and within‐study variability in post‐randomization variables. Studies with missing data in either the primary outcome or the post‐randomization variables are included in the joint model to improve estimation. Our method is evaluated by simulations and a real meta‐analysis of major depression disorder treatments.
Characteristics of thrombocytopenia, anasarca, fever, reticulin fibrosis and organomegaly syndrome: a retrospective study from a large Western cohort
Authors: Maisonobe Lucas , Bertinchamp Rémi , Damian Louise , Gérard Laurence , Berisha Mirlinda , Guillet Stéphanie , Fieschi Claire , Malphettes Marion , Fadlallah Jehane , Hié Miguel , Dunogué Bertrand , De Wilde Virginie , Vandergheynst Frédéric , Zafrani Lara , Grall Maximilien , Saada Noémie , Garzaro Margaux , Oksenhendler Eric , Galicier Lionel , Boutboul David
Published: September 2021

Idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease (iMCD) is a non‐clonal inflammatory lymphoproliferative disorder of unknown origin. Recently, TAFRO syndrome (thrombocytopenia, anasarca, fever, reticulin fibrosis and organomegaly) emerged as a singular variant of iMCD in Asia and was associated with a severe course and a poor outcome. The present study describes the first large Western cohort of TAFRO syndrome patients (n = 25) meeting the All Japan TAFRO Syndrome Research Group diagnostic criteria. Characteristics of TAFRO patients were compared to iMCD‐not otherwise specified (iMCD‐NOS) patients used as a control group (n = 43). Our results show that despite baseline characteristics in accordance with previously reported series, Western TAFRO syndrome patients do not appear to present with a worse outcome than iMCD‐NOS patients. There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding treatment choice, response to rituximab (71% vs. 67%) or tocilizumab (69% vs. 91%) in TAFRO and iMCD‐NOS, respectively. The two‐year overall survival was above 95% in both groups. Limits of inclusion and exclusion criteria for TAFRO definition are also discussed. Our findings raise the question of the singularity of the TAFRO entity in Western countries. The data should promote further research using unsupervised models to identify markers of disease severity in Western cohorts of iMCD patients.
Observed dyadic racial socialization disrupts the association between frequent discriminatory experiences and emotional reactivity among Black adolescents
Authors: Dunbar Angel S. , HaRim Ahn Lydia , Coates Erica E. , Smith‐Bynum Mia A.
Published: September 2021

Understanding the underlying mechanisms by which racism degrades mental health and the factors that disrupt these mechanisms is paramount. Black adolescents (Mage = 15.5) and their mothers (Mage = 44) were observed discussing a hypothetical discriminatory situation and surveyed about their discriminatory experiences (N = 110). Results indicated that adolescents’ submissive emotional reactivity (e.g., sadness, embarrassment) in direct response to discrimination, rather than dominant reactivity (e.g., anger, frustration), was the primary mechanism explaining the link between discrimination and internalizing and externalizing symptoms. Maternal advocacy combined with high levels of dyadic warmth and emotion expression reduced girls’ submissive reactivity, whereas a more directive “no‐nonsense” advocacy approach reduced boys’ submissive reactivity. Findings demonstrate how racial socialization can disrupt the pain of discrimination.
Acquired angioedema in B cell lymphoproliferative disease: A retrospective case series
Authors: Wonnaparhown Alex , Stefanovic Alexandra , Lugar Patricia , Hostetler Haley P
Published: September 2021

Acquired angioedema due to C1-inhibitor (C1-INH) deficiency (AAE-C1-INH) is rare and is associated with underlying lymphoproliferative diseases. C1-INH deficiency may be due to neoplastic over-consumption of C1-INH and the generation of anti-C1-INH autoantibodies. Uncovering an occult malignancy can lead to earlier oncology referral and improvement of angioedema after treatment of the underlying lymphoproliferative disorder. We characterized seven patients with C1-INH-AAE that highlights the importance of recognizing the association between C1-INH-AAE and underlying malignancy. In acute attacks, patients may be resistant to C1-INH therapy due to the presence of anti-C1-INH autoantibodies or rapid complement consumption, and may respond better to icatibant or ecallantide, which directly affect bradykinin. Treatment of the underlying malignancy also improves AAE-C1-INH symptoms and supports the role of lymphoproliferative B cells in AAE-C1-INH pathophysiology. Monitoring levels of C4, C1-INH function and level, and C1q may be predictive of AAE-C1-INH control and be used as surrogates for treatment efficacy. With close monitoring, low-dose danazol can be effective for long-term prophylaxis. Annual evaluation in AAE-C1-INH is recommended if an underlying malignancy is not found, as angioedema may precede the development of malignancy by several years. Our single-center study has aided in standardization of comprehensive AAE-C1-INH diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring strategies towards future therapeutic clinical trials.
Effect of different dental implant drilling template designs on heat generation during osteotomy – an in vitro study
Authors: Waltenberger Lukas , Wied Stephanie , Wolfart Stefan , Tuna Taskin
Published: September 2021

Objectives

This in vitro study examined the effect of different implant drilling template designs on heat generation during osteotomy and on cooling fluid distribution.

