bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The packaging redesign issue – space exploitation and environmental benefits
Authors: Georgakoudis Elias D. , Pechlivanidou Georgia G. , Tipi Nicoleta S.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

This paper seeks to analyze the concept of packaging re-design with the main purpose to better exploit the utilized space within a secondary packaging, pallet and/or to make better use of transport, respectively. In addition, it investigates and discusses the importance of space exploitation in relation to environmental benefits, the industry and the community in general.

Design/methodology/approach

The research is based on a specific case study, in which two different options of a bottle with the same capacity are investigated in terms of: shape and space utilization. The investigation includes a detailed numerical comparison between the bottles, in order to show the strengths and weaknesses of each option.

Findings

The analysis provides evidence that any shape improvements could result into benefits such as: reduce waste, increase space utilization and increase the number of transported products per load. This in turn could reduce the energy and CO2 emissions required per unit of product carried or stored. The analysis shows that a better utilization of the space could further offer significant economic benefits for the company with respect to transportation and warehousing.

Research limitations/implications

However, the proposed packaging design solutions are proposed with the guarantee that the protection of the product is ensured, the logistics activities are facilitated as expected, the needs of the user are fully covered and the cost is maintained low. This solution, therefore, addresses the economic, social and environmental aspect of packaging.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills an identified need to study the relation between the packaging redesign concept and the various environmental and economic benefits for the industry and the participants of the supply chain, while maintaining the needs of the user. This works contributes to other more recent studies that are concerned with packaging design innovation that respond to key environmental concerns.
Ecofriendly automobile base coats derived from castor oil: evaluation of nano silica reinforcements on the performance characteristics of coatings
Authors: Mohanty Debasmita , Kanny Krishnan , Mohanty Smita , Nayak Sanjay K.
Published: May 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to reduce the application of petroleum in automobile paint industry by replacing it with bio-based castor oil along with nano fillers to synthesize automobile base coat (BC).

Design/methodology/approach

Bio-based polyurethane (PU) coating applicable in automobile BC was synthesized by using modified castor oil incorporated with nano silica (NS) and titanium-based pigment particles. The influential characteristics of the coating was studied by carrying out cross-cut tape test, abrasion resistance, pencil hardness, lap-shear, thermo gravimetric analysis, differential scanning calorimetry, dynamic mechanical analysis and acid, alkali and oil resistance tests.

Findings

Incorporation of NS particles, along with titanium-based pigment particles in optimized ratio into the paint matrix, increases the mechanical, chemical and oil resistance properties and hydrophobicity of the BC, and the findings are compared with the petro-based commercial BC.

Research limitations/implications

There is no significant improvement in thermal properties of the paint matrix, and it is less thermally stable than the commercial BC.

Practical implications

The paint developed through this study provides a simple and practical solution to reduce the petro-based feed-stock in automobile paint industry.

Originality/value

The current work which reports the use of ecofriendly PU BC for automobile paint applications is novel and findings of this study are original.
Chronic rapamycin treatment decreases hepatic IL‐6 protein, but increases autophagy markers as a protective effect against the overtraining‐induced tissue damage
Authors: Pinto Ana P. , da Rocha Alisson L. , Marafon Bruno B. , Nogueira Jonatas E. , Branco Luiz G. S. , Pauli José R. , de Moura Leandro P. , Cintra Dennys E. , Ropelle Eduardo R. , da Silva Adelino S. R.
Published: May 2022

Regular endurance exercise is a non‐pharmacological strategy to protect the liver against diseases. Conversely, exercise may be harmful when excessive, the so‐called overtraining. As expected, mice who underwent an overtraining protocol presented higher levels of proinflammatory cytokines in the serum and liver. Based on the relationship among overtraining, inflammation and mammalian target of rapamycin complex 1 (mTORC1) upregulation, the present study verified if animals submitted to an overtraining protocol, but with inhibition of the mTOR pathway via rapamycin injections could mitigate the liver and serum inflammation. Once autophagy can be linked to the improvement of hepatic dysfunction, we also investigated if the inhibition of mTORC1 by rapamycin can improve hepatic autophagy. The animals were randomized into four groups: control (CT; sedentary mice), overtraining by downhill running (OT; mice submitted to the downhill running‐based overtraining protocol), overtraining by downhill running with chronic administration of rapamycin (OT/Rapa; mice submitted to the downhill running‐based overtraining protocol with intraperitoneal injections of rapamycin) and aerobic (AER; submitted to aerobic training protocol). The serum and liver of the animals were used for biochemical analysis, reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and immunoblotting. The main results are (a) OT and OT/Rapa protocols decreased the performance; (b) the protein levels of interleukin 6 (IL‐6) were higher for the OT group; the OT/Rapa group reduced the autophagic genes, increased the microtubule‐associated protein light chain 3 II/I (LC3II/LC3I) protein ratio and decreased the sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) protein. In conclusion, rapamycin appears efficiently to increase the autophagy proteins and decrease IL‐6 protein in the liver of overtraining mice.
Zingerone stimulates osteoblast differentiation by increasing Smad1/5/9‐mediated HO‐1 expression in MC3T3‐E1 cells and primary mouse calvarial cells
Authors: Kim A‐Rang , Lim Young‐Ju , Jang Won‐Gu
Published: May 2022

