bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Quantifying Streamflow Depletion from Groundwater Pumping: A Practical Review of Past and Emerging Approaches for Water Management
Authors: Zipper Samuel C. , Farmer William H. , Brookfield Andrea , Ajami Hoori , Reeves Howard W. , Wardropper Chloe , Hammond John C. , Gleeson Tom , Deines Jillian M.
Published: February 2022

Groundwater pumping can cause reductions in streamflow (“streamflow depletion”) that must be quantified for conjunctive management of groundwater and surface water resources. However, streamflow depletion cannot be measured directly and is challenging to estimate because pumping impacts are masked by streamflow variability due to other factors. Here, we conduct a management‐focused review of analytical, numerical, and statistical models for estimating streamflow depletion and highlight promising emerging approaches. Analytical models are easy to implement, but include many assumptions about the stream and aquifer. Numerical models are widely used for streamflow depletion assessment and can represent many processes affecting streamflow, but have high data, expertise, and computational needs. Statistical approaches are a historically underutilized tool due to difficulty in attributing causality, but emerging causal inference techniques merit future research and development. We propose that streamflow depletion‐related management questions can be divided into three broad categories (attribution, impacts, and mitigation) that influence which methodology is most appropriate. We then develop decision criteria for method selection based on suitability for local conditions and the management goal, actionability with current or obtainable data and resources, transparency with respect to process and uncertainties, and reproducibility.
Morphological importance of coronary ostia in sheep and swine
Authors: Pereira Vitor Pires , Prates Bianca Machado , Seyfert Carlos Eduardo , de Morais‐Pinto Luciano
Published: February 2022

The aortic valve was investigated in 58 sheep and 60 swine without heart disease. After fixation in 4% formalin, the distance between the ostia and the elements of the right/left aortic sinuses was measured. For the left coronary ostium (LCO), it was found that in sheep 81% were below and 19% at the level of intercomissural line (IL). In pigs, 88.3% were below and 11.7% at the IL level. In sheep, the OCL was close to the right valve commissure (CVR) in 98.3% and close to the left valve commissure (CVV) in 1.7%. In pigs, it was close to RVC at 83.3% and close to LVC at 16.7%. Regarding to RCO, it was found that in sheep 69% was below, 1.7% was above and 29.3% at the IL level. In pigs, 20% were below, 15% above and 65% at the IL level. The distance of the RCO in relation to the valve commissures was 56.9% close to LVC and 43.1% close to RVC in sheep. In pigs, 81.7% were close to LVC and 18.3% close to RVC. The position of LCO was balanced between sheep and swine, while the RCO in swine was closer to CVE when compared with sheep. The accessory coronary ostium was observed in 18.6% of sheep and 10% of pigs. Thus, it is concluded that in sheep and swine the left coronary artery is perfused only in ventricular diastole. Perfusion of the right coronary artery occurs more frequently in diastole and less frequently in ventricular systole.
A Survey of Asian Family Business Research*
Authors: Bennedsen Morten , Lu Yi‐Chun , Mehrotra Vikas
Published: February 2022

We survey the literature on family firms with a focus on Asian countries. We begin with identifying three key motivational drivers of international research on family business—their dominance, relative performance, and extent of family embeddedness in the business. Second, we provide a brief survey of family firms in eight Asian economies with a focus on the history and current challenges faced by family firms in each country. Third, we document the variety of family firm definitions used in the literature and the resulting difficulty in drawing inferences due to a lack of definitional consistency. Fourth, we discuss the strategic advantages family assets such as legacy and networks bring to family firms in the Asian context. Fifth, we identify some unique challenges family firms face in their countries, and provide examples of how ownership and succession structures mitigate these challenges. We close this survey by suggesting some open research questions relevant for Asian family firms.
Effect of pre‐operative oral paracetamol on gastric residual volume andpHin young children in the context of a 1‐hour clear fluid fast: a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Saffer E. , Nielsen D. P. D. , Warwick E. , Stilwell A. , Webb C. , Chow G. , Place M.‐K.
Published: February 2022

High gastric residual volume and low pH are associated with increased mortality following pulmonary aspiration in animal studies. The use of pre‐operative oral paracetamol has not been investigated in younger children and infants in the context of a prescriptive 1‐h clear fluid fast aimed at reducing the risk of pulmonary aspiration while improving patient experience. Children aged 1 month up to a weight of 25 kg and scheduled for elective surgery were randomly allocated to receive a prescribed 3.6 ml.kg‐1drink of water alone (water group) or 3 ml.kg‐1water and oral Infant Calpol® syrup (24 mg.ml‐1concentration, equivalent volume 0.6 ml.kg‐1, paracetamol group) 1 h before the induction of anaesthesia. Following induction, a nasogastric tube was used to aspirate gastric contents and the volume and pH were recorded. Ninety‐seven children, median (IQR [range]) age 24 (12–45 [1–96]) months and weight 12.4 (9.7–16.0 [2.9–27.0]) kg, were analysed. Median time from drink to induction was 54 (45–60 [21–113]) min. There was no significant difference in gastric residual volume (p = 1) or pH (p = 0.99) between the water and the paracetamol groups. Sub‐group analysis revealed no significant difference in gastric residual volume or pH for 29 children who weighed < 10 kg compared with > 10 kg. Using a prescriptive fluid regime of 3 ml.kg‐1of water, the addition of oral paracetamol syrup did not significantly alter gastric residual volume or pH in the context of a 1‐h fast in infants and young children.
Assessment of machine perfusion conditions for the donation after circulatory death heart preservation
Authors: Cholyway Renee , Akande Oluwatoyin , Mauro Adolfo Gabriele , Mezzaroma Eleonora , Wang Rui , Kenning Kristine , Toldo Stefano , Quader Mohammed
Published: February 2022

Background

Donation after circulatory death (DCD) hearts requires machine perfusion preservation, the conditions of which are not well defined.

