bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A new species of Erythroxylum (Erythoxylaceae) from the seasonal dry forests of the state of Goiás, Brazil
Authors: SILVA MARCOS JOSÉ DA , LOIOLA MARIA IRACEMA BEZERRA
Published: January 2021

Erythroxylum niquelandense is here described, illustrated and compared morphologically with similar congeners. Additionally, its taxonomic position, flowering and fruiting periods, geographical distribution, and conservation assessment are presented, as well as representative images and a distribution map.
Climate Field Completion via Markov Random Fields: Application to the HadCRUT4.6 Temperature Dataset
Authors: Vaccaro Adam , Emile-Geay Julien , Guillot Dominque , Verna Resherle , Morice Colin , Kennedy John , Rajaratnam Bala
Published: January 2021

Surface temperature is a vital metric of Earth’s climate state but is incompletely observed in both space and time: over half of monthly values are missing from the widely used HadCRUT4.6 global surface temperature dataset. Here we apply the graphical expectation–maximization algorithm (GraphEM), a recently developed imputation method, to construct a spatially complete estimate of HadCRUT4.6 temperatures. GraphEM leverages Gaussian Markov random fields (also known as Gaussian graphical models) to better estimate covariance relationships within a climate field, detecting anisotropic features such as land–ocean contrasts, orography, ocean currents, and wave-propagation pathways. This detection leads to improved estimates of missing values compared to methods (such as kriging) that assume isotropic covariance relationships, as we show with real and synthetic data. This interpolated analysis of HadCRUT4.6 data is available as a 100-member ensemble, propagating information about sampling variability available from the original HadCRUT4.6 dataset. A comparison of Niño-3.4 and global mean monthly temperature series with published datasets reveals similarities and differences due in part to the spatial interpolation method. Notably, the GraphEM-completed HadCRUT4.6 global temperature displays a stronger early twenty-first-century warming trend than its uninterpolated counterpart, consistent with recent analyses using other datasets. Known events like the 1877/78 El Niño are recovered with greater fidelity than with kriging, and result in different assessments of changes in ENSO variability through time. Gaussian Markov random fields provide a more geophysically motivated way to impute missing values in climate fields, and the associated graph provides a powerful tool to analyze the structure of teleconnection patterns. We close with a discussion of wider applications of Markov random fields in climate science.
Statistical Postprocessing of Wind Speed Forecasts Using Convolutional Neural Networks
Authors: Veldkamp Simon , Whan Kirien , Dirksen Sjoerd , Schmeits Maurice
Published: January 2021

Current statistical postprocessing methods for probabilistic weather forecasting are not capable of using full spatial patterns from the numerical weather prediction (NWP) model. In this paper, we incorporate spatial wind speed information by using convolutional neural networks (CNNs) and obtain probabilistic wind speed forecasts in the Netherlands for 48 h ahead, based on KNMI’s deterministic HARMONIE-AROME NWP model. The probabilistic forecasts from the CNNs are shown to have higher Brier skill scores for medium to higher wind speeds, as well as a better continuous ranked probability score (CRPS) and logarithmic score, than the forecasts from fully connected neural networks and quantile regression forests. As a secondary result, we have compared the CNNs using three different density estimation methods [quantized softmax (QS), kernel mixture networks, and fitting a truncated normal distribution], and found the probabilistic forecasts based on the QS method to be best.
SARS-CoV-2 (Covid-19): A short update on molecular biochemistry, pathology, diagnosis and therapeutic strategies
Authors: Ismail Adel AA
Published: January 2021

The ongoing coronavirus (covid-19) pandemic highlights the need for global scientific cooperation to advance our understanding of the immunological, molecular and biochemical mechanisms causing infection by this virus. Better understanding of key processes has allowed the development of vaccines in record time, and of agents with the potential to treat and neutralize current and future coronavirus outbreaks. To date, clinically effective agents for prevention and treatment of covid-19 infections are limited. This review provides a brief synopsis regarding the molecular biology, pathology and laboratory tests commonly used in the diagnosis and prognosis of covid-19, as well as the development of vaccines and therapeutic strategies to manage its current and future mutations.
Pneumatic tube validation: Reducing the need for donor samples by integrating a vial-embedded data logger
Authors: Stangerup Ida , Broell Franziska , Hoop Julie van der , Sennels Henriette P
Published: January 2021

Background

The most common way to validate a pneumatic tube system is to compare pneumatic tube system-transported blood samples to blood samples carried by hand. The importance of measuring the forces inside the pneumatic tube system has also been emphasized. The aim of this study was to define a validation protocol using a mini data logger (VitalVial, Motryx Inc., Canada) to reduce the need for donor samples in pneumatic tube system validation.

Methods

As an indicator of the total vibration, the blood samples are exposed to under pneumatic tube system transportation; the area under the curve was determined by a VitalVial for all hospital Tempus600 lines using a five-day validation protocol. Only the three lines with the highest area under the curves were clinically validated by analysing potassium, lactate dehydrogenase and aspartate aminotransferase. A month after pneumatic tube system commissioning, a follow-up on laboratory data was performed.