Zingerone is a non‐volatile compound found mainly in dried ginger. Zingerone increases the expression of osteogenic markers and has antioxidant effects. A previous study showed that zingerone accelerated osteoblast differentiation by suppressing the expression of Smad7, a member of the inhibitory Smad (I‐Smad) family. However, it is not known if zingerone can induce osteoblast differentiation by regulating Smad1/5/9, a member of the receptor‐regulated Smad (R‐Smad) family. In addition, osteoblast differentiation induced by Smad1/5/9 mediated increases in the expression of heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1) has not been reported. This study investigated the effects of zingerone on osteoblast differentiation and confirmed the relationship between Smad1/5/9 and HO‐1. Zingerone increased the expression of osteogenic genes including runt‐related transcription factor 2 (Runx2), distal‐less homeobox (Dlx5) and osteocalcin (OC) and also promoted Smad1/5/9 phosphorylation. Interestingly, HO‐1 expression was also elevated by zingerone, and an inhibitor of HO‐1 (Sn[IV] protoporphyrin IX dichloride [SnPP]) suppressed the zingerone‐induced increase in HO‐1 expression and expression of osteogenic marker genes such as Dlx5, Runx2 and OC. Protein phosphatase 2A Cα (PP2A Cα, an inhibitor of Smad1/5/9) suppressed the zingerone‐induced increase in HO‐1 expression and expression of osteogenic marker genes. The zingerone‐induced increase in HO‐1 luciferase activity was suppressed by PP2A Cα. Taken together; our data demonstrate that zingerone promotes osteoblast differentiation by increasing Smad1/5/9 mediated HO‐1 expression.
Characterisation of whey protein–polyphenol conjugates prepared by the noncovalent and covalent methods for their effect on the functional properties of whey proteins
Authors: Vasava Hardik , Singh Richa , Yadav Tanushree
Published: May 2022

Whey proteins were conjugated with polyphenols (caffeic and ferulic acid) using different methods viz. noncovalent (pH 3, 5 and 7) and covalent (alkaline, chemical coupling and free radical grafting method). The binding of polyphenols was higher in the covalent conjugates (maximum in free radical grafting) than the noncovalent conjugates (maximum seen at pH 7). The conjugation was confirmed by decreased intrinsic fluorescence intensity (>30%), increased UV–visible absorbance and changed intensity of peaks in amide I region of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). The conjugates that were prepared by the covalent (free radical grafting) and noncovalent (pH 7) methods exhibited much better emulsifying activity and emulsion stability than the alkaline conjugates for both caffeic and ferulic acid.
Depuration of live oysters to reduce Vibrio parahaemolyticus and Vibrio vulnificus: A review of ecology and processing parameters
Authors: Campbell Vashti M. , Chouljenko Alexander , Hall Steven G.
Published: May 2022

Consumption of raw oysters, whether wild‐caught or aquacultured, may increase health risks for humans. Vibrio vulnificus and Vibrio parahaemolyticus are two potentially pathogenic bacteria that can be concentrated in oysters during filter feeding. As Vibrio abundance increases in coastal waters worldwide, ingesting raw oysters contaminated with V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus can possibly result in human illness and death in susceptible individuals. Depuration is a postharvest processing method that maintains oyster viability while they filter clean salt water that either continuously flows through a holding tank or is recirculated and replenished periodically. This process can reduce endogenous bacteria, including coliforms, thus providing a safer, live oyster product for human consumption; however, depuration of Vibrios has presented challenges. When considering the difficulty of removing endogenous Vibrios in oysters, a more standardized framework of effective depuration parameters is needed. Understanding Vibrio ecology and its relation to certain depuration parameters could help optimize the process for the reduction of Vibrio. In the past, researchers have manipulated key depuration parameters like depuration processing time, water salinity, water temperature, and water flow rate and explored the use of processing additives to enhance disinfection in oysters. In summation, depuration processing from 4 to 6 days, low temperature, high salinity, and flowing water effectively reduced V. vulnificus and V. parahaemolyticus in live oysters. This review aims to emphasize trends among the results of these past works and provide suggestions for future oyster depuration studies.
Effective approaches for early identification and proactive mitigation of aflatoxins in peanuts: An EU–China perspective
Authors: Krska Rudolf , Leslie John F. , Haughey Simon , Dean Moira , Bless Yoneal , McNerney Oonagh , Spence Michelle , Elliott Chris
Published: May 2022