Methods

To achieve this, rat hearts were procured following a DCD or control beating‐heart donation (CBD) model, and perfused for 60 min with one of three machine perfusion solutions—St. Thomas (ST), University of Wisconsin (UW), or Polyethylene Glycol‐20k (PEG)—at one of two temperatures, 4°C or 15°C. At 15‐min intervals, perfusion pressure was measured as a marker of vascular resistance. Colored microspheres were added to capture the distribution of perfusate into the metabolically active sub‐endocardium, and the eluate was collected for troponin assays. Analyses compared groups using Wilcoxon rank‐sum and ANOVA.

Results

Perfusion pressure was significantly higher for DCD than CBD hearts at 15°C regardless of solutions. The lowest rise in perfusion pressure over time was observed with PEG at 15°C. Except for PEG at 15°C, ST and UW solutions at 4 or 15°C had decreased sub‐endocardial perfusion in DCD hearts. Troponin release from DCD hearts with UW and PEG solutions was comparable to CBD hearts but was significantly higher with ST solution at 15°C.

Conclusions

Optimal preservation conditions for DCD hearts were observed with PEG machine perfusion solution at 15°C.
Association of sickle cell trait with β‐cell dysfunction and physical activity in adults living with and without HIV in Tanzania
Authors: Kweka Belinda V. , Fredrick Cyprian , Kitilya Brenda , Jeremiah Kidola , Lyimo Eric , Filteau Suzanne , Rehman Andrea M. , Friis Henrik , Olsen Mette F. , Faurholt‐Jepsen Daniel , Krogh‐Madsen Rikke , PrayGod George
Published: February 2022

This study aimed to investigate sickle cell trait (SCT) associations with physical activity, markers of insulin secretion and resistance, and glucose among people living with HIV infection (PLWH), both antiretroviral therapy (ART) naive and experienced, and HIV‐uninfected adults. This was a cross‐sectional study conducted in Mwanza, Northwestern Tanzania. We used data of 668 participants attained from two sub‐studies of CICADA study. Mean age was 40 (SD 11.5) years, 402 (61.7%) were females and 157 (24.1%) had SCT. PLWH were 422 (64.7%), of these, 80 (18.9%) were on ART. People with SCT had higher risk of having an isolated β‐cell dysfunction compared to those without SCT (RRR = 1.82, CI: 1.10, 3.01, p = 0.02). People with SCT but without HIV infection had lower average acceleration on the trunk longitudinal axis (ACCx) and higher level of self‐reported physical activity. 30 min oral glucose tolerance test among PLWH on ART was higher in those with SCT compared to those without SCT. People with SCT are at higher risk of having β‐cell dysfunction and those with SCT on ART are at more risk of developing diabetes. Future studies to investigate the interaction between SCT and HIV/ART on risk of diabetes should be considered.
Resolution of dominant patient‐reported outcome at end of induction predicts clinical and endoscopic remission in Crohn’s disease
Authors: Wong Emily C.L. , Dulai Parambir S. , Marshall John K. , Jairath Vipul , Reinisch Walter , Narula Neeraj
Published: February 2022

Background

It is unclear whether improvement in patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) relative to baseline symptom burden in Crohn’s disease (CD) is associated with subsequent endoscopic remission.

Aim

To evaluate the relationship between dominant PRO resolution post‐induction and achievement of clinical and endoscopic remission.

Methods

This post‐hoc analysis of clinical trial data from 251 participants evaluated the relationship between the resolution of the dominant PRO (most severely elevated baseline PRO) or clinical response (CDAI ≥100 reduction) after induction therapy with biologics (post‐induction) and 1‐year clinical remission (CDAI <150) and/or endoscopic remission (SES‐CD <3). Multivariate logistic regression models evaluated the relationship between post‐induction‐dominant PRO resolution and 1‐year outcomes adjusted for confounders.

Results

Participants with dominant PRO resolution post‐induction had higher odds of combined endoscopic and clinical remission compared to those without resolution (aOR: 1.94 [95% CI: 1.01–3.74], P = 0.047). Combining dominant PRO resolution with post‐induction endoscopic response (SES‐CD ≥50% reduction) was associated with higher odds of 1‐year endoscopic and clinical remission (aOR: 6.89 [95% CI: 1.65–28.72], P = 0.008). Clinical and PRO2 response (≥30% decrease in stool frequency and/or ≥30% decrease in abdominal pain score and both not worse than baseline) at post‐induction did not predict these outcomes. No significant differences were observed with 1‐year endoscopic remission for post‐induction‐dominant PRO resolution, clinical or PRO2 response.

