bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First record of miracine parasitoid wasps (Hymenoptera: Braconidae) from Australia: molecular phylogenetics and morphology reveal multiple new species
Authors: Slater‐Baker Mollie‐Rosae , Austin Andrew D , Whitfield James B , Fagan‐Jeffries Erinn P
Published: February 2022

Miracinae are a small subfamily of parasitoid wasps that are under‐represented in collections and that have yet to be formally recorded from Australia. Bayesian and maximum likelihood phylogenetic analyses were performed using the barcoding region of cytochrome c oxidase subunit I (COI) from 11 miracine specimens collected throughout Australia, along with extralimital miracine COI sequences from the Barcode of Life Database (BOLD). Of 14 miracine sequences from Australia, 11 distinct species were identified at a 2% pairwise difference threshold. Four of these species, for which female specimens were available for morphological examination, are here described: Mirax arcisensis Slater‐Baker & Fagan‐Jeffries sp. nov., Mirax caelicus Slater‐Baker & Fagan‐Jeffries sp. nov., Mirax cowellensis Slater‐Baker & Fagan‐Jeffries sp. nov. and Mirax trianguliceps Slater‐Baker & Fagan‐Jeffries sp. nov. Although specimens are apparently rare in collections, these results suggest that the continent may have a much larger endemic miracine fauna and highlights the need for additional work on the subfamily in Australia. Further studies on the taxonomy and biology of Australian miracines could have important implications for conservation and may reveal opportunities for biological control strategies against leaf‐mining pests.
Anogenital distance, male factor infertility and time to pregnancy
Authors: Madvig Fie , Pedersen Marc Künkel , Urhoj Stine Kjær , Bräuner Elvira Vaclavik , Jørgensen Niels , Priskorn Lærke
Published: February 2022

Background

Anogenital distance (AGD), the distance between the anus and genitals, is in rodents a well‐established marker of early androgen action and has been suggested to be so in humans as well. Thus, a link between human AGD and semen quality and potentially fecundity may exist.

Objective

The aim of this study was to assess the association between AGD and male factor infertility and among proven fertile men also time to pregnancy (TTP).

Material and methods

All included men were recruited from and examined at Copenhagen University Hospital ‐ Rigshospitalet, Denmark (N = 388). Men with impaired semen quality were included from infertile couples (N = 128), and men with naturally conceived pregnant partners were invited to participate when their partners had their routine second trimester examination (N = 260). All men underwent a physical examination, completed a questionnaire (including TTP for the fertile men), delivered a semen sample and had a blood sample drawn. The primary exposure was AGDAS measured from the centre of the anus to the posterior base of the scrotum. Associations between AGD and fertility status as well as between AGD and TTP among the fertile men were calculated using multiple logistic regression adjusted for covariates.

Results

AGD did not show a statistically significant association with fertility status. In adjusted logistic regression models, the odds of infertility per 1 cm increase in AGDAS were 1.02 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.88; 1.19). Among fertile men, a 1‐cm increase in AGDAS was associated with an 8% non‐statistically significantly reduced odds of having a longer (>3months) TTP (adjusted odds ratio (OR) = 0.92, 95% CI: 0.76–1.11).

Conclusion

Our study showed that the clinical application of AGD as a predictor of fertility and fecundity seems to be limited as no associations were observed between AGD and fertility status, nor was the decreased risk of experiencing a longer TTP with longer AGDAS statistically significant.
Review article: switching patients with chronic hepatitis B to tenofovir alafenamide—a review of current data
Authors: Lim Young‐Suk , Seto Wai‐Kay , Kurosaki Masayuki , Fung Scott , Kao Jia‐Horng , Hou Jinlin , Gordon Stuart C. , Flaherty John F. , Yee Leland J. , Zhao Yang , Agarwal Kosh , Lampertico Pietro
Published: February 2022

Background

The nucleos(t)ide analogues (NAs) entecavir (ETV), tenofovir disoproxil fumarate (TDF) and tenofovir alafenamide (TAF) are preferred treatment options for patients with chronic hepatitis B infection (CHB). However, resistance to ETV has been reported, especially with prior exposure to other NAs, and long‐term TDF treatment has been associated with decline in renal function and loss of bone mineral density in some patients. Consequently, TAF may be preferable to ETV, TDF or other NAs in specific circumstances such as in patients with risk of bone or renal complications, elderly patients or those with previous NA experience.

Aim

To provide a summary of the available efficacy and safety data following switch to TAF from other NAs in patients with CHB in clinical studies and real‐world settings.

Methods

Literature searches were performed on PubMed and abstracts from three major international liver congresses between 2019 and 2021. Studies that included efficacy and/or safety data for patients with CHB switching from any NA to TAF were selected.

Results

Thirty‐six papers and abstracts were included in this narrative review. Switching from TDF to TAF maintained or improved virological and biochemical responses with improved bone and renal safety. Switching from ETV or other NAs to TAF maintained or improved virological and biochemical responses and varying results for bone and renal safety.

