bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A sphere askew: operations, territory and the public in the digital age
Authors: Fritzsche Albrecht
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The public is often associated with a spatial entity: the sphere. Recent technical developments, however, raise questions about the applicability of the sphere as a concept in social, political or economic studies. This paper aims to discuss two different intuitions related to spheres regarding operational and territorial attributes. It identifies a growing discrepancy between these intuitions as a result of the spread of digital technology in society. The notion of the sphere must therefore be used more carefully in the future.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper takes a conceptual approach based on constructs developed by Habermas for the analysis of the bourgeois public. The resulting twofold model is validated on the background of current research in organisational science and general considerations about the effect of digital technology on society.

Findings

The paper identifies an increasing inconsistency in the conceptions of social spheres, which implies that accustomed spatial concepts cannot further be used as before in this context. Exemplary evidence about this divergence is gathered from extant work in the field.

Originality/value

While a lot has already been said about social dynamics in the digital age, their consequences for the applicability of the sphere as a spatial concept have not yet been properly addressed. The paper identifies a fundamental problem in the discourse on social spheres in the digital age that challenges the internal consistency of the concept, independently from any further epistemological or ontological considerations.
Exploring the social side of CrossFit: a qualitative study
Authors: Lautner Shelby C. , Patterson Megan S. , Spadine Mandy N. , Boswell Taylor Graves , Heinrich Katie M.
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to qualitatively explore and describe the social environment of CrossFit®.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 6 focus groups (n = 48) and 16 interviews were held with CrossFit® participants, coaches and owners. Each focus group or interview was facilitated by trained members of the research team. After data collection was complete, four trained researchers analyzed transcriptions using an open coding method to derive themes from responses, followed by inter-rater reliability checks to ensure consistency in data analysis.

Findings

Five themes emerged including: support (the social capital community members received from others through CrossFit®, including encouragement, coaching and accountability); culture (describes how CrossFit® as a community embraces a variety of skill levels and members experience a sense of camaraderie, acceptance and shared goals); social aspect (ways CrossFit® incorporates and extends community through a welcoming environment and fostering relationships building); competition (competing with others and oneself at CrossFit® is key to motivation and success at the gym); and barriers to community (ways CrossFit® can at times be intimidating).

Practical implications

Although exploratory, this study suggests the importance of CrossFit®’s social environment for a participant’s experience. Future research could determine how relationships within CrossFit® relate to health outcomes.

Originality/value

This research is original and important to the field of mental health as it explores how CrossFit® can be leveraged as a strategy to promote social inclusion. CrossFit® provides an environment that promotes healthy habits such as community involvement and exercise.
A sociological study of suicide during COVID-19 in India
Authors: Patel Avanish Bhai , Kumar Sumant
Published: December 2020

Purpose

As we know that whole world is facing global pandemic or COVID-19 for past six months including India. It has created many psychosocial problems among the millions of people of the society. Committing suicide is one of them owing to COVID-19, and it is the matter of grave concern for the social psychologists. This study is based on secondary data. The purpose of this paper is to understand the nature of suicides in Indian society during COVID-19 and to explore the factors affecting committing suicides during COVID-19.

Design/methodology/approach

The secondary data have been collected for the study of suicide because of COVID-19 through various newspapers and monthly magazines. The cases of suicide because of COVID-19 have been collected between March 2020 and July 2020. The authors have used content analysis method to analyse the cases related to suicide because of COVID-19.

Findings

This study finds that the nature of committing suicide is anomic, egoistic and altruistic in the current pandemic. The study also points out that most of individuals have committed suicide in this current pandemic owing to fear of corona infection and economic crises because of nationwide lock down.

Originality/value

This is an original paper which is based on content analysis. Basically, the present paper has examined the nature of suicide in India because of COVID-19 and nationwide lockdown using Durkheim’s perspective of suicide.
The effects of simulator training on the development of creative thinking in law enforcement officers
Authors: VerPlanck Joy
Published: December 2020

Purpose

The purpose of this exploratory study was to investigate the relationship between simulation training and police officers' ability to think creatively in crises.

Design/methodology/approach

This quantitative study used instructional design principles including aspects of Cognitive Load Theory to explore the cognitive load and creative thinking of police officers training with a MILO Range use-of-force simulator.

Findings

When provided with scenarios requiring de-escalation of emotionally disturbed persons, and when encouraged to be creative or innovative in their approach to de-escalate, officers were observed being more creative after experiencing a second simulation with the same scenario; however, multiple repetitions of similar scenarios did not result in an innovative response.

Practical implications

The results of this study suggest that cognitive load could be affected by changing the manner in which the officers train in simulation. When a simulator curriculum is designed with the incorporation of cognitive load theory, there is potential to foster creative thinking in a situation where de-escalation is the goal.

Originality/value

Instructional design principles, consideration of cognitive load and creative problem-solving are nontraditional methods in the law enforcement field and in use-of-force training.
Financial literacy and financial behaviour: a bibliometric analysis
Authors: Ingale Kavita Karan , Paluri Ratna Achuta
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Numerous exploratory, conceptual and empirical enquiries on financial behaviour and literacy have been conducted in the areas of economics, finance, business and management. However, no attempt was made to present a comprehensive science mapping of the area so far. Hence, the study intends to elicit the trend in the research field through synthesis of knowledge structures.

