bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Healthcare costs and hospitalizations in US patients with type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease: A retrospective database study (OFFSET)
Authors: Evans Marc , Chandramouli Abhishek Shankar , Faurby Mads , Matthiessen Kasper Sommer , Mogensen Phillip Bredahl , Verma Subodh
Published: April 2022

Aim

To investigate the budget implications of treatment with glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1 RAs) versus other glucose‐lowering treatment (here termed ‘standard of care’ [SoC]) during 2012‐2019.

Materials and Methods

GLP‐1 RA‐naïve adults with type 2 diabetes (T2D) in the IBM MarketScan database with at least one glucose‐lowering medication claim within 6 months after their first cardiovascular disease (CVD) hospitalization were included (index date was the date of first claim for a GLP‐1 RA for the GLP‐1 RA group, and the date of the first claim, independent of medication type, for the SoC group). Monthly healthcare costs and hospitalization risk over 12 months postindex date were compared for those who initiated a GLP‐1 RA posthospitalization versus those with a claim for any other glucose‐lowering medication.

Results

Postindex date, mean observed total costs were lower for patients receiving a GLP‐1 RA compared with SoC ($3853 vs. $4288). In adjusted analysis, both groups had similar total healthcare costs (P = .56). This was driven by significantly lower inpatient and outpatient costs and higher drug costs in the GLP‐1 RA group compared with SoC (P < .001). Risks of all‐cause (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.85) and CVD‐related hospitalization (0.76) were significantly lower in the GLP‐1 RA group compared with SoC (P < .001). Similar results were observed in a subgroup with atherosclerotic CVD.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that, in US patients with T2D and a CVD‐related hospitalization, the added medical cost of treatment with GLP‐1 RAs is offset by lower inpatient and outpatient care costs, resulting in budget neutrality against SoC.
Elevational and local climate variability predicts thermal breadth of mountain tropical tadpoles
Authors: Pintanel Pol , Tejedo Miguel , Merino‐Viteri Andrés , Almeida‐Reinoso Freddy , Salinas‐Ivanenko Sofia , López‐Rosero Andrea C. , Llorente Gustavo A. , Gutiérrez‐Pesquera Luis M.
Published: April 2022

The climate variability hypothesis posits that increased environmental thermal variation should select for thermal generalists, while stable environments should favor thermal specialists. This hypothesis has been tested on large spatial scales, such as latitude and elevation, but less so on smaller scales reflective of the experienced microclimate. Here, we estimated thermal tolerance limits of 75 species of amphibian tadpoles from an aseasonal tropical mountain range of the Ecuadorian Andes, distributed along a 3500 m elevational range, to test the climatic variability hypothesis at a large (elevation) and a small (microhabitat) scale. We show how species from less variable thermal habitats, such as lowlands and those restricted to streams, exhibit narrower thermal tolerance breadths than highland and pond‐dwelling species respectively. Interestingly, while broader thermal tolerance breadths at large scales are driven by higher cold tolerance variation (heat‐invariant hypothesis), at local scales they are driven by higher heat tolerance variation. This contrasting pattern may result from divergent selection on both thermal limits to face environmental thermal extremes at different scales. Specifically, within the same elevational window, exposure to extreme maximum temperatures could be avoided through habitat shifts from temporary ponds to permanent ponds or streams, while minimum peak temperatures remained invariable between habitats but steadily decreased with elevation. Therefore an understanding of the effects of habitat conversion is crucial for future research on resilience to climate change.
On the Power of the Concept of Responsibility
Authors: Kuhlmann Nele
Published: April 2022

The concept of responsibility is both omnipresent and highly ambivalent in the field of education. On the one hand, the term is considered to be one of the key concepts of pedagogical ethics, intended to enable a reflection on pedagogical authority. On the other hand, it is inextricably linked to the concept of accountability, which, in fact, tends to obscure important ethical issues in education. In this paper, Nele Kuhlmann aims to illustrate that these two dimensions of the concept of responsibility are inseparably rooted in its conceptual history and that it is only through this interplay that the term could become such an influential and powerful concept. By pointing out the ambiguous character of “responsibility” in the German field of educational theory and politics, Kuhlmann attempts to open up an epistemological space for thinking beyond the notion of responsibility in terms of sovereignty and accountability.
More important than ever: understanding how plants cope with stress
Authors: Macheroux Peter
Published: April 2022

In view of the unprecedented rate of current climate change, plants are exposed to an avalanche of adverse environmental conditions that will challenge their ability to cope with abiotic and biotic stresses. These changes are bound to affect crop plants as well, and thus, have the potential to jeopardize food security on a global scale. Hence, it will be critical to understand the molecular defence and adaptation mechanisms that enable plants to thrive in an increasingly hostile environment. In this Subject Collection, The FEBS Journal presents a collection of reviews and original articles dealing with aspects of plant defence systems and mechanisms of pathogenicity.
Estimation of cyclic hardening/softening and ratcheting response of materials through an algorithm to optimize parameters in Chaboche's hardening rule
Authors: Nath Atri , Barai Sudhirkumar V. , Ray Kalyan Kumar
Published: April 2022