Conclusions

Switching to TAF appears to maintain or improve virological, biochemical and bone‐ and renal‐related safety outcomes. These data support the concept of switching to TAF in some patients with CHB based on their individual circumstances.
Making a living in the diverse economy of concrete: Commoning in a contested quarry
Authors: Placino Pryor , Gibson Katherine
Published: February 2022

The rapid expansion of urban development in Asia over the last 50 years has seen a rise in demand for building materials. From large construction companies to squatter settlers seeking to improve their housing, concrete is the building material of choice. In the Philippines there is plentiful supply of the limestone and aggregate (sand and gravel) required for concrete production. Alongside the large quarries owned by major corporations are small, often illegal quarries, supplying aggregate to the construction industry. In these shadow places informal miners scratch out a precarious livelihood. They are members of a vast artisanal and small‐scale mining (ASM) workforce that is global in extent. This paper situates informal aggregate mining in the diverse economy of concrete in the Philippines and within the context of global ASM studies. With a detailed study of one quarry on the edges of Metro Manila, it reveals how mining contributes to the survival portfolio of poor households. Without romanticising the lives of quarry labourers, we identify a range of negotiations by which informal miners create a community of commoners in a contested quarry site. This research provides insight into the capacities that informal miners could bring to designing more sustainable development pathways within and beyond the extractive industry.
Increasing rates of urinary and bloodstream infections following transrectal prostate biopsy in South Sweden
Authors: Ljungquist Oskar , Persmark Ale , Grabe Magnus , Jakobsen Ane Krag , Gerdtsson Axel , Torisson Gustav , Bjartell Anders , Riesbeck Kristian
Published: February 2022

Objective

To report trends and characteristics of post‐prostate biopsy (PBx) infections, with regard to aetiology and resistance patterns, in a large unique cohort from a single‐centre using the same antibiotic prophylactic regimens during a 15‐year period.

Patients and Methods

An observational cross‐sectional cohort study, including all patients who underwent transrectal ultrasonography‐guided PBx (TRUS PBx) for the suspicion of prostate cancer at the Department of Urology, Skåne University Hospital between 1 May 2003 and 31 December 2017. Positive blood and urinary cultures were considered markers of bloodstream infection (BSI) and urinary tract infection (UTI), respectively. For all patients, details regarding blood or urine cultures from the date of the TRUS PBx and 14 days onwards were retrieved.

Results

In total, 8973 TRUS PBx procedures were performed in 6597 men during the study period. Over time, there was a trend towards a changing case‐mix, with PBx procedures increasingly being performed in older patients, patients with lower prostate‐specific antigen values, and higher prostate volumes. During the study period, the number of PBx procedures performed increased for each time period and we found an increasing rate of infectious complications in the last period. Overall, the rates of BSI and UTI with at least one relevant pathogen were 1% (88/8973) and 1.8% (159/8973), respectively. In total, 16 of 90 strains (18%) were extended spectrum beta‐lactamases producing, with an increasing proportion over time. The proportion of ciprofloxacin‐resistant pathogens did not increase over time.

Conclusion

During the 15 years of this study, BSI and UTI after TRUS PBx increased. The rise of infectious complications after TRUS PBx in this population is unlikely to be explained by quinolone‐resistance, as ciprofloxacin‐resistance did not increase in the blood and urinary samples obtained during the study period. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to investigate why infectious complications after TRUS PBx are increasing.
Responsivity of serotonin transporter knockout rats to short and long access to cocaine: Modulation of the glutamate signalling in the nucleus accumbens shell
Authors: Caffino Lucia , Mottarlini Francesca , Targa Giorgia , Verheij Michel M. M. , Fumagalli Fabio , Homberg Judith R.
Published: February 2022

Background and Purpose

It has been well established that glutamate in the nucleus accumbens (NAc) plays a critical role in the motivation to take drugs of abuse. We have previously demonstrated that rats with ablation of the serotonin transporter (SERT−/− rats) show increased cocaine intake reminiscent of compulsivity.

Experimental Approach

By comparing SERT−/− to SERT+/+ rats, we investigated whether SERT deletion influences glutamate homeostasis under control conditions as well as after short access (ShA: 1 h per session) or long access (LgA: 6 h per session) to cocaine self‐administration. Rats were killed at 24 h after the last self‐administration session for ex vivo molecular analyses of the main determinants of the glutamate system, including transporters (vesicular and glial), receptors (main post‐synaptic subunits of NMDA and AMPA receptors together with the metabotropic subunit mGLUR5), and scaffolding proteins (SAP102, SAP97, and GRIP) in the NAc shell (sNAc)

Key Results

In cocaine‐naive animals, SERT deletion was associated with changes indicative for a reduction in glutamate signalling. ShA and LgA exposure led to a further dysregulation of the glutamatergic synapse.

