bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Systematic Review of Community Engagement Outcomes Research in School‐Based Health Interventions
Authors: McMullen Jaimie M. , George Melissa , Ingman Benjamin C. , Pulling Kuhn Ann , Graham Dan J , Carson Russell L.
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Involving communities in school health has been purported as a practice integral to supporting a Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) approach. Although community collaboration is often included in school‐based health initiatives, there is little research considering methods for increasing community engagement. The purpose of this study was to identify effective school‐based health interventions documenting changes in community engagement.

METHODS

Academic experts and school stakeholders guided procedures for a systematic review of studies published from 1987–2017 and gray literature (ie, best practice documents; policy documents, etc.) on comprehensive school health interventions including community engagement as a targeted outcome.

RESULTS

The search identified 9 studies addressing community as an outcome of school‐based health interventions; types of partnership mechanisms and partners' roles were classified.

CONCLUSIONS

Although involving communities is a WSCC component and commonly recommended as a strategy fundamental to school health, there is little empirical research examining effective strategies for engaging communities and engagement is often not measured as part of intervention studies. Further measurement and research in engaging communities in school health is warranted.
Unusual Suspects: The People Inside and Outside of School Who Matter in Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child Efforts
Authors: Pittman Karen , Moroney Deborah A. , Irby Merita , Young Jill
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Individuals learn and develop across their lifespan in response to the people with whom they interact in settings, communities, cultures, and experiences. Collaborative research and policy efforts underscore the critical and reparative role of identity‐safe, culturally driven, and relationship‐rich environments—in classrooms, schools, and communities—for the healthy social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development of all learners. These themes align closely with the Whole School, Whole Community, Whole Child (WSCC) model.

METHODS

Collaborative research and policy efforts, combined with the WSCC model make a strong case to elevate the unusual suspects, the settings and people outside of instructional classrooms who are key actors in creating the conditions and relationships that promote student health and well‐being.

RESULTS

We describe promising cases of efforts aimed at bolstering adult capacity to foster student health and well‐being. We also discuss how these types of systemic efforts can move beyond system and program level actors to acknowledge the power of individual‐level implementation.

CONCLUSIONS

It is time to recognize the systemic efforts, programmatic opportunities, and individual roles adults have in implementing an ideal WSCC model that is aligned with the collaborative research and policy efforts.
Buffering Effects of Racial Discrimination on School Engagement: The Role of Culturally Responsive Teachers and Caring School Police
Authors: Bottiani Jessika H. , McDaniel Heather L. , Henderson Lora , Castillo Jasmin E. , Bradshaw Catherine P.
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Urban black adolescents' wellbeing in the early high school years can be negatively impacted by exposure to racial discrimination. These impacts may be buffered by supportive relationships with adults at school. We considered both the protective and promotive effects of culturally responsive teachers and caring school police on school engagement for students exposed to racial discrimination across settings.

METHOD

This study leveraged baseline student report from a sample of urban, predominantly black high school students with elevated teacher‐rated levels of aggressive behavior (N = 397 9th graders; 91.2% black; 50.4% male; J = 10 schools). Using a path model with full‐information maximum likelihood estimation, we examined the associations of racial discrimination, teacher cultural responsiveness, and school police caring in relation to school engagement and school disconnection, adjusting for covariates, including family racial socialization.

RESULTS

Frequency of racial discrimination was significantly associated with lower school engagement and greater school disconnection. Teacher cultural responsiveness was significantly, favorably associated with all outcomes. Police caring had no significant direct associations; however, there were moderation effects. When police caring was below average, increased racial discrimination was associated with significantly poorer attitudes toward school.

CONCLUSIONS

Findings suggested that students' perceptions of school police caring may buffer links between racial discrimination experiences and school disconnection. Moreover, students who perceive that their teachers are culturally responsive may feel more engaged at school. Interventions to promote teachers' and school police officers' cultural responsiveness and caring may improve engagement among at‐risk urban youth who experience racial discrimination.
Youth Assets and Associations With Adolescent Risk Taking
Authors: Messer Lynne C. , Halladay Corrie , Hofert Gina , Sheppard Barbara K.
Published: November 2020

BACKGROUND

Positive youth development emphasizes that adaptive features of adolescence may contribute to teenage pregnancy prevention.

METHODS

Using data from approximately 1300 seventh‐ninth graders, we describe positive youth development assets (external and internal) and their association with sexual risk taking. School‐, sex‐, and race/ethnicity‐stratified logistic or linear models assessed associations between developmental assets and 6 outcomes (continuous attitudes about teenage sex and marriage, abstinence intentions, and nonsexual risk‐taking behavior; dichotomous high risk‐dating behavior, friends' sexual activity, and prior sexual activity).

RESULTS

Associations between developmental assets and youth sexual behavior differed by school, sex, and race/ethnicity. White female respondents showed the most consistent associations between higher amounts of each of the positive youth development assets and attitudes and behaviors conducive to delaying sexual activity while black youth showed the fewest associations.