A methodology considering Chaboche's isotropic‐kinematic hardening (CIKH) model and genetic algorithm optimization technique is examined here to simulate the cyclic‐plastic response for materials exhibiting cyclic hardening or softening behavior. The aim of the present report is to illustrate the inherent potential of this approach by assessing the closeness of fit of the obtained predictions to the experimental results for several materials like Z2CND18.12N, and 25CDV4.11 steels, OFHC copper, and INCONEL718 alloy. The obtained results were further subjected to comparative examinations with the available predictions to demonstrate the adoptability of the suggested methodology for the cyclic hardening or softening materials. This proposed approach provides a single set of CIKH model parameters to replicate the stabilized hysteresis loops and cyclic hardening or softening behavior under symmetric strain‐controlled loading, as well as ratcheting characteristics under asymmetric stress‐controlled cycling, and is thus generalized in nature.
Narratives of digital sovereignty in German political discourse
Authors: Lambach Daniel , Oppermann Kai
Published: April 2022

Digital sovereignty has become a prominent concept in European digital policy, and Germany stands out as its leading advocate in Europe. How digital sovereignty is being understood in German politics is therefore highly relevant for broader policy debates on the European level. This motivates the main objective of the article to map out the different meanings that are attributed to digital sovereignty in German political discourse. Specifically, the article adopts a narrative framework to reconstruct the narratives through which these meanings are constructed. The analysis identifies seven different but overlapping narratives of digital sovereignty in the German discourse that serve to promote partly contradictory political agendas. We argue that this diversity is not a bug, but a feature. Specifically, it supports rich internarrative linkages which benefit the broader resonance of each individual narrative. It also enables a broad set of political actors to enlist digital sovereignty for their specific priorities.
A patient‐led, peer‐to‐peer qualitative study on the psychosocial relationship between young adults with inflammatory bowel disease and food
Authors: Rines Jenna , Daley Kim , Loo Sunny , Safari Kwestan , Walsh Deirdre , Gill Marlyn , Moayyedi Paul , Fernandes Aida , Marlett Nancy , Marshall Deborah
Published: April 2022

Background

Inflammatory bowel diseases (IBDs) are chronic gastrointestinal diseases that negatively affect the enjoyment of food and engagement in social and cultural gatherings. Such experiences may promote psychosocial challenges, an aspect of IBD often overlooked and under‐supported in clinical settings and research.

Objectives

This study explored the psychosocial experiences that young adults with IBD have with food via a qualitative patient‐led research process.

Methods

Trained patient researchers conducted this study by engaging peers via semi‐structured interviews and focus groups in a three‐step co‐design process. Participants (n = 9) identified the research topic (SET), explored the topic and identified emerging themes (COLLECT), refined themes and made recommendations for healthcare system change (REFLECT).

Results

Themes that emerged included: ‘Experimenting with Food’, ‘Evolution Over Time’, ‘Diet Changes are Emotional’ and ‘Role of Stigma’. Participants identified the significance and frustrations of repeated testing and experimenting with food compatibility, and noted nuances in food relationships as they gain knowledge and experience over time. They emphasized the importance of maintaining a sense of hope throughout and wished to impart this to newly diagnosed patients.

Conclusion

Participants experience numerous psychosocial challenges as they strive to manage their diet, noting gaps in support available from IBD practitioners. Participants made practical recommendations for healthcare system change to improve patient outcomes, highlighting the importance of sharing stories and collaboratively including patients in the development of new services and protocols. Authors recommend further research in this area to build a body of knowledge and support that helps IBD patients maintain hope while navigating challenges with food.

Patient or Public Contribution

The first four authors on this paper were the lead researchers in this study's design and analysis and identify as patients; they conducted the research with this identity at the forefront following a peer‐to‐peer research model. These authors were mentored by patient researchers who also contributed to the manuscript, and the research process itself was co‐lead and directed by other patient participants and consultants. Results and recommendations coming from this paper came directly from patient participants.
Human–machine trans roles conflict in the organization: How sensitive are customers to intelligent robots replacing the human workforce?
Authors: Modliński Artur , Fortuna Paweł , Rożnowski Bohdan
Published: April 2022

In organizations facing digital transformation, intelligent technologies are starting to replace the human workforce. At present, managers delegate tasks to an artificial agent and rarely consider the customer reception of such decisions. This arouses tensions between the main stakeholders of the organization. This paper shows that the rash adaptation of the digital workforce may be perceived as an irresponsible innovation that brings negative consequences for companies. If a task is regarded by customers as dedicated to humans, and managers delegate it to machines, a new type of conflict – human‐machine trans roles conflict (HMTRC), appears. This paper intends to show that customers are sensitive to HMTRC. This research uses quantitative methods and consists of three stages. First, people were asked to indicate which tasks in an organization should be performed by (a) humans and (b) machines. According to these results, two leaflets for customers were designed (low vs. high HMTRC). In the second stage, standard procedures were used to construct a scale measuring customer reactions to HMTRC on three dimensions: cognitive, emotional and behavioural. Ultimately, the scale and two leaflets were used to check how customers react to different intensities of HMTRC. The research results show that customers are aware when HMTRC occurs and perceive it negatively (cognitive response). Moreover, it evokes negative emotions (emotional response) and prompts customers to take action against the company in which this conflict takes place (behavioural response). The practical contribution of this research is the three‐dimensional scale. It may predict customers' reactions to task delegation with different intensities of HMTRC and help build a technologically sustainable organization.
Real‐world opioid prescription to patients with serious, non‐malignant, respiratory illnesses and chronic breathlessness
Authors: Chen Xinye , Moran Thomas , Smallwood Natasha
Published: April 2022

Background

Chronic breathlessness is a disabling symptom that is often under‐recognised and challenging to treat despite optimal disease‐directed therapy. Low‐dose, oral opioids are recommended to relieve breathlessness, but little is known regarding long‐term opioid prescription in this setting.