Nearly 700,000 tonnes of peanuts are consumed annually in Europe. In the last 5 years, peanuts imported from China exceeded legal European Union (EU) aflatoxin limits more than 180 times. To prevent and mitigate aflatoxin contamination, the stages of the peanut chain most vulnerable to contamination must be assessed to determine how to interrupt the movement of contaminated produce. This paper discusses effective approaches for early identification and proactive mitigation of aflatoxins in peanuts to reduce a contaminant that is an impediment to trade. We consider (i) the results of the EU Commission's Directorate‐General (DG) for Health and Food Safety review, (ii) the Code of Practice for the prevention and reduction of aflatoxins in peanuts issued by Food and Agriculture Organization/World Health Organization, (iii) the results from previous EU–China efforts, and (iv) the latest state‐of‐the‐art technology in pre‐ and postharvest methods as essential elements of a sustainable program for integrated disease and aflatoxin management. These include preharvest use of biocontrol, biofertilizers, improved tillage, forecasting, and risk monitoring based on analysis of big data obtained by remote sensing. At the postharvest level, we consider rapid testing methods along the supply chain, Decision Support Systems for effective silo management, and effective risk monitoring during drying, storage, and transport. Available guidance and current recommendations are provided for successful practical implementation. Food safety standards also influence stakeholder and consumer trust and confidence, so we also consider the results of multiactor stakeholder group discussions.
The role of conching in chocolate flavor development: A review
Authors: Augusto Pedro Pio C. , Bolini Helena M. A.
Published: May 2022

Chocolate is an indulgent product whose consumption is mostly motivated by its alluring sensory properties. Among them, flavor stands as the key driver for consumer preference and purchase intention. Flavor is a complex multimodal perception whose discrimination depends mostly on the retronasal aromas associated with the presence of odor‐active compounds in the matrix. The development of chocolate flavor relies on several factors, ranging from intrinsic properties of raw materials to formulation and processing conditions. As the last step of liquid chocolate manufacture, conching develops proper fluidity/texture and finetunes flavor, by means of intensive mixing and continuous heating of chocolate mass for several hours. Time and temperature are the main parameters determining the extent of conching effects upon flavor, despite factors such as ventilation, energy input onto chocolate mass, and configuration of conching machine being also relevant to some of the physicochemical mechanisms involved in flavor modification. Overall, conching impacts chocolate flavor by either changing the concentration of key odor‐active compounds or modifying their distribution throughout the matrix, affecting their binding to other components and, ultimately, their rate of release during ingestion. The present review aims to gather evidence on the physicochemical transformations promoted by conching responsible for flavor enhancement and overall sensory quality of chocolates.
The UK’s Agri‐food Trade Policies One Year On From Brexit
Authors: Swinbank Alan
Published: May 2022

In January 2021 the UK left the EU. Brexit was ‘done’. One year later the shape of Global Britain’s agri‐food trade policies is somewhat clearer. The core EU agreements are a Trade and Cooperation Agreement (TCA), and a Protocol on Ireland/Northern Ireland. The protocol meant that Northern Ireland remained in the EU’s Customs Union and Single Market, and in the UK’s Customs Union. It has caused considerable political controversy within Northern Ireland. Implementing these agreements – particularly sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) controls – has proved problematic for traders, and politically controversial. The UK’s new Global Tariff, for products that do not enter on a preferential basis, largely replicates the prohibitively high tariffs on meat, dairy and sugar, the UK inherited from membership of the EU. It has successfully ‘rolled‐over’ FTA agreements the EU had negotiated with over 70 trading partners. New FTAs have been negotiated with Australia and New Zealand. These open‐up the UK’s market to imports of beef, dairy products and sugar, to the chagrin of UK farmers, but the potential benefit of consumers. Existing EU suppliers to the UK face increased competition, and loss of market share. Further trade liberalisation is likely to increase the downward pressure on UK farmgate prices, feeding through to lower consumer prices.
Alteration in dough volume and gluten network of lychee pulp pomace bread base on mixture design dominated by particle size
Authors: Xu Canhua , Xiong Xiong , Zeng Qingzhu , Yuan Yang , He Shan , Dong Lihong , Huang Fei , Nag Anindya , Su Dongxiao
Published: May 2022

The reducing flavor of whole grain bread has been constantly affecting the consumption desire of a significant proportion of consumers. The study presents the use of lychee pulp pomace (LPP) powder to replace certain proportion of wheat flour and produce wheat bread with better quality, while having minimal effects on the volume and improving the nutritional quality. Distinct particle sizes (60–400 µm) of LPP powder were obtained by superfine or ordinary grinding. Effect of different additive proportions (7–19%) of LPP powder on bread dough quality were studied by constrained mixture designs. The volume of fermented doughs subsequently decreased after adding LPP powder. However, LPP powders with smaller particle sizes were able to minimize this effect due to its higher water‐holding capacity. The analyses of gluten network showed that smaller particle sizes of LPP powder resulted in a decrease in surface hydrophobicity and increase in the elasticity and stability of gluten network. Finally, optimum mixture formula was composed of 16% LPP powder with 60 µm particle size and 15% water. The study illustrated the potential to make high‐quality bread with small particle size of LPP powder.

