bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PhD students as boundary spanning agents: an exploration of student values, goals, and agency in the era of cross-sector permeation
Authors: Mars Matthew M. , Moravec Bryan G.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

Market forces and other external pressures have significantly transformed higher education over the past four decades. Research on the influence of cross-sector permeation on doctoral education has primarily focused on preparing and socializing students for academic careers that involve entrepreneurial activity. Conversely, PhD student agency involving cross-sector engagement and the pursuit of individual values and goals in ways that span the boundaries of academia have been overlooked. The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore how a sample of Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) students in Science, Technology, Mathematics and Engineering (STEM) programs recognized, made sense of and navigated cross-sector permeation relevant to their individual passions and commitments to climate change alleviation.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted an embedded case study that qualitatively explored how 16 STEM PhD students recognized, made sense of and navigated cross-sector permeation relevant to their individual values and goals and commitments to climate change alleviation. Data were collected through individual interviews that probed the participants’ engagement and agency in cross-sector permeation.

Findings

The authors identified three themes that frame the role of PhD students as boundary spanning agents. The themes involve students placing their values and goals over specific positions and career paths, aligning their values and goals with cross-sector conditions and creating opportunities through cross-sector engagement.

Practical implications

Recommendations are provided for fostering and enhancing the agency PhD students have over the pursuit of their individual values and goals and their engagement in boundary spanning activities and strategies.

Originality/value

Cross-sector permeation is framed relevant to PhD student agency and boundary spanning. The findings introduce the role of PhD students as boundary spanning agents who intentionally pursue their individual values and goals in ways that extend beyond traditional academic career pathways.
Luckin Coffee Inc.: brewing fraud
Authors: Mehta Anupam
Published: May 2022

Theoretical basis

This case is based on using the fraud triangle, theoretical aspects like rationalization and motivation for understanding the financial pressures and corporate greed lead to accounting fraud. Building on the corporate governance’s weakness, the case explores the challenges and the changes that the company has to make to survive.

Research methodology

The case study has been entirely based on published resources. The case explores out the reasons why the companies commit accounting fraud using the motivations, financial pressures and the opportunities exploited due to a weak governance system.

Case overview/synopsis

The case deals with a RMB 2.2bn accounting fraud at Luckin Coffee Inc. (L.K.), a US-listed Chinese company, which led to a steep fall in its share price by more than 80% in April 2020. The company’s CEO had to resign in light of the accounting fraud, which involved fabricating the transactions in 2019, the same year it got listed on the NASDAQ stock exchange. The case is a classic example of greed, corporate ambition and flaws in the corporate governance that led to the fraud while framing a course of action for the company moving forward. The case allows the learners to dive deep into the facts to find out why the fraud happened and its repercussions for the company and its various stakeholders. The case can be useful in Accounting, Corporate governance or Ethics modules for both undergraduate and postgraduate students.

Complexity academic level

The case can be used for both postgraduate and undergraduate financial accounting or corporate governance modules or the executive development programmes explicitly dealing with ethical challenges and accounting fraud.
‘Be prepared and give it a go!’ Transitions into further education for learners with additional learning needs
Authors: Packer Rhiannon , Abbinett Emily , Morris Emily
Published: May 2022

Transitions in education are known to have an impact on learners both in social and emotional terms as well as academically. This article argues that transition experiences should be regarded as an on‐going process rather than a one‐off event. The move from compulsory education at the age of 16 can have a significant impact on engagement and retention, particularly for learners with additional learning needs (ALN), yet this is an underexplored area. While the transition from compulsory education to a further education (FE) setting brings increased independence, new opportunities and the emergence of adulthood, it can also be a time of trepidation and uncertainty for all learners, including those with ALN. Using an interpretive methodology, the voices of key stakeholders in the transition to FE from one setting were recorded to explore and inform good practice. Data were gathered using online questionnaires, interviews and focus groups. Findings ascertained the value of nurturing effective practitioner–learner relationships in preparation for transition, the importance of developing peer support networks and the provision of a central, safe space that is accessible to learners with ALN at all times.
Non‐destructive analysis of hollow‐shaped single fibers using X‐ray computed tomography
Authors: Tadano Wataru , Takeuchi Masaru , Tanabe Eishi , Stellhorn Jens R. , Komaguchi Kenji , Nakamoto Akihiro , Honda Sadao , Hayakawa Shinjiro
Published: May 2022

A commercial high‐resolution X‐ray computed tomography (CT) was utilized for non‐destructive analysis of single fibers. The micro‐CT apparatus was employed because it is applicable to both colored and colorless fibers. A sample preparation using adhesive sheets was demonstrated, and the method is similar to typical tape‐lift sample collection method in crime cases. Different cross‐sectional shapes of nylon and polyester single fibers were non‐destructively distinguished, and the method is applicable to all types of fibers. Cross‐sectional areas, aperture ratios, and volumes of individual fibers were directly and automatically measured using the open‐source software. The observed parameters were within a coefficient of variation of 3%. In addition, a mass of a single fragment of a fiber can be estimated when the local density is given.
Point‐of‐use carbon‐block drinking water filters change gut microbiome of larval zebrafish
Authors: Wu Chia‐Chen , Connell Mackenzie , Zarb Audrey , Akemann Camille , Morgan Stephanie , McElmurry Shawn P. , Love Nancy G. , Baker Tracie R.
Published: May 2022