Aim

To investigate the long‐term efficacy of, and side‐effects from, opioids prescribed for chronic breathlessness to patients with advanced, non‐malignant, respiratory diseases.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of all patients managed by the advanced lung disease service, an integrated respiratory and palliative care service, at the Royal Melbourne Hospital from 1 April 2013 to 3 March 2020.

Results

One hundred and nine patients were prescribed opioids for chronic breathlessness. The median length of opioid use was 9.8 (interquartile range (IQR) = 2.8–19.8) months. The most commonly prescribed initial regimen was an immediate‐release preparation (i.e. Ordine) used as required (37; 33.9%). For long‐term treatment, the most frequently prescribed regimen included an extended‐release preparation with an as needed immediate‐release (37; 33.9%). The median dose prescribed was 12 (IQR = 8–28) mg oral morphine equivalents/day. Seventy‐one (65.1%) patients reported a subjective improvement in breathlessness. There was no significant change in the mean modified Medical Research Council dyspnoea score (P = 0.807) or lung function measurements (P = 0.086–0.727). There was no association between mortality and the median duration of opioid use (P = 0.201) or dose consumed (P = 0.130). No major adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

Within this integrated respiratory and palliative care service, patients with severe, non‐malignant respiratory diseases safely used long‐term, low‐dose opioids for breathlessness with subjective benefits reported and no serious adverse events.
Enhanced mechanical and tribological properties of oscillatory pressure sintered WC–GNPs composites
Authors: Cheng Yong , Zhu Tianbin , Yang Yifan , Li Yawei , Xie Zhipeng , Liao Ning , Liang Xiong , Sang Shaobai , Dai Jinning
Published: April 2022

It remains as a challenge to develop binderless WC ceramics that integrate high mechanical properties and low friction wear. Here, we report the preparation of strong and tough WC ceramics with low wear rate by adding graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) and using oscillatory pressure sintering (OPS) process. The introduced GNPs lead to the formation of nearly fully dense composites with the aid of an oscillatory pressure. The OPS‐prepared WC–0.3‐wt% GNPs composites reached a high flexural strength, hardness, and fracture toughness, being up to 1420 MPa, 24.9 GPa, and 6.89 MPa m1/2, respectively. Moreover, a low friction wear rate of 3.17 × 10−7 mm3 N−1 m−1 is achieved for such composites, which can be ascribed to the formation of a friction lubrication film during dry sliding friction process and their higher mechanical properties.
Men's help‐seeking and engagement with general practice: An integrative review
Authors: Mursa Ruth , Patterson Christopher , Halcomb Elizabeth
Published: April 2022

Aim

To critically synthesize the literature that describes men's help‐seeking and engagement with general practice.

Design

Integrative literature review.

Data sources

CINAHL plus, Medline and APA PsycInfo were searched for papers published between 1999 and March 2021.

Review methods

After screening titles and abstracts, full‐text papers were screened against inclusion / exclusion criteria. All included papers were assessed for methodological quality. Findings were extracted, critically examined and synthesized into themes.

Results

Twenty studies met the inclusion criteria. Thematic analysis revealed four themes related to; (1) structural barriers, (2) internal barriers, (3) men's understanding of the role of general practice, and (4) self‐care and help‐seeking. The findings indicate that men can find general practice unwelcoming and unaccommodating. Men can also experience psychological barriers that impact engagement and help‐seeking. Men predominantly view general practice as a source of acute health care and do not appreciate the role of general practice in preventive health care and advice.

Conclusion

This review has provided insight into the issues around the barriers to health care engagement, men's understanding of the role of general practice and their associated help‐seeking. Seeking to further understand these issues could assist in the development of strategies to promote engagement of men with general practice health care.

Impact

This review highlights research about men's engagement with general practice and the missed opportunities in receiving preventive health care and education.

Enhancing men's engagement with general practice has the potential to reduce the impact of their health on quality of life and improve health outcomes.
Psychometrics and measurement invariance: Health Literacy Scale for Vietnamese and Indonesian married immigrants
Authors: Kuo Shu‐Fen , Yeh Yueh‐Chen , Chang Chia‐Chi , Lin Yu‐Fang , Wang Shu‐Yi
Published: April 2022

Aims

To examine the psychometrics and measurement invariance of the Short‐Form Health Literacy 12‐item questionnaire (HL‐SF12) among Vietnamese and Indonesian married immigrants.

Design

A cross‐sectional survey design.

