bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Are natural resources an impetus for economic growth in Africa?
Authors: Nzié Jules René Minkoua , Pepeah Ateh Thomson
Published: March 2022

This study examines the effects of natural resource endowments on economic growth in Africa based on a sample of 37 African countries from 1996 to 2019. The sample is split into resource‐rich and resource‐poor countries. By employing the autoregressive distributed lag model with a linear interaction between natural resource revenue and institutional quality, a contingent effect of natural resource revenue on economic growth is established, both in the long and short run. Contrary to previous related studies, this study reveals that the resource status of the countries concerned has a significant impact on the nature of the results obtained. Specifically, in resource‐rich countries, weak institutions have been found to exacerbate the negative relation between natural resources and economic growth in the long run, whereas in the short run, these variables are found to be complementary toward enhancing economic growth. Meanwhile, in resource‐poor countries, institutional quality and natural resource revenues individually compete with each other in relation to growth, but when interacted, their combined effect positively and significantly improves economic growth in the long run.
Food‐induced methemoglobinemia: A systematic review
Authors: McNulty Richard , Kuchi Nikhil , Xu Elena , Gunja Naren
Published: March 2022

Methemoglobinemia is a sporadic, potentially fatal disease of poor tissue oxygenation in which ferrous hemoglobin (Fe2+) is oxidized to the ferric (Fe3+) state, rendering it incapable of binding oxygen (O2). Fortunately, it is diagnosable and treatable. Here, we present a systematic review of food‐induced methemoglobinemia. PubMed and Embase databases were searched using the term “methemoglobin*,” for articles up to December 31, 2020. Inclusion criteria were confirmed or probable cases of methemoglobinemia with an oxidant confirmed in food or body tissue samples, or the oxidant likely to have come from food. We found 97 articles describing 568 cases. Median age was 6 years (range: 2 weeks to 80 years). Median methemoglobin fraction was 30% (n = 142). Oxidizing agents were predominantly nitrites and nitrates. The commonest type of presentation was children eating vegetables (30%), followed by accidental ingestions (27%), and meat curing misadventures (22%). Favism was found to result in mild methemoglobinemia, highest fraction reported was 15.8%. Of the 35 deaths, 32 were from accidental ingestions (91%). In some fatal cases, diagnosis was likely delayed or missed, and antidote was not administered. The majority of cases survived, even with severe methemoglobin levels of up to 89%, provided that methylene blue was administered. Treatment with methylene blue alone resulted in an average methemoglobin drop of 39.1% (n = 22). Methemoglobinemia cases continue to occur due to accidental exposure, meat curing misadventures, and babies ingesting nitrate‐rich vegetables which have been inappropriately stored. Early recognition of the toxidrome, instituting antidote treatment, and notifying public health authorities are key to improved outcomes.
Sequential development of several RT‐qPCR tests using LNA nucleotides and dual probe technology to differentiate SARS‐CoV‐2 from influenza A and B
Authors: Radvánszka Monika , Paul Evan D. , Hajdu Roman , Boršová Kristína , Kováčová Viera , Putaj Piotr , Bírová Stanislava , Čirková Ivana , Čarnecký Martin , Buranovská Katarína , Szobi Adrián , Vojtaššáková Nina , Drobná Diana , Čabanová Viktória , Sláviková Monika , Ličková Martina , Vaňová Veronika , Fumačová Havlíková Sabína , Lukáčiková Ľubomíra , Kajanová Ivana , Koči Juraj , Rusňáková Diana , Sedláčková Tatiana , Max Klaas E. A. , Tuschl Thomas , Szemes Tomáš , Klempa Boris , Čekan Pavol
Published: March 2022

Sensitive and accurate RT‐qPCR tests are the primary diagnostic tools to identify SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected patients. While many SARS‐CoV‐2 RT‐qPCR tests are available, there are significant differences in test sensitivity, workflow (e.g. hands‐on‐time), gene targets and other functionalities that users must consider. Several publicly available protocols shared by reference labs and public health authorities provide useful tools for SARS‐CoV‐2 diagnosis, but many have shortcomings related to sensitivity and laborious workflows. Here, we describe a series of SARS‐CoV‐2 RT‐qPCR tests that are originally based on the protocol targeting regions of the RNA‐dependent RNA polymerase (RdRp) and envelope (E) coding genes developed by the Charité Berlin. We redesigned the primers/probes, utilized locked nucleic acid nucleotides, incorporated dual probe technology and conducted extensive optimizations of reaction conditions to enhance the sensitivity and specificity of these tests. By incorporating an RNase P internal control and developing multiplexed assays for distinguishing SARS‐CoV‐2 and influenza A and B, we streamlined the workflow to provide quicker results and reduced consumable costs. Some of these tests use modified enzymes enabling the formulation of a room temperature‐stable master mix and lyophilized positive control, thus increasing the functionality of the test and eliminating cold chain shipping and storage. Moreover, a rapid, RNA extraction‐free version enables high sensitivity detection of SARS‐CoV‐2 in about an hour using minimally invasive, self‐collected gargle samples. These RT‐qPCR assays can easily be implemented in any diagnostic laboratory and can provide a powerful tool to detect SARS‐CoV‐2 and the most common seasonal influenzas during the vaccination phase of the pandemic.
Postoperative venous thromboembolism after surgery for stage IA non‐small‐cell lung cancer: A single‐center, prospective cohort study
Authors: Dong Honghong , Liang Xiaoning , Gao Yingdi , Cai Yongsheng , Li Xinyang , Miao Jinbai , Wang Wenjiao , Hu Bin , Li Hui
Published: March 2022

Background

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) is a common postoperative complication of lung cancer, but the incidence and risk stratification of postoperative VTE in stage IA non‐small‐cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients remains unclear, therefore we conducted a single‐center prospective study.

