bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspirin Therapy on Prophylactic Anticoagulation for Patients Hospitalized With COVID‐19: A Propensity Score‐Matched Cohort Analysis of the HOPE‐COVID‐19 Registry
Authors: Santoro Francesco , Núñez‐Gil Ivan J. , Vitale Enrica , Viana‐Llamas María C. , Romero Rodolfo , Maroun Eid Charbel , Feltes Guzman Gisela , Becerra‐Muñoz Victor Manuel , Fernández Rozas Inmaculada , Uribarri Aitor , Alfonso‐Rodriguez Emilio , García Aguado Marcos , Huang Jia , Castro Mejía Alex Fernando , Garcia Prieto Juan Fortunato , Elola Javier , Ugo Fabrizio , Cerrato Enrico , Signes‐Costa Jaime , Raposeiras Roubin Sergio , Jativa Mendez Jorge Luis , Espejo Paeres Carolina , López Masjuan Alvaro , Marin Francisco , Guerra Federico , El‐Battrawy Ibrahim , Cortese Bernardo , Ramakrishna Harish , Perez‐Villacastín Julian , Fernandez‐Ortiz Antonio , Brunetti Natale Daniele
Published: June 2022

Background

COVID‐19 is an infectious illness, featured by an increased risk of thromboembolism. However, no standard antithrombotic therapy is currently recommended for patients hospitalized with COVID‐19. The aim of this study was to evaluate safety and efficacy of additional therapy with aspirin over prophylactic anticoagulation (PAC) in patients hospitalized with COVID‐19 and its impact on survival.

Methods and Results

A total of 8168 patients hospitalized for COVID‐19 were enrolled in a multicenter‐international prospective registry (HOPE COVID‐19). Clinical data and in‐hospital complications, including mortality, were recorded. Study population included patients treated with PAC or with PAC and aspirin. A comparison of clinical outcomes between patients treated with PAC versus PAC and aspirin was performed using an adjusted analysis with propensity score matching. Of 7824 patients with complete data, 360 (4.6%) received PAC and aspirin and 2949 (37.6%) PAC. Propensity‐score matching yielded 298 patients from each group. In the propensity score‐matched population, cumulative incidence of in‐hospital mortality was lower in patients treated with PAC and aspirin versus PAC (15% versus 21%, Log Rank
P
=0.01). At multivariable analysis in propensity matched population of patients with COVID‐19, including age, sex, hypertension, diabetes, kidney failure, and invasive ventilation, aspirin treatment was associated with lower risk of in‐hospital mortality (hazard ratio [HR], 0.62; [95% CI 0.42–0.92],
P
=0.018).

Conclusions

Combination PAC and aspirin was associated with lower mortality risk among patients hospitalized with COVID‐19 in a propensity score matched population compared to PAC alone.
Increases in Circulating and Fecal Butyrate are Associated With Reduced Blood Pressure and Hypertension: Results From the SPIRIT Trial
Authors: Tilves Curtis , Yeh Hsin‐Chieh , Maruthur Nisa , Juraschek Stephen P. , Miller Edgar , White Karen , Appel Lawrence J. , Mueller Noel T.
Published: June 2022

Background

Short chain fatty acids (SCFAs) are microbially derived end products of dietary fiber fermentation. The SCFA butyrate reduces blood pressure (BP) in mouse models. The association of SCFAs, including butyrate, with BP in humans is unclear, due in part to predominantly cross‐sectional analyses and different biospecimens (blood versus fecal) for SCFA measurement. Longitudinal studies including both circulating and fecal SCFAs are lacking.

Methods and Results

We leveraged existing data from the SPIRIT (Survivorship Promotion In Reducing IGF‐1 Trial), which randomized 121 adult cancer survivors with overweight/obesity to a behavioral weight‐loss intervention, metformin, or self‐directed weight‐loss. Of participants with baseline serum and fecal SCFAs measured (n=111), a subset had serum (n=93) and fecal (n=89) SCFA measurements 12 months later. We used Poisson regression with robust error variance to estimate baseline associations of SCFAs with hypertension, and we assessed the percent change in SCFAs from baseline with corresponding 12‐month changes in BP using multiple linear regression. Baseline fecal butyrate was inversely associated with prevalent hypertension (standardized PR [95%CI]: 0.71 [0.54, 0.92]). A 10% increase in fecal butyrate from baseline was associated with decreased systolic BP (β [95%CI]: −0.56 [−1.01, −0.10] mm Hg), and a 10% increase in serum butyrate was associated with decreased systolic (β [95%CI]: −1.39 [−2.15, −0.63] mm Hg) and diastolic (β [95%CI]: −0.55 [−1.03, −0.08] mm Hg) BPs. Butyrate associations with systolic BP were linear and not modified by sex, race, or intervention arm.

Conclusions

Increased serum or fecal butyrate is associated with lowered BP. Butyrate may be a target for SCFA‐centered BP‐lowering interventions.