Material and methods

Five different template designs were investigated in a standardized setup against a control group and a negative control group: Occlusal‐splint‐design (OSD), OSD‐covering, OSD‐lateral opening, Bar design, and Orientation template. Pilot and one consecutive drill were run at 800 rpm with external irrigation and 2‐kg load. Thermocouples recorded temperature changes at depths of 3, 6, and 9 mm in a bovine rib model. In the second experimental setup, the drill channel of one rib sample was perforated, and the irrigation volume passing through the drill channel was collected separately over time.

Results

Following mean temperature rises occurred [in °C]: control, 4.9; negative control, 12; OSD, 5.6; OSD‐covering, 4.7; OSD‐lateral opening, 3.8; Bar design, 5.1; and Orientation template, 4.9. The highest temperature increases were found at a drilling depth of 6 mm (p < .006). The 2.2‐mm drill resulted in a significantly higher temperature rise than the 2.8‐mm drill (p < .001). The mean volume (ml/min) of irrigation through the drill channel was Control group‐flow, 28.5; OSD, 4.1; OSD‐covering, 2; OSD‐lateral opening; 5.8; bar design, 4; and Orientation template, 24.1.

Conclusion

Within the limitations, it was shown that fully guided drilling templates reduce the amount of cooling liquid at the point of osteotomy. The template design had an influence on the effective volume of the cooling liquid. However, this did not seem to increase the intraosseous temperature significantly.
Analysis of the Korean generic medicine market: Factors affecting the market share of generic medicines
Authors: Kim Dong‐Sook , Shin Jihye , Chung Jusun
Published: September 2021

This study probed the market share of generic medicines by patients’ age and sex, type of medical facilities, route of administration, number of generic brands, market size (drug expenditure), and therapeutic class and investigated factors associated with a high market share of generic medicines in Korea. We analyzed using national health insurance data between 2010 and 2019. The dependent variable was the generic medicine market share, measured as the number of prescriptions and expenditures. Multivariable regression analysis was conducted using the numbers of generic brands, market size by each ingredient and therapeutic class, relative price, the number of prescriptions, and therapeutic class. Total pharmaceutical expenditures have increased due to the high use of single‐source drugs. The number of prescriptions and expenditures for generic medicines were 0.3 billion prescriptions and $7.8 billion, respectively, accounting for 46.5% and 46% of the total market. Multivariate analysis showed that the number of prescriptions (>20 thousand) and the market size of main active ingredients (>$1 million) were associated with an increased market share, whereas the number of generic brands (compared to <3) was associated with reduced generic medicine market share. In conclusion, we found that supply policies to promote the market entry of generic medicines by mandating price consistency between generic medicines and off‐patent original medicines had limitations in increasing the generic medicine market share. Policy should be put in place both to ensure the timely market entry of generic medicines and to promote the use of cheaper generic medicines.
Ethnic diversity in German dermatology textbooks: Does it exist and is it important? A mini review
Authors: Gregersen Deborah Maria , Elsner Peter
Published: September 2021

Recently published research has detected discrepancies in medical care as a result of skin color in Anglo‐American countries. This was partly attributed to the fact that medical and dermatological specialist training textbooks were found to consist of examples and material that could be classified as more than 90 % white and fair skin (Fitzpatrick’s skin types I–III), including pictures in textbooks and scientific literature used as standard reference works. This systematic review reveals similar findings for German dermatological textbooks and consequently gives rise to the question of whether current medical training and practice in Germany adequately meets the needs of a population that is becoming ever more diverse.
Visual speech differentially modulates beta, theta, and high gamma bands in auditory cortex
Authors: Karthik G. , Plass John , Beltz Adriene M. , Liu Zhongming , Grabowecky Marcia , Suzuki Satoru , Stacey William C. , Wasade Vibhangini S. , Towle Vernon L. , Tao James X. , Wu Shasha , Issa Naoum P. , Brang David
Published: September 2021

Speech perception is a central component of social communication. Although principally an auditory process, accurate speech perception in everyday settings is supported by meaningful information extracted from visual cues. Visual speech modulates activity in cortical areas subserving auditory speech perception including the superior temporal gyrus (STG). However, it is unknown whether visual modulation of auditory processing is a unitary phenomenon or, rather, consists of multiple functionally distinct processes. To explore this question, we examined neural responses to audiovisual speech measured from intracranially implanted electrodes in 21 patients with epilepsy. We found that visual speech modulated auditory processes in the STG in multiple ways, eliciting temporally and spatially distinct patterns of activity that differed across frequency bands. In the theta band, visual speech suppressed the auditory response from before auditory speech onset to after auditory speech onset (−93 to 500 ms) most strongly in the posterior STG. In the beta band, suppression was seen in the anterior STG from −311 to −195 ms before auditory speech onset and in the middle STG from −195 to 235 ms after speech onset. In high gamma, visual speech enhanced the auditory response from −45 to 24 ms only in the posterior STG. We interpret the visual‐induced changes prior to speech onset as reflecting crossmodal prediction of speech signals. In contrast, modulations after sound onset may reflect a decrease in sustained feedforward auditory activity. These results are consistent with models that posit multiple distinct mechanisms supporting audiovisual speech perception.
Blue revitalization or dispossession? Reform of common resource management in Japanese small‐scale fisheries
Authors: Ganseforth Sonja
Published: September 2021

