bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Platelet count evaluation compared with the immunoplatelet reference method and performance evaluation of the hematology analyzer Celltac G
Authors: Yamade Kenji , Yamaguchi Toshihiro , Nagai Yutaka , Kamisako Toshinori
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The hematology analyzer, Celltac G (Nihon Kohden), designed to improve platelet count (Plt) accuracy, is equipped with new sheath flow control technology. Clinical evaluation of the Celltac G was assessed by comparability with XN‐9000 (Sysmex Corporation) and CELL‐DYN Sapphire (Abbott Diagnostics). The accuracy of all three analyzers, which use different measuring principles, was compared with the immunoplatelet reference method (FCM‐Ref).

Methods

Repeatability and within‐laboratory imprecision were assessed using 10 clinical fresh whole blood samples and three control materials with differing levels. Carryover was evaluated using 6 clinical fresh whole blood samples. For method comparison between the three analyzers, 388 samples were used. Plt accuracy among the three analyzers was evaluated using 54 blood samples, including 42 samples with a platelet count less than 50x109/L. The International Council for Standardization in Haematology method for Plt was used as the FCM‐Ref.

Results

The Celltac G showed sufficient performance with regard to imprecision, carryover, and comparability. The Analytical Measurement Interval (AMI) and linearity for all parameters of Plt were validated within 4.6 to 809.1 (×109/L). All hematology analyzers showed some disagreement in Plt when compared with the immunoplatelet reference method.

Conclusion

The Celltac G hematology analyzer is suitable for clinical use. Platelet count evaluation of the three analyzers suggests the need to determine a reportable measurement interval (RMI) in the clinical laboratory for adequate reporting of a Plt from multiple different values.
Examining competencies for the instructional design professional: An exploratory job announcement analysis
Authors: Wang Xiaoman , Chen Yan , Ritzhaupt Albert D. , Martin Florence
Published: February 2021

The purpose of this study is to examine core professional competencies for instructional designers through a job announcement analysis involving both qualitative and quantitative produces used on a qualitative data source. Using a conceptual framework as a guide, we extracted and examined a total of N = 1030 unique job announcements obtained from September to October 2019 from three popular job search databases: Glassdoor.com, Indeed.com and Monster.com. Using a systematic content analysis coding procedure, we coded the absence or presence of N = 185 competencies organized into knowledge, skill and ability statements (80 knowledge statements, 43 skill statements and 62 ability statements). These data were analysed using exploratory factor analysis models for dichotomously scored data, resulting in meaningful factors that are representative of these data. Our results highlight critical competencies for professional instructional designers in each domain, including soft skills, the ability to work with diverse stakeholders and more technical competencies like knowledge of video and audio authoring. The study provides a current snapshot of the knowledge, skills and abilities of instructional designers across settings. We provide a comprehensive discussion of our limitations, findings related to similar works, implications and suggestions for future research.
Impact of low‐dose tadalafil on adverse events after low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy for prostate cancer: A bi‐center randomized open‐label trial
Authors: Minagawa Tomonori , Oguchi Tomohiko , Saitou Tetsuichi , Fukazawa Ayumu , Hashida Iwao , Koiwai Keiichiro , Iijima Kazuyoshi , Kato Haruaki , Ogawa Teruyuki , Ishizuka Osamu
Published: February 2021

Objective

To study the efficacy of phosphodiesterase‐5 inhibitor tadalafil in attenuating adverse events after low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy for prostate cancer.

Methods

This was a randomized open‐label trial, conducted at two institutions. Prostate cancer patients undergoing low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy were randomly assigned to receive tadalafil (study group) or tamsulosin (control group). The primary endpoint was International Prostate Symptom Score for subjective evaluation of lower urinary tract symptoms. Uroflowmetry, postvoid residual urine volume, and Sexual Health Inventory for Men score were the secondary endpoints. Each clinical variable was evaluated during a follow‐up period of 1 year after low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy.

Results

A total of 107 patients were enrolled in this study, with a final total of 96 patients analyzed. The mean total International Prostate Symptom Score changes at 1, 3, 6, 9, and 12 months after low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy were +7.4, +7.1, +4.7, +1.5, and +0.8, respectively, in the tamsulosin group, and +8.5, +9.2, +6.4, +4.1, and +1.6, respectively, in the tadalafil group. There were no statistically significant differences in International Prostate Symptom Score with the exception of the score at 9‐month follow‐up. Moreover, there were no statistically significant differences in any of the uroflowmetry or postvoid residual urine volume findings. The Sexual Health Inventory for Men score in the tadalafil group was significantly higher than that in the tamsulosin group at 6, 9, and 12 months after low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy.

Conclusions

Tadalafil could be an effective option for the management of lower urinary tract symptoms after low‐dose‐rate brachytherapy.
Ambulatory robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with extended recovery by total extraperitoneal approach
Authors: Low Alvin WX , Chen Kenneth , Tan Yu Guang , Ng Tze Kiat , Yuen John Shyi P
Published: February 2021

Objective

To evaluate the feasibility of performing robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy in an ambulatory with extended recovery setting by using a total extraperitoneal approach.

