bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Don’t Touch My Constitution! Civil Society Resistance to Democratic Backsliding in Africa´s Pluralist Regimes
Authors: Rakner Lise
Published: August 2021

Analyzing civil society resistance to elite‐led democratic backsliding in Africa, the article argues that the non‐militant, civil society‐based transitions experienced in the 1990s left a legacy of a pro‐democracy cleavage that is mobilized when central constitutional rights are threatened. Building on insights from social movement theory, the paper argues that the conduct of multiparty elections at regular intervals provides an opportunity for contestation over constitutional rules, and the historical legacy of pro‐democracy movements provides a mobilizing structure for civil society to organize for the protection of constitutional rights. The theoretical argument is illustrated by a comparison of the democratic trajectories in Zambia and Malawi. In both countries, incumbent elites’ have attempted to remain in power through constitutional revisions. However, processes of executive aggrandizement have been stalled by civil society mobilization that again have resulted in incumbent defeat and electoral turn‐overs. Recent waves of democratic backsliding suggest that the autonomy of civil society from political parties may be a key factor for the ability of civil society to challenge autocratization. Malawi’s civil society has maintained a high degree of autonomy but in Zambia, the close cooperation between civil society and the Patriotic Front (PF) and the resulting cooptation of key civil society actors have resulted in a process of autocratization.
Refraining or Resisting: Responses of Green Movement Supporters to Repression During the 2013 Iranian Presidential Elections
Authors: Honari Ali , Muis Jasper
Published: August 2021

Findings on the effect of repression on political participation are mixed and inconclusive. This article addresses this puzzle by introducing and conceptualizing ‘responses to repression’ as individuals’ varying willingness to risk‐taking and continuing with political activities despite possible threats. We use three‐wave panel survey data and focus on the run‐up to the 2013 Iranian presidential elections, during which the gradual decline in political participation of Green Movement supporters turned into a remarkable increase in activism. The findings indicate that the decision to either refrain from or resist repression plays an important role in explaining some forms of political participation. And, in turn, this decision to either refrain or resist is influenced by social‐psychological factors: Iranian Green Movement (IGM) supporters who experienced less fear, were more aggrieved and perceived lower levels of repression than other supporters, were more inclined to embrace risks. Consequently, they more frequently engaged in everyday forms of resistance – covert activities, which are difficult to be controlled and surveilled by states. It implies that social movement supporters in repressive contexts cannot only ignore the risks associated with activism and continue with the same activity but can also find or invent other forms of political activity to resist repression.
Motivated Perspective Taking: Why Prompting Auditors to Take an Investor's Perspective Makes Them Treat Identified Audit Differences as Less Material*
Authors: Altiero Elizabeth C. , Kang Yoon Ju , Peecher Mark E.
Published: August 2021

Audit regulators and commentators propose prompting auditors to more fully take an investor's perspective as a remedy to their concern that auditors underreact to material misstatements. By contrast, we predict that prompting auditors in this manner will backfire, making them less (more) heavily weight indicia that misstatements are (not) material. We further predict auditors will apply this asymmetric weighting instrumentally—to a greater degree as needed—to justify management‐preferred conclusions. We test these predictions in two experiments in which in‐charge audit seniors judge the likelihood that identified audit differences are material and choose required adjustment amounts. Between‐participants, we manipulate whether or not auditors are prompted to take an investor's perspective and, within‐participants, whether these audit differences would or would not violate a qualitative criterion—by breaking or not breaking a favorable profitability trend. Study 1 uses a context in which a relatively low degree of motivated perspective taking is needed, as the audit difference is just below tolerable misstatement (TM). Investor‐prompted auditors assess audit differences as less likely to be material than do unprompted auditors, but only when the qualitative criterion is not violated. Study 2 adds a between‐participant manipulation of misstatement tolerability—that is, whether the audit difference is just below or well above TM. Consistent with an instrumental increase in motivated perspective taking, investor‐prompted auditors assess audit differences that simultaneously are less tolerable and violate a qualitative criterion as significantly less likely to be material. Overall, our theory and experimental evidence suggest prompting auditors to take the investor perspective may have unintended consequences.
Assessing the Influence of Different Interest Groups on International Tax Policy: Evidence from the BEPS Project*
Authors: Elschner Christina , Hardeck Inga
Published: August 2021

