bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Religion, conspiracy theory and consumer ethics: a moderated mediation analysis
Authors: Arli Denni
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to show that the spread of conspiracy theories has resulted in many tragic incidents, such as January 6 Insurrection at the US Capitol Building. Interestingly, many of the conspiracy theory followers are religious individuals. In response to this phenomenon, this study will investigate the impact of religious (un)beliefs on consumer ethics. Secondly, this study will investigate the mediating role of conspiracy theory on consumer ethics. Finally, this study will investigate the moderating role of ethical ideology (i.e. relativism) on the relationship between consumers’ (un)belief (e.g. religiosity and atheism) and consumer ethics.

Design/methodology/approach

Overall, 328 participants living in the USA (32% female and 68% male) were recruited from Amazon Mechanical Turk (MTurk) in exchange for financial compensation.

Findings

The results show the negative impact of a belief in a conspiracy theory. These conspiracy beliefs can skew any individual irrespective of their beliefs or unbelief. Religious leaders, policymakers and educators need to keep this in mind when designing a campaign to reduce unethical behavior. Everyone is prone to conspiracy theories.

Originality/value

This is one of the first few studies exploring the impact of belief in conspiracy theories on consumers’ ethical beliefs. There are still limited studies investigating whether conspiracy beliefs lead individuals to engage in unethical behavior.
Exploring dietary diversity, nutritional status of adolescents among farm households in Nigeria: do higher commercialization levels translate to better nutrition?
Authors: Otekunrin Olutosin Ademola , Otekunrin Oluwaseun Aramide
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore dietary diversity (DD) and nutritional status of adolescents among rural farm households in Southwestern Nigeria. It analyses whether higher commercialization levels of farm households translate to better nutrition.

Design/methodology/approach

This study was conducted in Ogun and Oyo States of Southwestern Nigeria, using primary data from 352 farm households with a total of 160 adolescent members. The individual version of dietary diversity score (DDS) of nine food groups was used to calculate adolescent DDS over a 24-h recall period. World Health Organization AnthroPlus software was used in analyzing adolescents’ anthropometric data (height-for-age z-score and body mass index-for-age z-score) while household crop commercialization index (CCI) was estimated for each farm household. Separate logit models were used to examine the drivers of adolescents’ DD and malnutrition.

Findings

The study findings indicated that 100% of the adolescents consumed starchy staples while 0%, 3.1% and 12.5% consumed organ meat, milk/milk products and eggs, respectively. Results revealed that 74.1% and 21.2% of boys were stunted and thin while the prevalence in adolescent girls was 50.7% and 9.3%, respectively. Prevalence of stunting was found to be very high (60%–83%) in all the four CCI levels’ households indicating that belonging to highly commercialized households (CCI 3–4) may not necessarily translate to better nutrition of adolescent members. Food expenditure (p < 0.01) and access to piped water (p < 0.01) negatively influenced adolescents’ stunting mainly because of lower expenditure on food items and lower percent of household having access to piped water, respectively, while education (p < 0.01) had positive effects on adolescents’ DD.

Originality/value

Previous studies have contributed to the body of knowledge concerning the link between agricultural commercialization and nutrition using under-five children of the households. However, to the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study that investigated the influence of CCI on DDS and nutritional status of adolescent members of farm households in Nigeria. This study fills this existing knowledge gap in investigating adolescents’ DD and malnutrition among smallholder farm households.
Coherence in the use of a performance measurement system and compatibility between institutional logics in public hospitals
Authors: Leotta Antonio , Ruggeri Daniela
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This study aims to explore how the use of a performance measurement system (PMS) reflects the compatibility between institutional logics at different levels. It emphasises the centrality of institutional logics behind actors’ expectations.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on pragmatic constructivism, the study assumes that a PMS is used coherently when it realises the values and beliefs of the actors involved. This requires that actors communicate and understand one another (communication coherence) and accept the PMS in use (value coherence). The study argues that a coherent use of a PMS reflects the compatibility between the institutional logics at the same (field levels) or different levels (field and societal levels). The empirical evidence comes from a large public hospital located in the south of Italy.

Findings

The empirical results describe episodes that highlight how the coherence in the use of PMS reflects the compatibility of institutional logics at different levels and episodes where the compatibility can be hindered by problems in the coherent use of the PMS related to value and communication coherence. A lack of communication and value coherence is highlighted in the use of PMS as “compromising accounts”.

Originality/value

The study sheds light on how coherence in the use of PMS reflects the compatibility between the institutional logics involved at different levels, suggesting that a focus on one prevailing logic must be avoided. The study extends logics compatibility beyond the field level to the societal level.
Overcoming the post-processing barriers for 3D-printed medical models
Authors: Verma Virendra Kumar , Kamble Sachin S. , Ganapathy L. , Tarei Pradeep Kumar
Published: July 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to identify, analyse and model the post-processing barriers of 3D-printed medical models (3DPMM) printed by fused deposition modelling to overcome these barriers for improved operational efficiency in the Indian context.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology used interpretive structural modelling (ISM), cross-impact matrix multiplication applied to classification (MICMAC) analysis and decision-making trial and evaluation laboratory (DEMATEL) to understand the hierarchical and contextual relations among the barriers of the post-processing.