Results

Mean area under the curve of the six lines ranged between 347 and 581. The variability of the area under the curve was between 1.51 and 11.55%. In the laboratory data follow-up, an increase in lactate dehydrogenase haemolysis was seen from the three lines with the highest area under the curve and the emergency department, which was not detected in the clinical validation. When the Tempus600 system was in commission, a higher mean area under the curve was measured.

Conclusion

A three-day validation protocol using VitalVials is enough to determine the stability of a Tempus600 system and can greatly reduce the need for donor samples. When in commission, the stability of the pneumatic tube system should be verified and lactate dehydrogenase haemolysis should be routinely checked.
Technology Uncertainty and Incompleteness in Trade Agreements: Reflections from the Design of India’s Bilateral Agreements Covering Services
Authors: Goyal Tanu M.
Published: January 2021

International trade agreements are incomplete contracts. The international environment is non-stationary, and technological progress affects both the nature of services and modes of service delivery. This creates uncertainty about future developments in technology-based services. In the presence of transactions costs and due to limited foresight, it is difficult to specify all contingencies within trade agreements ex ante, resulting in contractual incompleteness. This article investigates the design of India’s services agreements to assess the approach followed while listing the ex ante commitment and its implication on technology-based services. It also discusses the ex post mechanism under these agreements to address the gaps in the commitments with respect to new services, and the enforcement mechanism to facilitate the inclusion of these services. It is found that India’s bilateral agreements leave the inclusion of services that may not be technically feasible, ex ante, at the discretion of the trading partners, ex post. Some of India’s agreements also institute a governance mechanism for facilitating this inclusion. The article argues that there is a need for addressing the issue of technology uncertainty both at an international-trade-policy level and under bilateral agreements. Internationally, efforts are underway for a technology-neutral classification of services. Bilateral agreements must include a robust mechanism within the scope of the Agreement for filling gaps that may arise with technological advancements. For furthering the objective of trade agreements, these mechanisms must be backed by sound governance structure.

JEL Codes: L80, L84, L86, F13, K33, F53, F55
India’s Response to COVID-19 Crisis
Authors: Jha Abhay Kumar , Jha Raghbendra
Published: January 2021

The onset of the COVID-19 pandemic has presented India with complex economic and public health challenges. Furthermore, these two crises interact with each other in unpredictable ways whence there is considerable uncertainty in designing a policy response. This article purports to place India’s experience with the corona virus with a cutoff date of 30 June 2020 in perspective and to examine the public health and economic challenges as well as the economy’s prospects in a post-COVID world. The article lists key dates in the development of this pandemic in India and globally. We then outline the economic and health strategies followed in India to combat the crisis. We further discuss some consequences of the pandemic and elements of India’s recovery strategy. We also assess elements of India’s recovery. Finally, this article discusses prospects for the Indian economy in the short run.

JEL Codes: I15, I18, O11, O40
Do Nudges Reduce Disparities? Choice Architecture Compensates for Low Consumer Knowledge
Authors: Mrkva Kellen , Posner Nathaniel A. , Reeck Crystal , Johnson Eric J.
Published: January 2021

Choice architecture tools, commonly known as nudges, powerfully impact decisions and can improve welfare. Yet it is unclear who is most impacted by nudges. If nudge effects are moderated by socioeconomic status (SES), these differential effects could increase or decrease disparities across consumers. Using field data and several preregistered studies, the authors demonstrate that consumers with lower SES, domain knowledge, and numerical ability are impacted more by a wide variety of nudges. As a result, “good nudges” designed to increase selection of superior options reduced choice disparities, improving choices more among consumers with lower SES, lower financial literacy, and lower numeracy than among those with higher levels of these variables. Compared with “good nudges,” “bad nudges” designed to facilitate selection of inferior options exacerbated choice disparities. These results generalized across real retirement decisions, different nudges, and different decision domains. Across studies, the authors tested different explanations of why SES, domain knowledge, and numeracy moderate nudges. The results suggest that nudges are a useful tool for those who wish to reduce disparities. The research concludes with a discussion of implications for marketing firms and segmentation.
Prevalence and Risk Factors for Food Insecurity Among Low-Income US Military Veterans
Authors: Pooler Jennifer A. , Srinivasan Mithuna , Miller Zachary , Mian Paula
Published: January 2021

Objective

Ensuring access to sufficient foods at all times is critical to veterans’ health and well-being. Food insecurity has not been well explored in the veteran population. We examined the prevalence and predictors of food insecurity among low-income veterans, because the highest rates of food insecurity are among low-income households. We also examined rates of Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) participation among subgroups at the highest risk of food insecurity.

Methods

We used univariate analyses and 2011-2017 National Health Interview Survey (NHIS) data on veterans aged ≥21 with family incomes <200% of the federal poverty level to estimate the prevalence of food insecurity. We used bivariate analyses to identify correlates of food insecurity and estimate SNAP participation rates among subgroups of low-income veterans. Percentages were weighted using NHIS survey weights.

