bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Trait‐based vulnerability reveals hotspots of potential impact for a global marine invader
Authors: Linardich Christi , Brookson Cole B. , Green Stephanie J. 
Published: June 2021

AbstractPredation from the invasive Indo‐Pacific lionfish is likely to amplify declines in marine fishes observed in multiple ocean basins. As the invasion intensifies and expands, there is an urgent need to identify species that are most at risk for extirpation—and possible extinction—from this added threat. To address this gap and inform conservation plans, we develop and apply a quantitative framework for classifying the relative vulnerability of fishes based on morphological and behavioural traits known to influence susceptibility to lionfish predation (e.g. body shape, water column position and aggregation behaviour), habitat overlap with lionfish, and degree of geographic range restriction. Applying the framework to fishes across the invaded Caribbean Sea and ahead of the invasion front in the southwestern Atlantic revealed the identity of at least 77 fishes with relatively small ranges that are likely to be most affected by lionfish predation. Trait‐based vulnerability scores significantly predict the probability of fishes appearing within the diets of lionfish across the invaded region. Spatial richness analyses reveal hotspots of vulnerable species in the Bahamas, Belize and Curaçao. Crucially, our framework identifies 29 vulnerable fishes endemic to Brazil, which has not yet been colonized by lionfish. Of these, we suggest reefs around offshore island groups occupied by a dozen highly vulnerable and range‐restricted species as priorities for intervention should lionfish spread to the region. Observations of the rate of lionfish spread across the invaded range suggest that an average of 5 years (with a median of nearly 2 years) elapses from first sighting to maximum observed densities. This lag may allow managers to mobilize plans to suppress lionfish ahead of an invasion front in priority locations. Our framework also provides a method for assessing the relative vulnerability of cryptobenthic and/or deep‐reef fishes, for which population‐monitoring data are limited.
An integrative synthesis to global amphibian conservation priorities
Authors: Button Sky , Borzée Amaël 
Published: June 2021

AbstractHuman activities are driving many species to the brink of extinction, and the current distribution of protected areas only weakly alleviates pressure on threatened species. This discrepancy reflects the presence of protected areas on lands available instead of the ecological, evolutionary, or conservation values of species present. Habitat loss consequently continues to impact threatened species, as illustrated by geographic patterns of biodiversity loss for amphibians. Given the need to better align the boundaries of protected areas with at‐risk biodiversity, we assessed the importance of various factors for identifying global and biome‐level conservation priority areas, specifically for amphibians. We identified, mapped, and ranked areas of critical conservation importance for all amphibian species on earth using a new integrative tool that scores the urgency of conserving each species and location based on a combination of species characteristics and ecoregion‐level human impacts. Our integrative approach is novel in that it accounts for likely threats to Data Deficient species, considers the irreplaceability of unique species that are phylogenetically isolated, and addresses the localized conservation implications of species endemicity and projected future human impacts to an ecoregion. For comparison, we also mapped and ranked amphibian biodiversity using species richness and an Evolutionarily Distinct and Globally Endangered (EDGE) score proxy. Our integrative approach predicted key regions for amphibian conservation that were not apparent when using a simple species richness or EDGE score proxy‐based approach. Furthermore, by scaling conservation priority scores relative to biome, we identified several temperate and xeric regions of crucial yet overlooked conservation importance for amphibians. Until global amphibian diversity is thoroughly catalogued, we recommend using our integrative scoring approach to set geographic priorities for amphibian habitat protection, while acknowledging that this approach may be complemented by others (e.g., EDGE scores). Our study provides an avenue for avoiding common pitfalls of more simplistic species richness‐based approaches for conservation planning, and can be used to improve the future design of protected areas.
Solidification depth and crystallization age of the Shiaidani Granodiorite: Constraints to the average denudation rate of the Hida Range, central Japan
Authors: Kawakami Tetsuo , Sueoka Shigeru , Yokoyama Tatsunori , Kagami Saya , King Georgina E. , Herman Frédéric , Tsukamoto Sumiko , Tagami Takahiro 
Published: June 2021

AbstractSolidification pressure and crystallization age of the ~5 Ma Shiaidani Granodiorite (Hida Mountain Range, central Japan) are determined based on Al‐in‐hornblende geobarometry and U–Pb zircon dating. Al‐poor patchy replacements developed in amphiboles are common in this granite and petrographic study revealed that the replacements include chloritized biotite and albitic plagioclase. These are probably the hydrothermally recrystallized domains, and should not be used for solidification pressure estimates. Magmatic rim of amphibole is characterized by Si < 7.3 a.p.f.u. (AlIV > 0.7 a.p.f.u.), and utilized in solidification pressure estimate that yielded 0.17–0.29 GPa. The solidification age of the granite is estimated as ~5.6–5.2 Ma using U–Pb zircon dating. From these data, the lower limit of an average denudation rate after ~5.6–5.2 Ma for the area where Shiaidani Granodiorite is exposed is estimated as 0.93–2.5 mm/year.
Measuring workplace violence for clinical dental hygienists
Authors: Won Seung‐Eun , Choi Ma‐I , Noh Hiejin , Han Sun‐Young , Mun So‐Jung 
Published: June 2021