Methods

In total, 1171 Vietnamese and Indonesian married immigrants were enrolled between September 2019 and December 2019. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) were used to verify the structural validity of the suggested factor structure. The multiple‐group CFA (MGCFA) used a series of hierarchical nested‐in models as a measurement invariance test which confirmed the adequacy of the model fit at each stage.

Results/Findings

The Kaiser–Meyer–Olkin coefficient was 0.898, and the Bartlett test of sphericity was statistically significant (χ2[66] = 1965.97, p < 0.01). According to a scree plot and Kaiser's criterion for eigenvalues of >1, the EFA explained 61.6% of the total variance and confirmed three theoretically supported factors of health care, disease prevention and health promotion. The 12 items showed factor loadings of >0.4 and four items were in each subscale. The CFA showed adequate structural validity, including a relative chi‐squared/degrees of freedom (X2/df) of 2.01, a comparative fit index (CFI) of 0.98 and a root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA) of 0.04 (95% confidence interval [0.03, 0.05]) in married immigrants. For the measurement invariance, a change in the goodness‐of‐fit measures did not exceed 0.02 for the RMSEA or 0.01 for the CFI. The results indicated Cronbach's α values of 0.87 for the HL‐SF12 scale in Vietnamese and Indonesian combined samples (n = 1171). A t‐test showed that the HL‐SF12 and its three subscales were unable to significantly differentiate between Vietnamese and Indonesian groups (all p > 0.05).

Conclusions

The HL‐SF12 scale showed acceptable theoretically supported structural validity, equivalent measurement invariance and reliable internal consistency among Vietnamese and Indonesian married immigrants. Measurements of immigrants' HL using the HL‐SF12 could be integrated into future immigrant health policies.

Impact

As the first study of the measurement invariance of the HL‐SF12 instrument among immigrants. Related factors of immigrants' HL can be further explored to increase immigrants' health and empowerment.
Psychotropic drugs intake in people aging with intellectual disability: Prevalence and predictors
Authors: García‐Domínguez Laura , Navas Patricia , Verdugo Miguel Ángel , Arias Víctor B. , Gómez Laura E.
Published: April 2022

Background

Psychotropic medication is frequently administered to people with intellectual disability with mental health and/or behavioural problems, instead of other non‐pharmacological interventions. This study describes the mental health and behavioural problems of people aging with intellectual disability, their psychotropic medication intake, and the factors contributing to a greater medication intake.

Method

The sample consisted of 991 people with intellectual disability over 45 years. Descriptive statistics and multinominal logistic regression were carried out.

Results

Antipsychotics were the most used psychotropic drug. Older people with mild intellectual disability living in institutions and affected by mental health and behavioural problems were more likely to take larger amounts of psychotropic medication.

Conclusions

Antipsychotics continue to be widely used by people with intellectual disability and mental and behavioural health problems, especially those in institutionalised settings. Future research should consider if medication intake could be reduced providing better supports in the community and non‐pharmacological interventions.
Global patterns and drivers of beta diversity facets of reef fish faunas
Authors: Maxwell Melina F. , Leprieur Fabien , Quimbayo Juan P. , Floeter Sergio R. , Bender Mariana G.
Published: April 2022

Aim

Exploring the relationships between the different facets of beta diversity and both past and current environmental conditions can unveil the processes that have shaped spatial patterns of biodiversity. In the marine realm, large‐scale patterns and processes of beta diversity have been less investigated. Our study aimed to investigate the patterns and drivers of multiple facets of beta diversity and its components, contrasting pairs of reef fish assemblages among marine realms.

Location

Tropical reefs.

Taxon

Reef fishes.

Methods

Based on trait data and phylogenetic relationships for 5182 tropical reef fish species, we calculated compositional differences between pairs of reef fish assemblages across the Atlantic, the Tropical Eastern Pacific (TEP) and the Indo‐Pacific realms. We also applied a partitioning approach to distinguish between the turnover and nestedness components. We then evaluated the relative importance of several variables related to historical and contemporary environmental conditions in shaping spatial patterns of beta diversity using Constrained Analysis of Principal coordinates (CAP) models.

Results

Both the turnover and the nestedness components contributed to total phylogenetic and taxonomic beta diversity in the TEP and Indo‐Pacific realms, while the turnover component was found to be more important in the Atlantic realm. In contrast, total trait beta diversity displayed very low values and was primarily explained by the nestedness component. Taxonomic and phylogenetic differences in the composition of tropical reef fish assemblages were influenced by both historical and contemporary factors or solely by historical variables.

Main conclusions

Our results suggest that past climate changes and historical contingency left an imprint in the present‐day composition of tropical reef fish assemblages. The very low levels of trait beta diversity indicate that reef fish assemblages display similar trait composition even among geographically distant assemblages with contrasting evolutionary histories, which may result from environmental filtering or evolutionary convergence, or the combination of both processes.
Phylogenomic dating and Bayesian biogeography illuminate an antitropical pattern for eucerine bees
Authors: Freitas Felipe V. , Branstetter Michael G. , Casali Daniel M. , Aguiar Antonio J. C. , Griswold Terry , Almeida Eduardo A. B.
Published: April 2022

Aim

An antitropical pattern is characterized by the occurrence of closely related taxa south and north of the tropics but absent or uncommonly represented closer to the equator, in contrast to most taxa, which tend to have their highest diversity in the tropical regions. We investigate the antitropical distribution of eucerine bees with the aim of contributing to the characterization and understanding of this pattern.