Findings

A total of 11 post-processing barriers were identified in this study using ISM, literature review and experts’ input. The MICMAC analysis identified support material removal, surface finishing, cleaning, inspection and issues with quality consistency as significant driving barriers for post-processing. MICMAC also identified linkage barriers as well as dependent barriers. The ISM digraph model was developed using a final reachability matrix, which would help practitioners specifically tackle post-processing barriers. Further, the DEMATEL method allows practitioners to emphasize the causal effects of post-processing barriers and guides them in overcoming these barriers.

Research limitations/implications

There may have been a few post-processing barriers that were overlooked by the Indian experts, which might have been important for other country’s perspective.

Practical implications

The presented ISM model and DEMATEL provide directions for operation managers in planning operational strategies for overcoming post-processing issues in the medical 3D-printing industry. Also, managers may formulate operational strategies based on the driving and dependence power of post-processing barriers as well as the causal effects relationships of the barriers.

Originality/value

This study contributes to identifying, analyzing and modelling the post-processing barriers of 3DPMM through a combined ISM and DEMATEL methodology, which has not yet been reviewed. This study also contributes to decision makers developing suitable strategies to overcome the post-processing barriers for improved operational efficiency.
Do Borrowers Intentionally Avoid Covenant Violations? A Reexamination of the Debt Covenant Hypothesis
Authors: BORDEMAN ADAM , DEMERJIAN PETER
Published: July 2022

In this study, we replicate and extend the Dichev and Skinner [DS: 2002] study on the debt covenant hypothesis (DCH). We start by replicating DS and find results consistent with theirs. We then extend their work by changing three aspects of the research design: histogram bin width, calculation of slack, and statistical test of discontinuity. We find that the inference from DS is generally robust to varying these choices, although sensitive to different bin widths, during their sample period. We extend our analysis to the period 2000–2019 and find that support for DCH remains robust. We do, however, find a lack of support for DCH when examining the most common financial covenant, debt‐to‐EBITDA. These findings suggest a more nuanced perspective on DCH, whereby different types of financial covenants provide different incentives and abilities to avoid technical default.
Simplified geriatric nutritional risk index for assessing nutritional status and stratifying mortality risk in patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis
Authors: Yamada Shunsuke , Arase Hokuto , Taniguchi Masatomo , Kitazono Takanari , Nakano Toshiaki
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The geriatric nutritional risk index (GNRI) is a widely used tool for nutritional assessment in patients receiving hemodialysis. The simplification of the GNRI calculation would be more useful for easier screening of malnutrition and for providing an intuitive stratification of mortality risk.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 218 Japanese patients receiving maintenance hemodialysis at two hemodialysis centers. The primary outcome was all‐cause mortality. The main exposure was a simplified GNRI (sGNRI) calculated as follows: sGNRI = serum albumin (g/dL) + 0.1 × body mass index (kg/m2).

Results

During the median 4.4‐year follow‐up, 56 patients died. Multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazard risk models showed that patients with a lower sGNRI showed a significantly increased mortality risk. No significant difference was observed between the original GNRI and sGNRI regarding mortality predictability.

Conclusion

sGNRI is as useful as the original GNRI for screening for malnutrition and stratifying hemodialysis patients at increased mortality risk.
Investigation on the incidence and risk factors of lung cancer among Chinese hospital employees
Authors: Chen Zi‐Hao , Chen Zhi‐Yong , Kang Jing , Chu Xiang‐Peng , Fu Rui , Zhang Jia‐Tao , Qi Yi‐Fan , Chen Jing‐Hua , Lin Jun‐Tao , Jiang Ben‐Yuan , Yang Xue‐Ning , Wu Yi‐Long , Zhong Wen‐Zhao , Nie Qiang
Published: July 2022

Objective

In recent years, the lung cancer incidence has grown and the population is younger. We intend to find out the true detection rate of pulmonary nodules and the incidence of lung cancer in the population and search for the risk factors.

Method

Hospital employees ≥40 years old who underwent low‐dose computed tomography (CT) lung cancer screening from January 2019 to March 2022 were selected to record CT‐imaging characteristics, pathology, staging, and questionnaires to investigate past history, smoking history, diet, mental health, etc. PM2.5 and radiation intake in radiation‐related occupation received monitoring in hospital.

Result

The detection rate of suspicious pulmonary nodules was 9.1% (233/2552), and the incidence rate of lung cancer (including adenocarcinoma in situ) was 4.0% (103/2552). Morbidity among doctors, nurses, technicians, administers, and logistics was no difference (p = 0.184), but higher in women than in men (4.7% vs 2.4% p = 0.002). The invasiveness increased with age and CT density of nodules (p = 0.018). The relationship between lung cancer morbidity and PM2.5 was not clear (p = 0.543); and no lung cancer has been found in employees related ionizing radiation.