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to develop and assess a tool for measuring violence experienced by clinical dental hygienists in the workplace.MethodsThe basic questionnaire used in this study was created by referring to previous studies, the Negative Acts Questionnaire‐Revised (NAQ‐R) and the Workplace Bullying in Nursing–Type Inventory (WPBN‐TI). The content feasibility was verified by ten experts in the field, and irrelevant questions were deleted, based on a content validity index value of 0.8. This study surveyed 205 clinical dental hygienists to test the tool's validity and reliability. Frequency analysis was conducted on items related to general characteristics and workplace violence.ResultsThe questionnaire set was 31 questions, which, comprised five domains, were finalized through reliability verification. These domains were verbal attacks and alienation (9 questions), inappropriate work experiences (6 questions), physical threats (4 questions), workplace sexual harassment (6 questions) and verbal violence (6 questions) from patients and their family members. Among the study participants, 47.3% said they received rude signals from others, 17.9% said they were subjected to sexual evaluations regarding their appearance, and 29.4% said their abilities were ignored by patients and family members of patients.ConclusionsClinical dental hygienists have been exposed to various types of violence in their workplaces, such as sexual and verbal harassment, by patients and their family members. This tool can be used in the dental setting to conduct surveys on workplace violence and establish a monitoring and support system.
Oral health‐related quality of life and associated factors in patients with xerostomia
Authors: Choi Jee‐Hye , Kim Moon‐Jong , Kho Hong‐Seop 
Published: June 2021

AbstractObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate clinical and demographic factors associated with oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) in patients with xerostomia.MethodsForty‐one patients (55.2 ± 13.8 years) with xerostomia as a chief complaint participated in the study. Comprehensive information about clinical and demographic characteristics of the patients with xerostomia, xerostomia‐related symptoms and behaviours, and xerostomia‐associated complaints was investigated using a xerostomia questionnaire. Flow rates of unstimulated and stimulated whole saliva were measured. The Oral Health Impact Profile‐14 (OHIP‐14) score was used to assess the OHRQoL of patients. The relationships between various factors and the OHIP‐14 score were assessed by simple and multiple linear regression analyses.ResultsThe OHIP‐14 score of patients with xerostomia was high (44.3 ± 13.2). Characteristics of the patients with xerostomia associated with high OHIP‐14 score were the intensity of xerostomia‐related symptoms, frequency of xerostomia‐related behaviours and the presence of speaking difficulty. Results from multiple linear regressions found that self‐reported amount of saliva in usual, everyday life (β = 0.622, p = 0.012) and the presence of a speaking difficulty (β = 0.348, p = 0.014) had significant adversely affected the OHRQoL in patients with xerostomia.ConclusionsSubjective perceptions of the amount of saliva in the mouth and the experience of speaking difficulty affected the OHRQoL in patients with xerostomia.
Interpreting sulfhemoglobin and methemoglobin in patients with cyanosis: An overview of patients with M‐hemoglobin variants
Authors: Rangan Aruna , Savedra Michelle E. , Dergam‐Larson Camila , Swanson Kenneth C. , Szuberski Jessica , Go Ronald S. , Porter Tavanna R. , Brunker Sarah E. , Shi Min , Nguyen Phuong L. , Hoyer James D. , Oliveira Jennifer L. 
Published: June 2021