Conclusions

Post‐induction resolution of dominant PRO, but not clinical or PRO2 response, was strongly associated with 1‐year endoscopic and clinical remission. Resolution of dominant baseline PRO after induction therapy may be informative for 1‐year outcomes. Further validation is required.
Student engagement in online learning in Latin American higher education during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A systematic review
Authors: Salas‐Pilco Sdenka Zobeida , Yang Yuqin , Zhang Zhe
Published: February 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic has forced higher education institutions to implement online learning activities based on virtual platforms, allowing little time to prepare and train faculty members to familiarize students with digital technologies. While previous studies have looked at how students engaged with digital technologies in their learning activities, the characteristics of the student engagement in online learning remain underexplored. Therefore, a systematic review of the literature on student engagement in online learning in higher education is much needed. This article synthesizes the findings on student engagement in Latin American higher education institutions during the COVID‐19 pandemic. After reviewing the studies on online learning activities, this review examines student engagement from behavioural, cognitive and affective dimensions and identifies the main characteristics of student engagement from these tripartite dimensions. The implications of the findings for online learning in Latin American higher education are as follows: (a) to transform higher education, (b) to provide adequate professional training, (c) to improve Internet connectivity, (d) to ensure quality online learning in higher education and (e) to provide emotional support. These findings will provide valuable guidance for teachers, educational authorities and policy makers and help them make informed decisions to use effective strategies to support online learning in higher education institutions.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

The COVID‐19 pandemic has disrupted the normal operation of higher education institutions across Latin America, impelling a shift from face‐to‐face instruction to online teaching and learning.

Research on online learning in Latin American higher education has been conducted, but the findings and their implications are yet to be widely disseminated among researchers, practitioners and decision‐makers.

What this paper adds

Providing a systematic review of research on student engagement in online learning in Latin American higher education institutions.

Analyzing the construct of student engagement in online learning from tripartite dimensions—behavioral, cognitive and affective—in the Latin American higher education context.

Identifying the characteristics associated to each dimension of student engagement in online learning.

Implications for practice and/or policy

The need to transform the higher education system in Latin America and beyond, at two levels: to improve Internet connectivity at the technological level and to ensure the quality of online education at the pedagogical level.

The urgency to offer an adequate professional training regarding the use of new technologies in online learning environments.

The significance for higher education institutions to provide emotional support for students during the COVID‐10 pandemic.
Strongly fused individuals feel viscerally responsible to self‐sacrifice
Authors: Chinchilla Juana , Vázquez Alexandra , Gómez Ángel
Published: February 2022

Identity fusion is a visceral feeling of oneness that predicts extreme behaviour on behalf of the target of fusion. We propose that strongly fused individuals are characterized by feelings of visceral responsibility towards such target – unconditional, instinctive, and impulsive drive to care, protect and promote its well‐being and interests – that motivates them to self‐sacrifice. Two studies offered initial support when the target of fusion is an individual or a group (Studies 1a‐1b). A final study added causal evidence that strongly fused learning that most ingroup members did not feel visceral responsibility towards the group expressed less willingness to self‐sacrifice than those learning that ingroup members display high levels of visceral responsibility (Study 2). These findings offer novel evidence for the mechanisms underlying the effects of fusion on extreme behaviour on behalf of the target of fusion and the attenuation of its consequences.
Celebrating 20 years of the UK Dermatology Clinical Trials Network. Part 1: Developing and delivering high-quality independent clinical trials
Authors: Williams Hywel C. , McPhee Margaret J. , Layfield Carron P. ,   on behalf of the UK Dermatology Clinical Trials Network, Jones Stephen , Layfield Carron , Matin Rubeta , Levell Nick , Cowdell Fiona , Burton Tim , Adams Louisa May , Frankel Jez , Thomas Kim , Perera Gayathri , Sommerlad Mary , Charman Carolyn , Worboys Sarah , Young Helen , Belmo Sharon , Sach Tracey , Bradshaw Lucy , Abbott Rachel , Macbeth Abby , Shipley Debbie , Makrygeorgou Areti , McPherson Tess , DeGiovanni Claudia , Davies Evelyn , Llewellyn Rhiannon , Westmoreland Melanie , Pathak Anjali , Wainman Hannah , MacNeil Christina , Barlow Richard , Brito Marianne , Frewen John , Lalonde Anna , Sudhakaran Simi , Earp Eleanor , Steele Lloyd , Hodder Andy , Lowe Alison , Layton Alison , Lloyd-Lavery Antonia , Walton Shernaz , Sears Alison , Burden-Teh Esther , Durack Alana , Wernham Aaron , Thomson Jason , Marrouche Nadine , Ahmed Alia , Simpson Rosalind
Published: February 2022

