bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Joining forces toward proactive elephant and rhinoceros conservation
Authors: Vogel Susanne Marieke , Pasgaard Maya , Svenning Jens‐Christian
Published: February 2021

Proactive approaches that anticipate the long‐term effects of current and future conservation threats could increase the effectiveness and efficiency of biodiversity conservation. However, such approaches can be obstructed by a lack of knowledge of habitat requirements for wildlife. To aggregate and assess the suitability of current information available on habitat requirements needed for proactive conservation, we conducted a systematic review of the literature on elephant and rhinoceros habitat requirements and synthesized data by combining a vote counting assessment with bibliometric and term maps. We contextualized these numeric and terminological results with a narrative review. We mapped current methods, results, terminology, and collaborations of 693 studies. Quantitative evidence for factors that influence the suitability of an area for elephants and rhinoceros was biased toward African savanna elephants and ecological variables. Less than one third of holistic approaches considered equal amounts of ecological and anthropogenic variables in their assessments. There was a general lack of quantitative evidence for direct proxies of anthropogenic variables that were expected to play an important role based on qualitative evidence and policy documents. However, there was evidence for a segregation in conceptual frameworks among countries and species and between science versus policy literature. There was also evidence of unused potential for collaborations among southern hemisphere researchers. Our results indicated that the success of proactive conservation interventions can be increased if ecological and anthropogenic dimensions are integrated into holistic habitat assessments and holistic carrying capacities and quantitative evidence for anthropogenic variables is improved. To avoid wasting limited resources, it is necessary to form inclusive collaborations within and across networks of researchers studying different species across regional and continental borders and in the science–policy realm.
Prevalence and trend of allergen sensitization in patients with nummular (discoid) eczema referred for patch testing: North American Contact Dermatitis Group data, 2001–2016
Authors: Silverberg Jonathan I. , Hou Alexander , Warshaw Erin M. , Maibach Howard I. , Belsito Donald V. , DeKoven Joel G. , Zug Kathryn A. , Taylor James S. , Sasseville Denis , Fransway Anthony F. , DeLeo Vincent A. , Pratt Melanie D. , Reeder Margo J. , Atwater Amber R. , Fowler Joseph F. , Zirwas Matthew J. , Marks James G.
Published: February 2021

Background

Few studies have examined the relationship between nummular (discoid) eczema (NE) and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD).

Objective

To examine trends, associations, and clinical relevance of ACD in patients with NE who were referred for patch testing.

Methods

Retrospective analysis of 38 723 patients from the North American Contact Dermatitis Group.

Results

Overall, 748 patients (1.9%) were diagnosed with NE; 23.9% had a concomitant diagnosis of ACD. The prevalence of NE fluctuated over time between 2001 and 2016, with no overall change in prevalence in diagnosed NE. In multivariable logistic regression models, NE increased steadily with age and was associated with male sex and Asian and other race/ethnicity, and inversely associated with a history of atopic dermatitis (AD) and hay fever. Patients with NE had lower proportions of one or more positive allergic reactions and lower odds of a positive reaction in multiple individual allergens. The most commonly relevant allergens in patients with NE were formaldehyde 2.0% aq., methylisothiazolinone, quaternium 15, fragrance mix I, and propylene glycol.

Conclusion

NE is a heterogeneous disorder with distinct subsets of lesional distributions and a profile of relevant allergens, especially formaldehyde and formaldehyde releasers. Nearly one in four patients with NE had ACD, supporting the role of patch testing in patients with NE.
Mixed emotions associated with orca (Orcinus orca) conservation strategies
Authors: Thommen Hailey Kehoe , Swarbrick Karin , Biedenweg Kelly
Published: February 2021

Orcas (Orcinus orca) are a charismatic species with multiple connections to local economies and culture in the Pacific Northwest. As such, emotions play a role in public perspectives and support for their conservation. This research presents the use of Natural Language Processing (NLP) emotion analysis to identify the basic emotions associated with written public responses to orca conservation proposals. We operationalized a multi‐dimensional emotion lexicon using Python 3 programing to extract the frequency and density of each basic emotion in over 17,000 public comments specific to orca conservation submitted to the Washington state governor's office. We found that respondents held a mixture of emotions. Trust was most often associated with the belief that urgent actions by state government could help orca populations, joy was most associated with statements reflecting how healthy orcas are icons for healthy ecosystems upon which all depend, and sadness was associated with statements lamenting the death of individual orcas and population extinction. These results can help conservation managers understand why people might support or reject conservation actions and move past conservation social science that has prioritized the emotional domain of fear. Moreover, NLP provides descriptive emotion analyses of big text datasets within specific conservation contexts that can be further explored through qualitative analyses.
Congenital left atrial appendage aneurysm: Prenatal diagnosis and outcome of a rare cardiac abnormality
Authors: Su Xiaoting , Yang Feng , Yu Dongmei , He Xiangqin
Published: February 2021

Congenital left atrial appendage aneurysm is an extremely rare anomaly. It is seen at any time ranging from fetal to ninth decade of life. Patients with left atrial appendage aneurysm may be asymptomatic, or present with dyspnea, arrhythmias, thromboembolic phenomenon. We report a case of prenatal diagnosis at 26 weeks of gestation, postnatal management and outcome of left atrial appendage aneurysm.
Short‐chain fatty acids increase intracellular calcium levels and enhance gut hormone release from STC‐1 cells via transient receptor potential Ankyrin1
Authors: Kumar Vibhu , Khare Pragyanshu , Devi Kirti , Kaur Jasleen , Kumar Vijay , Kiran Kondepudi Kanthi , Chopra Kanwaljit , Bishnoi Mahendra
Published: February 2021