Methods

Patients with low‐ to intermediate‐risk, prostate cancer were prospectively recruited in the ambulatory robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy with extended recovery by total extraperitoneal approach group (n = 30), and a matched‐pair inpatient surgery control group by total extraperitoneal approach (n = 20). Objective discharge criteria were based on the postanesthesia discharge scoring system. All patients underwent preoperative counseling on preoperative preparation and postoperative care.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between the ambulatory with extended recovery‐total extraperitoneal approach and inpatient‐total extraperitoneal approach groups in patient factors (age, body mass index, American Society of Anesthesiologists score, Charlson Comorbidity Index), disease factors (prostate‐specific antigen, clinical T stage, biopsy Gleason score, prostate volume) and peri‐operative parameters (operative time, blood loss, Trendelenburg angle). All total extraperitoneal robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy patients (ambulatory with extended recovery and inpatient surgery groups) met the postanesthesia discharge scoring system discharge criteria ≤23 h from admission. The mean hospital stays for ambulatory with extended recovery‐total extraperitoneal and inpatient‐total extraperitoneal groups were 20.3 and 52.4 h, respectively (P < 0.001). A total of 29 of 30 patients (97%) in the ambulatory with extended recovery‐total extraperitoneal group were discharged ≤23 h of admission.

Conclusions

This is the first prospective evaluation of robot‐assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy by the total extraperitoneal approach, showing that the short‐stay ambulatory with extended recovery approach is safe, feasible and with a high success rate. Total extraperitoneal surgical approach is a critical factor for the success of the ambulatory with extended recovery protocol.
Monocytes, macrophages, dendritic cells and neutrophils: an update on lifespan kinetics in health and disease
Authors: Patel Amit A. , Ginhoux Florent , Yona Simon
Published: February 2021

Phagocytes form a family of immune cells that play a crucial role in tissue maintenance and help orchestrate the immune response. This family of cells can be separated by their nuclear morphology into mononuclear and polymorphonuclear phagocytes. The generation of these cells in the bone marrow, to the blood and finally into tissues is a tightly regulated process. Ensuring the adequate production of these cells and their timely removal is key for both the initiation and resolution of inflammation. Insight into the kinetic profiles of innate myeloid cells during steady state and pathology will permit the rational development of therapies to boost the production of these cells in times of need or reduce them when detrimental.
The gender representation gap: implications for workplace union effectiveness
Authors: Greene Anne‐marie , Kirton Gill , Koumenta Maria , Humphris Amy
Published: February 2021

This article investigates how the gender of workplace representatives has implications for three dimensions of union effectiveness: (i) responsiveness to members, (ii) opportunity to influence management and (iii) ability to bring about change. Utilising original analysis of the 2011 Workplace Employment Relations Study, we examine three core elements of workplace employment relations processes that cut across the three dimensions: (i) workplace representation processes and employer support for union activity; (ii) substantive areas of representative involvement and (iii) quality of relations between union representatives and management, and between union representatives and employees. Our analysis highlights significant gender differences embedded in all three processes. The conclusion considers the broader implications of these findings for the gender equality project of British trade unions, beyond the objective of merely seeking to increase the numbers of women representatives.
The Ethics of Deliberate Exposure to SARS‐CoV‐2 to Induce Immunity
Authors: Streiffer Robert , Killoren David , Chappell Richard Y.
Published: February 2021

We explore the ethics of deliberately exposing consenting adults to SARS‐CoV‐2 to induce immunity to the virus (‘DEI’ for short). We explain what a responsible DEI program might look like. We explore a consequentialist argument for DEI according to which DEI is a viable harm‐reduction strategy. Then we consider a nonconsequentialist argument for DEI that draws on the moral significance of consent. Additionally, we consider arguments for the view that DEI is unethical on the grounds that, given that large‐scale DEI would be highly likely to result in some severe illnesses and deaths, DEI amounts to a form of killing. Our thesis is that incorporating a DEI program alongside the status quo ‘calibrate the curve’ responses could have significant advantages at the early stages of pandemics. These potential advantages mean that, at a minimum, research into DEI would have been justified early in the COVID‐19 pandemic and that DEI programs should be explored as potential additions to our overall approach to emerging pandemics in the future.
Deubiquitylation and stabilization of ARMC5 by ubiquitin‐specific processing protease 7 (USP7) are critical for RCC proliferation
Authors: Yan Guobei , Liu Na , Tian Jun , Fu Yanli , Wei Wei , Zou Jingjing , Li Suping , Wang Qing , Li Kai , Wang Junhua
Published: February 2021

