bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Coronary circulatory function with increasing obesity: A complex U‐turn
Authors: Upadhyaya Anand , Bhandiwad Anita , Lang Jordan , Sadhu Justin S. , Barrs Chadwick , Jain Sudhir , Brown David L. , Peterson Linda R. , Dehdashti Farrokh , Gropler Robert J. , Schindler Thomas Hellmuth
Published: February 2022

Aims

The aim of this investigation was to explore and characterize alterations in coronary circulatory function in function of increasing body weight with medically controlled cardiovascular risk factors and, thus, “metabolically” unhealthy obesity.

Materials and Methods

We prospectively enrolled 106 patients with suspected CAD but with normal stress‐rest myocardial perfusion on 13N‐ammonia PET/CT and with medically controlled or no cardiovascular risk factors. 13N‐ammonia PET/CT concurrently determined myocardial blood flow (MBF) during pharmacologically induced hyperaemia and at rest. Based on body mass index (BMI), patients were grouped into normal weight (BMI: 20.0–24.9 kg/m2, n = 22), overweight (BMI: 25.0–29.9 kg/m2, n = 27), obese (BMI: 30.0–39.9 kg/m2, n = 31), and morbidly obese (BMI ≥ 40kg/m2, n = 26).

Results

Resting MBF was comparable among groups (1.09 ± 0.18 vs. 1.00 ± 0.15 vs. 0.96 ± 0.18 vs.. 1.06 ± 0.31 ml/g/min; p = .279 by ANOVA). Compared to normal weight individuals, the hyperaemic MBF progressively decreased in in overweight and obese groups, respectively (2.54 ± 0.48 vs. 2.02 ± 0.27 and 1.75 ± 0.39 ml/g/min; p < .0001), while it increased again in the group of morbidly obese individuals comparable to normal weight (2.44 ± 0.41 vs. 2.54 ± 0.48 ml/g/min, p = .192). The BMI of the study population correlated with the hyperaemic MBF in a quadratic or U‐turn fashion (r = .34, SEE = 0.46; p ≤ .002).

Conclusions

The U‐turn of hyperaemic MBF from obesity to morbid obesity is likely to reflect contrasting effects of abdominal versus subcutaneous adipose tissue on coronary circulatory function indicative of two different disease entities, but needing further investigations.
Technology‐enabled collaborative care for youth with early psychosis: Results of a feasibility study to improve physical health behaviours
Authors: Melamed Osnat , Voineskos Aristotle , Vojtila Lenka , Ashfaq Iqra , Veldhuizen Scott , Dragonetti Rosa , Carriere Rebecca , LaChance Laura , Kohut Sara Ahola , Tulloch Trisha , Argarwal Sri Mahavir , Hahn Margaret , Mulsant Benoit H. , Selby Peter
Published: February 2022

Aim

Psychotic disorders are associated with excess morbidity and premature mortality. Contributing factors include tobacco smoking, low physical activity, and poor nutrition. This study tested a Technology‐Enabled Collaborative Care model to improve health behaviours among youth with early psychosis.

Methods

A feasibility study among youth (ages 16–29) with early psychosis in Ontario, Canada. Participants were randomized to either a health coach supervised by a virtual care team (high intensity, n = 29), or self‐directed learning (low intensity, n = 23) for 12 weeks. The primary outcome was participant engagement, defined as self‐perceived benefit of changing health behaviours. Secondary outcomes were measures of health behaviours and programme‐use metrics.

Results

Engagement was higher for high intensity participants for physical activity (adjusted group difference in change at 24 weeks = 3.4, CI95% = 1.9–4.9, p < .001) and nutrition (adjusted difference = 2.9, CI95% = 1.2–4.6, p = .001). No change was observed in health behaviours. Sixty two percent of participants completed 6 or more of the 12 weekly remote individualized health coaching sessions. Nine (39%) low intensity and 12 (41%) high intensity participants completed the final follow‐up.

Conclusions

Personalized health coaching for youth with psychosis is feasible and may have sustained benefits. However, retention with this population for 12 weeks is challenging.
Harvesting can stabilise population fluctuations and buffer the impacts of extreme climatic events
Authors: Peeters Bart , Grøtan Vidar , Gamelon Marlène , Veiberg Vebjørn , Lee Aline M. , Fryxell John M. , Albon Steve D. , Sæther Bernt‐Erik , Engen Steinar , Loe Leif Egil , Hansen Brage Bremset
Published: February 2022

Harvesting can magnify the destabilising effects of environmental perturbations on population dynamics and, thereby, increase extinction risk. However, population‐dynamic theory predicts that impacts of harvesting depend on the type and strength of density‐dependent regulation. Here, we used logistic population growth models and an empirical reindeer case study to show that low to moderate harvesting can actually buffer populations against environmental perturbations. This occurs because of density‐dependent environmental stochasticity, where negative environmental impacts on vital rates are amplified at high population density due to intra‐specific resource competition. Simulations from our population models show that even low levels of harvesting may prevent overabundance, thereby dampening population fluctuations and reducing the risk of population collapse and quasi‐extinction following environmental perturbations. Thus, depending on the species' life history and the strength of density‐dependent environmental drivers, low to moderate harvesting can improve population resistance to increased climate variability and extreme weather expected under global warming.
Therapeutic potential of adipose tissue‐derivatives in modern dermatology
Authors: Bellei Barbara , Migliano Emilia , Picardo Mauro
Published: February 2022