CONCLUSION

These results contribute to the positive youth development literature by identifying that relationships between assets and adolescent risk differs by race and sex.
Negotiating professional authority and power in tourist–guide communication in guided village tour
Authors: Sharma Bal Krishna
Published: November 2020

The article examines the linguistic, material, and multimodal aspects of professional communication in guided tours in the Himalayas in Nepal. Using an ethnography‐informed interactional sociolinguistics, the study analyses the key instances of miscommunication between an American tourist and an ethnic Tamang guide to understand how various identities are invoked by the participants. As the article considers the complexity of working for tourists in the second language in which a worker's competence is questioned, it also recognizes the importance of a range of semiotic resources that tour guides deploy to negotiate professional authority with tourists. Overall, the findings show how individuals manage interpersonal relations and expertise in transnational workplaces to contest and reconstruct dominant social positions and achieve their interactional goals.
Transitioning from paediatric to adult services with cystic fibrosis or bronchiectasis: What is the impact on engagement and health outcomes?
Authors: Moss Rochelle , Farrant Bridget , Byrnes Catherine A
Published: November 2020

Aim

To determine whether the transfer of young people with cystic fibrosis (CF) or bronchiectasis from paediatric to adult services is associated with changes in service engagement and/or health outcomes.

Methods

Young people aged ≥15 years of age with CF or bronchiectasis who transferred from the Auckland‐based paediatric service (Starship Children's Hospital) to one of three Auckland‐based District Health Boards between 2005 and 2012 were identified and included if they had 3 years care both pre‐transfer and post‐transfer care. Transfer preparation, service engagement (clinics scheduled, clinics attended) and health outcomes (lung function, hospitalisations) were collected per annum.

Results

Fifty‐seven young people transferred in this period with 46 meeting inclusion criteria (CF n = 20, bronchiectasis n = 26). The CF group had better transfer documentation, were transferred at an older age (11 months older P < 0.0001 95%CI: 6.7 months, 14.7 months), were 20 times more likely to attend clinics (P < 0.0001, 95%CI: 7.8, 66.1) and had 3–4 more clinics scheduled pre‐transfer (P < 0.0001, 95%CI: 3.4, 4.9) and post‐transfer (P < 0.0001, 95%CI: 2.4, 3.8) despite having less severe respiratory disease as measured by FEV1 for each year (P < 0.01, 95%CI: 0.34, 1.22).

Conclusion

The transfer of young people with CF to adult services did not affect health engagement or outcomes, in contrast to those with bronchiectasis. Use of a formalised transfer process, more clinic appointments offered and greater resources for CF may be responsible for this difference. Comprehensive transition with purposeful, planned movement and developmentally appropriate care is a key goal.
A transient early HBV‐DNA increase during PEG‐IFNα therapy of hepatitis D indicates loss of infected cells and is associated with HDV‐RNA and HBsAg reduction
Authors: Anastasiou Olympia E. , Yurdaydin Cihan , Maasoumy Benjamin , Hardtke Svenja , Caruntu Florin Alexandru , Curescu Manuela G. , Yalcin Kendal , Akarca Ulus S. , Gürel Selim , Zeuzem Stefan , Erhardt Andreas , Lüth Stefan , Papatheodoridis George V. , Radu Monica , Liebig Stephanie , Bantel Heike , Bremer Birgit , Manns Michael P. , Cornberg Markus , Wedemeyer Heiner
Published: November 2020

HBV‐DNA levels are low or even undetectable in the majority HDV‐infected patients. The impact of PEG‐IFNα on HBV‐DNA kinetics in HDV‐infected patients has not been studied in detail. We analysed data of a prospective treatment trial where 120 HDV‐RNA–positive patients were randomized to receive PEG‐IFNα‐2a plus tenofovir‐disoproxil‐fumarate (PEG‐IFNα/TDF, n = 59) or placebo (PEG‐IFNα/PBO; n = 61) for 96 weeks. At week 96, HBV‐DNA was still quantifiable in 71% of PEG‐IFNα/PBO‐treated patients but also in 76% of PEG‐IFNα/TDF‐treated patients, despite low HBV‐DNA baseline values. Surprisingly, a transient HBV‐DNA increase between weeks 12 and 36 was observed in 12 in PEG‐IFNα/TDF‐treated and 12 PEG‐IFNα/PBO‐treated patients. This increase was positively associated with HBsAg loss [(P = 0.049, odds ratio (OR) 5.1] and HDV‐RNA suppression (P = 0.007, OR 4.1) at week 96. Biochemical markers of cell death (M30 and ALT) were higher during the HBV‐DNA peak but no distinct systemic immune pattern could be observed by screening 91 soluble inflammatory markers. In conclusion, an early increase in HBV‐DNA during PEG‐IFNα‐2a therapy occurred in more than 20% of patients, even in TDF‐treated patients. This transient HBV‐DNA rise may indicate PEG‐IFNα–induced cell death and lead to long‐term HDV‐RNA suppression and HBsAg loss.
Risk factors for candidaemia: A prospective multi‐centre case‐control study
Authors: Keighley Caitlin Livia , Pope Alun , Marriott Deborah J. E. , Chapman Belinda , Bak Narin , Daveson Kathryn , Hajkowicz Krispin , Halliday Catriona , Kennedy Karina , Kidd Sarah , Sorrell Tania C. , Underwood Neil , van Hal Sebastiaan , Slavin Monica A. , Chen Sharon C‐A
Published: November 2020

Objectives

Candidaemia carries a mortality of up to 40% and may be related to increasing complexity of medical care. Here, we determined risk factors for the development of candidaemia.

Methods

We conducted a prospective, multi‐centre, case‐control study over 12 months. Cases were aged ≥18 years with at least one blood culture positive for Candida spp. Each case was matched with two controls, by age within 10 years, admission within 6 months, admitting unit, and admission duration at least as long as the time between admission and onset of candidaemia.

