bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cartographies of poverty: Rethinking statistics, aesthetics and the law
Authors: Rizzini Ansari Moniza
Published: February 2022

The article explores cartographic and statistical registers of poverty as geo-legal technologies operating across shifting visual economies which structure ways of seeing and concealing ‘the poor’ in the urban landscape. Drawing on the fields of critical cartography and digital urbanism, and taking a 2013 controversy around Google Maps’ mapping of favelas in Rio de Janeiro as a starting point, it investigates the aesthetic role of digital maps and data in the legal geographies of urban poverty. It is argued that sociospatial encodings give form to poverty in ways that activate antipoverty responses and continuously support correlations between poverty and criminality. This argument entails a post-representational approach to maps considering their inscriptional, propositional and normative functions. Cartography, statistics and law are interrogated as devices of global governance that work aesthetically to shape poverty and its modes of appearance in the city, i.e., as productive methods of documentation as well as world-making, through which geocodings simultaneously create images of poverty and become functional of spatial transformations. Poverty is thus conceptualized as it is made into an aesthetic category subjected to continuous geo-legal modulations.
Evaluating the Impact of Strong and Weak California Flavored Tobacco Sales Restriction Policies on the Tobacco Retail Environment
Authors: Welwean Ralph Amuanyu , Andersen-Rodgers Elizabeth , Akintunde Adebayo , Zhang Xueying
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Evaluate success of local flavored tobacco (FT) policies in reducing availability of FT products in California.

Design

Matched-jurisdiction cross-sectional design compared availability of FT at licensed tobacco retailers (LTR) in jurisdictions with and without such policies in 2013 and 2019. Flavor policy jurisdictions were split into strong and weak groups using Flavored Tobacco Policy Rating Rubric.

Setting

32 local California jurisdictions

Subjects

Final sample included 306 LTR in 2013 and 1441 LTR in 2019. LTR were classified as convenience store, liquor store, pharmacy, small market, supermarket, gas station booth, tobacco/vape product store, or other.

Measures

Retail availability of menthol cigarettes and flavored non-cigarette tobacco.

Analysis

Logistic regression analysis including covariate (store type) determined whether differences existed in availability of FT in jurisdictions with and without FT policies. Percentage change assessed difference in proportion of retailers that sold FT in 2013 (i.e. before-policies-passed) and in 2019 (i.e. after-policies-became-effective).

Results

Strong flavor-policy jurisdictions significantly differed from matched no-policy jurisdictions in availability of menthol cigarettes (OR = .04, 95% CI: .02–.08) and flavored non-cigarette tobacco (OR = .07, 95% CI: .05–.11). From 2013 to 2019, these jurisdictions experienced significant declines in menthol cigarettes (87.9% to 35.4%) and flavored non-cigarette tobacco sales (63.8% to 37.0%).

Conclusion

Strong FT sales restriction policies appear to be effective in reducing availability of FT, thereby creating a healthier retail environment in California.
Nurturing the Mathematical Brain: Home Numeracy Practices Are Associated With Children’s Neural Responses to Arabic Numerals
Authors: Girard Cléa , Bastelica Thomas , Léone Jessica , Epinat-Duclos Justine , Longo Léa , Prado Jérôme
Published: February 2022

Disparities in home numeracy environments contribute to variations in children’s mathematical skills. However, the neural mechanisms underlying the relation between home numeracy experiences and mathematical learning are unknown. Here, parents of 66 eight-year-olds completed a questionnaire assessing the frequency of home numeracy practices. Neural adaptation to the repetition of Arabic numerals and words was measured in children using functional MRI ( n = 50) to assess how sensitive the brain is to the presentation of numerical and nonnumerical information. Disparities in home numeracy practices were related to differences in digit (but not word) processing in a region of the left intraparietal sulcus (IPS) that was also related to children’s arithmetic fluency. Furthermore, digit-related processing in the IPS influenced the relation between home numeracy practices and arithmetic fluency. Results were consistent with a model hypothesizing that home numeracy practices may affect children’s mathematical skills by modulating the IPS response to symbolic numerical information.
The Role of Conjunctive Representations in Stopping Actions
Authors: Kikumoto Atsushi , Sameshima Tesufuaishin , Mayr Ulrich
Published: February 2022

Action selection appears to rely on conjunctive representations that nonlinearly integrate task-relevant features. Here, we tested a corollary of this hypothesis: that such representations are also intricately involved during attempts to stop an action—a key aspect of action regulation. We tracked both conjunctive representations and those of constituent rule, stimulus, or response features through trial-by-trial representational similarity analysis of the electroencephalogram signal in a combined rule-selection and stop-signal paradigm. Across two experiments with student participants ( N = 57), we found (a) that the strength of decoded conjunctive representations prior to the stop signal uniquely predicted trial-by-trial stopping success (Experiment 1) and (b) that these representations were selectively suppressed following the onset of the stop signal (Experiments 1 and 2). We conclude that conjunctive representations are key to successful action execution and therefore need to be suppressed when an intended action is no longer appropriate.
“Police Sexual Violence: A Study of Policewomen as Victims”
Authors: Sands Angela , Westerman Laurel , Prochnau Jenna , Blankenau Henry
Published: February 2022