Design/methodology/approach

Bibliometric analysis in the field of financial literacy and financial behaviour was performed on a sample of 1,138 documents based on a scientific search strategy run on the Web of Science database for the period 1985–2020. Biblioshiny, which is a web-based application included in Bibliometrix package developed in R-language (Ariaa and Cuccurullo, 2017), was used for the study. With the help of automated workflow in the software, prominent journals, authors, countries, articles, themes were identified; and citation, co-citation and social network analysis were conducted.

Findings

Results show that the themes of financial literacy and financial behaviour have evolved over a period of time as an interdisciplinary field. In the initial stages, researchers focused on demographic and socio-economic determinants, but gradually the field embraced topics like behavioural and psychological constructs influencing financial behaviour. Along with conceptual structure, this research reveals the intellectual and social structure of the domain. This study provides important insights on areas that need further investigation.

Research limitations/implications

The current research is a bibliometric analysis and hence limitations related to such studies are applicable. For future researchers to derive a strong conceptual framework, a systematic review of literature would be helpful. Science mapping for this study is limited to the Web of Science database owing to its wider coverage of good quality journals, structured formats which are compatible with the Bibliometrix software.

Practical implications

The current study provides important insights on financial literacy and financial behaviour and their inter-linkages. It highlights the most addressed issues in the area and leads towards the prospective areas for research. It informs the future researchers about the emergent themes, contexts and possibilities of collaborations in this area by revealing social and intellectual structure of the domain.

Social implications

The paper can provide important insights for policy formulation in the areas of financial education and literacy.

Originality/value

There has been lot of conceptual and empirical work done in the past, across countries, spanning the disciplines such as economics, finance, psychology and consumer behaviour. A major contribution of this study is that it consolidates fragmented literature in the area, highlights significant sources, authors and documents, while exploring the relation between financial literacy and financial behaviour.
Attitudes to ageing and quality of life in young and old older adults: an international cross-sectional analysis
Authors: Long Sarah , Laidlaw Kenneth , Lorimer Angus , Ferreira Nuno
Published: December 2020

Purpose

Although quality of life and attitudes to ageing have been explored in the context of mental and physical health problems in older adults, the interplay between these variables has received little attention. The purpose of this study is to explore how attitudes to ageing relate to and predict quality of life in an international sample of older people those of age 57 to 79 (youngest-old) and those over 80 years old (oldest-old).

Design/methodology/approach

A large international sample (n = 4,616) of participants recruited from 20 different countries completed a set of measures assessing several demographic variables, attitudes to ageing, older adult specific quality of life, general quality of life and depression.

Findings

Correlational and regression analysis showed that more positive attitudes to ageing were associated with and predicted better quality of life in older adults beyond demographic and depression variables. Those in the oldest-old group had significantly more negative attitudes to ageing and a poorer quality of life. However, positive attitudes to ageing remained a significant predictor of better quality of life in both the youngest-old and oldest-old age groups.

Originality/value

Attitudes to ageing play an important part in quality of life in older adults; however, the impact of these attitudes might be different according to age group. These results suggest that attitudes to ageing could be a possible clinical target in interventions aiming at improving quality of life in older adults.
Britain’s Choice: Polarisation or Cohesion
Authors: Surridge Paula
Published: December 2020

Britain’s Choice, a report published by More in Common, develops a new segmentation of the British public based on their core beliefs, values and identities. Identifying seven segments, the report aims to better understand the British public, the goal being to work out how to build a more cohesive Britain—the choice facing Britain being a path to further division and polarisation or one to greater solidarity and shared values. The report strikes a broadly optimistic turn and highlights the shared values across the seven groups, but there are warning signs in the data that there are still many issues on which these groups could be divided, the overlap between them, for now, limiting the success of attempts to do so and throwing up a ‘kaleidoscopic’ pattern that changes from issue to issue.
Policy directions to support generational renewal in European farming systems
Authors: Coopmans Isabeau , Dessein Joost , Accatino Francesco , Antonioli Federico , Gavrilescu Camelia , Gradziuk Piotr , Manevska‐Tasevska Gordana , Meuwissen Miranda , Peneva Mariya , Soriano Bárbara , Urquhart Julie , Wauters Erwin
Published: December 2020

Sufficient generational renewal is an important contributor to resilient farming systems but across the EU there is widespread concern over the so‐called ‘young farmer problem’. This article recommends several policy areas to support generational renewal. The first need is to clearly define the exact generational renewal challenge, since available data provide no clear‐cut evidence of an existing young farmer problem that is uniform across the EU. Second, while current policies seem effective in supporting the farm transfer process and providing aid during the early career phase of farmers, they lack targeting of the stage preceding farm take‐over, during which possible entrants develop a successor identity. Increasing the attractiveness of farming as both an occupational and a lifestyle choice appears to be important in stimulating entry into farming. Third, policymakers should give high priority to facilitating access to land and labour, and to accommodating the capital‐intensive nature of farming. Fourth, a mix of policies at different levels and domains that coherently contribute to the achievement of predefined goals regarding generational renewal is needed. Fifth, support for farm‐specific advice and personal coaching holds underexploited potential for addressing the specificity of on‐farm challenges regarding generational renewal.
Turbidite Reservoirs in the Dongying Sag, Bohai Bay Basin: Interactions between Carbonate Cementation and Hydrocarbon Charge
Authors: CHEN Xiaolan , ZHOU Zhenzhu , JIA Haibo , WANG Jian , XIA Haiyang , CHEN Yong
Published: December 2020