Conclusion

The high screening rate has brought about a high incidence of lung cancer. At present, the risk factor analysis of lung cancer based on small samples cannot find the direct cause. Most of the ground glass opacity (GGO)s detected by LDCT screening are indolent, but there are also rapidly progressive lung cancer. A predictive model to identify active and indolent GGO is necessary.
Adverse event profiles of PCSK9 inhibitors alirocumab and evolocumab: Data mining of the FDA adverse event reporting system
Authors: Ji Chunmei , Bai Jinmei , Zhou Jiancheng , Zou Ying , Yu Mingming
Published: July 2022

Background

Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type (PCSK9) inhibitor is a new drug class approved for treating dyslipidemias. Herein, we aimed to investigate the safety profiles of PCSK9 inhibitors (alirocumab and evolocumab) using the Food and Drug Administration Adverse Event Reporting System (FAERS).

Methods

We included adverse event (AE) reports regarding alirocumab and evolocumab submitted to the FAERs between 2015Q3 to 2021Q1. Disproportionality analyses, including reporting odds ratio (ROR), were performed to detect risk signals from the FAERs data to identify potential drug‐AE associations. A signal was considered when the lower limit of the 95% confidence interval of ROR exceeded 1 and ≥3 AEs were reported. The definition relied on system organ class and preferred terms established by the Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities.

Results

The FAERS database documented 31 475 reports regarding PCSK9 inhibitors (alirocumab and evolocumab) from July 1, 2015, to March 31, 2021. Although some differences were detected, alirocumab and evolocumab shared considerably similar safety profiles. The most significant RORs and most common reports were injection‐site reactions (eg, injection‐site pain, bruising, haemorrhage, erythema), muscle‐related AEs (eg, myalgia, back pain, arthralgia, muscle spasms), influenza‐like illness, pain and headache.

Conclusion

Data mining of the FAERs is useful for examining PCSK9 inhibitor‐induced AEs. Herein, our findings were largely consistent with clinical experience and could help clinicians improve the safety of PCSK9 inhibitors in clinical practice.
Grouped Generalized Estimating Equations for Longitudinal Data Analysis
Authors: Ito Tsubasa , Sugasawa Shonosuke
Published: July 2022

Generalized estimating equation (GEE) is widely adopted for regression modeling for longitudinal data, taking account of potential correlations within the same subjects. Although the standard GEE assumes common regression coefficients among all the subjects, such an assumption may not be realistic when there is potential heterogeneity in regression coefficients among subjects. In this paper, we develop a flexible and interpretable approach, called grouped GEE analysis, to modeling longitudinal data with allowing heterogeneity in regression coefficients. The proposed method assumes that the subjects are divided into a finite number of groups and subjects within the same group share the same regression coefficient. We provide a simple algorithm for grouping subjects and estimating the regression coefficients simultaneously, and show the asymptotic properties of the proposed estimator. The number of groups can be determined by the cross validation with averaging method. We demonstrate the proposed method through simulation studies and an application to a real data set.
Flapped versus flapless surgery and delayed versus immediate loading for a four mini implant mandibular overdenture: A RCT on post‐surgical symptoms and short‐term clinical outcomes
Authors: Leles Cláudio Rodrigues , de Paula Marcella Silva , Curado Thalita Fernandes Fleury , Silva Jésio Rodrigues , Leles José Luiz Rodrigues , McKenna Gerald , Schimmel Martin
Published: July 2022

Objective

This factorial randomized clinical trial (RCT) tested the effects of the surgical approach (flapped—FPS vs. flapless—FLS surgery) and loading protocol (delayed—DL vs. immediate—IL) for treatment with a four mini implant mandibular overdenture.

Material and Methods

A total of 296 one‐piece titanium‐zirconium mini‐implants were inserted in 74 patients (IL/FLS = 17; IL/FPS = 18; DL/FLS = 20; and DL/FPS = 19). Outcomes included patient's perceived surgical burdens, clinical time, implant survival, and post‐surgical symptoms and complications, assessed immediately after surgery, in the 7‐day and 6‐week follow‐ups.

Results

Perceived surgical burdens were relatively low, higher for females, and no difference was found between FPS and FLS surgery. Surgical time was lower for FLS surgery. Overall symptoms were mild after 24 h, and higher for females. Less symptoms were recorded for the FLS surgery compared to the FPS for the delayed loading patients, and FLS surgery was associated with a lower risk of bleeding. No early implant failure was observed until the 6‐week follow‐up. Delayed was associated with discontinuous use of the prosthesis and poor function. Lower complaint rates were observed for immediate loading regardless of the surgery protocol.