Practical Application

The addition of dietary fiber to wheat flour can adversely affect the dough volume and reduce the dough quality. By reducing the particle size of lychee pulp pomace powder, this adverse effect could be minimized while increasing the content of dietary fiber and bound phenolics in the dough. This provides data for the production of high‐quality lychee dough bread.
Development of a multilayer insect‐repelling film with trans‐anethole for the storage of almond flake cereal
Authors: Choi Inyoung , Kim Seungyeon , Lee Jung‐Soo , Chang Yoonjee , Han Jaejoon
Published: May 2022

Trans‐anethole (AN), which exhibits strong insect–repellent activity against Plodia interpunctella larvae, was applied on a polyethylene terephthalate (PET) film as an active packaging coating layer. All developed films at different concentrations (25%, 30%, 40%, and 50%) exhibited significant insect repellent activities. However, these films did not significantly differ from the control film in terms of color and transparency. In addition, the developed polypropylene (PP) and PET laminated films containing 25% AN (PP/AN25/PET) exhibited strong and continuous insect‐repellent activity for up to 42 days. Finally, the developed film showed 2.86‐fold stronger repellent activity than that of the control film when applied to the almond flake cereals packaging. These results suggest that PP/AN25/PET could be used as a potent insect‐repelling packaging film in a realistic grain‐packaging system.

Practical Application

A PP/trans‐anethole/PET film that exhibited good insect‐repellent activity for 42 days was newly developed in this study. As it showed strong insect repellency, especially in almond flake cereals packaging, it is expected to have high potential as an insect‐repelling grain‐packaging film.
Covalent modification of zein with polyphenols: A feasible strategy to improve antioxidant activity and solubility
Authors: Xu Yanan , Wei Zihao , Xue Changhu , Huang Qingrong
Published: May 2022

Covalent modification of protein with polyphenols is an attractive research topic, since it is an effective way to improve the properties and broaden the applications of protein. However, the majority of prolamin–polyphenol reactions were carried out in alcohol aqueous solution, and this study aimed to investigate the covalent interaction of zein and polyphenols in water. Chlorogenic acid (CGA), gallic acid (GA), and caffeic acid (CA) were used as polyphenol models. The grafting ratio revealed that zein interacted more strongly with CGA and CA than with GA, which was probably due to the larger molecular weight of CGA and the hydroxycinnamic acid structure of CA. Afterward, the differences in structural and functional properties between control zein and zein–polyphenol complexes were compared. Covalent interaction with polyphenols induced great changes in the morphology and secondary structure of zein. Compared with control zein and non‐covalent complexes, covalent zein–polyphenol complexes exhibited better solubility, antioxidant activity, and thermal stability.

Practical Application

Covalent modification of zein with polyphenols in water is a simple and efficient method, which can ameliorate the antioxidant activity as well as the hydrophilicity of zein and improve its application value. The findings of this research carry important implications for using zein–polyphenol complexes as novel food additives, or to design more efficient delivery systems.
The Impacts of Drought on Southwest Tribal Economies
Authors: Drugova Tatiana , Curtis Kynda R. , Kim Man‐Keun
Published: May 2022

Drought negatively impacts agricultural productivity, often causing reduced crop yields and damage to pasture and rangelands. Droughts are particularly concerning for Native American reservations in the arid United States Southwest, as agricultural production on the reservations provides an important economic base. This study evaluates the impacts of drought on the cattle and hay sectors and resulting economic impacts on tribal communities in Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah. Panel data analysis is used to estimate the impacts of drought, assessed using the Palmer Drought Severity Index (PDSI), on reservation cattle inventory and hay yields. Then, the supply‐driven social accounting matrix approach is used to quantify the total economic impacts on tribal economies given hypothetical drought scenarios. Results show that drought impacts cattle production more than hay/forage production. Each additional year of drought reduces cattle inventory by 1.9% in the following year. Furthermore, for every unit decrease in PDSI each year, cattle inventory and hay yields decline by 0.3% and 0.4%, respectively. The drought scenarios examined result in hefty economic losses for large reservation areas such as the Uintah and Ouray Reservation, Navajo Nation, and Tohono O'odham Nation. To alleviate the negative impacts of drought on reservation economies, hurdles that limit tribal ability to mitigate and adapt to drought and climate change impacts should be addressed.
International initiation and termination of resuscitation practices: Protocol of a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Havshøj Ulrik , Juhl Ida‐Marie Dreijer , Milling Louise , Jørgensen Jeannett Kjær , Christensen Helle Collatz , Lippert Freddy , Morrison Laurie J. , Mikkelsen Søren , Brøchner Anne Craveiro
Published: May 2022

Background

Substantial variation in survival following out‐of‐hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) is described both internationally and nationally. The Utstein factors account for half of the variation, but the remaining is not fully understood. Local regulations or guidelines concerning the withholding and termination of resuscitation may influence the reporting of cardiac arrests when comparing outcomes between different Emergency Medical Service systems.