Stem cell‐mediated therapies in combination with biomaterial and growth factor‐based approaches in regenerative medicine are rapidly evolving with increasing application beyond the dermatologic field. Adipose‐derived stem cells (ADSCs) are the more frequently used adult stem cells due to their abundance and easy access. In the case of volumetric defects, adipose tissue can take the shape of defects, restoring the volume and enhancing the regeneration of receiving tissue. When regenerative purposes prevail on volume restoration, the stromal vascular fraction (SVF) rich in staminal cells, purified mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or their cell‐free derivatives grafting are favoured. The therapeutic efficacy of acellular approaches is explained by the fact that a significant part of the natural propensity of stem cells to repair damaged tissue is ascribable to their secretory activity that combines mitogenic factors, cytokines, chemokines and extracellular matrix components. Therefore, the secretome's ability to modulate multiple targets simultaneously demonstrated preclinical and clinical efficacy in reversing pathological mechanisms of complex conditions such atopic dermatitis (AD), vitiligo, psoriasis, acne and Lichen sclerosus (LS), non‐resolving wounds and alopecia.

This review analysing both in vivo and in vitro models gives an overview of the clinical relevance of adipose tissue‐derivatives such as autologous fat graft, stromal vascular fraction, purified stem cells and secretome for skin disorders application. Finally, we highlighted the major disease‐specific limitations and the future perspective in this field.
T peripheral helper cells in autoimmune diseases*
Authors: Marks Kathryne E , Rao Deepak A
Published: February 2022

Pathologic T cell–B cell interactions underlie many autoimmune diseases. The T cells that help B cells in autoimmune diseases vary in phenotype and include T cells that lack typical features of T follicular helper cells, such as expression of CXCR5 and BCL6. A population of PD‐1hi CXCR5‐ T peripheral helper (Tph) cells has now been recognized in multiple autoantibody‐associated diseases. Tph cells display a distinctive set of features, merging the ability to provide B cell help with the capacity to migrate to inflamed peripheral tissues. Here, we review the scope of immune‐related conditions in which Tph cells have been implicated and provide a perspective on their potential contributions to pathologic B cell activation in autoimmune diseases. We discuss Tph cells as a promising therapeutic strategy in autoimmunity and consider the utility of tracking Tph cells in blood as a biomarker to quantify aberrant T cell–B cell activation in patients with autoimmune diseases.
Why Migration Justice Still Requires Open Borders
Authors: Sager Alex
Published: February 2022

I revisit themes from Against Borders: Why the World Needs Free Movement of People (2020) in dialogue with Gillian Brock's Justice of People on the Move (2020) and Sarah Song's Immigration and Democracy (2019). We share the conviction that current border regimes are deeply unjust but differ in what migration justice requires. Brock and Song continue to give states significant discretion to exclude people from entering and settling in their territories, whereas I contend that migration justice demands open borders. I reject the claim that state self‐determination justifies migration restrictions. Central arguments for open borders highlight the role that restrictive border controls and the state category of ‘immigrant’ play in upholding racialised hierarchies and exploitative economic relations, as well as in inflicting violence against mobile people.
Migration, Open Borders, Human Rights, and Democracy
Authors: Brock Gillian
Published: February 2022

Two important recent books on migration and justice argue for different approaches to how we should view borders. Alex Sager defends open borders, while Sarah Song argues for the rights of democratic communities to find their own balance between open and closed borders. While both authors present significant considerations in defence of their views, in this article I argue that a human‐rights‐oriented account of migration justice captures their strengths well while not sharing the weaknesses I identify with each. In addition, the approach I favour offers some progressive pathways for holding each other to account in reducing migration injustice in our actual world, in ways that are both feasible and normatively compelling.
Supplementation of broiler chicken diets with bovine lactoferrin improves growth performance, histological parameters of jejunum and immune‐related gene expression
Authors: Olyayee Majid , Javanmard Arash , Janmohammadi Hossein , Kianfar Ruhollah , Alijani Sadegh , Mir Ghelenj Seyed Ali
Published: February 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of dietary supplementation of bovine lactoferrin (bLF) on growth performance, carcass traits, histomorphology of jejunum, immune function and hepatic and splenic gene expression of interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) and interleukine‐2 (IL‐2) in broiler chickens. A total of 240 one‐day‐old Ross 308 male broiler chickens were randomly allotted into six dietary treatments with four replicate pens (10 chicks per pen) and fed experimental diet in 3 feeding phases (starter: d 0–10, grower: d 11–24 and finisher: d 25–42). The experimental treatments were (1) corn–soya bean meal‐based basal diet (control), (2–5) basal diet supplemented with 200, 400, 600, 800 mg/kg bLF, respectively, and (6) basal diet supplemented with 200 mg/kg oxytetracycline (OTC). The average body weight gain (ABWG) of broilers fed 800 mg/kg bLF was 8.48% higher than those fed a corn–soybean meal‐based diet during the starter period (d 0–10) (linear effect, p = 0.002; quadratic effect, p = 0.24). Average daily feed intake (ADFI) and the feed conversion ratio (FCR) were not affected (p>0.05) by bLF supplementation. At 42 days of age, the breast meat percentage and carcass yield of broilers fed 800 mg/kg bLF compared with the control group significantly increased by 9.51% and 6.03% respectively (p < 0.05). Compared with the chicks fed the control diet, the chicks fed diets supplemented with bLF had higher villus height, muscle thickness and villus surface area (p > 0.05). Dietary bLF inclusion increased the total immunoglobulin (IgT) titre against sheep red blood cells (SRBCs) antigen (linear effect, p = 0.031; quadratic effect, p = 0.035) and improved the phytohaemagglutinin‐P (PHA‐P)‐skin test of broilers. Compared with the control, bLF enhanced the gene expression of IFN‐γ in spleen (p = 0.048, linear effect, p = 0.009; quadratic effect, p = 0.093) and liver (p = 0.012, linear effect, p = 0.008; quadratic effect, p = 0.01) and IL‐2 expression in spleen (p = 0.021, linear effect, p = 0.026; quadratic effect, p = 0.103). The bLF supplementation had no effect on IL‐2 gene expression in liver (p > 0.05, linear effect, p = 0.213; quadratic effect, p = 0.159). In conclusion, we found that supplementation of broiler diets with 800 mg/kg bLF can improve the growth performance, carcass yield, cell‐mediated and antibody‐mediated immune responses and enhance the IL‐2 and IFN‐γ gene expression of broilers.
T‐Philosophy
Authors: Daly Chris
Published: February 2022