Conclusion

SERT deletion may render the glutamatergic synapses of the NAc shell more responsive to both ShA and LgA intake of cocaine.
Pandemics through the lens of occupations
Authors: Chopra Anand , Devereux Michael B. , Lahiri Amartya
Published: February 2022

We outline a macro‐pandemic model where individuals can select into working from home or in the market. Market work increases the risk of infection. Occupations differ in the ease of substitution between market and home work and in the risk of infection. We examine the evolution of a pandemic in the model as well as its macroeconomic and distributional consequences. The model is calibrated to British Columbian data to examine the implications of shutting down different industries by linking industries to occupations. We find that endogenous choice to self‐isolate is key: it reduces the peak weekly infection rate by two percentage points but reduces the trough consumption level by four percentage points, even without policy‐mandated lockdowns. The model also produces widening consumption inequality, a fact that has characterized COVID‐19.
Modified Le Fort I interpositional grafting of the severe atrophied maxilla—a retrospective study of 106 patients over 10 years
Authors: Abraha Sophia Mulugeta , Geng Yuan‐Ming , Naujokat Hendrik , Terheyden Hendrik
Published: February 2022

Objectives

The objective of this study was to evaluate a modified Le Fort I interpositional grafting followed by dental implants for the rehabilitation of edentulous atrophied maxillae (Cawood classes IV and V). The surgical modification was a bilateral sinus floor augmentation prior to the osteotomy. This generated a closed recipient bed which allowed the use of particulated bone grafts (xenogenic bone mineral) and a reduced amount of autologous iliac bone grafts.

Materials and Methods

A total of 106 patients with maxillary interpositional bone grafts were included in this retrospective analysis between 2006 and 2020. The panoramic radiographs and lateral cephalograms were analyzed to assess the gain and stability of the maxillary bone and the peri‐implant bone loss. In addition, the observational period of up to 14 years implant survival and success was evaluated.

Results

A stable vertical bone height with mean 0.63 ± 1.41 mm resorption over 5 years after implant loading was observed. A mean of 0.20 ± 0.37 mm marginal bone loss was noted after 5 years. The implant survival was 96.4% after 5 years and implant success can be rated 91.7% in a mean follow‐up period of 93 months and 168 months maximal observation time. Perioperative complications included sinus membrane perforation (59.43%), wound healing disturbances (25.47%), and transient primary complications (13.78%). All receded apart from two subtotal graft losses (1.8%).

Conclusions

The modified Le Fort I osteotomy with interpositional bone grafts is a predictable procedure in terms of bone and implant stability. Patients with atrophic maxillae who are fit for surgery should be informed about risks and benefits of this treatment alternative.
Retracted: Artificial intelligence for public perception of drones as a tool for telecommunication technologies
Authors: Alluhaidan Ala Saleh
Published: February 2022

Drones, a small aviation craft that can hold sensors and be directed to certain locations, have been explored and utilized in domains such as public safety, traffic monitoring, and healthcare. Yet, the scientific research of drone usage still in progress. This article investigates the following: (1) how the public perceives a drone as a healthcare tool, and (2) what the concerns are of public acceptance of drones in healthcare. A qualitative approach with demographic questions such as participants' age, education level, current knowledge of drones, as well as willingness to learn about the technology was used. The contribution is to have an understanding of how the public perceives drones. The results can be used in enhancing public views of drones through skilled personnel and an educated workforce. In a conservative community such as Saudi Arabia, the public holds a relatively positive attitude towards drones. Respondents are aware of such technology from different sources, mainly TV news. Informants also did show a decent level of perceived beneficial usage of drones in healthcare. There are few participants who disclosed concerns of safety, security, and privacy for the usage of drones in healthcare due to a lack of knowledge about the technology. The results propose that government and industry stakeholders should invest more in increasing public awareness of technology. Media coverage will likely influence the public view and help the community move forward.
High cardiovascular risk in older patients with opioid use disorder: Differences with the general population
Authors: Vallecillo Gabriel , Pedro‐Botet Juan , Fernandez Silvia , Román Irene , Elosua Roberto , Camps Anna , Torrens Marta , Marrugat Jaume
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Cardiovascular disease is a health concern in ageing population with opioid use disorders (OUD). The study aims to analyse the cardiovascular risk factors in individuals with OUD.

Methods

An observational study was carried out to compare cardiovascular risk factors of adults >50 years with OUD on methadone therapy from public outpatient drug treatment centres, with that of an age‐ and gender‐matched sample (ratio of 1:5) of subjects from a sample of the Spanish population (REGICOR cohort). High cardiovascular risk (HCVR) at 10 years was defined according to Framingham‐REGICOR and SCORE risk functions.

Results

The individuals studied included 94 people with OUD and 495 from the general population; the mean age was 55.7 ± 4.8 years and 432 (72.7%) were men. Obesity (21.2% vs. 35.2%), hypertension (26.3% vs. 42.1%), total cholesterol (30.3% vs. 65.4%) and LDL‐cholesterol ≥130 mg/dL (27.2% vs. 59.3%) were significantly more prevalent in the general population group, while tobacco smoking (96.0% vs. 25.9%), low HDL‐cholesterol (46.5% vs. 21.2%), hypertriglyceridaemia (39.4% vs. 18.8%) and atherogenic dyslipidaemia (30.3% vs. 10.5%) were significantly higher in individuals with OUD. Differences in abdominal obesity (62.6% vs. 65.3%) were not significant. HCVR was more prevalent in patients with OUD: 15.2% versus 5.8% (Framingham‐REGICOR function) and 21.2% versus 11.3% (SCORE function).