Method

We have developed an online cross‐sectional mixed‐methods explanatory design survey aimed at describing the international and national variations in the initiation, the termination of resuscitation, and the refraining from resuscitation of adult patients (>18 years of age) suffering from non‐traumatic OHCA. The respondents will be national experts and the questionnaire will be distributed among members of European Prehospital Research Alliance, the International Liaison Committee of Resuscitation, the European Resuscitation Council, and the Resuscitation Academy. Each invited country will have to identify at least two national experts with special expertise in prehospital resuscitation practices. We exclude countries with less than two respondents.

Results

The survey will provide both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data will be presented as frequencies and proportions. Qualitative data will be analyzed using content analysis.

Conclusion

This survey could be of importance in understanding the multiple factors leading to the substantial variation in survival found following OHCA. Furthermore, the interpretation of future studies on OHCA from different settings may be improved to further increase survival following OHCA.
New virtual platform for teaching comparative animal neuroanatomy based on metameric slices of the central nervous system
Authors: da Silva Mônica Duarte , Castro Guglielmi Ricardo Martins de Azevedo , Cereta Andressa Daronco , Magalhães Henrique Inhauser Riceti , Ribeiro Rafaela Rodrigues , Salazar José Miguel Velásquez , Miglino Maria Angelica
Published: May 2022

With the limitations imposed by the COVID‐19 pandemic, new technologies were used as methods to continue teaching and learning activities. This scenario brought forth the need to develop online tools for teaching. Therefore, this research aimed to develop a digital platform linking the knowledge about the central nervous system (CNS) anatomy from feline, equine, and sheep models. The platform was produced from the analysis of a collection of mesoscopic slides made from the sequenced cross‐section of the CNS of a feline, an equine, and a sheep. All sections were analysed and stained using the Paul‐Wiegert modified technique. The platform was organized in four modules: (1) Neuroanatomy of the Central Nervous System; (2) Neuroanatomy of Feline; (3) Neuroanatomy of Equine; and (4) Neuroanatomy of sheep. For each module, an explanatory document in PDF was developed, as well as video lectures and a descriptive atlas identifying the structures present in the encephalon and in the cervical part of the spinal cord. Even though there are numerous online platforms that allow the study of veterinary anatomy of different species and organs, the veterinary neuroanatomy platform presented here is the first platform that conjointly addresses the CNS anatomy of felines, equines, and sheep. Future research applying this platform as an aid to the study of neuroanatomy by students, teachers, and veterinary professionals should validate its use as a complementary tool for teaching and learning animal neuroanatomy.
Firm Misvaluation and Corporate Social Responsibility*
Authors: Jin Yaling
Published: May 2022

This paper shows that overvalued firms have better performance in corporate social responsibility. Using hypothetical mutual fund outflow pressure, I establish causality from misvaluation to corporate social responsibility performance. Further analysis reveals that the effect of firm misvaluation on corporate social responsibility performance is stronger for firms with greater financial strengths, higher socially responsible investor ownership, higher long‐term institutional investor ownership, and during high corporate social responsibility sentiment periods. Overall, the results reveal the incentives of firms to engage in corporate social responsibility activities in overvaluation to cater to investors who prefer better corporate social responsibility performance.
Application of Emax model to assess the potency of topical corticosteroid products
Authors: Rath Seeprarani , Zvidzayi Michael , Bon Charles , Kanfer Isadore
Published: May 2022

The objective of this study was to compare the potencies of two topical corticosteroid products (TCPs) using the Emax model to fit the skin blanching responses obtained from the US FDA's vasoconstrictor assay (VCA) and to illustrate the influence of formulation on potency. The potencies of two marketed TCPs, Dermovate® cream containing clobetasol propionate (CP) and Elocon® cream containing mometasone furoate (MF), were assessed using healthy human subjects. In order to investigate the influence of formulation and associated vehicle properties, the creams were compared with their respective topical corticosteroids (TCs) from a previously published study wherein the inherent potencies of those TCs were assessed using a validated VCA method. Whereas the inherent potency of MF (Emax = −94.45 ± 0.21) was found to be greater than CP (Emax = −58.80 ± 15.65), when formulated as creams, the TCP containing CP had a higher potency (Emax = −86.15 ± 0.17) than that containing MF (Emax = −42.61 ± 26.04). This reversal of potency may be attributed to the effect of formulation factors. The comparison of the potencies of TCPs with inherent potencies of their corresponding TCs confirmed the influence of formulation parameters on the potency of those products.
Identification of seasonal variation in the diagnosis of acute myeloid leukaemia: a population‐based study
Authors: Sánchez‐Vizcaíno Fernando , Tamayo Carmen , Ramos Fernando , Láinez‐González Daniel , Serrano‐López Juana , Barba Raquel , Martin Maria Dolores , Llamas Pilar , Alonso‐Dominguez Juan Manuel
Published: May 2022