Methods

A total of 314 consecutive patients hospitalized for lung cancer surgery and diagnosed with stage IA NSCLC from January 2017 to July 2021 were included. The patients were divided into the VTE group and the non‐VTE group according to whether VTE occurred after the operation. The patient's age, operation time, D‐dimer (D‐D) value, tumor pathology, and Caprini score were recorded. The different items were compared and included in logistic regression analysis to obtain independent risk factors, and the area under the receiver operating characteristics curve (AUC) was calculated.

Results

The incidence of VTE was 7.3%. Significant differences in age, operation time, preoperative and postoperative day 1 D‐D value, neuron‐specific enolase value, forced expiratory volume in 1 second, maximum ventilation, carbon monoxide diffusion capacity, and pathological diameter were noted between the two groups. Age (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.056–1.216) and postoperative day 1 D‐D value (95% CI 1.125–1.767) were independent risk factors. The incidence of VTE in the low‐, medium‐, and high‐risk groups with Caprini scores was 0%, 7.3%, and 11.5%, respectively. The AUC of the Caprini score was 0.704 (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

The incidence of postoperative VTE in patients with stage IA NSCLC was 7.3%. Age and postoperative day 1 D‐D value were independent risk factors for VTE. The Caprini score has a certain value in the diagnosis of postoperative VTE of stage IA NSCLC.
Müller Glia maintain their regenerative potential despite degeneration in the aged zebrafish retina
Authors: Martins Raquel R. , Zamzam Mazen , Tracey‐White Dhani , Moosajee Mariya , Thummel Ryan , Henriques Catarina M. , MacDonald Ryan B.
Published: March 2022

Ageing is a significant risk factor for degeneration of the retina. Müller glia cells (MG) are key for neuronal regeneration, so harnessing the regenerative capacity of MG in the retina offers great promise for the treatment of age‐associated blinding conditions. Yet, the impact of ageing on MG regenerative capacity is unclear. Here, we show that the zebrafish retina undergoes telomerase‐independent, age‐related neurodegeneration but that this is insufficient to stimulate MG proliferation and regeneration. Instead, age‐related neurodegeneration is accompanied by MG morphological aberrations and loss of vision. Mechanistically, yes‐associated protein (Yap), part of the Hippo signalling, has been shown to be critical for the regenerative response in the damaged retina, and we show that Yap expression levels decline with ageing. Despite this, morphologically and molecularly altered aged MG retain the capacity to regenerate neurons after acute light damage, therefore, highlighting key differences in the MG response to high‐intensity acute damage versus chronic neuronal loss in the zebrafish retina.
Changes in brain structure and function following chronic exposure to inhaled vaporised cannabis during periadolescence in female and male mice: A multimodal MRI study
Authors: Coleman James R. , Madularu Dan , Ortiz Richard J. , Athanassiou Maria , Knudsen Alexa , Alkislar Ilayda , Cai Xuezhu , Kulkarni Praveen P. , Cushing Bruce S. , Ferris Craig F.
Published: March 2022

Background and Aims

Social norms and legality surrounding the use of medical and recreational cannabis are changing rapidly. The prevalence of cannabis use in adolescence is increasing. The aim of this study was to assess any sex‐based neurobiological effects of chronically inhaled, vaporised cannabis on adolescent female and male mice.

Methods

Female and male mice were exposed daily to vaporised cannabis (10.3% Δ‐9‐tetrahydrocannabinol [THC] and 0.05% cannabidiol [CBD]) or placebo from postnatal day 23 to day 51. Following cessation of treatment, mice were examined for changes in brain structure and function using noninvasive multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Data from voxel‐based morphometry, diffusion weighted imaging and rest state functional connectivity were registered to and analysed with a 3D mouse atlas with 139 brain areas. Following imaging, mice were tested for their preference for a novel object.

Results

The effects were sexually dimorphic with females showing a unique distribution and inverse correlation between measures of fractional anisotropy and apparent diffusion coefficient localised to the forebrain and hindbrain. In contrast males displayed significant increased functional coupling with the thalamus, hypothalamus and brainstem reticular activating system as compared with controls. Cannabis males also presented with altered hippocampal coupling and deficits in cognitive function.

