bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term trend in socioeconomic inequalities and geographic variation in the utilization of antenatal care service in India between 1998 and 2015
Authors: Lee Hwa‐Young , Oh Juhwan , Kim Rockli , Subramanian S.V.
Published: March 2020

Objective

To investigate the temporal trend of socioeconomic and rural‐urban disparities and geographical variation in the utilization of antenatal care (ANC) services in India before and throughout the Millennium Development Goals era.

Data Sources/Study Setting

For this temporal analysis, secondary data from the Indian National Family Health Surveys between 1998 and 2015 (Waves 2, 3, and 4) were used.

Study Design

We analyzed the trend in inequality for at least one and four ANC visits to a health care professional (ANC1+ and ANC4+, respectively) by education, wealth, and residence type. Multilevel logistic regression models were used to assess the temporal trend and the relative contribution of communities and states to the overall variation in ANC1+ and ANC4+.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Data on utilization of ANC services for the last birth of women aged 15‐49 years during the three or five years preceding the survey (depending on the survey year) were used.

Principal Findings

Educational and wealth inequality in ANC1+ and ANC4+ worsened between 1998 and 2005 and improved between 2005 and 2015 (for ANC4+, OR [95% CI] = 0.22 [0.19‐0.25] in Wave 2; OR [95% CI] = 0.19 [0.17‐0.22] in Wave 3; and OR [95% CI] = 0.38 [0.36‐0.40] in Wave 4 for the poorest). Rural‐urban inequality showed a consistent decline (for ANC4+, OR [95% CI] = 0.59 [0.54‐0.64] in Wave 2; OR [95% CI] = 0.63 [0.59‐0.68] in Wave 3; and OR [95% CI] = 0.82 [0.79‐0.85] in Wave 4 for rural area). The relative contribution of the community to the total geographic variation in the utilization of ANC services increased more than four times during the study period.

Conclusions

The use of ANC services remains disproportionately lower among women with low socioeconomic status. Efforts to directly target these women are necessary to tackle inequality in ANC utilization in India.
Quantifying and Ranking Quality for Acquired Recordings on Digital Video Recorders
Authors: Bruehs Walter E. , Stout Dorothy
Published: March 2020

As the closed‐circuit television (CCTV) security industry transitioned from analog media to digital video recorders (DVRs) with digital storage, the law enforcement community struggled with the means with which to collect the recordings. New guidelines needed to be established to determine the collection method which would be efficient as well as provide the best quality evidence from live DVRs. A test design was developed to measure, quantify, and rank the quality of acquisition methods used on live systems from DVRs typically used in digital CCTV systems. The purpose was to determine guidelines for acquiring the best quality video for investigative purposes. A test pattern which provided multiple quantifiable metrics for comparison between the methods of acquisition was used. The methods of acquisition included direct data download of the proprietary file and open file format as well as recording the video playback from the DVR via the available display monitor connections including the composite video, Video Graphics Array (VGA), and high‐definition multimedia interface (HDMI). While some acquisition methods may provide the best quality evidence, other methods of acquisition are not to be discounted depending on the situation and need for efficiency. As an investigator that needs to retrieve video evidence from live digital CCTV systems, the proprietary file format, overall, provides the best quality evidence. However, depending on the circumstance and as recording technology continues to evolve, options other than the proprietary file format may provide quality that is equal to or greater than the proprietary file format.
Comparison of species richness and detection between line transects, ground camera traps, and arboreal camera traps
Authors: Moore J. F. , Pine W. E. , Mulindahabi F. , Niyigaba P. , Gatorano G. , Masozera M. K. , Beaudrot L.
Published: March 2020

Monitoring trends in the occurrence of species over time is important for informing conservation plans and concurrent management actions. Understanding the effectiveness of field methodologies for collecting accurate and precise data is crucial for optimizing allocation of sampling effort and resources. In this study, we compared mammalian species richness and detection probabilities between three field methodologies: line transects, ground camera traps and arboreal camera traps in Nyungwe National Park, Rwanda. Arboreal camera traps may be suitable for monitoring mammal communities with arboreal species, but their relative effectiveness compared to the more common field methods, line transects and ground camera traps, is relatively unknown. Using single‐season occupancy models with multi‐species data and single‐species multi‐method occupancy models, we estimated mammalian species richness and detection probability for each method and combination of methods. In addition, we estimated single‐species occupancy and detection probability by method for six diurnal primate species. And, we tested for the effect of height on a tree on estimated occupancy probability and detection probability for arboreal camera traps. Overall, for all species the combination of ground and arboreal cameras was the most effective methodology in terms of highest estimates of occupancy and detection coupled with highest precision. However, for the six primate species the most effective method differed between species. The height of the arboreal camera trap in the tree did not significantly affect estimates of occupancy or detection. We suggest using all three field methods concurrently to maximize detection of all species; however, if only two methods can be deployed combining arboreal and ground cameras provided the highest and most precise estimates of occupancy and detection. The addition of arboreal camera traps could improve detection of species and improve future species monitoring programs.
Adaptive amelogenesis during unimpeded eruption of rat mandibular incisor
Authors: Risnes Steinar , Goldberg Michel
Published: March 2020