Location

All continents except Antarctica and Australia.

Taxon

Eucerine bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae: Eucerinae).

Methods

We carried out phylogenomic dating under two different clock models and used multiple strategies to vary matrix composition, evaluating the overlapping of divergence times estimated across models using Bhattacharyya coefficients. Lastly, we reconstructed the biogeographic history of eucerine bees using a Bayesian implementation of the DEC model.

Results

Eucerinae is estimated to have started diversifying during the Palaeocene, with all its tribes originating during the Palaeocene/Eocene transition in southern South America. At least two range expansions happened into North America before the full closure of the Isthmus of Panama. We show that divergence between closely related groups with disjunct distributions would have happened in periods when the climate favoured the expansion of open habitats and became isolated when the forests were re‐established.

Main conclusions

We describe the early diversification of eucerine bees, revealing an intimate association with southern South America. Events of range evolution of Eucerinae were likely affected by periods of global cooling and aridification, and palaeoclimatic and vegetational conditions probably have been more relevant to the formation of the antitropical distribution of Eucerinae than the consolidation of the Isthmus of Panama connecting the Americas. We also demonstrate that most uncertainty in divergence time estimation is not due to the amount of molecular data being used, but more likely other factors like fossil calibrations and violations of clock models.
Sectoral Governance under the EU's Bilateral Agreements and the Limits of Joint Institutional Frameworks: Insights from EU‐Swiss Bilateralism for Post‐Brexit Relations with the UK
Authors: Eckert Sandra
Published: April 2022

Joint Institutional Frameworks governing the EU's relations with third countries often fail to address important issues of sectoral governance. Non‐EU countries benefit from access to EU sectoral bodies, but this is limited, and alternative avenues of co‐operation are therefore needed. This article contributes to existing research on EU bilateral relations, which has thus far not paid sufficient attention to the external face of sectoral governance. The qualitative case comparison studies the well‐established, yet increasingly politicized bilateral co‐operation with Switzerland in order to draw insights for UK–EU relations, and contrasts two strategically important areas of market integration, namely electricity and financial markets. The findings show that politicization and (external) disintegration have repercussions for allegedly ‘technical’ areas of co‐operation where formalized requirements for EU sectoral bodies, public and private, become more stringent and less permissive to accommodate informal modes of co‐operation that in the past facilitated external participation.
‘Bigger’ after all? The Effect of Structural Policy Coordination Authorities on the Multidimensionality of Policy Output
Authors: Ophey Kristina , Schwalbach Jan
Published: April 2022

To be ‘bigger on big things’, Jean‐Claude Juncker reformed the European Commission's organizational set‐up by adding another hierarchical layer to its political sphere. Vice‐Presidents shall foster coordination between departmental Commissioners when drafting policies so that these are more multidimensional in kind. Taking an actor‐centred organization theoretical perspective, complemented by principal–agent reasoning, we conceptualize these as structural policy coordination authorities. We hypothesize that this organizational manipulation to a core executive's typical multidivisional set‐up incentivizes silo‐focused actors to coordinate more across policy sectors. Hence, the coordination dilemma that typically confronts core executives might be counteracted, resulting in more multidimensional policy output. Constituting a ‘case in time’, we assess whether Commission policy output has changed systematically after the Juncker reform. Using newly developed indicators for policy multidimensionality, we evaluate all legislative proposals developed under the Juncker and Barroso II Commissions. We find that proposals under Juncker are indeed ‘bigger’ than before.
Applications of maxillary tuberosity block autograft
Authors: Zufía Juan , Abella Sans Francesc
Published: April 2022

Objective

Autogenous bone grafts are considered the gold standard due to their compatibility and osteogenic potential to induce new bone formation through osteogenesis, osteoinduction, and osteoconduction. The aim of this paper was to describe clinical applications of the maxillary tuberosity block autograft in small and moderate localized defects of the alveolar process around implants and teeth.

Clinical Considerations

Maxillary tuberosity is often used as a particulate graft for augmentation of deficient alveolar ridge or maxillary sinus prior to or simultaneously with implant insertion, but not as a bone block graft. The maxillary tuberosity block autograft may also provide a valuable bone source for challenging situations such as immediate implant placement into types II and III extraction sockets, treatment of horizontal and vertical bone defects with simultaneous implantation, reconstruction of circumferential defects around implants, and preservation of alveolar ridge.

Conclusions

The advantages of the maxillary tuberosity include intraoral corticocancellous autogenous graft with fewer intraoperative difficulties, no need for donor site restoration, less morbidity, and an excellent correction of localized alveolar ridge defects.