Short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs), metabolites of colonic bacterial fermentation of complex carbohydrates, are closely related to the release of gut hormones. In this study, we examined the involvement of transient receptor potential ankyrin 1 (TRPA1) in SCFA‐induced increase in intracellular calcium ([Ca2+]i) and its impact on gut hormone secretion using naturally TRPA1 expressing intestinal secretin tumour cell‐1 (STC‐1) cell line. Individual SCFAs and their physiological mix enhanced calcium influx in TRPA1‐dependent manner. SCFA mix also significantly increased membrane expression of TRPA1. Gene expression studies revealed that SCFA mix elevated the expression of genes involved in calcium‐activated calcineurin pathway in TRPA1‐dependent manner and cAMP‐regulated transcriptional co‐activators (CRTC) pathway independent to TRPA1. Genes representing synaptic vesicular exocytosis and gut hormone precursors were significantly elevated with SCFA mix treatment. Treatment with TRPA1 antagonist HC‐030031 markedly reduced these effects. The release of gut hormones was elevated with 10 mm SCFA mix in TRPA1 dependent manner. Our in vivo prebiotic study results suggested presence of an environment conducive to increase in gut hormone secretion. Overall, our findings provide an evidence for the possible role of TRPA1 in SCFA‐induced increase in gut hormone secretion, hence another mechanism of action for prebiotics.
Rating labels and style investing: Evidence from Moody's rating recalibration
Authors: Tao Xinyuan , Wu Chunchi
Published: February 2021

This paper investigates the role of style investing in comovement and return predictability. Using Moody's rating recalibration event to isolate the style effect, we find that changes in rating labels have powerful effects on comovement of municipal bond returns, trading activity, and volatility. Volatility‐based comovement adds to the return comovement. Rating style investing induces return predictability and affects return formation, which interacts with investor sentiment. Shifts in the rating label drive these results through correlated trading activities, and the effects are reinforced by behavioral biases and trading frictions.
Applying the ecosystem model in a new context? The case of business incubation in Oman
Authors: Al‐Baimani Nasser , Clifton Nick , Jones Eleri , Pugh Rhiannon
Published: February 2021

This paper studies entrepreneurship ecosystem development in a context little discussed in the extant literature to date: Oman. Specifically, it focuses on business incubation (BI) initiatives as a policy tool for developing the local, regional, and national systems of supporting entrepreneurship and SME growth. Although BI’s are a popular policy measure for ecosystem development, spreading globally from their original conception in the United States around 60 years ago, their universal effectiveness is questioned. We analyse the tenability of BI as an economic development strategy by entrepreneurship ecosystems as a conceptual framework to help us understand the multitudinous cultural, institutional, and governance structures required for success. Specifically, we consider these ecosystem dynamics and their influence on the incubation of SMEs in the novel context of an oil‐rich yet transitioning economy such as Oman. Conducting interviews with 22 key informants within a range of ecosystem actors (policy‐makers, incubator managers, academics, and entrepreneurs) we find that existing capabilities within the Omani BI programme are not yet fully fit for purpose, highlighting the need to establish developmental priorities for the wider entrepreneurial ecosystem, bottom‐up. Finally, we reflect on the wider cultural and institutional constraints highlighted, and suggest potentially fruitful avenues for further research.
Types of diabetes during pregnancy and longitudinal BMI in offspring from birth to age 10 years
Authors: Sidell Margo , Martinez Mayra P. , Chow Ting , Xiang Anny H.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To examine longitudinal BMI trajectory from birth to age 10 years in a clinical cohort after exposure to maternal pre‐existing type 1 (T1D), type 2 (T2D), gestational diabetes managed with or without anti‐diabetes medication, and no diabetes during pregnancy.

Methods

Data included 218 227 singleton children born in 2008‐2015 from a population‐based integrated healthcare system; 537 exposed to maternal T1D, 7836 to T2D, 6982 to medicated GDM and 12 576 to unmedicated GDM. Differences in BMI over time among groups were assessed by non‐linear mixed‐effects models adjusting for covariates.

Results

Children's BMI was significantly lower 6‐months after birth for all diabetes exposed groups compared to no diabetes. Beginning at approximately age 2.5 years, BMI was significantly higher for T1D, T2D and medicated GDM groups compared to the no diabetes group. At age 3, the growth pattern started separating with highest BMI in T1D and T2D groups, followed by medicated GDM, unmedicated GDM, and the no diabetes groups. By age 7, BMI was significantly higher for the unmedicated GDM group compared to the no diabetes group. Adjusted BMI was generally comparable between T1D and T2D groups for all ages. Starting at age 5, T1D, T2D and medicated GDM groups had BMI greater than one SD over the BMI in the no diabetes group.