The aim of the study was to see whether the length of the enamel secretion zone in unimpeded rat incisors, measured precisely, is in agreement with the observed decrease in enamel thickness. Unimpeded eruption of mandibular incisors of five experimental and two control rats was induced by cutting off the erupted part of the incisors three times per week for 5 weeks. The length of the zone of enamel secretion in unimpeded and impeded control incisors was measured on longitudinal and serial transverse histological sections of fixed, demineralised and embedded hemimandibles. Impeded contralateral incisors were also included in the study. The length of the zone of enamel secretion in unimpeded incisors showed an increase to 8,398 ± 558 µm, that is 161% of the length in control incisors (5,213 ± 95 µm). The contralateral incisor showed a reduction in eruption rate, in length of the secretion zone, and the whole tooth was shifted somewhat apically. The measured length of the secretion zone is in agreement with the observed thickness of enamel (98 µm) in unimpeded incisors. The reduced eruption rate and the apical shift of the contralateral incisor are probably due to an increased occlusal load.
Effects of supplementation with β‐carotene on the growth performance and intestinal mucosal barriers in layer‐type cockerels
Authors: Hui Junnan , Li Lingxi , Li Ruonan , Wu Min , Yang Yu , Wang Jinghui , Fan Yuanyuan , Zheng Xin
Published: March 2020

β‐carotene is a robust modulator of mucosal barriers, and it can amplify the immunoglobulin A (IgA) response via the retinoic acid (RA)–mediated pathway. We investigated the influence of β‐carotene on intestinal barriers in layer‐type cockerels. In this study, β‐carotene has a positive influence on growth performance and intestinal morphology. β‐carotene remarkably enhanced serum secretory immunoglobulin A (sIgA) levels, jejunal mucosal sIgA, and IgA concentrations. β‐Carotene significantly enhanced mRNA expression levels of IgA, CC chemokine receptor‐9 (CCR9), polymeric immunoglobulin receptor (pIgR), and retinoic acid receptor α (RARα) in the ileal tissues and pIgR in the jejunal tissues. β‐Carotene improves mRNA expression of intestinal barrier‐related proteins including: mucin‐2 (MUC‐2), zonula occludens‐2 (ZO‐2), occludins (OCLN), and zonula occludens‐1 (ZO‐1) in the ileal tissues. Moreover, β‐carotene decreased the levels of Escherichia coli and elevates the levels of Lactobacillus. The results indicate that β‐carotene can promote growth performance and contribute to the gradual development of intestinal barriers in Hyline Brown chicks. This study enriches our knowledge about the effects of β‐carotene on intestinal barrier and highlights a theoretical basis of β‐carotene application in the poultry industry.
Early experience using salvage radiotherapy for relapsed/refractory non‐Hodgkin lymphomas after CD19 chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cell therapy
Authors: Imber Brandon S. , Sadelain Michel , DeSelm Carl , Batlevi Connie , Brentjens Renier J. , Dahi Parastoo B. , Giralt Sergio , Park Jae H. , Sauter Craig , Scordo Michael , Shah Gunjan , Perales Miguel‐Angel , Palomba M. Lia , Yahalom Joachim
Published: March 2020

Radiotherapy is potentially an important salvage strategy post‐chimeric antigen receptor T cell therapy (CART), but limited data exist. We reviewed 14 patients treated with salvage radiation post‐CART progression (SRT). Most received SRT for first post‐CART relapse (71%) to sites previously PET‐avid pre‐CART (79%). Median overall survival (OS) post‐SRT was 10 months. Post‐SRT, six localized relapses achieved 100% response (3 = complete, 3 = partial), with improved freedom from subsequent relapse (P = 0·001) and OS (P = 0·004) compared to advanced stage relapses. Three were bridged to allogeneic transplantation; at analysis, all were alive/NED. SRT has diverse utility and can integrate with novel agents or transplantation to attempt durable remissions.
Disease pharmacokinetic–pharmacodynamic modelling in acute intermittent porphyria to support the development of mRNA‐based therapies
Authors: Parra‐Guillen Zinnia P. , Fontanellas Antonio , Jiang Lei , Jericó Daniel , Martini Paolo , Vera‐Yunca Diego , Hard Marjie , Guey Lin T. , Troconiz Iñaki F.
Published: March 2020

Background and Purpose

Acute intermittent porphyria (AIP) results from haplo‐insufficiency of the porphobilinogen deaminase (PBGD) gene encoding the third enzyme in the haem biosynthesis pathway. As liver is the main organ of pathology for AIP, emerging therapies that restore enzyme hepatic levels are appealing. The objective of this work was to develop a mechanistic‐based computational framework to describe the effects of novel PBGD mRNA therapy on the accumulation of neurotoxic haem precursors in small and large animal models.

Experimental Approach

Liver PBGD activity data and/or 24‐hr urinary haem precursors were obtained from genetic AIP mice and wild‐type mice, rats, rabbits, and macaques. To mimic acute attacks, porphyrogenic drugs were administered over one or multiple challenges, and animals were used as controls or treated with different PBGD mRNA products. Available experimental data were sequentially used to build and validate a semi‐mechanistic mathematical model using non‐linear mixed‐effects approach.

Key Results

The developed framework accounts for the different biological processes involved (i.e., mRNA sequence, release from lipid nanoparticle and degradation, mRNA translation, increased PBGD activity in liver, and haem precursor metabolism) in a simplified mechanistic fashion. The model, validated using external data, shows robustness in the extrapolation of PBGD activity data in rat, rabbit, and non‐human primate species.