Clinical Significance

Within the limitations of the presented case reports, the use of maxillary tuberosity block autograft has shown to be successful in alveolar ridges augmentation that lack both width and height.
Preopening price indications and market quality: Evidence from NYSE Rule 48
Authors: Chung Kee H. , Chuwonganant Chairat , Kim Youngsoo
Published: April 2022

In this article, we explore the role of preopening price signals in price discovery and liquidity. NYSE Rule 48 suspends the responsibility of designated market makers for disseminating preopening price indications in the event of extreme marketwide volatility. Rule 48 speeds up the opening of stocks at the expense of lower liquidity. The absence of preopening price indications results in reduced liquidity during the first 30 min of the trading day. We interpret this finding as evidence that liquidity suppliers are less willing to provide liquidity in the absence of a reference point or benchmark regarding stock value.
Investment horizon for private‐value assets: Evidence from the art market
Authors: Nozari Milad
Published: April 2022

Over the past two decades, the idea of purchasing art as an asset class has attracted many collectors with investment goals to the art market. I examine how collectors trade art by focusing on their investment horizons. Controlling for quality and market conditions, I show that collectors' personal tastes and uncertainty in valuation could affect how long they keep their artwork. I also find that specific characteristics of artwork or artists are determinants of investment horizons. The natural conclusion of the findings is that artwork with high common market value is traded more frequently, whereas higher personal valuation can lead to longer duration ownership.
Medical nutrition therapy for gestational diabetes mellitus in Australia: What has changed in 10 years and how does current practice compare with best practice?
Authors: Barnes Robyn A. , Morrison Melinda , Flack Jeff R. , Ross Glynis P. , Smart Carmel E. , Collins Clare E. , MacDonald‐Wicks Lesley
Published: April 2022

Background

The present study aimed to report Australian dietetic practice regarding management of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) and to make comparisons with the findings from a 2009 survey of dietitians and with the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics Evidence‐Based Nutrition Practice Guidelines (NPG).

Methods

Cross‐sectional surveys were conducted in 2019 and 2009 of dietitians providing medical nutrition therapy (MNT) to women with GDM in Australia. The present study compares responses on demographics, dietetic assessment and interventions, and guideline use in 2019 vs. 2009.

Results

In total, 149 dietitians (2019) and 220 (2009) met survey inclusion criteria. In both surveys >60% of respondents reported dietary interventions aiming for >45% energy from carbohydrate, 15%–25% energy from protein and 15%–30% energy from fat. Many variations in MNT found in 2009 continued to be evident in 2019, including the percentage of energy from carbohydrate aimed for (30%–65% in 2019 vs. 20%–75% in 2009) and the wide range in the recommended minimum daily carbohydrate intake (40–220 and 60–300 g). Few dietitians reported aiming for the NPG minimum of 175 g of carbohydrate daily in both surveys (32% in 2019 vs. 26% in 2009). There were, however, some significant increases in MNT consistent with NPG recommendations in 2019 vs. 2009, including the minimum frequency of visits provided (49%, n = 61 vs. 33%, n = 69; p < 0.001) and provision of gestational weight gain advice (59%, n = 95 vs. 40%, n = 195; p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Although many dietitians continue to provide MNT consistent with existing NPG, there is a need to support greater uptake, especially for recommendations regarding carbohydrate intake.
Prospectively assessing serum neurofilament light chain levels as a biomarker of paclitaxel‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity in breast cancer patients
Authors: Karteri Sofia , Bruna Jordi , Argyriou Andreas A. , Mariotto Sara , Velasco Roser , Alemany Montse , Kalofonou Foteini , Alberti Paola , Dinoto Alessandro , Velissaris Dimitrios , Stradella Agostina , Cavaletti Guido , Ferrari Sergio , Kalofonos Haralabos P.
Published: April 2022

Our aim was to assess the significance of measuring serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) levels as a biomarker of paclitaxel‐induced peripheral neurotoxicity (PIPN). We longitudinally measured sNfL in breast cancer patients, scheduled to receive the 12‐weekly paclitaxel‐based regimen. Patients were clinically examined by means of the Total Neuropathy Score‐clinical version (TNSc), while sNfL were quantified, using the highly sensitive Simoa technique, before starting chemotherapy (baseline), after 2 (week 2) and 3 (week 3) weekly courses, and at the end of chemotherapy (week 12). Among 59 included patients (mean age: 53.1 ± 11.5 years), 33 (56%) developed grade 0‐1 and 26 (44%) grade 2‐3 PIPN at week 12. A significant longitudinal increase of sNfL levels from baseline to week‐12 was determined, whereas patients with TNSc grade 2‐3 PIPN had significantly increased sNfL levels at week 12, compared to those with grade 0‐1. receiver‐operated characteristics (ROC) analysis defined a value of NfL of >85 pg/mL at week 3 as the best discriminative determination to predict the development of grade 2‐3 PIPN at week 12 (sensitivity 46.2%, specificity 84.8%). The logistic binary regression analysis revealed that age > 50 years and the cutoff of >85 pg/mL of sNfL levels at week 3 independently predicted the development of grade 2‐3 PIPN at week 12 with a sensitivity of 46%, a specificity of 91%, and a positive and negative predictive values of 75% and 67%, respectively. sNfL levels seem to be a valuable biomarker of neuro‐axonal injury in PIPN. An early increase of this biomarker after a 3‐weekly chemotherapy course can be a predictive marker of final PIPN severity.
Combination of platelet‐rich plasma and platelet gel in treatment of resistance androgenic alopecia: A case series study
Authors: Lotfi Elaheh , Aramianpour Najmeh , Salehi Bahareh
Published: April 2022

Background

Androgenic alopecia is a common genetic disorder that characterized by progressive hair follicles and hair atrophy. Despite all available therapeutic techniques, there is low patient satisfaction rate. It seems finding new treatment options for androgenic alopecia is necessary. In the past decade, platelet‐rich plasma (PRP), an autologous collection of concentrated platelets with hemostatic and tissue repairing effects, has received developing attention for androgenetic alopecia treatment as a valuable therapeutic technique.