Discussion and Conclusions

Older adults with OUD on methadone therapy have a different prevalence of cardiovascular risk factors and HCVR than the general population. Preventive measures, particularly tobacco smoking cessation and weight control, should be included in the routine care of individuals with OUD.
An observational approach for exploring variability in young children's regulation‐related skills within classroom contexts
Authors: McCoy Dana Charles , Koepp Andrew E. , Jones Stephanie M. , Bodrova Elena , Leong Deborah J. , Deaver Abigail Hemenway
Published: February 2022

Prior work has conceptualized children's executive function and self‐regulation skills as relatively stable across short periods of time. Grounded in long‐standing contextual theories of human development, this study introduces a new observational tool for measuring children's regulatory skills across different naturally occurring situations within early childhood classrooms. Using 460 observations of 91 children (M age = 5.54 years) in 16 socio‐demographically diverse Prekindergarten and Kindergarten classrooms, we found that this tool—the Regulation‐Related Skills Measure (RRSM)—reliably captured observed dimensions of young children's attention control and inhibitory control, but failed to appropriately represent more “internal” regulatory processes (e.g., working memory). Associations between the RRSM and other measures of children's executive function and self‐regulation (i.e., direct assessments, adult reports) were low to moderate (r = 0.03 to 0.44), suggesting these tools are likely to be complementary in that they provide overlapping but ultimately distinct information regarding children's regulatory performance. Finally, results suggested substantial within‐child variation in regulatory behaviors across different situations within the classroom, with the same children demonstrating consistently stronger attention control and inhibitory control during transitions than during either teacher‐ or student‐directed activities. These findings underscore the situationally‐dependent nature of children's self‐regulatory performance, with implications for both theory and practice. Future research is needed to replicate these findings in more diverse, representative samples of children.
‘CARE compliance’ of case reports published in Dental Traumatology in the past two decades: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Tewari Nitesh , Goel Shubhi , Srivastav Sukeshana , Mathur Vijay Prakash , Rahul Morankar , Chaurasia Bikash , Raghuthaman Sruthila
Published: February 2022

Background/Aims

The journal Dental Traumatology (DT) is one of the best resources in the field of dental traumatology. It has always encouraged publication of case reports of good quality. The CARE statement (2011) was developed for uniform and transparent reporting of cases in medical sciences. Since case reports are inseparable from the DT literature, the aim of this bibliometric‐analysis was to evaluate the case reports published in the DT in the last two decades (2001–2021) and assess their compliance regarding CARE guidelines for elucidating the trends in DT and the reporting quality of these papers.

Methodology

Two authors independently observed the tables of contents in all issues of DT from 2002–2021 and identified case reports. Selected articles were scrutinized to determine their eligibility. Data extraction was performed, case reports were segregated into domains, and their CARE compliance was evaluated by using a self‐designed‐validated method. Differences between the case reports published in two decades (2002–2011 and 2012–2021) were analysed with the Chi‐square test.

Results

A total of 1612 articles published between February 2002 and October 2021 were scrutinized to identify 357 case reports with 277 from the period of 2002–2011 and 80 between 2012 and 2021. The highest number of case reports originated from Asia (2002–2011:135, 2012–2021:28). The CARE compliances of the majority of reports in the decade of 2002–2011 were between 75 and 85% (good) while the CARE compliances of the majority of reports from 2012–2021 were between 85 and 95% (very good) or >95% (excellent). These differences were statistically significant (p < .005).

Conclusions

The number of case reports published in the decade of 2002–2011 were more than three times the number of case reports published in the decade of 2012–2021. The highest number of reports in both decades were from Asia and belonged to the therapeutic and prognostic domains. The CARE compliances of the reports in the decade of 2012–2021 were better than those from 2002–2011.
Aryl hydrocarbon receptor/nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (AHR/NRF2) signalling: A novel therapeutic target for atopic dermatitis
Authors: Hwang Jonwei , Newton Edita M. , Hsiao Jennifer , Shi Vivian Y.
Published: February 2022

Aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AHR)/nuclear factor‐erythroid 2‐related factor 2 (NRF2) modulation is emerging as novel targets in the treatment of atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory skin disorders. Agonist activation of this pathway has downstream effects on epidermal barrier function, immunomodulation, oxidative stress reduction and cutaneous microbiome modulation. Tapinarof, a dual agonist of the AHR/NRF2 signalling pathway, has shown promise in phase 2 trials for atopic dermatitis. In this review, we summarize current knowledge of the AHR/NRF2 pathway and implications in skin disease process. We also review the therapeutic potential of current AHR agonists and propose future directions to address knowledge gaps.
Managing fisheries for maximum nutrient yield
Authors: Robinson James P.W. , Nash Kirsty L. , Blanchard Julia L. , Jacobsen Nis S. , Maire Eva , Graham Nicholas A.J. , MacNeil M. Aaron , Zamborain‐Mason Jessica , Allison Edward H. , Hicks Christina C.
Published: February 2022