Conclusion

Chronic exposure to inhaled vaporised cannabis had significant effects on brain structure and function in early adulthood corroborating much of the literature. Females presented with changes in grey matter microarchitecture, while males showed altered functional connectivity in hippocampal circuitry and deficits in object recognition.
Can Reform of Information Disclosure by an Exchange Restrain Corporate Fraud? Evidence from China*
Authors: Wang Meng , Zhao Wanlong , Zhang Wei
Published: March 2022

This study examines the impact of information disclosure system reform (IDSR) on corporate fraud. IDSR includes the internet‐based communication platforms and the introduction of assessment methods for information disclosure. The study finds that reform in the Shenzhen Stock Exchange (SZSE) reduces the probability, frequency, and severity of corporate fraud. In contrast, the reform in the Shanghai Stock Exchange (SSE) has no such effect. The negative association between the SZSE reform and corporate fraud is more evident for firms with weak internal controls and modified audit opinions. This study suggests disclosing companies' ranking in information disclosure assessments to the public to improve governance.
Letter: risk of inflammatory bowel disease is related to alcohol consumption as well as ACEIs and ARBs—authors' reply
Authors: Khalili Hamed , Casey Kevin
Published: March 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Casey et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16731 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16815
Implementing therapist‐guided internet‐delivered cognitive behaviour therapy for obsessive–compulsive disorder in the UK’s IAPT programme: A pilot trial
Authors: Flygare Oskar , Lundström Lina , Andersson Erik , Mataix‐Cols David , Rück Christian
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Digital therapies such as internet‐delivered cognitive behaviour therapy (ICBT) can improve treatment access for patients with common mental disorders, but are rarely used in the Improving Access to Psychological Therapies (IAPT) programme in the United Kingdom. The objective of this study was to evaluate an evidence‐based ICBT intervention for obsessive‐compulsive disorder (OCD‐NET) in three IAPT services in an open trial.

Methods

Consecutively referred patients with a primary diagnosis of OCD (n = 474) were offered OCD‐NET. Symptoms of OCD, depression, anxiety, and level of functioning were measured weekly throughout treatment.

Results

In the full intention to treat sample (n = 474), the intervention was associated with large reductions in self‐reported OCD symptoms (d = 1.77), anxiety (d = 1.55) and depression (d = 0.8), as well as improvements in functional impairment (d = 0.51 to 0.72). Further, 35% of participants were in recovery at their last assessment, 25% achieved reliable improvement and 15% met criteria for both recovery and improvement. Among participants completing at least 4 modules (n = 261), corresponding to an adequate ‘dose’ of treatment, the rates of recovery (44%), reliable improvement (34%) and reliable recovery (21%) were higher. A majority of participants were satisfied with the online treatment and found the online materials helpful.

Conclusions

OCD‐NET is an effective treatment when delivered in regular care within the IAPT system. Challenges associated with implementing ICBT in regular health care are discussed.
Improvement in parasympathetic regulation is associated with engagement in classroom activity in primary school children experiencing poor classroom climate
Authors: Mastromatteo Libera Ylenia , Peruzza Marta , Scrimin Sara
Published: March 2022

Background

Self‐regulation promotes engagement within the classroom. At a physiological level, a good indicator of the ability of the system to self‐regulate is cardiac vagal tone (CVT).

Aims

The present study aims to assess children's change over time (1 year) in their parasympathetic regulation (by way of CVT) in response to a social and cognitive stressor. Moreover, it addresses whether, if present, this change over time in regulation influences students’ engagement in classroom activities while also accounting for classroom climate.

Sample

Forty‐nine second graders were assessed at two time points: November 2018 (T1) and 1 year later in 2019 (T2).

Methods

Children's CVT was registered at rest and while performing a stressful task during which they were asked to cognitively perform while being socially evaluated. Children were also interviewed on how much they feel engaged in classroom activities and their perceptions of classroom climate.

Results

A repeated measures analysis of variance including 2 Time Points ×2 Phases of CVT Registration (baseline and during the stressful task) revealed a significant decrease in cardiac vagal activity from baseline to the task at T1, indicating that initially most children were not able to self‐regulate and gave way to a stress response when facing the stressful task. The pattern changed at T2 when an active regulation took place signalled by an increase in CVT from baseline to the stressful task. Data analysis also revealed that among children who perceived a poorer classroom climate, the display of greater parasympathetic regulation over time was linked with higher active engagement in classroom activities.

Conclusions

Growth in physiological regulation in response to a challenging task is associated with better engagement in classroom activities. Interventions and educational practice promoting the development of self‐regulation strategies are recommended.
Involving people with intellectual disability in setting priorities for building community inclusion at a local government level
Authors: Robinson Sally , Carnemolla Phillippa , Lay Kiri , Kelly Jack
Published: March 2022

Background

Local governments play an important role in supporting people with intellectual disability to feel included in their local communities and local‐level inclusion is an increasing priority for councils and local authorities in many countries. However, people with intellectual disability themselves have had little involvement in setting the priorities for initiatives and activities in their local communities. In the project, we wanted to know what kinds of initiatives were being implemented and what people with intellectual disability felt was important about these activities in their local communities. In this paper, we explore how the involvement of people with intellectual disability has shaped the outcomes of the review and implications for research and practice.

Methods

We completed a review of local‐level inclusion‐building initiatives. We translated the results into accessible formats and our inclusive research team used these to involve six people with intellectual disability in New South Wales, Australia, in exploring their priorities around kinds of activities, quality and depth of inclusion in their local communities.

Findings

The data showed that people wanted to share their deep, rich insights and questions about the things that drive inclusion and exclusion—not only their views about the effectiveness of particular kinds of activities.