Until now, the role that seasonal factors play in the aetiology of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) has been unclear. Demonstration of seasonality in AML diagnosis would provide supportive evidence of an underlying seasonal aetiology. To investigate the potential seasonal and long‐term trends in AML diagnosis in an overall population and in subgroups according to sex and age, we used population‐based data from a Spanish hospital discharge registry. We conducted a larger study than any to date of 26 472 cases of AML diagnosed in Spain between 2004 and 2015. Using multivariable Poisson generalized linear autoregressive moving average modelling, we found an upward long‐term trend, with monthly incidence rates of AML annually increasing by 0.4% [95% confidence interval (CI), 0.2%–0.6%; p = 0.0011]. January displayed the highest incidence rate of AML, with a minimum average difference of 7% when compared to February (95% CI, 2%–12%; p = 0.0143) and a maximum average difference of 16% compared to November (95% CI, 11%–21%; p < 0.0001) and August (95% CI, 10%–21%; p < 0.0001). Such seasonal effect was consistent among subgroups according to sex and age. Our finding that AML diagnosis is seasonal strongly implies that seasonal factors, such as infectious agents or environmental triggers, influence the development and/or proliferation of disease, pointing to prevention opportunities.
Patient reported outcome measures assessing quality of life in patients with an intestinal stoma: A systematic review
Authors: Skibsted Christian Valdemar , Jensen Bente Thoft , Juul Therese , Kristensen Helle Ø.
Published: May 2022

Aim

Living with a stoma can greatly influence quality of life. The purpose of this systematic review was to identify all patient reported outcome measures (PROMs) assessing health related quality of life (HRQoL) or similar constructs related to an intestinal stoma and to evaluate their level of validation.

Methods

The study was reported in line with PRISMA guidelines. The protocol was registered in PROSPERO prior to the study. Eligible studies were any study investigating psychometric properties of a stoma‐specific PROM. The databases MedLine, Embase, CINAHL and Cochrane Libraries were searched for eligible studies. Studies were screened on title and abstract, then full‐text for eligibility. Data extraction on the study populations, PROM characteristics, psychometric properties as well as quality assessment using the COSMIN Risk of Bias checklist was performed.

Results

In total, 40 studies were included concerning the development and/or validation of 21 PROMs. For most PROMs, few psychometric properties were assessed. In general, quality of content validity was poor, quality of construct validity and reliability was good. Assessment of responsiveness was lacking.

Conclusion

This systematic review offers an overview of existing PROMs measuring stoma‐related HRQoL and their psychometric properties. A large number of PROMs exist and their measures overlap considerably. The PROMs generally have a low level of validation, emphasizing the need for future studies to further validate existing PROMs, rather than developing new ones.
‘Plant, Sleep, Pick’: Ambivalent Smallholder Market Engagement and Inclusive Value Chains in Northwest Nepal
Authors: Lewison Elsie
Published: May 2022

Inclusive value chain frameworks have been widely adopted by states and international development agencies as a strategy for addressing rural poverty. The approach aims to improve smallholder farmers’ linkages to agricultural markets and to increase the value of their products within these markets. Inclusive value chain initiatives targeting apple producers in northwestern Nepal are illustrative of this development approach. This article examines apple production in Jumla District, which has expanded rapidly over the last two decades, and shows how value chain development interventions have sought to accelerate a shift towards commercial agriculture by linking producers to agribusiness partners and upgrading production. A central assumption of these interventions is that farmers will aim to maximize profits through entrepreneurial strategies within targeted value chains. However, as this article demonstrates, a closer investigation of the political ecology of apple production in the region calls this assumption into question. The article argues that the popularity of apples in Jumla District must be situated within processes of agrarian change and livelihood diversification that have informed labour‐saving, risk‐averse approaches to apple market participation. The findings lend support to calls for strategies that prioritize autonomy and long‐term risk mitigation over competitive market integration.
Lived experiences of adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder
Authors: Skorka Kelly , Copley Jodie , McBryde Catherine , Meredith Pamela J. , Reid Natasha
Published: May 2022

Aim

To explore the lived experiences of adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) to understand: the ways in which their challenges influence daily functioning; and the personal assets and external resources that facilitate participation.

Method

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with four adolescents (one identified as non‐binary, one male, and two female) with FASD aged 13 to 15 years. A photo elicitation approach facilitated participation, whereby adolescents first took photographs of their daily activities and environments. Photographs were subsequently used to generate discussion during the interviews. Data analysis involved using interpretative phenomenological analysis to generate themes.

Results

Two superordinate themes and three subthemes relating to participants' lived experiences emerged from the interviews: (1) ‘anxiety challenges participation’ (subthemes [i] ‘need for external support’; [ii] ‘the power of positive relationships’; and [iii] ‘talents and interests facilitate participation’) and (2) ‘importance of a unique identity’.

Interpretation

Findings illustrated the barriers adolescents experienced regarding their daily functioning and independence. Additionally, incorporating strengths into daily activities appeared to reduce anxiety and improve participation, and adolescents desired for their unique characteristics to be recognized and appreciated. To support adolescents with FASD, service providers should consider incorporating strengths‐based approaches and an explicit focus on facilitating the development of positive self‐identities.

What this paper adds

Anxiety often prevented adolescents' independent participation in social activities, requiring caregiver assistance.

Strengths (e.g. talents, positive relationships) facilitated adolescents' participation and reduced their anxiety.