AbstractIntroductionMethemoglobin (MetHb) and sulfhemoglobin (SHb) measurements are useful in the evaluation of cyanosis. When one or both values are elevated, additional analysis is important to establish the etiology of the disorder. Methemoglobinemia occurs from acquired or hereditary causes with diverse treatment considerations, while true sulfhemoglobinemia is only acquired and treatment is restricted to toxin removal. Some toxic exposures can result in a dual increase in MetHb and SHb. Hereditary conditions, such as M‐Hemoglobin variants (M‐Hbs), can result in increased MetHb and/or SHb values but are clinically compensated and do not require treatment if they are cyanotic but otherwise clinically well.MethodsHerein, we report 53 hemoglobin variant cases that have associated MetHb and SHb levels measured by an adapted Evelyn‐Malloy laboratory assay method.ResultsOur data indicate M‐Hbs cause variable patterns of MetHb and SHb elevation in a fairly reproducible pattern for the particular variant. In particular, α globin chain M‐Hbs can mimic acquired sulfhemoglobinemia due to an isolated increased SHb value.ConclusionIf the patient appears clinically well other than cyanosis, M‐Hbs should be considered early in the evaluation process to differentiate from acquired conditions to avoid unnecessary testing and treatment regimens and prompt genetic counseling.
Safety and efficacy of high‐flow nasal cannula therapy in acute hypercapnic respiratory failure: a retrospective audit
Authors: Golmohamad Amin , Johnston Rachel , Hay Karen , Tay George 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBackgroundWhile the role of high‐flow nasal cannulae (HFNC) in the management of respiratory failure continues to expand, few studies describe its use in acute hypercapnic respiratory failure.AimsIn this retrospective study, we assessed the safety and efficacy of HFNC for the treatment of acute hypercapnic respiratory failure.MethodsAdmissions with acute hypercapnic respiratory failure to a thoracic medicine unit at a tertiary centre between January and August 2018 were included if treated with either HFNC or non‐invasive ventilation (NIV). The primary outcome was post‐treatment change in arterial pCO2. Demographics, comorbidities, length of stay, readmission rate and mortality were also collected.ResultsSixty‐four patients were identified, comprising 69 presentations grouped according to initial treatment: HFNC (n = 24) or NIV (n = 45). Patients in the NIV group had more severe blood gas derangement. In both groups, mean arterial pCO2 improved significantly (−10 (95% confidence interval: −14 to −6) mmHg) from baseline with no evidence of a differential effect between groups. Six (25%) patients, of whom three had comorbid obesity and two had sleep‐disordered breathing, were transitioned from HFNC to NIV. No significant differences in hospital length of stay, 30‐day readmission rate or 90‐day mortality were observed.ConclusionsHFNC might be a reasonable initial treatment for patients with mild acute hypercapnic respiratory failure who do not have comorbid obesity or sleep‐disordered breathing. A prospective study might help identify clinical factors or phenotypes predictive of success with this treatment modality.
Long‐term safety and efficacy of sublingual ketamine troches/lozenges in chronic non‐malignant pain management
Authors: Maudlin Ben , Gibson Stephen B. , Aggarwal Arun 
Published: June 2021

AbstractBackgroundChronic non‐malignant pain is a disabling condition that results in a reduction in function and quality of life when inadequately managed. Sublingual ketamine has been shown to be efficacious for use in chronic pain. Despite its use for decades in chronic non‐malignant pain, there is no published long‐term data on safety, side‐effects or adverse drug reactions.AimThe aim of this case‐series is to provide the initial evidence for safety and efficacy in this patient group.MethodsWe present a retrospective review of 29 (n = 29) patients from a metropolitan tertiary pain service who have been receiving sublingual ketamine troches/lozenges between the period of 2012 and 2019. Patients were identified from the outpatient pain clinic, who had been admitted for inpatient subcutaneous ketamine infusions as part of opiate detoxification or management of central sensitisation due to a chronic neuropathic pain syndrome. An initial review was performed to check the patient started taking the ketamine troches. Each of these medical records was reviewed manually to extract information to a datasheet.ResultsThere was a wide range of dosages used from 25 to 600 mg in divided doses. The duration of treatment ranged 2−89 months. There was no association with either the dosage or duration of treatment and frequency of side‐effects. There was an overall reduction in the use of opioids, gabapentinoids or benzodiazepines in 59% of patients with 39% having a complete cessation of an analgesic agent. Side‐effects were reported in 24%, but only 7% discontinued the treatment due to the side‐effect (drowsiness). There were no reports of renal impairment, cystitis or hepatotoxicity.DiscussionThis retrospective case‐series has demonstrated that sublingual ketamine is a safe and effective analgesic agent to use in chronic non‐malignant pain management. It is indicated in a variety of chronic pain conditions and has an excellent safety profile, with no association between the frequency in side‐effects and duration of therapy or total daily dosages. The study has also shown that the ‘safe’ dose may be higher than the previous consensus.
Adaptive coordinate sampling for stochastic primal–dual optimization
Authors: Liu Huikang , Wang Xiaolu , So Anthony Man‐Cho 
Published: June 2021