This paper evaluates the case Paul Horwich makes in his book Wittgenstein’s Metaphilosophy against so‐called T‐philosophy—the traditional conception of philosophy as a theoretical enterprise that seeks to analyse concepts, solve problems, and explain phenomena in a unified and systematic way. Different forms of T‐philosophy are identified in the paper, but it is argued that Horwich’s multi‐pronged critique has no force against any of them. The paper also assesses, as a case study, Horwich’s contention that the problem of our knowledge of mathematical objects can be dissolved on the grounds that the problem is based on a misguided analogy with our knowledge of physical objects. The paper shows that Horwich’s contention is mistaken and that the problem can be established without drawing any analogy with our knowledge of physical objects.
Social Sin and the Sinless Savior: Delineating Supra‐Personal Sin in Continuity with Conciliar Christology
Authors: Hill Daniel Lee , Kieser Ty
Published: February 2022

This article addresses the seeming incongruity between supra‐personal accounts of sin and conciliar Christology. Supra‐personal accounts of sin, in their variegated forms, propose that sin is not merely reducible to the human will, but is enmeshed within the societal or social structures that all human beings inhabit. Such accounts become potentially problematic when considered in conjunction with the Christology of the ecumenical councils—especially the affirmation of Christ’s sinlessness. Specifically, if sin is not localized to the individual person and their will, how can we affirm that Christ genuinely participates in a warped society and sinful social structures while remaining sinless? This article articulates the fundamentals of social accounts of sin, defends the requisite sinlessness of Christ from the councils, and establishes guiding principles for properly navigating the relationship between Christology and structural sin. Ultimately it argues that an affirmation of Christ’s sinlessness ought to orient and delineate a Christian understanding of supra‐personal sin.
Azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus. The first 2‐year's Data from the Danish National Surveillance Study, 2018–2020
Authors: Risum Malene , Hare Rasmus Krøger , Gertsen Jan Berg , Kristensen Lise , Rosenvinge Flemming Schønning , Sulim Sofia , Abou‐Chakra Nissrine , Bangsborg Jette , Røder Bent Løwe , Marmolin Ea Sofie , Astvad Karen Marie Thyssen , Pedersen Michael , Dzajic Esad , Andersen Steen Lomborg , Arendrup Maiken Cavling
Published: February 2022

Background

Azole resistance complicates treatment of patients with invasive aspergillosis with an increased mortality. Azole resistance in Aspergillus fumigatus is a growing problem and associated with human and environmental azole use. Denmark has a considerable and highly efficient agricultural sector. Following reports on environmental azole resistance in A. fumigatus from Danish patients, the ministry of health requested a prospective national surveillance of azole‐resistant A. fumigatus and particularly that of environmental origin.

Objectives

To present the data from the first 2 years of the surveillance programme.

Methods

Unique isolates regarded as clinically relevant and any A. fumigatus isolated on a preferred weekday (background samples) were included. EUCAST susceptibility testing was performed and azole‐resistant isolates underwent cyp51A gene sequencing.

Results

The azole resistance prevalence was 6.1% (66/1083) at patient level. The TR34/L98H prevalence was 3.6% (39/1083) and included the variants TR34/L98H, TR343/L98H and TR34/L98H/S297T/F495I. Resistance caused by other Cyp51A variants accounted for 1.3% (14/1083) and included G54R, P216S, F219L, G54W, M220I, M220K, M220R, G432S, G448S and Y121F alterations. Non‐Cyp51A‐mediated resistance accounted for 1.2% (13/1083). Proportionally, TR34/L98H, other Cyp51A variants and non‐Cyp51A‐mediated resistance accounted for 59.1% (39/66), 21.2% (14/66) and 19.7% (13/66), respectively, of all resistance. Azole resistance was detected in all five regions in Denmark, and TR34/L98H specifically, in four of five regions during the surveillance period.