Turbidite sandstones have become increasingly significant in hydrocarbon exploration. Carbonate cementation occur commonly in turbidite reservoirs developing within the Paleocene lacustrine basins, Northeastern China. This study utilizes core data, thin section data and production data to investigate the interaction between the carbonate cementation and hydrocarbon charge within turbidite reservoirs in the Niuzhuang Sub‐sag of the Dongying Sag, Bohai Bay Basin, East China. The results reveal that the carbonate cementation is mainly developed at the top and bottom of the turbidite sandbodies, and even forms carbonate cement shells. Three stages of hydrocarbon accumulation are identified based on fluid inclusion analysis: stage I (27.5–24.6 Ma), stage II (14.0–5.0 Ma), and stage III (5.0–0 Ma). The interaction between the carbonate cementation and hydrocarbon charge has significant controls on the formation of a turbidite reservoir. The temporal relations and intensity relations between the two factors should be considered significantly. Moreover, hydrocarbon charge during the early stage can inhibit the carbonate cementation, favoring the hydrocarbon accumulation in turbidite reservoirs. Many deep‐lacustrine turbidite sandbodies surrounded by source rocks with abnormal high pressure, are also favorable for hydrocarbon accumulation. These results suggest that some deeply buried turbidite sandbodies with similar geological settings have high potential for hydrocarbon exploration.
Comparison of the analytical performance between the Oncomine Dx Target Test and a conventional single gene test for epidermal growth factor receptor mutation in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Sakaguchi Tadashi , Iketani Akemi , Furuhashi Kazuki , Nakamura Yuki , Suzuki Yuta , Ito Kentaro , Fujiwara Kentaro , Nishii Yoichi , Katsuta Koji , Taguchi Osamu , Hataji Osamu
Published: December 2020

Background

Next‐generation sequencing (NGS) has been implemented in clinical oncology to analyze multiple genes and to guide targeted therapy; however, little is known about the performance of the Oncomine Dx Target Test compared with conventional single gene tests for detecting EGFR mutations. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of the Oncomine Dx Target Test compared with a PNA‐LNA PCR clamp test to detect EGFR mutations.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed consecutive patients with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) from whom FFPE samples were simultaneously submitted for the Oncomine Dx Target Test, and a PNA‐LNA PCR clamp test using the same specimen. We subsequently compared the analysis success rates and detection rates between the two tests.

Results

A total of 116 samples were identified. The success rates and detection rates of EGFR mutations in the total number of samples were 90% and 28%, respectively for the Oncomine Dx Target Test, and 100% and 35% for the PNA‐LNA PCR clamp test. The Oncomine Dx Target Test was unable to analyze three samples (2%) due to the samples not passing the nucleic acid concentration threshold, and nine (8%) samples had invalid results. The exon 19 deletion was not detected by the Oncomine Dx Target Test in four cases (4%).

Conclusions

The analytical performance of the Oncomine Dx Target Test analysis for EGFR mutations may not be comparable with conventional single gene tests due to both invalid and false‐negative results.

Key points

Significant findings of the study

The success rate of the Oncomine Dx Target Test was significantly lower than the PNA‐LNA PCR clamp test.

Among the samples successfully analyzed, four exon 19 deletions were not detected by the Oncomine Dx Target Test.

What this study adds

The analytical performance of the Oncomine Dx Target Test may not be comparable with conventional single gene tests.

We should revise the sampling procedures, and review the sample quality assessment methods, to improve the analytical performance.
Tobacco cigarette and cannabis use among new mothers
Authors: Alshaarawy Omayma , Roskos Steven E. , Meghea Cristian I.
Published: December 2020

Background and Aims

In the United States, the prevalence of cannabis use during pregnancy has increased whereas tobacco smoking has decreased. This study aimed to estimate the prevalence of tobacco cigarette smoking and cannabis use among new mothers, stratified by breastfeeding status. Additionally, trend analysis was used to examine changes in tobacco and cannabis use over time.

Design

Cross‐sectional study based on the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES, 2001–18).

Setting

United States.

Participants

Population‐based sample of new mothers (within 2 years of childbirth) aged 20–44 years (n = 1332).

Measurements

For each NHANES data cycle, the prevalence of tobacco smoking measured by self‐report or serum cotinine was estimated. Additionally, we estimated the prevalence of cannabis use measured by self‐report. Using Joinpoint Regression, we tested for significant changes in trends and produced the average ‘data‐cycle’ percentage change (APC).