Registration

URL:https://www.clinicaltrials.gov; Unique identifier: NCT02431676.
Racial and Ethnic Differences in Cardiac Rehabilitation Participation: Effect Modification by Household Income
Authors: Garfein Joshua , Guhl Emily N. , Swabe Gretchen , Sekikawa Akira , Barinas‐Mitchell Emma , Forman Daniel E. , Magnani Jared W.
Published: June 2022

Background

Cardiac rehabilitation (CR) is associated with improved cardiovascular outcomes. Racial and ethnic differences in CR have been identified, but whether income may attenuate these disparities remains unknown. We evaluated (1) racial/ethnic differences in CR participation in a contemporary sample of insured US adults, and (2) assessed how household income modifies associations between race or ethnicity and CR participation.

Methods and Results

We identified 107 199 individuals with a CR‐qualifying diagnosis between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2018 in Optum’s de‐identified Clinformatics database. We evaluated associations between race or ethnicity and participation in CR, and assessed interaction between race or ethnicity and annual household income. The mean±SD age of all participants was 70.4±11.6 years; 37.4% were female and 76.0% were White race. Overall, 28 443 (26.5%) attended ≥1 CR sessions. After adjustment, compared with White individuals, the probability of attending CR was 31% lower for Asian individuals (95% CI, 27%–36%), 19% lower for Black individuals (95% CI, 16%–22%), and 43% lower for Hispanic individuals (95% CI, 40%–45%), all
P
<0.0001. The time to CR attendance was also significantly longer for Asian, Black, and Hispanic individuals. Associations between race or ethnicity and attendance at CR differed significantly across household income categories (
P
interaction=0.0005); however, Asian, Black, and Hispanic individuals were less likely to attend CR at all incomes.

Conclusions

In a geographically and racially diverse cohort, participation in CR was low overall, and was lowest among Asian, Black, and Hispanic candidates. Household income may impact the link between race or ethnicity and attendance at CR, but substantial racial and ethnic disparities exist across incomes.
Morphometric approach to supports distinction among three species of Paucibranchia Molina-Acevedo, 2018 (Annelida: Eunicidae)
Authors: MOLINA-ACEVEDO ISABEL C. , FERNÁNDEZ-RODRÍGUEZ VANESSA , IDRIS IZWANDY
Published: June 2022

In this study, we performed a morphometric approach of 23 quantitative features of Paucibranchia bellii (Audouin & Milne-Edwards, 1833), P. disjuncta (Hartman, 1961), and P. carrerai Molina-Acevedo, 2018 in order to evaluate their importance in interspecific discrimination. We found that eight of the 23 features measured were correlated with the organism’s size, in particular, branchiae, parapodia, and chaetae. The features that were not size-dependent presented a low range of variation related to the maxillary apparatus (as the maxillary formula) or the prostomial appendages and could be used as taxonomically informative characters. The multivariate analysis selected six characteristics that best contributed to the three species’ discrimination. At least four of these features were related to the start of the branchiae and subacicular hooks, the maximum number of chaetigers with branchiae, and the maximum number of branchial filaments, all of them considered size-dependent. However, two other features, teeth in maxilla III and the length of the opening cavity in the maxillary apparatus, were not size-dependent. The results allowed us to demonstrate that both sized- and non-sized depending on characters are helpful and necessary to improve species discrimination within the genus Paucibranchia. Finally, we provide a detailed analysis of the ontogenetic changes of P. carrerai with additional material found on the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia.
First records of two orthocentrine genera (Hymenoptera: Ichneumonidae) from India with description of two new species
Authors: RANJITH A.P. , HUMALA ANDREI E. , PRIYADARSANAN DHARMA RAJAN
Published: June 2022

The orthocentrine ichneumonid genera Gnathochorisis and Symplecis are reported for the first time from India with the description of two new species. Taxonomic keys for the identification of Indomalayan Gnathochorisis and Symplecis are provided along with the illustration of the new species.
I spoke up, did you hear? The impact of voice (in)congruence on employee-initiated constructive changes
Authors: Zhang Limei , Liang Jian , Liu Fangzhou
Published: June 2022

Why do employees voice ideas for constructive changes in their organization and then fail to pursue those changes? To answer this question, we examined how individuals’ voice experiences with managers influence their initiative in pursuing constructive changes. Viewing the voicer–manager dyad as the basic unit of analysis, we propose that (in)congruence between manager-rated and employee self-rated voice behavior provides individuals with important cues about whether they receive respect for their voiced ideas. This sequentially influences whether employees prefer to pursue constructive changes after speaking up. Using time-lagged survey data collected from 191 employee–manager dyads, we tested our hypotheses using a multilevel polynomial regression framework. The findings show that the experience of voice congruence increases an individual’s perceived respect for voice from the manager, which, in turn, leads to greater effort in implementing constructive changes. This relationship is stronger for individuals who believe that they cannot speak up to the manager without clear solutions and careful preparation (i.e. voice quality belief). The theoretical and practical implications of this study are also discussed.
Role Integration Increases the Fungibility of Mentally Accounted Funds
Authors: Paul Iman , Parker Jeffrey R. , Dommer Sara Loughran
Published: June 2022

