bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What is in the Neuromuscular Junction Literature?
Authors: Al-Lahham Tawfiq , Lacomis David
Published: May 2022

This update covers a number of treatment topics starting with Fc receptor inhibitors and the Federal Drug Administration approval of efgartigimod. Some uncertainties regarding the use of corticosteroids are addressed, namely the risk of exacerbation with initiation of treatment and how to taper. The presence and potential importance of antibody overshoot following plasmapheresis is noted and the evolving increase in usefulness of acetylcholine receptor antibodies in diagnosing ocular myasthenia. Several recent series and case reports regarding coronavirus 2019 and myasthenia gravis are reviewed. The topics of myasthenia gravis and pregnancy, and another look at thymectomy in MG are provided. Finally, a couple of case reports on Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome concentrate on the ice pack test and an autoantibody association with paraneoplastic cerebellar degeneration and Lambert–Eaton myasthenic syndrome in the same patient.
Dissemination and Use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound by Pediatricians in Europe
Authors: Parri Niccolò , Berant Ron , Giacalone Martina , Jones Sarah Dianne , Friedman Nir ,   the REPEM POCUS collaboration
Published: May 2022

Objective

We surveyed the dissemination and use of point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS), physician training levels, and barriers and limitations to use of POCUS among pediatricians and pediatric emergency medicine (PEM) physicians across Europe and Israel.

Methods

A questionnaire was distributed through the PEM section of the European Society for Emergency Medicine and the Research in European Pediatric Emergency Medicine Network.

Results

A total of 581 physicians from 22 countries fully completed the questionnaire. Participants were primarily pediatric attending physicians (34.9% [203 of 581]) and PEM attending physicians (28.6% [166 of 581]). Most of the respondents, 58.5% (340 of 581), reported using POCUS in their practice, and 61.9% (359/581) had undergone POCUS training. Point-of-care ultrasound courses represented the most common method of becoming proficient in POCUS. Overall, the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma scan was the mostly taught application, with 76.3% (274 of 359). Resuscitative, diagnostic, and procedural POCUS were rated as very useful or useful by the most of respondents.

The lack of qualified personnel to train (76.9% [447 of 581]), and the insufficient time for physicians to learn, POCUS (63.7% [370 of 581]) were identified as the main limitations to POCUS implementation.

Conclusions

The dissemination of pediatric POCUS in the European and Israeli centers we surveyed is limited, and its applications are largely restricted to the Focused Assessment with Sonography in Trauma examination. This is likely related to lack of training programs. In contrast, the potential value of use of POCUS in PEM practice is recognized by the majority of respondents.
Advertising cooperative phenotype through costly signals facilitates collective action
Authors: Lang Martin , Chvaja Radim , Grant Purzycki Benjamin , Václavík David , Staněk Rostislav
Published: May 2022

Around the world, people engage in practices that involve self-inflicted pain and apparently wasted resources. Researchers theorized that these practices help stabilize within-group cooperation by assorting individuals committed to collective action. While this proposition was previously studied using existing religious practices, we provide a controlled framework for an experimental investigation of various predictions derived from this theory. We recruited 372 university students in the Czech Republic who were randomly assigned into either a high-cost or low-cost condition and then chose to play a public goods game (PGG) either in a group that wastes money to signal commitment to high contributions in the game or to play in the group without such signals. We predicted that cooperators would assort in the high-cost revealed group and that, despite these costs, they would contribute more to the common pool and earn larger individual rewards over five iterations of PGG compared with the concealed group and participants in the low-cost condition. The results showed that the assortment of cooperators was more effective in the high-cost condition and translated into larger contributions of the remaining endowment to the common pool, but participants in the low-cost revealed group earned the most. We conclude that costly signals can serve as an imperfect assorting mechanism, but the size of the costs needs to be carefully balanced with potential benefits to be profitable.
Human-supervised clustering of multidimensional data using crowdsourcing
Authors: Butyaev Alexander , Drogaris Chrisostomos , Tremblay-Savard Olivier , Waldispühl Jérôme
Published: May 2022

Clustering is a central task in many data analysis applications. However, there is no universally accepted metric to decide the occurrence of clusters. Ultimately, we have to resort to a consensus between experts. The problem is amplified with high-dimensional datasets where classical distances become uninformative and the ability of humans to fully apprehend the distribution of the data is challenged. In this paper, we design a mobile human-computing game as a tool to query human perception for the multidimensional data clustering problem. We propose two clustering algorithms that partially or entirely rely on aggregated human answers and report the results of two experiments conducted on synthetic and real-world datasets. We show that our methods perform on par or better than the most popular automated clustering algorithms. Our results suggest that hybrid systems leveraging annotations of partial datasets collected through crowdsourcing platforms can be an efficient strategy to capture the collective wisdom for solving abstract computational problems.
Year-round at-sea movements of fairy prions from southeastern Australia
Authors: Fromant Aymeric , Eizenberg Yonina H. , Poupart Timothée , Bustamante Paco , Arnould John P. Y.
Published: May 2022