Wild‐caught fish are a bioavailable source of nutritious food that, if managed strategically, could enhance diet quality for billions of people. However, optimising nutrient production from the sea has not been a priority, hindering development of nutrition‐sensitive policies. With fisheries management increasingly effective at rebuilding stocks and regulating sustainable fishing, we can now begin to integrate nutritional outcomes within existing management frameworks. Here, we develop a conceptual foundation for managing fisheries for multispecies Maximum Nutrient Yield (mMNY). We empirically test our approach using size‐based models of North Sea and Baltic Sea fisheries and show that mMNY is predicted by the relative contribution of nutritious species to total catch and their vulnerability to fishing, leading to trade‐offs between catch and specific nutrients. Simulated nutrient yield curves suggest that vitamin D, which is deficient in Northern European diets, was underfished at fishing levels that returned maximum catch weights. Analysis of global catch data shows there is scope for nutrient yields from most of the world's marine fisheries to be enhanced through nutrient‐sensitive fisheries management. With nutrient composition data now widely available, we expect our mMNY framework to motivate development of nutrient‐based reference points in specific contexts, such as data‐limited fisheries. Managing for mMNY alongside policies that promote access to fish could help close nutrient gaps for coastal populations, maximising the contribution of wild‐caught fish to global food and nutrition security.
No evidence for a negative effect of growing season photosynthesis on leaf senescence timing
Authors: Lu Xinchen , Keenan Trevor F.
Published: February 2022

The length of the growing season has a large influence on the carbon, water, and energy fluxes of global terrestrial ecosystems. While there has been mounting evidence of an advanced start of the growing season mostly due to elevated spring air temperatures, the mechanisms that control the end of the growing season (EOS) in most ecosystems remain relatively less well understood. Recently, a strong lagged control of EOS by growing season photosynthesis has been proposed, suggesting that more productive growing seasons lead to an earlier EOS. However, this relationship has not been extensively tested with in‐situ observations across a variety of ecosystems. Here, we use observations from 40 eddy‐covariance flux tower sites in temperate and boreal ecosystems in the northern hemisphere with more than 10 years of observations (594 site‐years), ground observations of phenology, satellite observations from the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS), and three leaf senescence models to test the extent of a relationship between growing season photosynthesis and end of season senescence. The results suggest that there is no significant negative relationship between growing season photosynthesis and observed leaf senescence, flux‐inferred EOS estimates, or remotely sensed phenological metrics, in most ecosystems. On the contrary, while we found negative effects of summer air temperatures and autumn vapor pressure deficit on EOS, more productive growing seasons were typically related to a later, not earlier, EOS. Our results challenge recent reports of carry‐over effects of photosynthesis on EOS timing, and suggest those results may not hold over a large range of ecosystems.
Mycorrhizal fungi alleviate acidification‐induced phosphorus limitation: Evidence from a decade‐long field experiment of simulated acid deposition in a tropical forest in south China
Authors: Hu Yuanliu , Chen Ji , Hui Dafeng , Wang Ying‐Ping , Li Jianling , Chen Jingwen , Chen Guoyin , Zhu Yiren , Zhang Leiyi , Zhang Deqiang , Deng Qi
Published: February 2022

South China has been experiencing very high rate of acid deposition and severe soil acidification in recent decades, which has been proposed to exacerbate the regional ecosystem phosphorus (P) limitation. We conducted a 10‐year field experiment of simulated acid deposition to examine how acidification impacts seasonal changes of different soil P fractions in a tropical forest with highly acidic soils in south China. As expected, acid addition significantly increased occluded P pool but reduced the other more labile P pools in the dry season. In the wet season, however, acid addition did not change microbial P, soluble P and labile organic P pools. Acid addition significantly increased exchangeable Al3+ and Fe3+ and the activation of Fe oxides in both seasons. Different from the decline of microbial abundance in the dry season, acid addition increased ectomycorrhizal fungi and its ratio to arbuscular mycorrhiza fungi in the wet season, which significantly stimulated phosphomonoesterase activities and likely promoted the dissolution of occluded P. Our results suggest that, even in already highly acidic soils, the acidification‐induced P limitation could be alleviated by stimulating ectomycorrhizal fungi and phosphomonoesterase activities. The differential responses and microbial controls of seasonal soil P transformation revealed here should be implemented into ecosystem biogeochemical model for predicting plant productivity under future acid deposition scenarios.
Widespread recent changes in morphology of Old World birds, global warming the immediate suspect
Authors: Dubiner Shahar , Meiri Shai
Published: February 2022

Aim

A decline in body size has been proposed as a universal response to global warming, but this is often questioned. We describe and characterize recent morphological changes in the avifauna of Israel as a whole and test several hypotheses regarding their cause.

Location

Israel.

Time period

1950–2020.

Major taxa studied

Aves.

Methods

 We analysed the morphology of 7,981 museum specimens. For each of the 106 species, we calculated the rate of change in mass, head and body length, wing length and approximate relative surface area, both over time and as a function of temperature anomaly (the difference between temperatures in a given year and the interannual average). We used phylogenetic generalized linear mixed models (PGLMMs) to determine trends and their relationship to the ecology of species.

Results

Over the last 70 years there have been consistent changes through time in mass, length and surface area‐to‐volume ratio. Mass decreased by 18.3%, length increased by 5.1%, and surface area‐to‐volume ratio increased by 28.9%. The increase in the ratio of surface area to volume through time corresponds to a 12.2% increase per degree Celsius of warming. In contrast, changes in wing length were few and inconsistent. Most species changed in either mass or length, but seldom in both. The effect of rising temperature on morphology was roughly an order of magnitude stronger than the effect of a comparable geographical difference in habitat temperature. Changes were modulated by migratory habits but not explained by human commensalism or diet.