Activated carbon block (ACB) point‐of‐use (PoU) drinking water filters can change the bacterial composition in drinking water. Consuming ACB PoU filtered water may also influence gut microbiomes. This study uses the zebrafish model to evaluate how the ACB PoU filter affects the gut microbiomes and phenotypic responses in larvae and adulthood. An ACB PoU filter manifold system was constructed to feed larval and adult zebrafish tap and filtered water at the early and late stages of the filter operation period. Adult zebrafish gut microbiomes were not affected by exposure to water types and filter stages. Unlike the adult, gut microbiomes of the larvae exposed to filtered water at the late stage of filter operation were dominated by more filter‐relevant bacterial taxa, including Comamonadaceae and Brevundimonas, than the early stage‐filtered‐water‐ and tap water‐exposed larvae. We also found some fish that were either exposed to filtered water at early and late stages or tap water supplied to the filter toward the end of the experiment showed hyperactive locomotion behaviour, and had significantly lower relative abundances of a Pseudomonas spp. (OTU3) than the normally behaved fish. Our findings indicate that ACB PoU filtered water can alter gut microbiomes and affect the behaviour patterns in larval zebrafish.
The microfluidic artificial lung: Mimicking nature's blood path design to solve the biocompatibility paradox
Authors: Astor Todd L. , Borenstein Jeffrey T.
Published: May 2022

The increasing prevalence of chronic lung disease worldwide, combined with the emergence of multiple pandemics arising from respiratory viruses over the past century, highlights the need for safer and efficacious means for providing artificial lung support. Mechanical ventilation is currently used for the vast majority of patients suffering from acute and chronic lung failure, but risks further injury or infection to the patient's already compromised lung function. Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) has emerged as a means of providing direct gas exchange with the blood, but limited access to the technology and the complexity of the blood circuit have prevented the broader expansion of its use. A promising avenue toward simplifying and minimizing complications arising from the blood circuit, microfluidics‐based artificial organ support, has emerged over the past decade as an opportunity to overcome many of the fundamental limitations of the current standard for ECMO cartridges, hollow fiber membrane oxygenators. The power of microfluidics technology for this application stems from its ability to recapitulate key aspects of physiological microcirculation, including the small dimensions of blood vessel structures and gas transfer membranes. An even greater advantage of microfluidics, the ability to configure blood flow patterns that mimic the smooth, branching nature of vascular networks, holds the potential to reduce the incidence of clotting and bleeding and to minimize reliance on anticoagulants. Here, we summarize recent progress and address future directions and goals for this potentially transformative approach to artificial lung support.
Experimental assessment of obsidian versus chert lanceolate projectile point durability and robusticity: Semi‐static fracture strength and dynamic impact
Authors: Gala Nicholas , Mika Anna , Wilson Michael , Williams Jeremy , Buchanan Briggs , Walker Robert S. , Bebber Michelle R. , Eren Metin I.
Published: May 2022

Stone‐tipped weaponry was important for the survival of past peoples, and many functional and non‐functional factors likely influenced their design. Two functional factors that past peoples likely considered in the design of their stone tips are durability (whether or not a stone tip breaks) and robusticity (how much damage is incurred upon breakage). Many factors have been shown experimentally to influence stone tip influence durability and robusticity, including stone raw material. Here, we further explore the relationship between stone raw material and stone tip durability and robusticity via controlled experiments comparing chert and obsidian. We first demonstrate with semi‐static fracture strength analyses that obsidian stone tips require less force to break than do chert stone tips. We then show with dynamic ballistics impact testing that obsidian stone tips are less durable and robust than chert stone tips. Our results are entirely consistent with previous experimental comparisons of chert versus obsidian stone tips, and support the hypothesis that past peoples, when presented with multiple raw materials, likely weighed their costs and benefits in the process of selection.
“I'm not batman” and other factors impacting bystander intervention against sexual violence in Australian nightlife settings
Authors: Wrightson‐Hester Aimee‐Rose , Allan Alfred , Allan Maria M.
Published: May 2022

Unsolicited sexual behaviors that constitute sexual violence appear to be commonplace in nightlife settings in many countries and bystander intervention might be a way to eliminate them. However, few researchers have investigated the barriers and facilitators that affect Australian bystanders’ likelihood to help, and these should be considered in the planning of bystander intervention programs. Using a grounded theory approach, we interviewed fourteen men and women about their perceptions of factors that might influence bystander behavior in Australian nightlife settings. The categories identified suggest that it is difficult for nightlife patrons to notice and identify sexual violence occurring around them. Further, nightlife patrons respect other patrons’ right to engage in sexual behavior and will not intervene unless the recipient has been harmed by the behavior. Patrons are, also, much more likely to help when the recipient is a friend or a woman. Traditional bystander intervention programs on their own might not sufficiently address these barriers. Programs will also need to address patrons’ perceptions of sexual violence and the prevailing social and gender norms in nightlife settings regarding sexual behavior.
A qualitative review of misinformation and conspiracy theories in skin cancer
Authors: O'Connor Cathal , Rafferty Siobhán , Murphy Michelle
Published: May 2022