Effective conservation assessments require detailed information of species' ecological niches during the whole annual cycle. For seabirds, this implies investigating the at-sea distribution and foraging behaviour during both the breeding and non-breeding periods. However, until recently, collecting information about small species has been precluded by the excessive size of the required devices. This lack of knowledge is exacerbated in the case of polytypic genera with species sharing very similar appearance and behaviour, such as the super-abundant prions (Pachyptilaspp.). The present study investigates the year-round at-sea distribution and foraging ecology of the fairy prion (Pachyptila turtur) in southeastern Australia. Miniaturized GPS loggers during the breeding season and geolocators (GLS) during the non-breeding period were used over 4 consecutive years (2017–2021), with results that highlight the importance of the continental shelf-edge waters for fairy prions throughout the year. In addition, contrary to previous assumptions, the GLS data revealed an unsuspected post-breeding migration to the waters south of Australia, during which individuals probably undergo a rapid moult of flight feathers. Understanding the at-sea distribution and ecology of prions during the whole annual cycle will be fundamental to their conservation as it can reveal species- or population-specific threats that have been overlooked because of their status as abundant species.
Single photon kilohertz frame rate imaging of neural activity
Authors: Tian Tian , Yuan Yifang , Mitra Srinjoy , Gyongy Istvan , Nolan Matthew F
Published: May 2022

Establishing the biological basis of cognition and its disorders will require high precision spatiotemporal measurements of neural activity. Recently developed genetically encoded voltage indicators (GEVIs) report both spiking and subthreshold activity of identified neurons. However, maximally capitalising on the potential of GEVIs will require imaging at the millisecond time scales, which remains challenging with standard camera systems. Here we report application of single photon avalanche diode (SPAD) sensors to imaging neural activity at kilohertz frame rates. SPADs are electronic devices that when activated by a single photon cause an avalanche of electrons and a large electric current. We use an array of SPAD sensors to image individual neurons expressing genetically encoded voltage indicators. We show that subthreshold and spiking activity can be resolved with shot noise limited signals at frame rates of up to 10 kHz. SPAD imaging was able to reveal millisecond scale synchronisation of neural activity in an ex-vivo seizure model. SPAD sensors may have widespread applications for investigation of millisecond timescale neural dynamics.

Table of contents

The high temporal precision of single photon avalanche diodes (SPADs) is leveraged to record neural activity reported by genetically encoded voltage indicators. Sub-threshold and spiking activity of single neurons was resolved with shot noise limited signals at frame rates of up to 10 kHz. SPAD sensors may have widespread applications for neural imaging at high frame rates.
Synthesis, crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of hexaaquanickel(II) bis(4-hydroxybenzoate) dihydrate
Authors: Ruzmetov Abror , Ibragimov Aziz , Ashurov Jamshid , Boltaeva Zebo , Ibragimov Bakhtiyar , Usmanov Sultan
Published: May 2022

The title compound, [Ni(H2O)6](PHB)2·2H2O (1) (PHB = 4-hydroxybenzoate, C7H5O3), was obtained by the reaction of NiCl2, 4-hydroxybenzoic acid (PHBA) and monoethanolamine in aqueous ethanol solution. The NiII ion is coordinated by six water molecules and is located on an inversion center. The outer coordination sphere in the asymmetric unit comprises one PHB anion and one water molecule, i.e. the compound is a salt and a hydrate consisting of three components. In the crystal, the components are packed into an intermolecular network stabilized by O—H...O hydrogen bonds. A comprehensive Hirshfeld surface analysis was carried out to investigate the intermolecular interactions in detail.
Are competitiveness rankings and institutional measures helping emerging economies to improve?
Authors: Buitrago R. Ricardo E. , Torralba Barreto Daniel Ricardo , Reyes Giovanni E.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Based on the rankings of the global competitiveness index and the fragile states index, this paper aims to suggest alternative approaches to shed some light on the effectiveness of rankings in helping emerging economies improve their competitiveness from an institutional standpoint.

Design/methodology/approach

The statistical analysis consisted of a two-stage analysis; the first stage consisted of constructing an updated Alternative Institutional Quality Index (AIQI), intending to design a comparative measure between dimensions over time. The second stage consisted of evidencing the structure of each of the observed dimensions' variance to evidence the existing changes or gaps of the AIQI and its components. The authors incorporated the Kruskas–Wallis (KW) model to test the results.

Findings

This paper demonstrates that the analyzed countries generally maintain their competitive position, even though changes in their scores are reflected. This makes invisible the development and progress factors generated by the countries that are mainly found with low scores and only reflect stable structures that allow them to maintain their position.