Clinicians and researchers should consider strengths‐based approaches to interventions targeting participation.

Interventions for adolescents with fetal alcohol spectrum disorder could focus on developing a positive self‐identity.
Positive airway pressure therapy in heart failure patients comorbid with obstructive sleep apnea: Cardiovascular outcomes and nighttime‐duration effect
Authors: Lin Ruihan , Yi Minhan , Yan Wenjie , Zhang Yuan
Published: May 2022

Background

Comorbidity of obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and heart failure (HF) is becoming increasingly common. This is a global analysis of positive airway pressure (PAP) efficacy for the cardiovascular outcomes in those HF Patients with comorbid OSA.

Methods

Related randomized controlled trials were included. Analysed indicators covered primary outcomes (cardiac function, motor ability and life quality) and secondary outcomes (blood pressure and OSA‐accompanying symptoms). Weighted mean difference was used to analyse the PAP‐control difference in different experimental phases and the baseline‐post difference in different groups.

Results

Compared with control group, PAP was associated with a 3.48% increase in left ventricle ejection fraction (LVEF) (p < .00001) and little decrease in heart rate (HR) (p = .67). Over 6 h of mean nighttime use was associated with a greater increase in LVEF of 5.21% (p = .0002) and a significant reduction in HR of 3.81 bpm (p = .03). There was no significant difference between PAP and control group in their association with change in motor ability and life quality. Besides, PAP was associated with a 13.08 mm Hg decrease in systolic blood pressure and great improvements in OSA‐accompanying symptoms: Apnea–Hypopnea Index, −23.73 e/h; mean oxygen saturation, 1.86%; minimum oxygen saturation, 8.78%; Epworth Sleepiness Scale, −1.39 point; arousal index, −16.41 e/h. There was also no significant difference in diastolic blood pressure.

Conclusions

Positive airway pressure treatment improves cardiac function in HF patients with comorbid OSA, but the improved magnitude is associated with the duration of nighttime use rather than the duration of treatment.
NCME Presidential Address 2021: Assessment Research and Practice in the Post‐COVID‐19 Era
Authors: Tong Ye
Published: May 2022

COVID‐19 is disrupting assessment practices and accelerating changes. With special focus on K‐12 and credentialing exams, this article describes the series of changes observed during the pandemic, the solutions assessment providers have implemented, and the long‐term impact on future practices. Additionally, this article highlights the importance of the balanced assessment system, the use of assessments both for learning and of learning, and using assessments to support for social justice, equity and inclusion. These desired uses and outcomes will continue to challenge assessment and measurement experts on how they design, develop, and implement assessments moving forward.
Nouveau signalement de Singhiella simplex (Singh, 1931) (Aleyrodidae) sur Ficus en Tunisie
Authors: Ben Halima Kamel Monia Kamel , Zouari Sana , Adouani Rihem , Ben Cheik Zohra
Published: May 2022

New report of Singhiella simplex (Singh, 1931) (Aleyrodidae) on Ficus in Tunisia

During September 2021, severe defoliation on Ficus microcarpa “Hawaii” (v) (Moraceae) was observed in several areas of Tunisia. Morphological identification showed the presence of Singhiella simplex (Singh, 1931) (Aleyrodidae). The whitefly was subsequently observed on various species of Ficus. When the paper was submitted (2021‐12‐26) this was the first report of S. simplex in Tunisia although another report has been published in the meantime.
Pilot phase results of a prospective, randomized controlled trial of narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Lau Frank H. , Powell Catherine E. , Adonecchi Giacomo , Danos Denise M. , DiNardo Andrew R. , Chugden Robert J. , Wolf Peter , Castilla Carmen F.
Published: May 2022

COVID‐19 morbidity and mortality are driven by poor immune regulation. Narrowband ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) phototherapy is standard of care in a number of immune‐dysregulated diseases. To assess the efficacy of NB‐UVB phototherapy for improving COVID‐19 outcomes in high‐risk, hospitalized, we developed the Adaptive Photo‐Protection Trial. This is a multi‐center, prospective, double‐blinded, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial. The pilot phase results are reported here. Consecutive patients admitted with a positive COVID‐19 PCR were screened for eligibility. Enrolled subjects were computer randomized 1:1 to NB‐UVB or placebo phototherapy. Subjects were treated daily with escalating doses on 27% of their body surface area for up to 8 consecutive days. Primary outcomes were safety and efficacy, defined as persistent or painful erythema and 28‐day mortality. Comparisons were made via non‐parametric exact tests. Patients in treatment (n = 15) and placebo (n = 15) arms had similar demographics. No adverse events occurred. Twenty eight‐day mortality was 13.3% in treatment vs. 33.3% in placebo arms (p = 0.39). NB‐UVB phototherapy in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients was safe. Decreased mortality was observed in treated patients but this was statistically non‐significant. Given its low‐cost, scalability, and adjunctive nature, NB‐UVB has the potential to improve COVID‐19 outcomes. Continuation of this trial is warranted.
Analysis of non‐severe acute onset autoimmune hepatitis according to the presence of radiological heterogeneity
Authors: Fujiwara Keiichi , Fukuda Yoshihiro , Seza Katsushi , Saito Masaya , Koizumi Shuko , Yokosuka Osamu , Kato Naoya
Published: May 2022