Methods

In this study, 8 patients suffering from resistance androgenic alopecia were enrolled. The PRP and platelet gel were prepared, and a total volume of 10 cc of the combination of PRP and platelet gel were injected in the scalp androgen‐related areas using 23‐gauge syringe. The treatment was performed one month and 3 months after first injection (three times). The hair pull test was done before treatment. The outcome was evaluated 3, 6, and 9 months after treatment by hair pull test, dermoscopy, photography, and patient's satisfaction.

Results

A significant reduction in hair loss was observed before and after treatment. Hair count (density) increased from average number of 72 (hair/cm2) to 210 hair/cm2). Also, the hair diameter was significantly increased before and after treatment for all patients (p < 0.05). After the treatment, the pull test was significantly decreased in 8 patients (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study supports the combination therapy of PRP and platelet gel for resistance androgenic alopecia treatment. This technique is an uncomplicated, feasible, and cost‐effective treatment option for resistance androgenic alopecia, with high patient satisfaction.
Efficacy of probiotic‐derived lotion from Lactobacillus paracasei MSMC 39‐1 in mild to moderate acne vulgaris, randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sathikulpakdee Sunattha , Kanokrungsee Silada , Vitheejongjaroen Porntipha , Kamanamool Nanticha , Udompataikul Montree , Taweechotipatr Malai
Published: April 2022

Background

Probiotics provide benefits for reducing acne. Previous studies showed an anti‐inflammatory effect of Lactobacillus paracasei. However, the clinical evidence of topical probiotic lotion and acne treatment is still lacking.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of probiotic‐derived lotion compared with 2.5% benzoyl peroxide in the treatment of mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris.

Methods

Topical probiotic‐derived lotion was formulated from cell‐free supernatant of L. paracasei MSMC 39‐1. In vitro study showed the ability of the supernatant to inhibit both antibiotic‐resistance and‐susceptibility strains of C. acnes and inhibit tumor necrosis factor‐α. The patients with mild‐to‐moderate acne vulgaris on the face were randomized to receive topical probiotic‐derived lotion or 2.5% benzoyl peroxide. Acne lesion counts, erythema index, and side effects were assessed after 2 and 4 weeks of treatment.

Results

One hundred and four acne vulgaris patients were enrolled. After four weeks of treatment, the inflammatory acne lesion counts and erythema index significantly decreased compared with the baseline in both the probiotic‐derived lotion group and 2.5% benzoyl peroxide group (p < 0.001 in both groups) without statistically significant difference between the two groups (p > 0.05). However, the comedones were not affected in both groups. Four patients (7.69%) treated with probiotic‐derived lotion and 14 patients (26.92%) treated with 2.5% benzoyl peroxide reported treatment‐associated side effects.

Conclusion

Probiotic‐derived lotion is safe and effective for treating mild to moderate acne vulgaris, a comparable outcome with 2.5% benzoyl peroxide. It could be an alternative treatment of acne with more minor side effects.
Interactions between children, parents and nurses during postoperative pain management: A grounded theory study
Authors: Bakir Ebru , Briggs Michelle , Mackintosh‐Franklin Carolyn , Marshall Marie
Published: April 2022

Aim

To explore the interactions between children, parents and nurses during postoperative pain management.

Background

Despite the growing evidence relating to postoperative pain management in children and relevant practice guidelines, children still experience moderate to severe pain after surgery. One factor could be related to the relatively unexplored child–parent–nurse interaction.

Design

A qualitative constructivist grounded theory methodology.

Methods

Data were collected from a paediatric hospital in the United Kingdom. Ten children aged between 6 and 11 years old who had undergone surgery, 11 parents and 10 nurses participated. Methods included face‐to‐face semi‐structured interviews. Data were analysed using constant comparison technique, memos and constructivist grounded theory coding levels. The COREQ guidelines were followed for reporting.

Findings

Three concepts emerged from data, “Parents as a communicator for child‐nurse interaction”, “Parents’ emotional turmoil in child‐nurse interaction”, and “Parents’ actions in child‐nurse interaction” which constructed the substantive theory of child–parent–nurse interaction during postoperative pain management: “Facilitating or Inhibiting Interactions: Parental Influence on Postoperative Pain Management”. The findings highlight an absence of a three‐way interaction between children, parents and nurses and a dyadic interaction process between children and nurses was not apparent. Instead, child–parent–nurse interactions were constructed around two dyads of child–parent and parent–nurse interactions with child–nurse interaction constructed via parents. Parents, as a communicator, influenced the entire postoperative pain management processes between children, parents and nurses by facilitating or inhibiting the interaction processes.