Based on in‐depth anthropological field research in rural Japan, this paper analyses the ongoing reform of Japanese fishery governance and its social and environmental justice implications, as globally proliferating discourses on the ‘blue economy’ and ‘blue growth’ are driving the enclosure of one of the last vestiges of natural resource commons in small‐scale fisheries. Coastal fisheries in Japan are often idealized as one of the last bastions of resource co‐management in an industrialized country, with local cooperatives collectively controlling territorial fishing rights. However, demographic change, declining profitability, and dwindling resource stocks are challenging their viability. Reform of the fishery law, designed to stimulate new growth and industrialization – particularly in aquaculture – includes the opening up of coastal fishery resources to corporate investors, the strengthening of top‐down regulation, and the introduction of individual fishing quotas (IQ). The desire to boost domestic seafood production also has to be seen within the context of the double anxiety of high dependency on international trade for foodstuff and of Japan's vanishing rurality. This emphasis on private capital and presupposed economic and scientific rationality builds on the same rationale of blue economy and blue growth discourses, which promise financial along with ecological returns on large‐scale investments in sustainable ocean economies. Growth‐oriented reform in Japan now imperils successful resource co‐management in coastal small‐scale fisheries. Its analysis therefore offers deeper insights into the transformative as well as dispossessive potential of the global paradigmatic shift towards an intensified industrial exploitation of the oceans. The question of social and environmental justice is central in the re‐allocation of access rights to ocean spaces and resources and the re‐arrangement of decision‐making processes in fishery governance, as local fishing communities face a very real threat of dispossession and disempowerment.
Modelling the influenza disease burden in people aged 50–64 and ≥65 years in Australia
Authors: Moa Aye M. , Menzies Robert I. , Yin J. Kevin , MacIntyre C. Raina
Published: September 2021

Background

Estimation of influenza disease burden is necessary to monitor the impact of intervention programmes. This study aims to estimate the attributable fraction of respiratory and circulatory disease due to influenza among Australian adults 50–64 and ≥65 years of age.

Methods

A semi‐parametric generalised‐additive model was used to estimate annual and average rate of influenza‐attributable hospitalisation and death per 100,000 population under the principal diagnosis of influenza/pneumonia, respiratory, circulatory and myocardial infarction (MI) from 2001 through 2017.

Results

Over the study period, seasonal influenza accounted for an estimated annual average respiratory hospitalisation rate of 78.9 (95%CI: 76.3, 81.4) and 287.5 (95%CI: 279.8, 295.3) per 100,000 population in adults aged 50–64 and ≥65 years, respectively. The corresponding respiratory mortality rates were 0.9 (95%CI: 0.7, 1.2) and 18.2 (95%CI: 16.9, 19.4) per 100,000 population. The 2017 season had the highest influenza‐attributable respiratory hospitalisations in both age groups, and respiratory complications were estimated approximately 2.5 times higher than the average annual estimate in adults aged ≥65 years in 2017. For mortality, on average, influenza attributed 1,080 circulatory and 361 MI deaths in adults aged ≥65 years per year. Influenza accounted for 1% and 2.8% of total MI deaths in adults aged 50–64 and ≥65 years, respectively.

Conclusion

Rates of cardiorespiratory morbidity and mortality were high in older adults, whilst the younger age group contributed a lower disease burden. Extension of influenza vaccination programme beyond the targeted population could be an alternative strategy to reduce the burden of influenza.
Chemo‐mechanical properties of carbon fiber reinforced geopolymer interphase
Authors: Hajimohammadi Ailar , Masoumi Saeed , Kim Taehwan , McCaslin Eric , Alnahhal Mohammed Fouad , Almer Jonathan D. , White Claire E.
Published: September 2021