Police sexual violence (PSV) is an understudied but critically important topic in police research. This paper uncovers and examines an extremely hidden form of PSV: sexual assaults of female police officers by male police officers. Our qualitative analysis reveals how male police officers of widely varying ranks and years of experience sexually assault female police officers. Victims reported that the number of male police officers who sexually assault female police officers is small; however, victims reported that these officers are often serial offenders who also assault professional staff and citizens. Victims identified available investigative processes and reporting protocols, but they were afraid to report incidents due to concerns about potential retaliation from administrators and co-workers, limited career advancement or termination, being negatively viewed by co-workers, and simply not being believed. Victims believed that certain hypermasculine aspects of their agency and profession's culture allowed acts of PSV to happen, go unreported, and re-occur. We make several recommendations for how police administrators can address and prevent PSV in their agencies.
Coaching and ‘Self-repair’: Examining the ‘Artful Practices’ of Coaching Work
Authors: Corsby Charles L T , Jones Robyn L , Thomas Gethin Ll , Edwards Christian N
Published: February 2022

The significance of this article lies in examining how sports coaches construct and negotiate their professional sense making; what Goffman described as the practices engaged in to manage ‘ugly’ interpretations. Using the work of Garfinkel and Goffman, the article pays attention to coaches’ ‘ethno-methods’; that is, the background knowledge and practical competency employed in forming and maintaining social order. In doing so, the explanatory accounts of Christian, a coach and author who supported the co-construction of this work, were collected via recorded interviews over the course of a 3-month period during a competitive season. The analysis explores the procedures used to ‘achieve coherence’ in what he did. The analysis employed Garfinkel’s description of ‘artful practices’ and related concepts of ‘self repair’ to demonstrate the fundamental interactional ‘work’ done by Christian, not only to understand why he did what he did, but also how he would ‘get things done’ in future. Such analysis highlights the mundane routines of coaching in particular, and work settings in general, to reveal the backstage manufacturing individuals ‘do’ to maintain a sense of ‘practical objectivity’ to their continual inferences, judgements, and justifications of practice.
Mental health screening in pediatric primary care for children with autism
Authors: Stadnick Nicole A , Martinez Kassandra , Coleman Karen J , Gizzo Daniel P , Lane Elizabeth , Lee Nicholas , Kuelbs Cynthia L , Aarons Gregory A , Brookman-Frazee Lauren
Published: February 2022

To report mental health screening rates in pediatric primary care as part of a larger program piloting Access to Tailored Autism INtegrated Care, a model promoting timely identification of mental health needs and care linkage for children with autism. Data were extracted from the Access to Tailored Autism INtegrated Care pilot in six pediatrics clinics within two organizations. Demographics and Pediatric Symptom Checklist-17 data were collected during well-child visit appointments over 4 months for 166 children with autism ages 4–16 years. 53% ( n = 43) of 81 eligible children were screened in Organization 1 and 55% ( n = 47) of 85 of eligible children were screened in Organization 2. In Organization 1, 47% screened positive, as evidenced by an elevated Pediatric Symptom Checklist-17 Total Score, while 36% screened positive in Organization 2. Children with positive screens had elevations on the Pediatric Symptom Checklist-17 Externalizing and Attention subscales but not on the Internalizing subscale, confirming typical trends in co-occurring challenging behavior presentations in children with autism. Slightly over half of eligible patients were Pediatric Symptom Checklist-17 screened. Positive screening rates were high, reinforcing the co-occurring nature of mental health needs in children with autism. Findings suggest opportunities to improve mental health screening in primary care for children with autism.

Lay abstract

Children with autism experience high rates of co-occurring mental health conditions like challenging behaviors and anxiety. However, these co-occurring mental health needs are often not identified when they first become problematic. Pediatricians and their care staff are in a good position to identify mental health needs early and support families to connect to needed services. This study describes a project focused on mental health screening for children with autism in pediatric primary care clinics. Over half of eligible patients were screened using the Pediatric Symptom Checklist-17. Many children with autism had clinically elevated scores, suggesting the need for mental health assessment or services. In particular, children with positive screens had clinical elevations on the challenging behavior and attention subscales of the Pediatric Symptom Checklist-17. This finding is consistent with typical trends in co-occurring challenging behavior presentations in children with autism. Mental health screening in primary care is feasible and offers a promising opportunity to identify co-occurring mental health needs for children with autism early. Screening rates varied between clinics, suggesting tailored to improve routine screening in pediatric primary care for children with autism.
Accounting for complexity in healthcare innovation debates: Professional views on the use of new IVF treatments
Authors: Geampana Alina , Perrotta Manuela
Published: February 2022