Results

Of 5146 low-income veterans, 22.5% reported being food insecure in the previous month. Food insecurity was significantly associated with being aged <65 (33.0% aged 45-64 and 29.7% aged 21-44) compared with 15.0% and 6.4% among veterans aged 65-74 and ≥75, respectively ( P < .001); unemployed compared with employed or not in the labor force (39.4%, 22.7%, and 20.2%, respectively; P < .001); in fair or poor health compared with good, very good, or excellent heath (31.8% vs 18.2%; P < .001); and having experienced serious psychological distress in the past month (56.3%) compared with not having experienced such distress (19.7%; P < .001). Although overall SNAP participation among low-income veterans was estimated to be 27.0%, participation rates were highest among veterans who had experienced serious psychological distress (44.1%), were unemployed (39.2%), and were renting their home (39.0%).

Conclusions

Some low-income veterans are at greater risk of food insecurity than other veterans. Postseparation programs, civilian support services, and veterans’ health providers should be aware of the characteristics that place veterans at highest risk of food insecurity.
Grasping model of fabric cut pieces for robotic soft fingers
Authors: Su Junqiang , Shen Jinzhu , Zhang Fan
Published: January 2021

In order to progress the research on automatic separation of fabric pieces from a cutting pile during the garment manufacture, a summary of the methods of grasping was made. Next, the process of cut garment pieces grasping by soft fingers was defined, and the mechanical model was analyzed in detail. After that a grasping experiment by soft fingers was carried out. The experiment results show that the parameters of a soft finger (positive pressure, opening distance) and the parameters of the fabric (grams per square meter, thickness, friction coefficient, stiffness) have great influence on the grasping effect. Furthermore, a grasping model was proposed. Finally, a test experiment was implemented to verify the applicability of the model proposed. This paper mainly contributed a bridge between the parameters of fabrics and the parameters of soft fingers which can help greatly to select or to design a suitable soft finger according to the properties of a fabric accurately and quickly. In addition, the grasping model of fabric pieces of garment by using robotic soft fingers was found to have a good potential applicability in the field of smart manufacture of garment in the near future.
Biomateriality and Organizing: Towards an Organizational Perspective on Food
Authors: Moser Christine , Reinecke Juliane , den Hond Frank , Svejenova Silviya , Croidieu Grégoire
Published: January 2021

In this introduction to the special issue, we first provide an illustrative overview of how food has been approached in organization studies. We focus on the organizing of food, that is the organizational efforts that leverage, shape and transform food. Against this backdrop, we distinguish the agency of organizations and the agency of food and explore their intersection. We argue that the ‘biomateriality’ of food, i.e. its biomaterial qualities, plays a distinctive role in shaping and affecting organizing and organizations. To do so, we present a conceptual framework for analysing food organizing, which highlights the biomateriality of food and its agentic effects on organizational efforts. Thus, we provide researchers with an analytical toolkit to disentangle the different agents (people, organizations, food itself) and the associated processes and mechanisms that play a role in food organizing. We use this analytical toolkit to introduce the different articles in the special issue and put forward some lines of future research.
Left or bilateral internal mammary artery employment in coronary artery bypass grafting: midterm results
Authors: Fomenko Mikhail Sergeevich , Schneider Yuri Alexandrovich , Tsoi Victor Gennadievich , Pavlov Alexander Anatolyevich , Shilenko Pavel Alexandrovich
Published: January 2021

Background

The gold standard for coronary artery bypass grafting to the left anterior descending artery is use of the left internal mammary artery. Better long-term survival has been reported using bilateral internal mammary arteries compared to left internal mammary artery only, but many surgeons are reluctant to employ bilateral internal mammary arteries in coronary artery bypass grafting. This study aimed to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of bilateral internal mammary artery use.

Methods

From 2014 to 2017, 1703 patients underwent coronary artery bypass grafting in our institute. Of these, 772 met the inclusion criteria and were randomly assigned to receive bilateral ( n = 387) or left ( n = 385) internal mammary artery grafts. The mean age was 67.1 ± 6.0 years (range 48–85 years) and 474 (61.4%) were male. The mean number of diseased vessels was 3.1 ± 0.9, and mean EuroSCORE II was 3.4% ± 1.1%.

Results

Hospital mortality was 1.2% in the left internal mammary artery group vs. 1.8% in the bilateral internal mammary artery group ( p = 0.55). There was no difference in procedure-related complications between groups. Mean follow-up was 65.9 months. Survival in the bilateral internal mammary artery group at 1, 3, and 5 years was 98.7%, 98.7%, and 94.8% vs. 98.1%, 98.1%, and 90.9%, respectively, in the left internal mammary artery group ( p = 0.63).

Conclusion

Application of bilateral internal mammary arteries in coronary artery bypass grafting is safe and effective, with comparable midterm results to those with the left internal mammary artery only.
A Pilot Study of Perspective Taking and Emotional Contagion in Mental Health Professionals: Glass Brain View of Empathy
Authors: Reddy Rajakumari P. , Mathulla Anna R. , Rajeswaran Jamuna
Published: January 2021

Background:

Empathy plays a fundamental role in the context of psychotherapy. Mental health professionals (MHP) are required to express empathy on a daily basis. “Perspective taking” (cognitive empathy) and “emotional contagion” (affective empathy) are elements of empathy that are both innate and acquired. This study aimed to explore the underlying neural correlates of empathy using functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI).