The ubiquitin‐proteasome system is an essential regulator of ARMC5, which serves as a new tumour suppressor protein for inhibiting meningiomas and hereditary adrenocortical tumorigenesis. However, the precise mechanism for the deubiquitination of ARMC5 is still not fully understood. A Western blot analysis of ARMC5 was performed and showed that the expression of ARMC5 was decreased in the renal cancer cell tissues and lines. By screening a deubiquitinase library, we identified USP7 as a potential ARMC5 associated deubiquitinase. In this paper, we demonstrated that there was an interaction between USP7 and ARMC5 in vivo and in vitro. Employing the overexpression and knockdown assay indicated that USP7 could greatly increase the steady state of ARMC5 through the ubiquitin‐proteasome pathway and regulate ARMC5 ubiquitination. Moreover, USP7 altered cell cycle G1/S phases and regulated renal cancer cell proliferation by targeting ARMC5. Together, these results suggest that USP7 plays an important role in the RCC proliferation through modulating ARMC5 stability.
Development and verification of an immune‐related gene pairs prognostic signature in ovarian cancer
Authors: Zhang Bao , Nie Xiaocui , Miao Xinxin , Wang Shuo , Li Jing , Wang Shengke
Published: February 2021

Ovarian cancer (OV) is the most common gynaecological cancer worldwide. Immunotherapy has recently been proven to be an effective treatment strategy. The work here attempts to produce a prognostic immune‐related gene pair (IRGP) signature to estimate OV patient survival. The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) and Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) databases provided the genetic expression profiles and clinical data of OV patients. Based on the InnateDB database and the least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression model, we first identified a 17‐IRGP signature associated with survival. The average area under the curve (AUC) values of the training, validation, and all TCGA sets were 0.869, 0.712, and 0.778, respectively. The 17‐IRGP signature noticeably split patients into high‐ and low‐risk groups with different prognostic outcomes. As suggested by a functional study, some biological pathways, including the Toll‐like receptor and chemokine signalling pathways, were significantly negatively correlated with risk scores; however, pathways such as the p53 and apoptosis signalling pathways had a positive correlation. Moreover, tumour stage III, IV, grade G1/G2, and G3/G4 samples had significant differences in risk scores. In conclusion, an effective 17‐IRGP signature was produced to predict prognostic outcomes in OV, providing new insights into immunological biomarkers.
MUC16 promotes EOC proliferation by regulating GLUT1 expression
Authors: Wang Fang , Zhang Qing , Zhang Hailing , Qiao Xiaogai , Zhang Xia , Zhang Ke , Gu Xiaoli , Wang Lihong , Cui Jinquan
Published: February 2021

As a common malignancy in females with a higher incidence rate, epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a heterogeneous disease with complexity and diversity in histology and therapeutic response. Although great progress has been made in diagnosis and therapeutic strategies, novel therapeutic strategies are required to improve survival. Although the promoting effect of mucin 16 (MUC16) on tumour progression has been reported, the potential mechanisms remain unclear. In our study, we reported that overexpression of MUC16 was significantly related to cell proliferation and disease progression in EOC. Results from clinical specimen analysis and cell experiment support this conclusion. Patients with a high MUC16 expression usually had a worse prognosis that those with a low expression. Cell proliferation ability was significantly decreased in EOC cell lines when the knockdown of MUC16. Further study shows that the function of MUC16 in cell proliferation is based on the regulation of glucose transporter 1 (GLUT1) expression. MUC16 can control glucose uptake by regulating GLUT1 in EOC cells, thereby promoting glycogen synthesis, so that tumour cells produce more energy for proliferation. This conclusion is based on two findings. First, the significant correlation between MUC16 and GLUT1 was verified by clinical specimen and TCGA data analysis. Then, alteration of MUC16 expression levels can affect the expression of GLUT1 and glucose uptake was also verified. Finally, this conclusion is further verified in vivo by tumour‐bearing mice model. To summarize, our results suggest that MUC16 promotes EOC proliferation and disease progression by regulating GLUT1 expression.
Ego versus Alter: Internal and External Perceptions of the EU's Role in Global Environmental Negotiations
Authors: Delreux Tom , Pipart Frauke
Published: February 2021

This paper compares how European and non‐European participants in international environmental negotiations perceive the EU's role in such negotiations. Three dimensions of the EU's role (environmental ambition, diplomatic activity and influence) are assessed in three UN‐wide environmental forums (the Basel, Rotterdam and Stockholm Conventions on chemicals, the Convention on Biological Diversity, and the United Nations Environment Assembly). The paper presents original data collected through an online survey with 659 delegates who participated in the negotiations in the three forums in the period 2018–19. Comparing the ego perception of delegates from the EU with the alter view of delegates from non‐EU countries, the paper finds that the ego and alter perceptions of the EU's ambition, diplomatic activities and influence are largely similar. Both ego and alter see the EU as a highly ambitious, active and influential actor in global environmental negotiations.
Nondestructive detection for egg freshness based on hyperspectral imaging technology combined with harris hawks optimization support vector regression
Authors: Yao Kunshan , Sun Jun , Zhang Lin , Zhou Xin , Tian Yan , Tang Ningqiu , Wu Xiaohong
Published: February 2021