Social scientists have long been interested in the forces and values driving healthcare innovation. The simultaneous rise of 20th century healthcare reforms, increased importance of evidence and upsurge in lay health activism have shaped modern medicine. On this backdrop, fertility care emerged in the 1970s. Recent developments reveal a contentious relationship between new fertility treatments and clinical evidence, with emerging technologies being used without conclusive evidence of effectiveness despite being sold to patients. Initial critiques of this phenomenon emphasise commercial interests as the culprit, suggesting that the problematic use of unproven treatments is mainly driven by the private sector. Here, we challenge this over-simplified view of IVF care. Drawing on a qualitative analysis of key documents and 43 in-depth professional interviews, this article identifies three main stakeholder approaches to new treatment adoption. We argue that viewpoints are anchored within three critical overarching ‘modes of coordination’ or core values in modern healthcare: efficiency, effectiveness and patient-centeredness. This analysis encourages a more contextualised overview of fertility care than previous literatures have afforded. The IVF case shows that an emphasis on private versus public clinic practices obscure similarities between the two along with the values motivating healthcare professionals’ approaches to new treatments.
Three dimensional free vibration analysis of functionally graded graphene reinforced composite laminated cylindrical panel
Authors: babaei Masoud , Kiarasi Faraz , Tehrani Mehran Soltani , Hamzei Amin , Mohtarami Ehsan , Asemi Kamran
Published: February 2022

In this paper, natural frequency analysis of functionally graded graphene platelet (GPL) reinforced composite cylindrical panel is investigated. Halpin-Tsai equations are employed to obtain the mechanical properties of the structure. The linear three-dimensional elasticity theory based on the Hamilton principle and the numerical finite element method are used for obtaining the governing equations of motion. Four patterns of GPL distributions such as: FG-X, FG-V, FG-O and UD are assumed through the thickness of shell. The effects of various parameters such as different distributions and weight fractions of GPL, zigzag and armchair lay-up, geometry and different boundary conditions on the natural frequencies and mode shapes of shell have been investigated. The results indicate that the maximum and minimum natural frequencies belong to FG-X pattern and FG-O pattern, respectively.
Influence of cyclic aging on adhesive mode mixity in dissimilar composite/metal double cantilever beam joints
Authors: Moazzami Mostafa , Ayatollahi Majid R , Akhavan-Safar Alireza , Teixeira De Freitas Sofia , Poulis Johannes A , da Silva Lucas FM
Published: February 2022

The adhesive layer in the adhesive joints can experience different modes of loading. Although the fracture energy of adhesive is generally considered to be a material parameter, it is found to be a function of the joint configuration too. Thus, to accurately simulate the behaviour of bonded joints, it is recommended to obtain the fracture energy of the joints using the same substrate(s) as in real applications. In some applications, it is necessary to join dissimilar substrates using adhesives. However, for pure mode fracture tests it is essential to reach the desired loading mode even in a dissimilar joint. Not only the joint configuration but also the environmental conditions need to be considered in fracture tests. In this condition, due to the aging, the stiffness of substrates and adhesive layer might change, and as a result, the adhesive may experience a mixed-mode loading condition. The current study aims to investigate the variation of the mode mixity for dissimilar double cantilever beam adhesive joints with composite/metal substrates subjected to cyclic aging. At different stages of the aging cycles, the mode mixity was calculated during the test using displacement fields obtained by digital image correlation and based on the Williams series expansion. In addition, the variation of flexural stiffness of polymer matrix composite substrates after cyclic aging was investigated using a three-point bending test Finally, based on the variation of composite substrate flexural stiffness and using the finite element method, the variation of the mode-mixity ratio was calculated numerically and compared to the experimental results. The obtained results show that during the cyclic aging the moisture diffusion decreases flexural stiffness of polymer matrix composite substrates significantly, but the variation of substrate flexural stiffness deviates the mode mixity in the aged double cantilever beam specimens.
Middling whiteness: The shifting positionalities of Europeans in China
Authors: Camenisch Aldina
Published: February 2022

Drawing on ethnographic research, this article explores the multifaceted, situational and shifting social boundaries in the translocational positionalities of middle-class Swiss migrants in China. The analysis unpacks the central role of whiteness and Western ethnicity under the ‘Chinese gaze’, intersected by nationality. However, while they are marked by continuities of white privilege, the resulting racialised positionalities of the foreign white ‘others’ are characterised by a simultaneous elevation and subjugation, equally shaped by a ‘Chinese ascendancy’. European migrants’ self-positionings meander between this ambiguous ‘outsiderness’ and a propensity for integration as they navigate the multifaceted middle positions they occupy. Contextualising the findings in research on white migration movements from the West, the conclusion suggests that the class-based notion of middling migration should be refined by including economic, social and cultural ways of being ‘of the middle’.
The interaction and pathogenesis between cognitive impairment and common cardiovascular diseases in the elderly
Authors: Zuo Wenhang , Wu Jinhui
Published: February 2022

Both cognitive impairment and cardiovascular diseases have a high incidence in the elderly population, increasing the burden of care and reducing the quality of life. Studies have suggested that cognitive impairment interacts with cardiovascular diseases such as coronary heart disease, abnormal blood pressure, heart failure, and arrhythmia. On one hand, cognitive impairment in the elderly influences the progression and self-management of cardiovascular diseases and increases the risk of cardiovascular-related adverse events. On the other hand, coronary heart disease, heart failure, higher blood pressure variability, orthostatic hypotension, and atrial fibrillation may aggravate cognitive impairment. The role of blood pressure levels on cognition remains controversial. Several shared biological pathways have been proposed as the underlying mechanism for the association. Cardiovascular diseases may lead to cognitive decline even dementia through cerebral perfusion damage, brain structural changes, inflammation, β-amyloid deposition, and neuroendocrine disorders. It is of great significance to study the interaction and put forward effective interventions in an overall perspective to reduce care burden and improve the quality of life of the elderly patients.
Engaging Stakeholders in the Development of a Reproductive Goals Decision AID for Women with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Stransky Olivia M. , Pam Molly , Ladores Sigrid L. , Birru Talabi Mehret , Borrero Sonya , Godfrey Emily M. , Roe Andrea H. , Sawicki Gregory S. , Zuckerwise Lisa C. , Mody Sheila , Mentch Laura , Deal Ashley , O’Leary Raelynn , Taylor-Cousar Jennifer L. , Jain Raksha , Kazmerski Traci M.
Published: February 2022