Conclusion and Implications

This quantitative framework provides a valuable tool to compare PBGD mRNA drug products during early preclinical stages, optimize the amount of experimental data required, and project results to humans, thus supporting drug development and clinical dose and dosing regimen selection.
Contrasting population genetic structure of two sympatric species of Anthurium (Araceae) along elevation in an Andean mountain forest
Authors: Cuartas‐Hernández Sandra E. , Moreno‐Betancur Deisy J.
Published: March 2020

The topography of the tropical Andean forest is steep, resulting in physical conditions that change with the elevation, thus driving a high turnover of insect pollinator species over short distances, which may lead to localized gene dispersal, promoting genetic divergence between plant populations distributed along the elevation gradient. In this study, we characterized the population genetic structure of Anthurium caucanum and A. panduriforme, two closely related species that coexist along the elevation gradient in the Andean forest but differ in inflorescence size and abundance of flower visitors. The sampling of both species covered seven elevation bands, from 2,200 to 2,900 MASL. Five microsatellite loci were used to genotype the sampled individuals. Our results indicated that heterozygosity was high for both species. Genotypic richness was significantly lower for A. caucanum (G/N = 0.45) compared with A. panduriforme (G/N = 0.88), while population differentiation was strong for A. caucanum (Fst = 0.23) but low for A. panduriforme (Fst = 0.03). Assignment analysis suggested a low rate of immigration events for A. caucanum populations and a high gene flow between A. panduriforme populations. Based on the seed production of bagged inflorescences, A. caucanum demonstrated the ability to self‐pollinate, while A. panduriforme was considered self‐incompatible. In addition, genotypic richness decreased with elevation for A. caucanum. In summary, the contrasting population genetic structure of the two Anthurium species along the elevation gradient appear to be the result of different gene flow rates, mating systems, and life‐history traits, such as clonal growth, flowering phenology, and density.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
A Survey on Visualizations for Musical Data
Authors: Khulusi R. , Kusnick J. , Meinecke C. , Gillmann C. , Focht J. , Jänicke S.
Published: March 2020

Digital methods are increasingly applied to store, structure and analyse vast amounts of musical data. In this context, visualization plays a crucial role, as it assists musicologists and non‐expert users in data analysis and in gaining new knowledge. This survey focuses on this unique link between musicology and visualization. We classify 129 related works according to the visualized data types, and we analyse which visualization techniques were applied for certain research inquiries and to fulfill specific tasks. Next to scientific references, we take commercial music software and public websites into account, that contribute novel concepts of visualizing musicological data. We encounter different aspects of uncertainty as major problems when dealing with musicological data and show how occurring inconsistencies are processed and visually communicated. Drawing from our overview in the field, we identify open challenges for research on the interface of musicology and visualization to be tackled in the future.
Histopathological features of photodamage and mast cell infiltrate in actinic cheilitis with different grades of epithelial dysplasia
Authors: Santana Thalita , Nagata Gabriela , Saturno Juvani Lago , Trierveiler Marília
Published: March 2020

Background

Actinic cheilitis is induced by chronic exposure to ultraviolet radiation and shows solar elastosis, a feature that has been associated with mast cell infiltrates. This study aimed to investigate the area of solar elastosis, collagen loss, and mast cell infiltrates in a series of actinic cheilitis.

Methods

We evaluated the epithelial dysplasia in 52 cases of actinic cheilitis and the solar elastosis with Weigert's resorcin‐fuchsin. Collagen loss was evaluated with Picrosirius red, analyzed under polarized microscopy, and scored from 1 to 3. Elastosis proportionate area (EPA) was calculated with image software. Mast cells were highlighted with toluidine blue stain.

Results

EPA varied from 2% to 45%, with a mean of 17.1% in the cases, with no differences among epithelial dysplasia degrees. Most cases presented collagen loss scores of 2 or 3, and higher loss of type I collagen was associated with older age. Mast cell density was higher in severe epithelial dysplasia (P = 0.002) and in high‐risk cases (P = 0.01).

Conclusion

Actinic cheilitis presented variable EPA and marked loss of type I collagen; however, these features were not associated with the degrees of epithelial dysplasia. Besides, mast cell density increased with epithelial dysplasia worsening and this was not associated with elastosis area or collagen loss.
Disseminated tuberculosis presenting as medium‐vessel vasculitis in an immunocompromised host
Authors: Wang Jennifer Y. , Brown Ryanne A. , Pugliese Silvina , Kwong Bernice Y. , Novoa Roberto A.
Published: March 2020

Cutaneous tuberculosis is an uncommon entity with several clinical forms recognized. Histopathologically, most cases are characterized by granulomatous inflammation and caseating necrosis, although less common findings, including vasculitis, have also been described. We report a 55‐year‐old male with a history of recently diagnosed dermatomyositis receiving immunosuppression with mycophenolate mofetil and prednisone, who developed multifocal soft tissue abscesses and an indurated erythematous plaque on the back. Skin biopsy of the back revealed a necrotizing medium‐vessel vasculitis. Mycobacterium tuberculosis was detected in the skin via acid‐fast bacilli stain and confirmed by tissue culture and polymerase chain reaction. Cutaneous findings improved rapidly with antituberculosis therapy. This case illustrates an uncommon clinical and histopathologic presentation of disseminated tuberculosis.
Identification of signal peptide features for substrate specificity in human Sec62/Sec63‐dependent ER protein import
Authors: Schorr Stefan , Nguyen Duy , Haßdenteufel Sarah , Nagaraj Nagarjuna , Cavalié Adolfo , Greiner Markus , Weissgerber Petra , Loi Marisa , Paton Adrienne W. , Paton James C. , Molinari Maurizio , Förster Friedrich , Dudek Johanna , Lang Sven , Helms Volkhard , Zimmermann Richard
Published: March 2020