Haugh unit (HU) is an important freshness indicator of eggs. In order to detect HU nondestructively and rapidly, hyperspectral imaging (HSI) technology was employed in this study. A total of 350 newborn pink‐shell eggs were stored at 25°C and were measured every 3 days by HSI system in the spectral range of 401–1,002 nm. A method of combing leverage value with Cook's distance was used to eliminate outlier samples. The feature wavelengths related to HU were mainly between 530 and 800 nm identified by successive projections algorithm (SPA) and bootstrapping soft shrinkage (BOSS). Finally, a harris hawks optimization support vector regression (HHO‐SVR) model was proposed to predict the HU of egg samples, and compared with GA‐SVR, ABC‐SVR, and GWO‐SVR. The results showed that the HHO‐SVR has higher prediction accuracy and stronger robustness, withR2pof 0.9523 and RMSEP of 3.0423. The brown‐shell egg was also taken as the research object to further verify the universality of the proposed methods, and the result indicates that the potential of HSI technology as a nondestructive tool in egg freshness detection.
Macro‐encapsulation of mesenchymal stem cells in acute and chronic liver injury animal models
Authors: Kang Hyeon Tae , Jang Kiseok , Jun Dae Won , Yoon Eileen L , Lee Seung Min , Saeed Waqar Khalid , Lee Jin Ho
Published: February 2021

Background and Aim

Stem cell treatments using scaffolds for liver disease have been well studied. However, macro‐encapsulation of mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) to minimize or inhibit stem cell homing has not been evaluated. Here, we conducted a proof‐of‐concept study using MSCs macro‐encapsulated in poly lactic‐co‐glycolic acid in liver disease models.

Methods

Poly lactic‐co‐glycolic acid semipermeable membranes (surface pore size up to 40 μm) were used as the macro‐encapsulation system. Macro‐encapsulated pouches were loaded with MSCs and sealed. Each pouch was implanted in the subcutaneous region of the dorsum or interlobular space of the liver. Acute liver injury was induced using thioacetamide intraperitoneal injection thrice a week. For the chronic liver fibrosis model, thioacetamide dose was gradually increased, starting from 100 to 400 mg/kg over 16 weeks (thrice a week).

Results

In the acute liver injury model, the treated groups showed decreased liver inflammation and necrosis compared with the control. Hepatic fibrosis decreased in the treated group in the chronic liver fibrosis model compared with that in the control group. Encapsulated MSCs exhibited changed cell morphology and characteristics after implantation, showing increased periodic acid–Schiff staining and CYP2E1 expression. Migration and homing of MSCs into the liver was not observed. Under hypoxic conditions, macro‐encapsulated MSCs secreted more growth hormones, including vascular endothelial growth factor, platelet‐derived growth factor, angiopoietin‐2, and placental growth factor, than monolayered MSCs in vitro.

Conclusions

Macro‐encapsulated MSCs attenuate hepatic inflammation and fibrosis by upregulating hypoxia‐induced growth hormone secretion in liver disease models.
Early course of newly diagnosed moderate‐to‐severe ulcerative colitis in Korea: Results from a hospital‐based inception cohort study (MOSAIK)
Authors: Yoon Jin Young , Cha Jae Myung , Lee Chang Kyun , Park Young Sook , Huh Kyu Chan , Shin Jeong Eun , Kim You Sun , Eun Chang Soo , Yoon Soon Man , Cheon Jae Hee , Park Young Soo , Ye Byong Duk , Lee YoungJa , Kim Youngdoe , Kim Hyo Jong ,   the MOSAIK study group of the Korean Association for the Study of Intestinal Diseases (KASID)
Published: February 2021

Background and Aim

No inception cohort study has ever evaluated the early course of moderate‐to‐severe ulcerative colitis (UC) within 1 year of diagnosis in the non‐Caucasian population. We aimed to investigate the early clinical course of moderate‐to‐severe UC patients in terms of remission, relapse, UC‐related hospitalizations, colectomy, mortality, and overall use of medications.

Methods

In the MOSAIK inception cohort, which is an ongoing multicenter, prospective, hospital‐based, observational cohort, 354 patients with moderate‐to‐severe UC were followed up for 1 year. Main outcomes of UC and predictive factors for medication use over the course of 1 year were evaluated.

Result

Among 354 patients, 276 (78.0%) patients were followed up for 1 year. The rates of remission, relapse, UC‐related hospitalizations, and proximal disease extension were 95.3%, 39.6%, 15.2%, and 12.3%, respectively. Systemic corticosteroids, thiopurines, and biologics were administered to 61.2%, 30.4%, and 10.5% of patients, respectively, throughout 1 year. One year after, 58.2% patients experienced remission or mild endoscopic activity. Overall disease courses did not show much difference according to moderate or severe disease activity at baseline. In addition, no colectomy and mortality were observed for 1 year. Predictive factors for medication use included disease severity, disease extent, endoscopic severity, and presence of periappendiceal inflammation at baseline for corticosteroid, disease extent and initial corticosteroid use for thiopurine, and only initial corticosteroid use for biologics.