Conclusions

Mini implants for mandibular overdenture are a feasible option regardless of surgical access and loading protocol, with high safety and predictable survival rates, and low incidence of post‐insertion complications. FLS surgery requires less clinical time and results in easier intraoral prosthetic incorporation of attachments compared to FPS surgeries. Immediate loading did not increase the risk of early implant failure when satisfactory primary stability was achieved.
Exploring Patterns of Stability and Change in Caregivers' Word Usage Across Early Childhood
Authors: Jiang Hang , Frank Michael C. , Kulkarni Vivek , Fourtassi Abdellah
Published: July 2022

The linguistic input children receive across early childhood plays a crucial role in shaping their knowledge about the world. To study this input, researchers have begun applying distributional semantic models to large corpora of child‐directed speech, extracting various patterns of word use/co‐occurrence. Previous work using these models has not measured how these patterns may change throughout development, however. In this work, we leverage natural language processing methods—originally developed to study historical language change—to compare caregivers' use of words when talking to younger versus older children. Some words' usage changed more than others; this variability could be predicted based on the word's properties at both the individual and category levels. These findings suggest that caregivers' changing patterns of word use may play a role in scaffolding children's acquisition of conceptual structure in early development.
Impact of the presence of median arcuate ligament on biliary complications after liver transplantation
Authors: Gialamas Eleftherios , Assalino Michela , Elkrief Laure , Apostolidou‐Kiouti Fani , Piveteau Arthur , Oldani Graziano , Compagnon Philippe , Berney Thierry
Published: July 2022

Introduction

The presence of median arcuate ligament (MAL) during orthotopic liver transplantation (OLT) may cause a significant reduction in the arterial hepatic flow. The aim of the present study is to investigate the impact of MAL on biliary complications in patients who underwent OLT.

Methods

We performed a retrospective case‐control study among patients who underwent OLT in Geneva University Hospital between 2007 and 2017, depending on the presence or absence of MAL. The matching was performed according to age, gender, lab‐MELD score at the time of OLT and type of donor (living or dead). The presence of MAL was assessed by an expert liver radiologist on the preoperative CT angiographic evaluation.

Results

The incidence of MAL was 6.1% (19 patients). Baseline characteristics were comparable between the two groups. No significant difference in biliary complications was found between patients with and without MAL (37% and 24%, respectively). No patient presented hepatic artery thrombosis. After logistic regression, in patients with MAL, the MAL release and gastroduodenal artery preservation compared to no treatment, showed an odds ratio for post‐OLT biliary complications of 1.5 and 1.25, respectively. There was no difference in overall graft survival and in hazard for biliary complications between patients with and without MAL.

Conclusion

In the present study, we did not find any difference in the prevalence of biliary and arterial complications between patients with and without MAL. The choice of MAL treatment did not influence in a significant way the overall outcome and development of complications. However, if, at the end of arterial reconstruction, the arterial flow is not adequately established, MAL needs to be treated with the least invasive technique.
Children over‐imitate adults and peers more than puppets
Authors: Stengelin Roman , Ball Rabea , Maurits Luke , Kanngiesser Patricia , Haun Daniel B. M.
Published: July 2022

Researchers commonly use puppets in development science. Amongst other things, puppets are employed to reduce social hierarchies between child participants and adult experimenters akin to peer interactions. However, it remains controversial whether children treat puppets like real‐world social partners in these settings. This study investigated children's imitation of causally irrelevant actions (i.e., over‐imitation) performed by puppet, adult, or child models. Seventy‐two German children (AgeRange = 4.6–6.5 years; 36 girls) from urban, socioeconomically diverse backgrounds observed a model retrieving stickers from reward containers. The model performed causally irrelevant actions either in contact with the reward container or not. Children were more likely to over‐imitate adults’ and peers’ actions as compared to puppets’ actions. Across models, they copied contact actions more than no‐contact actions. While children imitate causally irrelevant actions from puppet models to some extent, their social learning from puppets does not necessarily match their social learning from real‐world social agents, such as children or adults.

Research Highlights

We examined children's over‐imitation from adult, child, and puppet models to validate puppetry as an approach to simulate non‐hierarchical interactions.

Children imitated adults and child models at slightly higher rates than puppets.

This effect was present regardless of whether the irrelevant actions involved physical contact to the reward container or not.

In our study children's social learning from puppets does not match their social learning from human models.
Insight into Hofmeister effects on aggregation of 2:1 and 1:1 type clay minerals
Authors: Zhang Yekun , Tian Rui , Liu Dian , Guo Xiaomin , Yang Shishu , Li Hang
Published: July 2022

2:1 and 1:1 types of clay minerals are ubiquitous in soil, and their different surface properties result in distinct environmental behaviours. In this study, dynamic light scattering (DLS) technology was adopted to determine the aggregation kinetics of 2:1 type (Montmorillonite [Mt]) and 1:1 type (Kaolinite [Ka]) clay minerals in different electrolytes. Hofmeister effects on their aggregation characteristics and mechanisms were explored. The results showed that the activation energy and critical coagulation concentration (CCC) for Mt and Ka aggregation followed Hofmeister sequences of Na+ > K+ > Cs+, Mg2+ > Ca2+ > Zn2+ ≈ Cd2+ > Cu2+> Pb2+. The analyses of physical insights into those differences revealed that the observed Hofmeister sequence was produced from the different non‐classical polarisation of cations and surface O atoms in the strong electric field of clay, which led to non‐electrostatic force adsorption of cations at the surface (or in the Stern layer). In this study, the effective charge coefficient γ was employed to characterise the intensity of the non‐electrostatic adsorption forces of cations arising from the non‐classical polarisation, and the γ values followed Na+ < K+ < Cs+, Mg2+ < Ca2+ < Zn2+ = Cd2+ < Cu2+ < Pb2+. For alkali and alkali earth metal cations with same valence, the more the electron layers, the ‘softer’ the electron cloud, the stronger the non‐classical polarisation effects in the electric field and the stronger ability to shield the electric field around the particle, which finally lead to the larger γ and lower CCC for clay minerals aggregation. For heavy metal cations, different s/p/d empty orbitals provided the basis for the difference in polarisation‐induced coordination between heavy metal cations with surface O atoms on clay. The results also showed that, the Hofmeister effects on Mt/Ka aggregation were different, it was from the differences in Hamaker constant and surface charge density for the two clay minerals.