Conclusions

Implications for future policy and practice are that consultation should not be framed narrowly, but invite people with intellectual disability into conversation about change‐making at community and societal levels, as well as seeking their views on specific initiatives and activities. This opens up new opportunities to respond to the priorities of people with intellectual disability in local community‐building.
Emollient satisfaction questionnaire: validation study in children with eczema
Authors: Rowley Georgia G. , MacNeill Stephanie J. , Ridd Matthew J.
Published: March 2022

Background

Emollients are used as maintenance therapy for all severities of eczema but there is a lack of head-to-head comparisons of effectiveness and acceptability.

Aim

To determine the validity of a self-report questionnaire designed to assess user satisfaction with a given emollient and to report the findings.

Methods

Data were analysed from the Choice of Moisturiser for Eczema Treatment trial, which compared four emollient types (Aveeno® lotion, Diprobase® cream, Doublebase® gel and Hydromol® ointment) in children aged < 5 years with clinically diagnosed eczema. An emollient satisfaction questionnaire was completed after 12 weeks. Responses for individual items were scored from 0 to 4. Total scores ranged from 0 to 28 (low to high satisfaction). Completion rates and distributions of responses for individual items and total scores, categorized by emollient type, were assessed, and two hypotheses were tested to determine the questionnaire's construct validity.

Results

Data from 77.2% (152 of 197) of participants were analysed. One item was rejected because of a high rate (44.7%) of ‘don't know’ responses, leaving seven items with high completion rates (98.7%) and weak evidence of floor or ceiling effects. A positive association was observed between total score and overall emollient satisfaction (Spearman correlation 0.78; P < 0.001). Total scores were highest (mean ± SD 23.5 ± 3.9) in the lotion group and lowest (18.4 ± 4.6) in the ointment group.

Conclusion

The emollient satisfaction questionnaire appears to have good validity. Further work is required to validate the questionnaire in other settings and to assess its reliability.
Impact of socioeconomic deprivation on evaluation for heart transplantation at an urban academic medical center
Authors: DeFilippis Ersilia M. , Clerkin Kevin J. , Givens Raymond C. , Kleet Audrey , Rosenblum Hannah , O'Connell Desire Cruz , Topkara Veli K. , Bijou Rachel , Sayer Gabriel , Uriel Nir , Takeda Koji , Farr Maryjane A.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

For patients with advanced heart failure, socioeconomic deprivation may impede referral for heart transplantation (HT). We examined the association of socioeconomic deprivation with listing among patients evaluated at our institution and compared this against the backdrop of our local community.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of patients evaluated for HT between January 2017 and December 2020. Patient demographics and clinical characteristics were recorded. Block group‐level area deprivation index (ADI) decile was obtained at each patient's home address and Socioeconomic Status (SES) index was determined by patient zip code.

Results

In total, 400 evaluations were initiated; one international patient was excluded. Among this population, 111 (27.8%) were women, 219 (54.9%) were White, 94 (23.6%) Black, and 59 (14.8%) Hispanic. 248 (62.2%) patients were listed for transplant. Listed patients had significantly higher SES index and lower ADI compared to those who were not listed. However, after adjustment for clinical factors, ADI and SESi were not predictive of listing. Similarly, patient sex, race, and insurance did not influence the likelihood of listing for HT. Notably, the distribution of the referral cohort based on ADI deciles was not reflective of our center's catchment area, indicating opportunities for improving access to transplant for disadvantaged populations.

Conclusions

Although socioeconomic deprivation did not predict listing in our analysis, we recognize the need for broader outreach to combat upstream bias that prevents patients from being referred for HT.
Interrupted time series analysis of Canadian legal cannabis sales during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Armstrong Michael J. , Cantor Nathan , Smith Brendan T. , Jesseman Rebecca , Hobin Erin , Myran Daniel T.
Published: March 2022

Introduction

There were repeated reports of increased cannabis sales, use and health impacts in Canada during the COVID‐19 pandemic. However, it was unclear whether the increases were due to pandemic effects or industry expansion.

Methods

We performed interrupted time series regressions of monthly per capita legal cannabis sales from March 2019 to February 2021, first with national averages, then with provincial/territorial data after adjusting for store density. We considered two interruption alternatives: January 2020, when product variety increased; and March 2020, when pandemic restrictions began.

Results

The provincial/territorial regression with the January interruption explained R2 = 69.6% of within‐jurisdiction variation: baseline monthly per capita sales growth averaged $0.21 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.15, 0.26), sales immediately dropped in January by $1.02 (95% CI −1.67, −0.37), and monthly growth thereafter increased by $0.16 (95% CI 0.06, 0.25). With the March interruption, the regression instead explained 68.7% of variation: baseline sales growth averaged $0.14 (95% CI 0.06, 0.22), there was no immediate drop and growth thereafter increased by $0.22 per month (95% CI 0.08, 0.35).