Conclusion

In a clinical cohort with standard diabetes management approaches, a hierarchical BMI growth pattern exists in offspring exposed to different types of diabetes during pregnancy after adjusting for important covariates, starting as early as age 3 years.
New normal: caring for hospitalised patients in the Bronx, New York, during COVID‐19
Authors: Akiyama Matthew J. , Arnsten Julia H. , Roth Serena
Published: February 2021

The Bronx, New York, is the poorest congressional district in the United States and has the highest COVID‐19 infection rate in New York City. COVID‐19 has led to major changes in our healthcare system, including heightened infection‐control practices, novel staffing patterns and widespread social distancing. In this article, we describe how our experience with inpatient care has changed in the wake of COVID‐19.
Managing COVID‐19 in patients with inflammatory bowel disease: navigating unprecedented challenges
Authors: Prentice Ralley E. , Al‐Ani Aysha , Christensen Britt
Published: February 2021

The COVID‐19 pandemic has demanded a rapid adaptation in healthcare provision, including patients with inflammatory bowel disease (IBD). This viewpoint discusses some of the unique challenges in managing comorbid IBD and COVID‐10 experienced by our team at The Royal Melbourne Hospital, which was at the epicentre of the COVID‐19 ‘second‐wave’ surge in Melbourne.
The prevalence and determinants of inappropriate sexual behaviour in people with acquired brain injury in nursing homes
Authors: Kohnen Roy F. , Lavrijsen Jan , Akkermans Reinier , Gerritsen Debby , Koopmans Raymond
Published: February 2021

Aims

Establishing the prevalence of inappropriate sexual behaviour, concurrent challenging behaviours and the determinants of inappropriate sexual behaviour among patients with acquired brain injury ≤65 years of age in Dutch nursing homes.

Design

Cross‐sectional, observational study in acquired brain injury special care units spreads throughout the country.

Methods

Nursing homes were recruited through the national expertise network for patients with severe acquired brain injury, regional brain injury teams and by searching the Internet. Patient characteristics were collected through digital questionnaires. Inappropriate sexual behaviour was assessed with the St. Andrews Sexual Behaviour Assessment, concurrent challenging behaviours with the NeuroPsychiatric Inventory‐Nursing Home Version and the Cohen‐Mansfield Agitation Inventory, cognition with the Mini‐Mental State Examination and activities of daily living with the Disability Rating Scale. Psychotropic drug use was retrieved from the electronic prescription system. Associations between determinants and inappropriate sexual behaviour were examined using multilevel multivariate linear regression model analyses. Data collection started in June 2017 and ended in April 2019.

Results

Of the 118 included patients, 38.1% had one or more inappropriate sexual behaviours. Verbal comments (30.1%) and non‐contact behaviour (24.8%) were the most prevalent types of inappropriate sexual behaviour. Less severe behaviours were more common than more severe behaviours. The most frequent concurrent challenging behaviours were agitation, aggression and hyperactivity. Physical aggression was associated with more inappropriate sexual behaviour. Being married and pain were associated with less inappropriate sexual behaviour.

Conclusion

Inappropriate sexual behaviour is prevalent in patients with acquired brain injury ≤65 years of age residing in nursing homes.

Impact

Inappropriate sexual behaviour may have impact not only on the patients themselves but also on nursing staff. Insight into the magnitude, severity, course and concurrent challenging behaviours, sexuality and quality of life could give direction to the kind of interventions and education that is needed. The ultimate goal is to develop appropriate care for this vulnerable group of patients, specifically psychosocial interventions and appropriate use of psychotropic drugs.
Development of a double‐antibody sandwich enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (DAS‐ELISA) for the detection of KHV
Authors: Li Yingying , Wang Qing , Hu Feng , Wang Yingying , Bergmann Sven M. , Zeng Weiwei , Yin Jiyuan , Shi Cunbin
Published: February 2021

Koi herpesvirus disease (KHVD) caused by the koi herpesvirus (KHV) is difficult to diagnose in live fish, presenting a challenge to the koi industry. The enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) method cannot be widely used to detect KHV because few commercial anti‐KHV antibody exists. Here, we developed an anti‐ORF132 polyclonal antibody and confirmed its reactivity via indirect immunofluorescence assay and Western blotting. A double‐antibody sandwich ELISA (DAS‐ELISA) was established to detect KHV, monoclonal antibody 1B71B4 against ORF92 was used as the capture antibody, and the detection antibody was the polyclonal antibody against the truncated ORF132. The lowest limit was 1.56 ng/ml KHV. Furthermore, the DAS‐ELISA reacted with KHV isolates, while no cross‐reactions occurred with carp oedema virus, spring viraemia of carp virus, frog virus 3 and grass carp reovirus. Two hundred koi serum samples from Guangdong, China, were used in the DAS‐ELISA test, and the positive rate of the koi sera was 13%. The clinical sensitivity and specificity of the DAS‐ELISA relative to the traditional PCR method were 66.7% and 97.6%, respectively. Our findings may be useful for diagnosing and preventing KHVD in koi and common carp.
Effects of hot and cold debriefing in simulation with case‐based learning
Authors: Ha Eun‐Ho
Published: February 2021

Aim

For successful simulation‐based learning (SBL), a structured interactive and bidirectional debriefing should be a prerequisite. The purpose of this study is to identify the effects of instructor‐led hot debriefing (debriefing immediately after simulation) and cold debriefing (debriefing occurring after a certain period following simulation) in simulation with case‐based learning (CBL).