Results

A total of 118 incident cases and 236 matched controls were compared. By multivariate analysis, risk factors for candidaemia included neutropenia, solid organ transplant, significant liver, respiratory or cardiovascular disease, recent gastrointestinal, biliary or urological surgery, central venous access device, intravenous drug use, urinary catheter and carbapenem receipt.

Conclusions

Risk factors for candidaemia derive from the infection source, carbapenem use, host immune function and organ‐based co‐morbidities. Preventive strategies should target iatrogenic disruption of mucocutaneous barriers and intravenous drug use.
Chronic kidney disease is a very significant comorbidity for high risk of death in patients with COVID‐19 in Mexico
Authors: Parra‐Bracamonte Gaspar Manuel , Parra‐Bracamonte Francisco E. , Lopez‐Villalobos Nicolas , Lara‐Rivera Ana Laura
Published: November 2020

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a recognized public health problem and key determinant of poor health outcomes. In Mexico, this condition has been associated with high and significant risk of death in COVID‐19 patients; however, not enough attention has been given to the vulnerable population as the increasing numbers and fatality rates suggest. This study evaluated the effect of interaction between CKD condition and other risk factors (sex, diabetes, hypertension and obesity) on the survival rate of positive patients for COVID‐19 in Mexico. The results from this study support that CKD patients is a population at high risk for mortality for COVID‐19 and that COVID‐19 positive inpatients with CKD and diabetes are highly vulnerable to death.
Diagnostic and clinical utility of the wireless motility capsule in children: A study in patients with functional gastrointestinal disorders
Authors: Rodriguez Leonel , Heinz Nicole , Colliard Kitzia , Amicangelo Maureen , Nurko Samuel
Published: November 2020

Background

The wireless motility capsule (WMC) evaluates gastrointestinal motility and transit simultaneously. We evaluated the utility of the WMC in children with functional gastrointestinal symptoms.

Methods

Study in children comparing WMC transit and motility parameters between those with upper (UGI) or lower (LGI) gastrointestinal symptoms, nuclear medicine gastric emptying time (NMGET) and/or a colonic radiopaque marker (CROM) study.

Key Results

We prospectively recruited 57 children (median age 16.45y, range 8.78‐17.8y, 44 Female) and 50 completed the study (24 UGI/26 LGI). We found no association between WMC study interpretation, motility and transit parameters and symptoms. WMC and NMGET interpretation agreement observed in 24/34 (70%) (κ = 0.351, p = 0.026) and with CROM in 17/21 (81%) patients (κ = 0.576, p = 0.007). WMC detected abnormal gastric transit in 41% vs. 24% with NMGET (p = 0.04) and abnormal colon transit in 62% vs. 71% of patients by CROM (p = 0.01). We found significant correlation (r = 0.574, p = 0.01) and no difference in median colon transit (p = 0.421) by WMC and CROM. A single WMC motility parameter, mean peak amplitude, was associated with NMGET (p = 0.04), none with CROM. Capsule retention >5 days (n = 9, all passed <2 weeks) was associated with prolonged colon transit, not with symptoms, age and gender.

Conclusions

WMC is well tolerated in children as young as 8 years old. We found no association between WMC and symptoms, fair agreement with NMGET and strong agreement with CROM. WMC increases the yield of finding gastrointestinal transit abnormalities. Capsule retention in children is associated to prolonged colon transit. Larger studies are needed to further validate these findings.
Making meaning of parenting from the perspective of alienated parents
Authors: Scharp Kristina M. , Hansen Russell , Kubler Kyle F. , Wang Tiffany R.
Published: November 2020

More than 13% of parents identify as being alienated by at least one of their children. Parental alienation often occurs after divorce when one parent (un)intentionally persuades his or her children to distance themselves from or reject the other parent. This study, couched in relational dialectics theory, explores the meaning of parenting from the perspective of 40 alienated parents. This analysis yielded two competing discourses: the culturally dominant discourse of parental norms (DPN) and the culturally marginalized discourse of parental victimization (DPV). Throughout the narrative interviews, the DPV resisted the DPN in four ways (diachronic separation, entertaining, countering, and negating). This study's findings provide insights into the perspective of the alienated parents, advance what we know about family distancing, and provide practical implications.
Acquired tick resistance: The trail is hot
Authors: Narasimhan Sukanya , Kurokawa Cheyne , DeBlasio Melody , Matias Jaqueline , Sajid Andaleeb , Pal Utpal , Lynn Geoffrey , Fikrig Erol
Published: November 2020

Acquired tick resistance is a phenomenon wherein the host elicits an immune response against tick salivary components upon repeated tick infestations. The immune responses, potentially directed against critical salivary components, thwart tick feeding, and the animal becomes resistant to subsequent tick infestations. The development of tick resistance is frequently observed when ticks feed on non‐natural hosts, but not on natural hosts. The molecular mechanisms that lead to the development of tick resistance are not fully understood, and both host and tick factors are invoked in this phenomenon. Advances in molecular tools to address the host and the tick are beginning to reveal new insights into this phenomenon and to uncover a deeper understanding of the fundamental biology of tick‐host interactions. This review will focus on the expanding understanding of acquired tick resistance and highlight the impact of this understanding on anti‐tick vaccine development efforts.
Resource orchestration for team‐based innovation: a case study of the interplay between teams, customers, and top management
Authors: Andersén Jim , Ljungkvist Torbjörn
Published: November 2020