Geopolymers, as a potentially environmentally friendly alternative to Portland cement, are increasingly attracting attention in the construction industry. Various methods have been applied for customizing the properties of geopolymers and improving their commercial viability. One of the promising methods for refining the properties of geopolymers such as their toughness is the use of short fibers. The effectiveness of a high‐strength short fiber in the geopolymer matrix is largely dependent on the interfacial bonding between the fiber and its surrounding matrix. While the importance of this interfacial chemistry is highlighted in the literature, the characteristics of this bonding structure have not been fully understood. In this paper, we aim to investigate the bonding mechanism between the carbon fiber and metakaolin‐based geopolymer matrix. For the first time, the existence and nature of the chemical bonding at the interfacial region (interphase) between carbon fiber and geopolymer matrix has been revealed. X‐ray pair distribution function computed tomography (PDF‐CT), field emission‐scanning electron microscopy imaging, and nanoindentation techniques are employed to discern the chemo‐mechanical properties of the interphase. PDF‐CT results show the emergence of a new atom–atom correlation at the interfacial region (around 1.82 Å). This correlation is a characteristic of interfacial bonding between the fiber and its surrounding matrix, where the existence of chemical linkages (potentially VAl‐O‐C) between fibers and the matrix contributes to the adhesion between the two constituents making up the composite. Due to such chemical bonding, the nanomechanical properties of the interfacial region fall between that of the carbon fiber and geopolymer. The combination of advanced techniques is proved useful for enhancing our understanding of the interfacial chemistry between fibers and the binding matrix. This level of knowledge facilitates the engineering of composite systems through the manipulation of their nanostructure.
The use of theory in qualitative research: Challenges, development of a framework and exemplar
Authors: Nguyen Thi Ngoc Minh , Whitehead Lisa , Dermody Gordana , Saunders Rosemary
Published: September 2021

Background

Whilst theoretical grounding is considered important for sound research methodology, consensus on the application of theory in qualitative research remains elusive. Novice researchers may experience challenges in applying theory in qualitative research and these may contribute to the under‐use, over‐reliance or inappropriate application of theory. Practical guidance on how theory can inform and guide the conduct of qualitative research is needed.

Purpose

The purpose of this paper was to propose a framework for the application of theory in qualitative research and provide an exemplar.

Methods

The Theoretical Application Framework for Qualitative Studies (TAF‐QS) was developed from the synthesis of existing literature and the authors' own experience of the application of theory.

Results

The TAF‐QS encourages researchers to articulate which theoretical framework or conceptional framework they are drawing on and how this will be applied by reflecting on the purpose and the context of the study.

Conclusion

The TAF‐QS provides support for researchers to explore how theory can be applied and how to achieve this in qualitative research.

Tweetable abstract

The use of theory in qualitative research.
Efficacy and tolerability of quinidine as salvage therapy for monomorphic ventricular tachycardia in patients with structural heart disease
Authors: Deshmukh Amrish , Larson John , Ghannam Michael , Saeed Mohammed , Cunnane Ryan , Ghanbari Hamid , Latchamsetty Rakesh , Crawford Thomas , Jongnarangsin Krit , Pelosi Frank , Chugh Aman , Oral Hakan , Morady Fred , Bogun Frank , Liang Jackson J.
Published: September 2021

Introduction

Quinidine is an effective therapy for a subset of polymorphic ventricular tachycardia and ventricular fibrillation (VF) syndromes; however, the efficacy of quinidine in scar‐related monomorphic ventricular tachycardia (MMVT) is unclear.

Methods and Results

Between 2009 and 2020 a single VT referral center, a total of 23 patients with MMVT and structural heart disease (age 66.7 ± 10.9, 20 males, 15 with ischemic cardiomyopathy, mean LVEF 22.2 ± 12.3%, 9 with left ventricular assist device [LVAD]) were treated with quinidine (14 quinidine gluconate; 996 ± 321 mg, 8 quinidine sulfate; 1062 ± 588 mg). Quinidine was used in combination with other antiarrhythmics (AAD) in 19 (13 also on amiodarone). All patients previously failed >1 AAD (amiodarone 100%, mexiletine 73%, sotalol 32%, other 32%) and eight had prior ablations (median of 1.5). Quinidine was initiated in the setting of VT storm despite AADs (6), inability to tolerate other AADs (4), or recurrent VT(12). Ventricular arrhythmias recurred despite quinidine in 13 (59%) patients at a median of 26 (4–240) days after quinidine initiation. In patients with recurrent MMVT, VT cycle length increased from 359 to 434 ms (p = .02). Six (27.3%) patients remained on quinidine at 1 year with recurrence of ventricular arrhythmias in all. The following adverse effects were seen: gastrointestinal side effects (6), QT prolongation (2), rash (1), thrombocytopenia (1), neurologic side effects (1). One patient discontinued due to cost.

Conclusion

Quinidine therapy has limited tolerability and long‐term efficacy when used in the management of amiodarone‐refractory scar‐related MMVT.
Addictions in patients with atopic dermatitis: a cross‐sectional pilot study in Germany
Authors: Pilz A.C. , Durner V. , Schielein M.C. , Schuster B. , Beckmann J. , Biedermann T. , Eyerich K. , Zink A.
Published: September 2021

Background

Atopic dermatitis (AD) is the most common chronic inflammatory skin disease worldwide and displays many atopic, but also non‐atopic comorbidities. Among the latter, mental health disorders such as depression have been extensively studied. However, data on addictions are still rare.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess the prevalence of different kinds of addictions in adult AD patients using a single‐centre approach.