Findings

From 2001 to 2018, more than one in five new mothers were tobacco cigarette smokers. New mothers who were breastfeeding were less likely to smoke cigarettes [7.4%, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 4.9%, 10.9% compared with mothers who were not breastfeeding (25.7%, 95% CI = 22.3%, 29.3%]. Results from Joinpoint regression indicated no robust temporal trends for self‐reported tobacco smoking (APC = −1.3, 95% CI = −8.6, 6.7; P = 0.7) or for cotinine levels ≥ 4.47 ng/ml (APC = 0.3, 95% CI = −5.0, 5.9; P = 0.9), whereas cannabis use had increased among new mothers (APC = 23.7, 95% CI = 4.8, 46.0; P = 0.02).

Conclusions

Consistent with the increase seen among other subgroups, cannabis use has approximately doubled among US new mothers since 2005. There is no significant evidence of a change in tobacco smoking among US new mothers since 2001.
Relationship between crown and root canal anatomy of four‐rooted maxillary molar teeth
Authors: Aydın Hakan
Published: December 2020

This study aimed to determine the prevalence of four‐rooted teeth and the corresponding crown, root and canal morphology in maxillary molars. Cone‐beam computed tomographic images for 1200 patients were examined, and 1799 maxillary first molar (MFM) and 2123 maxillary second molar (MSM) teeth were evaluated. Statistical analyses were performed at a 5% significance level. Only three MFMs (0.17%) and 30 maxillary MSMs (1.41%) were four‐rooted. The most common four‐root type was the double palatal root. A higher proportion of four‐rooted teeth were observed in men (P < 0.05), and a high percentage of root fusion was seen in these teeth. The palatal half of the crown was wider in teeth with double palatal roots. Although rarely encountered, the diagnosis and proper treatment of these teeth are very important for endodontic success.
Precision of the Nidek Tonoref II autokeratometer: how many repeated measurements are required?
Authors: Javadi‐Ottosen Søren , Næser Kristian
Published: December 2020

Purpose

To determine the minimal number of repeated measurements required for precise Nidek Tonoref II autokeratometry.

Methods

This prospective, non‐intervention study was performed at the Department of Ophthalmology, Randers, Denmark. We used the Nidek Tonoref II autokeratometer to perform 10 successive measurements on 100 right eyes of cooperative individuals. Each keratometry was converted to the spherical equivalent power (SE), while the net astigmatism was converted to polar values along zero (KP(0)) and 45 degrees (KP(45)). All units were in dioptres (D). The precision was calculated as the mean absolute difference between paired measurements, using one or the average of two, three, four or five autokeratometries. Statistical assessment was performed with Dunn’s test for repeated measurements with a Bonferroni correction.

Results

The precision of SE, KP(0) and KP(45) increased statistically significantly from one to three measurements, with no significant improvement for autokeratometries based on four or five measurements. There was no significant precision difference between one and two measurements.

Conclusion

A single keratometry is inadequate, but the vector average of three measurements is sufficient for precise autokeratometry with the Tonoref II device. The consistent use of three keratometries with this device may increase the precision of spherical and toric IOL calculation.
Relationships and trust: Two key pillars of a well‐functioning freestanding midwifery unit
Authors: Rocca‐Ihenacho Lucia , Yuill Cassandra , McCourt Christine
Published: December 2020

Background

Despite strong evidence supporting the expansion of midwife‐led unit provision, as a result of optimal maternal and perinatal outcomes, cost‐effectiveness, and positive service user and staff experiences, scaling‐up has been slow. Systemic barriers associated with gender, professional, economic, cultural, and social factors continue to constrain the expansion of midwifery as a public health intervention globally. This article aimed to explore relationships and trust as key components of a well‐functioning freestanding midwifery unit (FMU).

Method(s)

A critical realist ethnographic study of an FMU located in East London, England, was conducted over a period of 15 months. Recruitment of the 82 participants was purposive. Data collection included participant observation and semi‐structured interviews, and data were analyzed thematically along with relevant local guidelines and documents.

Results

Twelve themes emerged. Relationships and Trust were identified as a core theme. The other 11 themes were grouped into six families, three of which: Ownership, Autonomy, and Continuous Learning; Team Spirit, Interdependency, and Power Relations; and Salutogenesis will be covered in this paper. The remaining three families: Friendly Environment; Having Time and Mindfulness; and Social Capital, will be covered in a separate paper.

Conclusions

A relationship‐based model of care was crucial for both the functioning of the FMU and service users’ satisfaction and may offer a compelling response to high levels of stress and burnout among midwives.
Gouvernance municipale et information: étude exploratoire sur l’utilisation optimale des données 311
Authors: Caron Daniel J. , Lyall Nelson Eric , Bernardi Sara
Published: December 2020

Sommaire

L’article présente une recherche exploratoire portant sur le potentiel d’utilisation de l’intelligence artificielle pour analyser les informations obtenues à travers les requêtes effectuées auprès de centres municipaux d’appels non urgents (CANU). La recherche établit trois utilisations possibles des informations provenant d’un CANU soit pour des fins de gestion interne, de prestation de services ou de prise de décisions stratégique. Ces utilisations de l’information sont explorées à travers l’analyse du CANU de la Ville de Gatineau. Les résultats établissent deux séries d’hypothèses pour favoriser une utilisation optimale des données amassées à l’aide d’outils numériques sophistiqués. La recherche montre que les CANU pourraient être des nœuds informationnels consacrés au traitement, à la répartition et à l’analyse stratégique des informations.
Influence of HLA-C environment on the spontaneous clearance of hepatitis C in European HIV–HCV co-infected individuals
Authors: Legrand N , David G , Rodallec A , Gaultier A , Salmon D , Cesbron A , Wittkop L , Raffi F , Gendzekhadze K , Retière C , Allavena C , Gagne K
Published: December 2020