The UK Dermatology Clinical Trials Network (UK DCTN) was formed in 2002 with the aim of developing and supporting high-quality independent national clinical trials that address prioritized research questions for people with skin disease. Its philosophy is to democratize UK dermatological clinical research and to tackle important clinical questions that industry has no incentive to answer. The network also plays a key role in training and capacity development. Its membership of over 1000 individuals includes dermatology consultants, trainees, dermatology nurses, general practitioners, methodologists and patients. Its organizational structures are lean and include a co-ordinating team based at the Centre of Evidence-Based Dermatology in Nottingham, and an executive with independent members to ensure probity and business progression. A prioritization panel and steering group enable a pipeline of projects to be prioritized and refined for external funding from independent sources. The UK DCTN has supported and completed 12 national clinical trials, attracting investment of over £15 million into UK clinical dermatology research. Trials have covered a range of interventions from drugs such as doxycycline (BLISTER), silk clothing for eczema (CLOTHES) and surgical interventions for hidradenitis suppurativa (THESEUS). Trial results are published in prestigious journals and have global impact. Genuine partnership with patients and carers has been a strong feature of the network since its inception. The UK DCTN is proud of its first 20 years of collaborative work, and aims to remain at the forefront of independent dermatological health technology assessment, as well as expanding into areas including diagnostics, artificial intelligence, efficient studies and innovative designs.
Horizontal guided bone regeneration on knife‐edge ridges: A retrospective case–control pilot study comparing two surgical techniques
Authors: Arnal Helene M. , Angioni Charles D. , Gaultier Frederick , Urbinelli Renaud , Urban Istvan A.
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Studies evaluating guided bone regeneration (GBR) on knife‐edge ridges using absorbable membranes with staged approaches have reported various horizontal bone gains. This study compared the horizontal bone gain obtained via a conventional technique of GBR and a recently‐reported technique. Bone loss during the healing process was also measured.

Methods

Consecutive patients who underwent GBR on knife‐edge ridges via a conventional technique (control group) or the Sausage Technique (test group) were included in this study. GBR was performed using a collagen membrane and deproteinized bovine bone mineral combined with an autogenous graft at a 1:1 ratio. Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) was performed preoperatively, postoperatively, and after the patient healed. Horizontal bone width was measured on CBCT images 2 mm apical from the top of the crest. The preoperative CBCT and posthealing CBCT were superimposed to calculate the bone gain after healing, and the preoperative and postoperative CBCT scans were superimposed to calculate the bone gain after surgery. Bone loss during healing was calculated by subtracting the width of the ridge after healing from the postoperative width.

Results

The mean horizontal bone gain was significantly lower in the control group (2.7 ± 1.8 mm; 83.2%) than in the test group (5.3 ± 2.3 mm; 216.8%) (p = 0.003). The average horizontal bone loss between regeneration and implant placement was 0.9 mm in the control group (27.9%) and 2.1 mm in the test group (29.4%). While the absolute bone loss was significantly different (p = 0.012), the percentage of bone resorption was not (p = 0.608).

Conclusion

The new technique resulted in significantly more bone gain than a conventional GBR technique. The rate of graft resorption during healing was stable regardless of the amount of grafted material.
Regulation of the immune response to contact sensitizers by Nrf2
Authors: Vallion Romain , Kerdine‐Römer Saadia
Published: February 2022

The skin is frequently exposed to chemical stress by organic chemicals or metal ions that can directly or indirectly challenge its immune components and may lead to T‐cell‐mediated delayed‐type hypersensitivity reactions. The disruption of the skin's homeostasis by exposure to contact sensitizers (CSs) can trigger an inflammatory immune response that results in eczema and allergic contact dermatitis. The recognition of these chemicals depends on the expression of pattern recognition receptors on sentinel skin cells, mainly the innate resident immune cells orchestrating the skin's immune response and involving both oxidative and inflammatory pathways. The main driver of these both pathways is the Nrf2/Keap1 pathway, a major ubiquitous regulator of cellular oxidative and electrophilic stress, activated in various innate immune cells of the skin, including keratinocytes and epidermal Langerhans cells in the epidermis and dermal dendritic cells in the dermis. Nrf2 also shows a strong protective capacity by downregulating inflammatory pathways. In this review, the important role of Nrf2 in the regulation of the immune response to CSs will be discussed and highlighted.
Assessing the accuracy of distance‐ and interview‐based measures of hunting pressure
Authors: Griffiths Brian M. , Kolowski Joseph , Bowler Mark , Gilmore Michael P. , Benson Elizabeth , Lewis Forrest , Stabach Jared
Published: February 2022

In the Amazon Rainforest, the sustainability of hunting is difficult to model. Accurate sustainability models for hunting of mammal populations require a spatially explicit measure of hunting pressure. Because field‐based measures of hunting pressure are time and labor‐intensive, distance‐based proxies for hunting pressure are frequently used. In this study, we tested accuracy of distance‐based parameters in predicting measured hunting pressure obtained through interviews for a riverine community in the Peruvian Amazon. We examined the spatial accuracy of the interviews and investigated the minimum requirements for spatial assessment of hunting pressure based on interviews. Results illustrate that hunter‐reported animal kill locations were accurate to within a mean of 1 km. Interview effort results showed that approximately 4 months of interviews capturing at least 50% of hunts are necessary to obtain a complete measure of hunting pressure across the landscape. Generalized linear models identified a novel spatially explicit approach that explained 59% of the deviance in measured hunting pressure. Our model was based on distances from locations that are easily obtained through remotely sensed imagery, participatory mapping, and terrain characteristics, highlighting that biologically relevant and spatially explicit estimates of hunting pressure can be obtained without lengthy field‐based methods. Hunting pressure across a landscape can be accurately predicted from remote sensing, participatory mapping, and terrain characteristics.
Endoscopic delivery: A solution for capsule endoscopy in patients with swallowing disorders, difficulties, or impaired gastrointestinal motility
Authors: Esaki Motohiro
Published: February 2022

This Editorial refers to the article by N. Ohmiya et al., p 543‐552 of this issue.
Accelerated rate of progression of bioprosthetic aortic stenosis in patients with renal disease
Authors: Penmetsa Megha , Joseph Joel , Pu Min , Richardson Karl
Published: February 2022

Background

Renal disease can lead to more rapid progression of aortic stenosis. However, there are limited case report data investigating the impact of renal disease on the rate of prosthetic aortic valve stenosis. We sought to quantify the rate of progression of bioprosthetic aortic stenosis in patients with renal disease.