This study investigates the influence of three interest groups—businesses, the tax profession, and civil society—on tax rules in the context of the Organisation for Economic Co‐operation and Development (OECD) Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) project. Our study is important as prior research has not examined the direct influence of various interest groups on the content of tax rules by means of comment letters. Using content analysis, we seek to explain the lobbying success of the different interest groups by examining the relevance of the kind of information transmitted and the alliance strategies used. Results indicate that lobbying success is mainly explained by the vested interests of the three groups, with businesses less successful than the other two interest groups as long as all interest groups are equally able to provide information. We also find that the lobbying success of businesses increases when proposals require specific expertise. However, bias is still relevant for lobbying success as we find that proposals from tax professionals with practical experience, likely to reflect less bias, are relatively more successful than proposals from businesses. Furthermore, our results suggest that mobilizing commenters who have a shared interest in the form of alliances is a promising lobbying strategy. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of expertise and collective actions for lobbying success.
Validity of the modular assessment of risk for imminent suicide in predicting short‐term suicidality
Authors: Rogers Megan L. , Vespa Allison , Bloch‐Elkouby Sarah , Galynker Igor
Published: August 2021

Objective

The Modular Assessment of Risk for Imminent Suicide (MARIS) is a clinical assessment tool, consisting of four modules assessing (1) a pre‐suicidal cognitive‐affective state (Module 1); (2) patients’ attitudes toward suicide (Module 2); (3) clinicians’ assessment of suicide risk factors (Module 3); and (4) clinicians’ emotional responses to patients (Module 4) that assesses short‐term suicide risk. Initial evidence provided evidence for its reliability and concurrent validity. The present study extended these findings by examining the MARIS’s predictive validity in relation to suicidal thoughts and behaviors at one‐month follow‐up.

Methods

A sample of 1039 psychiatric patients (378 inpatients, 661 outpatients) and their clinicians (N = 144) completed a battery of measures at baseline; 670 patients completed the one‐month follow‐up assessment.

Results

MARIS total scores predicted suicidal thoughts and behaviors at one‐month follow‐up, even after controlling for baseline suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Moreover, both Module 1 and the Distress subscale of Module 4 were uniquely associated with suicidal thoughts and behaviors at one‐month follow‐up, controlling for baseline suicidal thoughts and behaviors. Modules 2 and 3, on the other hand, exhibited poor internal consistency.

Conclusion

Overall, both patient‐ and clinician‐rated indices are uniquely predictive of suicidal thoughts and behaviors at one‐month follow‐up, highlighting the need for integrating clinicians’ emotional responses into suicide risk assessment. Pending replication and extension of these findings in external samples, a briefer, two‐module version of MARIS (MARIS‐2) may be such an integrative, psychometrically sound, and clinically useful instrument that can be utilized to assess short‐term suicide risk.
Global fractional anisotropy predicts transition to psychosis after 12 months in individuals at ultra‐high risk for psychosis
Authors: Kristensen Tina D. , Glenthøj Louise B. , Ambrosen Karen , Syeda Warda , Raghava Jayachandra M. , Krakauer Kristine , Wenneberg Christina , Fagerlund Birgitte , Pantelis Christos , Glenthøj Birte Y. , Nordentoft Merete , Ebdrup Bjørn H.
Published: August 2021

Objective

Psychosis spectrum disorders are associated with cerebral changes, but the prognostic value and clinical utility of these findings are unclear. Here, we applied a multivariate statistical model to examine the predictive accuracy of global white matter fractional anisotropy (FA) for transition to psychosis in individuals at ultra‐high risk for psychosis (UHR).

Methods

110 UHR individuals underwent 3 Tesla diffusion‐weighted imaging and clinical assessments at baseline, and after 6 and 12 months. Using logistic regression, we examined the reliability of global FA at baseline as a predictor for psychosis transition after 12 months. We tested the predictive accuracy, sensitivity and specificity of global FA in a multivariate prediction model accounting for potential confounders to FA (head motion in scanner, age, gender, antipsychotic medication, parental socioeconomic status and activity level). In secondary analyses, we tested FA as a predictor of clinical symptoms and functional level using multivariate linear regression.