Natural killer (NK) cell functions are regulated by diverse inhibitory and activating receptors, including killer cell immunoglobulin-like receptors (KIR), which interact with human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules. Some KIR/HLA genetic combinations were reported associated with spontaneous clearance (SC) of hepatitis C virus (HCV) but with discordant results, possibly reflecting KIR and/or HLA gene polymorphism according to populations. KIR/HLA genetic combinations associated with both an exhaustive NK and T cell repertoire were investigated in a cohort of HIV–HCV co-infected individuals with either SC (n = 68) or chronic infection (CI, n = 163) compared to uninfected blood donors [controls (Ctrl), n = 100]. Multivariate analysis showed that the HLA C2C2 environment was associated with SC only in European HIV–HCV co-infected individuals [odds ratio (OR) = 4·30, 95% confidence interval = 1·57–12·25, P = 0·005]. KIR2D+ NK cell repertoire and potential of degranulation of KIR2DL1/S1+ NK cells were similar in the SC European cohort compared to uninfected individuals. In contrast, decreased frequencies of KIR2DS1+ and KIR2DL2+ NK cells were detected in the CI group of Europeans compared to SC and a decreased frequency of KIR2DL1/S1+ NK cells compared to controls. Regarding T cells, higher frequencies of DNAX accessory molecule-1 (DNAM-1)+ and CD57+ T cells were observed in SC in comparison to controls. Interestingly, SC subjects emphasized increased frequencies of KIR2DL2/L3/S2+ T cells compared to CI subjects. Our study underlines that the C2 environment may activate efficient KIR2DL1+ NK cells in a viral context and maintain a KIR2DL2/L3/S2+ mature T cell response in the absence of KIR2DL2 engagement with its cognate ligands in SC group of HCV–HIV co-infected European patients.
Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada patients show higher frequencies of circulating NKG2Dpos NK and NK T cells
Authors: Bonacini M , Cimino L , De Simone L , Bolletta E , Gozzi F , Soriano A , Muratore F , Zerbini A , Fontana L , Salvarani C , Croci S
Published: December 2020

Vogt–Koyanagi–Harada (VKH) is an autoimmune disease characterized by inflammation in tissues that contain melanocytes. We aimed to increase the knowledge regarding immunological pathways deregulated in VKH disease. We compared the percentages of circulating natural killer (NK), NK T and T cells expressing the activatory markers: CD16, CD69, NK group 2D (NKG2D), natural cytotoxicity triggering receptor 3 (Nkp30), natural cytotoxicity triggering receptor 1 (Nkp46) and the inhibitory marker: NK group 2 member A (NKG2A) in 10 active VKH patients, 20 control subjects (CTR) and seven patients with Behçet disease (BD) by flow cytometry. Cytotoxic potential of NK cells was determined through the degranulation marker CD107a expression after contact with K562 cells by flow cytometry. Moreover, plasmatic levels of 27 cytokines were determined with a multiplex bead-based assay. VKH patients showed higher percentages of NKG2Dpos NK and NK T cells versus CTR. The cytotoxic potential of NK cells induced by K562 cells was comparable between VKH patients and CTR. Finally, higher concentrations of interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, IL-7, IL-17 and platelet-derived growth factor-subunits B (PDGF-bb) were detected in plasma of VKH patients versus CTR. The immune profile of VKH patients was similar to that of BD patients.
Acyl‐CoA synthetase long chain family member 4 plays detrimental role in early brain injury after subarachnoid hemorrhage in rats by inducing ferroptosis
Authors: Qu Xiao‐feng , Liang Tian‐yu , Wu De‐gang , Lai Nian‐sheng , Deng Ru‐ming , Ma Chao , Li Xiang , Li Hai‐ying , Liu Yi‐zhi , Shen Hai‐tao , Chen Gang
Published: December 2020

Aims

Acyl‐CoA synthetase long chain family member 4 (ACSL4) is closely related to tumor genesis and development in certain tissues. However, the function of ACSL4 in early brain injury (EBI) caused by subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) is unclear. In this study, we investigated the expression patterns and role of ACSL4 in SAH and post‐SAH EBI using a rat model of SAH.

Methods

The rat model of SAH was induced by autologous blood injection into the prechiasmatic cistern of rats. We also used two specific inhibitors of ferroptosis (Ferrostatin‐1 and Liproxstatin‐1) to investigate the role of ferroptosis in EBI.

Results

We found that ACSL4 levels in brain tissue increased significantly in post‐SAH EBI. Inhibiting the expression of ACSL4 using small interfering RNAs alleviated inflammation, blood‐brain barrier (BBB) impairment, oxidative stress, brain edema, and behavioral and cognitive deficits, and increased the number of surviving neurons, after SAH. Similar effects were obtained by suppressing ferroptosis.