Bridging the gap between the mental accounting and identities/roles literatures, the present research examines how the extent to which an individual's life roles (e.g., “employee,” “spouse”) are integrated (i.e., have more flexible and permeable psychological boundaries between them) moderates the fungibility of mentally accounted funds. Specifically, individuals with more integrated roles are more able to circumvent the constraints typically imposed by mental budgeting and earmarking; therefore, they are more likely to use funds that are allocated or budgeted for the purposes of one role to service the needs/wants of another role. This holds regardless of whether funds have been (1) allocated to a broader role-specific mental account for future expenditures or (2) earmarked for a specific purchase. The authors find evidence that the effect of role integration arises because those with more integrated roles believe that making purchases for one role using funds allocated or budgeted for the other role is more justifiable.
Effects of listening to Quran recitation on anxiety reduction in elective surgeries: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Zarea Gavgani Vahideh , Ghojazadeh Mortaza , Sadeghi-Ghyassi Fatemeh , Khodapanah Tahmineh
Published: June 2022

Anxiety is a common unpleasant reaction among patients undergoing surgery. Many non-pharmacological methods such as spiritual strength are effective in preoperative anxiety management. This study aimed to assess the effects of listening to Quran recitation on reducing preoperative anxiety. A systematic review was performed in Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, PsycINFO, Arab World Research Source, and other relevant databases to collect the data. Randomized controlled trials about the effects of listening to Quran recitation on preoperative anxiety reduction in elective surgery were selected without any language and date restriction. Interventions with self-reading/self-recitation were excluded. The Cochran’s Q statistic and the I2 index with 50% threshold were used for calculating the heterogeneity and inconsistency index. Subgroup analysis was conducted based on the surgery type. The funnel plot was used to evaluate the possibility of publication bias. Twelve studies were included in the qualitative synthesis and nine studies in the quantitative synthesis. The meta-analysis showed a significant anxiety reduction with listening to Quran recitation. The heterogeneity between the included studies was statistically significant (Q = 23.05, I2 = 65.29, p = 0.003). The pooled effect size of anxiety was d = −8.893 (95% confidence interval (CI) = −10.763 to −7.022) (p < 0.001). The subgroup analysis showed that listening to Quran recitation reduces anxiety in major and minor surgeries. There was no publication bias (t = 0.907, p = 0.39) in the studies. The findings indicated that listening to Quran recitation can be considered a non-invasive and peaceful intervention to reduce preoperative anxiety in elective surgery.
Associations Between Work–Family Conflict, Psychological Distress, and Well-Being Among Taiwanese Clergy
Authors: Lee Hsiu-Chi , Fung Joey
Published: June 2022

The study examined the associations between work–family conflict (WFC), psychological distress, and well-being in a sample of 336 clergy ( mean age = 46.1 years, SD = 11.7 years) in Taiwan. Specifically, we examined how each of the four types of WFC (time-based work interference with family, time-based family interference with work, strain-based work interference with family, and strain-based family interference with work) were related to psychological distress (depression, anxiety, and burnout) and well-being (life satisfaction, flourishing, and spiritual well-being). Results from the bivariate analysis indicated that all four types of WFC were positively associated with psychological distress and negatively associated with well-being. However, when they were modeled simultaneously in the structural equation model, only strain-based WFC, but not time-based WFC, were related to the outcomes. Finally, younger, female, or single clergy, as well as clergy who work alone or who earn below the median income reported higher levels of psychological distress and lower levels of well-being compared with their counterparts. Practical implications of protecting and promoting clergy mental health were discussed in the article.
Gendered Impact of the COVID-19: Insights from an Interpretative Phenomenological Perspective
Authors: Kaur Supreet
Published: June 2022

COVID-19 pandemic has turned the lives of people upside down across all walks of life. The COVID-19 driven partial/full lockdowns across the globe confined millions behind the walls restricting their movement. The confinement of people has led to various disruptions in their social, economic and psychological well-being. The fear of catching the virus coupled with financial strain and social distancing has proliferated the anxiety and stress among the masses. COVID-19 has adversely impacted the progression of women’s empowerment. It is reported that a greater number of women compared to male counterparts have lost their jobs during the pandemic, especially those working in the industrial mix. Women since long have been facing the brunt of inequalities across different spheres and sectors. They have always assumed the role of primary caregivers, be it in the present context or the various outbreaks in the past. Theoretical background establishes the conspicuous impact of various outbreaks in the past leading to economic and social disruptions. Further, few have addressed the psychological aspects of such outbreaks or crises on the people, and the invidious impact on women-specific studies is limited, especially in the Indian context. Therefore, the present study explains the major changes and issues women face during COVID-19, especially during the lockdown phase. The study highlights the significant roles assumed by women during the lockdown period and throws light on the precarious situation wherein they have faced intimate partner violence. The exploratory study delves deeper into the primary subjects using interpretative phenomenological analysis.
Improving knowledge retention in the cross-border mergers of the telecommunications industry of Lesotho
Authors: Tseole Tahleho , Ngulube Patrick
Published: June 2022

This article has been extracted from the larger PhD study which sought to investigate how knowledge retention (KR) may be improved in the context of cross-border mergers of the telecommunication industry of Lesotho. This is a quantitative case study research that triangulated interviews and questionnaires as instruments of data collection. The results for the study indicated that although there were no formal policies in place that guided the retention of knowledge, somehow knowledge was retained during the merger process. On the other hand, a considerable amount of valuable knowledge may have been lost because employees who either left the organisation during the process or those who were apparently forced to resign just left the organisation with no proper KR arrangement. The findings of the study also showed that the Econet Telecom Lesotho (ETL) merger was accompanied by a high staff turnover resulting from both forced and voluntary resignations.
Exploring the prevalence, impact and experience of cardiac cachexia in patients with advanced heart failure and their caregivers: A sequential phased study
Authors: Carson Matthew A , Reid Joanne , Hill Loreena , Dixon Lana , Donnelly Patrick , Slater Paul , Hill Alyson , Piper Susan E , McDonagh Theresa A , Fitzsimons Donna
Published: June 2022

Background:

Cardiac Cachexia is a wasting syndrome that has a significant impact on patient mortality and quality of life world-wide, although it is poorly understood in clinical practice.