The resource orchestration concept has attracted considerable interest in contemporary innovation research. However, resource orchestration is a manager‐centric framework and not all of its components necessarily reflect the value‐creation processes of organizations focusing on team‐based innovation. Drawing on a single‐case study of an innovative Swedish software company, we illustrate the roles of autonomous teams, customers, and top managers in orchestrating resources for team‐based innovation. Moreover, we introduce the concept of resource flocculation to describe how key actors co‐orchestrate various resource orchestration processes. The study contributes to research on resource orchestration by adapting the model to the conditions characterizing team‐based innovation, and to research on team‐based innovation by addressing how innovative teams are related to overall resource orchestration processes and, ultimately, organizational innovation outcomes.
Predicting Suicidal Behavior Without Asking About Suicidal Ideation: Machine Learning and the Role of Borderline Personality Disorder Criteria
Authors: Horvath Adam , Dras Mark , Lai Catie C.W. , Boag Simon
Published: November 2020

Objective

Identifying predictors contributing to suicide risk could help prevent suicides via targeted interventions. However, using only known risk factors may not yield accurate enough results. Furthermore, risk models typically rely on suicidal ideation, even though people often withhold this information.

Method

This study examined the contribution of various predictors to the accuracy of six machine learning models for identifying suicidal behavior in a prison population (n = 353), including borderline personality disorder (BPD) and antisocial personality disorder (APD) criteria, and compared how excluding data about suicidal ideation affects accuracy.

Results

Results revealed that gradient tree boosting accurately identified individuals with suicidal behavior, even without relying on questions about suicidal ideation (AUC = 0.875, F1 = 0.846). Furthermore, the model maintained this accuracy with only 29 predictors. Meeting five or more diagnostic criteria of BPD was an important risk factor for suicidal behavior. APD criteria, in the presence of other predictors, did not substantially improve accuracy. Additionally, it may be possible to implement a decision tree model to assess individuals at risk of suicide, without focusing upon suicidal ideation.

Conclusions

These findings highlight that modern classification algorithms do not necessarily require information about suicidal ideation for modeling suicide and self‐harm behavior.
To‐Infinitive and Gerund‐Participle Clauses with the Verbs Dread and Fear
Authors: Duffley Patrick , Fisher Ryan
Published: November 2020

This paper investigates the variation between to‐infinitive and gerund‐participle complements with the verbs dread and fear. Specifically, it aims to explain the reasons underlying complement selection with these two verbs as well as a number of semantic effects which arise with these complement clause constructions. The approach taken here argues that an explanation of these constructions must be predicated upon an analysis of the semantic content of the items of which each one is composed. Three factors are proposed as being relevant to explaining the issues: (1) the meaning and function of the gerund‐participle, (2) the meaning and function of the to‐infinitive, and (3) the meaning of the main predicate. The findings of this study are in line with those of previous studies which have applied the same approach. This paper is intended as a small contribution to ongoing efforts to crack the complementation issue in English.
Effect of Cu Foam and Ag-Coated Layer on the Microstructure and Mechanical Behavior of Nano-Ag Sintered Joint
Authors: Liu Yang , Li Zhao , Zhou Min , Zeng Xianghua , Sun Fenglian
Published: November 2020

Cu foam (Cu-F) and Ag-coated Cu-F were added into nano-Ag paste to obtain Cu-F@nano-Ag composite sintered joint. The microstructure, hardness, and shear behavior of the sintered joints were investigated. Experimental results indicated that the addition of Cu-F and Ag-coated Cu-F suppressed the generation and propagation of cracks at the interface of the sintered joint. As the thickness of the Cu-F increased from 0.1 mm to 0.2 mm, the deformation ratio of the Cu-F sheet raised from 12% to 50%. Thereby, the hardness and bonding strength of the sintered joint was improved due to the microstructural densification. The bonding quality between Cu-F and sintered Ag is enhanced by the Ag-coating treatment. Therefore, the Ag-coated composite joints show higher shear strength than the others.
Deformation and Failure Properties of Lithium-Ion Battery Under Axial Nail Penetration
Authors: Wang Lubing
Published: November 2020

As one of the commonly used power sources for electric vehicles, cell phones, and laptops, lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) have aroused more and more attention. Lithium-ion batteries will inevitably suffer from external abuse loading, triggering thermal runaway. Nail penetration is one of the most dangerous external loading methods, so it is meaningful to study the failure behaviors under this loading condition. In this article, the experimental study of 18650 cylindrical lithium-ion batteries (with nickel cobalt aluminum oxide cathode) under axial nail penetration is carried out. Force, temperature, and voltage data are recorded synchronously to learn its mechanical, thermal, and electrochemical behaviors, respectively. Then, the loading velocity effect is discussed, and the results show that the loading velocity has no obvious effect on failure properties of lithium-ion battery. Besides, deformation and failure properties of lithium-ion battery are discussed in detail. A simple homogenous computational model is established to predict the mechanical responses of the battery. The partially detailed model is also established to explore the failure mechanism. The batteries are disassembled after loading to better understand the failure morphologies. Two failure modes are discovered through experiments and computational model. The findings can contribute to a better understanding of the failure mechanism of lithium-ion battery under axial nail penetration, providing reference for battery safe design.
No Effects of Different Doses of New Zealand Blackcurrant Extract on Cardiovascular Responses During Rest and Submaximal Exercise Across a Week in Trained Male Cyclists
Authors: Montanari Stefano , Şahin Mehmet A. , Lee Ben J. , Blacker Sam D. , Willems Mark E.T.
Published: November 2020