Conclusions

This study identifies potentially important evidence about the unique position parents hold between their child and nurses as a central pivotal communicator during children’s postoperative pain management.

Relevance to clinical practices

This study may help to explain how and why postoperative pain management remains suboptimal. The substantive theory could support improvements in the management of postoperative pain through a much wider recognition of parents’ central pivotal communicator role and the complexity of these child–nurse interactions.
Variations in end‐of‐life care practices in older critically ill patients with COVID‐19 in Europe
Authors: Wernly Bernhard , Rezar Richard , Flaatten Hans , Beil Michael , Fjølner Jesper , Bruno Raphael R. , Artigas Antonio , Pinto Bernardo B. , Schefold Joerg C. , Kelm Malte , Sigal Sviri , van Heerden Peter V. , Szczeklik Wojciech , Elhadi Muhammed , Joannidis Michael , Oeyen Sandra , Wolff Georg , Marsh Brian , Andersen Finn H. , Moreno Rui , Leaver Susannah , Wernly Sarah , Boumendil Ariane , De Lange Dylan W. , Guidet Bertrand , Jung Christian ,   COVIP study group
Published: April 2022

Background

Previous studies reported regional differences in end‐of‐life care (EoLC) for critically ill patients in Europe.

Objectives

The purpose of this post‐hoc analysis of the prospective multicentre COVIP study was to investigate variations in EoLC practices among older patients in intensive care units during the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic.

Methods

A total of 3105 critically ill patients aged 70 years and older were enrolled in this study (Central Europe: n = 1573; Northern Europe: n = 821; Southern Europe: n = 711). Generalised estimation equations were used to calculate adjusted odds ratios (aORs) to population averages. Data were adjusted for patient‐specific variables (demographic, disease‐specific) and health economic data (gross domestic product, health expenditure per capita). The primary outcome was any treatment limitation, and 90‐day mortality was a secondary outcome.

Results

The frequency of the primary endpoint (treatment limitation) was highest in Northern Europe (48%), intermediate in Central Europe (39%) and lowest in Southern Europe (24%). The likelihood for treatment limitations was lower in Southern than in Central Europe (aOR 0.39; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.21–0.73; p = 0.004), even after multivariable adjustment, whereas no statistically significant differences were observed between Northern and Central Europe (aOR 0.57; 95%CI 0.27–1.22; p = 0.15). After multivariable adjustment, no statistically relevant mortality differences were found between Northern and Central Europe (aOR 1.29; 95%CI 0.80–2.09; p = 0.30) or between Southern and Central Europe (aOR 1.07; 95%CI 0.66–1.73; p = 0.78).

Conclusion

This study shows a north‐to‐south gradient in rates of treatment limitation in Europe, highlighting the heterogeneity of EoLC practices across countries. However, mortality rates were not affected by these results.
“Be Kind But Not Too Kind”: Black Males' Prosocial Behaviors in the Face of Dehumanization
Authors: Harris Johari , Kruger Ann Cale
Published: April 2022

This qualitative study examined how adolescent Black males (N = 12) talk about their identities, prosocial behaviors, and connections between them. Of special interest was whether and how the participants included their experiences of dehumanization. Focus group data were analyzed using modified analytic induction. Participants felt good about their racially gendered identities but felt they occupied a precarious position in the United States. Participants’ beliefs about how others viewed them motivated restraint from engaging in too many prosocial acts to prevent appearing vulnerable. Participants explicitly referred to their experience of oppression in these discussions and its interaction with identity and prosociality. Results suggest research must consider how macro‐level processes like racism influence the identities and prosocial behaviors of adolescent Black males.
Mobilizing and Delivering Essential Meals to Children and Families Affected by School Closures During COVID‐19 and Beyond
Authors: Ryan Benjamin J. , Telford Victoria , Brickhouse Mark , Campbell Jacqueline , Crowe Connor , Fink Rok , Hatch Kristy , Hatch Tim , Jones Reiley , Cruz Andrea S. , Allen Cara , Krey Kathy , Everett Jeremy , Kanitz Lori A. , Brooks Bryan W.
Published: April 2022

BACKGROUND

The closure of schools in response to COVID‐19 compromised access to essential meals for many students. The Emergency Meals‐to‐You program, a public/private partnership, was set up to address this challenge. More than 38.7 million meals were delivered between April and August 2020. This study explores lessons learned and identifies strategies for strengthening food access and security at schools and beyond.

METHODS

Qualitative research methods were used. This included interviews and focus groups with participants involved in setting up and delivering the Emergency Meals‐to‐You program. Data were thematically analyzed using key phrases, ideas, and concepts, and interpreted.

RESULTS

The program leveraged a multisectoral approach. Components relied on each other and included: schools, public/private partnership, eligibility, relationships, experience, centralized communication, food quality and branding, logistics, and transport. Strategies identified to strengthen food access focused on integration with emergency management structures, understanding food needs at the school level, building a fully procurable menu, and allowing distribution to be rapidly scaled.

CONCLUSIONS

The lessons identified and strategies recommended provide a framework for working across the emergency management spectrum (school to national level) to strengthen food access and availability for students and their families affected by a pandemic, disaster, or crisis situation.