Highlights

Mt and Ka aggregations exhibited different Hofmeister effects.

Repulsive force among Mt particles was much larger than Ka.

Cationic polarisation played critical role in particle interactions of Mt.

Polarisation‐induced covalent adsorption of cations was observed at Mt surface.
Temperature effect on the static mode I delamination behavior of aerospace‐grade composite laminates: Experimental and numerical study
Authors: Gong Yu , Jiang Linfei , Li Linkang , Ren Sue , Zhao Youxuan , Wang Ziming , Hu Ning
Published: July 2022

Aerospace structures are exposed to high‐temperature conditions during service. In‐depth study for the temperature effect on composite interlaminar properties is important for the structural design and reliable application. In this study, mode I delamination behaviors at different temperatures are investigated, to understand the effects of temperature on the delamination growth process, including fracture toughness, bridging stress, and failure mechanism. It is found that R‐curve behavior presents at all temperatures. The initial and steady‐state fracture toughnesses exhibit linear increase trends with the increase of the temperature, from which equations are established to predict the initial and steady‐state fracture toughnesses at other temperatures. More bridging fibers are observed at higher temperatures, and the resulted fracture resistance at 130°C is 136.9% higher than that at room temperature. The maximum bridging stress also increases with the increase of temperature. A numerical framework based on the cohesive zone model is established for delamination modeling. Material parameters at various temperatures are obtained by an exponential model. Suitable values of interfacial parameters in cohesive elements are numerically determined. Predicted load–displacement responses agree well with the experimental ones, illustrating the applicability of the proposed numerical method.
Infection prevention and control across the continuum of COVID‐19 care: A qualitative study of patients', caregivers' and providers' experiences
Authors: Wasilewski Marina B. , Szigeti Zara , Sheppard Christine L. , Minezes Jacqueline , Hitzig Sander L. , Mayo Amanda L. , Robinson Lawrence R. , Lung Maria , Simpson Robert
Published: July 2022

Introduction

Healthcare facilities adopted restrictive visitor policies as a result of the COVID‐19 (COVID) pandemic. Though these measures were necessary to promote the safety of patients, families and healthcare providers, it led to isolation and loneliness amongst acute care inpatients that can undermine patient rehabilitation and recovery. The study objectives were to (1) explore how infection prevention and control (IP&C) measures impacted stakeholders' perceptions of care quality and interactions with others and (2) investigate how these experiences and perceptions varied across stakeholder groups and care settings.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted. Patients and their families from an inpatient COVID rehabilitation hospital and healthcare providers from an acute or rehabilitation COVID hospital were interviewed between August 2020 and February 2021.

Results

A total of 10 patients, 5 family members and 12 healthcare providers were interviewed. Four major themes were identified: (1) IP&C measures challenged the psychosocial health of all stakeholders across care settings; (2): IP&C measures precipitated a need for greater relational care from HCPs; (3) infection prevention tenets perpetuated COVID‐related stigma that stakeholders experienced across care settings; and (4) technology was used to facilitate human connection when IP&C limited physical presence.

Conclusion

IP&C measures challenged psychosocial health and maintenance of vital human connections. Loneliness and isolation were felt by all stakeholders due to physical distancing and COVID‐related stigma. Some isolation was mitigated by the relational care provided by HCPs and technological innovations used. The findings of the study underscore the need to balance safety with psychosocial well‐being across care settings and beyond the patient–provider dyad.

Patient and Public Contribution

This study was informed by the Patient‐Oriented Research Agenda and developed through consultations with patients and family caregivers to identify priority areas for rehabilitation research. Priority areas identified that informed the current study were (1) the need to focus on the psychosocial aspects of recovery from illness and injury and (2) the importance of exploring patients' recovery experiences and needs across the continuum of care. The study protocol, ethics submission, analysis and manuscript preparation were all informed by healthcare providers with lived experience of working in COVID care settings.
Female and male Leach's Storm Petrels (Hydrobates leucorhous) pursue different foraging strategies during the incubation period
Authors: Mauck Robert A. , Pratte Isabeau , Hedd April , Pollet Ingrid l. , Jones Patricia L. , Montevecchi William A. , Ronconi Robert A. , Gjerdrum Carina , Adrianowyscz Sarah , McMahon Colin , Acker Haley , Taylor Liam U. , McMahon Jennifer , Dearborn Donald C. , Robertson Gregory J. , McFarlane Tranquilla Laura A.
Published: July 2022