Aim:

Identify the prevalence of cardiac cachexia in patients with advanced New York Heart Association (NYHA) functional class and explore its impact on patients and caregivers.

Design:

An exploratory cross-sectional study. The sequential approach had two phases, with phase 1 including 200 patients with NYHA III-IV heart failure assessed for characteristics of cardiac cachexia. Phase 2 focussed on semi-structured interviews with eight cachectic patients and five caregivers to ascertain the impact of the syndrome.

Setting/participants:

Two healthcare trusts within the United Kingdom.

Results:

Cardiac Cachexia was identified in 30 out of 200 participants, giving a prevalence rate of 15%. People with cachexia had a significantly reduced average weight and anthropometric measures ( p < 0.05). Furthermore, individuals with cachexia experienced significantly more fatigue, had greater issues with diet and appetite, reduced physical wellbeing and overall reduced quality of life. C-reactive protein was significantly increased, whilst albumin and red blood cell count were significantly decreased in the cachectic group ( p < 0.05). From qualitative data, four key themes were identified: (1) ‘Changed relationship with food and eating’, (2) ‘Not me in the mirror’, (3) ‘Lack of understanding regarding cachexia’ and (4) ‘Uncertainty regarding the future’.

Conclusions:

Cardiac cachexia has a debilitating effect on patients and caregivers. Future work should focus on establishing a specific definition and clinical pathway to enhance patient and caregiver support.
A Value-Based Well-Being Framework
Authors: Mele Cristina , Russo-Spena Tiziana , Tregua Marco , Pels Jaqueline
Published: June 2022

This article presents and illustrates a novel value-based well-being framework, derived from service-dominant logic notions of the link between value and well-being. Based in a wide range of disciplines, this framework links well-being to four value outcomes: use, option, existence, and bequest value. Such value outcomes stem from the interaction of three dimensions: beneficiary (individual or collective), time (present or future), and space (proximal or broader context). By combining the three dimensions, the proposed framework reveals how people evaluate their own individual well-being according to different beneficiaries, times, and spaces.
Is there a correlation between urolithiasis in horseshoe kidneys and isthmus thickness or renal angulation?
Authors: Kozan Andrei Adrian , Khan Atif , Adiotomre Ese , Burbidge Simon , Kimuli Michael , Biyani Chandra Shekhar , Lee Nicola
Published: June 2022

Background:

Stone disease is a common complication of horseshoe kidneys (HSK). There are currently limited studies that examine the relationship between HSK anatomy and stone formation. We aim to determine if there is such an association by measuring the isthmus size and renal angulation in both stone and non-stone forming HSK using computed tomography (CT).

Method:

This is a retrospective study performed at a single tertiary centre. Using the radiological information system, all CT reports between 01 January 2010 and 31 December 2015 were searched for the keyword ‘horseshoe’ on the radiological information system. This produced a list of 285 reports. Each report and image packet of these 285 studies were reviewed to confirm the presence of an HSK and duplicate patients from multiple examinations were highlighted. One hundred and thirty-eight unique HSK patients were obtained and the studies were assessed for the presence or absence of stones. A total of 112 HSK were found; 88 of which contained no stone and 24 with stone. Angle measurements and isthmus size were measured on these kidneys. As axial images are obtained as standard in all cases, these measurements were all obtained in the axial plane. All parameters were measured and recorded manually by one person so as to reduce inter-observer variability.

Results:

Isthmus size varied widely, measuring from 2 to 39 mm. Right renal angle ranged from 51 to 158°, left 38 to 152°.

Conclusion:

The isthmus size and renal angle measurements were not found to be significant determinants for stone disease in our patient population.
ERβ overexpression may not be a direct prognostic factor in patients with NSCLC: A meta-analysis
Authors: Li Hui , Chen Haishegn , Shi Jing , Fan Qing , Zhou Zhongxia , Tang Xiufeng , Wang Yanhong , Liu Yuguo
Published: June 2022