Method:

A total of six healthy subjects from MHP and other professionals (OP) were recruited in a single-assessment study design. Subjects were screened using the Mini-International Neuropsychiatric Interview and the Standard Progressive Matrices. Behavioral measures such as cognitive and affective empathy, interpersonal reactivity, and emotional and social quotient were assessed. Perspective taking was examined with the fMRI face recognition task and the reading mind through eyes task. Emotional contagion was examined by the negative, positive, and pain emotions task. The fMRI was conducted in a 3T Siemens Magnetom Skyra scanner, using a block design paradigm.

Results:

Activation was noted in the following areas: cingulate and thalamus for positive and negative emotions, precuneus for negative emotion and pain, inferior parietal lobe for reading mind task and negative emotion, declive for reading mind and pain, and precuneus and frontal gyrus for reading mind task and facial recognition.

Conclusions:

There was no significant difference between MHP and OP groups on the behavioral measures. However, there were variations in cerebral and cerebellar activation in the functional imaging parameters.
Tumor metastasis has a significant relationship with the development of acute ischemic stroke in Chinese cancer patients: a retrospective study
Authors: Wu Siting , Xing Zengluan , Lin Jiacai , Cui Fang , Liu Hui
Published: January 2021

Objective

This study was designed to analyze the relationship between tumor metastasis and acute ischemic stroke (AIS) in Chinese cancer patients.

Methods

This retrospective study included 119 cancer patients with AIS and 152 cancer patients without AIS. Basic information was collected and tumor metastasis status was determined for all patients.

Results

The whole cohort had a median age of 59 (49–69) years with 150 men (55.4%). There were 98 patients (36.2%) with tumor metastasis. Patients with AIS had significantly more males, tumor metastasis, lung cancer, hypertension, diabetes mellitus, higher age, D-dimer, international normalized ratio, prothrombin time, prothrombin activity, and thrombin time, while they had significantly lower levels of hemoglobin, red blood cells, and hematocrit. In multivariate logistic regression analysis, AIS was significantly and positively associated with age, tumor metastasis, D-dimer, and thrombin time. In multivariate Cox regression analysis, tumor metastasis, AIS, D-dimer, thrombin time, and fibrinogen were significantly and positively associated with worse prognosis.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that tumor metastasis was positively and independently associated with AIS in Chinese cancer patients, suggesting that tumor metastasis has a significant relationship with the development of AIS. Additionally, tumor metastasis and AIS had negative independent effects on the prognosis of patients.
Influence of Patient Attitude on Bracket Failure Rate: A Prospective Study
Authors: Vasudevan Amritha , Antony Vincy , Francis PG , Parayaruthottam Prathapan , Shaloob Muhamed , TP Mohamed Haris
Published: January 2021

Objective:

The aim of this study is to assess the influence of general attitude and attitude toward orthodontic treatment on bracket failure rate.

Methods and Materials:

The sample comprised 128 orthodontic patients of both genders (82 women and 46 men), divided into two groups—adolescents (12-18 years old) and adults (19-25 years old), who underwent fixed orthodontic treatment with metallic braces. Two questionnaires were handed out—one before beginning the treatment and, the second, 6 months after the start of treatment. Both the questionnaires consisted of 12 questions with 5 options each, in which the attitude was scored from 1 to 5.

Conclusion:

Patients with poor attitude scoring had higher bracket failure rate and vice versa.
The role and significance of planning in the determination of house prices in Australia: Recent policy debates
Authors: Phibbs Peter , Gurran Nicole
Published: January 2021

On the world stage, Australian cities have been punching above their weight in global indexes of housing prices, sparking heated debates about the causes of and remedies for, sustained house price inflation. This paper examines the evidence base underpinning such debates, and the policy claims made by key commentators and stakeholders. With reference to the wider context of Australia’s housing market over a 20 year period, as well as an in depth analysis of a research paper by Australia’s central Reserve Bank, we show how economic theories commonly position land use planning as a primary driver of new supply constraints but overlook other explanations for housing market behavior. In doing so, we offer an alternative understanding of urban housing markets and land use planning interventions as a basis for more effective policy intervention in Australian and other world cities.
Learning Opportunities While Incarcerated: Association of Engagement in Literacy and Numeracy Activities With Literacy and Numeracy Skills
Authors: Olaghere Ajima , Kremer Kristen P. , Fong Carlton J.
Published: January 2021

Little is known about which educational activities are most associated with incarcerated adults’ literacy and numeracy skills. The present study examines whether informal engagement in reading, writing, and numeracy activities (e.g., reading newspapers or using calculators) is associated with incarcerated adults’ literacy and numeracy skills. Using the 2014 Program for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC)—U.S. Prison Study, numeracy/literacy skills were predicted from engagement in reading, writing, and numeracy activities. Literacy skills were higher among incarcerated persons who engaged in an increasing amount of writing activities along with those who completed postsecondary coursework in prison. Literacy skills and numeracy skills were not significantly associated with engagement in reading activities and numeracy activities, respectively. Findings highlight promising strategies for restructuring prison education.
Biomechanical changes of freezer-storaged and decellularized pig tracheal scaffoldings
Authors: Wang Jinping , Zhang Haixiang , Feng Yangmeng , Sun Yang , Ma Ruina , Cui Pengcheng
Published: January 2021

Background

As an excellent xenotransplant, the pig trachea can be decellularized and cryopreserved to reduce its immunogenicity. However, few reports are found on the changes of its mechanical properties after cryopreservation and decellularization.