Aim

Diagnosis of acute onset autoimmune hepatitis (A‐AIH) has been difficult in that patients may not have typical clinicopathological features of AIH. In our previous reports of severe and fulminant AIH, two‐thirds of them showed radiological heterogeneity: hepatic heterogeneous hypoattenuation on unenhanced computed tomography (CT) reflecting heterogeneous distribution of massive hepatic necrosis (severe centrilobular necrosis), which would be beneficial for the diagnosis. In the present study, we analyzed non‐severe A‐AIH patients with or without radiological heterogeneity and tried to find novel clinical features for supporting the early diagnosis.

Methods

Clinical, biochemical, immunological, radiological and histological features of 42 patients with non‐severe A‐AIH at community hospitals between 2010 and 2020 were analyzed.

Results

Of 42, 28 patients on whom CT scans were performed and who could be fully analyzed were enrolled. Five patients showed hepatic heterogeneous hypoattenuation on unenhanced CT. There was no significant difference in clinical, biochemical, immunological and histological features at diagnosis between the two groups according to the presence of radiological heterogeneity, although mean minimum prothrombin time activity during the course was lower in patients with heterogeneity without statistical significance (p = 0.080). All responded to treatment well and achieved initial remission within 3 months.

Conclusions

It is possible that patients with non‐severe A‐AIH show radiological heterogeneity reflecting centrilobular necrosis which is one of important diagnostic features of A‐AIH. Accordingly, radiological heterogeneity might be beneficial for the diagnosis of A‐AIH in combination with conventional clinicopathological features if it is detected in the absence of features suggestive of other liver diseases.
Comprehensive assessments of immuno‐oncology drug‐based combination therapies as first‐line treatment for advanced renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Harada Ken‐ichi , Miyake Hideaki , Furukawa Junya , Fujimoto Naohiro , Fujisawa Masato
Published: May 2022

Over the last decade, there have been substantial progress in the field of systemic therapy for advanced renal cell carcinoma. Through the transition from treatment with cytokines to molecular‐targeted agents, and currently to immuno‐oncology drugs, the prognostic outcomes of patients with advanced renal cell carcinoma have been markedly improved. In particular, based on the promising outcomes of recently conducted pivotal randomized clinical trials, immuno‐oncology drug‐based combination therapy by either dual immune checkpoint inhibition or combined inhibition of an immune checkpoint and tyrosine kinase, is currently regarded as a standard of care for treatment‐naïve advanced renal cell carcinoma patients. However, insufficient data are available with respect to the selection of optimal systemic therapies for advanced renal cell carcinoma in the first‐line setting due to the lack of a head‐to‐head comparison between approved immuno‐oncology drug‐based combination therapies. In this review, therefore, we summarize interesting findings associated with first‐line combination therapies for advanced renal cell carcinoma obtained from both randomized clinical trials and real‐world clinical practices, in order to present useful guidance to help make treatment decisions for patients with treatment‐naïve advanced renal cell carcinoma.
Exceso de trabajo o fragmentación. Transacciones familiares y tiempo de trabajo en periodo de COVID‐19
Authors: CLOUET Hadrien
Published: May 2022

¿Cómo cambió el tiempo de trabajo de las personas asalariadas obligadas a teletrabajar por las medidas sanitarias francesas en 2020? A partir de un estudio cualitativo que combina entrevistas, observaciones directas y cuestionarios en una empresa municipal de aguas, se observa que el teletrabajo reestructura el tiempo de trabajo y redistribuye el poder regulador. Durante los confinamientos, la jornada laboral se prolonga y los ritmos de trabajo se modifican, con importantes variaciones según la configuración familiar: el confinamiento en familia frena la prolongación de la jornada pero favorece su fragmentación, efecto que se invierte en caso de confinamiento en solitario.
Inside the ‘efficacy gap’: Migration policy and the dynamics of encounter
Authors: Hagen‐Zanker Jessica , Mallett Richard
Published: May 2022

In recent years, migration has become an important policy priority within and beyond the European Union. While the discourse that surrounds the contemporary migration policy agenda is one of the technocratic migration management, this overarching narrative conceals an underlying goal of prevention. Preventive efforts are increasingly geared towards stopping migratory movements before they have even begun. The effectiveness of such an approach remains contested and unclear. This article builds on the theoretical work of Czaika and de Haas (Population and Development Review, 2013, 39, 487) to explore the limits of prevention strategies designed to change minds, alter plans and redirect behaviours. It does so by drawing on insights from our own research into migration decision‐making, alongside wider literature on individual sense‐making, and connecting these to ongoing debates around policy effectiveness. In doing so, we show how the nature of localised encounters between ‘target’ populations and implemented policies can create potential sources of policy failure.