Overall survival of non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients remains disappointingly low. The estrogen receptor (ER) was considered a promising therapeutic target for NSCLC. Numerous studies have linked expression of ERβ to lung cancer outcome. However, results are conflicting regarding the association of ERβ with surviving lung cancer. The aim of this meta-analysis was to evaluate the prognostic aspect of ERβ expression on survival among NSCLC patients. We performed a final analysis of prognostic value of overexpression ERβ on 3500 patients from 18 evaluable studies (from January 1, 2000 to May 1, 2021). The reference category is specified as low ERβ expression levels. Summarized hazard ratios were calculated. Our study showed that the pooled hazard ratios of ERβ overexpression for overall survival in NSCLC was 0.81 (95% confidence interval (CI): 0.64–1.02, P = 0.07) by univariate analysis and 1.06 (95% CI: 0.83–1.36, P = 0.63) by multivariate analysis. Pooled hazard ratio by univariate analysis in Asian studies was 0.73 (95%CI: 0.59–0.89, P = 0.002). Pooled hazard ratio by univariate analysis was 0.75 (95% CI: 0.61–0.93, P = 0.009) from seven studies reported for nuclear ERβ. No significant results were found in subgroups by multivariate analysis. No significant results were found in studies outside Asia or in studies reported for cytoplasmic ERβ. Our results suggested that expression of ERβ might not be a direct prognostic factor for NSCLC patients. More detailed prospective studies are needed to identify direct prognostic factors in these patients.
Formononetin regulates endothelial nitric oxide synthase to protect vascular endothelium in deep vein thrombosis rats
Authors: Zhou Zhongxiao , Zhou Haimeng , Zou Xin , Wang Xiaowei , Yan Mengjun
Published: June 2022

Objective

Formononetin is a bioactive isoflavone that has numerous medicinal benefits. We explored the feasibility and its mechanism of formononetin on treating acute deep vein thrombosis (DVT) in rats.

Materials and methods

Inferior vena cava (IVC) stenosis was performed to establish the DVT rat model. First, different doses of formononetin were used to observe the feasibility of formononetin on treating DVT. In sham and DVT groups, rats were orally treated with vehicle. In the remaining groups, formononetin (10 mg/kg, 20 mg/kg, and 40 mg/kg) was orally treated once a day for 7 days at 24 h after IVC. After 7 days, the levels of thrombosis and inflammation related factors in plasma were measured. The expression of endothelial nitric oxide synthase (eNOS) was analyzed by western blot and immunofluorescence. Molecular docking was used to evaluate the interaction between the formononetin and eNOS. Further, the NOS inhibitor (L-NAME) was used to explore the mechanism of formononetin for DVT.

Result

After treatment with formononetin, the average weights of thrombosis were decreased, and the levels of thrombosis and inflammation related factors were also significantly decreased. Additionally, phosphorylation of eNOS was increased with the formononetin administration. There is a good activity of formononetin to eNOS (total score = −6.8). However, the effects of 40 mg/kg formononetin were concealed by the NOS inhibitor (L-NAME).

Conclusion

Formononetin reduces vascular endothelium injury induced by DVT through increasing eNOS in rats, which provides a potential drug for treatment of venous thrombosis.
What Do We Really Know about Productivity Differentials across Countries?
Authors: Ghosh Jayati
Published: June 2022

This article examines and critiques the most widely used measure of productivity (output per worker employed) and argues that this is a flawed, inadequate, and even misleading measure of economic progress. In terms of cross-country comparisons and assessing trends over time, both the numerator (GDP or value added) and the denominator (number of workers or hours worked) have significant conceptual and measurement problems. These issues are considered both in general and regarding how they affect analyses of productivity differentials in the United States and India in the recent period.

JEL Classification: B5, O47, E24
The Net Social Wage in Turkey, 1980–2019
Authors: Karabacak Yakup , Tonak E. Ahmet
Published: June 2022

This essay conceptualizes the capitalist state’s taxation and expenditure activities in Marx’s circuit of capital. It also empirically shows how the net social wage has evolved in Turkey in the period 1980–2019 and in what direction it has influenced the rate of surplus value. The essay’s empirical findings demonstrate the utter failure of the pseudo-welfare state of Turkey to ameliorate income distribution. Hence, the article contributes to demolishing the myth that the Islamist party AKP, in power since 2003, is pro-poor and pro-labor, and that its fiscal policies have been consistent with its glorified Islamic values and its self-ascribed image of an antipoverty stance.

JEL Classification: H2, H5, I30
Comparison of Perceptions of Activities of Daily Living of Adult Children with Autism Among Three Groups of Aging Caregivers
Authors: Marsack-Topolewski Christina N.
Published: June 2022

Many aging parents care for adult children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and an additional loved one. This exploratory study compared differences among compound 1 (caring for an additional family member), compound 2 (caring for a typically developing minor child), and noncompound (solely caring for an adult child with ASD) caregivers on perceptions of the degree of support that care recipients need to perform specific types activities of daily living (ADL) that care recipients need assistance to complete. Each caregiver cared for at least one adult child with ASD. Results from a web-based survey completed by 320 aging caregivers were examined using Kruskal-Wallis ANOVA tests for independent samples. Compound 1 and noncompound caregivers were more likely to be involved in assisting their adult children with some ADLs when compared with compound 2 caregivers. Findings provide insight into the realities of caregivers with regard to ADL needs of their adult children.
Transboundary movement of waste review: From binary towards a contextual framing
Authors: Thapa Kaustubh , Vermeulen Walter JV , Deutz Pauline , Olayide Olawale E
Published: June 2022