Methods

Patients with bioprosthetic aortic valves and at least two transthoracic echocardiograms six or more months apart were included. Echocardiographic data from patients with end‐stage renal disease (ESRD), chronic kidney disease (CKD) stages 3–4, and normal renal function were compared using ANOVA and Kruskal‐Wallis tests.

Results

One hundred fifteen patients (43 ESRD, 52 CKD, and 20 controls) were included in this study. Changes in dimensionless index (DI) (units/year) for patients with normal renal function, CKD, and ESRD were .025 ± .13, −.040 ± .08, −.10 ± .13, respectively, leading to calculated changes in aortic valve area (AVA) (cm2/year) of .04 ± .28, −.13 ± .29, −.42 ± .72, respectively. Change in peak gradient (m/sec/year) was significantly lower for patients with normal renal function compared to ESRD; −.077 ± 5.98 versus 7.18 ± 17.9. In the ESRD group, a nonsignificant trend toward greater change in DI/year was seen in TAVR compared to SAVR: −.14 ± .16 versus −.08 ± .11.

Conclusion

Our results confirm limited available data reporting an accelerated rate of bioprosthetic stenosis in patients with CKD and ESRD. These data not only quantify this progression but may also inform clinical decision‐making and valve selection in patients with renal disease.
Strong impact of temperature and resource specialisation on patterns of voltinism within an oak‐associated insect community
Authors: Gaytán Álvaro , Gotthard Karl , Tack Ayco J. M.
Published: February 2022

Insect phenology consists of the timing of life events, as well as the number of generations (voltinism). While several studies have focused on the impact of climate on the timing of seasonal events, or the voltinism of single species, we have few insights into the factors that shape patterns of voltinism within ecological communities. Importantly, voltinism can have a major impact on population growth, species interactions, and rate of evolution.

We investigated the relative importance of spatial variation in temperature and species traits in shaping patterns of voltinism within an herbivore community feeding on deciduous oaks across a temperature gradient in Europe.

Voltinism increased with temperature, where the probability for a species to be univoltine decreased with temperature, whereas the probability for a species to be strictly multivoltine increased with temperature. The relative abundance of the first and subsequent generations of multivoltine species did not significantly change along the temperature gradient. Resource specialisation affected voltinism, where oligophagous and polyphagous species were more likely to be strictly multivoltine than narrow oligophagous species. Overwintering stage and body size did not affect voltinism, and there was no evidence that species traits influenced the relationship between temperature and voltinism.

Our findings highlight that temperature and species traits shape variation in voltinism within an herbivore community associated with oak trees. These temperature‐induced shifts in voltinism within the oak‐associated herbivore community may have profound effects on the synchrony within and between trophic levels, and consequently for food web structure and outbreak dynamics.
Amygdala and subregion volumes are associated with photoperiod and seasonal depressive symptoms: A cross‐sectional study in the UK Biobank cohort
Authors: Majrashi Naif A. , Alyami Ali S. , Shubayr Nasser A. , Alenezi Meshaal M. , Waiter Gordon D.
Published: February 2022

Although seasonal changes in amygdala volume have been demonstrated in animals, seasonal differences in human amygdala subregion volumes have yet to be investigated. Amygdala volume has also been linked to depressed mood. Therefore, we hypothesised that differences in photoperiod would predict differences in amygdala or subregion volumes and that this association would be linked to depressed mood. 10,033 participants ranging in age from 45 to 79 years were scanned by MRI in a single location. Amygdala subregion volumes were obtained using automated processing and segmentation algorithms. A mediation analysis tested whether amygdala volume mediated the relationship between photoperiod and mood. Photoperiod was positively associated with total amygdala volume (p < .001). Multivariate (GLM) analyses revealed significant effects of photoperiod across all amygdala subregion volumes for both hemispheres (p < .001). Post hoc univariate regression analyses revealed significant associations of photoperiod with each amygdala subregion volume (p < .001). PLS showed the highest loadings of amygdala subregions in lateral nucleus, ABN, basal nucleus, CAT, PLN, AAA, central nucleus, cortical nucleus and medial nucleus for left hemisphere and ABN, lateral nucleus, CAT, PLN, cortical nucleus, AAA, central nucleus and medial nucleus for right hemisphere. There were no significant associations between photoperiod and mood nor between mood scores and amygdala volumes, and due to the lack of these associations, the mediation hypothesis was not supported. This study is the first to demonstrate an association between photoperiod and amygdala volume. These findings add to the evidence supporting the role of photoperiod on brain structural plasticity.
Bacillus Calmette–Guerin vaccination and multiple sclerosis: A population‐based birth cohort study in Quebec, Canada
Authors: Corsenac Philippe , Parent Marie‐Élise , Wolfson Christina , Arbour Nathalie , Duquette Pierre , Benedetti Andrea , Richard Hugues , Stäger Simona , Rousseau Marie‐Claude
Published: February 2022

Background and purpose

The bacillus Calmette–Guerin (BCG) vaccine could reduce the incidence of multiple sclerosis (MS) through immunomodulation. Previous studies, presenting some limitations, reported no association. We re‐examined this association in a large cohort focusing on relapsing–remitting MS (RRMS).