Reproduction in procellariiform birds is characterized by a single egg clutch, slow development, a long breeding season and obligate biparental care. Female Leach's Storm Petrels Hydrobates leucorhous, nearly monomorphic members of this order, produce eggs that are between 20 and 25% of adult bodyweight. We tested whether female foraging behaviour differs from male foraging behaviour during the ~ 44‐day incubation period across seven breeding colonies in the Northwest Atlantic. Over six breeding seasons, we used a combination of Global Positioning System and Global Location Sensor devices to measure characteristics of individual foraging trips during the incubation period. Females travelled significantly greater distances and went farther from the breeding colony than did males on individual foraging trips. For both sexes, the longer the foraging trip, the greater the distance. Independent of trip duration, females travelled farther, and spent a greater proportion of their foraging trips prospecting widely, as defined by behavioural categories derived from a hidden Markov Model. For both sexes, trip duration decreased with date. Sex differences in these foraging metrics were apparently not a consequence of morphological differences or spatial segregation. Our data are consistent with the idea that female foraging strategies differed from male foraging strategies during incubation in ways that would be expected if females were still compensating for egg formation.
Light and Malaise traps tell different stories about the spatial variations in arthropod biomass and method‐specific insect abundance
Authors: Busse Annika , Bässler Claus , Brandl Roland , Friess Nicolas , Hacker Hermann , Heidrich Lea , Hilmers Torben , Merkel‐Wallner Gisela , Schmid‐Egger Christian , Seifert Linda , Müller Jörg
Published: July 2022

Conclusions reached in meta‐analyses of changes in insect communities may be influenced by method‐specific sampling biases, which may lead to inappropriate conservation measures.

We argue that the contradictory conclusions regarding terrestrial insect biomass, abundance and richness patterns are, at least partly, due to methodological limitations that reflect taxon‐specific responses to environmental changes.

In this study, light and Malaise traps were simultaneously deployed to sample insects at 52 plots in a temperate forest in Germany along gradients of elevation (>1000 m) and canopy openness (3%–100%). These gradients were used as predictors in models of total arthropod biomass according to the two trapping methods and in models of abundance and richness of three commonly targeted groups: nocturnal moths, sampled using light traps, and hoverflies and bees, collected with Malaise traps.

A comparison of the total arthropod biomass obtained with the two methods revealed contrary results along the canopy openness gradient. Biomass in light traps showed a decreasing trend with increasing canopy openness while biomass in Malaise traps increased. The same opposing pattern was found for the abundance of selected taxa.

The different patterns describing spatial variation of arthropod communities obtained using light and Malaise traps can be explained by differences in the taxa predominantly collected. Regarding the ongoing debate on insect decline, our results demonstrate that comparing different taxa from different taxon‐specific traps is inappropriate. Thus, we recommend that future meta‐analyses take into account the sampling methods and taxon‐specific responses to environmental changes.
Examining teachers' awareness of effective vocabulary instructional practices: Voices from Saudi Arabia
Authors: Sonbul Suhad , Almusharraf Norah , Abdel Salam El‐Dakhs Dina
Published: July 2022

Vocabulary‐learning activities are predominant in the English language classroom. Research examining teachers' awareness of effective vocabulary instructional practices is limited. The current mixed‐methods study (explanatory sequential design) aims to elicit responses from schoolteachers and college‐level teachers in the Saudi English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language (EFL) context to evaluate their implementation of the Technique Feature Analysis criteria. A survey was administered to 86 EFL teachers in Saudi Arabia. This was followed by focused group interviews with a subsample of 15 teachers. Results showed that teachers at both levels frequently employed the criteria under “motivation” and “noticing.” However, most college‐level teachers could not give students the freedom to select the words they needed to learn, did not use images to visualize vocabulary items, and were hesitant about using translation in their classrooms. Schoolteachers, on the other hand, did not pay attention to teaching individual unknown words in context. The results have important implications regarding teacher perceptions of effective vocabulary teaching and the design of language programs in Saudi Arabia.
Ascertainment of vaccination status by self‐report versus source documentation: Impact on measuring COVID‐19 vaccine effectiveness
Authors: Stephenson Meagan , Olson Samantha M. , Self Wesley H. , Ginde Adit A. , Mohr Nicholas M. , Gaglani Manjusha , Shapiro Nathan I. , Gibbs Kevin W. , Hager David N. , Prekker Matthew E. , Gong Michelle N. , Steingrub Jay S. , Peltan Ithan D. , Martin Emily T. , Reddy Raju , Busse Laurence W. , Duggal Abhijit , Wilson Jennifer G. , Qadir Nida , Mallow Christopher , Kwon Jennie H. , Exline Matthew C. , Chappell James D. , Lauring Adam S. , Baughman Adrienne , Lindsell Christopher J. , Hart Kimberly W. , Lewis Nathaniel M. , Patel Manish M. , Tenforde Mark W. ,   IVY Network Investigators
Published: July 2022

Background

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, self‐reported COVID‐19 vaccination might facilitate rapid evaluations of vaccine effectiveness (VE) when source documentation (e.g., immunization information systems [IIS]) is not readily available. We evaluated the concordance of COVID‐19 vaccination status ascertained by self‐report versus source documentation and its impact on VE estimates.