Multiple cases of toxic waste dumping from the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries to non-OECD countries in the 1980s led to scholarly attention to transboundary waste movements. The Basel Convention was established to provide an international legal framework to tackle such problems in the early 1990s, focusing on hazardous waste. However, the transboundary movement of all waste, not just hazardous waste, remains a societal challenge globally, frequently surfacing as an ethical question on the one hand and a story of resource management/trade on the other. This phenomenon has been studied across disciplines resulting in diverse, scattered and often contested understandings. Despite previous and ongoing efforts, waste production, management and transboundary movements are increasing and are predicted to grow significantly with global social, environmental and economic implications. This literature review uses a research synthesis and problematisation approach to critically analyse the transboundary waste literature since 1985. The findings highlight research trends, the need for data reliability and policy coherence, and the sustainability implications of the phenomenon. One recurring theme in the literature is the reduction of the complex phenomenon involving multiple countries, policies, actors and waste streams into simple opposite narratives, which we called transboundary waste binaries. We have identified and then challenged assumptions behind transboundary waste binaries and discussed the implications of such assumptions on the broader discourse. We have concluded with future research recommendations to look past the transboundary waste binaries towards a nuanced and contextual understanding of transboundary waste flows.
Evidence for Transition-Related Behaviors as an Explicit Criterion for Extended School Year Services Eligibility
Authors: Barnard-Brak Lucy , Filderman Marissa J. , Brewer Adam T. , Kudesey Carolina
Published: June 2022

We examined the association of students’ ability to transition on a daily basis (horizontal transitions) as reported by teachers with academic achievement as mediated by the summer Extended School Year (ESY) services received. Transitions from summer break to re-entry in the fall are referred to as a vertical transition. We examined these relationships via structural equation modeling techniques using multi-group modeling with respect to students with Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) versus students without IEPs. Among students with IEPs, increased ability to transition was significantly associated with increased academic achievement across time. The receipt of summer ESY services was strongly and significantly associated with increased academic achievement among students with IEPs. The receipt of summer ESY services was also significantly associated with increased ability to transition for these students with IEPs. This ability to transition may be even more impacted by the advent of the COVID-19 pandemic, which has disrupted learning for many school children.
Bright Light During Wakefulness Improves Sleep Quality in Healthy Men: A Forced Desynchrony Study Under Dim and Bright Light (III)
Authors: Lok R. , Woelders T. , Gordijn M. C. M. , van Koningsveld M. J. , Oberman K. , Fuhler S. G. , Beersma D. G. M. , Hut R. A.
Published: June 2022

Under real-life conditions, increased light exposure during wakefulness seems associated with improved sleep quality, quantified as reduced time awake during bed time, increased time spent in non-rapid eye movement (NREM) sleep, or increased power of the electroencephalogram delta band (0.5-4 Hz). The causality of these important relationships and their dependency on circadian phase and/or time awake has not been studied in depth. To disentangle possible circadian and homeostatic interactions, we employed a forced desynchrony protocol under dim light (6 lux) and under bright light (1300 lux) during wakefulness. Our protocol consisted of a fast cycling sleep-wake schedule (13 h wakefulness—5 h sleep; 4 cycles), followed by 3 h recovery sleep in a within-subject cross-over design. Individuals (8 men) were equipped with 10 polysomnography electrodes. Subjective sleep quality was measured immediately after wakening with a questionnaire. Results indicated that circadian variation in delta power was only detected under dim light. Circadian variation in time in rapid eye movement (REM) sleep and wakefulness were uninfluenced by light. Prior light exposure increased accumulation of delta power and time in NREM sleep, while it decreased wakefulness, especially during the circadian wake phase (biological day). Subjective sleep quality scores showed that participants rated their sleep quality better after bright light exposure while sleeping when the circadian system promoted wakefulness. These results suggest that high environmental light intensity either increases sleep pressure buildup during wakefulness or prevents the occurrence of micro-sleep, leading to improved quality of subsequent sleep.
Initiation of Antipsychotic Treatment for Amphetamine Induced Psychosis and Its Impact on Length of Stay
Authors: Herbst Claire , O’Connell Megan , Melton Brittany L. , Moeller Karen E.
Published: June 2022

Introduction: A risk of amphetamine use is amphetamine-induced psychosis (AIP). Symptoms of AIP include hallucinations, delusions, and agitation. While AIP may resolve with abstinence from amphetamines, antipsychotics are commonly used despite not being FDA approved. The primary objective of this study was to compare length of stay (LOS) for patients with AIP treated with antipsychotics vs untreated. Secondary aims were to determine antipsychotic prescribed, proportion of patients utilizing as needed doses, time to initiation, and readmissions. Methods: A retrospective chart review conducted at an academic medical center identified adult participants who were diagnosed with AIP, admitted to inpatient psychiatry service, and had a urine drug screen (UDS) positive for amphetamines. Patients were excluded if they were already taking an antipsychotic, had active prescriptions for amphetamine salts, or were in the emergency department for more than 48 hours. Demographics were assessed with descriptive statistics. Length of stay was compared between treatment groups using Kruskal-Wallis. Secondary aims were assessed using chi-square, Mann-Whitney U, and Kruskal-Wallis. Results: Sixty-nine patients were included. Median LOS for patients treated with antipsychotics (n = 35) was longer than untreated patients (n = 34), (5 days vs 2.5 days, P = .001). Type of antipsychotic used and time to initiation of antipsychotic were not found to affect LOS. There was no difference in readmissions rates and positive UDS on readmission between groups. Conclusion: This study found patients with scheduled antipsychotics for AIP had a longer LOS than patients who did not receive scheduled antipsychotics. Future studies are needed to evaluate antipsychotic use in AIP.
Metallurgical and machining performance aspects of cryotreated tungsten carbide micro-end mill cutters
Authors: Bhople Narendra , Mastud Sachin , Mittal Rinku
Published: June 2022