Conclusions

ACSL4 exacerbated SAH‐induced EBI by mediating ferroptosis. These findings may provide a theoretical basis for potential therapy aimed at alleviating post‐SAH EBI.
Can multistakeholder forums empower indigenous and local communities and promote forest conservation? A comparative analysis of territorial planning in two Brazilian states with contrasting contexts
Authors: Gonzales Tovar Jazmin , Sarmiento Barletti Juan P. , Larson Anne M. , Barnes Grenville , Tucker Catherine M.
Published: December 2020

Multistakeholder forums (MSFs) are applied in territorial planning with the goal of bringing together diverse actors in decision‐making, allowing the participation and empowerment of indigenous and local communities, protecting their territories, and promoting community‐based conservation efforts. However, important questions remain. How are territorial planning MSFs shaped by context and power? Can they represent communities' diversity, respect their ancestral rights, and bring real change? This article explores how context and power affect the capacities and challenges of territorial planning MSFs to include, represent, empower, and benefit communities. Examining actors' perceptions, we comparatively analyze two cases, in two Brazilian states with contrasting contexts. We conclude that territorial planning MSFs are highly political spaces influenced by complexities in context, power relations, and communities' diversity. They may include, represent, and empower communities and help recognize and conserve their territories, but not necessarily. Especially in difficult settings, communities face more challenges than other actors to be represented and participate at MSFs, and territorial planning may empower or “invisibilize” communities. Other mechanisms (e.g., social action) can be key for communities instead of, or in synergy with, MSFs.
Modifying dietary patterns in cardiothoracic transplant patients to reduce cardiovascular risk: The AMEND‐IT Trial
Authors: Entwistle Timothy R. , Miura Kyoko , Keevil Brian G. , Morris Julie , Yonan Nizar , Pohl Matthew , Green Adele C. , Fildes James E.
Published: December 2020

Background

Cardiovascular disease (CVD) is common after cardiothoracic transplantation and causes substantial morbidity.

Aims

To assess feasibility and potential effectiveness of dietary interventions to reduce CVD risk.

Materials and Methods

In a pilot intervention, we recruited patients from a tertiary hospital and randomly allocated them to a Mediterranean or low‐fat diet for 12 months. Feasibility was measured by patient participation, retention, and adherence. Changes in weight, body mass index (BMI), heart rate, blood pressure, glucose markers, and blood lipids were assessed using longitudinal generalized estimating equation regression models with 95% confidence intervals.

Results

Of 56 heart and 60 lung transplant recipients, 52 (45%) consented, 41 were randomized, and 39 (95%) completed the study with good adherence to randomized diets. After 12 months, changes in many risk factors were seen in the Mediterranean and low‐fat‐diet groups, respectively, including mean BMI (–0.5 vs. 0.0 kg/m2), systolic/diastolic blood pressure +0.5/+0.1 vs –4.4/–3.5 mmHg; fasting glucose –0.26 vs –0.27 mmol/L; total cholesterol –0.56 vs –0.40 mmol/L. Changes in BMI and systolic/diastolic blood pressure in 49 eligible patients who did not take part were +0.7 kg/m2 and +2.5/+1.8 mmHg.

Discussion

Dietary interventions in cardiothoracic transplant patients are feasible and potentially beneficial.

Conclusion

A definitive nutritional intervention study in these high‐risk patients is warranted.
Showier plants host more larvae: distribution and movement of generalist caterpillars among plants in the field
Authors: Jones Lachlan C. , Rafter Michelle A. , Walter Gimme H.
Published: December 2020

1. Host recognition and movement among plant species is widely studied in adult insects. These behaviours are rarely considered in juveniles despite evidence that they also move between plants.

2. This study investigated what may influence caterpillars of a generalist moth Helicoverpa punctigera to move among individual plants and whether caterpillars gravitate towards more vigorously flowering plants in the field.

3. This study tested caterpillar behaviour towards potted plants of a primary and secondary host species. The plants were inserted into the ground 50 cm apart. Caterpillars were placed, alone, onto either the primary or secondary host and left for 24 h before recording their final position. Individual caterpillars were also placed on the ground equidistant from each plant species, and their orientation behaviour was filmed.

4. Caterpillars placed on either a primary or secondary host plant for 24 h moved to the other plant species a quarter of the time.

5. They mostly moved to the primary host when placed at equal distance from each plant species and appeared to track volatiles by raising and swaying their heads.

6. In field surveys of two native daisy hosts at multiple field sites, the number of flower heads on each plant or stand was recorded along with the number of Helicoverpa larvae. Almost all caterpillars were on the primary host species, and 76% were on plants with more flower heads than the median.