Research limitations/implications

The current study has a limitation because it concentrated on a few selected indicators based on the literature review. The limitations of this research may be overlooked in the future by adding additional variables and observations. The paper could be improved by including intra- and inter-regional approaches to control based on the occurrence of specific circumstances (i.e. informal institutions, economic development or factor endowments).

Practical implications

The paper contributes to the applicable measurement of competitiveness and its structural change over time.

Originality/value

This paper proposed an alternative and simple methodology to assess the evolution of the competitiveness indicators; this methodology could be used to measure structural changes at different levels, which may be an input for the design and implementation of policies to foster competitiveness.
Putting head-worn displays to use for order picking: a most-similar comparative case study
Authors: Bal Michiel , Vermeerbergen Lander , Benders Jos
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to identify why warehouses do or do not succeed in putting to use digital technologies for order picking.

Design/methodology/approach

Building on structuration theory, the authors investigate the situated use of one such a digital technology, more particularly the head-worn display (HWD). Based on a most-similar comparative case study of two Belgian warehouses pioneering HWDs, the authors focus on whether and how order pickers and their manager interact to modify the properties, functionalities, and the context in which the HWD is used.

Findings

In one warehouse, using the HWD was discontinued after implementation. In the other, order pickers and the order pickers' manager succeeded in implementing the HWD into their work. The authors find that the prime explanation for these opposite findings lies in the extent to which order pickers were given room to improve the properties and functionalities of the HWD as well as the conditions that unfold in the HWD's use context. In the latter warehouse, pressing issues were overcome and improvement suggestions were implemented, both regarding the HWD itself as well as regarding the job-related and person-related conditions.

Originality/value

Theoretically, the authors contribute to the situated use of technology stating that (1) giving room to alter the use of digital technologies, and (2) fostering continuous employee participation regarding conditions stemming from the use context are necessary to realize the promising and unexploited potential of digital technology in practice. Empirically, this paper exposes distinct types of interactions that explain whether and how digital technologies, in particular HWDs, are put to use for order picking practices.
Occupant trust in indoor air quality in a large office building after an emergent wildfire
Authors: Kim Amy , Wang Shuoqi , McCunn Lindsay , Bramono Novi T.I.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to establish a reliable scale measuring occupants’ levels of environmental trust in their work settings’ indoor air quality and explore the relationship between occupants’ levels of environmental trust and their perceived control over the air quality in their workspace.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted occupant surveys concerning indoor air quality in an office building, and collected corresponding indoor air quality measurements. Descriptive statistics and correlation analysis results are reported to reveal occupants’ levels of environmental trust and perceived control.

Findings

Results reveal that psychological perceptions of indoor air quality can be quite neutral, even shortly after an extreme wildfire event resulting in very poor air quality in an urban area. Occupants’ sense of trust that their office building could protect them from harmful air outside, and their belief that the building could protect them from seasonal smoky conditions, each correlated positively with employees’ sense of control over the indoor air quality in their personal workspace.

Originality/value

This case study adds to an interdisciplinary understanding for facility managers and organizational leaders concerning a way to measure occupants’ sense of control over the indoor air quality in their building, as well as their environmental trust in terms of how protected they feel from harmful air quality conditions.
Non-dyadic human–robot interactions and online brand communities
Authors: Lima Vitor , Zanini Marco Tulio , Reis Irigaray Hélio Arthur
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This research investigates and conceptualizes non-dyadic human–robot interactions (HRI).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted a netnographic study of the Facebook group called “iRobot – Roomba,” an online brand community dedicated to Roomba vacuums. Their data analysis employed an abductive approach, which extended the grounded theory method.

Findings

Dyadic portrayals of human–robot interactions can be expanded to consider other actants that are relevant to the consumption experiences of consumer robots. Not only humans but also nonhumans, such as an online brand community, have a meaningful role to play in shaping interactions between humans and robots.

Research limitations/implications

The present study moves theoretical discussions on HRI from the individual level grounded in a purely psychological approach to a more collective and sociocultural approach.

Practical implications

If managers do not have a proper assessment of human–robot interactions that considers different actants and their role in the socio-technical arrangement, they will find it more challenging to design and suggest new consumption experiences.

Originality/value

Unlike most previous marketing and consumer research on human–robot interactions, we show that different actants exert agency in different ways, at different times and with different socio-technical arrangements.
The evolution of privacy in contemporary houses in Iran using space syntax techniques: a case study of Kerman
Authors: Zabihi Ali , Mirzaei Reza
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The house not only provides shelter and security but also is a reflection of human privacy. One of the important factors involved in house design is privacy. The current research is a case study that examines privacy's evolution in contemporary houses in Kerman using space syntax techniques.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is based on the quantitative approach of space syntax. A total number of 15 houses in Kerman built in three periods of Qajar, Pahlavi and the Islamic Republic, were examined for the space syntax indices using UCL DepthMap. The DepthMap outputs were also analyzed using one-way ANOVA.