Demand for miniaturized parts with tight geometrical tolerances and superior surface finish has been increasing. Development of micromachining processes has enabled adaptation of miniaturized parts and products in mechanical systems. Machining at the microscale level has supplementary challenges like high cutting forces, reduced tool life, and damaged machined surfaces. Catastrophic failure of microtools is notable problem, if tool deflection increases significantly. Therefore, incorporating tool life improvement measures are essential to minimize tool replacement cost and also to achieve efficient cutting at micro-level. Cryotreatment imparts better physical properties to cutting tools. In the present work, effects of different cryogenic treatment parameters on micro tungsten carbide-cobalt (WC-Co) end mill cutters and its performance while machining Ti-6Al-4V have been investigated. The metallurgical changes imparted to cutting tool by cryotreatment are studied via micro-hardness test along with EDS, SEM and XRD methods. It is found that all cryotreated tools have higher hardness compared to untreated tools. Additional η (eta) carbide formation has been clearly observed for the tools soaked for 24 h, moreover a variation in other phase of WC is also observed for different set of cryotreatment. Machining process is significantly affected by the low thermal conductivity of Ti-6Al-4V. In case of untreated micro-milling tool, abrasive wear is dominant, whereas built-up-edge affected the performance of cryotreated tools at shallow cryotreatment temperatures for 8–16 h soaking time. Deep cryotreated tool (at 24 h soaking time) performed better in terms of cutting force and surface roughness due to retainment of sharp cutting edge.
A unified in-time correction-based testability growth model and its application on test planning
Authors: Li Xiaohua , Zhao Chenxu , Lu Bo
Published: June 2022

Test management is a critical problem for in-time correction-based testability growth test. For the existing testability growth model, they are either too complex to be implemented in practice, or do not have the ability to draw a smooth test planning/projecting curve. This paper proposes a unified model for in-time correction-based testability growth test and presents its application on the test planning. Firstly, a simple model with only three parameters is developed, and its compatibility with the original Markov model is proved. The revised model only has three parameters, which can reduce the complexity of parameters estimation and increase the certainty of the test planning. Secondly, the paper incorporates the simplified transition probability model with the test cost model and studies the optimal test planning method with the minimum test cost criterion. To illustrate the efficacy of the proposed model, an application of the model to an attitude control system of a helicopter available in the open literature is given. The simulation demonstrates that the model and the method proposed in this paper are reasonable, and they are useful for effectively managing the testability growth test planning problem during system maturation.
Open research data: A case study into institutional and infrastructural arrangements to stimulate open research data sharing and reuse
Authors: van Gend Thijmen , Zuiderwijk Anneke
Published: June 2022

This study investigates which combination of institutional and infrastructural arrangements positively impact research data sharing and reuse in a specific case. We conducted a qualitative case study of the institutional and infrastructural arrangements implemented at Delft University of Technology in the Netherlands. In the examined case, it was fundamental to change the mindset of researchers and to make them aware of the benefits of sharing data. Therefore, arrangements should be designed bottom-up and used as a “carrot” rather than as a “stick.” Moreover, support offered to researchers should cover at least legal, financial, administrative, and practical issues of research data management and should be informal in nature. Previous research describes generic institutional and infrastructural instruments that can stimulate open research data sharing and reuse. This study is among the first to analyze what and how infrastructural and institutional arrangements work in a particular context. It provides the basis for other scholars to study such arrangements in different contexts. Open data policymakers, universities, and open data infrastructure providers can use our findings to stimulate data sharing and reuse in practice, adapted to the contextual situation. Our study focused on a single case and a particular part of the university. We recommend repeating this research in other contexts, that is, at other universities, faculties, and involving other research data infrastructure providers.
Characteristics Associated With Mexican-American Hospice Use: Retrospective Cohort Study Using the Hispanic Established Population for the Epidemiologic Study of the Elderly (H-EPESE)
Authors: Shepard Victoria , Al Snih Soham , Burke Rebecca , Downer Brian , Kuo Yong-Fang , Malagaris Ioannis , Raji Mukaila
Published: June 2022

Background

Hospice use is lower among ethnic/racial minorities in the United States, though little is known about trends, associated factors and duration of hospice use by Mexican-Americans.

Aim

The purpose of this study is to examine Mexican-American characteristics associated with hospice stay, both ≤ and > 7 days.

Design

This retrospective cohort study used data from the Hispanic Established Population for the Epidemiological Study of the Elderly (H-EPESE) and the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to estimate the ORs and 95% CIs for hospice stay among Mexican-Americans, both ≤ and > 7 days.

Setting and participants

The first cohort (N = 970) includes H-EPESE participants who died between 2004 and 2016 who had Medicare parts A and B. The second cohort (N = 403) includes participants who completed the H-EPESE survey within the last 2 years of life.