Supplementation with anthocyanin-rich blackcurrant increases blood flow, cardiac output, and stroke volume at rest. It is not known whether cardiovascular responses can be replicated over longer timeframes in fed trained cyclists. In a randomized, double-blind, crossover design, 13 male trained cyclists (age 39 ± 10 years, 55.3 ± 6.7 ml·kg−1·min−1) consumed two doses of New Zealand blackcurrant (NZBC) extract (300 and 600 mg/day for 1 week). Cardiovascular parameters were measured during rest and submaximal cycling (65% ) on day 1 (D1), D4, and D7. Data were analyzed with an RM ANOVA using dose (placebo vs. 300 vs. 600 mg/day) by time point (D1, D4, and D7). Outcomes from placebo were averaged to determine the coefficient of variation within our experimental model, and 95% confidence interval (CI) was examined for differences between placebo and NZBC. There were no differences in cardiovascular responses at rest between conditions and between days. During submaximal exercise, no positive changes were observed on D1 and D4 after consuming NZBC extract. On D7, intake of 600 mg increased stroke volume (3.08 ml, 95% CI [−2.08, 8.26]; d = 0.16, p = .21), cardiac output (0.39 L/min, 95% CI [−1.39, .60]; d = 0.14, p = .40) (both +2.5%), and lowered total peripheral resistance by 6.5% (−0.46 mmHg·min/ml, 95% CI [−1.80, .89]; d = 0.18, p = .46). However, these changes were trivial and fell within the coefficient of variation of our study design. Therefore, we can conclude that NZBC extract was not effective in enhancing cardiovascular function during rest and submaximal exercise in endurance-trained fed cyclists.
New polio vaccine could boost faltering eradication drive
Authors: Roberts Leslie
Published: November 2020

Sabin's oral vaccine has itself become a source of polio outbreaks. A modern, stabler version may reduce the risk.
Moving beyond the paradigm
Against Method
Paul Feyerabend
New Left Books, 1975. 339 pp.
Authors: Swift Joseph
Published: November 2020

A provocative 1975 call to leave behind dogmatic thinking could help scientists strengthen ties with the public
Dynamic Gut Microbiome Changes in Response to Low-Iron Challenge
Authors: Coe Genevieve L. , Pinkham Nicholas V. , Celis Arianna I. , Johnson Christina , DuBois Jennifer L. , Walk Seth T.
Published: November 2020

All cells need iron. Both too much and too little iron lead to diseases and unwanted outcomes.
Real-world Observational Study on Patient Outcomes in Diabetes (RESPOND): study design and baseline characteristics of patients with type 2 diabetes newly initiating oral antidiabetic drug monotherapy in Japan
Authors: Yabe Daisuke , Higashiyama Hiroko , Kadowaki Takashi , Origasa Hideki , Shimomura Iichiro , Watada Hirotaka , Tobe Keisuke , Iglay Kristy , Tokita Shigeru , Seino Yutaka
Published: November 2020

Introduction

To investigate factors affecting glycemic control, oral antidiabetic drug (OAD) treatment distribution and self-care activities among patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) who newly initiate OAD monotherapy in a real-world setting in Japan.

Research design and methods

A Real-world Observational Study on Patient Outcomes in Diabetes (RESPOND) is an ongoing, prospective, observational cohort study with follow-up at 6, 12, 18 and 24 months. Primary objectives include OAD treatment patterns (cross-sectional and longitudinal) among diabetes specialists versus non-specialists; adherence to diabetes self-care activities; quality of life; treatment satisfaction among patients and target attainment rates of parameters, including glycated hemoglobin. Here, we present the study design and baseline data.

Results

Of 1506 patients enrolled (June 2016–May 2017; 174 sites in Japan), 1485 were included in the baseline analysis (617 treated by specialists, 868 by non-specialists). Most patients were prescribed dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4Is) (specialist vs non-specialist, 54.1% vs 57.1%), then sodium-glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (13.9% vs 22.2%), metformin (20.3% vs 12.9%) and other OADs (<5% individually in both groups). Regardless of age, body mass index and glycated hemoglobin, DPP-4Is were the most commonly prescribed OADs by both specialists and non-specialists. About one-fifth and one-third of patients visiting specialists and non-specialists, respectively, received no advice on diet and exercise. The proportion of patients following self-care recommendations for diet and exercise (2/5 items on the Summary of Diabetes Self-Care Activities) was significantly higher among those visiting specialists than non-specialists.