Objective: More people with cystic fibrosis (pwCF) are reaching adulthood and considering their reproductive futures. Unfortunately, many pwCF report gaps in their reproductive healthcare. We describe measures of stakeholder engagement in developing a reproductive goals decision aid for women with CF called MyVoice:CF. Methods: Stakeholders reviewed the content, design, and usability of the tool, which was informed by prior research related to CF family planning experiences and preferences as well as a conceptual understanding of reproductive decision making. We evaluated stakeholder engagement via process measures and outcomes of stakeholder involvement. We collected data via recorded stakeholder recommendations and surveys. Results: Fourteen stakeholders participated and the majority described their role on the project as “collaborator”, “advisor”, or “expert.” Most felt their expectations for the project were met or exceeded, that they had contributed significantly, and that they received sufficient and frequent information about the process. All stakeholders provided recommen­dations and clarified aims for a CF-specific family planning tool, including its content and focus on facilitating shared decision making. Discussion: Utilizing meaningful stakeholder contributions, we developed MyVoice:CF, a novel web-based decision aid to help women with CF engage in shared decision-making regarding their reproductive goals. Practical Value: Our findings from working with stakeholders for MyVoice:CF indicate that disease-specific reproductive health resources can and should be designed with input from individuals in the relevant communities.
Clinical Fate of Glenohumeral Osteoarthritis Following Intraarticular Corticosteroid Injection: An Analysis in 311 Shoulders
Authors: Kim H. Mike , Muhammad Maaz , Heil Sally D. , Smith Matthew J.
Published: February 2022

Background

Intraarticular corticosteroid injection is commonly used conservative treatment for glenohumeral osteoarthritis (OA). The purpose of this study was to investigate the clinical fate of symptomatic glenohumeral OA following intraarticular corticosteroid injection and to identify factors associated with undergoing shoulder arthroplasty.

Methods

Glenohumeral OA patients who had undergone at least one glenohumeral corticosteroid injection from 2012 to 2017 were identified. Data for demographics, comorbidities, number of injections, severity of radiographic arthritis, and subsequent treatment were collected up to February 2020. Data were analyzed to compare between patients who had eventually undergone shoulder arthroplasty and those who had not.

Results

A total of 311 shoulders (275 patients) were followed up for 3 to 8 years after the index injection. The mean age of patients was 64.7 years. There were 148 females, and 116 shoulders (37.3%) eventually underwent arthroplasty, 68 (21.9%) further injections only, 104 (33.4%) no further treatment, 14 (4.5%) a non-arthroplasty surgical procedure, and 9 (2.9%) were lost to follow up. Severity of radiographic arthritic changes, female sex, younger age, and nonsmoking status were found to be significantly associated with undergoing arthroplasty (p < 0.001, p = 0.014, p = 0.003, and p = 0.043, respectively).

Conclusion

Approximately one third of glenohumeral OA patients who had received an intraarticular corticosteroid injection eventually elected to undergo shoulder arthroplasty within 3 to 8 years of the injection. High-grade arthritic changes in radiographs, female gender, and younger age were found to be independent factors associated with undergoing arthroplasty. This information may be useful in counseling patients about their future clinical course. Level of Evidence: Level III Retrospective comparative study
Informing radiotherapy decisions in stage I/IIa Hodgkin lymphoma: modeling life expectancy using radiation dosimetry
Authors: Jones David A. , Candio Paolo , Shakir Rebecca , Ntentas Georgios , Ramroth Johanna , Gray Alastair M. , Cutter David J.
Published: February 2022