Methods

This non‐interventional cross‐sectional study was performed from 03/2020 to 05/2020 at the Department of Dermatology of a large German university hospital. Participants with a diagnosis of AD confirmed by a dermatologist answered questions about disease severity (patient‐oriented eczema measure, POEM), quality of life (Dermatology Life Quality Index, DLQI) and smoking habits. They were screened for problematic alcohol consumption, drug abuse, internet addiction and pathological gambling using internationally established and validated questionnaires.

Results

157 patients (56.1% female; mean age of 49.9 ± 20.4) with an average POEM of 13.7 ± 7.5 and DLQI of 6.1 ± 5.4 were evaluated. 14.1% were identified as regular smokers, 12.1% screened positive for alcohol dependency, 6.4% for drug use disorders, 4.5% for Internet addiction and 3.2% for pathological gambling. Co‐occurrences of different addictions were observed, and a positive correlation was noted between DLQI scores and smoking.

Conclusions

In summary, this study hints at elevated positive screening rates for problematic alcohol consumption, drug use disorders, Internet addiction and problem gambling compared with the general population. Screening routinely for addictions may improve patient‐centred health care of AD patients.
Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate exhibits anti‐inflammatory effects in a human interface dermatitis model—implications for therapy
Authors: Braegelmann C. , Niebel D. , Ferring‐Schmitt S. , Fetter T. , Landsberg J. , Hölzel M. , Effern M. , Glodde N. , Steinbuch S. , Bieber T. , Wenzel J.
Published: September 2021

Background

Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) has been proven effective in treating viral warts. Since anticarcinogenic as well as anti‐inflammatory properties are ascribed to the substance, its use has been evaluated in the context of different dermatoses. The effect of EGCG on interface dermatitis (ID), however, has not yet been explored.

Objectives

In this study, we investigated the effect of EGCG on an epidermal human in vitro model of ID.

Methods

Via immunohistochemistry, lesional skin of lichen planus patients and healthy skin were analysed concerning the intensity of interferon‐associated mediators, CXCL10 and MxA. Epidermal equivalents were stained analogously upon ID‐like stimulation and EGCG treatment. Monolayer keratinocytes were treated likewise and supernatants were analysed via ELISA while cells were processed for vitality assay or transcriptomic analysis.

Results

CXCL10 and MxA are strongly expressed in lichen planus lesions and induced in keratinocytes upon ID‐like stimulation. EGCG reduces CXCL10 and MxA staining intensity in epidermis equivalents and CXCL10 secretion by keratinocytes upon stimulation. It furthermore minimizes the cytotoxic effect of the stimulus and downregulates a magnitude of typical pro‐inflammatory cytokines that are crucial for the perpetuation of ID.

Conclusions

We provide evidence concerning anti‐inflammatory effects of EGCG within a human in vitro model of ID. The capacity to suppress mediators that are centrally involved in disease perpetuation suggests EGCG as a potential topical therapeutic in lichen planus and other autoimmune skin diseases associated with ID.
Managing automation in teams
Authors: Dogan Mustafa , Yildirim Pinar
Published: September 2021

In this paper, we study a principal's decision to introduce automation into a production process governed by a team of employees. When introduced, automation displaces an employee with a machine. This displacement increases efficiency as the machine carries out the tasks of the employee at a lower cost, and reduces the scope of moral hazard as the machine does not make unobserved effort choices. We show that, despite the direct benefits, a principal may prefer not to adopt automation due to its indirect costs. Before automation is introduced, the principal is able to take advantage of her ability to shape the interactions between the team members to manage the agency problem. Automation eliminates this ability and removes an incentive device at the principal's discretion, resulting in an indirect cost. On the one hand, adopting automation is always optimal when the principal incentivizes employees independently, abstaining from creating a team interaction. On the other hand, automation may be suboptimal when the principal incentivizes employees by encouraging them to compete via a “relative performance evaluation” contract or to cooperate via a “joint performance evaluation” contract. We offer two extensions to test the robustness of these findings qualitatively. First, the findings carry through if we consider alternative effects of automation, where it impacts employees symmetrically without displacing any employee. Second, the findings also remain consistent when there are synergies between the efforts of team members.
The place of B‐mode ultrasonography, shear‐wave elastography, and superb microvascular imaging in the pre‐diagnosis of androgenetic alopecia
Authors: Ten Barış , Kaya Tamer İrfan , Balcı Yüksel , Esen Kaan , Temel Gülhan , Türsen Ümit , Yılmaz Mustafa Anıl
Published: September 2021

Purpose

Androgenetic alopecia (AGA) is the most common cause of hair loss in males. Physical examination and history are the most important examinations in diagnosis of the disease. As yet, there is no diagnostic method to be able to determine which individuals will develop AGA. Shear‐wave elastography (SWE) is a novel diagnostic tool, which can evaluate tissue stiffness. Superb microvascular imaging (SMI) can determine low flow in microvessels. The aim of the current study was to determine whether or not AGA would develop in individuals with normal hair and a family history of AGA using B‐mode US, SMI, and SWE.