In mammalian cells, one‐third of all polypeptides are integrated into the membrane or translocated into the lumen of the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) via the Sec61 channel. While the Sec61 complex facilitates ER import of most precursor polypeptides, the Sec61‐associated Sec62/Sec63 complex supports ER import in a substrate‐specific manner. So far, mainly posttranslationally imported precursors and the two cotranslationally imported precursors of ERj3 and prion protein were found to depend on the Sec62/Sec63 complex in vitro. Therefore, we determined the rules for engagement of Sec62/Sec63 in ER import in intact human cells using a recently established unbiased proteomics approach. In addition to confirming ERj3, we identified 22 novel Sec62/Sec63 substrates under these in vivo‐like conditions. As a common feature, those previously unknown substrates share signal peptides (SP) with comparatively longer but less hydrophobic hydrophobic region of SP and lower carboxy‐terminal region of SP (C‐region) polarity. Further analyses with four substrates, and ERj3 in particular, revealed the combination of a slowly gating SP and a downstream translocation‐disruptive positively charged cluster of amino acid residues as decisive for the Sec62/Sec63 requirement. In the case of ERj3, these features were found to be responsible for an additional immunoglobulin heavy‐chain binding protein (BiP) requirement and to correlate with sensitivity toward the Sec61‐channel inhibitor CAM741. Thus, the human Sec62/Sec63 complex may support Sec61‐channel opening for precursor polypeptides with slowly gating SPs by direct interaction with the cytosolic amino‐terminal peptide of Sec61α or via recruitment of BiP and its interaction with the ER‐lumenal loop 7 of Sec61α. These novel insights into the mechanism of human ER protein import contribute to our understanding of the etiology of SEC63‐linked polycystic liver disease.

Databases

The mass spectrometry proteomics data have been deposited to the ProteomeXchange Consortium via the PRIDE partner repository (http://www.ebi.ac.uk/pride/archive/projects/Identifiers) with the dataset identifiers: PXD008178, PXD011993, and PXD012078. Supplementary information was deposited at Mendeley Data (https://data.mendeley.com/datasets/6s5hn73jcv/2).
Experimenting with institutions in a 21st century age of “post‐truth”
Authors: Walker Dominic
Published: March 2020

This paper contributes to experimental geographies in the context of scientific, research‐based institutions. This focus is under‐explored but increasingly under siege in a “post‐truth”, “alternative facts” and “fake news” era in the US and UK. I respond to the current cultural, political and social challenges presented to institutions against this backdrop, arguing for a solution to these challenges: experimenting with institutions. The paper first outlines how experiments have recently become used in experimental geographies. The paper then applies these understandings of experiments to the context of institutions, arguing for engaging with new, key situations rather than necessarily with key “experts”. The paper lastly explores one example of such experiments, termed “artist‐led institutions”, and their merits for addressing the challenges outlined. I argue these artist‐led institutions demonstrate potential solutions to current institutional difficulties through expanding engagements to include more practitioners and groups rather than just “experts”, as part of a turn towards recognising more forms of expertise, and their value for wider conversations. By engaging with wider groups assembled around key situations rather than “experts”, artist‐led institutions open up the value of conversations as part of the process of knowledge‐making, rather than solely focusing on the production of outputs in pursuit of certified expertise characteristic of scientific, research‐based institutions. In doing so, the paper contributes to a discussion involving experimental geographies and institutions which may yet become increasingly audible in an age of uncertainty, as 21st Century challenges unfold.
Artificial liver treatment improves survival in patients with hepatitis B virus‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure: A case‐control matched analysis
Authors: Yang Lingling , Wu Tianzhou , Li Jiang , Xin Jiaojiao , Shi Dongyan , Jiang Jing , Liang Xi , Lu Yingyan , Yao Heng , Zhang Huafen , Sun Suwan , Li Tan , Mohamed Hassan Mohamed Hozeifa , Li Jiaqi , Ren Keke , Guo Beibei , Zhou Xingping , Chen Jiaxian , Hao Shaorui , Chen Jiajia , Xin Shaojie , Pan Chen , Han Tao , Chen Yongping , Lin Shumei , Duan Zhongping , Xu Xiaowei , Huang Jianrong , Chen Xin , Li Lanjuan , Li Jun ,   Chinese Group on the Study of Severe Hepatitis B (COSSH)
Published: March 2020

Aim

The artificial liver support system (ALSS) is recognized as a bridge to liver transplantation in hepatitis B virus‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (HBV‐ACLF) patients. However, patient survival remains unknown. We aim to assess the effects of ALSS on survival in HBV‐ACLF patients.

Methods

The clinical data of HBV‐ACLF patients receiving standard medical treatment (SMT) plus ALSS (ALSS group, n = 507) or only SMT (SMT group, n = 417) were collected for survival assessment. The main end‐points were cumulative survival rates at days 21, 28, and 90. Four different rigorous analyses were carried out to reduce bias and confounding.