Findings

The findings indicated that the arrangement of spaces in houses has altered over time from the 1920s onwards. There is a significant difference between houses of the Qajar, Pahlavi and the Islamic Republic eras, indicating a reduction in the hierarchy of access and reduced privacy in houses in the Islamic Republic.

Research limitations/implications

Numerous factors affect privacy (e.g. confidentiality, interface spaces, quality of openings and visibility). Nevertheless, this study focused on the impact of spatial configuration on privacy. It can be stated that the design of houses from the Pahlavi period was gradually associated with changes in culture and modern architecture, leading to a decrease in privacy.

Originality/value

This study used space syntax to examine the evolution of privacy in contemporary Iranian houses. Since privacy is a substantial issue in the middle east communities, the findings can help designers and relevant organizations consider privacy as much as other comfort factors in the early stages of design.
New out-performing structured pigments for anticorrosive practical applications
Authors: Ahmed Nivin M. , Mohamed Mostafa G. , Abd El-Gawad Walaa M.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Long time ago, multistructured materials showed great interest being considered as the bridge between bulk and atomic materials. Core-shell particles are kind of composite materials that refer to multilayered structures with a core totally surrounded by shell(s) (onion-like structure). These new structures can offer an advantage of applying new adjustable parameters like shape, stoichiometry and chemical ordering, in addition to the opportunity of tailoring more complexed structures for different applications. Recently it was found that these structures can be tuned and taken for more advanced path with novel structures formed of core surrounded by multishells. The purpose of this study is to study the effect of the new anticorrosive pigments with its mutual shells and how each shell affects the performance of the pigment in protecting the metal and which shell will be more relevant in its effect.

Design/methodology/approach

The prepared pigments were characterized using X-ray fluorescence, X-ray diffraction, TEM and SEM/EDX to prove their core-shell structure, and then they were integrated in coating formulations to evaluate their anticorrosive activity using immersion test and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).

Findings

The results showed that the prepared core-shell pigments possess a lot of unique characteristics and can offer improved anticorrosive performance in the generated coatings.

Originality/value

Core-mutual shells structured pigments were prepared for improving the corrosion resistivity of the organic coatings as a new trend in anticorrosive pigments.
The evolution and future of lean Six Sigma 4.0
Authors: Antony Jiju , McDermott Olivia , Powell Daryl , Sony Michael
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This purpose of this study is to provide an overview of the current state of research on Lean Six Sigma (LSS) and Industry 4.0 and the key aspects of the relationships between them. The research analyses LSS's evolution and discusses the future role of LSS 4.0 in an increasingly digitalized world. We present the benefits and motivations of integrating LSS and Industry 4.0 as well as the critical success factors and challenges within this emerging area of research.

Design/methodology/approach

A systematic literature review methodology was established to identify, select and evaluate published research.

Findings

There is a synergistic nature between LSS and Industry 4.0. Companies having a strong LSS culture can ease the transition to Industry 4.0 while Industry 4.0 technologies can provide superior performance for companies who are using LSS methodology.

Research limitations/implications

One limitation of this research was that as this area is a nascent area, the researchers were limited in their literature review and research. A more comprehensive longitudinal study would yield more data. There is an opportunity for further study and analysis.

Practical implications

This study reviews the evolution of LSS and its integration with Industry 4.0. Organisations can use this study to understand the benefits and motivating factors for integrating LSS and Industry 4.0, the Critical Success Factors and challenges to such integration.

Originality/value

This is the first systematic literature review on LSS 4.0 and can provide insight for practitioners, organisations and future research directions.
Dermoscopic features of eyelid margin tumors: A single‐center retrospective study
Authors: Jaworska Karolina , Sławińska Martyna , Wyszomirski Adam , Lakomy Joanna , Sobjanek Michał
Published: May 2022

Despite rapid growth in the significance of dermoscopy in dermatological oncology, relatively little is yet known about the dermoscopic patterns of eyelid margin tumors. The aim of the study was to analyze the dermoscopic features of eyelid margin tumors. This was a retrospective, single‐center, consecutive study which included clinical and dermoscopic analysis of eyelid margin tumors diagnosed at the Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology at the Medical University of Gdańsk from 1 June 2016 to 31 December 2020. Dermoscopic features significantly more prevalent in malignant non‐melanocytic lesions compared to benign ones were alteration in eyelash growth, structureless pink areas, starry milia‐like cysts, and perpendicular vessels. In contrast, there were no dermoscopic features that occurred significantly more frequently in malignant melanocytic lesions when compared to benign ones. Basal cell carcinoma, in comparison to hidrocystoma, more commonly presented with ulceration and structureless pink areas. The main features differentiating basal cell carcinoma from dermal nevus were the presence of ulceration, alteration in eyelash growth, structureless pink and structureless white areas, and perpendicular vessels within the tumor with each of these features observed more commonly in basal cell carcinoma. Blue nevus, hemangioma, or pigmented hidrocystoma presenting exclusively with blue structureless areas may be difficult to differentiate based on dermoscopy. The study offers additional dermoscopic clues in the assessment of eyelid margin tumors. Some observations reported previously to be typical of basal cell carcinoma (e.g., linear vessels arranged perpendicularly to the eyelid margin) were documented also within the normal eyelid margin accompanying other cases, and according to our study, cannot be useful as a pathognomonic feature. In contrast, it seems that yellow structures (half‐moon sign, starry milia‐like cysts) may be important dermoscopic features, though further studies are needed to confirm our observations.
Angiotensin receptor‐neprilysin inhibitor attenuates cardiac hypertrophy and improves diastolic dysfunction in a mouse model of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Zhang Yue , Yuan Meng , Suo Ya , Yang Qian , Shao Shuai , Li Ying , Wang Yuanyuan , Bao Qiankun , Liu Tong , Li Guangping
Published: May 2022