In recent randomized trials, omitting consolidative radiotherapy (RT) in early-stage Hodgkin lymphoma (ESHL) increased relapses. However, decades of follow-up are required to observe whether lower initial disease control is compensated by reduced risk of late effects. Extrapolation beyond trial follow-up is therefore necessary to inform current treatment decisions. To this end, we developed a microsimulation model to estimate lifetime quality-adjusted life years (QALYs) after combined modality treatment (CMT) or chemotherapy-alone for stage I/IIa ESHL. For CMT, the model included risks of breast and lung cancer, coronary heart disease, and ischemic stroke. Comparative outcomes were assessed for a clinically relevant range of example patients differing by age, sex, smoking status, and representative organs at risk (OAR) radiation doses informed by the RAPID trial. Analysis was performed with and without a 3.5% discount rate on future health. Smoking status had a large effect on optimal treatment choice. CMT was superior for nearly all never smoker example patients regardless of age, sex, and OAR doses. At a maximum, CMT produced a 1.095 (95% CI: 1.054-1.137) gain in undiscounted QALYs for a 20-year-old male never smoker with unilateral neck disease. In contrast, current smokers could substantially gain from chemotherapy-alone treatment. Again at a maximum, a 20-year-old male current smoker with bilateral neck and whole mediastinum involvement gained 3.500 (95% CI: 3.400 to 3.600) undiscounted QALYs with chemotherapy-alone treatment. Overall, CMT was more favorable the younger the patient, when future health discounting was included, and in never smokers.
Quantitative analysis of mRNA-1273 COVID-19 vaccination response in immunocompromised adult hematology patients
Authors: Haggenburg Sabine , Lissenberg-Witte Birgit I. , van Binnendijk Rob S. , den Hartog Gerco , Bhoekhan Michel S. , Haverkate Nienke J. E. , de Rooij Dennis M. , van Meerloo Johan , Cloos Jacqueline , Kootstra Neeltje A. , Wouters Dorine , Weijers Suzanne S. , van Leeuwen Ester M. M. , Bontkes Hetty J. , Tonouh-Aajoud Saïda , Heemskerk Mirjam H. M. , Sanders Rogier W. , Roelandse-Koop Elianne , Hofsink Quincy , Groen Kazimierz , Çetinel Lucia , Schellekens Louis , den Hartog Yvonne M. , Toussaint Belle , Kant Iris M. J. , Graas Thecla , de Pater Emma , Dik Willem A. , Engel Marije D. , Pierie Cheyenne R. N. , Janssen Suzanne R. , van Dijkman Edith , Poniman Meliawati , Burger Judith A. , Bouhuijs Joey H. , Smits Gaby , Rots Nynke Y. , Zweegman Sonja , Kater Arnon P. , van Meerten Tom , Mutsaers Pim G. N. J. , van Doesum Jaap A. , Broers Annoek E. C. , van Gils Marit J. , Goorhuis Abraham , Rutten Caroline E. , Hazenberg Mette D. , Nijhof Inger S.
Published: February 2022

Vaccination guidelines for patients treated for hematological diseases are typically conservative. Given their high risk for severe COVID-19, it is important to identify those patients that benefit from vaccination. We prospectively quantified serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) antibodies to spike subunit 1 (S1) antigens during and after 2-dose mRNA-1273 (Spikevax/Moderna) vaccination in hematology patients. Obtaining S1 IgG ≥ 300 binding antibody units (BAUs)/mL was considered adequate as it represents the lower level of S1 IgG concentration obtained in healthy individuals, and it correlates with potent virus neutralization. Selected patients (n = 723) were severely immunocompromised owing to their disease or treatment thereof. Nevertheless, >50% of patients obtained S1 IgG ≥ 300 BAUs/mL after 2-dose mRNA-1273. All patients with sickle cell disease or chronic myeloid leukemia obtained adequate antibody concentrations. Around 70% of patients with chronic graft-versus-host disease (cGVHD), multiple myeloma, or untreated chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) obtained S1 IgG ≥ 300 BAUs/mL. Ruxolitinib or hypomethylating therapy but not high-dose chemotherapy blunted responses in myeloid malignancies. Responses in patients with lymphoma, patients with CLL on ibrutinib, and chimeric antigen receptor T-cell recipients were low. The minimal time interval after autologous hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) to reach adequate concentrations was <2 months for multiple myeloma, 8 months for lymphoma, and 4 to 6 months after allogeneic HCT. Serum IgG4, absolute B- and natural killer–cell number, and number of immunosuppressants predicted S1 IgG ≥ 300 BAUs/mL. Hematology patients on chemotherapy, shortly after HCT, or with cGVHD should not be precluded from vaccination. This trial was registered at Netherlands Trial Register as #NL9553.
In Situ Coupling Applied Voltage and Synchrotron Radiation: Operando Characterization of Transistors
Authors: Davydok Anton , Luponosov Yuriy N. , Ponomarenko Sergey A. , Grigorian Souren
Published: February 2022

A compact voltage application setup has been developed for in situ electrical testing of organic field effect transistors in combination with X-ray scattering studies at a synchrotron beamlines. Challenges faced during real condition in-operando test of newly developed OFETs originated an idea of creation of a new setup which excludes number of factors that make experiments complicated. The application of the setup is demonstrated on a prototype of an organic transistors based on α,ω-dihexyl-α-quaterthiophene molecules. The new setup allows to monitor material structural changes by X-ray scattering under applied voltage conditions and their direct correlations. The versatile setup eliminates possible shadowing effects and short circuits due to misalignment of the contacts. The electrical stability of the prototypes was characterized by the application of different voltage values. Corresponding structural changes were monitored by grazing X-ray scattering technique before, during and after the voltage was applied. The selected oligothiophene material with proved transistor properties shows high stability and directional anisotropy under applied voltage conditions. Thanks to a compact and flexible design of the setup, different type of small dimension devices could be studied under external voltage conditions at various synchrotron beamlines.