Methods

The study included 26 patients clinically diagnosed with AGA and a control group of 26 volunteers.

Results

Thickness with the distance from the epidermis to the calvarium (ECD) on the hairline and cranial subcutaneous tissue thickness (CSTD) were determined to be statistically significantly thinner in the AGA group than in the control group (p < 0.0001). For the differentiation of the AGA patients, the cutoff value was determined to be 5.5 mm for ECD and 4.05 mm for CSTD. The cranial epidermis‐dermis (CED) stiffness values both as meter/second (m/s) and kilopascals (kPa) were statistically significantly lower in the AGA patients than in the control group (p < 0.0001). The cutoff values were 6.075 as m/s and 104.4 as kPa.

Conclusions

The results of this study demonstrated that differentiation could be made of individuals before the development of AGA from normal healthy individuals with CSTD measurement on B‐mode US and CED stiffness measurement on SWE.
Molecular mechanism in trigeminal nerve and treatment methods related to orthodontic pain
Authors: Tang Ziwei , Zhou Jiawei , Long Hu , Gao Yanzi , Wang Qingxuan , Li Xiaolong , Wang Yan , Lai Wenli , Jian Fan
Published: September 2021

Background

Orthodontic treatment is the main treatment approach for malocclusion. Orthodontic pain is an inevitable undesirable adverse reaction during orthodontic treatment. It is reported orthodontic pain has become one of the most common reason that patients withdraw from orthodontic treatment. Therefore, understanding the underlying mechanism and finding treatment of orthodontic pain are in urgent need.

Aims

This article aims to sort out the mechanisms and treatments of orthodontic pain, hoping to provide some ideas for future orthodontic pain relief.

Materials

Tooth movement will cause local inflammation. Certain inflammatory factors and cytokines stimulating the trigeminal nerve and further generating pain perception, as well as drugs and molecular targeted therapy blocking nerve conduction pathways, will be reviewed in this article.

Method

We review and summaries current studies related to molecular mechanisms and treatment approaches in orthodontic pain control.

Results

Orthodontics pain related influencing factors and molecular mechanisms has been introduced. Commonly used clinical methods in orthodontic pain control has been evaluated.

Discussion

With the clarification of more molecular mechanisms, the direction of orthodontic pain treatment will shift to targeted drugs.
Melatonin pretreatment alleviates the long‐term synaptic toxicity and dysmyelination induced by neonatal Sevoflurane exposure via MT1 receptor‐mediated Wnt signaling modulation
Authors: Liang Lirong , Zeng Tian , Zhao Youyi , Lu Rui , Guo Baolin , Xie Rougang , Tang Wenjing , Zhang Li , Mao Zirui , Yang Xinyu , Wu Shengxi , Wang Yazhou , Zhang Hui
Published: September 2021

Sevoflurane (Sev) is one of the most widely used pediatric anesthetics. The major concern of neonatal repeated application of Sev is its potential long‐term impairment of cognition and learning/memory, for which there still lacks effective treatment. At the cellular level, Sev exerts toxic effects in multiple aspects, making it difficult for effective interference. Melatonin is a pineal hormone regulated by and feedbacks to biological rhythm at physiological condition. Recent studies have revealed significant neuroprotective effects of exogenous melatonin or its agonists under various pathological conditions. Whether melatonin could prevent the long‐term toxicity of Sev remains elusive. Here, we report that neonatal repeated Sev exposure up‐regulated MT1 receptor in hippocampal neurons and oligodendrocytes. Pretreatment with melatonin significantly alleviated Sev‐induced synaptic deficiency, dysmyelination, and long‐term learning impairment. Both MT1‐shRNA and MT1 knockout effectively blocked the protective effects of melatonin on synaptic development, myelination, and behavior performance. Interestingly, long‐lasting suppression of Wnt signaling, instead of cAMP/PKA signaling, was observed in hippocampal neurons and oligodendrocytes after neonatal Sev exposure. Pharmacologically activating Wnt signaling rescued both the long‐term synaptic deficits and dysmyelination induced by Sev. Further analysis showed that MT1 receptor co‐expressed well with β‐catenin and Axin2 and bound to β‐catenin by its C‐terminal. Melatonin pretreatment effectively rescued Sev‐induced Wnt suppression. Wnt signaling inhibitor XAV939 significantly compromised the protective effects of melatonin. Taken together, our data demonstrated a beneficial effect of melatonin pretreatment on the long‐term synaptic impairment and dysmyelination induced by neonatal Sev exposure, and a novel MT1 receptor‐mediated interaction between melatonin and canonical Wnt signaling, indicating that melatonin may be clinically applied for improving the safety of pediatric Sev anesthesia.
Design thinking as sensemaking: Developing a pragmatist theory of practice to (re)introduce sensibility
Authors: Rylander Eklund Anna , Navarro Aguiar Ulises , Amacker Ariana
Published: September 2021