AbstractWe consider the regularized empirical risk minimization (ERM) of linear predictors, which arises in a variety of problems in machine learning and statistics. After reformulating the original ERM as a bilinear saddle‐point problem, we can apply stochastic primal–dual methods to solve it. Sampling the primal or dual coordinates with a fixed nonuniform distribution is usually employed to accelerate the convergence of the algorithm, but such a strategy only exploits the global information of the objective function. To capture its local structures, we propose an adaptive importance sampling strategy that chooses the coordinates based on delicately designed nonuniform and nonstationary distributions. When our adaptive coordinate sampling strategy is applied to the Stochastic Primal‐Dual Coordinate (SPDC), we prove that the resulting algorithm enjoys linear convergence. Moreover, we show that the ideal form of our adaptive sampling exhibits strictly sharper convergence rate under certain conditions compared with the vanilla SPDC. We also extend our sampling strategy to other algorithms including Doubly Stochastic Primal‐Dual Coordinate (DSPDC) and Stochastic Primal‐Dual with O(1) per‐iteration cost and Variance Reduction (SPD1‐VR), where both primal and dual coordinates are randomly sampled. Our experiment results show that the proposed strategy significantly improves the convergence performance of the methods when compared with existing sampling strategies.
Policy evaluation and efficiency: a systematic literature review
Authors: Mergoni Anna , De Witte Kristof 
Published: June 2021

AbstractThis paper provides a systematic literature review of studies investigating the effect of an intervention on the efficiency of a decision‐making unit, when efficiency is computed using nonparametric frontier approaches. This paper offers a guide for future research by identifying patterns in (1) the fields of application, (2) applied efficiency models, and (3) analysis of efficiency determinants. Our findings indicate that, despite the prominent role of frontier techniques in the analysis of public sector performances and the importance of the effectiveness and the policy perspective, these two approaches have long been kept separate. Nevertheless, the combination of efficiency and effectiveness is fundamental to evaluate public interventions and to detect inefficiencies at the policy level, especially in key sectors such as education, health, and environment.
Assessing Panamanian hospitals' performance with alternative frontier methods
Authors: Cordero José M. , García‐García Agustín , Lau‐Cortés Enrique , Polo Cristina 
Published: June 2021

AbstractIn the last decades, there has been a growing interest in measuring the efficiency of hospitals using different methodological approaches, mainly represented by data envelopment analysis (DEA) and stochastic frontier analysis (SFA). In this study, we estimate efficiency measures of performance for a sample of Panamanian public hospitals over an 11‐year period (2005–2015) using both traditional methods (DEA and SFA) and compare them with efficiencies estimated with an alternative approach, the so‐called StoNED (stochastic semi‐nonparametric envelopment of data), which combines the virtues of those methods in a unified framework. One of the most interesting features of the public health system in Panama is that it is segmented, as hospitals are operating under two parallel management schemes (the Ministry of Health and the Social Security Fund), thus in our empirical analysis we will also focus on exploring the differences between hospitals operating under each regime. Our results show that there are certain divergences in the efficiency scores estimated with different methodologies, but for all of them it is possible to detect that Panamanian hospitals experienced a clear decrease in their efficiency levels throughout the period evaluated, being this much higher in the hospitals belonging to the Social Security Fund.
Marine ecoregions and subecoregions within Indo‐West Australian waters: A statistical approach based on species distributions
Authors: Hadiyanto Hadiyanto , Hovey Renae K. , Glasby Christopher J. , Prince Jane 
Published: June 2021

AbstractAimThe Marine Ecoregions of the World (MEOW) system delineates the oceans into 232 ecoregions. Here, we aimed to evaluate the suitability of this system to represent species distributions within Indo‐West Australian waters, explore alternative ecoregions and new subecoregions and investigate environmental variables that are correlated with species distributions within those waters.LocationIndo‐West Australia.TaxonVertebrates, invertebrates, marine plants.MethodsWe downloaded occurrence data for 14,513 marine species from the Ocean Biogeographic Information System. We analysed differences in species composition among nine ecoregions within Indo‐West Australian waters using pairwise permutational multivariate analysis of variance to evaluate how well the MEOW system represents species distributions within those waters. We delineated subecoregions within each distinct ecoregion using hierarchical cluster analysis with the unweighted pair‐group method using arithmetic averages. We analysed relationships between environmental variables and species composition using distance‐based linear models.ResultsSpecies composition was significantly different among ecoregions, except for three adjacent regions, which were combined into a single large ecoregion. Hence, seven distinct ecoregions were further analysed. Our study identified 13 subecoregions within these ecoregions that each separate into ‘inshore’ and ‘offshore’ zones. Depth explained the most variation in species composition of the combined taxa and sea surface temperature was the most important parameter in explaining the variability in most taxa.Main ConclusionThe MEOW system did not represent well the distribution of marine species within Indo‐West Australian waters. Alternatively, we show that those waters encompass seven distinct ecoregions with 13 subecoregions. The main environmental drivers of species distributions could be depth and sea surface temperature. The proposed ecoregions and subecoregions allow us to improve the biogeographic hypotheses for understanding the evolution of marine species and identify representative marine habitats and species composition for the setting of Marine Protected Area networks within Indo‐West Australian waters.