Discussion and Conclusions

Increasing cannabis sales during the pandemic was consistent with pre‐existing trends and increasing store numbers. The extra increased growth was more aligned with January's new product arrivals than with March's pandemic measures, though the latter cannot be ruled out. We found little evidence of pandemic impacts on Canada's aggregate legal cannabis sales. We therefore caution against attributing increased population‐level cannabis use or health impacts primarily to the pandemic.
Classification and Roundabout Production in High‐value Agriculture: A Fresh Approach to Industrialization
Authors: Cramer Christopher , Di John Jonathan , Sender John
Published: March 2022

Developing countries are balance‐of‐payments constrained. In this context, high‐value agricultural exports can make a greater contribution to structural change than development economists and developing country governments have typically acknowledged. This is thanks to dramatic recent changes in agricultural production, consumption and trade. These transformations are obscured by a simple classification system that has not adapted to changing patterns of global capitalist production. This article examines some recent efforts to rethink the basis of economic classification; it contributes to this emerging literature by proposing a way to think about the distinctions among economic activities that builds directly from the observation of production rather than a method of ex‐post mapping of trade data. A more accurate classification of economic activities would, the authors suggest, help policy officials design more coherent and growth‐enhancing industrial policies in support of accelerated structural change and productivity growth. The article draws on primary fieldwork in Ethiopia in particular, but also on fieldwork in South Africa and on secondary evidence.
Contrasting impacts of herbivore induction and elevated atmospheric CO2 on silicon defences and consequences for subsequent herbivores
Authors: Biru Fikadu N. , Cazzonelli Christopher I. , Elbaum Rivka , Johnson Scott N.
Published: March 2022

Plants are often sequentially attacked by multiple herbivores; feeding by one herbivore can alter host plant quality that affects the performance of subsequent herbivores. Previous studies suggest that silicon (Si) is a highly inducible defence in grasses (Poaceae) following herbivory, so could mediate such temporally separated insect herbivore interactions. Elevated atmospheric CO2 concentrations (eCO2), in contrast, often reduce Si accumulation, which potentially weakens this interaction. We examined the effects of prior feeding by Helicoverpa armigera (Hübner) (Lepidoptera: Noctuidae) on the performance of crickets, Acheta domesticus (L.) (Orthoptera: Gryllidae), subsequently feeding on the same plant. We used Brachypodium distachyon (L.) P. Beauv. grass supplemented or non‐supplemented with Si and grown in the glasshouse maintained at ambient (aCO2) or eCO2 concentrations. As hypothesized, prior feeding by caterpillars induced Si accumulation. Despite eCO2 reducing Si accumulation, initial herbivore induction of Si negated the effects of eCO2. Both, previous caterpillar herbivory and Si supplementation reduced cricket performance. Si induction by successive herbivory was additive. Plant biomass was similar in plants attacked by caterpillars alone or both herbivores, suggesting that initial Si induction by caterpillars deterred feeding by crickets. Our results demonstrate that Si induction by one herbivore negatively impacts successive herbivores, as has been demonstrated for secondary metabolite‐mediated interactions. Uniquely, however, Si induction is an irreversible defence and potentially a stronger, or perhaps longer‐lasting mediator of such herbivore interactions in some plant taxa.
When are bacteria really gazelles? Comparing patchy ecologies with dimensionless numbers
Authors: Urmy Samuel S. , Cramer Alli N. , Rogers Tanya L. , Sullivan‐Stack Jenna , Schmidt Marian , Stewart Simon D. , Symons Celia C.
Published: March 2022

From micro to planetary scales, spatial heterogeneity—patchiness—is ubiquitous in ecosystems, defining the environments in which organisms move and interact. However, most large‐scale models still use spatially averaged ‘mean fields’ to represent natural populations, while fine‐scale spatially explicit models are mostly restricted to particular organisms or systems. In a conceptual paper, Grünbaum (2012, Interface Focus 2: 150–155) introduced a heuristic, based on three dimensionless ratios quantifying movement, reproduction and resource consumption, to characterise patchy ecological interactions and identify when mean‐field assumptions are justifiable. We calculated these dimensionless numbers for 33 interactions between consumers and their resource patches in terrestrial, aquatic and aerial environments. Consumers ranged in size from bacteria to whales, and patches lasted from minutes to millennia, with separation scales from mm to hundreds of km. No interactions could be accurately represented by naive mean‐field models, though 19 (58%) could be partially simplified by averaging out movement, reproductive or consumption dynamics. Clustering interactions by their non‐dimensional ratios revealed several unexpected dynamic similarities. For example, bacterial Pseudoalteromonas exploit nutrient plumes similarly to Mongolian gazelles grazing on ephemeral steppe vegetation. We argue that dimensional analysis is valuable for characterising ecological patchiness and can link widely different systems into a single quantitative framework.
Anticonvulsive properties of soticlestat, a novel cholesterol 24‐hydroxylase inhibitor
Authors: Nishi Toshiya , Metcalf Cameron S. , Fujimoto Shinji , Hasegawa Shigeo , Miyamoto Maki , Sunahara Eiji , Watanabe Sayuri , Kondo Shinichi , White H. Steve
Published: March 2022

Objective

The formation of 24S‐hydroxycholesterol is a brain‐specific mechanism of cholesterol catabolism catalyzed by cholesterol 24‐hydroxylase (CYP46A1, also known as CH24H). CH24H has been implicated in various biological mechanisms, whereas pharmacological lowering of 24S‐hydroxycholesterol has not been fully studied. Soticlestat is a novel small‐molecule inhibitor of CH24H. Its therapeutic potential was previously identified in a mouse model with an epileptic phenotype. In the present study, the anticonvulsive property of soticlestat was characterized in rodent models of epilepsy that have long been used to identify antiseizure medications.