Graphical Abstract
The Ability of Silicon Fertilisation to Alleviate Salinity Stress in Rice is Critically Dependent on Cultivar
Authors: Thorne Sarah J. , Stirnberg Petra M. , Hartley Susan E. , Maathuis Frans J. M.
Published: February 2022

Silicon (Si) fertiliser can improve rice (Oryza sativa) tolerance to salinity. The rate of Si uptake and its associated benefits are known to differ between plant genotypes, but, to date, little research has been done on how the benefits, and hence the economic feasibility, of Si fertilisation varies between cultivars. In this study, a range of rice cultivars was grown both hydroponically and in soil, at different levels of Si and NaCl, to determine cultivar variation in the response to Si. There was significant variation in the effect of Si, such that Si alleviated salt-induced growth inhibition in some cultivars, while others were unaffected, or even negatively impacted. Thus, when assessing the benefits of Si supplementation in alleviating salt stress, it is essential to collect cultivar-specific data, including yield, since changes in biomass were not always correlated with those seen for yield. Root Si content was found to be more important than shoot Si in protecting rice against salinity stress, with a root Si level of 0.5–0.9% determined as having maximum stress alleviation by Si. A cost–benefit analysis indicated that Si fertilisation is beneficial in mild stress, high-yield conditions but is not cost-effective in low-yield production systems.
The effect of a novel anticonvulsant chemical Q808 on gut microbiota and hippocampus neurotransmitters in pentylenetetrazole-induced seizures in rats
Authors: Li Xiang , Wang Qing , Wu Di , Zhang Dian-wen , Li Shu-chang , Zhang Si-wei , Chen Xia , Li Wei
Published: February 2022

Background

The gut microbiota can modulate brain function and behavior and is increasingly recognized as an important factor in mediating the risk of epilepsy and the effects of seizure interventions. Drug therapy is one of the factors that influence the composition of the intestinal microbiota. Q808 is an innovative chemical with strong anticonvulsant activity and low neurotoxicity. However, studies evaluating the effect of Q808 on gut microbial communities are lacking. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the anticonvulsant activity of Q808 on a pentylenetetrazol (PTZ)—induced seizure model and analyze and compare the intestinal microbiota composition of non-PTZ vehicle control group, the PTZ-induced seizure model rats with and without Q808, through 16S rDNA sequencing. Neurotransmitter levels in the hippocampus were quantitatively estimated using HPLC–MS.

Results

The results suggest that Q808 effectively alleviates seizures in chronic PTZ-kindled model rats. Additionally, based on the analyzed abundance of the gut microbiota, dysbacteriosis of model rats was found to be corrected after Q808 treatment at the phylum level. The unique bacterial taxa (e.g., Lactobacillus) that are associated with acetylcholine production, were significantly increased. Several short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs)-producing bacteria, including Roseburia, Alloprevptella, Prevotellaceae_NK3B31_group, Prevotellaceae_UCG-001, and Prevotella_9, were enriched. In the hippocampus, the contents of acetylcholine increased, whereas the levels of 3-methoxytyramine, glutamine, and 5-hydroxyindole acetic acid (5-HIAA) decreased after Q808 treatment.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that Q808 can be used to remodel the dysbiosis of the gut microbiome and influence neurotransmitter levels in the hippocampus of PTZ-induced seizure model rats. We hope that these novel findings prompt further research on the interaction between gut microbiota and seizures and the mechanism of Q808.
Longitudinal association between personality traits and homebound status in older adults: results from the National Health and Aging Trends Study
Authors: Sun Xiaocao , Tang Siyuan , Miyawaki Christina E. , Li Yuxiao , Hou Tianxue , Liu Minhui
Published: February 2022

Background

Personality is associated with predictors of homebound status like frailty, incident falls, mobility, and depression. However, the relationship between personality traits and homebound status is unclear. This study aims to examine the longitudinal association between personality traits and homebound status among older adults.

Methods

Using data of non-homebound community-dwelling adults aged 65 years and older in the 2013 and 2014 waves (baseline) of the National Health and Aging Trends Study (N = 1538), this study examined the association between personality traits and homebound status. Homebound status (non-homebound, semi-homebound, and homebound) was determined by the frequency of going outside, difficulty in going outside, and whether there was help when going outside. Personality traits, including conscientiousness, extraversion, neuroticism, openness, and agreeableness were assessed using the 10-item Midlife Development Inventory on a rating scale from 1 (not at all) to 4 (a lot). Ordered logistic regression models were used to examine whether personality traits predicted homebound status in later 3 years with and without adjusting covariates.

Results

The sample was on average 77.0 ± 6.70 years old, and 55% were female. The majority were non-Hispanic whites (76%), and received some college or vocational school education or higher (55%). Homebound participants tended to be less educated older females. Three years later, 42 of 1538 baseline-non-homebound participants (3%) became homebound, and 195 participants (13%) became semi-homebound. Among these five personality traits, high conscientiousness (adjusted odds ratio [OR] = 0.73, p < 0.01) was associated with a low likelihood of becoming homebound after adjusting demographic and health-related covariates.

Conclusions

These findings provided a basis for personality assessment to identify and prevent individuals from becoming homebound.
Analysis of the value of enhanced CT combined with texture analysis in the differential diagnosis of pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma and atypical peripheral lung cancer: a feasibility study
Authors: Luo Chenglong , Song Yiman , Liu Yiyang , Wang Rui , Gao Jianbo , Yue Songwei , Ding Changmao
Published: February 2022

Background

As a rare benign lung tumour, pulmonary sclerosing pneumocytoma (PSP) is often misdiagnosed as atypical peripheral lung cancer (APLC) on routine imaging examinations. This study explored the value of enhanced CT combined with texture analysis to differentiate between PSP and APLC.