Conclusion

Korean patients with moderate‐to‐severe UC may have more favorable early outcomes than Western patients. However, outcomes of them need to be further looked into for a longer time.
SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody detection in skilled nursing facility residents
Authors: White Elizabeth M. , Saade Elie A. , Yang Xiaofei , Canaday David H. , Blackman Carolyn , Santostefano Christopher M. , Nanda Aman , Feifer Richard A. , Mor Vincent , Rudolph James L. , Gravenstein Stefan
Published: February 2021

Objective

To describe the frequency and timing of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) antibody detection in a convenience sample of skilled nursing facility (SNF) residents with and without confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection.

Design

Retrospective analysis of SNF electronic health records.

Setting

Qualitative SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody test results were available from 81 SNFs in 16 states.

Participants

Six hundred and sixty nine SNF residents who underwent both polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and antibody testing for SARS‐CoV‐2.

Measurements

Presence of SARS‐CoV‐2 antibodies following the first positive PCR test for confirmed cases, or first PCR test for non‐cases.

Results

Among 397 residents with PCR‐confirmed infection, antibodies were detected in 4 of 7 (57.1%) tested within 7–14 days of their first positive PCR test; in 44 of 47 (93.6%) tested within 15–30 days; in 182 of 219 (83.1%) tested within 31–60 days; and in 110 of 124 (88.7%) tested after 60 days. Among 272 PCR negative residents, antibodies were detected in 2 of 9 (22.2%) tested within 7–14 days of their first PCR test; in 41 of 81 (50.6%) tested within 15–30 days; in 65 of 148 (43.9%) tested within 31–60 days; and in 9 of 34 (26.5%) tested after 60 days. No significant differences in baseline resident characteristics or symptoms were observed between those with versus without antibodies.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that vulnerable older adults can mount an antibody response to SARS‐CoV‐2, and that antibodies are most likely to be detected within 15–30 days of diagnosis. That antibodies were detected in a large proportion of residents with no confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection highlights the complexity of identifying who is infected in real time. Frequent surveillance and diagnostic testing based on low thresholds of clinical suspicion for symptoms and/or exposure will remain critical to inform strategies designed to mitigate outbreaks in SNFs while community SARS‐CoV‐2 prevalence remains high.
The Shadow Margins of Labor Market Slack
Authors: FABERMAN R. JASON , MUELLER ANDREAS I. , ŞAHIN* AYŞEGÜL , TOPA GIORGIO
Published: February 2021

We use a mix of new and existing data to develop the Aggregate Hours Gap (AHG), a novel measure of labor market underutilization. Our measure differentiates individuals by detailed categories of labor market participation and uses data on their desired work hours as a measure of their potential labor supply. We show that desired hours vary widely by demographics and detailed labor force status, and that the gap between desired and actual work hours is strongly positively correlated with reported search effort. The AHG suggests a more sluggish labor market recovery since the Great Recession than either the official unemployment rate or alternative measures of labor market underutilization. Modest amounts of underutilization among the part‐time employed and a substantial degree of underutilization among those out of the labor force account for the disparity. The AHG also does well in accounting for wage movements over our sample period.
Bond Risk Premia and The Exchange Rate
Authors: HOFMANN BORIS , SHIM ILHYOCK , SHIN HYUN SONG
Published: February 2021

In emerging market economies, currency appreciation goes hand in hand with compressed sovereign bond spreads, even for local currency sovereign bonds. This yield compression comes from a reduction in the credit risk premium. Crucially, the relevant exchange rate involved in yield compression is the bilateral U.S. dollar exchange rate, not the trade‐weighted exchange rate. Our findings highlight endogenous co‐movement of bond risk premia and exchange rates through the portfolio choice of global investors who evaluate returns in dollar terms.
A Further Look at the Propagation of Monetary Policy Shocks in HANK
Authors: ALVES FELIPE , KAPLAN GREG , MOLL BENJAMIN , VIOLANTE GIOVANNI L.
Published: February 2021

We provide quantitative guidance on whether and to what extent different elements of Heterogeneous Agent New Keynesian (HANK) models amplify or dampen the response of aggregate consumption to a monetary policy shock. We emphasize four findings. First, the introduction of capital adjustment costs does not affect the aggregate response, but does change the transmission mechanism so that a larger share of indirect effects originates from equity prices rather than from labor income. Second, incorporating estimated unequal incidence functions for aggregate labor income fluctuations leads to either amplification or dampening, depending on the data and estimation methods. Third, distribution rules for monopoly profits that allocate a larger share to liquid assets lead to greater amplification. Fourth, assumptions about the fiscal reaction to a monetary policy shock have a stronger effect on the aggregate consumption response than any of the other three elements.
Left behind parents: A qualitative study on the experience of parental abduction of a child in Portugal
Authors: Tavares Ana , Crespo Carla , Ferreira Luana , Ribeiro Maria T.
Published: February 2021