Main conclusions

A decrease in mass and increase in length are widespread, both leading to higher relative surface area. Results conform with predicted responses to global warming, but not with any of our other tested hypotheses. If warming is the driver of these changes, the diverging responses observed between different species might represent different solutions to solve a common problem.
Retooling governance for improving public service delivery: Case study of right to public services commission, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan
Authors: Khawaja Sarfraz , Khalid Saif Ullah
Published: February 2022

This study analyzes the public service delivery system in the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa province of Pakistan following the 2014 enactment of the “Right to Services Act.” It adopts a case study approach, primarily based on qualitative interviews and focus group discussions, to examine the lessons learned as part of this Act's aim to improve governance. The study finds that accountability is key for measuring the public delivery of services and that the Right to Public Services Act and its corresponding Commission take steps to ensure good governance and public service delivery in the province. Although, this law is still in its embryonic stage, it has already significantly improved the delivery of the targeted services, and it has activated a system of checks and balances in public sector departments to enhance their performance and accountability.
Mapping the role of patient and public involvement during the different stages of healthcare innovation: A scoping review
Authors: Cluley Victoria , Ziemann Alexandra , Feeley Claire , Olander Ellinor K. , Shamah Shani , Stavropoulou Charitini
Published: February 2022

Background

Patient and public involvement (PPI) has become increasingly important in the development, delivery and improvement of healthcare. PPI is used in healthcare innovation; yet, how it is used has been under‐reported. The aim of this scoping review is to identify and map the current available empirical evidence on the role of PPI during different stages of healthcare innovation.

Methods

The scoping review was conducted in accordance with PRISMAScR and included any study published in a peer‐reviewed journal between 2004 and 2021 that reported on PPI in healthcare innovation within any healthcare setting or context in any country. The following databases were searched: Medline, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycInfo, HMIC and Google Scholar. We included any study type, including quantitative, qualitative and mixed‐method studies. We excluded theoretical frameworks, conceptual, scientific or grey literature as well as discussion and opinion papers.

Results

Of the 87 included studies, 81 (93%) focused on or were conducted by authors in developed countries. A wide range of conditions were considered, with more studies focusing on mental health (n = 18, 21%) and cancer care (n = 8, 9%). The vast majority of the studies focused on process and service innovations (n = 62, 71%). Seven studies focused on technological and clinical innovations (8%), while 12 looked at both technological and service innovations (14%). Only five studies examined systems innovation (5%) and one study looked across all types of innovations (1%). PPI is more common in the earlier stages of innovation, particularly problem identification and invention, in comparison to adoption and diffusion.

Conclusion

Healthcare innovation tends to be a lengthy process. Yet, our study highlights that PPI is more common across earlier stages of innovation and focuses mostly on service innovation. Stronger PPI in later stages could support the adoption and diffusion of innovation.

Patient or Public Contribution

One of the coauthors of the paper (S. S.) is a service user with extensive experience in PPI research. S. S. supported the analysis and writing up of the paper.
Seeking a deeper understanding of ‘distributed health literacy’: A systematic review
Authors: Muscat Danielle M. , Gessler Danielle , Ayre Julie , Norgaard Ole , Heuck Iben R. , Haar Stefanie , Maindal Helle T.
Published: February 2022

Background

Previous research suggests that it would be useful to view health literacy as a set of ‘distributed competencies’, which can be found dispersed through the individual's social network, rather than an exclusively individual attribute. However, to date there is no focused exploration of how distributed health literacy has been defined, conceptualized or assessed in the peer‐reviewed literature.

Aims

This systematic review aimed to explore: (1) definitions and conceptual models of distributed health literacy that are available from the peer‐reviewed literature; and (2) how distributed health literacy has been measured in empirical research.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL, PsycInfo, Scopus, ERIC and Web of Science using truncated versions of the keywords ‘literacy’ and ‘distributed’ (within five words' distance). We collated the definitions and conceptual models of distributed health literacy, and report on how health literacy has been measured in empirical research studies. Findings related to distributed health literacy from included manuscripts were synthesized using thematic synthesis.

Results

Of the 642 studies screened, 10 were included in this systematic review. The majority were empirical manuscripts reporting on qualitative research in one of five countries, with two reviews, one conceptual analysis and one quantitative study. Edwards' definition of distributed health literacy, which emphasizes the health literacy abilities, skills and practices of others that contribute to an individual's level of health literacy was widely applied in a variety of clinical and geographical settings. However, we did not identify any quantitative instruments which directly measured distributed health literacy. There was significant variability in questions used to explore the concept qualitatively, and discrepancies across studies in regard to (a) what constitutes distributed health literacy and what does not (e.g., general social support), and (b) the relationship between distributed health literacy and other constructs (e.g., public health literacy).

Conclusion

Although there is a widely applied definition of distributed health literacy, our review revealed that the research space would benefit from the development of the concept, both theoretically for example via conceptual distinctions between distributed health literacy and other types of social support, and empirically for example through the development of a quantitative measurement instrument.