Objective

To evaluate the structure and biomechanical properties in pig tracheal scaffolds resulting from decellularized and cryopreserved.

Material and methods

Twenty-five pig tracheal segments were separated into five groups: untreated (group A), only decellularized (group B), only cryopreserved (group C), decellularized after cryopreserved (group D) and cryopreserved after decellularized (group E). Tracheal segments were subjected to uniaxial tension or compression using a universal testing machine to determine structural biomechanical changes.

Results

It showed that there was no statistically significant difference in the tensile strength of the trachea in each group. The compressive strength of group B, C and D were same as the group A ( P > 0.05), while the group E was lower than that of the group A ( P < 0.05). Conclusions and significance: The histological examination of the decellularization after cryopreservation shows that the removal of epithelial cells and submucosal cells is more thorough, and the biomechanical structure of the trachea is better preserved. This proved to be a new method to prepare xenotransplantation of trachea graft.
The Mediating Role of Positive Orientation and Hope of Success in the Relationship Between Perceived Social Support and Facebook Intrusion
Authors: Błachnio Agata , Przepiórka Aneta , Cudo Andrzej
Published: January 2021

The social aspect of human functioning seems to play a considerable role in the explanation of the Facebook intrusion phenomenon. The present article examines the relation between social support and Facebook intrusion, with hope of success and positive orientation controlled for. We administered the Facebook Intrusion Questionnaire, the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support, the Positive Orientation Scale, and the Hope of Success Questionnaire. The participants in the online study were 611 Polish Facebook users, whose mean age was 20.79 years ( SD = 2.38). The results show that there is no direct relationship between social support and Facebook intrusion, but there is an indirect one, with hope of success and positive orientation as mediators. We have found that social support weakens Facebook intrusion via positive orientation in both genders and via hope of success in men. Moreover, a low level of personal resources contributes to problematic Facebook use. The study has also revealed that individuals who use social media in a problematic way focus on the present rather than on the future.
How Do Human Resource Management Practices Matter in Young Employees’ Intention to Stay in Chinese State-owned Enterprises?
Authors: Xiayan Peng , Yusoff Yusmani Mohd , Bohari Abdul Manaf
Published: January 2021

Improving young employees’ intention to stay through appropriate human resource management (HRM) practices has always been a concern for enterprises. Based on literature review, the previous research results showed that the relationship between HRM practices and employees’ intention to stay was not always consistent. Therefore, this study aims to examine the relationship between HRM practices and young employees’ intention to stay. A quantitative research study was conducted via survey among young employees below 35 years in 11 state-owned enterprises in Tongling City, Anhui Province, China. Purposive sampling method was used in this study and a total of 127 questionnaires were collected and used for data analysis. The structured equation modeling-partial least squares (SEM-PLS) method is used to examine the research framework. The research findings confirm that HRM practices including recruitment and selection, performance appraisal, and compensation have significant positive influences on young employees’ intention to stay; however, training and development cannot significantly influence young employees’ intention to stay. Hence, the relationship between HRM practices and intention to stay to ensure the achievement of organizational goals by retaining more young employees in China’s state-owned enterprises is intertwined.
Music Teacher Education Program Practices: Preparing Teachers to Work With Diverse Learners
Authors: Culp Mara E. , Salvador Karen
Published: January 2021

Music educators must meet the needs of students with diverse characteristics, including but not limited to cultural backgrounds, musical abilities and interests, and physical, behavioral, social, and cognitive functioning. Music education programs may not systematically prepare preservice teachers or potential music teacher educators for this reality. The purpose of this study was to examine how music teacher education programs prepare undergraduate and graduate students to structure inclusive and responsive experiences for diverse learners. We replicated and expanded Salvador’s study by including graduate student preparation, incorporating additional facets of human diversity, and contacting all institutions accredited by National Association of Schools of Music to prepare music educators. According to our respondents, integrated instruction focused on diverse learners was more commonly part of undergraduate coursework than graduate coursework. We used quantitative and qualitative analysis to describe course offerings and content integration.
An Intron of Invertebrate Microphthalmia Transcription Factor Gene Is Evolved from a Longer Ancestral Sequence
Authors: Mao Jun-Ming , Wang Yong , Yang Liu , Yao Qin , Chen Ke-Ping
Published: January 2021