Methods

Hospitalized adults (≥18 years) admitted to 18 U.S. medical centers March–June 2021 were enrolled, including COVID‐19 cases and SARS‐CoV‐2 negative controls. Patients were interviewed about COVID‐19 vaccination. Abstractors simultaneously searched IIS, medical records, and other sources for vaccination information. To compare vaccination status by self‐report and documentation, we estimated percent agreement and unweighted kappa with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). We then calculated VE in preventing COVID‐19 hospitalization of full vaccination (2 doses of mRNA product ≥14 days prior to illness onset) independently using data from self‐report or source documentation.

Results

Of 2520 patients, 594 (24%) did not have self‐reported vaccination information to assign vaccination group; these patients tended to be more severely ill. Among 1924 patients with both self‐report and source documentation information, 95.0% (95% CI: 93.9–95.9%) agreement was observed, with a kappa of 0.9127 (95% CI: 0.9109–0.9145). VE was 86% (95% CI: 81–90%) by self‐report data only and 85% (95% CI: 81‐89%) by source documentation data only.

Conclusions

Approximately one‐quarter of hospitalized patients could not provide self‐report COVID‐19 vaccination status. Among patients with self‐report information, there was high concordance with source documented status. Self‐report may be a reasonable source of COVID‐19 vaccination information for timely VE assessment for public health action.
Phylogenomics of arboreal alligator lizards shed light on the geographical diversification of cloud forest‐adapted biotas
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Rodríguez Jorge , Nieto‐Montes de Oca Adrián , Ortego Joaquín , Zaldívar‐Riverón Alejandro
Published: July 2022

Aim

The proximate ecological and evolutionary processes underlying the high biodiversity of neotropical montane cloud forests are still very poorly understood. Climatic oscillations may have contributed to vicariance and cladogenesis, but also promoted secondary contact and erosion of genetic divergence. Here we tested whether geographical diversification – or its lack thereof – in a complex of arboreal alligator lizards is explained by range shifts during Quaternary climatic oscillations.

Location

Pine–oak and cloud forests, central Mexico.

Taxon

Abronia taeniata–gramineaspecies complex (Squamata: Anguidae: Gerrhonotinae).

Methods

We generated genomic data (ddRADseq) to infer patterns of geographical diversification in the complex, reconstruct its demographic history, estimate the timing of lineage split, and test for the presence of contemporary and/or historical hybridization. We evaluated whether the tempo and mode of diversification (i.e. strict isolation vs. secondary contact with introgression) are explained by the contemporary distribution of suitable habitats and/or range shifts experienced by the complex since the Last Glacial Maximum (LGM), as inferred from environmental niche modelling (ENM).

Results

Genomic data supported a marked genetic structure within the complex, and phylogenomic and dating analyses revealed cryptic lineage diversification starting at the onset of the Pleistocene followed by secondary contact with limited introgression. ENM pointed to considerable range expansions of the complex during the LGM and a marked fragmentation and scarce connectivity among contemporary populations, which was supported by genomic‐based demographic reconstructions.

Main Conclusions

The geographical diversification of the complex has been moulded by vicariant events promoted by Pleistocene geologic and climatic changes impacting the distribution of their pine–oak and cloud forest habitats. Our data supported a model of divergence with introgression, indicating that pulses of population fragmentation and expansion during the Quaternary have led to multiple opportunities for both allopatric isolation and secondary contact.
Synergism between obesity and HFpEF on neutrophils phenotype and its regulation by adipose tissue‐molecules and SGLT2i dapagliflozin
Authors: Almengló Cristina , Fu Xiaoran , Flores‐Arias María Teresa , Fernández Ángel L. , Viñuela Juan E. , Martínez‐Cereijo José M. , Durán Darío , Rodríguez‐Mañero Moisés , González‐Juanatey José R. , Eiras Sonia
Published: July 2022