Results

Ten UHR individuals had transitioned to psychosis after 12 months (9%). The model reliably predicted transition at 12 months (χ2 = 17.595, p = 0.040), accounted for 15–33% of the variance in transition outcome with a sensitivity of 0.70, a specificity of 0.88 and AUC of 0.87. Global FA predicted level of UHR symptoms (R2 = 0.055, F = 6.084, p = 0.016) and functional level (R2 = 0.040, F = 4.57, p = 0.036) at 6 months, but not at 12 months.

Conclusion

Global FA provided prognostic information on clinical outcome and symptom course of UHR individuals. Our findings suggest that the application of prediction models including neuroimaging data can inform clinical management on risk for psychosis transition.
Longitudinal association between binge eating and metabolic syndrome in adults: Findings from the ELSA‐Brasil cohort
Authors: Solmi Francesca , Moreno Arlinda B. , Lewis Glyn , Angélica Nunes Maria , de Jesus Mendes da Fonseca Maria , Harter Griep Rosane
Published: August 2021

Objective

Individuals with bulimia nervosa and binge eating disorder have greater cardiovascular morbidity than the general population. Longitudinal research on the association between binge eating and metabolic syndrome is limited. We tested the longitudinal association between binge eating and metabolic syndrome and its components in a large population sample of Brazilian adults.

Methods

We used data from Brazilian Longitudinal Study of Adult Health (ELSA‐Brasil, N = 15,105). To test for the association between binge eating at baseline (2008–2010) and metabolic syndrome at follow‐up (2012–2014), we used univariable and multivariable logistic regression models progressively adjusting for potential socio‐demographic confounders, number of metabolic syndrome components, and body mass index (BMI) at baseline.

Results

In total, 13,388 participants (54.8% female; 52.2% white) had complete data on all variables of interest. Binge eating was associated with increased odds of metabolic syndrome at follow‐up (odds ratio (OR):1.66, 95% confidence intervals (CI): 1.44, 1.75). However, the size of this association was attenuated after including number of metabolic syndrome components at baseline (OR:1.19, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.35) and was no longer present after adjusting for baseline BMI (OR:1.09, 95% CI: 0.96, 1.25). Binge eating was also associated with higher odds of hypertension (OR:1.14, 95% CI: 0.99, 1.37) and hypertriglyceridemia (OR:1.21, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.37) at the follow‐up assessment after adjustment for all confounders.

Conclusions

Individuals who binge eat are at increased risk of metabolic syndrome via increased BMI, and of hypertriglyceridemia and hypertension independently of BMI. If these are causal associations, effective interventions for binge eating could also have beneficial effects on metabolic health outcomes.
An evaluation of the repeatability of electric pulp sensibility tests
Authors: Goh Leena , Er Joy , Pham Ylan , Abbott Paul V.
Published: August 2021

The accuracy, reliability and reproducibility of electric pulp tests (EPT) have been investigated but there is conflicting information about their repeatability. The aim of this study was to investigate whether EPT are repeatable over time. EPT results from 180 healthy teeth in 39 patients with 2–10 readings per tooth (total 692 readings) were analysed. Single measures intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) ranged from 0.776 to 0.845 in teeth with 2–7 repeated measures (P < 0.001), indicating good repeatability. With eight or more measures per tooth, the ICC was low, indicating poor repeatability over longer follow‐up times, but only seven teeth in two subjects were included in this analysis. The Pearson correlation showed no statistically significant correlation for 2–7 readings but when all readings were included, there was a statistically significant negative correlation. Hence, EPT has good repeatability.
Predictors of work ability and quality of life in older New Zealanders with and without an arthritis diagnosis
Authors: Koreshi Shanika Yoshini , Alpass Fiona
Published: August 2021

Objective

To determine predictors of work ability and quality of life in a population of older working New Zealanders with and without an arthritis diagnosis.

Methods

Participants aged 55‐85 (Mean = 71 years) were drawn from the New Zealand Health, Work and Retirement study. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted with a sample of N = 1154 (n = 696 with arthritis and matched sample (on gender only) of n = 458 without arthritis).

Results

Older adults diagnosed with arthritis reported lower levels of work ability and poorer quality of life in comparison with older adults without arthritis. Pain and fatigue were associated with poorer outcomes for all participants. Pain moderated the relationship between arthritis and work ability.