Design thinking is based on designers’ creative ways of working and is defined as a formal method for creative problem solving aimed at fostering innovation by harnessing “the designer's sensibility and methods.” The basic premise is that design “thinking” can be extracted and separated from the situated practice of designing in the studio. This approach has given rise to a widely accepted nomenclature for describing design which has improved communication between designers and managers, leading to massive interest in adoption of design thinking in management settings. However, due to a widespread implicit cognitivism in the literature, scholars find it difficult to explain the cultural and experiential qualities of design thinking and it tends to be presented as a fundamentally cognitive, problem‐solving activity. We argue that these cognitivist tendencies preclude proper attention to and theorization of designers’ creative practice. We contend that the absence of a theory of practice prevents a deeper understanding of the contribution of design thinking to innovation, loses sight of the sensibility on which it relies, and hampers realization of the promise of design thinking. We develop an alternative theoretical perspective, grounded in a pragmatist theory of practice and the studio culture from which designers’ creative practice developed. This theoretical perspective allows design thinking to be understood as sensemaking, foregrounds imagination and improvisation as its core activities, and explains how sensibility is developed and nurtured. We review the design thinking literature through this pragmatist lens and discuss the implications for theory and practice of conceptualizing design thinking as sensemaking.
Sleep and affect in adolescents: Bidirectional daily associations over 28‐day ecological momentary assessment
Authors: Shen Lin , Wiley Joshua F. , Bei Bei
Published: September 2021

We examined bidirectional, temporal associations between daily sleep and affect under naturally restricted (school) and unrestricted (vacation) sleep opportunities, while incorporating valence (positive/negative) and arousal (high/low) dimensions of affect. Sleep and affect were measured over 2 weeks of school and 2 weeks of vacation in 205 adolescents (54.1% females, Mage = 16.9 years), providing 5,231 days of data. Total sleep time and sleep efficiency were measured using actigraphy and sleep diary. High‐ and low‐arousal positive and negative affect were self‐reported each afternoon. Between‐ and within‐person sleep–affect associations were tested using cross‐lagged, multilevel models. Lagged outcome, day of the week, study day and socio‐demographics were controlled. Bidirectional associations between self‐report sleep and affect were found between‐persons: longer self‐report total sleep time associated with lower high‐ and low‐arousal negative affect. Higher high‐arousal positive affect associated with longer actigraphy total sleep time between‐persons, but predicted shorter same‐night actigraphy total sleep time within‐persons. Results did not differ between school and vacation. Significant within‐person random effects demonstrate individual differences in daily sleep–affect associations. Associations differed based on sleep measurement and affect dimensions, highlighting the complex sleep–affect relationship. Strong between‐person associations between self‐report sleep and affect suggest improving either sleep or mood may benefit the other; alternatively, addressing a common cause may lead to changes in both sleep and affect. Although overall high‐arousal positive affect was protective of sleep duration, on a day‐to‐day basis, higher‐than‐usual high‐arousal positive affect may reduce sleep duration on nights it is experienced. Further research needs to identify causes of individual differences in sleep–affect associations.
Acute Delta Hepatitis in Italy spanning three decades (1991–2019): Evidence for the effectiveness of the hepatitis B vaccination campaign
Authors: Stroffolini Tommaso , Morisco Filomena , Ferrigno Luigina , Pontillo Giuseppina , Iantosca Giuseppina , Cossiga Valentina , Crateri Simonetta , Tosti Maria Elena ,   the SEIEVA collaborating group
Published: September 2021

Updated incidence data of acute Delta virus hepatitis (HDV) are lacking worldwide. Our aim was to evaluate incidence of and risk factors for acute HDV in Italy after the introduction of the compulsory vaccination against hepatitis B virus (HBV) in 1991. Data were obtained from the National Surveillance System of acute viral hepatitis (SEIEVA). Independent predictors of HDV were assessed by logistic‐regression analysis. The incidence of acute HDV per 1‐million population declined from 3.2 cases in 1987 to 0.04 in 2019, parallel to that of acute HBV per 100,000 from 10.0 to 0.39 cases during the same period. The median age of cases increased from 27 years in the decade 1991–1999 to 44 years in the decade 2010–2019 (p < .001). Over the same period, the male/female ratio decreased from 3.8 to 2.1, the proportion of coinfections increased from 55% to 75% (p = .003) and that of HBsAg positive acute hepatitis tested for by IgM anti‐HDV linearly decreased from 50.1% to 34.1% (p < .001). People born abroad accounted for 24.6% of cases in 2004–2010 and 32.1% in 2011–2019. In the period 2010–2019, risky sexual behaviour (O.R. 4.2; 95%CI: 1.4–12.8) was the sole independent predictor of acute HDV; conversely intravenous drug use was no longer associated (O.R. 1.25; 95%CI: 0.15–10.22) with this. In conclusion, HBV vaccination was an effective measure to control acute HDV. Intravenous drug use is no longer an efficient mode of HDV spread. Testing for IgM‐anti HDV is a grey area requiring alert. Acute HDV in foreigners should be monitored in the years to come.
Choledochal stenting for treatment of extrahepatic biliary obstruction in cats
Authors: Griffin Maureen A. , Culp William T. N. , Giuffrida Michelle A. , Selmic Laura E. , Denitz Jordan C. , Perry James A. , Schoelkopf Alexander C. , Milovancev Milan , Phillips Heidi , Wallace Mandy L. , Steffey Michele A. , Balsa Ingrid M. , Mayhew Philipp D.
Published: September 2021