Misinformation on diseases and treatments is a worldwide threat and can lead to worse outcomes for patients with skin cancer. The aim of this study was to qualitatively assess the content of online misinformation related to skin cancer. Searches were performed via PubMed and Google using the terms ‘skin cancer’ OR ‘melanoma’ OR ‘non-melanoma skin cancer’ OR ‘SCC’ OR ‘BCC’ AND ‘misinformation’ OR ‘disinformation’ OR ‘conspiracy theories’. The most common themes of misinformation related to skin cancer included assertions of the ‘dangers’ of using sunscreen and alternative sunscreen practices; promotion of tanning and Melanotan (an unlicensed and untested form of α-melanocyte-stimulating hormone) as safe practices; claims that risk of skin cancer are limited to people who are older or have fair skin; and assertions of alternative ‘causes’ and alternative ‘cures’ for skin cancer. Sunscreen was particularly vilified as being an ineffective prophylactic measure and a cause of skin cancer. Dermatologists should be aware of misinformation available online relating to skin cancer, and refute and rebut misleading health information.
Modelling the Great Recession as a Bank Panic: Challenges
Authors: Christiano Lawrence , Dalgic Husnu , Li Xiaoming
Published: May 2022

We highlight two challenges for the notion that a pure panic bank run played an important role in the dynamics in the Great Recession. First, the conclusion depends critically on ruling out any entry of new net worth into a sector experiencing a run. We find that the implied cost of entry is implausibly large, across a range of pure panic models. Second, we show that the qualitative features of run equilibria (their existence, how many there are, etc.) are highly sensitive to minor technical changes in assumptions about banker entry. We report another result that is of independent interest. In particular, we describe implementation problems associated with standard macroprudential policy tools for reducing the risk of bank panic.
Knowing things and going places
Authors: Kukla Quill R
Published: May 2022

When I say “I know Sarah,” or “I know Berlin,” what sort of knowledge am I claiming? Such knowledge of a particular is, I claim, not reducible to either propositional knowledge‐that or to traditional physical know‐how. Mere, bare knowledge by acquaintance also does not capture the kind of knowledge being claimed here. Using knowledge of a place as my central example, I argue that this kind of knowledge‐of, or “objectual knowledge” as it is sometimes called, is of a distinctive epistemological sort. It is a genre of inherently first‐personal aesthetic knowledge, but it also, like know‐how, involves active skill. I end by exploring a couple of classic problems in aesthetic epistemology, applied to the case of knowledge‐of as active aesthetic knowledge.
Low dose prophylaxis and antifibrinolytics: Options to consider with proven benefits for persons with haemophilia
Authors: Carcao Manuel , Gouider Emna , Wu Runhui
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Prophylaxis has become standard of care for persons with severe phenotype haemophilia (PWsH). However, ‘standard prophylaxis’ with either factor or non‐factor therapies (emicizumab) is prohibitively expensive for much of the world. We sought to evaluate whether haemophilia care can be provided at a lower cost yet achieve good results using Lower dose/Lower frequency prophylaxis (LDP) and with increasing use of antifibrinolytics (Tranexamic acid and Epsilon amino caproic acid).

Methods

We identified 12 studies that collectively included 335 PWsH using LDP. Additionally, we undertook a literature search regarding the benefits of antifibrinolytics in haemophilia care.

Results

Identified studies show that LDP is far superior to no prophylaxis (On demand [OD] therapy) resulting in significant patient benefits. Patients on LDP showed (in comparison to patients OD) on average: 72% less total bleeds; 75% less joint bleeds; 91% less days lost from school; 77% less hospital admission days; and improved quality of life measures. These benefits come at similar or only slightly higher (< 2‐fold greater) costs than OD therapy. Antifibrinolytics are effective adjunctive agents in managing bleeds (oral, nasal, intracranial, possibly other) and providing haemostasis for surgeries (particularly oral surgeries). Antifibrinolytics can substitute for more expensive factor concentrates or can reduce the use of such concentrates. There is evidence to show that antifibrinolytics may be used in conjunction with factor concentrates/emicizumab for more effective/less costly prophylaxis.

Conclusions

The use of LDP along with appropriate and increased use of antifibrinolytics offers less resourced countries good options for managing patients with haemophilia.
The lived experiences of women exploring a healthy lifestyle, gestational weight gain and physical activity throughout pregnancy
Authors: Newson Lisa , Bould Kathryn , Aspin‐Wood Bronte , Sinclair Lauren , Ikramullah Zainab , Abayomi Julie
Published: May 2022

Background

Weight gain is inevitable during pregnancy. However, high prepregnancy body mass index and excessive gestational weight gain are associated with poor pregnancy outcomes. Understanding the experiences, social influences and decisions women make to maintain a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy are essential to consider how to improve services and interventions to help women engage in a healthy diet and physical activity (PA) behaviours.