Conclusion

The azole resistance prevalence does not lead to a change in the initial treatment of aspergillosis at this point, but causes concern and leads to therapeutic challenges in the affected patients.
Wavelength‐dependent DNA Photodamage in a 3‐D human Skin Model over the Far‐UVC and Germicidal UVC Wavelength Ranges from 215 to 255 nm
Authors: Welch David , Aquino de Muro Marilena , Buonanno Manuela , Brenner David J.
Published: February 2022

The effectiveness of UVC to reduce airborne‐mediated disease transmission is well established. However, conventional germicidal UVC (~254 nm) cannot be used directly in occupied spaces because of the potential for damage to the skin and eye. A recently studied alternative with the potential to be used directly in occupied spaces is far UVC (200–235 nm, typically 222 nm), as it cannot penetrate to the key living cells in the epidermis. Optimal far‐UVC use is hampered by limited knowledge of the precise wavelength dependence of UVC‐induced DNA damage, and thus we have used a monochromatic UVC exposure system to assess wavelength‐dependent DNA damage in a realistic 3‐D human skin model. We exposed a 3‐D human skin model to mono‐wavelength UVC exposures of 100 mJ/cm2, at UVC wavelengths from 215 to 255 nm (5 nm steps). At each wavelength, we measured yields of DNA‐damaged keratinocytes, and their distribution within the layers of the epidermis. No increase in DNA damage was observed in the epidermis at wavelengths from 215 to 235 nm, but at higher wavelengths (240–255 nm) significant levels of DNA damage was observed. These results support use of far‐UVC radiation to safely reduce the risk of airborne disease transmission in occupied locations.
Evaluation of immune response and haematological parameters in infected male albino rats by giardiasis
Authors: Abo‐Zaid Mabrouk A. , Hamdi Aishah Ali
Published: February 2022

The present work aimed to study the effects ofGiardia lambliainfection on immunological and haematological studies and to evaluate immunoglobulins and some cytokines. Fifty male albino rats were divided into six groups. The control group includes 20 rats and the infected group includes 30 rats. All the estimations were checked all over five checkpoints (CP) (7, 14, 21, 28 and 35 days post‐infection). Serum levels of IgA, IgG, IgM and IgE. Cytokines INF‐γ, TNF‐alpha, IL‐4, IL‐10 and haematological parameters were determined. Cyst and trophozoite were counted. A considerable increase in the level of immunoglobulins and cytokines in all infected groups compared with the control group was documented. Furthermore, a significant decrease in red blood corpuscles, haemoglobin and mean corpuscular haemoglobin concentration levels was observed, whereas substantial increases in mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular haemoglobin and platelets were observed. Moreover, infected rats had a substantial rise in WBCs, lymphocytes and eosinophil counts compared with the control group, whereas neutrophils and monocytes had a significant decrease. The number of trophozoites and cysts was significantly increased in infected groups before diminishing after day 28. The current results showed that Th1 and Th2 immune responses, which are characterized by the production of TNF‐α, IFN‐γ, IL‐4 and IL‐10, are important for protection againstGiardiainfections and also verified the balance between these cytokines and the timing of their production was crucial inG. lambliaimmune response.
Management and prevention of soft tissue complications in implant dentistry
Authors: Thoma Daniel S. , Gil Alfonso , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E.
Published: February 2022

The management and prevention of soft tissue complications is of key importance in modern implant dentistry and influences biologic and esthetic outcomes. The assessment of the soft tissue conditions from a quantitative and qualitative perspective should, therefore, be part of the overall treatment plan. Such an assessment dictates a potential indication as well as an ideal time point for additional soft tissue management. A proper risk assessment and management of the soft tissues at the planned implant site are of key importance prior to any implant‐related surgery. Cases with peri‐implant soft tissue complications generally involve: (a) a lack of attached and keratinized mucosa; (b) insufficient volume; (c) development of mucosal dehiscences; or (d) a combination of (a), (b), and (c). In case of soft tissue deficiencies, these should be addressed as early as possible to increase the predictability of the surgical interventions. This article reviews the main causes for peri‐implant soft tissue complications and presents different therapeutic options for the management of various clinical scenarios.
Surgical therapy of peri‐implantitis
Authors: Schwarz Frank , Jepsen Søren , Obreja Karina , Galarraga‐Vinueza Maria Elisa , Ramanauskaite Ausra
Published: February 2022

Peri‐implantitis is caused by a bacterial challenge; therefore, anti‐infective treatment strategies should be employed to manage the disease. As nonsurgical approaches demonstrate limited efficacy in most cases of peri‐implantitis, surgical interventions are often required. Treatment outcomes improve following access flap surgery, with or without adjunctive resective and/or augmentation measures. Whereas nonaugmentative therapies (ie, access flap surgery and resective techniques) primarily aim to resolve inflammation and arrest further disease progression, augmentation approaches also seek to regenerate the bony defect and achieve reosseointegration. Currently, limited evidence supports the superiority of augmentative surgical techniques for peri‐implantitis treatment over nonaugmentation methods, and human histologic evidence for reosseointegration is sparse. For patients involved in regular postoperative maintenance programs, success of peri‐implantitis surgical treatment based on various definitions of success was obtained in over half of the cases after 5‐7 years. Despite surgical treatment, cases of further disease progression that required retreatment or led to implant loss were reported.
The ethical dilemmas of risky decisions
Authors: Ale Ben J.M. , Slater David H. , Hartford Des N.D.
Published: February 2022