Methods

Forty-eight patients with PSP and fifty patients with APLC were retrospectively enrolled. The CT image features of the two groups of lesions were analysed, and MaZda software was used to evaluate the texture of CT venous phase thin-layer images. Independent sample t-test, Mann–Whitney U tests or χ2 tests were used to compare between groups. The intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) was used to analyse the consistency of the selected texture parameters. Spearman correlation analysis was used to evaluate the differences in texture parameters between the two groups. Based on the statistically significant CT image features and CT texture parameters, the independent influencing factors between PSP and APLC were analysed by multivariate logistic regression. Extremely randomized trees (ERT) was used as the classifier to build models, and the models were evaluated by the five-fold cross-validation method.

Results

Logistic regression analysis based on CT image features showed that calcification and arterial phase CT values were independent factors for distinguishing PSP from APLC. The results of logistic regression analysis based on CT texture parameters showed that WavEnHL_s-1 and Perc.01% were independent influencing factors to distinguish the two. Compared with the single-factor model (models A and B), the classification accuracy of the model based on image features combined with texture parameters was 0.84 ± 0.04, the AUC was 0.84 ± 0.03, and the sensitivity and specificity were 0.82 ± 0.13 and 0.87 ± 0.12, respectively.

Conclusion

Enhanced CT combined with texture analysis showed good diagnostic value for distinguishing PSP and APLC, which may contribute to clinical decision-making and prognosis evaluation.
Prognostic significance of lateral pelvic lymph node dissection for middle-low rectal cancer patients with lateral pelvic lymph node metastasis: a propensity score matching study
Authors: Zhou Sicheng , Jiang Yujuan , Pei Wei , Liang Jianwei , Zhou Zhixiang
Published: February 2022

Background

There is still controversy regarding the clinical value and significance of lateral pelvic lymph node (LPN) dissection (LPND). The present study aimed to investigate whether the addition of LPND to total mesorectal excision (TME) confers survival benefits in rectal cancer patients with clinical lateral pelvic node metastasis (LPNM).

Methods

From January 2015 to January 2021, a total of 141 rectal cancer patients with clinical evidence of LPNM who underwent TME + LPND were retrospectively analysed and divided into the LPNM group (n = 29) and the non-LPNM group (n = 112). The LPNM group was further subdivided into a high-risk LPNM group (n = 14) and a low-risk LPNM group (n = 15). Propensity score matching (PSM) was performed to minimize selection bias. The primary outcomes of this study were 3-year overall survival (OS) and disease-free survival (DFS).

Results

Of the 141 patients undergoing LPND, the local recurrence rate of patients with LPNM was significantly higher than that of patients without LPNM both before (27.6% vs. 4.5%, P = 0.001) and after (27.6% vs. 3.4%, P = 0.025) PSM. Multivariate analysis revealed that LPNM was an independent risk factor for not only OS (HR: 3.06; 95% CI, 1.15–8.17; P = 0.025) but also DFS (HR: 2.39; 95% CI, 1.18–4.87; P = 0.016) in patients with LPNM after TME + LPND. When the LPNM group was further subdivided, multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that OS and DFS were significantly better in the low-risk group (obturator/internal iliac artery region and < 2 positive LPNs).

Conclusion

Even after LPND, LPNM patients have a poor prognosis. Moreover, LPNM is an independent poor prognostic factor affecting OS and DFS after TME + LPND. However, LPND appears to confer survival benefits to specific patients with single LPN involvement in the obturator region or internal iliac vessel region. Furthermore, LPND may have no indication in stage IV patients and should be selected carefully.
Physical fitness, physical activity and adiposity: associations with risk factors for cardiometabolic disease and cognitive function across adolescence
Authors: Williams Ryan A. , Cooper Simon B. , Dring Karah J. , Hatch Lorna , Morris John G. , Sun Feng-Hua , Nevill Mary E.
Published: February 2022

Background

The cross-sectional associations between physical activity, physical fitness and adiposity with risk factors for cardiometabolic disease (particularly novel ones such as inflammatory cytokines) and cognitive function across the period of adolescence are not well understood. Additionally, novel physical activity metrics that summarise activity volume and intensity in a continuous manner have not been investigated in this context. Therefore, this study investigated the cross-sectional associations between physical activity, physical fitness and adiposity with risk factors for cardiometabolic disease and cognitive function. These associations were compared between younger and older adolescents.

Methods

Seventy younger (11-12y, 35 girls) and 43 older (14-15y, 27 girls) adolescents volunteered to take part in the study. Physical fitness (multi-stage fitness test, MSFT) and adiposity (waist circumference) were determined, followed 7d later by resting blood pressure, a fasted blood sample (glucose, plasma insulin, IL6, IL10, IL15 and IL-1β concentrations) and a cognitive function test battery. Habitual physical activity was monitored via hip-worn accelerometers over this 7-d period and the average acceleration (activity volume), and intensity gradient (intensity distribution of activity) were determined.