Parental abduction of a child occurs when the child is removed, by one parent, from the custody of the other parent or legally appointed guardians. The absence of the child has a profound impact on family members and significantly affects their lives. Also, parental abduction of a child is a relevant social problem which calls for further understanding. The aim of this research was to characterize the experiences of left behind parents in the context of parental abduction of a child. The data for this exploratory qualitative study were analyzed through thematic analysis of the semi‐structured interviews carried out with eight male participants in Portugal. Participants' perceptions were organized around three main themes: the impact of this adverse event on different areas of their lives, recovery strategies, and perspectives regarding the future. Findings and their implications for professionals working with these families are discussed in light of the ambiguous loss and ambiguous boundaries frameworks.
Acute isolated trigeminal neuropathy following calcium hydroxylapatite‐based soft tissue filler injection: A case report
Authors: Mingazova Leniza , Karpova Elena , Murakov Stanislav , Orlova Olga , Golubev Valery , Cotofana Sebastian
Published: February 2021

Background

Soft tissue filler injections are frequently performed with a relatively low number of severe adverse events reported. While venous complications have been described, the majority of adverse events are generally associated with the arterial vascular system. Intra‐arterial product application can present with pain, skin discoloration, and potential tissue loss and/or injection related visual compromise.

Aim

We present the clinical case and the consecutive symptomology of a 39‐year‐old woman injected with calcium hydroxylapatite at the zygomatic arch with five perpendicular needle (27G 12mm) supraperiosteal bolus injections of 0.2 cc per site.

Methods

Immediately after the injections, weakness, nausea, vomiting, and loss of consciousness occurred. Additionally, left‐sided loss of sensation of her face, scalp, oral, and nasal mucosa occurred, with absence of left corneal reflex and ipsi‐lateral ear congestion. Subsequently, left‐sided masseteric atrophy and dysphagia occurred.

Results

One year after the injection procedure the sensory loss of her facial skin and scalp persisted, while the other symptoms improved. Medications involved in the symptomatic (not causal) partial recovery process were Dexamethasone, Vitamin B complex, Vinpocetine, Pentoxifyllin, and Thioctic acid.

Conclusion

The symptoms presented and the time‐related relationship to the injection procedure increases the likeliness of an association between the administration of the calcium hydroxylapatite product and a lesion of the trigeminal ganglion. The resulting symptoms can altogether be related to the functions of the ganglion. The connecting pathway between the injection site and the ganglion can be explained by the arterial vascular pathway.
Evaluation of evidence for exercise intervention in patients with cancer‐related fatigue during chemoradiotherapy
Authors: Song Jihong , Wang Tao , Wang Yujie , Hong Jinsheng , Li Rong , Niu Sitian , Zhuo Litao , Li Xiaomei
Published: February 2021

Aim and objectives

This systematic review evaluated evidence quality for exercise intervention in patients with cancer‐related fatigue (CRF) during chemoradiotherapy to provide evidence‐based clinical guidance.

Background

Cancer‐related fatigue is one of the most common symptoms in patients undergoing chemoradiotherapy. There is mounting evidence suggests exercise can relieve CRF and clinical practice guidelines for its management have been published in several countries. However, more specific exercise programmes need to be extracted to guide the clinical practice.

Design

The review was presented by PRISMA guidelines. Research questions and strategies were established using evidence‐based nursing criteria. Eleven websites and databases were searched. Appraisal of Guidelines for Research and Evaluation II, the JBI literature quality assessment tool, and the JBI evidence pre‐classification and evidence recommendation level system were used.

Results

Thirteen systematic reviews, four guidelines and one evidence summary were included. The overall guideline quality score was 5.71, indicating high quality, with the following average scores on the six dimensions: scope and purpose, 86.81%; stakeholder group, 71.53%; rigour of the writing, 76.56%; clarity of presentation, 88.19%; applicability, 68.23%; and independence, 72.92%. We summarised 18 pieces of evidence including screening and assessment of CRF and exercise risk, health education, sports programme, sports protection and termination index. There were 12, 1, 1 and 4 pieces of evidence in grades I, II, III and IV, respectively. The evidence recommendation was strong for 15 and weak for three articles.

Conclusion

Although a normal adult exercise intensity level is considered safe for patients during chemoradiotherapy, our synthesis suggests that 18 pieces of evidence shall be followed. Future research should focus on more cancer types and more targeted exercise programme design.

Relevance to clinical practice

Cancer‐related fatigue status and exercise risk should be screened and evaluated throughout exercise interventions. Interventions should be individualised, initiated at a low intensity and duration, and increased progressively.
The components of personal passports for people living with dementia in an acute healthcare setting: an integrative review
Authors: Beattie Fiona , Kerr Lisa , Larkin John , Cawley Des
Published: February 2021

Aim

To explore the components of personal passports for people living with dementia in an acute healthcare setting.

Background

Globally, supporting people with dementia poses a prominent health and social care challenge. Importance for people with dementia in an acute healthcare setting includes social relationships and communication with healthcare staff. A personal passport is an international initiative designed to support the personhood of the person living with dementia.

Methods

This integrative review is based on the methodology of Whittmore and Knafl (2005). The Preferred Reporting for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines and checklist were adhered to. A database search of PubMed, MEDLINE, CINAHL, Scopus and EBSCO databases was systematically performed.

Results

This integrative review identified nine research studies on the components of personal passports that met the inclusion and exclusion criteria. A constant comparative method of data analysis identified five key pivotal themes: person‐centredness, communication, family/carer involvement, education and leadership.