Methods

The cohort included 400,563 individuals, and was linked with the Quebec provincial BCG vaccination registry and administrative health data. Individuals were followed up from 1983 to 2014 and then within Period 1 (1983–1996) and Period 2 (1997–2014), for the occurrence of MS. Incident MS cases were defined as those with ≥3 hospital or physician claims for MS. Subjects with ≥1 drug reimbursement for MS disease‐modifying therapies were classified as RRMS. Cox proportional hazards regression was used to estimate hazard ratios (HRs) over the follow‐ups, adjusting for potential confounders. Possible effect modification due to sex was assessed.

Results

A total of 178,335 (46%) individuals were BCG vaccinated. There were 274 (0.06%) incident MS cases identified in 1983–1996, and 1433 (0.4%) in 1997–2014. No association was found with RRMS, either in Period 1 (adjusted HR [HRadj] = 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.63–1.45; 96 cases) or in Period 2 (HRadj = 1.02, 95% CI = 0.85–1.23; 480 cases). The remaining MS cases, for whom the phenotype was unknown, were positively associated with BCG over the entire follow‐up (HRadj = 1.25, 95% CI = 1.10–1.41; 1131 cases) and in Period 2 (HRadj = 1.33, 95% CI = 1.17–1.52; 953 cases). No interaction with sex was found.

Conclusions

Findings suggest that BCG vaccination does not decrease the risk of RRMS, and that future studies should consider phenotypes of MS.
Utility of 18F‐fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography in presurgical evaluation of patients with epilepsy: A multicenter study
Authors: Steinbrenner Mirja , Duncan John S. , Dickson John , Rathore Chaturbhuj , Wächter Bettina , Aygun Nafi , Menon Ramshekhar N. , Radhakrishnan Ashalatha , Holtkamp Martin , Ilyas‐Feldmann Maria
Published: February 2022

Objective

18F‐Fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (FDG‐PET) is widely used in presurgical assessment in patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy (DRE) if magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and scalp electroencephalography (EEG) do not localize the seizure onset zone or are discordant.

Methods

In this multicenter, retrospective observational cohort study, we included consecutive patients with DRE who had undergone FDG‐PET as part of their presurgical workup. We assessed the utility of FDG‐PET, which was defined as contributing to the decision‐making process to refer for resection or intracranial EEG (iEEG) or to conclude surgery was not feasible.

Results

We included 951 patients in this study; 479 had temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE), 219 extratemporal epilepsy (ETLE), and 253 epilepsy of uncertain lobar origin. FDG‐PET showed a distinct hypometabolism in 62% and was concordant with ictal EEG in 74% in TLE and in 56% in ETLE (p < .001). FDG‐PET was useful in presurgical decision‐making in 396 patients (47%) and most beneficial in TLE compared to ETLE (58% vs. 44%, p = .001). Overall, FDG‐PET contributed to recommending resection in 78 cases (20%) and iEEG in 187 cases (47%); in 131 patients (33%), FDG‐PET resulted in a conclusion that resection was not feasible. In TLE, seizure‐freedom 1 year after surgery did not differ significantly (p = .48) between patients with negative MRI and EEG‐PET concordance (n = 30, 65%) and those with positive MRI and concordant EEG (n = 46, 68%). In ETLE, half of patients with negative MRI and EEG‐PET concordance and three quarters with positive MRI and concordant EEG were seizure‐free postsurgery (n = 5 vs. n = 6, p = .28).

Significance

This is the largest reported cohort of patients with DRE who received presurgical FDG‐PET, showing that FDG‐PET is a useful diagnostic tool. MRI‐negative and MRI‐positive cases with concordant FDG‐PET results (with either EEG or MRI) had a comparable outcome after surgery. These findings confirm the significance of FDG‐PET in presurgical epilepsy diagnostics.
Genetic diversity and structure of diploid Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) cultivars and breeding materials in Japan based on genome‐wide allele frequency
Authors: Tamura Ken‐ichi , Arakawa Akira , Kiyoshi Takako , Yonemaru Jun‐ichi
Published: February 2022

To reveal the genetic diversity and structure of cultivars and breeding materials of diploid Italian ryegrass (Lolium multiflorum Lam.) in Japan, using genome‐wide allele frequency data obtained by genotyping by random amplicon sequencing, direct of pooled DNA, we investigated genetic diversity among and within 89 accessions. We selected 2629 reliable alleles at 456 polymorphic loci to evaluate allele frequency in each accession. Results of hierarchical cluster analysis based on Nei's standard genetic distance and of principal component analysis and nonhierarchical cluster analysis based on the complete set of allele frequencies classified the accessions into a large group including major Japanese cultivars and their ancestral landraces with a wide range of maturity, and a small group with mainly medium maturity, including ‘Gulf’, introduced from overseas. The genetic relationships fully reflected the kinship inferred from the breeding history in Japan. Mean expected heterozygosity (HE) and number of alleles per locus (A) were evaluated as indices of genetic diversity within each accession. We found a significant negative correlation between the year of application for varietal registration and HE or A in 14 early‐maturing Japanese cultivars. The genetic diversity profile can be used for breeding to maintain or increase the diversity within cultivars or breeding materials.
UK guideline for the use of HIV post‐exposure prophylaxis 2021
Authors: Cresswell Fiona , Asanati Kaveh , Bhagani Sanjay , Boffito Marta , Delpech Valerie , Ellis Jayne , Fox Julie , Furness Linda , Kingston Margaret , Mansouri Massoud , Samarawickrama Amanda , Smithson Kat , Sparrowhawk Alex , Rafferty Paul , Roper Tom , Waters Laura , Rodger Alison , Gupta Nadi
Published: February 2022