Method

This study used a nonequivalent control group pretest‐posttest design. A sample of 59 fourth‐year nursing students in South Korea were invited and randomly divided into two groups, a post‐simulation hot debriefing (PSHD, male = 4, female = 26), and cold debriefing (PSCD, male = 3, female = 26). We used clinical performance competency, satisfaction with CBL and SBL, and debriefing tools. The study period was from October to December of 2019. We analyzed the data with SPSS 23.0 software, using descriptive statistics and the t test.

Results

Clinical performance competency means that the scores of both groups were significantly improved in the posttest (PSHD = 33.13 ± 5.11, PSCD = 34.10 ± 4.15) as compared to those in the pretest (t = −7.010, p < .001). The knowledge (t = −12.689, p < .001) and skill (t = −5.338, p = .001) scores of clinical performance competency in the PSCD were higher than those in the PSHD. The mean satisfaction scores of the PSHD group with CBL (4.53 ± 0.60) and debriefing (4.66 ± 0.55) was higher than for those in the PSCD group.

Conclusion

As a result of this study, PSHD and PSCD led by an instructor improved student clinical performance competency. The PSHD method, in particular, might be a positive influence on learner satisfaction with CBL, SBL, and debriefing.
The Gaps of Healthcare Service Quality in Nurse Practitioner Practice and Its Associated Factors From the Patients’ Perspective
Authors: Lin Chia‐Hung , Siao Shu‐Fen , Tung Heng‐Hsin , Chung Kuo‐Piao , Shun Shiow‐Ching
Published: February 2021

Purpose

This study investigates the expectations, perceptions, and gaps of the healthcare service quality (HSQ) from the patients’ perspective, and explores the significant demographic and clinical factors associated with the HSQ in nurse practitioner practice (NPP).

Design

A cross‐sectional design was carried out, with convenience sampling performed under the NPP in Taiwan, from June to November 2016.

Methods

The Nurse Practitioner Healthcare Service Quality Scale was used to assess the expectations, perceptions, and gaps of the HSQ. The demographics, clinical characteristics, and symptom severity of patients were collected, and the Importance‐Performance Analysis was applied to identify the priority of ranking items for the improvement of nurse practitioners (NPs). The Generalized Estimating Equation was used to explore the factors associated with the HSQ in NPP.

Findings

A total of 200 patients completed the questionnaires. The results revealed that the patients had overall high expectations (M= 6.35,SD= 0.46), moderate perceptions (M= 4.21,SD= 0.95), and a mild HSQ gap (M= ‐2.14,SD= 0.69), with statistically significant differences (p< .001). In NPP, the largest gap in the HSQ dimensions was reliable responsiveness, followed by empathy, assurance, and tangibility. Patients with greater symptom severity and a longer in‐hospital stay were associated with larger HSQ gaps; however, patients who were transferred from the emergency department had smaller gaps than those in the outpatient department.

Conclusions

The patients’ expectations were not fully satisfied in the NPP, especially for the dimensions of reliable responsiveness and empathy. The patients’ symptom severity was a significant factor related to the gaps in the HSQ. The awareness of unmet needs, from the patients’ perspective, could guide the convergence of a rational policy to promote healthcare delivery in the NPP.

Clinical Relevance

The managers of NPP need to pay attention to increasing NPs’ reliable responsiveness and empathy, by setting the appropriate scope of practice, regulating the NP‐to‐patient ratio, applying for certification programs in prescribing training, and cultivating patient‐centered care with shared decision making. In addition, building up the knowledge and competency of symptom management is also suggested for NP training.
Factors associated with dental fluorosis among Malaysian children exposed to different fluoride concentrations in the public water supply
Authors: Mohd Nor Nor Azlida , Chadwick Barbara L. , Farnell Damian J. J. , Chestnutt Ivor G.
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To determine the prevalence of dental fluorosis, and factors associated with its occurrence in two cohorts of children exposed to different fluoride concentrations in the Malaysian water supply.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted among lifelong residents (n = 1,155) aged 9 and 12 years old living in fluoridated and nonfluoridated areas. Malaysian children aged 12 years were born when the level of fluoride in the public water supply was 0.7 ppm while those aged 9 years were born after the level was reduced to 0.5 ppm. Fluorosis was blind scored using standardized photographs of maxillary central incisors using Dean's criteria. Fluoride exposures and other factors were assessed by parental questionnaire. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Chi‐squared analyses, and logistic regression.

Results

Fluorosis prevalence was lower (31.9 percent) among the younger children born after the reduction of fluoride concentration in the water, compared to a prevalence of 38.4 percent in the older cohort. Early tooth brushing practices and fluoridated toothpaste were not statistically associated with fluorosis status. However, the prevalence of fluorosis was significantly associated with parents' education level, parents' income, fluoridated water, type of infant feeding method, age breast feeding ceased, use of formula milk, duration of formula milk intake, and type of water used to reconstitute formula milk via simple logistic regression. Fluoridated water remained a significant risk factor for fluorosis in multiple logistic regression.