Conclusion

The use of personal passports supports the provision of person‐centred care for people living with dementia through enhancing the well‐being of both the person and their families/caregivers.

Relevance to clinical practice

Personal passports are an important document and should be determined by the person with dementia, their care needs and the caregiver's role in meeting these needs.
Leadership self‐perception of clinical nurses at the bedside: A qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Booher Lydia , Yates Erica , Claus Stacey , Haight Kelly , Burchill Christian N.
Published: February 2021

Aim & Objective

Explore leadership self‐perception of clinical nurses at the bedside and their perception of leadership on patient care and outcomes.

Background

According to Institute of Medicine Future of Nursing Report, nurses are called to exhibit leadership at every level. Published research on nursing leadership is primarily focused on formal leaders. Research examining leadership at the clinical nurse level has either tested application of a particular leadership model or studied nurses who have been identified as informal clinical leaders. We took an inductive approach without any prior knowledge if participating clinical nurses viewed themselves as leaders.

Design

Descriptive qualitative method was used.

Methods

Four focus groups were conducted with a total of 20 clinical nurses from 2 hospitals within an integrated health system using a convenience sampling method until saturation was reached. The Consolidated criteria for Reporting Qualitative research (COREQ) was used to report findings.

Results

All participants identified qualities they admired in leaders. Fifty percent did not initially view themselves as leaders until they realised that they often demonstrated those same leadership qualities in providing nursing care to patients and families. Participants struggled to make a connection between their leadership at the bedside and patient outcomes.

Conclusions

Clinical nurses assume a formal title is required to be a leader. Findings from this study imply that leadership attributes required at point of care are embedded in the nursing practice and look similar to servant leadership.

Relevance to clinical practice

Leadership is in the nature of nursing practice, and more work is required to increase awareness that every nurse is a leader. Further efforts need to be pursued to help clinical nurses become self‐aware they are leaders in order to impact patient outcomes and transform health care from bottom‐up and inside‐out.
The Influence of Age and Facial Expression (Eye Open/Closed) On Maxillary Dental and Gingival Display
Authors: Bidra Avinash S. , Persenaire Mitchell , Kuo Chia‐Ling
Published: February 2021

Purpose

To assess if there are any differences in maxillary dentogingival exposure between different facial expressions (maximum smile with eyes open and eyes closed), age groups and both sexes.

Material and Methods

Digital photographs of the lower third of the face of 120 subjects, belonging to 6 different age groups were taken. There were 20 subjects in each of the 6 age groups (20‐30, 30‐40, 40‐50, 50‐60, 60‐70, and 70‐80) which were comprised of 80 women and 40 men. Two standardized images of each subject were taken, one of maximum smile with eyes open, and the second of maximum smile with eyes closed. These 240 images were used to quantify a dentogingival exposure ratio (DER) for each tooth spanning the second bicuspids on either side, using standardized measurement techniques. Additionally, incidence of interdental papilla visibility was studied in a binary manner, and all data were studied with respect to various covariables of age, sex and type of facial expression using a generalized linear mixed effects model. A p‐value < 0.05 was determined to be statistically significant.

Results

There was a statistically significant difference between the dentogingival exposure ratio (DER) for all images with eyes open and eyes closed per tooth location studied, across all age groups (p ≤ 0.001) and both sexes, suggesting that subject images of smiles with eyes closed had significantly higher dentogingival exposure. There was a decreasing trend of DER with increasing age groups when eyes were open (p = 0.005) and when eyes were closed (p = 0.042), suggesting that older subjects had lower dentogingival exposure. With respect to sex, there was no statistically significant difference in mean DER between males and females, when eyes were open (p = 0.430) and closed (p = 0.351). The incidence of interdental papilla exposure also differed significantly between images with eyes open and eyes closed across all age groups (p ≤ 0.001). However, the incidence of interdental papilla exposure decreased with age, only in images with eyes open (p < 0.001) but was not statistically significant among images with eyes closed (p = 0.127). With respect to sex, there was a significant difference in incidence of interdental papilla exposure in images with eyes open (p = 0.029) but no significant difference when eyes were closed (p = 0.782).

Conclusions

Maxillary dentogingival exposure decreases with increasing age and is significantly higher when recording maximum smile with eyes closed, for all age groups and both sexes. As this is a simple and clinically reproducible facial expression, incorporating patient's maximum smiling images with eyes closed may be routinely necessary for complete and accurate data collection for prosthodontic treatment planning purposes.
Proteinuria in dogs with gallbladder mucocele formation: A retrospective case control study
Authors: Lindaberry Crystal , Vaden Shelly , Aicher Kathleen M. , Seiler Gabriela , Robertson James , Cianciolo Rachel , Yang Ching , Gookin Jody L.
Published: February 2021

Background

Proteinuria is an independent risk factor for morbidity and mortality in dogs. An association between proteinuria and gallbladder mucocele formation in dogs is unknown.

Objective

Determine if gallbladder mucocele formation or clinicopathologic comorbidities are associated with proteinuria.