Objective

The study investigated women's opinions and lived experiences of engaging in a healthy diet, promoting optimal gestational weight gain and PA during and after pregnancy.

Design and Methods

Twenty‐two pregnant women contributed to qualitative data collection for this Grounded Theory (GT) study. Nineteen women completed semi‐structured interviews and three patient and public involvement (PPI) representatives sought to validate the analysis and GT framework.

Results

Two substantive categories were constructed: (1) Evolving from ‘I’ to ‘we’, as informed by two subcategories and (2) the power of information and guidance, as informed by three subcategories. These categories informed the core category, ‘A navigational journey and evolution of the pregnant self’. The navigational journey involves constantly searching for knowledge and information to support and balance the interests of personal beliefs, the health of their unborn baby, their social circle and the wider world. A woman's psychological capability (e.g., their knowledge of a healthy lifestyle and confidence to implement such knowledge) is continuously tested.

Conclusions

Pregnancy may create a ‘teachable moment’ but there is a need for appropriate guidance from professionals to assist with lifestyle choices during pregnancy. The findings showed a significant influence of online resources, and lack of guidance on behaviour during pregnancy and may highlight areas of focus for future research and intervention.

Public Contribution

Three pregnant women were recruited to act as PPI representatives to assist with the validation of the analytical findings and aid the final theoretical saturation of the GT framework. Commentary from these PPI representatives was used to validate the analysis and support the interpretation of the data. In addition, these PPI representatives were also invited to provide commentary on the draft manuscript and those involved in this later process have been included as coauthors.
If and how do 360° videos fit into education settings? Results from a scoping review of empirical research
Authors: Ranieri Maria , Luzzi Damiana , Cuomo Stefano , Bruni Isabella
Published: May 2022

Background

Over recent years, interest towards the use of immersive technologies has grown in parallel with the lowering of equipment costs: educators have started embedding them into their teaching practices at different levels of the educational system, from primary school to higher education. In general, immersive technologies are seen as suitable tools to live vicarious experiences, when the reality is hardly accessible, for instance due to safety issues.

Objectives

In this paper, we focus on 360° videos with the aim of developing a more systematic and evidence informed approach to the understanding of the educational uses of 360° in different educational contexts.

Methods

A scoping literature review approach has been adopted in order to obtain a comprehensive insight based on objective, replicable and transparent procedures.

Results and conclusions

The review includes studies published from 2016 onwards. According to the findings, 360° videos are more suitable for disciplines requiring careful observation of how knowledge is transferred into practice and where practical scenarios are involved: 360° videos have positive effects on learning, especially referring to motivation, attentiveness, information retention and transfer of knowledge. However, as for learners' reactions, physical discomfort is reported, mainly associated with the use of HMD. In addition, challenges, and barriers to the educational use of 360° video should be further analysed, since up to now logistical constraints have limited the studies to a very small sample population, without the possibility of providing suggestions for a wider adoption at organisation and institution level.

Implications

As 360° videos are reported to be promising in fostering learning processes, students' engagement, and information retention, further studies are recommend to cover the current gaps in the literature, particularly focusing on drawbacks and organizational challenges.
Caste, diversification, and the contemporary agrarian question in India: A field perspective
Authors: Yadav Srishti
Published: May 2022

This paper seeks to analyse agrarian class relations in Sangli, a village in Rewari district, southern Haryana, in light of the linkages of agricultural households with non‐agricultural economic activities. I find that better‐off households that are primarily dependent on agriculture are the most likely to re‐invest in agriculture. Agricultural surpluses allow upper caste landowning households to diversify into businesses or formal employment; alternatively, landownership provides a failsafe against precarious daily wage work, which is the only type of work available to lower caste landless households who lack economic and social capital. This segmentation of diversification opportunities is understood as conjugated oppression resting on caste and land ownership.
New evidence of moral hazard: Environmental liability insurance and firms' environmental performance
Authors: Chen Shiyi , Ding Xiaoxiao , Lou Pingyi , Song Hong
Published: May 2022

This paper provides novel evidence of the moral hazard problem in environmental insurance by investigating the effect of environmental liability insurance (ELI) on firms' environmental performance. Using the staggered adoption of ELI policies in China as a quasi‐natural experiment, we employ a difference‐in‐differences setup based on a comprehensive firm‐level data set. We find that the adoption of ELI policies significantly reduces firms' efforts in treating water pollution. The negative estimate indicates a moral hazard problem and is the opposite of the positive estimates found mainly in studies that focus on US firms. We further find that the negative effect is lessened for firms in strictly supervised regions and for firms with strong environmental awareness. This paper is one of the first to evaluate environmental insurance in developing economies and provides novel evidence on moral hazard in environmental liability insurance markets.
Chemical and nutritional composition of Pamir yak milk from Xinjiang
Authors: Mamet Torkun , Xu Bing‐jie , Li Xiaotong , Zhang Jin , Li Caihong , Wang Liang
Published: May 2022