Results

In the entire cohort, the cumulative survival rates at days 21, 28, and 90 were significantly higher in patients who underwent ALSS treatment (73.3% vs. 59.6%, 69.2% vs. 56.6%, 56.5% vs. 49.1%, respectively, P < 0.01) than in those who underwent SMT only. In the 276‐pair case–control matched cohort, a significantly higher survival rate was also observed in the ALSS group than in the SMT group on days 21, 28, and 90 (72.5% vs. 60.3%, 68.3% vs. 57.4%, 55.9% vs. 48.5%, respectively, P < 0.05), especially in patients with ACLF‐1 and ‐2. By a multivariable‐adjusted analysis, ALSS treatment was associated with a significantly lower risk of mortality, especially for ACLF‐2 at days 21, 28, and 90. These findings were also confirmed through propensity score matching and inverse probability treatment weighting analysis.

Conclusions

ALSS treatment can improve short‐term survival and is associated with a significantly lower risk of short‐term mortality in patients with HBV‐ACLF, especially ACLF‐2.
Effects of impregnate temperature on extraction of caffeoylquinic acid derivatives from Moringa oleifera leaves and evaluation of inhibitory activity on digestive enzyme, antioxidant, anti‐proliferative and antibacterial activities of the extract
Authors: Hamed Yahya Saud , Abdin Mohamed , Chen Guijie , Akhtar Hafiz Muhammad Saleem , Zeng Xiaoxiong
Published: March 2020

In an ultrasonic bath and for 30 min in the presence of water as extraction solvent in a ratio of 1:10 (g/mL), effect of extraction temperature on extraction of caffeoylquinic acids (CQAs) from Moringa oleifera leaves (MOL) was investigated. Gradually increasing in extraction temperature caused a growing in mono‐CQA and declining in 3,5‐diCQA. The extract obtained at 80 °C showed the highest antioxidant capacity, and IC50 values for scavenging activities on DPPH radicals and ABTS radicals were 56.9 and 53.6 µg/mL, respectively. Compared with α‐glucosidase and α‐amylase, the extract showed the highest inhibition on pancreatic lipase (IC50 of 0.073 mg/mL). Increasing the extraction temperature improved cytotoxicity of the extract on cancer cell lines of HeLa and HepG2. Compared with gram‐negative Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium, all the extracts showed higher inhibition on the growth of gram‐positive Bacillus cereus and Staphylococcus aureus. Our results suggested that use of higher extraction temperature (80 °C) improved the biological activity of MOL extract.
¿Conduce la flexibilización a menor desempleo? Un análisis empírico del mercado laboral español
Authors: HERRERO Daniel , CÁRDENAS Luis , LÓPEZ GALLEGO Julián
Published: March 2020

En España se llevaron a cabo dos grandes reformas laborales (2010 y 2012) bajo el supuesto de que la flexibilización del mercado laboral y la descentralización de la negociación colectiva conducirían mecánicamente a reducir el desempleo (hipótesis flexibilizadora). Este artículo destaca la centralidad de la demanda y de la composición sectorial de la economía para explicar el comportamiento de esta variable (hipótesis estructural). Mediante un análisis con datos de panel a escala subnacional, evaluamos la capacidad de ambas hipótesis para explicar la evolución del desempleo. Nuestros resultados cuestionan los supuestos de la hipótesis flexibilizadora y subrayan la importancia de los factores cíclicos y estructurales.
Factors associated with requests for premature discharge and the decision to support a service user through the discharge against medical advice process
Authors: Kavanagh Adam , Donnelly Jennifer , Dunne Niall , Maher Tom , Nichol Margaret , Creedon John
Published: March 2020

In the Irish mental healthcare system, voluntarily admitted service users can request to leave hospital at any time. Following engagement with treating clinicians, service users remain as voluntary inpatients, are discharged, discharge themselves against medical advice, or are detained under legislation for the purposes of assessment. While detention conflicts with the principle of autonomy and a human rights‐based approach, premature discharge is often associated with negative outcomes including reduced time to readmission, poorer quality of life, increased costs, and suicide. This study is a retrospective review of clinical records to identify factors associated with requests for premature discharge. Considerations of clinicians making the decision to detain the person or to support them through the discharge against medical advice process were also elucidated. Data were collected from clinical records of service users who requested discharge and were subsequently discharged against medical advice or detained involuntarily. Discharge against medical advice represented 3.5% of all discharges. The most frequent reasons for requests for discharge against medical advice were dissatisfaction with treatment, lack of engagement due to addiction, and leaving without notifying staff. Requests for discharge against medical advice frequently occurred out of hours, and nurses were the clinicians most likely to receive such requests.
The digital patient journey solution for patients undergoing elective hip and knee arthroplasty: Protocol for a pragmatic randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jansson Miia , Vuorinen Anna‐Leena , Harjumaa Marja , Similä Heidi , Koivisto Jonna , Puhto Ari‐Pekka , Vesty Gillian , Pikkarainen Minna
Published: March 2020

Aim

To describe a randomized controlled trial (RCT) protocol that will evaluate the effectiveness of a digital patient journey (DPJ) solution in improving the outcomes of patients undergoing total hip and knee arthroplasty.