Conclusions

An ageing population will lead to an increase in older workers in the workforce. Chronic age‐related diseases such as arthritis may impact older workers’ ability to continue to work and enjoy a good quality of life.
Comparison between flattening filter‐free (FFF) and flattened photon beam VMAT plans for the whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT) with hippocampus sparing
Authors: Ji Tianlong , Sun Lu , Cai Feng , Li Guang
Published: August 2021

Purpose

To evaluate and investigate the feasibility of flattening filter‐free (FFF) beam for the whole‐brain radiotherapy (WBRT) with hippocampus sparing.

Methods

Eighteen patients with volumetric‐modulated arc therapy (VMAT) plans in FFF and conventional beam modes were included in this study. The prescribed dose was 30 Gy in 10 fractions. The conformity index (CI), heterogeneity index reported by TPS (HI‐M), and homogeneity index (HI) for planning target volume (PTV) were evaluated. Subsequently, the following parameters for PTV were calculated and compared: D2%, D98%; the mean dose, maximum dose, and minimal dose for OARs. Plan modulation index, total MUs, and the gamma index were used to evaluate the plan quality.

Results

HI‐M results were similar for the two techniques (1.239 vs. 1.247, respectively, p = 0.048); FFF beam plans yielded lower D2% compared to FF beam plans (3,416.3 cGy vs. 3,437.2 cGy, p = 0.22), mean dose (3,177.5 cGy vs. 3,195.2 cGy, p = 0.009), and CI (0.884 vs. 0.876, p = 0.001) for PTV. Significant differences were observed between the two beam modes (FF model vs. FFF model) for the maximum dose (1,612.9 cGy vs. 1,470.2 cGy, respectively, p < 0.001), minimum dose (987.6 cGy vs. 898.8 cGy, respectively, p < 0.001), and the mean dose (1144.4 cGy vs. 1047.3 cGy, respectively, p < 0.001) to the hippocampus, and the maximum dose to the eyes (2,792.6 cGy vs. 2,751.3 cGy, respectively, p < 0.001). The average total MUs for FFF‐VMAT plans was significantly greater than FF‐VMAT plans. However, differences for the plan modulation index and the gamma index were negligible.

Conclusion

In comparison with FF beam, the FFF beam mode offers a clear benefit with respect to WBRT with hippocampal sparing.
A retrospective audit of postoperative days alive and out of hospital, including before and after implementation of the WHO surgical safety checklist
Authors: Moore M. R. , Mitchell S. J. , Weller J. M. , Cumin D. , Cheeseman J. F. , Devcich D. A. , Hannam J. A. , Merry A. F. ,   for the CheckWHO group
Published: August 2021

We implemented the World Health Organization surgical safety checklist at Auckland City Hospital from November 2007. We hypothesised that the checklist would reduce postoperative mortality and increase days alive and out of hospital, both measured to 90 postoperative days. We compared outcomes for cohorts who had surgery during 18‐month periods before vs. after checklist implementation. We also analysed outcomes during 9 years that included these periods (July 2004–December 2013). We analysed 9475 patients in the 18‐month period before the checklist and 10,589 afterwards. We analysed 57,577 patients who had surgery from 2004 to 2013. Mean number of days alive and out of hospital (95%CI) in the cohort after checklist implementation was 1.0 (0.4–1.6) days longer than in the cohort preceding implementation, p < 0.001. Ninety‐day mortality was 395/9475 (4%) and 362/10,589 (3%) in the cohorts before and after checklist implementation, multivariable odds ratio (95%CI) 0.93 (0.80–1.09), p = 0.4. The cohort changes in these outcomes were indistinguishable from longer‐term trends in mortality and days alive and out of hospital observed during 9 years, as determined by Bayesian changepoint analysis. Postoperative mortality to 90 days was 228/5686 (4.0%) for Māori and 2047/51,921 (3.9%) for non‐Māori, multivariable odds ratio (95%CI) 0.85 (0.73–0.99), p = 0.04. Māori spent on average (95%CI) 1.1 (0.5–1.7) fewer days alive and out of hospital than non‐Māori, p < 0.001. In conclusion, our patients experienced improving postoperative outcomes from 2004 to 2013, including the periods before and after implementation of the surgical checklist. Māori patients had worse outcomes than non‐Māori.
The miRNAs involved in prostate cancer chemotherapy response as chemoresistance and chemosensitivity predictors
Authors: Konoshenko Maria , Laktionov Pavel
Published: August 2021

Background

Reliable molecular markers that allow the rational prescription of an effective chemotherapy type for each prostate cancer patient are still needed. Since microRNAs expression is associated with the response to different types of prostate cancer therapy, microRNAs represent a pool of perspective markers of therapy effectiveness comprising chemotherapy.