Even in a pandemic there seem to be inherent conflicts of interest between the individual and societal consequences of remedial actions and strategies. Actions taken in the sole interests of patients, as required by the Hippocratic oath, can have broadly inconvenient economic implications for the State. (“Average” benefits for a population can impose individual inconveniences for the vulnerable.). Understandably these decisions are not normally made explicitly and transparently by governments. This leads to seemingly illogical and inhumane strategies which are not understood and hence mistrusted and often ignored by the public. Vaccination sentiments on social media are often an unwanted symptom of this dilemma. This article outlines and discusses a number of examples of such situations with a focus on ethical aspects. It concludes that each case must be considered individually as to the issues that need to be weighed in these difficult decisions; and that there are no clear and universally acceptable ethical solutions. What can be learned from the COVID‐19 crisis is that short term utilitarianism has consequences that in the eyes of the population are unacceptable. This lesson seems equally valid for cost benefit evaluations regarding other risks, such as from hazardous industries, flood defenses, and air transport. Decisionmakers and politicians can learn that persuasion only goes so far. In the end the people appear to prioritize in terms of deontology.
Hybrid event bed character and distribution in the context of ancient deep‐lacustrine fan models
Authors: Dodd Thomas J. H. , McCarthy Dave J. , Amy Lawrence , Plenderleith Gayle E. , Clarke Stuart M.
Published: February 2022

Hybrid event beds are texturally and compositionally‐diverse deposits preserved within deepwater settings. They are deposited by flows exhibiting ‘mixed behaviour’, forming complex successions of sandstone and mudstone, which are often challenging to predict. Hybrid event beds are documented in deep‐marine settings, where they have been thoroughly characterized, and are well‐known as effective fluid transmissibility barriers and baffles in reservoirs. By comparison, there are far‐fewer studies of hybrid event beds from deep‐lacustrine settings, where their character and distribution remains relatively under‐explored. In order to provide insights into these deposits, this study presents the detailed analysis of three‐dimensional seismic data, wireline logs and core from a series of ancient deep‐lacustrine fan systems in the North Falkland Basin. Results confirm that deep‐lacustrine hybrid event beds comprise the same idealized sequence of the ‘H1–H5’ divisions. However, in this study H3 ‘debrite’ units can be sub‐divided into ‘H3a–H3c’, based on: sharp or erosional intra‐H3 contacts, bulk lithology, mud‐content and discrete sedimentary textures. This study interprets the H3a–H3c sub‐units as the products of multiple flow components formed through significant rearward longitudinal flow transformation processes, during the emplacement of a single hybrid event bed. Hybrid event beds are observed within lobe fringes, where flow types, energies and transport mechanisms diversify as a result of flow transformation. The temporal context of hybrid event bed occurrences is considered in relation to stages of fan evolution, including: the Initiation; Growth (I); Growth (II); By‐pass; Abandonment; and Termination phases. Hybrid event beds are mainly found in either the initiation phase where flow interaction and erosion of initial substrates promoted mixed flow behaviour, or in the abandonment phase as facies belts retreated landward. The results of this study have important implications in terms of flow processes of hybrid event bed emplacement, in particular sub‐division of the H3 unit, as well as the prediction of hybrid event bed occurrence and character within ancient deep‐lacustrine fan settings, in general.
The novel HLA‐C*07:1000 allele was likely generated by an intragenic recombination event
Authors: Balas Antonio , Moreno‐Hidalgo Miguel‐Ángel , Alenda Raquel , García‐Sánchez Félix , Vicario José L.
Published: February 2022

Characterization of the novel HLA‐C allele, HLA‐C*07:1000.
La medición a valor razonable en activos fijos. Caso empresas de servicios públicos domiciliarios cotizadas en Colombia
Authors: Rincón Soto Carlos Augusto , Gómez Villegas Mauricio
Published: February 2022

En este trabajo se analizan las elecciones e implicaciones de la política contable para la medición de los activos fijos de las empresas de servicios públicos domiciliarios (ESPD) cotizadas en la Bolsa de Valores de Colombia en sus estados financieros, por la adopción por primera vez de las Normas Internacionales de Información Financiera (NIIF), así como en la medición posterior. Se adopta una perspectiva conceptual sobre el papel dual de la contabilidad en la toma decisiones y el control. Por medio de una metodología exploratoria, analítica y descriptiva se analiza la información financiera y las políticas contables de las 18 ESPD cotizadas en Colombia, para los años 2013 a 2015. Los resultados muestran que en el momento de adopción por primera vez, las ESPD utilizaron el Valor Razonable para varias clases de activos fijos, con implicaciones importantes en su situación financiera; no obstante, en la medición posterior prevalece la medición al costo. El estudio de las políticas contables que implementan estas empresas es relevante para inversores, reguladores, supervisores, gestores, académicos y practicantes.
iQbD: A Technological Readiness Level-Indexed Quality-by-Design Paradigm for Medical Device Engineering
Authors: Bastogne Thierry
Published: February 2022