We present the updated British Association for Sexual Health and HIV (BASHH) guidelines for post‐exposure prophylaxis (PEP) to HIV following sexual exposures, occupational exposures and other nonoccupational exposures in the community. This serves as an update to the 2015 BASHH guideline on PEP following sexual exposures and the 2008 Expert Advisory Group on AIDS guidelines on HIV PEP. We aim to provide evidence‐based guidance on best clinical practice in the provision, monitoring and support of PEP for the prevention of HIV acquisition following sexual, occupational and other nonoccupational exposures in the community. The guideline covers when to prescribe PEP, what antiretroviral agents to use and how to manage PEP. This includes (i) evidence of PEP efficacy; (ii) evidence relating to individual‐level efficacy of antiretroviral therapy to prevent the sexual transmission of HIV; (iii) data on the detectable (transmissible) prevalence of HIV in specific populations; (iv) risk of HIV transmission following different types of sexual and occupational exposure; (v) baseline risk assessment; (vi) drug regimens and dosing schedules; (vii) monitoring PEP; (viii) baseline and follow‐up blood‐borne virus testing; (ix) the role of PEP within broader HIV prevention strategies, for example, HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP). The guideline also covers special scenarios such as PEP in pregnancy, breastfeeding and chronic hepatitis B virus infection, and when PEP should be considered in people using HIV PrEP. The guidelines are aimed at clinical professionals directly involved in PEP provision and other stakeholders in the field. A proforma to assist PEP consultations is included. A public consultation process was undertaken prior to finalizing the recommendations.
Mechanisms and applications of milk‐derived bioactive peptides in Food for Special Medical Purposes
Authors: Wang Linlin , Shao Xiaoqing , Cheng Ming , Fan Xiaoxue , Wang Cunfang , Jiang Hua , Zhang Xiaoning
Published: February 2022

Milk protein is a high‐quality protein in human diet and a crucial source of bioactive peptides (BAPs) due to its unique nutritional and biological functions. Milk‐derived BAP has been proven to be able to regulate the cardiovascular, immune, digestive and nervous systems. Recently, milk‐derived BAP has a lot of attention in the area of food and biomedicine, especially Food for Special Medical Purposes (FSMPs), a novel solution to nutrition management for patients. In this article of review, the mechanisms of milk‐derived BAP in nutrition management are described, including mechanisms for antithrombosis, antihypertension, antibacteria, regulation of the immune system, inhibition of fat synthesis, promotion of trace element absorption, regulation of intestinal microecological environment and analgesia. Applications of milk‐derived BAP in FSMP are also summarised, with the view of providing a theoretical reference for the field of FSMP on precise nutritional support.
Influence of wheatgrass and mung bean microgreens incorporation on physicochemical, textural, sensory, antioxidant properties and phenolic profile of gluten‐free eggless rice muffins
Authors: Kaur Nancydeep , Singh Balwinder , Kaur Amritpal
Published: February 2022

In this study, gluten‐free eggless muffins were prepared by incorporating wheatgrass (WP) and mung bean microgreens (MP) powder in rice flour at 2%, 4% and 6% levels. The batter rheology was evaluated and muffins studied for changes in physicochemical, textural, antioxidant, sensory properties and phenolic composition. The batter viscoelasticity, firmness, gumminess and chewiness increased, while height and specific volume (SV) of muffins declined by increasing the level of WP and MP incorporation. WP and MP incorporated muffins exhibited higher protein content, dietary fibre, phenolics, flavonoids and antioxidant properties. WP incorporated muffins were rich in total free and bound phenolic acids, while MP incorporated muffins had more total free and bound flavonoids. The 6%MP incorporated muffins were rated lower by sensory panellists, while 2%WP incorporated muffins were acceptable with better nutritional profile, similar cohesiveness, springiness and SV to that of rice alone muffins.
Value of cerebrospinal fluid white cell count and protein level in predicting leptomeningeal involvement by systemic aggressive B‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Bennett Rory , Ruskova Anna , Petrasich Michelle , Theakston Edward
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Diagnostic cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) analysis for patients with newly diagnosed aggressive B‐cell lymphoma at risk of secondary central nervous system involvement typically includes multiparametric flow cytometry (MFC), cytology (CC), white cell count (WCC) and total protein. The strength of relationships between MFC results and the remaining variables has been disputed in small studies. We explored these relationships in a large homogeneous cohort of patient samples, aiming to establish the relationship between WCC and protein level and MFC results.

Methods

Adult patients with aggressive B‐cell lymphoma at risk of CNS involvement who underwent staging CSF analysis by MFC were identified retrospectively from institutional electronic records between October 2011 and December 2020.