Objectives

The available data on microRNAs associated with chemotherapy response (resistance and sensitivity) are summarized and analyzed in the article.

Materials and methods

A review of the published data, as well as their analysis by current bioinformatics resources, was conducted. The molecular targets of microRNAs, as well as the reciprocal relationships between the microRNAs and their targets, were studied using the DIANA, STRING, and TransmiR databases. Special attention was dedicated to the mechanisms of prostate cancer chemoresistance development.

Results and discussion

The combined analysis of bioinformatics resources and the available literature indicated that the expression of eight microRNAs that are associated with different responses to chemotherapy have a high potential for the prediction of the prostate cancer chemotherapy response, as found in the experiments and confirmed by the functions of regulated genes.

Conclusion

An overview on the published data and bioinformatics resources, with respect to predictive microRNA markers of chemotherapy response, is presented in this review. The selected microRNA and gene panel has a high potential for predicting the chemosensitivity or chemoresistance of prostate cancer and could represent a set of markers for subsequent study using samples of cell‐free microRNAs from different patient groups.
Erectile dysfunction in hyperuricemia: A prevalence meta‐analysis and meta‐regression study
Authors: Totaro Maria , Dimarakis Sotirios , Castellini Chiara , D'Andrea Settimio , Parisi Antonio , D'Amato Federica , Tienforti Daniele , Palazzi Sara , Baroni Marco Giorgio , Francavilla Sandro , Barbonetti Arcangelo
Published: August 2021

Background

Whether and to what extent an association exists between hyperuricemia and erectile dysfunction (ED) has not yet been fully determined.

Objective

To define pooled prevalence estimates and correlates of erectile dysfunction in men with hyperuricemic disorders.

Materials and methods

A thorough search of Medline, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases was performed. Data were combined using random‐effects models and the between‐study heterogeneity was assessed by Cochrane's Q and I2 tests. A funnel plot was used to assess publication bias.

Results

Overall, 8 studies included gave information about 85,406 hyperuricemic men, of whom 5023 complained of erectile dysfunction, resulting in a pooled erectile dysfunction prevalence estimate of 33% (95% Confidence Interval: 13–52%; I² = 99.9%). The funnel plot suggested the presence of a publication bias. At the meta‐regression analyses, among the available covariates that could affect estimates, only type 2 diabetes mellitus was significantly associated with a higher prevalence of erectile dysfunction (β = 0.08; 95% Confidence Interval: 0.01, 0.15, p = 0.025). At the sub‐group analysis, the pooled erectile dysfunction prevalence decreased to 4% (95% Confidence Interval: 0%–8%) when only the largest studies with the lowest prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus were included and increased up to 50% (95% Confidence Interval: 17%–84%) when the analysis was restricted to studies enrolling smaller series with higher prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Conclusions

A not negligible proportion of men with hyperuricemia can complain of erectile dysfunction. While a pathogenetic contribution of circulating uric acid in endothelial dysfunction cannot be ruled out, the evidence of a stronger association between hyperuricemia and erectile dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus points to hyperuricemia as a marker of systemic dysmetabolic disorders adversely affecting erectile function.
Electrocardiographic predictors of early recurrence of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Choi Ji‐Hoon , Kwon Hee‐Jin , Kim Hye Ree , Park Seung‐Jung , Kim June Soo , On Young Keun , Park Kyoung‐Min
Published: August 2021

Background

Electrical cardioversion (ECV) is an effective method for restoring sinus rhythm after atrial fibrillation (AF). However, early recurrence of AF occurs in a significant number of patients after ECV. This study aimed to identify electrocardiographic (ECG) predictors of early AF recurrence after ECV.

Methods

A total of 272 patients with persistent AF undergoing successful ECV were consecutively enrolled in this study. We investigated clinical, echocardiographic, and ECG data. The 12‐lead ECG parameters were measured during sinus rhythm right after ECV using a digital caliper. The early AF recurrence was defined as recurrence within 2 months.