Conclusions

Fluorosis was lower among children born after the adjustment of fluoride concentration in the water. Fluoridated water remained as a strong risk factor for fluorosis after downward adjustment of its fluoride concentration.
Automatic far‐field camera calibration for construction scene analysis
Authors: Assadzadeh Amin , Arashpour Mehrdad , Bab‐Hadiashar Alireza , Ngo Tuan , Li Heng
Published: February 2021

The use of cameras for safety monitoring, progress tracking, and site security has grown significantly on construction and civil infrastructure sites over the past decade. Localization of construction resources is a crucial prerequisite for many applications in automated construction management. However, most existing vision‐based methods perform the analysis in the image plane, overlooking the effect of perspective and depth. The manual and labor‐intensive process of traditional calibration techniques, as well as the busy and restrictive construction environment, makes this a challenging task. This study proposes a framework for automatic camera calibration with no manual intervention. The framework utilizes convolutional neural networks for geometrical scene analysis and object detection, which are used to estimate the location of horizon line, vertical vanishing point, as well as objects with known height distributions. This enables automatic estimation of camera parameters and retrieval of scale. The proposed framework is evaluated on images from two major construction projects in Melbourne, Australia. Results show that the proposed method achieves a minimum accuracy of 90% in estimating proximity of points on the ground and can facilitate further development of vision‐based solutions for safety and productivity analysis.
Measurement of cortisol in blow samples collected from free‐swimming beluga whales (Delphinapterus leucas)
Authors: Hudson Justine M. , Anderson W. Gary , Marcoux Marianne
Published: February 2021

Blow or respiratory vapor collection is a noninvasive technique for monitoring the physiology of cetaceans and although this technique shows promise, a major challenge of blow collection is difficulty quantifying samples due to variable amounts of seawater contamination. Here, we aimed to (1) determine whether blow samples could be collected from free‐swimming belugas, (2) assess whether urea could be used as a dilution marker to normalize blow samples, and (3) determine which factors influenced cortisol and urea concentrations. We collected a total of 252 blow samples from free‐swimming belugas in the Churchill River in Manitoba, Canada. Cortisol, an indicator of individual stress and health, was detected in 65.87% of samples with concentrations ranging from 6.73 to 963.17 pg/ml of extract volume, while urea was detected in 90.48% of samples with concentrations ranging from 0.21 to 20.30 mg/L. We were unable to verify the efficacy of urea as a dilution marker to normalize blow samples from free‐swimming belugas; however, absolute cortisol concentrations varied based on sample device and quantity rating. Although we demonstrated that blow can be successfully collected from free‐swimming belugas, further refinement of this technique is needed before it can be used as a reliable method for physiological assessments.
Trust and Involvement as Higher‐Order Factors of General Attitudes Towards Politics. Testing a Structural Model Across 26 Democracies
Authors: Bromme Laurits , Rothmund Tobias
Published: February 2021

Interindividual differences in how people think and feel about politics have been investigated for decades. However, the great number of attitudinal concepts that has been developed to describe these differences is likely to distract from their conceptual overlap and dimensional structure. In addition, not much is known about the cross‐cultural invariance of their interrelation. We propose that attitudes towards politics can be structured by two broad higher‐order factors, a factor ofgeneral political involvementand a factor ofgeneral political trust. In two studies (N1 = 767;N2 = 29,018), including representative samples from 26 democracies, we first conduct several confirmatory factor analyses (CFA) to show that the higher‐order model is a well‐fitting and parsimonious alternative to a baseline model without higher‐order factors in most samples. Second, we present evidence from multigroup CFA that the overall patterns of factor loadings are the same across all 26 countries. We interpret this structural equivalence across different democracies as support for the assumption that general political involvement and general political trust reflect basic orientations towards politics that are based on (1) demands of democratic political systems and (2) universal principles in human trait structure.
The use of metaphor to explore prospective mathematics teachers’ projective identity
Authors: Gomez Carlos Nicolas
Published: February 2021

Metaphors have been widely used to investigate the perspectives of teachers and students in mathematics. In this report, an instrument was developed, the metaphor continuums, to provide a space for four prospective teachers to discuss their projective identities as teachers and mathematics teacher. Using an argumentation perspective on identity, the responses to the instrument were investigated to determine a tentative manifestation of the participants’ projective identity. The participants’ provided some evidence of their projective identities as teacher and mathematics teachers being aligned. One participant did not provide evidence of distinguishing between her identity as a mathematics teacher and a teacher. The vehicles, or subject of the metaphors, given to the participants provided varying ways for them to explore their ideas of teaching and learning mathematics. The metaphor continuums showed potential for mathematics teacher educators to receive initial information to help in determining targeted interventions for their students.
Conduction in Rings With Internal Heat Generation
Authors: Wang C. Y.
Published: February 2021

The basic problem of steady-state heat conduction in a ring with internal heat generation and convective boundary conditions is considered. An exact solution is found for the ring with a rectangular cross section and an efficient Ritz method is presented for general cross sections. The latter is applied to the torus or the ring with a circular cross section. Hot spots and cold spots are determined.
Gas–Solid Erosion Wear Characteristics of Elbow Pipe With Corrosion Defects
Authors: Zhang Jie , Zhang Hao , Chen Xiaohua , Yu Chunyu
Published: February 2021