Conclusion

The use of newer OAD was common across a broad range of clinical characteristics in patients with T2DM who newly initiated monotherapy in Japan. However, patient-related and physician-related factors could affect the treatment changes during the following course of treatment. In addition, treatment outcome could vary with the observed difference in the level of patient education provided by diabetes specialists versus non-specialists.
Combating the COVID-19 pandemic in a resource-constrained setting: insights from initial response in India
Authors:   GRID COVID-19 Study Group
Published: November 2020

The low-and-middle-income country (LMIC) context is volatile, uncertain and resource-constrained. India, an LMIC, has put up a complex response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Using an analytic approach, we have described India’s response to combat the pandemic during the initial months (from 17 January to 20 April 2020). India issued travel advisories and implemented graded international border controls between January and March 2020. By early March, cases started to surge. States scaled up movement restrictions. On 25 March, India went into a nationwide lockdown to ramp up preparedness. The lockdown uncovered contextual vulnerabilities and stimulated countermeasures. India leveraged existing legal frameworks, institutional mechanisms and administrative provisions to respond to the pandemic. Nevertheless, the cross-sectoral impact of the initial combat was intense and is potentially long-lasting. The country could have further benefited from evidence-based policy and planning attuned to local needs and vulnerabilities. Experience from India offers insights to nations, especially LMICs, on the need to have contextualised pandemic response plans.
Dealing with acute diarrhoea in adult horses
Authors: Chidlow Hayley
Published: November 2020

Background

Acute diarrhoea in horses accounts for around 5 per cent of admissions to referral hospitals. The disease can result in significant morbidity and mortality, and so it is important that clinicians are quick to address the clinical signs and provide supportive treatment.

Aim of the article

This article outlines the clinical signs commonly seen in cases of acute diarrhoea, the approach the first‐opinion practitioner can take to achieve a diagnosis of the cause of the diarrhoea and the methods available to treat cases of acute diarrhoea in adult horses. A second article focusing on chronic diarrhoea in horses will be published in a subsequent issue ofIn Practice.
Associations of metabolic syndrome in SLE
Authors: Apostolopoulos Diane , Vincent Fabien , Hoi Alberta , Morand Eric
Published: November 2020

Objectives

To characterise the prevalence and associations of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in a multiethnic cohort of patients with SLE.

Methods

Using a standardised protocol, baseline demographics, per visit disease activity (Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index-2K) and treatment data, and annual recording of organ damage accrual (Systemic Lupus International Collaborating Clinics/American College of Rheumatology (SLICC-ACR) Damage Index) were captured on patients with SLE from a single tertiary centre. The presence of MetS, defined using modified updated joint consensus criteria, was assessed at the final visit from patient records. Serum concentrations of adipocytokines were measured by Quantibody.

Results

116 patients, with median (Q1, Q3) age at enrolment of 39.5 (31.4–51.1) years and disease duration of 6.1 (1.4–12) years, were followed for a median of 6.7 (4.1–8.1) years. The prevalence of MetS was 29% (34/116), while the prevalence of MetS components varied: hypertension (59%), low high-density lipoproteins (HDLs) (51%), hypertriglyceridaemia (32%), obesity (16%) and hyperglycaemia (22%). In univariable analysis, MetS was associated with baseline organ damage (OR 4.34; 95% CI 1.80 to 10.48; p<0.01) and organ damage accrual (OR 2.34; 95% CI 1.02 to 5.36; p=0.04) but not with disease activity. In multivariable analysis, baseline organ damage remained significantly associated with MetS (adjusted OR 3.36; 95% CI 1.32 to 8.59; p=0.01). Glucocorticoid use was not associated with MetS or any of its five components. High serum concentrations of resistin were significantly negatively associated with MetS (OR 0.17; 95% CI 0.04 to 0.70; p=0.014).

Conclusion

MetS was common in a multiethnic cohort of patients with SLE, with the most frequent components being hypertension and low HDL. An independent association was found between MetS and organ damage but not glucocorticoid exposure or disease activity.
Obesity-induced alterations to the immunoproteasome: a potential link to intramuscular lipotoxicity
Authors: Fletcher Emma , Gordon Paul M.
Published: November 2020

Although the mechanisms are unclear, inflammation and/or lipotoxicity likely contribute to obese muscle pathology. The immunoproteasome is known to respond to inflammation and oxidative damage and may aid muscle regeneration. We sought to determine whether diet-induced obesity (DIO) influences the immunoproteasome subunits LMP7 and MECL-1 in mouse muscle with and without exercise-induced muscle damage (EIMD). Muscle mass, regeneration, macrophage content and lipid peroxidation (8-isoprostane) were also assessed. Sixty male, 4-week-old C57BL/6J mice were fed a high-fat (HFD) or low-fat diet for 12 weeks. Mice were then subdivided into EIMD or no muscle damage (NMD) groups. The gastrocnemius muscle was excised 1 or 5 days after EIMD, producing 6 groups (n = 10/group). Body mass was greater; however, relative gastrocnemius mass was lower in HFD-fed mice. Despite no macrophage or MECL-1 alterations, LMP7 and 8-isoprostane were increased in obese mice in the NMD and 1 day post-EIMD groups. However, 8-isoprostane was reduced in obese mice 5 days post-EIMD, and accompanied by increased muscle LMP7, MECL-1 and macrophage content. Consequently, DIO may impair the immunoproteasome’s ability to control muscle lipid peroxidation but is reversed with eccentric exercise. Although muscle regeneration was unchanged, immunoproteasome dysregulation occurs in obese muscle and may contribute to muscle pathology.