Pamir yak milk is considered to be ideal food for local people, but its nutritional profile has not yet been reported. This study investigated the chemical and nutritional composition of Pamir yak milk, and compared the results with reference composition of goat and cow milk. We found that the Pamir yak milk had higher contents of protein (4.30%), fat (4.63), lactose (5.21%) and total solid (14.84%) than that of goat and cow milk. The predominant amino acids were glutamate (20%), proline (10%), lysine (10%) and leucine (10%), of which the essential amino acids accounted for 48% of the total amino acids. Meanwhile, Pamir yak milk was rich in minerals such as Ca, Fe, Zn and Mg and thiamine (B1), niacin (B3), Pyridoxine (B6) and cobalamin (B12) were higher than those of cow and goat milk. Also, medium‐chain fatty acids (C12−C16) exhibited the highest level. However, The α ‐linolenic acid (C18:3), eicosapentaenoic acid and docosahexaenoic acid were found in yak milk. All of the above‐mentioned differences were demonstrated by the fact that the yak milk quality may be affecting by pasture production, animal species and nutritive value of the herbage. Therefore, Pamir yak milk is a promising alternative food that may contribute to human health.
Effects of soybean hulls and corn stalk on the performance, colostrum composition and faecal microflora of pregnant sows
Authors: Gao Tie , Chen Xueying , Liu Zhen , Diao Xinping
Published: May 2022

This study was conducted to investigate the effects of different supplementation levels of soybean hulls and corn stalk in high‐fibre gestation diet on the performance, colostrum composition and faecal microbiota of sows. Forty first‐farrowing Danish Landrace sows were randomly assigned to five dietary treatment groups. The control (CON, 3.15% crude fibre) group was fed a normal diet, and the treatment groups were soybean hulls low‐fibre (SHL, 6.00% crude fibre) group, soybean hulls high‐fibre (SHH, 8.00% crude fibre) group, corn stalk low‐fibre (CSL, 6.00% crude fibre) group and corn stalk high‐fibre (CSH, 8.00% crude fibre) group. The weaning weight of the litter and the average daily feed intake of the lactating sows in the SHL, SHH and CSH groups were higher than those in the CON group (p < 0.05). The immunoglobulin A and G levels of the colostrum in the SHL, SHH, CSL and CSH groups were higher than those in the CON group (p < 0.05), and the immunoglobulin M levels in the SHL, SHH and CSH groups were higher than those in the CON group (p < 0.05). The abundance of Proteobacteria at the phylum level in the CON group was higher than that in the CSL, CSH and SHH groups (p < 0.05). The abundance of Lactobacillaceae at the family level in the SHH and CSL groups were higher than that in the CON group (p < 0.05). The abundance of Lactobacillus at the genus level in the SHH and CSL groups were higher than that in the CON group (p < 0.05). In conclusion, SHH group had the best effect, and the optimal crude fibre level in the gestation diet of sows is 8%.
Diagnosis and histopathologic prognostication of canine melanocytic neoplasms: A consensus of the Oncology‐Pathology Working Group
Authors: Smedley Rebecca C. , Bongiovanni Laura , Bacmeister Cynthia , Clifford Craig A. , Christensen Neil , Dreyfus Jennifer M. , Gary Joy M. , Pavuk Alana , Rowland Peter H. , Swanson Christine , Tripp Chelsea , Woods J. Paul , Bergman Philip J.
Published: May 2022

One of the primary objectives of the Oncology Pathology Working Group (OPWG) is for oncologists and pathologists to collaboratively generate consensus documents to standardize aspects of and provide guidelines for veterinary oncologic pathology. Consensus is established through review of relevant peer‐reviewed literature relative to a subgroup's particular focus. In this article, the authors provide a critical review of the current literature for the diagnosis of, and histopathologic prognostication for, canine cutaneous and oral/lip melanocytic neoplasms, suggest guidelines for reporting, provide recommendations for clinical interpretation, and discuss future directions. This document represents the opinions of the working group and the authors and does not constitute a formal endorsement by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists, American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine or the Veterinary Cancer Society.
Clinical and clinicopathological characteristics, treatment, and outcome for dogs and cats with confirmed foxtail foreign body lesions: 791 cases (2009–2018)
Authors: Philp Helen S. , Epstein Steven E. , Hopper Kate
Published: May 2022

Objective

To describe the clinical and clinicopathological characteristics, treatment, and outcome for dogs and cats with a confirmed foxtail.

Design

Retrospective study utilizing a medical records database over a 10‐year period from January 1, 2009 to December 31, 2018.

Setting

University teaching hospital.

Animals

Seven hundred and fifty‐four dogs and 37 cats with a diagnosis of foxtail foreign body. Cases with direct visualization by a clinician or on histopathology were included. Information extracted for each case included signalment; anatomical foxtail location; clinicopathological and imaging findings; treatments and interventions provided; and outcome.