Background

There is an urgent need for novel technologies to ensure sustainability, improve patient experience, and empower patients in their own care by providing information, support, and control.

Design

A pragmatic RCT with two parallel arms.

Methods

The participants randomized assigned to the intervention arm (N = 33) will receive access to the DPJ solution. The participants in the control arm (N = 33) will receive conventional care, which is provided face to face by using paper‐based methods. The group allocations will be blinded from the study nurse during the recruitment and baseline measures, as well as from the outcome assessors. Patients with total hip arthroplasty will be followed up for 8–12 weeks, whereas patients with total knee arthroplasty will be followed up for 6–8 weeks. The primary outcome is health‐related quality of life, measured by the EuroQol EQ‐5D‐5L scale. Secondary outcomes include functional recovery, pain, patient experience, and self‐efficacy. The first results are expected to be submitted for publication in 2020.

Impact

This study will provide information on the health effects and cost benefits of using the DPJ solution to support a patient's preparation for surgery and postdischarge surgical care. If the DPJ solution is found to be effective, its implementation into clinical practice could lead to further improvements in patient outcomes. If the DPJ solution is found to be cost effective for the hospital, it could be used to improve hospital resource efficiency.
Specific investment, supplier vulnerability and profit risks
Authors: Chen Zhiqi , Wang Xiaoqiao
Published: March 2020

We investigate, theoretically and empirically, the impact of relationship‐specific investment on suppliers’ profitability and profit risks. In addition to the familiar holdup problem, we explore another facet of specific investment that has received little attention in the literature, namely suppliers’ vulnerability to customer risks. In a theoretical model, we demonstrate that the supplier vulnerability problem implies a negative relationship between the degree of specificity and the expected profit of a supplier, and a positive relationship between the degree of specificity and volatility of the supplier's profit. Using panel data on over 5,000 US firms from 1990 to 2010, our empirical analysis shows the prevalence of the supplier vulnerability problem.
Poverty effects of public health reforms in Turkey: A focus on out‐of‐pocket payments
Authors: Cinaroglu Songul
Published: March 2020

Rationale, aims, and objectives

Expanded financial coverage is critical to fight against poverty through public health reforms in developing countries. This study explores inequity in public health financing reforms in Turkey between 2003 and 2015.

Methods

This paper has two parts. The first part examines inequity in health care financing in Turkey between 2003 and 2015. Gini, entropy (Theil and mean logarithmic deviation), and Atkinson indexes were calculated. In the second part of the paper, we investigated the degree of progressivity by using Kakwani index and Lorenz and concentration curves.

Results

We found a decreasing trend in terms of inequity. After major public health reforms and unification of the health financing system, it is seen that the distribution of out‐of‐pocket expenditure on health stands on the shoulders of vulnerable groups.

Conclusions

Study results provide a deep understanding of the effects of poverty on public health financing reforms on households in Turkey. To reduce out‐of‐pocket health spending inequities and to protect vulnerable groups from increasing the level of health expenditures, we suggest that the government enlarges health insurance coverage for the poor.
Synergistic effects of anisotropy and image force on TEM diffraction contrast of dislocation loops
Authors: WU W. , SCHÄUBLIN R.
Published: March 2020

Based on column approximation (CA) assumption, many‐beam Schaeublin–Stadelmann diffraction equations are employed for simulating the transmission electron microscopy (TEM) diffraction image contrast of dislocation loops within thin TEM foil of finite thickness, and two beam and many beam diffraction conditions are compared. Moreover, the effects of materials anisotropy and free surface relaxation induced elastic fields distortion of dislocation loops on the black‐white image contrast are specially focused. It is found that anisotropy has a remarkable impact on the TEM image contrast of dislocation loop, and free surface relaxation induced image forces can change the black‐white contrast features when dislocation loops are near TEM foil free surfaces. Thus, in order to make reliable judgment on the nature of defects, effects of free surface and anisotropy should be included when analysing irradiation induced dislocation loops and other type of defects in in‐situ electron, proton, heavy‐ion irradiation experiments under TEM environments.
Enzymatic cross‐linking to improve the handling properties of dough prepared within a normal and reduced NaCl environment
Authors: Konieczny Dellaney , Stone Andrea K. , Hucl Pierre , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: March 2020

This research examines the use of three enzymes [glucose oxidase (GOX), hexose oxidase (HOX), and xylanase (XYL)] and their combinations [GOX–XYL and HOX–XYL] on the dough handling properties of CDC Plentiful and Stettler wheat cultivars prepared at reduced (1.0% wt. by flour) and normal (2.0% wt. by flour) NaCl levels. Properties investigated include dough rheology, stickiness, and ratio of resistance to extension and extensibility. The inclusion of XYL and its combinations with GOX and HOX increased the stickiness, yielded lower dough strength indicated by rheology, and reduced the ratio of resistance to extension and extensibility. The inclusion of oxidative enzymes yielded a stronger dough, where HOX addition to dough had the lowest stickiness values and highest |G*| values, whereas GOX addition led to the highest ratio of resistance to extension—extensibility. NaCl only had minor effects overall on dough strength and stickiness for the cultivars studied. Overall, superior dough handling properties were observed with oxidative enzyme addition (GOX and HOX) suggesting that the increased crosslinking that occurs could aid in improving low sodium bread dough properties.
Effect of supportive therapy on the pharmacokinetics of intravenous marbofloxacin in endotoxemic sheep
Authors: Coskun Devran , Corum Orhan , Yazar Enver
Published: March 2020