7. This study concludes that H. punctigera caterpillars approach plants with attractive volatiles but wander from both attractive and less attractive plants (Restlessness hypothesis). They therefore gravitate towards vigorously flowering primary hosts.
A global analysis of song frequency in passerines provides no support for the acoustic adaptation hypothesis but suggests a role for sexual selection
Authors: Mikula Peter , Valcu Mihai , Brumm Henrik , Bulla Martin , Forstmeier Wolfgang , Petrusková Tereza , Kempenaers Bart , Albrecht Tomáš
Published: December 2020

Animals use acoustic signals for communication, implying that the properties of these signals can be under strong selection. The acoustic adaptation hypothesis predicts that species in dense habitats emit lower‐frequency sounds than those in open areas because low‐frequency sounds propagate further in dense vegetation than high‐frequency sounds. Signal frequency may also be under sexual selection because it correlates with body size and lower‐frequency sounds are perceived as more intimidating. Here, we evaluate these hypotheses by analysing variation in peak song frequency across 5,085 passerine species (Passeriformes). A phylogenetically informed analysis revealed that song frequency decreases with increasing body mass and with male‐biased sexual size dimorphism. However, we found no support for the predicted relationship between frequency and habitat. Our results suggest that the global variation in passerine song frequency is mostly driven by natural and sexual selection causing evolutionary shifts in body size rather than by habitat‐related selection on sound propagation.
Brivaracetam as add‐on treatment in focal epilepsy: A real‐world time‐based analysis
Authors: Lattanzi Simona , De Maria Giovanni , Rosati Eleonora , Didato Giuseppe , Chiesa Valentina , Ranzato Federica , Canafoglia Laura , Cesnik Edward , Anzellotti Francesca , Meletti Stefano , Pauletto Giada , Nilo Annacarmen , Bartolini Emanuele , Marino Daniela , Tartara Elena , Luisi Concetta , Bonanni Paolo , Marrelli Alfonso , Stokelj David , Dainese Filippo
Published: December 2020

The study assessed the clinical response to add‐on brivaracetam (BRV) in real‐world practice by means of time‐to‐baseline seizure count methodology. Patients with focal epilepsy who were prescribed add‐on BRV were identified. Primary endpoint was the time‐to‐baseline seizure count defined as the number of days until each patient experienced the number of focal seizures that occurred in the 90 days before BRV initiation. Subgroup analysis was performed according to levetiracetam (LEV) status (naive vs prior use). Three‐hundred eighty‐seven patients were included. The overall median time‐to‐baseline seizure count was 150 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 130‐175) days. The median time‐to‐baseline seizure count was 198 (lower limit of 95% CI = 168) days for LEV‐naive patients, 126 (95% CI = 105‐150) days for patients with prior LEV use and withdrawal due to insufficient efficacy, and 170 (95% CI = 128‐291) days for patients who discontinued LEV due to adverse events (P = .002). The number of prior antiseizure medications (adjusted hazard ratio [adjHR] = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.02‐1.13, P = .009) and baseline monthly seizure frequency (adjHR = 1.004, 95% CI = 1.001‐1.008, P = .028) were independently associated with the primary endpoint. Add‐on BRV improved seizure control in LEV‐naive and LEV‐prior patients. The time‐to‐baseline seizure count represents an informative endpoint alongside traditional study outcomes and designs.
Antidepressant‐like effect of low dose of scopolamine in the H/Rouen genetic mouse model of depression
Authors: El Yacoubi Malika , Vaugeois Jean‐Marie , Jamain Stéphane
Published: December 2020

Rodent models of depression are useful for the investigation of cellular and neuronal mechanisms of antidepressant drugs and for the discovery of potential new targets. In this study, we examined the antidepressant‐like effect of scopolamine, a non‐selective muscarinic antagonist, in a genetic mouse model of depression obtained through a selective breeding strategy and called H/Rouen. In this model, we observed that scopolamine was active both in males and females at a lower dose (0.03 mg/kg) in the tail suspension test, 30 min following its administration, than observed in CD‐1 mice. In addition, we showed this antidepressant‐like effect was partly inhibited by an injection of 10 mg/kg of the AMPA receptor antagonist NBQX in both males and females, suggesting the antidepressant‐like effect of scopolamine was mainly driven by AMPA receptors in the H/Rouen mouse line. Altogether, our results showed the high sensitivity of the H/Rouen mouse model of depression to study the antidepressant‐like effects of pharmacological compounds.
The Effects of Fault‐Zone Cementation on Groundwater Flow at the Field Scale
Authors: Sproule Tyler G. , Spinelli Glenn A. , Wilson John L. , Fort Michael D. , Mozley Peter S. , Ciarico Jared
Published: December 2020

Fault zones are an important control on fluid flow, affecting groundwater supply, contaminant migration, and carbon storage. However, most models of fault seal do not consider fault zone cementation, despite the recognition that it is common and can dramatically reduce permeability. In order to study the field‐scale hydrogeologic effects of fault zone cementation, we conducted a series of aquifer pumping tests in wells installed within tens of meters of the variably cemented Loma Blanca Fault, a normal fault in the Rio Grande Rift. In the southern half of the study area, the fault zone is cemented by calcite; the cemented zone is 2‐8 m wide. In the center of the study area, the cemented fault zone is truncated at a buttress unconformity that laterally separates hydrostratigraphic units with a ∼40X difference in permeability. The fault zone north of the unconformity is not cemented. Constant rate pumping tests indicate that where the fault is cemented, it is a barrier to groundwater flow. This is an important demonstration that a fault with no clay in its core and similar sediment on both sides can be a barrier to groundwater flow by virtue of its cementation; most conceptual models for the hydrogeology of faults would predict that it would not be a barrier to groundwater flow. Additionally, the lateral permeability heterogeneity across the unconformity imposes another important control on the local flow field. This permeability discontinuity acts as either a no‐flow boundary or a constant head boundary, depending on the location of pumping.
Machine Learning Predictions of pH in the Glacial Aquifer System, Northern USA
Authors: Stackelberg Paul E. , Belitz Kenneth , Brown Craig J. , Erickson Melinda L. , Elliott Sarah M. , Kauffman Leon J. , Ransom Katherine M. , Reddy James E.
Published: December 2020