Results

Of the 272 patients, 165 patients (60.7%) experienced an early AF recurrence. Maximum P‐wave duration (PWD) in limb leads (OR: 1.086; 95% CI: 1.019–1.157; p = .012) and P‐terminal force (PTF) in V1 (OR: 1.019; 95% CI: 1.004–1.033; p = .011) were independent predictors of early AF recurrence after ECV. The optimal cutoff value of the maximum PWD in limb leads for predicting early AF recurrence was 134 ms, characterized by 90.3% sensitivity and 72.0% specificity. Likewise, the optimal cutoff value of PTF in V1 was 50 ms × mm, characterized by 80.0% sensitivity and 64.5% specificity.

Conclusion

A longer PWD (>134 ms) and a larger PTF (>50 ms × mm) were useful predictors of early recurrence of AF after successful ECV in clinical practice. A more effective rhythm control therapy such as catheter ablation or rate control strategy rather than a repeat ECV should be considered.
Tree diversity and carbon stocks in the Itombwe Mountains of eastern DR Congo
Authors: Imani Gérard , Kalume John , Marchant Rob , Calders Kim , Batumike Rodrigue , Bulonvu Franklin , Cuni‐Sanchez Aida
Published: August 2021

Our ecological understanding of tropical montane forests in Africa is still limited, particularly in the Albertine Rift. Because of a greater role of environmental filtering at higher elevations, tree species’ richness and aboveground biomass (AGB) is expected to decrease with increasing elevation. However, broader scale patterns are complex and different patterns have also been observed in different mountains. We established eight permanent 1‐ha plots in Itombwe Mountains and sampled all trees ≥10 cm diameter following standard RAINFOR protocols to investigate tree species’ richness, forest structure, and estimated AGB. We also collected and analyzed soil samples to establish how these affected AGB. We identified over 120 tree species, 12 of which were of international conservation concern according to IUCN criteria. Species richness was significantly negatively correlated with elevation. AGB ranged from 268 Mg/ha (submontane) to 396 Mg/ha (middle montane forests), and it was significantly positively correlated with elevation, soil organic matter, and soil organic C and N. We compare Itombwe with other montane forests in the Albertine Rift, to demonstrate their high floristic diversity, high abundance of large stems, and high AGB, insights which are crucial for the future management of these unique forests.

Abstract in French is available with online material.
Molecular cytology of the respiratory tract and pleura
Authors: Zhou Fang , Shum Elaine , Moreira Andre L.
Published: August 2021

There is growing evidence that molecular testing is feasible on all types of cytological preparation, which is fortunate as more diagnostic markers and biomarkers for targeted therapies are discovered for use in pulmonary and pleural malignancies. In this article we will discuss the pre‐analytic, analytic, and post‐analytic (interpretive) considerations for successful implementation of molecular tests for diagnostic and predictive markers in respiratory and pleural cytology. The vast majority of laboratories are familiar with, and have validated their molecular protocols for, formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded surgical specimens, which are not directly applicable to cytology specimens. Thus, rigorous validation must be performed for each type of fixative and cytology preparation before it is implemented in the clinical setting.
Alcohol interventions for LGBTQ+ adults: A systematic review
Authors: Dimova Elena D. , Elliott Lawrie , Frankis Jamie , Drabble Laurie , Wiencierz Stacey , Emslie Carol
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Gender and sexual minority populations are more likely to drink excessively compared to heterosexual and cisgender people. Existing reviews of alcohol interventions focus on specific subgroups within the lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans*, queer, questioning or otherwise gender or sexuality diverse (LGBTQ+) population and neither identify their theoretical basis nor examine how interventions are tailored to meet the needs of specific subgroups.

Methods

This systematic review includes published studies reporting the effectiveness of interventions to reduce alcohol use in LGBTQ+ people. The review followed PRISMA guidelines. Quality was assessed using the Effective Public Health Practice Project (EPHPP) Quality Assessment Tool.

Results

The review includes 25 studies, with the earliest published in 2005. The majority (n = 20) focused on men who have sex with men; only two included sexual minority women and three included trans* people. Most studies were conducted in the USA (n = 21) and used a randomised design (n = 15). Five studies were assessed to be of strong quality, seven moderate and 13 weak. Interventions were mainly delivered face‐to‐face (n = 21). The most common approaches used to inform interventions were Motivational Interviewing (n = 8) and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (n = 8). Nineteen studies reported a significant reduction in alcohol consumption.