The purpose of this study was to determine the influences of supportive therapy (ST) on the pharmacokinetics (PK) of marbofloxacin in lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐induced endotoxemic sheep. Furthermore, minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) of marbofloxacin against Escherichia coli, Mannheimia haemolytica, Pasteurella multocida, Klebsiella pneumoniae, Salmonella spp., and Staphylococcus aureus was determined. The study was performed using a three‐period cross PK design following a 15‐day washout period. In the first period, marbofloxacin (10 mg/kg) was administered by an intravenous (IV) injection. In the second and third periods, marbofloxacin was co‐administered with ST (lactated ringer + 5% dextrose + 0.45% sodium chloride, IV, 20 ml/kg, dexamethasone 0.5 mg/kg, SC) and ST + LPS (E. coli O55:B5, 10 µg/kg), respectively. Plasma marbofloxacin concentration was measured using HPLC‐UV. Following IV administration of marbofloxacin alone, the , AUC0–∞, ClT, and Vdss were 2.87 hr, 34.73 hr × µg/ml, 0.29 L hr−1 kg−1, and 0.87 L/kg, respectively. While no change was found in the MBX + ST group in terms of the PK parameters of marbofloxacin, it was determined that the ClT of marbofloxacin decreased, AUC0–∞ increased, and and MRT prolonged in the MBX + ST + LPS group. MIC values of marbofloxacin were 0.031 to >16 µg/ml for E. coli, 0.016 to >16 µg/ml for M. haemolytica, 0.016–1 µg/ml for P. multocida, 0.016–0.25 µg/ml for K. pneumoniae, 0.031–0.063 µg/ml for Salmonella spp., and 0.031–1 µg/ml for S. aureus. The study results show the necessity to make a dose adjustment of marbofloxacin following concomitant administration of ST in endotoxemic sheep. Also, the PK and pharmacodynamic effect of marbofloxacin needs to be determined in naturally infected septicemic sheep following concomitant administration of single and ST.
Experimental partitioning of trace elements into schreibersite with applications to IIG iron meteorites
Authors: Chabot Nancy L. , Cueva Rachel H. , Beck Andrew W. , Ash Richard D.
Published: March 2020

Some of the defining characteristics of the IIG iron meteorite group are their high bulk P contents and massive, coarse schreibersite, which have been calculated to make up roughly 11–14 wt% of each specimen. In this study, we produced two data sets to investigate the formation of schreibersites in IIG irons: measurements of trace elements in the IIG iron meteorite Twannberg and experimental determinations of trace element partitioning into schreibersite. The schreibersite‐bearing experiments were conducted with schreibersite in equilibrium with a P‐rich melt and with bulk Ni contents ranging from 0 to 40 wt%. The partitioning behavior for the 20 elements measured in this study did not vary with Ni content. Comparison of the Twannberg measurements with the experimental results required a correction factor to account for the fact that the experiments were conducted in a simplified system that did not contain a solid metal phase. Previously determined solid metal/P‐rich melt partition coefficients were applied to infer schreibersite/solid metal partitioning behavior from the experiments, and once this correction was applied, the two data sets showed broad similarities between the schreibersite/solid metal distribution of elements. However, there were also differences noted, in particular between the Ni and P contents of the solid metal relative to the schreibersite inferred from the experiments compared to that measured in the Twannberg sample. These differences support previous interpretations that subsolidus schreibersite evolution has strongly influenced the Ni and P content now present in the solid metal phase of IIG irons. Quantitative attempts to match the IIG solid metal composition to that of late‐stage IIAB irons through subsolidus schreibersite growth were not successful, but qualitatively, this study corroborates the striking similarities between the IIAB and IIG groups, which are highly suggestive of a possible genetic link between the groups as has been previously proposed.
Elderberry (Sambucus spp.) interspecific hybridization and its impact on fruit oxalates
Authors: Imenšek Nataša , Kristl Janja , Sem Vilma , Ivančič Anton
Published: March 2020

Elderberry fruits are a good source of minerals and antioxidants; however, the presence of anti‐nutrients like oxalates may limit their utilization. The presented study which involves chemical evaluation of numerous interspecific hybrids is based on a hypothesis that interspecific genetic recombination may significantly improve the production and the nutritional quality of elderberry fruits. The aim of the first part of this study was to determine the oxalates (total, water‐soluble and insoluble) in fruits of 73 elderberry genotypes. In the second part, the dynamics of oxalate contents during fruit maturation was analysed. The average content of total oxalates in analysed genotypes was 721 ± 33 mg/100 g DW. The majority (91%, on average) were health harmless insoluble oxalates. The average content of total oxalates was increasing at the beginning of maturation and then it began to decrease significantly and reached its minimum value at full maturity, while the average of water‐soluble oxalates was gradually decreasing throughout maturation. Due to relatively high oxalate contents, some of the analysed hybrids should not be used for further breeding process.
Aquaculture of green sea urchin in the Barents Sea: a brief review of Russian studies
Authors: Dvoretsky Alexander G. , Dvoretsky Vladimir G.
Published: March 2020