Results

Three hundred and seventy eight samples, including 45 (11.9%) MFC+ samples, were analysed. The relative sensitivity of CC for MFC positivity was 0.38, with PPV of 0.68. Significantly higher median WCC (p < .001) and protein levels (p = .011) were seen in MFC+ vs. MFC− samples. MFC + CC+ (vs. MFC + CC− samples) demonstrated higher median neoplastic events and neoplastic cell concentration. WCC ≥36 × 106/L and protein ≥1.12 g/L cut‐off values demonstrated the highest PPVs for MFC positivity (0.67 and 0.88, respectively).

Conclusions

Statistically significant associations exist between elevated WCC and protein and MFC positivity, and selected WCC and protein cut‐off values have PPVs comparable to that of cytological assessment. Whilst routine WCC and protein analysis may be unnecessary, WCC/protein values above these levels could be regarded as reasonable evidence of CSF involvement in the appropriate setting.
Hydrothermal fabrication of p‐Cu2O−n‐ZnO films and their properties for photodegradation and ultraviolet sensors
Authors: Li Yu‐Xian , Chang Kao‐Shuo
Published: February 2022

This article reports spin coating and hydrothermal approaches to the synthesis of Cu2O seed layer−ZnO and Cu2O film−ZnO heterojunction films on fluorine‐doped tin oxide substrates. Cu2O seed layers and an ethylene glycol (EG) reducing agent were employed to obtain pure, uniform, and adhesive Cu2O films on the substrate. Transmission electron microscopy validated the heterojunctions with clear interfaces between each component on the p‐Cu2O film−n‐ZnO (with EG) sample, the conductive types of which were determined through Mott−Schottky measurements. Constructed energy band diagrams supported the Mott−Schottky result, manifesting favorable conduction band positions for the generation of •O2− radicals for all constituent materials and indicating smooth charge carrier transport for the p‐Cu2O film−n‐ZnO (with EG) sample. Furthermore, abundant p−n junction interfaces synergistically enabled the sample to exhibit the most satisfactory photodegradation capability (rate constant ≈ 8.9 × 10−3 min−1), which was attributable to the predominance of •OH radicals. The sample's rectifying (diode) behavior with a ratio of the current density (J) at +3 V (forward bias) to that at −3 V (reverse bias) of approximately 27 was observed without ultraviolet illumination. Moreover, the J at −3 V is under illumination approximately 80 times that without illumination, implying the suitability of the sample for UV detectability.
Electronic properties and stability of M2O3 (M = Al, Ga, In) and alloy (MxGa1‐x)2O3 in α and β phases: A theoretical study
Authors: Jia Xubo , Jin Wentao , Han Han , Yu Jinying , Wu Yelong
Published: February 2022

Ga2O3 is clearly emerging as an important wide band‐gap semiconductor. Band‐gap engineering is now highly demanded for expanding its applications. Alloying with the same group of metal oxides is a straightforward and effective way. In this work, by using hybrid density functional theory calculations, the structural, electronic properties, and phase stability of group IIIA (Al, Ga, In) metal oxides and their ternary alloys (MxGa1‐x)2O3 (M = Al, In) in the corundum and monoclinic phases are systematically investigated. The lattice constants, elastic constants, modulus, formation energies, band‐gaps, band‐gap deformation potentials, band‐edge alignments, band‐gap bowing, and ternary alloy formation energies are obtained. The basic relations between the geometric structure and electronic properties are discussed. It is found that the cation ordered structure is the most stable alloy structure in the monoclinic phase, rather than the random alloy structure as is commonly thought. A phase stability diagram of the (MxGa1‐x)2O3 alloys is established, showing that the stable phase of the alloy changes from the monoclinic phase to the corundum phase when the incorporation of Al2O3 (In2O3) is greater than 69% (76%). These results can be used to understand the relative experimental data and shed some light on the synthesis and device design efforts of Ga2O3.
The Mere Substitution Defence of Nudging Works for Neurointerventions Too
Authors: Douglas Thomas
Published: February 2022

Nudges are often defended on the basis that they merely substitute existing influences on choice with other influences that are similar in kind; they introduce no new kind of influence into the choice situation. I motivate the view that, if this defence succeeds in establishing the moral innocuousness of typical nudges, it also establishes the moral innocuousness of an intuitively wrongful neurochemical intervention. I then consider two attempts to rebut this view and argue that both fail. I end by spelling out four stances that the proponent of the defence might adopt in response to my argument.
Motivated Reasoning and Research Ethics Guidelines
Authors: Specker Sullivan Laura
Published: February 2022

The creation of guidelines has long been a popular means of conveying normative requirements in scientific and medical research. The recent case of He Jiankui, whose research flouted both widely accepted ethical standards and a set of field‐specific guidelines he co‐authored, raises the question of whether guidelines are an effective means of preventing misconduct. This article advances the theory that guidelines can facilitate moral rationalization, a form of motivated reasoning. Moral rationalization in research occurs when individuals justify their actions with plausible reasons that cohere with their moral standards. This allows them to act as they want while believing in their own goodness. If guidelines facilitate moral rationalization, this has implications for research ethics training and for the work of applied ethicists. Research ethics training ought to incorporate reflection on conative features of reasoning, including incentives to commit misconduct, and applied ethicists ought to be circumspect about their use of ethics guidelines. Otherwise, they are feeding the fire of rationalization with the cognitive material practitioners need to accomplish their desired ends.