Methods

The anticonvulsive property of soticlestat was investigated in maximal electroshock seizures (MES), pentylenetetrazol (PTZ) acute seizures, 6‐Hz psychomotor seizures, audiogenic seizures, amygdala kindling, PTZ kindling, and corneal kindling models. Soticlestat was characterized in a PTZ kindling model under steady‐state pharmacokinetics to relate its anticonvulsive effects to pharmacodynamics.

Results

Among models of acutely evoked seizures, whereas anticonvulsive effects of soticlestat were identified in Frings mice, a genetic model of audiogenic seizures, it was found ineffective in MES, acute PTZ seizures, and 6‐Hz seizures. The protective effects of soticlestat against audiogenic seizures increased with repetitive dosing. Soticlestat was also tested in models of progressive seizure severity. Soticlestat treatment delayed kindling acquisition, whereas fully kindled animals were not protected. Importantly, soticlestat suppressed the progression of seizure severity in correlation with 24S‐hydroxycholesterol lowering in the brain, suggesting that 24S‐hydroxycholesterol can be aggressively reduced to produce more potent effects on seizure development in kindling acquisition.

Significance

The data collectively suggest that soticlestat can ameliorate seizure symptoms through a mechanism distinct from conventional antiseizure medications. With its novel mechanism of action, soticlestat could constitute a novel class of antiseizure medications for treatment of intractable epilepsy disorders such as developmental and epileptic encephalopathy.
Elder financial abuse based on victim–perpetrator relationship as perceived by Asian young adults
Authors: Mohideen Fadhila Ahamed , Khokhlova Olga
Published: March 2022

Objective

The current study aimed to examine how Asian adults perceive the severity of elder financial abuse (EFA) based on victim–perpetrator relationship and the explanations they give for minimizing it when the perpetrator is a close family member.

Background

Financial abuse, one of the fastest growing forms of abuse in the elderly population, has remained understudied, especially in Asian communities, due to cultural variations in its definition and perception.

Method

A mixed‐methods study design was utilized. One hundred sixty‐four participants responded to two vignettes depicting EFA perpetrated by a close family member (son) and nonfamily member (neighbor).

Results

Paired samples t test found significant differences in severity ratings of EFA committed by son and neighbor within Asian adults. The qualitative report explored participants' explanations for minimizing EFA perpetrated by close family member using thematic analysis, which identified two major themes: (a) dismissal of severity and responsibility and (2) justification of abuse.

Conclusion

This is one of the few studies to provide valuable insight into the influence of culture on perceptions of elder abuse.

Implications

With the elderly population in Asia increasing steadily, culturally relevant risk factors of abuse need to be identified because this could guide legal provisions that help protect the rights of older individuals.
What exactly are you restoring us to? A critical examination of Indigenous experiences of state‐centred restorative justice
Authors: Tauri Juan Marcellus
Published: March 2022

Over the past 30 years the restorative justice (RJ) movement has become increasingly accepted within the creases of formal justice systems everywhere, but most especially within the systems of settler‐colonial states. From a critical Indigenous perspective one especially powerful driver for the elevation of RJ to its current exalted place in state crime control, has been the purposeful utilisation of Indigenous cultural artefacts by the movement to market their wares. Utilising research on Indigenous peoples’ experiences of state‐centred RJ programmes, this article challenges claims made by RJ practitioners and state functionaries regarding the emancipatory potential of RJ practices for Indigenous peoples residing in settler colonial contexts.
The development of 3D technology for the creation of glass sealants for tubular oxide fuel cells
Authors: Saetova N. S. , Shirokova E.S. , Krainova D. A. , Chebykin N. S. , Ananchenko B. A. , Tolstobrov I.V. , Belozerov K.S. , Kuzmin A. V.
Published: March 2022

The creation of gas‐tight connections in solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) requires finding a suitable glass sealant composition and developing high‐tech approaches to sealant molding. 3D printing has been used successfully to mold SOFC functional materials (anode, electrolyte), and this study tests its applicability to glass sealant printing. We have found the composition of the glass‐filled polymer compound to print glass sealants for tubular SOFCs: the polycaprolactone/filler ratio is 60/40 wt%. Silica has been shown to be a good model filler to polish the 3D printing technology. Polymer decomposition during sealing leads to the formation of voids and seal failure, which indicates that the filler content of 40 wt % is insufficient for such purposes.
Oral findings in kidney transplant children and adolescents
Authors: Tuma Marina , Silva Andrade Natália , Correia Aires Rosana , Cristelli Marina Pontello , Medina Pestana José Osmar , Gallottini Marina
Published: March 2022

Background

Children and adolescents undergoing kidney transplantation may present oral conditions after the procedure, but a few studies have recently described them.

Aim

To describe the oral conditions of post‐renal transplant children and adolescents.

Design

Two calibrated dentists examined all the participants by assessing caries experience, enamel defects, periodontal condition and soft tissue lesions.

Results

A total of 120 participants were included in the study, in which 63 (52.5%) were male and 57 (47.5%) were female, with a mean age of 12.78 ± 3.9 years. Among the participants, 104 (86.7%) showed at least one oral change directly related to kidney disease. The most frequent oral findings were enamel defect (49/120; 40.8%) and drug‐induced gingival overgrowth (DIGO) (20/120; 16.7%). Gingival bleeding was observed on probing in 115 (95.8%) participants, whereas 69 (57.5%) presented dental calculus and 51 (42.5%) had caries experience.