Corrosion and erosion are the main factors of pipes failure. Erosion wear characteristics of elbow pipe with corrosion defect are investigated in this paper. Initially, the erosion result of nondefect elbow pipe is calculated and compared to elbow pipe with corrosion defect. An elliptical erosion area with a V-shaped dent occurs at the extrados due to the particles' impact. The uniform corrosion defects change the structure of the pipe's inner surface. Therefore, the defect areas are more prone to be impacted by particles and then more severe erosion occurs. The maximum erosion rates of corrosion defect and noncorrosion area synchronously reach the maximum value as the corrosion defect located at 55 deg. The larger the particle mass flow rate is, the more severe the elbow pipe erosion is. As the flow rate increases, erosion rates of corrosion area and noncorrosion area increase, while the maximum erosion rate of corrosion area occurs at 55 deg. Structural parameters of corrosion defects affect the erosion. As the distance between two corrosion defects increases, the maximum erosion rate of lower corrosion defect increases. Considering the location, structure, and number of corrosion defect, a larger corrosion defect located in the middle of extrados has a worse effect on elbow pipe safety.
Fully Plastic Failure Stresses and Allowable Crack Sizes for Circumferentially Surface-Cracked Pipes Subjected to Tensile Loading
Authors: Hasegawa Kunio , Dvořák David , Mareš Vratislav , Strnadel Bohumir , Li Yinsheng
Published: February 2021

Fully plastic failure stresses for circumferentially surface-cracked pipes subjected to tensile loading can be estimated by means of limit load criteria based on the net-section stress approach. Limit load criteria of the first type (labeled LLC-1) were derived from the balance of uniaxial forces. Limit load criteria of the second type are given in Section XI of the ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineering) Code, and were derived from the balance of bending moment and axial force. These are labeled LLC-2. Fully plastic failure stresses estimated by using LLC-1 and LLC-2 were compared. The stresses estimated by LLC-1 are always larger than those estimated by LLC-2. From the literature survey of experimental data, failure stresses obtained by both types of LLC were compared with the experimental data. It can be stated that failure stresses calculated by LLC-1 are better than those calculated by LLC-2 for shallow cracks. On the contrary, for deep cracks, LLC-2 predictions of failure stresses are fairly close to the experimental data. Furthermore, allowable circumferential crack sizes obtained by LLC-1 were compared with the sizes given in Section XI of the ASME Code. The allowable crack sizes obtained by LLC-1 are larger than those obtained by LLC-2. It can be stated that the allowable crack size for tensile stress depends on the condition of constraint of the pipe, and the allowable cracks given in Section XI of the ASME Code are conservative.
Strong local, not global, controls on marine pyrite sulfur isotopes
Authors: Pasquier V. , Bryant R. N. , Fike D. A. , Halevy I.
Published: February 2021

Local to regional depositional environment controls the S-isotopic composition of sedimentary pyrite.
A unified vegetation index for quantifying the terrestrial biosphere
Authors: Camps-Valls Gustau , Campos-Taberner Manuel , Moreno-Martínez Álvaro , Walther Sophia , Duveiller Grégory , Cescatti Alessandro , Mahecha Miguel D. , Muñoz-Marí Jordi , García-Haro Francisco Javier , Guanter Luis , Jung Martin , Gamon John A. , Reichstein Markus , Running Steven W.
Published: February 2021

Machine learning generalizes vegetation indices to better quantify the terrestrial biosphere.
Extended amygdala-parabrachial circuits alter threat assessment and regulate feeding
Authors: Luskin Andrew T. , Bhatti Dionnet L. , Mulvey Bernard , Pedersen Christian E. , Girven Kasey S. , Oden-Brunson Hannah , Kimbell Kate , Blackburn Taylor , Sawyer Abbie , Gereau Robert W. , Dougherty Joseph D. , Bruchas Michael R.
Published: February 2021

Circuit dissection techniques reveal that extended amygdala-brainstem circuitry integrates threat and feeding behavior.
The global network of ports supporting high seas fishing
Authors: Rodríguez Jorge P. , Fernández-Gracia Juan , Duarte Carlos M. , Irigoien Xabier , Eguíluz Víctor M.
Published: February 2021

High seas fishing is described by a modular network coupled with a heterogeneous hierarchy of harbors and countries.
Ultrasound Doppler-guided real-time navigation of a magnetic microswarm for active endovascular delivery
Authors: Wang Qianqian , Chan Kai Fung , Schweizer Kathrin , Du Xingzhou , Jin Dongdong , Yu Simon Chun Ho , Nelson Bradley J. , Zhang Li
Published: February 2021

Ultrasound Doppler–guided formation and navigation of nanoparticle microswarm enable real-time active endovascular delivery.
Population Pharmacokinetics of Dalbavancin and Dosing Consideration for Optimal Treatment of Adult Patients with Staphylococcal Osteoarticular Infections
Authors: Cojutti Pier Giorgio , Rinaldi Matteo , Zamparini Eleonora , Rossi Nicolò , Tedeschi Sara , Conti Matteo , Pea Federico , Viale Pierluigi
Published: February 2021

Dalbavancin is gaining interest in the treatment of complex osteoarticular (OA) infections. We aimed to conduct a population pharmacokinetic analysis of dalbavancin in a prospective cohort of adult patients with OA infections caused by Gram-positive organisms and to identify optimal dosing regimens for long-term treatment.
Staged penile reconstruction with pedicled groin flap for penile shaft necrosis following circumcision
Authors: Musa Abdallah Abdelrhman Rahamah , Ahmed Osama Murtada
Published: February 2021