Gonads of the green sea urchin (Strongylocentrotus droebachiensis) containing valuable carotenoids, polyunsaturated fatty acids, phospholipids and sulphated fucans are in great demand from the expanding market. In Russian waters of the Barents Sea, only a few sites are suitable for commercial harvesting and thus the development of green sea urchin farming in this region. Our review presents a short survey of Russian literature on biological aspects and rearing methods of green sea urchins in the Barents Sea. In the 1980s, spawning induction and larval culture experiments were undertaken to obtain larvae of S. droebachiensis. Later studies were undertaken to test optimal rations and conditions for gonad enhancement of adult sea urchins in sea cages and closed systems. Gonadal growth was higher and faster in sea urchins reared under controlled conditions in closed water circulation tanks compared with sea cages. Regular feeding of cultured animals provided them better gonadal growth than in wild sea urchins irrespective of food items. Algal diets showed a lower level of gonad yield compared with mixed diets (algae + squid, algae + fish), fish diets and prepared diets (artificial feed based on fish skin). The coast of the Kola Peninsula has a good potential for the development of the green sea urchin farming but several financial, socio‐economic, logistic and management problems must be solved before this process starts.
The Architecture of Rural Life: The Dangers of Dense Collective Efficacy for At‐Risk Girls
Authors: Terry April N.
Published: March 2020

Dense ties and acquaintanceship result in small communities that deal with issues on an individual, informal basis. When issues such as sexual assault arise, if a victim is willing to seek services, studies have found that rurality negatively impedes on this process. The current study takes place in a primarily rural state, representing social control mechanisms somewhat different from cityscapes. The project relies heavily on in‐depth interviews from incarcerated girls and women, as well as contributions from community actors, to assess collective efficacy in rural communities, influence of gender dynamics, and the impact on at‐risk girls. Tracing participants' community roots, the study gathers structural and cultural characteristics of the locale, assessing social control practices as reported by local professionals. Results challenge literature proclaiming solely positive results from high levels of collective efficacy, finding that strong collective efficacy in nonurban areas gathers close insider ties, but “outsiders,” which includes girls identified in this research, are defined quickly and negatively, placing them in significant peril. Policy recommendations include broader cultural shifts coupled with local involvement with school personnel and church‐involved patrons serving the needs of families and at‐risk girls.
Stepping in circles: how locomotor signals of rotation adapt over time
Authors: St George Rebecca J. , Day Brian L. , Butler Annie A. , Fitzpatrick Richard C.
Published: March 2020

Key points

While it has been well described that prolonged rotational stepping will adapt the podokinetic sense of rotation, the mechanisms involved are not clearly understood.

By studying podokinetic after‐rotations following conditioning rotations not previously reported we have shown that slower rotational velocities are more readily adapted than faster velocities and adaptation occurs more quickly than previously thought.

We propose a dynamic feedback model of vestibular and podokinetic adaptation that can fit rotation trajectories across multiple conditions and data sets.

Two adaptation processes were identified that may reflect central and peripheral processes and the discussion unifies prior findings in the podokinetic literature under this new framework.

The findings show the technique is feasible for people with locomotor turning problems.

After a prolonged period stepping in circles, people walk with a curved trajectory when attempting to walk in a straight line without vision. Podokinetic adaptation shows promise in clinical populations to improve locomotor turning; however, the adaptive mechanisms involved are poorly understood. The first phase of this study asks: how does the podokinetic conditioning velocity affect the response velocity and how quickly can adaptation occur? The second phase of the study asks: can a mathematical feedback model account for the rotation trajectories across different conditioning parameters and different datasets? Twelve healthy participants stepped in place on the axis of a rotating surface ranging from 4 to 20 deg s−1 for durations of 1–10 min, while using visual cues to maintain a constant heading direction. Afterward on solid ground, participants were blindfolded and attempted to step without rotating. Participants unknowingly stepped in circles opposite to the direction of the prior platform rotation for all conditions. The angular velocity of this response peaked within 1 min and the ratio of the stimulus‐to‐response peak velocity fitted a decreasing power function. The response then decayed exponentially. The feedback model of podokinetic and vestibular adaptive processes had a good fit with the data and suggested that podokinetic adaptation is explained by a short (141 s) and a long (27 min) time constant. The podokinetic system adapts more quickly than previously thought and subjects adapt more readily to slower rotation than to faster rotation. These findings will have implications for clinical applications of the technique.
In operando x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy study of mechanism of atomic layer etching of cobalt
Authors: Wang Zijian , Opila Robert L.
Published: March 2020

The reaction mechanism of atomic layer etching (ALE) process of Co thin films using Cl2 gas and diketone organic precursor hexafluoroacetylacetone (Hfac) has been investigated. In operando XPS featuring a reaction chamber directly connected to the XPS surface analysis chamber allows the study of the mechanism of ALE process of Co thin films with minimum surface contamination. Chlorine activated Co surfaces were investigated using in operando XPS that confirms the formation of CoCl2 and CoCl3. Hfac reacts with chlorinated Co surfaces to perform thermal etching surface chemical reactions at 140 °C. The chlorine removal rate upon exposure to Hfac follows a first order kinetics at 140 °C. The reaction mechanism elucidated by in operando XPS reveals that Hfac decomposes on chlorine activated Co surfaces suggesting a more complex reaction mechanistic pathway other than a simple adsorbate substitution reaction between chlorine and Hfac on Co surfaces. Moreover, the Co surface becomes smoother during the etching process.