Conclusion

Gingival bleeding, enamel defects and DIGO were the most frequent oral findings in kidney transplant children and adolescents. The use of amlodipine and anticonvulsants was associated with DIGO, and there was a positive correlation between oral ulcers and use of everolimus.
Tissue chondrification and ossification in keloids with primary report of five cases
Authors: Li Qiannan , Tu Tian , Wu Xiaoli , Wang Wenbo , Gao Zhen , Liu Wei
Published: March 2022

Keloid is commonly regarded as a benign skin tumour. Some keloids clinically exhibit hard tissue texture similar to that of cartilage or bone. We hypothesized that the keloid pathological niche environment is likely to induce keloid MSCs towards chondrogenic or osteogenic differentiation and leads to cartilage or bone‐like tissue formation. The differences in tissue ossification, histology, mechanical properties, abnormal extracellular matrices and chondrogenic/osteogenic gene expression among sclerous keloids (SKs), regular keloids (RKs) and normal skins (NKs) were carefully examined. The sporadic ossified islets existed in SK group whereas no ossified/chondrified islet was found in other groups by micro‐CT reconstruction. H&E, Masson trichrome and safranin O staining revealed lacuna‐like structures in SKs, which were featured as bone/cartilage histology. Immunohistochemical staining showed overproduction of osteoprotegerin, type I and III collagen in SK group but similar production level of aggrecan among three groups. The biomechanical analysis demonstrated the weakest compliance of SK tissues. In addition, SK fibroblasts exhibited a relatively slower proliferation rate but higher expression levels of osteogenic and chondrogenic genes among all three groups. These cell populations also showed the strongest potential for lineage transformation. In conclusion, we first reported the presence of ossified and chondrified matrices in some extremely hard keloids in the present study.
Dissecting heat tolerance and yield stability in maize from greenhouse and field experiments
Authors: Liu Mayang , Sheng Dechang , Liu Xiaoli , Wang Yuanyuan , Hou Xinfang , Wang Yuqi , Wang Pu , Guan Ling , Dong Xin , Huang Shoubing
Published: March 2022

High temperature during flowering increasingly reduces maize yield with warming climate. Heat tolerance of maize is however not fully understood in the aspect of flowering characteristics and yield stability, especially in the female flowering patterns. Temperature‐controlled greenhouse studies were conducted to test heat tolerances of four inbred lines and five hybrids, including 30/20 and 40/30°C treatments during 15 days bracketing the silking stage. Field studies were conducted to determine yield stabilities of five hybrids at three stations including four field environments. In greenhouse study, fertility rate and kernel number per ear (KN/ear) of nine genotypes reduced from 34.41–83.03% and 162.0–653.7 at 30/20°C to 0.68–23.13% and 0.3–332.5 at 40/30°C, respectively, mainly due to reduced pollen shed weight (PSW), pollen viability (PV) and silking rate (SR) at 40/30°C. Hybrids Chang7‐2×Qi319 and Chang7‐2×Xian2 showed significantly higher yields and KN/ear at 30/20°C, but only Chang7‐2×Qi319 performed better at 40/30°C. In field studies, Chang7‐2×Xian2, Xian2×Zheng58, Qi319×Xian2 and Chang7‐2×Qi319 were winning hybrids at specific environments. Chang7‐2×Xian2 showed the highest yield potential due to the larger ear size and KN/ear but a lower yield stability because of the lower PSW and PV. Chang7‐2×Qi319 combined high‐yield potential and high‐yield stability, which can be explained by large PSW, high PV and SR, and stable flowering pattern at different environments. Female flowering pattern (e.g. silking dynamics) is also a key determinant of high temperature tolerance and yield stability in maize. Hence, maize male and female organs should be equally concerned when achieving high and stable yield under different adverse environments in warming climate.
Response to Hill and Powers: It is irrelevant that the mode and tempo of Cassia crossbill speciation is not typical for birds
Authors: Benkman Craig W. , Brock Chad D. , Parchman Thomas L. , Porter Cody K.
Published: March 2022

Species delineation has a long and contentious history, yet most agree that sympatric populations exhibiting high levels of reproductive isolation and evolving independently are species. In an opinion piece, Hill and Powers (2021; hereafter H&P) claim that several recognized species of crossbills (Loxia spp.) do not represent species because by no measure are they discrete, the vocalizations used to categorize crossbills are learned, modified and can switch to that of a different species, and reproductive isolation is incomplete and weak. We argue that the behavioral and genetic evidence indicate that Cassia crossbills L. sinesciuris, which we focus on because the data relevant to species status are more diverse and extensive, are genetically discrete; call modification rarely leads to crossbill misclassification and overwhelmingly results in call divergence and enhanced discrimination; and are nearly completely reproductively isolated with little evidence of introgression from sympatric red crossbills. The differences in our conclusions result in part from H&P mischaracterizing and misconstruing the ecology of Cassia crossbills, geographic context of their divergence, and evidence for reproductive isolation. H&P seemingly require that crossbills must adhere to the typical model of bird speciation–protracted divergence in allopatry, followed by a gradual increase in sympatry if reproductive isolation and ecological divergence allow–and require evidence such as initial long periods of allopatry, FST values > 0.2, divergent mtDNA and intrinsic postzygotic isolation. Although such evidence commonly distinguishes bird species, an increasing number of studies show that such criteria are not necessary to indicate sympatric, evolutionarily independent lineages.
Financial reporting uniformity: Its relation to comparability and its impact on financial statement users
Authors: L. Caylor Marcus , J. Chambers Dennis , Mutlu Sunay
Published: March 2022