Introns are highly variable in number and size. Sequence simulation is an effective method to elucidate intron evolution patterns. Previously, we have reported that introns are more likely to evolve through mutation-and-deletion (MD) rather than through mutation-and-insertion (MI). In the present study, we further studied evolution models by allowing insertion in the MD model and by allowing deletion in the MI model at various frequencies. It was found that all deletion-biased models with proper parameter settings could generate sequences with attributes matchable to 16 invertebrate introns from the microphthalmia transcription factor gene, whereas all insertion-biased models with any parameter settings failed to generate such sequences. We conclude that the examined invertebrate introns may have evolved from a longer ancestral sequence in a deletion-biased pattern. The constructed models are useful for studying the evolution of introns from other genes and/or from other taxonomic groups. (C++ scripts of all deletion- and insertion-biased models are available upon request.)
Moving to Social Health Insurance Financing and Payment for HIV/AIDS Treatment in Vietnam
Authors: Vu Lan Thi Hoang , Johns Benjamin , Bui Quyen Thi Tu , Duong Thuy Anh , Nguyen Thi Diu , Nguyen Thi Hien , Nguyen Cam Anh
Published: January 2021

This study estimates the amount antiretroviral therapy (ART) clients paid out of pocket for preventive and treatment services and the percentage of ART clients incurring catastrophic payments during the period when ART services were transitioning from donor funding to domestic social health insurance (SHI) in Vietnam. Using a cross-sectional facility-based survey in 9 provinces, a sample of 582 clients across 18 ART facilities representatives of all facilities where SHI-financed ART was being implemented were interviewed in 2019. Results indicated 13.4% (95% CI: 5.7%, 28.2%) of clients incurred a payment for outpatient ART care. The average out of pocket expenditures for outpatient visits and HIV related outpatient visits was USD $71.2 and $8 per year, respectively. The average out of pocket expenditure for inpatient admission and HIV related inpatient admission was $7.1 and $1.6, respectively. Only 0.1% clients currently experienced HIV-related catastrophic payment at the 25% of total expenditures threshold. The study confirms the transition from donor-financed ART to SHI-financed ART is not causing financial hardship for ART clients. However, more commitment from the Government of Vietnam to strengthen HIV-related services under SHI may be needed in the future, and there is still need to ensure universal SHI coverage among people with HIV/AIDs in Vietnam.
Impact of Poor Oral Health on Community-Dwelling Seniors: A Scoping Review
Authors: Badewy Rana , Singh Harkirat , Quiñonez Carlos , Singhal Sonica
Published: January 2021

The aim of this scoping review was to determine health-related impacts of poor oral health among community-dwelling seniors. Using MeSH terms and keywords such as elderly, general health, geriatrics, 3 electronic databases—Medline, CINAHL, and Age Line were searched. Title and abstracts were independently screened by 3 reviewers, followed by full-texts review. A total of 131 articles met our inclusion criteria, the majority of these studies were prospective cohort (77%, n = 103), and conducted in Japan (42 %, n = 55). These studies were categorized into 16 general health outcomes, with mortality (24%, n = 34), and mental health disorders (21%, n = 30) being the most common outcomes linked with poor oral health. 90% (n = 120) of the included studies reported that poor oral health in seniors can subsequently lead to a higher risk of poor general health outcomes among this population. Improving access to oral healthcare services for elderly can help not only reduce the burden of oral diseases in this population group but also address the morbidity and mortality associated with other general health diseases and conditions caused due to poor oral health. Findings from this study can help identify shortcomings in existing oral healthcare programs for elderly and develop future programs and services to improve access and utilization of oral care services by elderly.
Depressive symptoms among patients with lung cancer: Elucidating the roles of shame, guilt, and self-compassion
Authors: Siwik Chelsea J , Phillips Kala , Zimmaro Lauren , Salmon Paul , Sephton Sandra E
Published: January 2021

The link between smoking and lung cancer predisposes patients to feeling shame and guilt, which increases risk for depression. To test the hypothesis shame would have a stronger association with depressive symptoms than guilt, a hierarchical regression was conducted. Three regressions were run to examine the associations of self-compassion with shame, guilt, and depressive symptoms. The best model to explain depressive symptoms included shame, but not guilt. Greater self-compassion was associated with less shame and fewer depressive symptoms, but not guilt. Results point to interventions targeting shame via enhancing self-compassion among patients with lung cancer and histories of smoking.
Renewal model for anomalous traffic in Internet2 links
Authors: Nicholson John , Kokoszka Piotr , Lund Robert , Kiessler Peter , Sharp Julia
Published: January 2021

We propose and estimate an alternating renewal model describing the propagation of anomalies in a backbone internet network in the United States. Internet anomalies, either caused by equipment malfunction, news events or malicious attacks, have been a focus of research in network engineering since the advent of the internet over 30 years ago. This article contributes to the understanding of statistical properties of the times between the arrivals of the anomalies, their duration and stochastic structure. Anomalous, or active, time periods are modelled as periods containing clusters or 1s, where 1 indicates a presence of an anomaly. The inactive periods consisting entirely of 0s dominate the 0–1 time series in every link. Since the active periods contain 0s, a separation parameter is introduced and estimated jointly with all other parameters of the model. Our statistical analysis shows that the integer-valued separation parameter and five other non-negative, scalar parameters satisfactorily describe all statistical properties of the observed 0–1 series.
Quiescent-Interval Slice Selective Magnetic Resonance Angiography for Abdominal Aortic Aneurysm Treatment Planning
Authors: Kazemtash Majid , Harth Marc , Derwich Wojciech , Thalhammer Axel , Schmitz-Rixen Thomas , Keese Michael
Published: January 2021

Purpose

Diagnostic imaging of Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) almost exclusively employs CT angiography (CTA) involving X-ray exposure and contrast medium that may harm some patients. Quiescent-Interval Slice Selective MR (QISS-MR) depicts vascular anatomy without radiation or contrast medium. The diagnostic quality of QISS-MRA and CTA were compared in regard to length and diameter measurements in AAA patients. Suitability of QISS-MRA for AAA treatment planning was evaluated.