LCZ696, an angiotensin receptor–neprilysin inhibitor, has shown promising clinical efficacy in patients with heart failure (HF) with reduced ejection fraction. However, its potential effects on heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) are still not fully understood. We evaluated the effect of LCZ696 on HFpEF in transverse aortic constriction mice and compared it with the effect of the angiotensin receptor blocker, valsartan. We found that LCZ696 improved cardiac diastolic function by reducing ventricular hypertrophy and fibrosis in mice with overload‐induced diastolic dysfunction. In addition, there was superior inhibition of LCZ696 than stand‐alone valsartan. As a potential underlying mechanism, we demonstrated that LCZ696 behaves as a potent suppressor of calcium‐mediated calcineurin‐nuclear factor of activated T cells (NFAT) signalling transduction pathways. Hence, we demonstrated the protective effects of LCZ696 in overload‐induced HFpEF and provided a pharmaceutical therapeutic strategy for related diseases.
A risk calculator for postoperative urinary retention (POUR) following vaginal pelvic floor surgery: multivariable prediction modelling
Authors: Anglim Breffini C. , Tomlinson George , Paquette Joalee , McDermott Colleen D.
Published: May 2022

Objective

To determine the perioperative characteristics associated with an increased risk of postoperative urinary retention (POUR) following vaginal pelvic floor surgery.

Design

A retrospective cohort study using multivariable prediction modelling.

Setting

A tertiary referral urogynaecology unit.

Population

Patients undergoing vaginal pelvic floor surgery from January 2015 to February 2020.

Methods

Eighteen variables (24 parameters) were compared between those with and without POUR and then included as potential predictors in statistical models to predict POUR. The final model was chosen as the model with the largest concordance index (c‐index) from internal cross‐validation. This was then externally validated using a separate data set (n = 94) from another surgical centre.

Main outcome measure

Diagnosis of POUR following surgery while the patient was in hospital.

Results

Among the 700 women undergoing surgery, 301 (43%) experienced POUR. Preoperative variables with statistically significant univariate relationships with POUR included age, menopausal status, prolapse stage and uroflowmetry parameters. Significant perioperative factors included estimated blood loss, volume of intravenous fluid administered, operative time, length of stay and specific procedures, including vaginal hysterectomy with intraperitoneal vault suspension, anterior colporrhaphy, posterior colporrhaphy and colpocleisis. The lasso logistic regression model had the best combination of internally cross‐validated c‐index (0.73, 95% CI 0.71–0.74) and a calibration curve that showed good alignment between observed and predicted risks. Using this data, a POUR risk calculator was developed (https://pourrisk.shinyapps.io/POUR/).

Conclusions

This POUR risk calculator will allow physicians to counsel patients preoperatively on their risk of developing POUR after vaginal pelvic surgery and help focus discussion around potential management options.
Increased risk of obstetric anal sphincter injury in women undergoing vaginal delivery after caesarean section: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Perslev Kathrine , Mørch Ella‐Josephine , Jangö Hanna
Published: May 2022

Background

There is increased focus on obstetric anal sphincter injury (OASI) and there are several well‐established risk factors such as birthweight, instrumental delivery and median episiotomy. Some studies have found increased risk of OASI in women delivering vaginally after a previous caesarean section (VBAC).

Objective

To evaluate whether there is increased prevalence of OASI in VBAC compared with primiparous women.

Search strategy

Literature search using PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases.

Selection criteria

All studies with data on both primiparous women and women undergoing VBAC were included. All included studies were evaluated using the “SIGN – methodology checklist” to verify if the quality was acceptable.

Data collection and analysis

This systematic review included 23 articles conducted in 11 countries over 19 years. Included studies were analysed using RevMan version 5.4.