A boosted regression tree model was developed to predict pH conditions in three dimensions throughout the glacial aquifer system of the contiguous United States using pH measurements in samples from 18,386 wells and predictor variables that represent aspects of the hydrogeologic setting. Model results indicate that the carbonate content of soils and aquifer materials strongly controls pH and, when coupled with long flowpaths, results in the most alkaline conditions. Conversely, in areas where glacial sediments are thin and carbonate‐poor, pH conditions remain acidic. At depths typical of drinking‐water supplies, predicted pH >7.5—which is associated with arsenic mobilization—occurs more frequently than predicted pH <6—which is associated with water corrosivity and the mobilization of other trace elements. A novel aspect of this model was the inclusion of numerically based estimates of groundwater flow characteristics (age and flowpath length) as predictor variables. The sensitivity of pH predictions to these variables was consistent with hydrologic understanding of groundwater flow systems and the geochemical evolution of groundwater quality. The model was not developed to provide precise estimates of pH at any given location. Rather, it can be used to more generally identify areas where contaminants may be mobilized into groundwater and where corrosivity issues may be of concern to prioritize areas for future groundwater monitoring.
Brief descriptions of the principles of prominent methods used to study the penetration of materials into human hair and a review of examples of their use
Authors: Lourenço Carolina Botelho , Fava Ana Laura Masquetti , dos Santos Érica Mendes , de Macedo Lucas Malvezzi , Tundisi Louise Lacalendola , Ataide Janaína Artem , Mazzola Priscila Gava
Published: December 2020

Consumers are attracted to the latest fashion trends and different looks. This drives the search for novel hair treatments. Some chemicals present in hair treatment products can penetrate the hair shaft. These materials can either nourish or injure the hair cortex. Different techniques have been used to investigate the mechanism of molecule penetration and the conditions under which penetration occurs. This article reviews the techniques applied for this purpose. Various microscopy techniques are used to capture clear and colourful images to determine the diffusion pathways and the exact location of the molecules under study. However, the laborious sample preparation often leads to sample destruction since cross‐sectioning is often required. While various other techniques have been successfully used for investigating the penetration methods, most of these require different amounts of work to be put in for sample preparation and instrumentation. Several spectroscopic techniques have been used to study the penetration of the molecules because of the high levels of accuracy and the quick response time of these techniques. Moreover, the samples are not damaged during the investigation.
Downregulation of Lymphoid enhancer‐binding factor 1 (LEF‐1) expression (by immunohistochemistry and/ flow cytometry) in chronic Lymphocytic Leukemia with atypical immunophenotypic and cytologic features
Authors: Soliman Dina S. , Al‐Kuwari Einas , Siveen Kodappully S , Al‐Abdulla Rajaa , Chandra Prem , Yassin Mohamed , Nashwan Abdulqader , Hilmi Feryal A , Taha Ruba Y , Nawaz Zafar , El‐Omri Halima , Mateo Jericha M , Al‐Sabbagh Ahmad
Published: December 2020

Introduction

Lymphoid enhancer‐binding factor 1 (LEF‐1) overexpression has been recently remarkably reported in chronic lymphocytic leukemia/small lymphocytic lymphoma (CLL/SLL) and has shown utility in distinguishing CLL/SLL from other B‐cell lymphomas. CLL has a well‐defined immunophenotype, yet, some cases of CLL demonstrate atypical morphology/ phenotype reflected by low Matutes score (atypical CLL). Till date, LEF1 expression has not been systematically studied in cases of CLL with atypical features.

Methods

In this study, LEF‐1 expression was assessed by two different techniques, (immunohistochemistry and flow cytometry), to investigate the expression profile of LEF‐1 in cases of CLL/SLL, in comparison with other low‐grade B‐lymphomas and CLL with atypical features, including atypical immunophenotype and CLL with increased prolymphocytes or morphologically atypical cells.

Results

We found that LEF‐1 expression is downregulated in CLL with atypical immunophenotype/features compared to classic CLL; Chi‐Square P < .0001. The ratio for LEF‐1 expression in malignant B‐cells/NK (by flow cytometry) in CLL/SLL with classic immunophenotype was higher than atypical CLL and is significantly higher in other small B‐cell lymphomas (P < .01). Absence of LEF‐1 expression in CLL/SLL is correlated (P < .05) with downregulation of CD5, CD23, CD200, expression of FMC7, brighter expression of CD79b, brighter expression of surface light chain, increased prolymphocytes and lower Matutes score.

Conclusion

As downregulation of LEF‐1 expression is well correlated with atypical CLL, we suggest adding LEF‐1 to Matutes score as a beneficial marker to differentiate classic from atypical CLL LEF‐1 could also serve as a potential prognostic indicator for CLL clinical course.