Results

Average acceleration and intensity gradient were negatively associated with mean arterial blood pressure (β = -0.75 mmHg, p = 0.021; β = -10 mmHg, p = 0.006, respectively), and waist circumference was positively associated with IL-6 concentration (β = 0.03%, p = 0.026), with stronger associations observed in older adolescents. Higher physical fitness (MSFT distance) was positively associated with anti-inflammatory IL-15 concentration (β = 0.03%, p = 0.038) and faster response times on the incongruent Stroop task (β = -1.43 ms, p = 0.025), the one-item level of the Sternberg paradigm (β = -0.66 ms, p = 0.026) and the simple (β = 0.43 ms, p = 0.032) and complex (β = -2.43 ms, p = 0.020) levels of the visual search test, but these were not moderated by age group.

Conclusions

The present study highlights the important role of physical activity (both the volume and intensity distribution) and physical fitness for cardio-metabolic health. Furthermore, the present study highlights the importance of physical fitness for a variety of cognitive function domains in adolescents, irrespective of age.
An unusual presentation of scrub typhus in a child: a case report
Authors: Jatsho Jimba
Published: February 2022

Background

Scrub Typhus (ST) is an acute, febrile zoonotic disease caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi which is endemic to the Asia-Pacific region. Infected adults rarely present with sensorineural hearing loss and otalgia. Though few cases of pediatric cases are known to present with otalgia, no pediatric cases of sensorineural deafness complicating ST have been reported to date.

Case presentation

A 5-year-old, previously healthy girl presented with a one-week history of high-grade intermittent fever, Headache and right ear pain with a recent onset of reduced hearing. She had a fever up to 39 °C, cervical lymphadenopathy, bilateral pleural effusion with diffuse infiltrations, and mild hepatosplenomegaly with no evidence of rash. Her initial examination was normal except for mildly enlarged tonsils. Unilateral right ear hearing loss was noted using Weber’s test. Evidence of progressive, mild anemia, and raised inflammatory markers was noted. Diagnosis of scrub typhus was confirmed by positive detection of Orentia tsutsugamushi IgM antibodies on rapid diagnostic test and the presence of chigger mite in the right external auditory canal on repeat examination. She responded dramatically to the empirical treatment of ceftriaxone and doxycycline. On follow-up, she did not have any residual hearing loss and her ear pain had resolved completely.

Conclusion

Acute onset hearing loss or severe otalgia with or without findings should be an important diagnostic clue for suspecting scrub typhus in patients who present with a history of fever especially in endemic areas.
Extended mobility scale (AMEXO) for assessing mobilization and setting goals after gastrointestinal and oncological surgery: a before-after study
Authors: Boerrigter José L. , Geelen Sven J. G. , van Berge Henegouwen Mark I. , Bemelman Willem A. , van Dieren Susan , de Man-van Ginkel Janneke M. , van der Schaaf Marike , Eskes Anne M. , Besselink Marc G.
Published: February 2022

Background

Early structured mobilization has become a key element of Enhanced Recovery After Surgery programs to improve patient outcomes and decrease length of hospital stay. With the intention to assess and improve early mobilization levels, the 8-point ordinal John Hopkins Highest Level of Mobility (JH-HLM) scale was implemented at two gastrointestinal and oncological surgery wards in the Netherlands. After the implementation, however, healthcare professionals perceived a ceiling effect in assessing mobilization after gastrointestinal and oncological surgery. This study aimed to quantify this perceived ceiling effect, and aimed to determine if extending the JH-HLM scale with four additional response categories into the AMsterdam UMC EXtension of the JOhn HOpkins Highest Level of mObility (AMEXO) scale reduced this ceiling effect.

Methods

All patients who underwent gastrointestinal and oncological surgery and had a mobility score on the first postoperative day before (July–December 2018) or after (July–December 2019) extending the JH-HLM into the AMEXO scale were included. The primary outcome was the before-after difference in the percentage of ceiling effects on the first three postoperative days. Furthermore, the before-after changes and distributions in mobility scores were evaluated. Univariable and multivariable logistic regression analysis were used to assess these differences.

Results

Overall, 373 patients were included (JH-HLM n = 135; AMEXO n = 238). On the first postoperative day, 61 (45.2%) patients scored the highest possible mobility score before extending the JH-HLM into the AMEXO as compared to 4 (1.7%) patients after (OR = 0.021, CI = 0.007–0.059, p < 0.001). During the first three postoperative days, 118 (87.4%) patients scored the highest possible mobility score before compared to 40 (16.8%) patients after (OR = 0.028, CI = 0.013–0.060, p < 0.001). A change in mobility was observed in 88 (65.2%) patients before as compared to 225 (94.5%) patients after (OR = 9.101, CI = 4.046–20.476, p < 0.001). Of these 225 patients, the four additional response categories were used in 165 (73.3%) patients.

Conclusions

A substantial ceiling effect was present in assessing early mobilization in patients after gastrointestinal and oncological surgery using the JH-HLM. Extending the JH-HLM into the AMEXO scale decreased the ceiling effect significantly, making the tool more appropriate to assess early mobilization and set daily mobilization goals after gastrointestinal and oncological surgery.