Main results

We found increased prevalence of OASI in the VBAC group; 8.18% (95% confidence interval [CI] 8.07–8.29) compared with 6.59% (95% CI 6.56–6.62) in primiparous women. Correspondingly, the meta‐analysis revealed increased prevalence for OASI in the VBAC group (odds ratio 1.27, 95% CI 1.10–1.47). We found a high level of heterogeneity (I2 = 98%).

Conclusion

Women undergoing VBAC had a higher prevalence of OASI compared with primiparous women.
Effect of gestational age at laser therapy on perinatal outcome in monochorionic diamniotic pregnancies affected by twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome
Authors: Bartin Raphael , Colmant Claire , Bourgon Nicolas , Ville Yves , Stirnemann Julien
Published: May 2022

Objective

To evaluate the effect of gestational age at laser therapy for twin‐to‐twin transfusion syndrome (TTTS) on perinatal outcome.

Design and settings

Single retrospective observational cohort.

Population

All consecutive pregnancies affected by TTTS and referred to our department between January 2013 and August 2020.

Methods

Gestational age was modelled both as a categorical and as a continuous variable. Log‐binomial regression was used to estimate the odds ratios (crude and adjusted for placental location, Quintero stage and cervical length) as well as the adjusted predicted probability of survival and fetal loss according to gestational age at laser therapy.

Main outcomes

Fetal and neonatal survival, preterm prelabour rupture of membranes (PPROM).

Results

Of the 503 pregnancies referred for TTTS, 431 were treated by laser therapy. Gestational age at laser therapy was positively and significantly associated with the overall survival at birth and at discharge (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.12, 95% CI 1.05–1.19), as with a reduction in double fetal loss (aOR 0.81, 95% CI 0.71–0.92). Conversely, the rate of PPROM before 24 weeks was significantly higher in early cases (32% of PPROM <24 weeks when laser therapy was performed before 17 weeks versus 1.5% after 22 weeks, p < 0.001, aOR 0.60, 95% CI 0.48–0.72). Among the survivors, preterm birth before 28 weeks was significantly related to the gestational age at laser (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.84–0.99), resulting in a significant impact on neonatal morbidity (OR 0.91, 95% CI 0.85–0.97).

Conclusion

Our results suggest a significant and independent impact of the gestational age at laser surgery on perinatal survival, PPROM and neonatal morbidity.
The social contract of work: Moving beyond the psychological contract
Authors: Korczynski Marek
Published: May 2022

This paper develops the critique of psychologisation by going narrow and deep into the analysis of the concept of the psychological contract. In its early incarnation, the psychological contract literature explored key elements at the heart of the employment relationship. However, in the current mainstream psychological contract literature, there are four key problems. The paper shows that these problems match on to the wider problems associated with pyschologisation. The concept of the social contract of work is put forward as a way to return productively to the original focus of the field. The social contract of work is defined as workers' implicit, collective, and socially embedded understanding of the effort bargain at work.
A rare case of docetaxel‐induced myositis in a patient with a lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Ishida Akane , Ushio Ayumi , Hashimoto Masao , Ishii Satoru , Naka Go , Iikura Motoyasu , Izumi Shinyu , Hojo Masayuki , Sugiyama Haruhito
Published: May 2022

Docetaxel is a cytotoxic taxane frequently used to treat patients with various cancers, including non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC). Docetaxel is known to cause acute myalgias, arthralgias, and neuropathy, but there have been few published case reports of myositis. Here, we describe a rare case of docetaxel‐induced myositis diagnosed based on laboratory data, thigh magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), and electromyography (EEG). A 66‐year‐old male was admitted for thigh pain and fatigue that onset 1 week prior. He had been diagnosed with stage IVA (cT4N0M1a) NSCLC 3 years ago and had been started on docetaxel (60 mg/m2 intravenously every 3 weeks; fourth‐line chemotherapy) 1 month earlier. After the second cycle, he developed both thigh pain and fatigue. On admission, his creatinine phosphokinase (CPK) level was elevated, thigh MRI revealed diffuse muscle edema, and EEG showed myogenic changes. We found no plausible cause for myositis except docetaxel. He was diagnosed with myositis and treated with oral prednisolone. His symptoms were relieved and the CPK level declined. Although rare, this case indicates that clinicians should consider the possibility of myositis as a complication in patients on docetaxel.
Spatially explicit management of genetic diversity using ancestry probability surfaces
Authors: Massatti Rob , Winkler Daniel E.
Published: May 2022

Ecological restoration and conservation efforts are increasing worldwide and the management of intraspecific genetic variation in plants and animals, an important component of biodiversity, is increasingly valued. As a result, tailorable, spatially explicit approaches to map genetic variation are needed to support decision‐making and management frameworks related to the recovery of threatened and endangered species and the maintenance of genetic resources in species utilized by humans, such as for restoration or agricultural purposes.