A 10-year-old boy was referred by urologist to plastic surgery department with penile shaft necrosis after debridement of necrotic tissue and dry eschar that extends from the glans to the penile root and was started to separate. Also, they managed to insert urethral catheter. He had traditional circumcision 2 weeks earlier performed at home by a traditional health practitioner, resulting in full-thickness tissue loss involving skin and corpora cavernosa with sparing of the glans which was attached by stalk of scared tissue enveloping the spongiosum. After assessment and analysis of the defect was done, two-stage pedicled groin flap reconstruction was performed with satisfactory results. In this report, we are demonstrating procedure steps and outcome.
Cystic left ventricular mass: the utility of transthoracic echocardiography and cardiac MRI
Authors: Janus Scott E , Al-Kindi Sadeer G , Rashid Imran , Hoit Brian D
Published: February 2021

Accurate identification of left ventricular masses (LVM) can be challenging, and if incorrect, may have devastating consequences. While transthoracic echocardiography is often the first test to identify intracardiac masses, cardiac MRI (CMRI) allows for better anatomical definition and tissue characterisation. We present a case of a 51-year-old man who presented with 4 weeks of shortness of breath, found on echocardiogram to have severely reduced LV function and a 2.5×4.0 cm LVM with a hypolucent/cystic core. Due to the unusual appearance, CMRI was required for confirmation of an LV thrombus. This case highlights the importance of multimodality imaging in the discovery and identification of LVM.
Severe hypothyroidism following a single topical exposure to iodine in a premature neonate
Authors: Breen Catherine Mary , Salama Monica Fahim , Boyle Michael A
Published: February 2021

A neonate, born at 24 weeks, underwent a patent ductus arteriosus ligation, with previous normal thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) levels, developed severe hypothyroidism from topical exposure to iodine following a single surgical procedure at 28 days of life. A low free T4 level of 0.05 ng/dL and a high TSH level of 228 mIU/L was detected with an increased urinary iodine excretion level of 178 mg/L (reference range 0.30–1.97 mg/L). The thyroid ultrasound was normal. Levothyroxine was started immediately but thyroid function did not recover fully during admission and levothyroxine was required beyond term corrected. This case highlighted how susceptible extremely preterm infants are to iodine induced hypothyroidism, even short-term topical exposure. Delayed treatment of hypothyroidism can lead to profound neurodevelopmental delay. As surgical advances allow for interventions at earlier gestations, the importance of early thyroid function testing postexposure to iodine is highlighted and ultimately topical iodine should be avoided in these susceptible infants.
Undiagnosed bilateral complete cervical rib with subclavian artery aneurysm presenting as acute ischaemic limb following high-altitude expedition
Authors: Lahiri Raja , Chauhan Udit , Kumar Ajay , Puliyath Nisanth
Published: February 2021

Arterial thoracic outlet syndrome is relatively rare and often exclusively seen in the presence of bony anomalies. High-altitude (HA) travel is commonly associated with thrombosis; however, arterial thromboembolism is less frequently described. We describe a case of a young man with undiagnosed bilateral cervical rib, who went for an HA trek, subsequent to which developed acute limb ischaemia of right arm. Diagnostic workup revealed a subclavian artery aneurysm as well along with complete bony bilateral cervical ribs. Thoracic outlet syndrome should be kept as a differential diagnosis in a case of acute limb ischaemia in a healthy adult.
Expression of concern: potential risk for developing severe COVID-19 disease among anabolic steroid users
Authors: Cadegiani Flavio , Lin Erica M , Goren Andy , Wambier Carlos G
Published: February 2021

This article has been retracted.
Prospective, randomised, controlled study on the efficacy and safety of different strategies of tranexamic acid with total blood loss, blood transfusion rate and thrombogenic biomarkers in total knee arthroplasty: study protocol
Authors: Yang Yong , Wang Zheng , Wang Faxuan , Zhao Xin , Yang Kaijie , He Jinlong , Jin Yun , Yang Haibo , Ding Dong , Jin Qunhua
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is a common and highly effective orthopaedic procedure for treating end-stage knee osteoarthritis. Tranexamic acid (TXA) has become a routine part of perioperative care in TKAs. The best practices regarding the delivery method of TXA in TKA remain controversial. Plasminogen activator inhibitor-1 (PAI-1), thrombin–antithrombin (TAT) complexes and prothrombin fragment F1+2 (F1+2) have been demonstrated to be elevated in patients with venous thromboembolism (VTE). The aim of this trial was to investigate the most efficacious delivery method of TXA (comparison of intravenous and topical applications and comparison of three topical applications) and to evaluate the safety of TXA strategies by investigating the effect of TXA on the plasma D-dimer, PAI-1, TAT and F1+2 levels.

Methods and design

This trial is a prospective, randomised, controlled study that will evaluate the efficacy and safety of strategies of TXA. A total of 250 patients undergoing primary TKA will be randomly allocated to five groups for different TXA applications. The primary outcome is total blood loss. The secondary outcomes are blood transfusion rate, drainage volume, plasma D-dimer, PAI-1, TAT and F1+2 levels, maximum haemoglobin drop, wound complications, VTE and length of hospital stay.

Ethics and dissemination

This study’s protocol is in accordance with the declaration of Helsinki. The ethics committee of the General Hospital of Ningxia Medical University approved this study (approval ID: 2020–505). The results of this study will be disseminated in international peer reviewed journals.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2000030624.
Internet-based acceptance and commitment therapy programme ‘Happiness Mom’ for well-being: a protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sasaki Natsu , Imamura Kotaro , Nishi Daisuke , Watanabe Kazuhiro , Sekiya Yuki , Tsuno Kanami , Kobayashi Yuka , Kawakami Norito
Published: February 2021

Introduction

This randomised controlled trial (RCT) aims to examine the effects of an internet-delivered acceptance and commitment therapy (iACT) programme (‘Happiness Mom’) on the psychological well-being of working mothers.