Background

Limited information currently exists regarding the clinical progression and outcomes of cats that undergo choledochal stenting as a treatment for extrahepatic biliary obstruction (EHBO).

Hypothesis/Objectives

Describe clinical characteristics, indications for choledochal stent placement, procedure, and outcomes in a cohort of cats undergoing choledochal stenting and evaluate risk factors associated with survival as well as recurrence of EHBO in affected cats.

Animals

Twenty‐three client‐owned cats undergoing choledochal stent placement.

Methods

Retrospective study. Medical records from 6 academic institutions were reviewed, and data were extracted and analyzed statistically.

Results

Median age of cats was 10.1 years (range, 2‐16), and all cats had at least 2 clinical signs. Most common clinical signs were vomiting in 20/22 (90.9%), inappetence in 19/22 (86.4%), and lethargy in 19/23 (82.6%). Procedural complications were uncommon and rarely related to the stenting procedure. Clinical signs improved postoperatively in 15/20 (75.0%) cats and serum total bilirubin concentration decreased postoperatively in 13/19 (68.4%) cats. Eighteen (78.3%) cats survived to discharge. Recurrence of EHBO was documented in 7/18 (38.9%) cats that survived to discharge. Cholelithiasis was associated with recurrence of EHBO. Median survival time for cats that survived to discharge was 931 days (range, 19‐3034). Absence of peritoneal effusion was associated with survival to discharge.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Choledochal stenting was an effective treatment modality in cats with EHBO with few procedural complications and potential for prolonged survival, but substantial risk for recurrence of EHBO was identified.
Bioleaching of tellurium from mine tailings by indigenous Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans
Authors: Zhan Y. , Shen X. , Chen M. , Yang K. , Xie H.
Published: September 2021

Tellurium (Te) is a scarce and valuable metalloid, which can be found in some mine tailings. In this work, an indigenous Acidithiobacillus ferrooxidans strain was used to leach Te from mine tailings collected in the Shimian Te mine region, China. Under the optimized conditions of initial pH of 2·0, pulp density of 4% and temperature of 30°C, 47·77% of Te can be dissolved after 24 days of bioleaching. The leaching of Te by different systems such as bioleaching, Ferric ion (Fe(III)) leaching and acid leaching was compared. The results showed that the leaching behaviour of Te is similar to that of sulphur in sulphide minerals, that is, Fe(III) first oxidizes telluride (Te(-II)) in minerals to elemental Te, and then elemental Te can be oxidized by bacteria to Te(IV) and Te(VI). Besides, it was also showed by scanning electron microscope observation and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis of the ore sample before and after bioleaching that some bedded structure covered on the surface of the ore after bioleaching acting as a reaction compartment, and the changing of active groups indicated a possible attachment between bacteria and ore. There is an indirect mechanism involved in bioleaching of Te.
Caesarean section and obesity in young adult offspring: Update of a systematic review with meta‐analysis
Authors: Quecke Berenike , Graf Yannick , Epure Adina‐Mihaela , Santschi Valérie , Chiolero Arnaud , Carmeli Cristian , Cullati Stéphane
Published: September 2021

As compared with vaginal delivery (VD), caesarean section (CS) birth could be associated with increased risk of obesity in young adult offspring. We aimed to evaluate this association by updating data from a systematic review with meta‐analysis of observational studies. From 3774 records identified in PubMed and Embase, we retained six studies and added five studies from the last systematic review, for a total of 11 studies. Crude estimates of the association were retrieved from nine cohort studies (n = 143,869), and maximally adjusted estimates were retrieved from eight cohort studies. Young adults born by CS had higher risk of obesity (body mass index [BMI] ≥ 30 kg/m2) than young adults born by VD, corresponding to a crude pooled risk ratio (RR) of 1.30 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.13 to 1.50] and a maximally adjusted pooled RR of 1.22 [95% CI 1.02 to 1.46]. In a sensitivity analysis pooling, five studies that included maternal prepregnancy BMI, a major potential confounding factor, in the set of controlled covariates, the RR was 1.08 [95% CI 0.92 to 1.27]. We concluded that the association between CS and obesity in young adulthood was mostly explained by confounding from maternal prepregnancy BMI.