Here, we describe and demonstrate a workflow to spatially interpolate patterns of genetic differentiation using novel functions in the r package popmaps (Population Management using Ancestry Probability Surfaces). Our approach uses empirical genetic data to estimate ancestry coefficients across a user‐defined landscape correlated with patterns of differentiation in the focal species. The resulting surface, which we term the ancestry probability surface, includes two components: hard population boundaries and estimations of uncertainty that represent confidence in population assignments (i.e. ancestry probabilities).

An ancestry probability surface developed for Hilaria jamesii, an important graminoid utilized in restoration across the western United States, demonstrates the functionality of popmaps. Genetic distances among empirical sites correlated better with least‐cost distances across suitable habitat than with geographical distances, informing the surface over which the interpolation was conducted (i.e. a model indicating habitat suitability). A jackknifing procedure identified parameter values resulting in robust population assignments across the species' range, which were utilized in downstream analyses to estimate ancestry coefficients from empirical data. Ancestry coefficients were translated into ancestry probabilities, which tended to be low for cells that were intermediate in distance between empirical sampling locations representing different populations or when influenced by empirical sampling locations with mixed genetic ancestry.

popmaps allows users to tailor parameter values and analytical approaches and thereby incorporate species‐specific biological characteristics and desired levels of uncertainty into maps illustrating patterns of genetic differentiation. Ancestry probability surfaces may be used to guide management or investigate further ecological or evolutionary hypotheses. We discuss how maps produced by popmaps can inform multiple management challenges including species recovery planning and the utilization of commonly used species in restoration.
Population density and distribution of common warthog (Phacochoerus africanusGmelin, 1788) in Dabena Valley Forest, Western Ethiopia
Authors: Edossa Alemayehu , Bekele Afework , Debella Habte Jebessa
Published: May 2022

A study about the spatial distribution and density of common warthog (Phacochoerus africanus) was conducted in two focal areas in Dabena Valley Forest, Western Ethiopia, from May 2016 to June 2018. These were Gassi Controlled Area (GCHA) in the southwestern part and Haro Aba Diko Controlled Hunting Area (HADCHA) in the northeastern part of the Valley. Population abundance and densities were analysed using distance sampling method. A total of 246 and 652 warthogs were counted in GCHA and HADCHA, respectively. The two study areas were significantly different during the wet season and during the dry season in the number of common warthog population per transect. During the dry season, HADCHA possessed more mean of cluster density (5.18/km2) than the GCHA (2.37/km2). Common warthog encounter rate ranged from 1.1 to 3.73/km during the wet season in both study areas. The two study areas did not show significant variation (χ2 = 0.188,df = 1,p = 0.05) in the clusters of common warthog sightings. A high number of common warthog population are threatened by increasing anthropogenic activities. Common warthog's natural habitats and their buffer zones should be properly monitored: Cattle grazing and human encroachment should be prohibited.
Raitera, Ally, Accomplice: Giving Rides as Engaged Ethnography
Authors: Guzmán Jennifer R.
Published: May 2022

Immigrant rights activism in rural Western New York involves collaboration between im/migrant farmworkers and their non‐immigrant supporters, aliados (allies). Ally ride‐giving in particular plays a crucial role in mobilization. Because allyship is a cornerstone of contemporary US social movements and a role to which ethnographers are likely to be assigned when working in activist settings, I approach the constructs of allyship and rides as objects of critical inquiry and in relation to conversations about complicity in ethnographic practice. Using experiences from my fieldwork as an aliada (ally) and volunteer raitera (driver), I unpack how rides become more than a mechanical means to a transportation end. When racialization and illegality constrain people’s use of roads and cars, I posit that rides can constitute a collaborative means of resistance and an intervention in the politics of mobility. For engaged scholars, this political aspect of rides should not be divorced from considerations of rides as an intimate space‐time shared between drivers and passengers and that exceeds their instrumentalization as a political tool. This theorization of rides as simultaneously political and intimate is generative in imagining modes of praxis for ethnographers acting as accomplices in shared struggles for justice. [activism, allyship, complicity, migration, mobility]
Totally laparoscopic colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis for colonic liposarcoma: A case report
Authors: Fujii Kento , Okita Atsushi , Tsukuda Kazunori , Yamamoto Sumiharu , Yokoyama Nobuji
Published: May 2022

Liposarcoma is a type of soft tissue sarcoma. Primary colonic liposarcomas are extremely rare. An 86‐year‐old man with diarrhea and anorexia visited our outpatient clinic at Okayama City Hospital. Colonoscopy and computed tomography imaging revealed a large submucosal tumor in the descending colon with a maximum diameter of approximately 10 cm. He underwent totally laparoscopic left hemicolectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis. The histopathological diagnosis was a well‐differentiated liposarcoma without lymph node metastases. The patient's postoperative course was uneventful. We herein report a rare case of totally laparoscopic colectomy with intracorporeal anastomosis in an elderly patient with colonic liposarcoma.
Advancing scholarship on anti‐racism within developmental science: Reflections on the special section and recommendations for future research
Authors: Cooper Shauna M. , Hurd Noelle M. , Loyd Aerika Brittian
Published: May 2022