Methods and analysis

The target population of the RCT will be employed mothers with at least one preschool child. Participants who fulfil the study’s eligibility criteria will be randomly assigned either to an iACT intervention group (n=200) or to a wait-list control group (n=200). Participants in the intervention groups will be asked to complete the programme within 12 weeks of the baseline survey. The intervention programme contains eight modules based on ACT. Primary outcomes are six components of psychological well-being, based on Ryff’s theory. Secondary outcomes are intention to leave their job, work engagement, work performance, sick leave days, psychological distress, euthymia, positive emotions, job and life satisfaction, social support and parental burn-out.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval for this study has been obtained from the Research Ethics Review Board of Graduate School of Medicine, the University of Tokyo (No. 2019134NI). If the intervention programmes are found to be significantly beneficial, the programmes can be made available for all working mothers with preschool children in Japan.

Discussion

This study will contribute to the development of an internet-based self-care programme that is effective, feasible, low cost and accessible to improve the well-being of working mothers.

Trial registration number

UMIN000039918.
Willingness of patients with sarcoma to participate in cancer surveillance research: a cross-sectional patient survey
Authors: Schneider Patricia , Giglio Victoria , Ghanem Dana , Wilson David , Turcotte Robert , Isler Marc , Mottard Sophie , Miller Benjamin , Hayden James , Doung Yee-Cheen , Gundle Kenneth , Randall R Lor , Jones Kevin , Vélez Roberto , Ghert Michelle
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To determine the proportion of patients with extremity sarcoma who would be willing to participate in a clinical trial in which they would be randomised to one of four different postoperative sarcoma surveillance regimens. Additionally, we assessed patients’ perspectives on the burden of cancer care, factors that influence comfort with randomisation and the importance of cancer research.

Design

Prospective, cross-sectional patient survey.

Setting

Outpatient sarcoma clinics in Canada, the USA and Spain between May 2017 and April 2020. Survey data were entered into a study-specific database.

Participants

Patients with extremity sarcoma who had completed definitive treatment from seven clinics across Canada, the USA and Spain.

Main outcome measures

The proportion of patients with extremity sarcoma who would be willing to participate in a randomised controlled trial (RCT) that evaluates varying postoperative cancer surveillance regimens.

Results

One hundred thirty complete surveys were obtained. Respondents reported a wide range of burdens related to clinical care and surveillance. The majority of patients (85.5%) responded that they would agree to participate in a cancer surveillance RCT if eligible. The most common reason to participate was that they wanted to help future patients. Those that would decline to participate most commonly reported that participating in research would be too much of a burden for them at a time when they are already feeling overwhelmed. However, most patients agreed that cancer research will help doctors better understand and treat cancer.

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that most participants would be willing to participate in an RCT that evaluates varying postoperative cancer surveillance regimens. Participants’ motivation for trial participation included altruistic reasons to help future patients and deterrents to trial participation included the overwhelming burden of a cancer diagnosis. These results will help inform the development of patient-centred RCT protocols in sarcoma surveillance research.

Level of evidence

V.
Risk stratifying gastric ulcers: development and validation of a scoring system
Authors: Brindle William M , Grant Rebecca K , Smith Marianne , Suddaby Meghan , Wallace Angus , Gillespie Sarah-Louise , Church Nicholas I , Noble Colin L , Penman Ian D , Plevris John N , Robertson Alexander R , Watson Eleanor F , Selinger Christian P , Kalla Rahul , Masterton Gail S M
Published: February 2021

Objective

Debate is ongoing regarding the need for universal endoscopic follow-up to ensure gastric ulcer healing. We aimed to assess the value of follow-up oesophago-gastro-duodenoscopies (OGDs) for gastric ulcer healing and stratify patients according to risk of malignancy by developing a risk score.

Design/method

All patients in National Health Service (NHS) Lothian with an index OGD and a diagnosis of gastric ulcer between 1 January 2014 and 31 December 2018 were identified. Data were analysed with logistic regression to identify factors significantly associated with a diagnosis of cancer; a risk score was derived and externally validated.

Results

778 patients were identified and 60.3% (469/778) of patients had a follow-up OGD. 8.6% (66/778) of patients were diagnosed with cancer. No cases of cancer were found on follow-up OGD of a benign appearing ulcer with negative biopsies. Macroscopic suspicion of malignancy was present at index OGD in 100% (3/3) of those diagnosed with cancer on subsequent OGDs. Older age (p=0.014), increased ulcer size (p<0.001) and non-antral location (p=0.030) were significantly associated with malignancy. A risk score (area under the curve (AUC) 0.868, p<0.001, minimum score=0, maximum score=6) was derived from these variables. 78.0% of patients with malignant ulcers scored ≥3, only 15.8% with benign ulcers scored ≥3 (negative predictive value (NPV) 97.4%). External validation yielded an AUC of 0.862 (p<0.001) and NPV of 98.6%; 84.0% of those with malignant ulcers scored ≥3.

Conclusion

Ulcers with a combination of macroscopically benign appearances, at least six negative biopsies and a low risk score do not necessarily need endoscopic follow-up.