Animals

Twenty‐five dogs with mucocele formation and 25 breed and age‐matched control dogs from a prior study.

Methods

Retrospective case control study. Proteinuria defined by calculated urine dipstick protein concentration (mg/mL) to urine specific gravity (USG) ratio. Clinicopathologic findings, postcosyntropin cortisol concentration, thyroid function profile, and illness severity score were recorded.

Results

Median urine dipstick protein concentration to USG ratio and number of dogs having a ratio ≥1.5 were significantly higher for dogs with mucocele formation compared to control dogs. Proteinuria was not significantly associated with CBC or serum biochemistry profile abnormalities but increased in relation to severity of illness.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Gallbladder mucocele formation is significantly associated with proteinuria in dogs. Diagnosis and treatment of proteinuria in dogs with mucocele formation might minimize long term kidney morbidity in these patients.
Distributional Learning of Speech Sounds: An Exploratory Study Into the Effects of Prior Language Experience
Authors: Chládková Kateřina , Šimáčková Šárka
Published: February 2021

Distributional learning is typically understood as (unattended) tracking of stimulus probabilities. Distributional training with speech yields mixed results and the influencing factors have not yet been fully investigated. This study explored whether prior linguistic experience could have an effect on distributional learning outcomes. Czech and Greek adults, whose native languages contain and lack abstract length categories, respectively, were exposed to novel vowels falling into unimodal or bimodal distributions along the durational dimension. A trending interaction suggested that the Czechs and the Greeks might have been affected differently by the distributional exposure. Improved discrimination of the “trained” contrast was observed in bimodally exposed Czechs (whose prior expectations about length categories could guide learning) and, rather surprisingly, in unimodally exposed Greeks (who, lacking any expectations, might have listened in a noncategorical, auditory mode). Prior linguistic experience could thus affect whether and how experienced language users exploit new distributional speech statistics. This proposal needs to be assessed in future studies.
Effects of two personalized dietary strategies during a 2‐year intervention in subjects with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease: A randomized trial
Authors: Marin‐Alejandre Bertha A. , Cantero Irene , Perez‐Diaz‐del‐Campo Nuria , Monreal Jose I. , Elorz Mariana , Herrero Jose I. , Benito‐Boillos Alberto , Quiroga Jorge , Martinez‐Echeverria Ana , Uriz‐Otano Juan I. , Huarte‐Muniesa Maria P. , Tur Josep A. , Martinez Jose A. , Abete Itziar , Zulet Maria A.
Published: February 2021

Background and objectives

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) management is focused on lifestyle modifications, but long‐term maintenance is a challenge for many individuals. This study aimed to evaluate the long‐term effects of two personalized energy‐restricted dietary strategies on weight loss, metabolic and hepatic outcomes in overweight/obese subjects with NAFLD.

Methods

Ninety‐eight subjects from the Fatty Liver in Obesity (FLiO) study (NCT03183193) were randomly assigned to the American Heart Association (AHA) or the FLiO dietary group in a 2‐year controlled trial. Anthropometry, body composition (DXA), biochemical parameters and hepatic status (ultrasonography, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and elastography) were assessed at baseline, 6, 12 and 24 months.

Results

Both the AHA and FLiO diets significantly reduced body weight at 6 (−9.7% vs −10.1%), 12 (−6.7% vs −9.6%), and 24 months (−4.8% vs −7.6%) with significant improvements in body composition, biochemical and liver determinations throughout the intervention. At the end of the follow‐up, the FLiO group showed a greater decrease in ALT, liver stiffness and Fatty Liver Index, among others, compared to AHA group, although these differences were attenuated when the analyses were adjusted by weight loss percentage. The FLiO group also showed a greater increase in adiponectin compared to AHA group.

Conclusions

The AHA and FLiO diets were able to improve body weight and body composition, as well as metabolic and hepatic status of participants with overweight/obesity and NAFLD within a 2‐year follow‐up. These findings show that both strategies are suitable alternatives for NAFLD management. However, the FLiO strategy may provide more persistent benefits in metabolic and hepatic parameters.
Asset pricing with general transaction costs: Theory and numerics
Authors: Gonon Lukas , Muhle‐Karbe Johannes , Shi Xiaofei
Published: February 2021

We study risk‐sharing equilibria with general convex costs on the agents' trading rates. For an infinite‐horizon model with linear state dynamics and exogenous volatilities, we prove that the equilibrium returns mean‐revert around their frictionless counterparts—the deviation has Ornstein‐Uhlenbeck dynamics for quadratic costs whereas it follows a doubly‐reflected Brownian motion if costs are proportional. More general models with arbitrary state dynamics and endogenous volatilities lead to multidimensional systems of nonlinear, fully‐coupled forward‐backward SDEs. These fall outside the scope of known well‐posedness results, but can be solved numerically using the simulation‐based deep‐learning approach of Han, Jentzen, and E (2018). In a calibration to time series of prices and trading volume, realistic liquidity premia are accompanied by a moderate increase in volatility. The effects of different cost specifications are rather similar, justifying the use of quadratic costs as a proxy for other less tractable specifications.