To date, theoretical and conceptual scholarship on anti‐racism has been advanced through leading contributions from several disciplines (e.g., sociology, education, psychology). Still, there remain fewer empirical studies on anti‐racism constructs, and we know little about the development of anti‐racism among diverse youth across key stages of development. In this special section ofChild Development, we sought to address this gap by highlighting scholarship in developmental science that attends to the development of anti‐racism in children across contexts (e.g., families, schools) and developmental stages (e.g., early childhood through emerging adulthood). In our introduction to the special section, we review the collective contributions of included studies and outline recommendations for future research in the development of anti‐racism in youth.
An examination of predisposing and enabling factors that predict dental utilization among individuals with serious mental illness in Detroit, Michigan
Authors: Abraham Kristen M. , Vu Tiffany , Chavis Camryn D. , Dykhuis Kate E. , Sata Monika J.
Published: May 2022

Objectives

This study evaluated which predisposing and enabling factors prospectively predicted dental utilization over 6 months among people with serious mental illness.

Methods

A sample of individuals with serious mental illness (86.3% African American; 97.4% with public health insurance) was recruited from community mental health centres in Detroit, Michigan, and responded to questionnaires at baseline and at least one follow‐up visit at 3 or 6 months (N = 190). Baseline assessments included demographic and clinical information, established measures of health literacy, health insurance literacy, stigma related to mental illness, experiences of racial discrimination and medical mistrust. Insurance coverage for dental care and the availability of dental services at the participants' mental health centres was recorded. At follow‐up visits, participants reported healthcare utilization, including dental and primary care, since baseline.

Results

Three factors emerged as meaningful predictors of having a dental visit in bivariate and multivariate analyses: more medical comorbidities and dental care co‐located with mental health care predicted increased likelihood of a dental visit, whereas having experienced racial discrimination in a medical setting predicted lower odds of having a dental visit in the follow‐up period. Co‐location of dental care with mental health care was the strongest predictor of having a dental visit.

Conclusions

Co‐locating dental care with mental health care may increase dental utilization among people with serious mental illness, possibly by mitigating known barriers to dental care for this population. Among African Americans, the co‐location of dental care with mental health care may also attenuate the negative effect of prior racial discrimination in a medical setting on dental utilization.
Novel methods for circumferential cryoanaesthesia: using doughnut pan or gauze
Authors: AlJasser Mohammed I.
Published: May 2022

Ice is effective for local anaesthesia but does not allow injecting without removing the ice device. This was partially solved by some recently described methods for circumferential cryoanaesthesia (CCA). CCA provides continuous anaesthesia along the peripheral part of the injection site while keeping the central part open for intervention. We describe additional novel methods for CCA using doughnut pan or gauze.
Early detection of delayed pneumothorax using lung ultrasound after transthoracic needle lung biopsy: A prospective pilot study
Authors: Koh Jeong Suk , Chung Chaeuk , Kim Ju Ock , Jung Sung Soo , Park Hee Sun , Lee Jeong Eun , Kang Da Hyun , Kim Yoonjoo , Park Dongil
Published: May 2022

Objectives

Delayed pneumothorax can cause an emergency room visit and be life‐threatening in case of tension pneumothorax after transthoracic needle biopsy. We hypothesized that most delayed pneumothoraces are diagnosed by later enlargement of occult pneumothorax due to the low diagnostic accuracy of a chest X‐ray. Lung ultrasound is a highly accurate tool for detection of pneumothorax. The aim of this study is to evaluate the diagnostic accuracy of lung ultrasound for prediction of delayed pneumothorax on chest X‐ray.

Methods

This prospective pilot study was performed between April 2020 and July 2020 in Chungnam National University Hospital. The participants underwent chest X‐rays and lung ultrasound before, immediately after, and 3 h after transthoracic needle biopsy, respectively. The presence or absence of lung sliding at each anterior BLUE‐point on an ultrasound and pneumothorax on a chest X‐ray was recorded.

Results

Pneumothorax occurred in 17 (35.4%) participants, and three of them underwent chest tube replacement. Of the 17 (35.4%) cases of pneumothorax, five participants (10.4%) were diagnosed with delayed pneumothorax. Three out of five participants showed loss of lung sliding on lung ultrasound before the diagnosis of delayed pneumothorax. Therefore, the sensitivity of lung sliding on lung ultrasound for early detection of delayed pneumothorax was 60%. Two undetected cases were asymptomatic, and the pneumothoraces were exceedingly small and recovered spontaneously. Thus, sensitivity for detection of clinically meaningful delayed pneumothorax requiring chest tube replacement was 100% (2/2).

Conclusion

Lung ultrasound can probably predict clinically meaningful delayed pneumothorax after transthoracic needle lung biopsy.