Results

Although hospice use increased among Mexican-Americans between 2004 and 2016 (OR 1.88, 95% CI 1.19-2.97), 38% of participants died within the first week of hospice care. Mexican-Americans in New Mexico and Arizona were 2-4 times more likely to use hospice than those in Texas and Colorado. Dementia was associated with hospice use (OR 1.47, 95% CI 1.11-1.94). Characteristics, like church attendance and living alone, were not associated with hospice use.

Conclusions

The substantial proportion of Mexican-Americans with 7 days or less of hospice use underscores the need for early palliative/hospice intervention to mitigate variation in use.
Review of Tralokinumab in the Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis
Authors: Singh Rohan , Taylor Alexandra , Shah Milaan A. , Strowd Lindsay C. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: June 2022

Objective

To review pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of tralokinumab in treatment of atopic dermatitis (AD).

Data Sources

Literature review was conducted using MEDLINE (PubMed), EMBASE, and ClinicalTrials.gov for articles published between January 2010 and May 2022.

Study selection and data extraction

Articles in English discussing tralokinumab in AD were included.

Data synthesis

In one phase 2 trial, more subjects treated with tralokinumab 150 and 300 mg achieved an Investigator’s Global Assessment (IGA) of 0/1 with minimum ≥2 point IGA reduction (23%), versus placebo (11.8%, P = 0.10). During 2 phase 3 trials, more subjects treated with tralokinumab achieved IGA success (ECZTRA 1: 15.8% and ECZTRA 2: 22.2%), versus placebo (7.1% and 10.9%, respectively; P = 0.002 and P < 0.001). During one phase 3 trial, in conjunction with topical corticosteroids (TCS), more subjects treated with tralokinumab 300 mg achieved IGA success (ECZTRA 3: 38.9%), versus placebo (26.2%, P = 0.015). During another phase 3 trial in subjects with resistance or contraindication to oral cyclosporine, more subjects treated with tralokinumab 300 mg achieved an Eczema Area Severity Index 75 (64.2%), versus placebo (50.5%, P = 0.018).

Relevance to patient care and clinical practice

Tralokinumab is efficacious for moderate-to-severe AD, as monotherapy, in conjunction with TCS, and resistance or contraindication to cyclosporine. Although IL-4 and IL-13 are both implicated in AD’s pathogenesis, IL-13 is overexpressed, and head-to-head trials are needed to assess efficacy of tralokinumab, versus dupilumab. Compared with upadacitinib and abrocitinib, tralokinumab is not associated with black-box warnings.

Conclusions

Tralokinumab is an efficacious and safe systemic treatment for moderate-to-severe AD.
A Landscape of Ethics in Research-Based Theater: Staging Lives of Family Members Who Have Passed
Authors: Lea Graham W. , Belliveau George
Published: June 2022

Blending academic and theatrical worlds in research-based theater (RbT) requires balancing academic demands of institutionalized research and aesthetic demands of theater. This duality becomes particularly significant regarding ethics. With so much possibility, it becomes imperative for practitioners to share, and learn from, vulnerable and challenging ethical experiences. This creates landscapes of ethical possibilities for RbT and guideposts for navigating them, established by the field, highlighting well-worn paths, pointing out pitfalls, and noting where few have yet to trod. Contributing to this cartography, we consider ethical questions encountered during development and production of three RbT projects involving family members who have passed: Homa Bay Memories, Brothers, and Unload. In doing so, we question which stories might be best left untold and the evolution of relationships throughout the research. Exploring these together helps to develop a landscape of ethical possibilities and establish guideposts to help illuminate challenges for future RbT projects.
Experimental and numerical investigation on the buckling of 3D printed sandwich structure with lattice core
Authors: Cao Yiqun , Geng Xiaoliang , Han Hui , Lu Yahui , Wang Jun , Zhao Changan
Published: June 2022

In this paper, theoretical analysis, numerical simulation and mechanical test on the 3D printed lattice sandwich structures are carried out to study the buckling performance. 2 types of lattice structures, body centered cubic (BCC) and rhombic dodecahedron (DOD) are included. The lattice sandwich panels are made of ALSi10 Mg alloy materials and manufactured using the selective laser melting technique. The comparative results show that DOD lattice sandwich panel not only has higher bearing capacity, but also shows stronger toughness in the post-buckling stage than BCC type panel, even they have the same characteristic size. The buckling mode depends on the topology of the unit cell. For BCC and DOD type panels, the main buckling modes are local buckling and global buckling respectively. The reasons of different buckling modes are discussed. Moreover, the buckling evolution and failure modes of the two types of panels in the post-buckling stage are investigated.
How What We Ask Shapes What We Can Imagine: De-Coupling Design and Punishment
Authors: Agid Shana
Published: June 2022

The notion that policing and incarceration are permanent and necessary, if in need of reform or more “humane” design, guides contemporary practices of making in a range of design fields and, increasingly, designers’ forays into policy- and government service-making. These projects often take the form of spatial interventions and proposals for new jails, police stations, and, in some cases, the reorganization of the spaces around them. This article examines three projects—Chicago’s Polis Station, the New York City Justice Hubs, and the Oakland Power Projects—that contend with the infrastructure of the prison industrial complex, in part by asking people questions about policing and incarceration to envision what to build. Here, I focus on what shaped these questions, and how the questions in turn shaped the possibilities for design that emerged from them, in ways that matter deeply to the imbrication of architecture, design, and punishment.