Novelty: DIO may impair the intramuscular immunoproteasome response to lipid peroxidation. Acute eccentric exercise may protect obese individuals from muscle lipotoxicity via immunoproteasome upregulation.
Physical modelling of pile drilling in sand
Authors: Lande Einar John , Ritter Stefan , Tyvold Henning , Nordal Steinar
Published: November 2020

Drilling for foundation piles and tieback anchors through soils using a continuous casing to support the borehole is often referred to as “overburden drilling”. Monitoring data from several case studies show that overburden drilling may cause considerable short-term ground settlements indicating a loss of soil volume around the casings. However, further insight is required to understand the mechanisms that govern overburden drilling. Novel physical model tests were carried out to investigate the effects of varying parameters such as flushing media (water or air), flow and penetration rate on the penetration force, pore pressure changes, soil displacements, and drill cutting transport. Tests with water flushing indicate a clear relation between the flow and penetration rate and the resulting influence on the surrounding ground. Increasing flow rates caused larger excess pore pressures at greater radial distances and generated more excess drill cuttings compared to the theoretical casing volume. The obtained results were translated into a non-dimensional framework to estimate optimal flushing parameters in similar conditions. The air flushing tests were considerably limited by the modelling constraints. Notable reduction of pore pressures adjacent to the casing indicate an air-lift pump effect that can lead to extensive ground movements as observed in the field.
Environmental DNA detection of endangered and invasive species in Kejimkujik National Park and Historic Site
Authors: Loeza-Quintana Tzitziki , Crookes Steven , Li Pei Yuan , Reid Darrin P. , Smith Matthew , Hanner Robert H.
Published: November 2020

The use of environmental DNA (eDNA) allows the early detection of aquatic species at low densities (e.g., elusive and invasive species), which otherwise could be challenging to monitor using conventional techniques. Here, we assess the ability of eDNA sampling to detect the presence or absence of one species at risk (Blanding’s turtle) and two invasive species (chain pickerel and smallmouth bass) in Kejimkujik National Park and National Historic Site, Nova Scotia, where the aquatic system is highly acidic and rich in organic compounds. Five replicates of 1 L water samples were taken per sampling site. Water filtration and eDNA extractions were performed on-site, while qPCR reactions were performed in the laboratory using species-specific assays. Samples were treated with an inhibition removal kit and analyzed pre- and post-inhibition removal. Despite the low pH and PCR inhibitors in water samples, our results showed positive eDNA detections in almost all expected positive sites (except in one site for Blanding’s turtle). Detections of the target species were also observed at sites where their presence was previously unknown. Our study supports the advantage of eDNA to monitor species at low densities, revealing new distributions or recently invaded areas. We also demonstrate how eDNA can directly instruct management strategies in Kejimkujik.
Weak Cost Register Automata are Still Powerful
Authors: Almagor Shaull , Cadilhac Michaël , Mazowiecki Filip , Pérez Guillermo A.
Published: November 2020

We consider one of the weakest variants of cost register automata over a tropical semiring, namely copyless cost register automata over [Formula: see text] with updates using [Formula: see text] and increments. We show that this model can simulate, in some sense, the runs of counter machines with zero-tests. We deduce that a number of problems pertaining to that model are undecidable, namely equivalence, upperboundedness, and semilinearity. In particular, the undecidability of equivalence disproves a conjecture of Alur et al. from 2012. To emphasize how weak these machines are, we also show that they can be expressed as a restricted form of linearly-ambiguous weighted automata.
Microwave dielectric properties and optical transmittance of SrTiO3/ZnTiO3 heterolayer thin films fabricated by sol–gel processing
Authors: Li Yang , Xu Biao , Xia Song , Shi Peng
Published: November 2020

SrTiO3/ZnTiO3 heterolayered thin films were fabricated by spin coating Sr–Ti and Zn–Ti sol–gel precursors on fused silica substrate. The SrTiO3 and ZnTiO3 were coated alternatively to form ABAB heterolayered thin films. The thickness of individual layers was tailored by controlling the coating layers. The structure characterization of the thin films showed independent structure of each layer while the microwave dielectric properties and optical band gaps can be tuned by changing the layer configuration. The effects of the layer configuration on the dielectric and optical properties were studied.
Genetic Engineering of Livestock: The Opportunity Cost of Regulatory Delay
Authors: Van Eenennaam Alison L. , De Figueiredo Silva Felipe , Trott Josephine F. , Zilberman David
Published: November 2020

Genetically engineered (GE) livestock were first reported in 1985, and yet only a single GE food animal, the fast-growing AquAdvantage salmon, has been commercialized. There are myriad interconnected reasons for the slow progress in this once-promising field, including technical issues, the structure of livestock industries, lack of public research funding and investment, regulatory obstacles, and concern about public opinion. This review focuses on GE livestock that have been produced and documents the difficulties that researchers and developers have encountered en route. Additionally, the costs associated with delayed commercialization of GE livestock were modeled using three case studies: GE mastitis-resistant dairy cattle, genome-edited porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome virus–resistant pigs, and the AquAdvantage salmon. Delays of 5 or 10 years in the commercialization of GE livestock beyond the normative 10-year GE product evaluation period were associated with billions of dollars in opportunity costs and reduced global food security.
The Role of Physics-Based Simulators in Robotics
Authors: Liu C. Karen , Negrut Dan
Published: November 2020