Materials and Methods

The details of 30 patients with AAA who received both a QISS-MR and CTA for a known infrarenal AAA were obtained retrospectively that was approved by the local research ethics board. Two observers analyzed each dataset in terms of image quality and determined lumen diameter and length of 15 vessel segments.

Results

Highly accurate agreement between the diagnostic scores from the two observers was achieved. There was no significant difference between CTA and QISS-MRA for all 15 measured vessels. Although information on calcification was lacking and intraluminal thrombus was visualized in only 25 patients out of 30 patients, a founded decision to carry out OR or EVAR was possible with both imaging modalities.

Conclusion

QISS-MRA presents a radiation and contrast free method for preoperative diagnostic AAA imaging. While QISS-MRA does not deliver exact information regarding calcification and thrombus formation, it does accurately allow measurement of vessel diameter and length. Therefore, it is potentially useful for EVAR planning in selected patients with impaired renal function.
Diagnostic Value of Virtual Bronchoscopic Navigation Combined With Endobronchial Ultrasound Guided Transbronchial Lung Biopsy for Peripheral Pulmonary Lesions
Authors: Xu Chunhua , Wang Yan , Li Li , Yuan Qi , Wang Yuchao , Hu Huidi , Zhang Xiuwei
Published: January 2021

Objective:

X-ray guided transbronchial ultrasound-guided transbronchial lung biopsy (EBUS-TBLB) can improve the diagnostic yield of peripheral pulmonary lesions (PPLs), but it needs special requirements. The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical value of virtual bronchoscopy navigation (VBN) combined with EBUS-TBLB in the diagnosis of PPLs without X-ray guidance.

Methods:

The 105 patients with PPLs underwent EBUS-TBLB with or without VBN randomly. The diagnostic yield, the operation time and complications were evaluated in the 2 groups.

Results:

No significant difference was found between the VBN+EBUS group and the EBUS group (76.0% vs. 65.5%, P = 0.287). The operation time of VBN+EBUS group was significantly shorter than that of EBUS group (20.6 ± 12.8 min vs. 28.6 ± 14.3 min, P = 0.023). No severe procedure related complications occurred.

Conclusions:

VBN can shorten the operation time. The combination of VBN and EBUS-TBLB is a safe and effective diagnosis technique for PPLs.
Treatment of Dupuytren’s Contracture With Collagenase: A Systematic Review
Authors: Sandler Alexis B. , Scanaliato John P. , Dennis Thomas , Gonzalez Trevizo Gilberto A. , Raiciulescu Sorana , Nesti Leon , Dunn John C.
Published: January 2021

This systematic review investigates complications and recurrence of Dupuytren’s contracture in metacarpophalangeal joints (MCPJs) and/or proximal interphalangeal joints (PIPJs) of fingers treated with collagenase clostridium histolyticum (CCH). A review of the literature on Dupuytren’s disease was performed using PRISMA guidelines. Included publications described complications and/or recurrences for contractures ≥20° in MCPJs and/or PIPJs treated with CCH. Successful treatments reduced contractures to ≤5° immediately. Treatment-related adverse events (AEs) were classified as minor, major surgical, and major nonsurgical. Contracture recurrence involved return of fixed-flexion contracture ≥20° in a successfully treated finger in patients with ≥12 months of follow-up. Of 2675 patients (3753 joints), 94% experienced ≥1 treatment-related AE, most commonly peripheral edema (64%), pain in extremity (53%), and contusion (51%). Major surgical complications occurred in 9 patients (1.0%). Major nonsurgical complications occurred in 2 patients, specifically nonrupture tendon injury and anaphylaxis. Of 1488 patients (2069 joints), recurrences were reported in 23% of successfully treated joints (n = 466; 20% MCPJs, 28% PIPJs), on average 12 to 24 months after treatment. MCPJs achieved greater success than PIPJs in initial contracture reduction (77% versus 36%). CCH is a safe, effective treatment to improve hand function in Dupuytren’s contracture. Most AEs are minor and self-resolving, although the risk of major AEs still exists. Following treatment, 23% of successfully treated joints experience recurrence, typically within 12 to 24 months but sometimes as early as 6 months. Surgeons are encouraged to discuss these risks with patients for shared decision-making regarding optimal treatment modalities.
Clinical characteristics and pregnancy outcomes of women diagnosed with SARS-CoV-2 in London’s most ethnically diverse borough: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Milln Jack , Heard Samuel , Gunganah Kirun , Velauthar Luxmimalar , Saeed Ferha
Published: January 2021

Introduction

It is unclear whether pregnant women from ethnic minority groups and with metabolic disorders are disproportionately affected by SARS-CoV-2 infection within deprived areas. No previous studies have compared pregnancy outcomes with an appropriate comparator group.