We explore the relation between financial reporting uniformity and comparability. We also examine the effect of uniformity on analyst coverage, analyst forecast accuracy and analyst forecast dispersion. We develop a Compustat‐based financial statement account uniformity measure based on the presentation of common financial statement line items. We define uniformity using a Jaccard similarity index where a firm's non‐missing Compustat data items are compared to a prototypical firm for that industry year. We emphasize the conceptual difference between uniformity and comparability, and our tests do not show a significant association between uniformity and output‐based accounting comparability. However, we find that the association between account uniformity and comparability becomes positive in high research and development firms, while it becomes negative in firms with higher managerial discretion. We explore the association between uniformity and information processing efficiencies, and we show that our uniformity measure is positively associated with analyst coverage. Furthermore, we partition our uniformity measure into separate income statement and balance sheet components. We find that income statement uniformity is associated with higher forecast accuracy and lower forecast dispersion, while balance sheet uniformity is associated with greater analyst coverage. Finally, we provide further support for these findings using an XBRL‐based uniformity measure.
Therapeutic potentials of cell death inhibitors in rats with cardiac ischaemia/reperfusion injury
Authors: Luo Ying , Apaijai Nattayaporn , Liao Suchan , Maneechote Chayodom , Chunchai Titikorn , Arunsak Busarin , Benjanuwattra Juthipong , Yanpiset Panat , Chattipakorn Siriporn C. , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: March 2022

Growing evidence demonstrated that cell death pathways including ferroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis contribute to cardiac ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury. We hypothesized that ferroptosis, apoptosis and necroptosis contribute differently to myocardial damage during acute cardiac I/R injury. Rats underwent cardiac I/R or sham operation. I/R‐operated rats were divided into 4 groups: vehicle, apoptosis (Z‐vad), ferroptosis (Fer‐1) and necroptosis (Nec‐1) inhibition. Rats in each cell death inhibitor group were subdivided into 3 different dose regimens: low, medium and high. Infarct size, left ventricular (LV) function, arrhythmias and molecular mechanism were investigated. Cardiac I/R caused myocardial infarction, LV dysfunction, arrhythmias, mitochondrial dysfunction, mitochondrial dynamic imbalance, inflammation, apoptosis and ferroptosis. Infarct size, LV dysfunction, mitochondrial dysfunction, apoptosis and ferroptosis were all reduced to a similar extent in rats treated with Z‐vad (low and medium doses) or Fer‐1 (medium and high doses). Fer‐1 treatment also reduced mitochondrial dynamic imbalance and inflammation. No evidence of necroptosis was found in association with acute I/R injury, therefore Nec‐1 treatment could not be assessed. Apoptosis and ferroptosis, not necroptosis, contributed to myocardial damage in acute I/R injury. Inhibitors of these 2 pathways provided effective cardioprotection in rats with I/R injury though modulation of mitochondrial function and attenuated apoptosis and ferroptosis.
Clinical evaluation of anaesthetic‐like effect of two dermocosmetic formulations containing Aquaphilus dolomiae extract‐G3 in subjects with sensitive facial skin
Authors: Villaret A. , Lestienne F. , Vial F. , Aubert A. , Maret A. , El Marbouh L. , Bessou‐Touya S. , Castex‐Rizzi N. , Duplan H. , Coubetergues H.
Published: March 2022

Background

Sensitive skin is a common condition of hyper‐reactivity to external stimuli, e.g. heat or abrasion. The symptoms are subjective but can be measured using validated emotional and technical methods. Avène water has several beneficial effects on the skin. In vitro studies indicated that the active component of this natural spring water, Aquaphilus dolomiae extract‐G3 (ADE‐G3), modulates cutaneous sensitivity via an anaesthetic‐like mechanism.

Objectives

To assess facial skin reactivity after repeated application of two formulations containing ADE‐G3.

Methods

In open‐label studies, healthy subjects with sensitive facial skin applied cream or balm twice daily for 84 days. The severity of skin sensitivity was measured using the Sensitive Scale (based on quantifying visible or subjective signs). Subjective responses associated with pain or uncomfortable feeling were assessed by measuring electrodermal response (EDR). This involves measuring variations in skin electrical resistance due to non‐conscious physiological changes in activity of the sympathetic nervous system. Subjects were also evaluated for beneficial effects according to a quantitative approach using semantic assessment of a question regarding their skin quality. Evaluations were performed before and after the first application, and after 29/30, 56 and 84 days of twice daily use.

Results

There was a significant decrease in the EDR after stimuli immediately after the application of both ADE‐G3 formulations, which continued to decrease over 84 days (40–50% decrease by D85). Likewise, all physical and functional signs of the Sensitive Scale were significantly decreased immediately after the first application and at all time points tested after treatment. Verbatim analysis revealed a semantic shift, from mainly negative terms on D1 to mainly positive terms at D85 for both tested products.

Conclusions

These results demonstrated that two formulations containing ADE‐G3 reduced skin sensitivity, indicating a decreased activation of the sympathetic nervous system associated with this condition.