Physics-based simulation provides an accelerated and safe avenue for developing, verifying, and testing robotic control algorithms and prototype designs. In the quest to leverage machine learning for developing AI-enabled robots, physics-based simulation can generate a wealth of labeled training data in a short amount of time. Physics-based simulation also creates an ideal proving ground for developing intelligent robots that can both learn from their mistakes and be verifiable. This article provides an overview of the use of simulation in robotics, emphasizing how robots (with sensing and actuation components), the environment they operate in, and the humans they interact with are simulated in practice. It concludes with an overview of existing tools for simulation in robotics and a short discussion of aspects that limit the role that simulation plays today in intelligent robot design.
Flexible Models for Complex Data with Applications
Authors: Ley Christophe , Babić Slađana , Craens Domien
Published: November 2020

Probability distributions are the building blocks of statistical modeling and inference. It is therefore of the utmost importance to know which distribution to use in what circumstances, as wrong choices will inevitably entail a biased analysis. In this article, we focus on circumstances involving complex data and describe the most popular flexible models for these settings. We focus on the following complex data: multivariate skew and heavy-tailed data, circular data, toroidal data, and cylindrical data. We illustrate the strength of flexible models on the basis of concrete examples and discuss major applications and challenges.
A Robust Surface-Modified Separator Fabricated with Roll-to-Roll Atomic Layer Deposition and Electrohydrodynamic Deposition Techniques for High Temperature Lithium Ion Batteries
Authors: Manzoor Soomro Afaque , Lee Jae-Wook , Waqas Muhammad , Kim Young Su , Ali Muhsin , Khalid Muhammad Assad Ullah , Choi Kyung Hyun
Published: November 2020

A multilayer separator is developed by the deposition of ultrathin polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) and aluminum oxide (Al2O3) layers on polyolefin separator using in-house designed novel roll-to-roll atmospheric atomic layer deposition (R2R-AALD) and electrohydrodynamic atomization (EHDA) methods. The conformal coatings of ultrathin PVDF (∼5 um) and Al2O3 (∼10 nm) layers form a highly uniform interconnect microporous structure, which enhances thermal stability and mechanical strength. The deposition of PVDF and Al2O3 layers also improves electrolyte wettability and electrolyte uptake (256%), which gives rise to ionic conductivity. The Al2O3/PVDF/Celgard separator shows excellent thermal stability with minimal shrinkage up to 180 °C and robust mechanical strength. The lithium cobalt oxide/graphite (LCO/graphite) cells based on as-developed multilayer separator deliver excellent discharge capacity of 130.9 mAh g−1 at 0.5 C after 150 cycles and capability of 99.6 mAh g−1 at 5 C after 100 cycles at room temperature. Moreover, the LCO/graphite cells with Al2O3/PVDF/Celgard separator also show remarkable cyclic performances at elevated temperatures. The as-developed separator proves to be a better candidate for high capacity lithium ion batteries, especially for high temperature conditions.
Coronary heart disease and atrial fibrillation: a vicious cycle
Authors: Liang Feng , Wang Yi
Published: November 2020

The population suffering from coronary heart disease (CHD) complicated by atrial fibrillation (AF) is rising rapidly. A strong correlation between the two diseases has been reported, and the many common risk factors they share may play prominent roles in their development. In addition, CHD can directly promote the progression of AF by affecting reentry formation, focal ectopic activity, and neural remodeling. At the same time, AF also affects CHD through three aspects: 1) atherosclerosis, 2) the mismatch of blood supply and oxygen consumption, and 3) thrombosis. In conclusion, CHD and AF can aggravate each other and seem to form a vicious cycle. For patients with CHD complicated by AF, principal studies and guidelines have focused on antithrombotic treatment and rhythm control, which are paramount for these patients. Of note, our review sheds light on the strategies to break the cycle of the two diseases, which may be fundamental to treat these patients and optimize the benefit.
Exosomal miR‐22‐3p Derived from Chronic Rhinosinusitis with Nasal Polyps Regulates Vascular Permeability by Targeting VE‐Cadherin
Authors: Zhang Wei , Zhang Ting , Yan Yongbing , Zhang Jie , Zhou Yong , Pei Yinyin , Yao Li , You Bo , Chen Jing
Published: November 2020

Background. The abnormal vascular permeability is associated with the formation of chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps (CRSwNP). Previously, our study demonstrated that the nasal lavage fluid‐ (NLF‐) derived exosomes from CRSwNP can promote the vascular permeability of human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs). miR‐22‐3p, a specific differentiated miRNA, is reported to regulate microvessels in some diseases. This study is purposed to explore the impact of exosomal miR‐22‐3p derived from CRSwNP on vascular permeability and identify the underlying targets. Methods. Exosomes were extracted from NLF of 26 CRSwNP patients and 10 control patients. Quantitative real‐time PCR (qRT‐ PCR) was applied to evaluate the relative level of exosomal miR‐22‐3p. The impact of exosomal miR‐22‐3p on HUVECs was assessed by permeability assays in vitro. The potential molecular targets of miR‐22‐3p were investigated by applying such technologies as dual‐luciferase reporter assay and western blot. Results. miR‐22‐3p was upregulated in NLF‐derived exosomes from CRSwNP. Exosomal miR‐22‐3p derived from CRSwNP enhanced the tubule permeability of HUVECs. Vascular endothelial‐ (VE‐) cadherin (CDH5) was identified as a direct target of miR‐22‐3p. miR‐22‐3p regulated the vascular permeability by targeting VE‐cadherin in HUVECs. Conclusions. Exosomal miR‐22‐3p derived from NLF of CRSwNP plays an important role in regulating vascular permeability by targeting VE‐cadherin.