Patient or Public Contribution

This paper is a systematic review and did not involve patients or the public.
Trends in antiretroviral use in pregnancy in the UK and Ireland, 2008–2018
Authors: Rasi Virginia , Peters Helen , Sconza Rebecca , Francis Kate , Bukasa Laurette , Thorne Claire , Cortina‐Borja Mario
Published: February 2022

Introduction

HIV treatment recommendations have evolved over time, reflecting both growing availability of new antiretrovirals and accumulating evidence on their safe and effective use. We analysed patterns of antiretroviral use among diagnosed pregnant women living with HIV delivering in the UK and Ireland between 2008 and 2018 using national surveillance data.

Methods

All singleton pregnancies with known outcomes and known timing of antiretroviral initiation reported to the National Surveillance of HIV in Pregnancy and Childhood were included. Every individual instance of specific antiretroviral use was the unit of analysis in generating a snapshot of antiretroviral use overall and over calendar time. The final analysis was restricted to the 14 most frequently prescribed antiretrovirals.

Results

There were 12 099 singleton pregnancies reported during 2008–2018 and a total of 38 214 individual uses of the 14 most commonly prescribed antiretrovirals, the majority of which were started before conception (70.9%). In 2008, 37.7% (482/1279) of pregnancies were conceived under treatment, reaching 80.9% (509/629) by 2018. Patterns of antiretroviral use have changed over time, particularly for third agents. Between 2008 and 2018 the most frequently used protease inhibitor shifted from lopinavir to darunavir, whereas use of integrase inhibitors increased steadily over time.

Conclusions

These national surveillance data enable investigation of the ‘real‐world’ use of antiretrovirals in pregnancy on a population level. Findings demonstrate mixed responsiveness of antiretroviral prescription to changes in pregnancy guideline recommendations and may also reflect changes in commissioning and in the characteristics of pregnant women living with HIV.
Construction of magnetic switchable Pickering interfacial catalysis system and its application in the hydrolysis of crude rice bran oil
Authors: Cheng Jie , Wang Ning , Li Na , Zhou Xiaonan , Yu Dianyu , Jiang Lianzhou
Published: February 2022

The high refining cost of traditional rice bran oil with high acid value and its large environmental impact have limited its further application. In this study, a lipase‐catalysed hydrolysis reaction of crude rice bran oil at the oil–water interface was performed using a Pickering emulsion system stabilised by modified magnetic microcrystalline cellulose (MMC) particles. The results revealed that the modified MMC particles exhibited a rod‐like structure, and a contact angle of 84.8°. In addition, the stability of the Pickering emulsion can be enhanced when the modified MMC was used as an emulsifier, and at an optimal addition amount of 2.0wt.%. The saturation magnetisation value of the emulsifier decreased from 38.8 to 8.9 emu g−1 after 12 reuses. Furthermore, the hydrolysis rates of crude rice bran oil in the Pickering emulsion system and a two‐phase system at a Candida antarctica lipase B (CALB) content of 2mg mL−1 were 92.8% and 58.8%, respectively. In addition, the relative activity of CALB after 10 reuses was 71.8%. These findings provide a sustainable interface biocatalysis method and provide ideas for the rational development of high acid value oils.
Testing predictions of a neural process model of visual attention in infancy across competitive and non‐competitive contexts
Authors: Spencer John P. , Ross‐Sheehy Shannon , Eschman Bret
Published: February 2022

A key question in early development is how changes in neural systems give rise to changes in infants' behavior. We examine this question by testing predictions of a dynamic field (DF) model of infant spatial attention. We tested 5‐, 7‐, and 10‐month‐old infants in the Infant Orienting With Attention (IOWA) task containing the original non‐competitive cue conditions (when a central stimulus disappeared before a cue onset) and new competitive cue conditions (when a central stimulus remained visible throughout the trial). This allowed testing of five model predictions: (1) that orienting accuracy would be higher and (2) reaction times would be slower for all competitive conditions; (3) that all infants would be slower to orient in the competitive conditions, though (4) older infants would show the strongest competition costs; and (5) that reaction times would be particularly slow for un‐cued competitive conditions. Four of these five predictions were supported, and the remaining prediction was supported in part. We next examined fits of the model to the expanded task. New simulation results reveal close fits to the present findings after parameter modification. Critically, developmental parameters of the model were not altered, providing support for the DF model's account of neuro‐developmental change.
Positive QRS complex in limb lead 2 with negative QRS in lead 3 on surface electrocardiogram: A novel predictor for anterior location of right‐sided accessory pathways (10−1 o'clock on tricuspid annulus)
Authors: Bera Debabrata , Mukherjee Sanjeev S. , Majumder Suchit , Sikdar Sunandan , Dasgupta Koushik , Kar Ayan , Kathuria Sanjeev , Sarkar Rakesh
Published: February 2022

Background

Localization of atrioventricular accessory pathways (AP) from Electrocardiogram (ECG) is crucial for successful ablation. We analyzed the value of limb lead 2 versus 3 QRS vector discordance on surface ECG among right‐sided pathways.

Methods

Data from consecutive patients undergoing successful ablation of manifest AP were analyzed. They were categorized into two groups—Gr I: Endocardial ablation from anterior and anterolateral tricuspid annulus (TA, 10−1 o'clock, right anterolateral [RAL]); Gr II: Ablation outside this region (1−10 o'clock of TA). Inferior lead discordance (ILD) was defined as positive QRS complex (monophasic R, Rs) in lead 2 with negative/equiphasic QRS vector in lead 3 (rS, S, RS). Maximally pre‐excited ECGs during electrophysiology study were compared for presence of ILD.