Risk assessment is a critical step in the roadmap of medical device development (MDD). Failure modes, effects and criticality analysis is a common approach based on declarative prior information that proved beneficial in the risk assessment of well-established processes. But at early steps of development when innovative materials or technologies are embedded, the lack of experience on those innovations introduces too much subjectivity in failure modes, effects, and criticality analysis (FMECA) for a robust risk assessment. Since mid-2000, the quality-by-design (QbD) guideline has been proposed within the pharmaceutical industry as a pro-active engineering approach to drug development. This paradigm enables a data-driven risk assessment throughout the development workflow, which completes the risk assessment provided by FMECA. Nevertheless, its implementation guide is unclear and not flexible enough to be efficiently applied to the development of medical devices. To address this issue, a new quality by design (QbD) paradigm indexed on the technological readiness level of the innovative product is proposed. It covers the development of medical devices throughout the whole preclinical phase and is composed of at least nine learning cycles. The first part of this medical device QbD layout, composed of three consecutive risk assessment cycles, is evaluated through a real study case with the objective to demonstrate the proof of concept of a photobleaching controller in photodynamic therapy. Beyond this experimental result, this application has confirmed practical ability of the indexed quality by design (iQbD) approach to complete FMECA and to provide an alternative solution to risk assessment when prior knowledge on the technological innovation is not available.
REVIEWS OF ACOUSTICAL PATENTS
Authors: Fulop Sean A.
Published: February 2022

The purpose of these acoustical patent reviews is to provide enough information for a Journal reader to decide whether to seek more information from the patent itself. Any opinions expressed here are those of the reviewers as individuals and are not legal opinions. Patents are available via the internet at the USPTO website.
Integration of Report-Based Methods to Enhance the Interpretation of Monitor-Based Research: Results From the Free-Living Activity Study for Health Project
Authors: Lamoureux Nicholas R. , Hibbing Paul R. , Matthews Charles , Welk Gregory J.
Published: February 2022

Accelerometry-based monitors are commonly utilized to evaluate physical activity behavior, but the lack of contextual information limits the interpretability and value of the data. Integration of report-based with monitor-based data allows the complementary strengths of the two approaches to be used to triangulate information and to create a more complete picture of free-living physical behavior. This investigation utilizes data collected from the Free-Living Activity Study for Health to test the feasibility of annotating monitor data with contextual information from the Activities Completed Over Time in 24-hr (ACT24) previous-day recall. The evaluation includes data from 134 adults who completed the 24-hr free-living monitoring protocol and retrospective 24-hr recall. Analyses focused on the relative agreement of energy expenditure estimates between ACT24 and two monitor-based methods (ActiGraph and SenseWear Armband). Daily energy expenditure estimates from ACT24 were equivalent to the reference device-based estimate. Minute-level agreement of energy expenditure between ACT24 and device-based methods was moderate and was similar to the agreement between two different monitor-based methods. This minute-level agreement between ACT24 and device-based methods demonstrates the feasibility and utility of integrating self-report with accelerometer data to provide richer context on the monitored behaviors. This type of integration offers promise for advancing the assessment of physical behavior by aiding in data interpretation and providing opportunities to improve physical activity assessment methods under free-living conditions.
The Effects of Virtual Reality Nonphysical Mental Training on Balance Skills and Functional Near-Infrared Spectroscopy Activity in Healthy Adults
Authors: Köyağasıoğlu Ogün , Özgürbüz Cengizhan , Bediz Cem Şeref , Güdücü Çağdaş , Aydınoğlu Ramazan , Akşit Tolga
Published: February 2022

Context: Athletic skills such as balance are considered physical skills. However, these skills may not just improve by physical training, but also by mental training. The purpose of this study was to investigate the effects of mental training programs on balance skills and hemodynamic responses of the prefrontal cortex. Design: Randomized controlled trial. Methods: Fifty-seven healthy adults (28 females, 29 males), aged between 18–25 years, participated in this study. Participants were randomly assigned to 3 groups: virtual reality mental training (VRMT) group, conventional mental training (CMT) group, and control group. The training program included action observation and motor imagery practices with balance exercise videos. The VRMT group trained with a VR head-mounted display, while the CMT group trained with a non-immersive computer screen, for 30 minutes, 3 days per week for 4 weeks. At baseline and after 4 weeks of training, balance was investigated with stabilometry and Star Excursion Balance Test (SEBT). Balance tests were performed with simultaneous functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) imaging to measure prefrontal cortex oxygenation. Results: For the stabilometry test, at least 1 variable improved significantly in both VRMT and CMT groups but not in the control group. For SEBT, composite reach distance significantly increased in both VRMT and CMT groups but significantly decreased in the control group. For separate directional scores, reach distance was significantly increased in both mental training groups for nondominant leg posterolateral and posteromedial directions, and dominant leg posterolateral direction, while nondominant posteromedial score was significantly increased only in the VRMT group. Between-group comparisons showed that dominant leg posteromedial and posterolateral score improvements were significantly higher than control group for both mental training groups, while nondominant leg improvements were significantly higher than control group only for the VRMT group. The fNIRS oxyhemoglobin levels were not significantly changed during stabilometry tests. However, oxyhemoglobin levels significantly reduced only in the control group during SEBT. Conclusions: Our findings suggest that both mental training interventions can significantly improve balance test results. Additionally, VRMT may have some advantages over CMT. These findings are promising for the use of mental training in prevention and rehabilitation for special populations such as athletes and older adults.
Phosphorylation-dependent positive feedback on the oxytocin receptor through the kinase PKD1 contributes to long-term social memory
Authors: Wang Fei , Yin Xiang-Sha , Lu Jie , Cen Cheng , Wang Yun
Published: February 2022