The adiposity invokes innate immune activity, coronary microvascular dysfunction and consequently heart failure preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). Our aim was to study the neutrophils profile on obesity and cardiovascular disease and its regulation by adipose tissue‐secretome and dapagliflozin. We have isolated neutrophils from patients undergoing open heart surgery (19 women and 51 men). Its migration activity was performed with culture‐transwell, transcriptional studies of proteolytic enzymes, adhesion molecules or receptors were analysed by real‐time PCR and proteomics (from 20 patients) analysis by TripleTOF mass spectrometer. Differentiated HL‐60 (dHL‐60) was used as a preclinical model on microfluidic for endothelial cells attaching assays and genes regulation with epicardial and subcutaneous fat secretomes from patients (3 women and 9 men) or dapagliflozin 1–10 μM treatments. The transcriptional and proteomics studies have determined higher levels of adhesion molecules in neutrophils from patients with obesity. The adhesion molecule CD11b levels were higher in those patients with the combined obesity and HFpEF factors (1.70 ± 0.06 a.u. without obesity, 1.72 ± 0.04 a.u. obesity or HFpEF without obesity and 1.79 ± 0.08 a.u. obesity and HFpEF; p < .01). While fat‐secretome induces its upregulation, dapagliflozin can modulated it. Because CD11b upregulation is associated with higher neutrophils migration and adhesion into endothelial cells, dapagliflozin might modulate this mechanism on patients with obesity and HFpEF.
Populist Capture of Foreign Policy Institutions: The Orbán Government and the De‐Europeanization of Hungarian Foreign Policy
Authors: Müller Patrick , Gazsi David
Published: July 2022

Despite a growing interest in the relationship between populism and foreign policy, we know little about how populists in power engage with Europeanized foreign policy institutions. Bridging between research on populism and foreign policy (de‐)Europeanization, this article develops a theoretical framework for examining the impact of PRR parties in government on core features of national foreign policy institutions. First, it identifies three dimensions – organizational priorities, the allocation of authority, and organizational culture – and related indicators for the assessment of foreign policy de‐Europeanization. Second, it argues that the impact of PRR parties in government on national foreign policy institutions depends on two main factors: their ‘foreign policy preferences’ and their ‘action capacity’. Whilst the article demonstrates substantial de‐Europeanization in Hungary's foreign policy institutions under successive Orbán governments, it also shows that the possession of a strong action capacity alone is not enough for institutional changes to take place.
The effect of iron deficiency on quality of life outcomes after surgery for obstructive sleep apnoea
Authors: Reynolds Zachary , Hibbert Nicole , Stevenson Paul , Vijayasekaran Shyan
Published: July 2022

Aim

This study aimed to assess the effect of iron deficiency on parent‐reported changes in quality of life (QOL) among children receiving an adenotonsillectomy for paediatric obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA).

Methods

This was a retrospective review study that recruited children under 16 years of age undergoing an adenotonsillectomy, adenoidectomy, or tonsillectomy for clinically diagnosed paediatric OSA between June 2020 and January 2021 inclusive, in Western Australia. The main outcome measures for this study were changes in QOL by age group and iron status, defined by an absolute change of more than 3 points on OSA‐18 survey domains.

Results

About 249 participants had iron studies performed on perioperative blood samples drawn at operation and completed both pre‐operative and post‐operative OSA‐18 QOL questionnaires at initial consultation and 8–12 weeks post‐surgery, respectively. 41.8% were iron deficient, 53.8% were borderline iron deficient and 4.4% had normal iron levels. Following surgery, a decrease was observed for all OSA‐18 score domains in post‐operation scores compared to pre‐operation scores in both iron‐deficient and borderline iron‐deficient cohorts. ‘Daytime Problems’ in the <2 years group, within the iron‐deficient cohort, was the only domain that found to be non‐superior (i.e. ‘not better’) following surgery.

Conclusions

Following adenotonsillectomy, patients with paediatric OSA reported significant improvements in QOL regardless of their iron status. Those undergoing an adenotonsillectomy for paediatric OSA had a high prevalence of iron deficiency at operation, especially those under 6 years of age.
Factors associated with perceived ease of access to syringes in Appalachian North Carolina
Authors: Carpenter Delesha M. , Zule William A. , Hennessy Caitlin M. , Evon Donna M. , Hurt Christopher B. , Ostrach Bayla
Published: July 2022

Purpose

To examine associations between perceived ease of syringe access, syringe sources, injection behaviors, and law enforcement (LE) interactions among people who inject drugs (PWID) in rural Appalachian North Carolina (NC).

Methods

Using respondent‐driven sampling, a diverse sample of 309 self‐reported PWID were recruited from rural Appalachian NC. Data were collected via audio computer‐assisted self‐interview technology from February 2019 through March 2020. Respondents reported demographics, sources of syringes, LE interactions, and injection behaviors. Univariate, bivariate, and linear regression analyses were performed.

Findings

Respondents most often obtained syringes from pharmacies and syringe service programs (SSPs). Twenty‐one percent disagreed that it was easy to obtain sterile syringes, with 28% reporting low or no access to an SSP. PWID who reported longer physical distances to an SSP had greater difficulty accessing syringes (P<.001). PWID who reported greater ease of access to syringes reported engaging in receptive syringe sharing less often (P<.01). PWID who were stopped and searched by LE more often reported injecting drugs somebody else prepared with nonsterile supplies more often (P<.01). Participants shared used injection supplies more than twice as often than they shared used syringes.

Conclusions

These results underscore the importance of SSPs to mitigate the spread of human immunodeficiency virus and viral hepatitis in rural areas. Supporting mobile SSP services in rural areas could increase access to sterile syringes and injection supplies. SSPs should educate PWID about the importance of not sharing injection supplies. Pharmacies could increase syringe access in areas where SSPs do not operate.