Measurements and Main Results

The prevalence of foxtail associated disease was 0.25% in dogs and 0.07% in cats over this time period. Most animals were young to middle‐aged and presented in the summer months. The most common location in dogs was the aural canal, cutaneous/subcutaneous space, and nasal canal. In cats, ocular foxtails were most common (30/37). Blood work changes were nonspecific. Ultrasound supervised by a boarded radiologist was utilized in 114 cases, mainly for subcutaneous, sublumbar, and intracavitary foxtail locations, with successful location of a foxtail in 72.8% of cases scanned. Computed tomography was performed in 78 dogs with suspected intracavitary foxtail migration, and in all cases, structural changes related to the presence of the foxtail were found. Anerobic bacteria were most commonly isolated when a culture was submitted, with Actinomyces spp. rarely isolated. The most common of the 120 anaerobic isolates were Bacteroides/Prevotella spp. (n = 38), Fusobacterium spp. (n = 32), and Peptostreptococcus anaerobius (n = 30).

Conclusions

The short‐term outcome for foxtail‐associated lesions is good, and most cases can be managed on an outpatient basis. A minority of cases develop life‐threatening disease and may require a multidisciplinary approach of multimodal imaging, endoscopy, or surgery.
MERIDIAN open-source software for deep learning-based acoustic data analysis
Authors: Kirsebom Oliver S. , Frazao Fabio , Padovese Bruno , Sakib Sadman , Su Yue , Matwin Stan
Published: May 2022

Deep neural networks have the potential to transform our approach to developing acoustic detection and classification models, enabling acousticians to develop or re-purpose such models through a fully data-driven approach requiring minimal knowledge of signal processing, algorithm design, and programming. However, open-source software to facilitate this data-driven workflow is currently lacking. MERIDIAN is working towards filling this gap through the development of several open-source software products, including the Python package Ketos and the MAIPL (Marine AI PLatform) suite of web applications. While Ketos provides a high-level programming interface for training deep neural networks at detecting and classifying sounds, MAIPL is a modular cloud computing service that supports the full model-development workflow. In this contribution, an overview of Ketos and MAIPL will be given and their functionalities will be demonstrated through their application to the HALLO (Humans and ALgorithms Listening for Orcas) project. We highlight one of the MAIPL tools, the MAIPL-Annotator, which provides a user-friendly interface for collaboratively annotating sound samples and validating model predictions. Future developments will also be described, highlighting new MAIPL applications under development such as the MAIPL-Adapter, a tool for adapting acoustic deep learning models to new acoustic environments.
Sensitivity of the subharmonic responses from contrast microbubbles to ambient pressure
Authors: Hassanzadeh Azami Roozbeh , Yapar Mehmet , Sarkar Kausik
Published: May 2022

Microbubbles are well-known ultrasound contrast agents which can produce nonlinear oscillation leading to harmonic and subharmonic responses. There has been an interest in utilizing this phenomenon for noninvasive pressure estimation and its use in diagnosis of diseases such as portal hypertension. The subharmonic response of a microbubble display three different regimes with increasing excitation: occurrence, growth, and saturation. In this study, subharmonic responses of lipid-shelled microbubbles were investigated with varying ambient pressures at different excitation parameters. We observed that subharmonic sensitivity to ambient pressure varied differently in different excitation ranges. We also noted that applying overpressure could induce subharmonic generation where there was no subharmonic without overpressure. At occurrence stage, the sensitivity of subharmonic to ambient pressure was significantly higher. This property can be utilized for improved pressure estimation with high sensitivity even at low acoustic excitation.
Predicting acoustic emissions of ultrasound-driven lipid-coated microbubbles
Authors: Schenke Sören , Saha Rishav , Denner Fabian
Published: May 2022

Lipid-coated microbubbles excited by ultrasound are utilized in an increasing number of diagnostic and therapeutic medical applications, in which the acoustic waves emitted by the oscillating or collapsing bubbles are the main protagonist. The emitted acoustic waves cause bioeffects, enable contrast enhancement for ultrasonic imaging, and serve as a reference to monitor cavitation activity in situ. However, quantifying the acoustic waves emitted by cavitation bubbles turns out to be difficult: the small and extremely transient phenomenon is challenging to measure in experiments with sufficient accuracy and state-of-the-art computational methods are limited in their ability to predict acoustic emissions reliably. In this contribution, we present our recent work on predicting acoustic emissions of microbubbles based on Rayleigh–Plesset models and, more generally, reduced-order models. Using the nonlinear Westervelt equation including the motion of the bubble wall and the background medium as a result of the bubble oscillations, we investigate the amplitude and frequency modulation (e.g., due to nonlinear Doppler effects, thermoviscous attenuation or geometric distortion) of acoustic waves emitted by lipid-coated microbubbles. Additionally, we explore the capabilities of a reduced-order modeling approach that drastically simplifies the computational complexity of simulating these acoustic emissions.
The problem of paleo-planforms
Authors: Lyster Sinéad J. , Whittaker Alexander C. , Hajek Elizabeth A.
Published: May 2022