Social memory enables one to recognize and distinguish specific individuals. It is fundamental to social behaviors that can be mediated by the oxytocin receptor (OXTR), such as forming relationships. We investigated the molecular regulation and function of OXTR in animal behavior involving social memory. We found that Ser
261
in OXTR was phosphorylated by protein kinase D1 (PKD1). Neuronal Ca
2+
signaling and behavior analyses revealed that rats expressing a mutated form of OXTR that cannot be phosphorylated at this residue (OXTR S261A) in the medial amygdala (MeA) exhibited impaired long-term social memory (LTSM). Blocking the phosphorylation of wild-type OXTR in the MeA using an interfering peptide in rats or through conditional knockout of
Pkd1
in mice reduced social memory retention, whereas expression of a phosphomimetic mutant of OXTR rescued it. In HEK293A cells, the PKD1-mediated phosphorylation of OXTR promoted its binding to G
q
protein and, in turn, OXTR-mediated phosphorylation of PKD1, indicating a positive feedback loop. In addition, OXTR with a single-nucleotide polymorphism found in humans (rs200362197), which has a mutation in the conserved recognition region in the PKD1 phosphorylation site, showed impaired activation and signaling in vitro and in HEK293A cells similar to that of the S216A mutant. Our findings describe a phosphoregulatory loop for OXTR and its critical role in social behavior that might be further explored in associated disorders.
High-Definition DIC Imaging Uncovers Transient Stages of Pathogen Infection Cycles on the Surface of Human Adult Stem Cell-Derived Intestinal Epithelium
Authors: van Rijn Jorik M. , Eriksson Jens , Grüttner Jana , Sundbom Magnus , Webb Dominic-Luc , Hellström Per M. , Svärd Staffan G. , Sellin Mikael E.
Published: February 2022

Knowledge of dynamic niche-specific interactions between single microbes and host cells is essential to understand infectious disease progression. However, advances in this field have been hampered by the inherent conflict between the technical requirements for high-resolution live-cell imaging on the one hand and conditions that best mimic physiological infection niche parameters on the other.
Supplemental Material: Timing and structural evolution of the Sevier thrust belt, western Wyoming
Authors: Malone David , al. et
Published: February 2022

Detrital zircon age data
Time series analysis of the incidence of acute upper respiratory tract infections, COVID-19 and the use of antibiotics in Finland during the COVID-19 epidemic: a cohort study of 833 444 patients
Authors: Niemenoja Oskar , Taalas Ara , Taimela Simo , Bono Petri , Huovinen Pentti , Riihijärvi Sari
Published: February 2022

Objective

To evaluate the trajectories of acute upper respiratory tract infections (URTIs), COVID-19, and the use of antibiotics in Finland during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Design

Population-based cohort study.

Setting

Electronic medical records from a nationwide healthcare chain in Finland.

Participants

833 444 patients from a cohort of 1 970 013 Finns who had used medical services between 2017 and 2020.

Main outcome measures

Number of weekly patients of acute URTIs, COVID-19, and the prescribed number of antibiotics in Finland between 6 January 2020 and 21 June 2020. We estimated the respective expected numbers from 1 March 2020 onward using autoregressive integrated moving average model from 1 January 2017 to 1 March 2020. We assessed the public interest in COVID-19 by collecting Google search trend frequencies.

Results

There was a rapid increase in COVID-related internet searches between weeks 10 and 12. At the same time, there was a 106% increase in diagnoses of acute URTIs, from 410 per 100 000 inhabitants to 845 per 100 000. The first COVID-19 cases were diagnosed on week 11. Prescriptions for URTI-related antibiotics declined by 71% (403 per 100 000 to 117 per 100 000) between weeks 11 and 15 while no relevant change took place in prescriptions of antibiotics for urinary tract infections.

Conclusions

At the beginning of the epidemic, many people contacted healthcare professionals with relatively mild symptoms, as indicated by the reduced rate of URTI-antibiotics prescriptions. Our findings indicate that health service providers should be prepared for rapid variations in service demand. Securing access of true COVID-19 patients to proper diagnostics, care and isolation measures may help in preventing the spread of the disease.
Potential impact of encounter patient decision aids on the patient–clinician dialogue: a qualitative study on Dutch and American medical specialists’ experiences
Authors: Rake Ester A. , Dreesens Dunja , Venhorst Kristie , Meinders Marjan J. , Geltink Tessa , Wolswinkel Jenny T. , Dannenberg Michelle , Kremer Jan A.M. , Elwyn Glyn , Aarts Johanna W. M.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To examine the experiences among Dutch and American clinicians on the impact of using encounter patient decision aids (ePDAs) on their clinical practice, and subsequently to formulate recommendations for sustained ePDA use in clinical practice.