Result

Among total 22 cases (Age 36 ± 18 years, 12 males), ILD was noted in 4/4 cases of Gr I. It was absent among 17/18 cases of right‐sided AP in Gr II. The only case in Gr II having ILD was ablated near 8 o'clock (posterolateral). In contrast to the other four cases, aVF was negative, along with lead 3. A close differential was mid‐septal AP (MSAP). However, the MSAP had absence of r in V1 and lead 2 having rS/RS complex in contrast to strongly positive QRS in RAL pathways. The sensitivity and specificity of ILD for RAL are 100% and 95%, respectively. The positive, negative predictive value, and accuracy are 80%, 100%, and 95%, respectively.

Conclusion

Positive QRS complex in lead 2 with negative QRS in lead 3 in maximally pre‐excited ECG is often predictive of anterior and anterolateral location among right‐sided pathways.
Dermo‐cosmetic spray containing Rhealba oat plantlets and Uncaria tomentosa extract in patients with mild‐to‐moderate cutaneous pain
Authors: Stockman A. , Belpaire A. , Hadshiew I.M. , Žemličkova M. , Vergou T. , Navarro Triviño F. , Márquez García A. , Vasco M. , Vazharova B.K. , Carballido F.
Published: February 2022

Background

Chronic cutaneous pain has a substantial negative impact on quality of life (QoL). Dermo‐cosmetics can support therapies for treatment of chronic skin diseases, providing symptomatic relief from chronic cutaneous pain and improved QoL.

Objectives

To assess the global tolerance and efficacy of a dermo‐cosmetic spray containing Rhealba® Oat Plantlet and Uncaria tomentosa extracts in reducing cutaneous pain when used as a monotherapy or in association with drug or dermo‐cosmetic treatments in patients with an underlying skin pathology.

Methods

Patients aged ≥1 month with a cutaneous pain level ≥3 and an underlying skin pathology were provided with the spray to use up to six times daily for 6–8 weeks. Immediate effect on cutaneous pain and patient satisfaction were assessed after the first application. Global efficacy and tolerance, reduction in symptoms, improvement in QoL, pain reduction and patient overall satisfaction were assessed after 6–8 weeks.

Results

Immediately after the first application, significant reductions in cutaneous pain were observed across all age groups (P < 0.0001), with 94% of patients reporting a reduction in pain. After 6–8 weeks, global tolerance was rated ‘very good’ or ‘good’ for 97% of patients, and the spray was efficacious in 95% of patients. Patient satisfaction with the efficacy of the spray was 95%. QoL scores improved in 86% and 94% of patients aged ≥12 and <12 years, respectively. Findings were similar across underlying pathology and therapy types (monotherapy or in association with another therapy).

Conclusions

The spray was well‐tolerated and efficacious in providing symptom relief in patients with mild‐to‐moderate cutaneous pain, irrespective of the underlying pathology or therapy type.
Influence of dietary supplementation of short‐chain fatty acid sodium propionate in people living with HIV (PLHIV)
Authors: Brauckmann V. , Nambiar S. , Potthoff A. , Höxtermann S. , Wach J. , Kayser A. , Tiemann C. , Schuppe A.K. , Brockmeyer N.H. , Skaletz‐Rorowski A.
Published: February 2022

Background

Non‐AIDS‐associated chronic diseases in HIV+ patients have been on the rise since the advent of antiretroviral therapy. Especially cardiovascular diseases and disruption in the gastrointestinal tract have limited health‐related quality of life (QoL). Several of those complications have been associated with chronic systemic inflammation. Short‐chain fatty acids (SCFA), with propionate as one of the major compounds, have been described as an important link between gut microbiota and the immune system, defining the pro‐ and the anti‐inflammatory milieu through direct and indirect regulation of T‐cell homeostasis. The effects of dietary supplementation of sodium propionate (SP) in people living with HIV (PLHIV) have not yet been investigated prior to this study.

Objectives

To investigate the impact of SP uptake among PLHIV and its relevance to improve QoL, the study aimed to investigate metabolic, immunological, microbiome and patient‐reported QoL‐related changes post‐SP supplementation with follow‐up.

Methods

A prospective, non‐randomized, controlled, monocentric interventional study was conducted in WIR, Center for Sexual Health and Medicine, in Bochum, Germany. 32 HIV+ patients with unaltered ART‐regimen in the last three months were included. Participants were given SP for a duration of 12 weeks in the form of daily oral supplementation and were additionally followed‐up for another 12 weeks.

Results

The supplementation of SP was well tolerated. We found an improvement in lipid profiles and long‐term blood glucose levels. A decrease in pro‐inflammatory cytokines and a depletion of effector T cells was observed. Regulatory T cells and IL‐10 decreased. Furthermore, changes in taxonomic composition of the microbiome during follow‐up were observed and improvement of items of self‐reported life‐quality assessment.

Conclusion

Taken together, the beneficial impact of SP in PLHIV reflects its potential in improving metabolic parameters and modulating pro‐inflammatory immune responses. Thus, possibly reducing the risk of cardiovascular disorders and facilitating long‐term improvement of the gut flora.