Reconstructing river planform is crucial to understanding ancient fluvial systems on Earth and other planets. Paleo-planform is typically interpreted from qualitative facies interpretations of fluvial strata, but these can be inconsistent with quantitative approaches. We tested three well-known hydraulic planform predictors in Cretaceous fluvial strata (in Utah, USA) where there is a facies-derived consensus on paleo-planform. However, the results of each predictor are inconsistent with facies interpretations and with each other. We found that one of these predictors is analytically best suited for geologic application but favors single-thread planforms. Given that this predictor was originally tested using just 53 data points from natural rivers, we compiled a new data set of hydraulic geometries in natural rivers (n = 1688), which spanned >550 globally widespread, sand- and gravel-bed rivers from various climate and vegetative regimes. We found that the existing criteria misclassified 65% of multithread rivers in our data set, but modification resulted in a useful predictor. We show that depth/width (H/W) ratio alone is sufficient to discriminate between single-thread (H/W > 0.02) and multithread (H/W < 0.02) rivers, suggesting bank cohesion may be a critical determinant of planform. Further, we show that the slope/Froude (S/Fr) ratio is useful to discriminate process in multithread rivers; i.e., whether generation of new threads is an avulsion-dominated (anastomosing) or bifurcation-dominated (braided) process. Multithread rivers are likely to be anastomosing when S/Fr < 0.003 (shallower slopes) and braided when S/Fr > 0.003 (steeper slopes). Our criteria successfully discriminate planform in modern rivers and our geologic examples, and they offer an effective approach to predict planform in the geologic past on Earth and on other planets.
Seminal vesicle fistula: a rare pathology in complicated Crohn’s disease
Authors: Thompson Jessica , Patel Amit , Nicholson Gary
Published: May 2022

This case report describes a patient with complicated Crohn’s disease who presented to a routine gastroenterology clinic complaining of increasing white discharge from a chronic perianal abscess. MRI of the perineum established the diagnosis of a seminal vesicle fistula connecting to the perianal skin. He was treated conservatively, with optimisation of his Crohn’s disease medication regime. Seminal vesicle fistulation is a rare pathology.
Comparing modelled with self-reported travel time and the used versus the nearest facility: modelling geographic accessibility to family planning outlets in Kenya
Authors: Bouanchaud Paul , Macharia Peter M , Demise Eden G , Nakimuli Doreen
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Geographic access to family planning (FP) services has been characterised through a variety of proximity metrics. However, there is little evidence on the validity of women’s self-reported compared with modelled travel time to an FP outlet, or between different distance measures.

Methods

We used data from four urban sites in Kenya. A longitudinal FP outlet census was directly linked with data from cross-sectional FP user surveys. We combined characteristics of outlet visited to obtain FP, transport mode, self-reported travel time and location of households and outlets with data on road networks, elevation, land use and travel barriers within a cost-distance algorithm to compute modelled travel time, route and Euclidean distance between households and outlets. We compared modelled and self-reported travel times, Euclidean and route distances and the use of visited versus nearest facility.

Results

931 contraceptive users were directly linked to their FP source. Self-reported travel times were consistently and significantly higher than modelled times, with greater differences for those using vehicles rather than walking. Modelled and Euclidean distances were similar in the four geographies. 20% of women used their nearest FP outlet while 52% went to their nearest outlet when conditional on it offering their most recently used FP method.

Conclusion

In urban areas with high facility density and good road connectivity, over half of FP users visited their nearest outlet with their chosen method available. In these settings, Euclidean distances were sufficient to characterise geographic proximity; however, reported and modelled travel times differed across all sites.
Methanol-induced parkinsonism and cerebral vasculopathy due to perfume inhalation
Authors: B Mohammed Walaa , Tarabzouni Salma , Bohlega Saeed
Published: May 2022

Background

Methanol (methyl alcohol) is a form of toxic alcohol that is found in illicit alcohol as well as household products such as solvents and paint removers. The most common cause of methanol poisoning is through ingestion of adulterated alcohol; however, other routes of poisoning may also occur including cutaneous exposure and, rarely, inhalation.

Methods/results

We are reporting a case of a young woman with vision loss, parkinsonism and widespread cerebral artery spasms due to methanol inhalation from domestically made perfume.

Conclusion

Our case highlights the increased need for awareness on the part of the public and health authorities with regard to the manufacturing and use of homemade perfumes produced with poorly processed alcohol having a high methyl alcohol content.
COVID-19, body weight and the neighbourhood: food system dimensions and consumption associated with changes in body weight of Peruvian adults during first wave lockdowns
Authors: Rojas Huayta Violeta Magdalena , Galvez-Davila Rocio , Calvo-Torres Oscar , Cardozo Alarcón Vanessa , Aparco Juan Pablo , Silva Fhon Jack Roberto , Estrada-Acero Bill , Jaimes-Velásquez Carlos , Céspedes-Panduro Bernardo , Espinoza-Bernardo Sissy , Dolores-Maldonado Gandy , Ramírez Ramírez Rofilia , Gallo Ruelas Mariano , Arteaga-Romero Irene , Higa Ana Maria
Published: May 2022

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess changes in the dimensions of the food system and consumption associated with body weight variations during the first month’s lockdown in Peruvian adults in Metropolitan Lima.