Design

Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with clinicians who used 11 different ePDAs (applicable to their specialty) for 3 months after a short training. The verbatim transcribed interviews were coded with thematic analysis by six researchers via ATLAS.ti.

Setting

Nine hospitals in the Netherlands and two hospitals in the USA.

Participants

Twenty-five clinicians were interviewed: 16 Dutch medical specialists from four different disciplines (gynaecologists, ear-nose-throat specialists, neurologists and orthopaedic surgeon), 5 American gynaecologists and 4 American gynaecology medical trainees.

Results

The interviews showed that the ePDA potentially impacted the patient–clinician dialogue in several ways. We identified six themes that illustrate this: that is, (1) communication style, for example, structuring the conversation; (2) the patient’s role, for example, encouraging patients to ask more questions; (3) the clinician’s role, for example, prompting clinicians to discuss more information; (4) workflow, for example, familiarity with the ePDA’s content helped to integrate it into practice; (5) shared decision-making (SDM), for example, mixed experiences whether the ePDA contributed to SDM; and (6) content of the ePDA. Recommendations to possibly improve ePDA use based on the clinician’s experiences: (1) add pictorial health information to the ePDA instead of text only and (2) instruct clinicians how to use the ePDA in a flexible (depending on their discipline and setting) and personalised way adapting the ePDA to the patients’ needs (e.g., mark off irrelevant options).

Conclusions

ePDAs contributed to the patient–clinician dialogue in several ways according to medical specialists. A flexible and personalised approach appeared appropriate to integrate the use of ePDAs into the clinician’s workflow, and customise their use to individual patients’ needs.
Loop and thiazide diuretic use and risk of chronic kidney disease progression: a multicentre observational cohort study
Authors: Fitzpatrick Jesse K , Yang Jingrong , Ambrosy Andrew P , Cabrera Claudia , Stefansson Bergur V , Greasley Peter J , Patel Jignesh , Tan Thida C , Go Alan S
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To evaluate the association between diuretic use by class with chronic kidney disease (CKD) progression and onset of end-stage renal disease (ESRD).

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Large integrated healthcare delivery system in Northern California.

Participants

Adults with an estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) 15–59 min/1.73 m2 by the CKD-Epidemiology Collaboration equation with no prior diuretic use.

Main outcome measures

ESRD and a renal composite outcome including eGFR <15 mL/min/1.73 m2, 50% reduction in eGFR and/or ESRD.

Results

Among 47 666 eligible adults with eGFR 15–59 min/1.73 m2 and no previous receipt of loop or thiazide diuretics, mean age was 71 years, 49% were women and 26% were persons of colour. Overall, the rate (per 100 person-years) of the renal composite outcome was 1.35 (95% CI: 1.30 to 1.41) and 0.42 (95% CI: 0.39 to 0.45) for ESRD. Crude rates (per 100 person-years) of the composite renal outcome were higher in patients who initiated loop diuretics (12.85 (95% CI: 11.81 to 13.98) vs 1.06 (95% CI: 1.02 to 1.12)) and thiazide diuretics (2.68 (95% CI: 2.33 to 3.08) vs 1.29 (95% CI: 1.24 to 1.35)) compared with those who did not. Crude rates (per 100-person years) of ESRD where higher in patients who initiated loop diuretics (4.92 (95% CI: 4.34 to 5.59) vs 0.30 (95% CI: 0.28 to 0.33)), but not in those who initiated thiazide diuretics (0.30 (95% CI: 0.20 to 0.46) vs 0.43 (95% CI: 0.40 to 0.46)). However, neither initiation of diuretics or type of diuretic were significantly associated with CKD progression or ESRD after accounting for receipt of other medications and time-dependent confounders using causal inference methods.

Conclusions

The use of thiazide and loop diuretics was not independently associated with an increased risk of CKD progression and/or ESRD in adults with stage 3/4 CKD.
Examining positive views from students, trainees and GPs about general practice: a generational problem? A set of qualitative studies in France
Authors: Le Floc'h Bernard , Bastiaens Hilde , Le Reste Jean-Yves , Nabbe Patrice , Montier Tristan , Peremans Lieve
Published: February 2022

Objective

This study aimed to explore the positive factors related to working in general practice in France, from a student studying medicine, trainee general practitioner (GP) and GP point of view.

Setting

Primary care, France.

Design

Nine different qualitative studies involving medical students, trainees and GPs.

Participants

Sixty-seven medical students, 22 trainees in general practice and 71 GPs.

Results

The final codebook contained 66 interpretative codes and 8 positive themes. The themes were general practice as a commitment, doctor–patient care and relationships, skills and competencies in general practice, practice organisation and work–life balance, relationship with the professional community, GPs and university, GPs in the social community and private life, relatives and family. Positive feelings about being a GP are similar throughout the different age groups, from young students to older professionals.

Discussion and conclusion

This study provided a comprehensive picture of the satisfied GP across different ages. This picture describes GPs as patient-centred professionals who need to have the freedom to choose an efficient working environment, organise their practice, have opportunities for professional development and acquire specific competencies. Both younger and older GPs believe in the future of general practice.