Methods

Cross-sectional study of 32 women with SARS-CoV-2 compared to background departmental figures from the three months prior to the outbreak. Clinical characteristics were compared to the UK Obstetric Surveillance System report.

Results

Estimated incidence was 10 times the national average (50.3 vs 4.9 per 1000 maternities). Women from Black (OR, 95% CI: 3.01, 1.08–7.38) and Asian (OR, 95% CI: 2.68, 1.23–6.05) ethnic groups were over-represented; however, there was no association with metabolic disorders. Babies born to women diagnosed with coronavirus were more likely to be born premature, or by caesarean delivery, however there was no difference in birthweight centile for gestational age.

Conclusion

Women from Black and Asian backgrounds are disproportionately affected, even within an area of high ethnic diversity. Mothers do not appear more severely affected than women nationally; however, babies are more likely to be born preterm, or by caesarean delivery, compared to usual departmental figures. It is unclear whether this is due to increased intervention or a direct result of coronavirus infection.
An introduction to urgent care for the GP trainee
Authors: Hodgins Peter , McEntee Edel
Published: January 2021

Working in urgent care requires the ability to manage medical, surgical, social and mental health presentations. It is essential to understand the organisational aspects of how such care is provided. Communication and consultation skills need to be adapted to different clinical contexts. Self-management of safety, time, and stress are important capabilities. One of the requirements of GP training is to demonstrate capabilities in urgent care, including delivery of safe patient care, demonstration of effective communication skills, maintaining continuity for patients and coordinating care across services. In this article we aim to give GP trainees an overview of the urgent care service in Scotland and to give advice on best practice.
Japanese divine light in Kinshasa: transcultural resonance and critique in the religiously multiple city
Authors: Lambertz Peter
Published: January 2021

The Japanese “new religions” ( Shin Shūkyō) active in Kinshasa (DR Congo) nearly all perform healing through the channeling of invisible divine light. In the case of Sekai Kyūseikyō (Church of World Messianity), the light of Johrei cannot be visually apprehended, but is worn as an invisible aura on the practitioner’s body. This article discusses the trans-cultural resonances between Japan and Central Africa regarding the ontology of spiritual force, regimes of subjectivity, and the gradual embodiment of Johrei divine light as a protection against (suspicions of) witchcraft. Meanwhile, I argue that religious multiplicity in urban Africa encourages cultural reflexivity about concepts of health and healing, self-responsibility, and Pentecostal suspicion-mongering of occult sciences. Thus, Johrei divine light not only feeds into a longstanding local tradition of spiritual healing; within the religiously multiple city, it is also a discursive space for, and an experience and performance of, emic critique.
The Role of Psychological Empowerment in Reducing Job Burnout Among Police Officers: A Variable-Centered and Person-Centered Approach
Authors: Gong Zhenxing , Li Meiying , Niu Xiaoqing
Published: January 2021

The study aimed to assess the effect of psychological empowerment on burnout from variable-centered and person-centered perspective. Based on 363 questionnaires from police officers in China, the results of this study indicate that when police officer feel higher level of psychological empowerment, job burnout can be decreased among Chinese police officers. From the person-centered perspective, this study used latent profile analysis method to divide three different job burnouts, including low job burnout, moderate job burnout, and high job burnout. Police officers with a high level of emotional exhaustion were more likely to have the high job burnout profile compared with the other two job burnout profiles. Police officers with a low level of depersonalization and reduced personal accomplishment were more likely to have the moderate and low job burnout profile compared with others. Different job burnout profiles can be impacted by psychological empowerment.
Associations between bone turnover markers and bone mineral density in older adults
Authors: Zhu Zhongxin , Zhou Hongliang , Wang Yanfei , Yao Xiaocong
Published: January 2021

Objective:

To examine the associations between bone turnover markers (BTMs) and bone mineral density (BMD) in older adults aged 60–85 years.

Methods:

A total of 1124 men (mean age, 69.1 years) and 1203 women (mean age, 70.7 years) from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 1999–2002 were included in this cross-sectional analysis. Independent variables were serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase (sBAP) and urinary N-telopeptide (uNTx), which are biomarkers of bone formation and resorption, respectively. Outcome variable was lumbar BMD. The associations of sBAP and uNTx levels with lumbar BMD was examined using multivariable linear regression models.

Results:

sBAP was negatively associated with lumbar BMD in each multivariable linear regression model, and this negative association was stable in both men and women men (men: β = −0.0028, 95% CI: −0.0046 to −0.0010; women: β = −0.0039, 95% CI: −0.0054 to −0.0023). On the other hand, uNTx was negatively associated with lumbar BMD after adjustment of relevant covariables (β = −0.0328, 95% CI: −0.0523 to −0.0133). However, in the subgroup analysis stratified by gender, this negative association remained only in older women (β = −0.0491, 95% CI: −0.0751 to −0.0231).

Conclusion:

Our study suggested that elevated sBAP and uNTX levels correlated with decreased lumbar BMD, especially in older women. This finding indicated that maintaining BTMs at low levels may be beneficial to bone health for older adults.