Methods

A cross-sectional study conducted during the first months of lockdowns in Peru. 694 adults completed a web-based survey about changes experienced in the process of acquiring food during lockdown, changes in their intake and self-perceived body weight. A multinomial logistic regression analysis was conducted to evaluate the factors associated with changes in body weight.

Results

Weight gain was perceived in 38% of the participants and 22.8% perceived weight loss. 39.2% did not perceive changes in their weight. Risk factors for body weight gain were increased alcohol consumption (OR=4.510, 95% CI 1.764 to 11.531) and decreased fruit consumption (OR=2.129, 95% CI 1.290 to 3.515), while decreasing cereal intake (OR=0.498, 95% CI 0.269 to 0.922) and choosing nutritious food as a driver for purchase (OR=0.512, 95% CI 0.320 to 0.821) were found to be protective against gaining weight. Decreasing food intake during the pandemic (OR=2.188, 95% CI 1.348 to 3.550) and having to miss important foods (OR=2.354, 95% CI 1.393 to 3.978), were associated with weight loss.

Conclusions

During confinement, weight gain was mostly associated with food consumption and personal food system factors. Meanwhile, weight loss was associated with external food system factors.
General practitioner gender and use of diagnostic procedures: a French cross-sectional study in training practices
Authors: Bouissiere Amandine , Laperrouse Marine , Panjo Henri , Ringa Virginie , Rigal Laurent , Letrilliart Laurent
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The acceleration in the number of female doctors has led to questions about differences in how men and women practice medicine. The aim of this study was to assess the influence of general practitioner (GP) gender on the use of the three main categories of diagnostic procedures—clinical examinations, laboratory tests and imaging investigations.

Design

Cross-sectional nationwide multicentre study.

Setting

French training general practices.

Participants

The patient sample included all the voluntary patients over a cumulative period of 5 days per office between November 2011 and April 2012. The GP sample included 85 males and 43 females.

Methods

54 interns in general practice, observing their GP supervisors, collected data about the characteristics of GPs and consultations, as well as the health problems managed during the visit and the processes of care associated with them. Using hierarchical multilevel mixed-effect logistic regression models, we performed multivariable analyses to assess differences in each of the three main categories of diagnostic procedures, and two specific multivariable analyses for each category, distinguishing screening from diagnostic or follow-up procedures. We searched for interactions between GP gender and patient gender or type of health problem managed.

Results

This analysis of 45 582 health problems managed in 20 613 consultations showed that female GPs performed more clinical examinations than male GPs, both for screening (OR 1.75; 95% CI 1.19 to 2.58) and for diagnostic or follow-up purposes (OR 1.41; 95% CI 1.08 to 1.84). Female GPs also ordered laboratory tests for diagnostic or follow-up purposes more frequently (OR 1.21; 95% CI 1.03 to 1.43). Female GPs performed even more clinical examinations than male GPs to diagnose or follow-up injuries (OR 1.69; 95% CI 1.19 to 2.40).

Conclusion

Further research on the appropriateness of diagnostic procedures is required to determine to what extent these differences are related to underuse or overuse.
Effectiveness of interventions for improving timely diagnosis of breast and cervical cancers in low-income and middle-income countries: a systematic review
Authors: Nnaji Chukwudi A , Kuodi Paul , Walter Fiona M , Moodley Jennifer
Published: May 2022

Objectives

To systematically synthesise available evidence on the nature and effectiveness of interventions for improving timely diagnosis of breast and cervical cancers in low and middle-income countries (LMICs).

Design

A systematic review of published evidence. The review was conducted and reported in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analyses.

Data sources

A comprehensive search of published literature was conducted. In addition, relevant grey literature sources and bibliographical references of included studies were searched for potentially eligible evidence.

Study selection

Studies published between January 2010 and November 2020 were eligible for inclusion. To be eligible, studies had to report on interventions/strategies targeted at women, the general public or healthcare workers, aimed at improving the timely diagnosis of breast and/or cervical cancers in LMIC settings.

Data extraction and synthesis

Literature search, screening, study selection, data extraction and quality appraisal were conducted by two independent reviewers. Evidence was synthesised and reported using a global taxonomy framework for early cancer diagnosis.

Results

From the total of 10 593 records identified, 21 studies conducted across 20 LMICs were included in this review. Most of the included studies (16/21) focused primarily on interventions addressing breast cancers; two focused on cervical cancer while the rest examined multiple cancer types. Reported interventions targeted healthcare workers (12); women and adolescent girls (7) and both women and healthcare workers (3). Eight studies reported on interventions addressing access delays; seven focused on interventions addressing diagnostic delays; two reported on interventions targeted at addressing both access and diagnostic delays, and four studies assessed interventions addressing access, diagnostic and treatment delays. While most interventions were demonstrated to be feasible and effective, many of the reported outcome measures are of limited clinical relevance to diagnostic timeliness.

Conclusions

Though limited, evidence suggests that interventions aimed at addressing barriers to timely diagnosis of breast and cervical cancer are feasible in resource-limited contexts. Future interventions need to address clinically relevant measures to better assess efficacy of interventions.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020177232.