Discussion and Conclusions

This review suggests that for interventions to be effective in reducing alcohol consumption in LGBTQ+ people, they need to be informed by theory and adapted for the target population. Alcohol interventions that focus on sexual minority women, trans* people and people with other gender identities are needed. The findings have implications for professionals who need to identify when gender and/or sexuality are peripheral or central to alcohol use.
Host‐associated differentiation of target pests should be assessed before using gene drive as a pest control tool − an opinion
Authors: Medina Raul F.
Published: August 2021

Advances in gene editing have made feasible the potential use of gene drive for pest control. Ecological risk assessments will certainly be required before this technology can be released into open fields. In this article, I argue for the importance to include host‐associated differentiation (HAD) as part of ecological risk assessment models due to its potential to modulate gene drive spread and risk. Depending on the context, HAD may hamper or facilitate pest control efforts using gene drives. Overlooking HAD may impair pest suppression goals and inflate estimations of effective population sizes, whereas its inclusion within gene drive deployment strategies, as a form of ecological containment, may facilitate gene drive implementation under specific scenarios. Because HAD varies geographically and among closely related species, it will need to be assessed on a case‐by‐case basis. Failure to incorporate HAD within ecological risk assessment models may undermine pest control goals and diminish the accuracy of estimated ecological risks associated with gene drive releases.
Blockade of the interaction between BMP9 and endoglin on erythroid progenitors promotes erythropoiesis in mice
Authors: Yamaguchi Ayami , Hirano Ikuo , Narusawa Shiho , Shimizu Kiyoshi , Ariyama Hiroyuki , Yamawaki Kengo , Nagao Kenji , Yamamoto Masayuki , Shimizu Ritsuko
Published: August 2021

Bone morphogenetic protein‐9 (BMP9), a member of the transforming growth factor β (TGFβ) superfamily, plays important roles in the development and maintenance of various cell lineages via complexes of type I and type II TGFβ receptors. Endoglin is a coreceptor for several TGFβ family members, including BMP9, which is highly expressed in a particular stage of differentiation in erythroid cells as well as in endothelial cells. Although the importance of the interaction between BMP9 and endoglin for endothelial development has been reported, the contribution of BMP9 to endoglin‐expressing erythroid cells remains to be clarified. To address this point, we prepared an anti‐BMP9 antibody that blocks the BMP9‐endoglin interaction. Of note, challenge with the antibody promotes erythropoiesis in wild‐type mice but not in a mouse model of renal anemia in which erythropoietin (EPO) production in the kidneys is genetically ablated. While endoglin‐positive erythroid progenitors are mainly maintained as progenitors when bone marrow‐derived lineage‐negative and cKit‐positive cells are cultured in the presence of EPO and stem cell factor, the erythroid‐biased accumulation of progenitors is impeded by the presence of BMP9. Our findings uncover an unrecognized role for BMP9 in attenuating erythroid differentiation via its interaction with endoglin on erythroid progenitors.
Effect of Helicobacter pylori eradication on hyperplastic gastric polyps: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ouyang Yaobin , Zhang Wenjing , Huang Yancheng , Wang Yao , Shao Qing , Wu Xidong , Lu Nonghua , Xie Chuan
Published: August 2021

Background

There is increasing evidence that the eradication of Helicobacter pylori leads to the regression of gastric hyperplastic polyps (GHPs). We performed a systematic review with a meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials and observational studies that assessed the effects of eradication.

Materials and Methods

We searched the PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials databases for relevant studies with a combination of the terms “Helicobacter pylori” and “polyps.” The risk ratio was used to compare the effect of H. pylori eradication/treatment on GHP. We also calculated the pooled disappearance rate of GHP in the H. pylori eradication/treatment group and persistent infection group.

Results

We analyzed data from 6 studies, including 3 RCTs. A total of 58/394 patients were included in the H. pylori treatment/successful eradication group, and 57/302 patients were included in the H. pylori untreated/persistent infection group. The pooled rate of GHP elimination after H. pylori treatment/successful eradication was 59% (95% CI, 43%‐75%)/79% (95% CI, 72%‐86%). H. pylori treatment/successful eradication significantly increased the GHP elimination rate [ITT: (pooled rate: 58% vs. 0%, RR =22.24, 95% CI, 4.51– 109.78, p = 0.0001), PP: (pooled rate: 65% vs. 0%, RR =22.25, 95% CI, 4.52– 109.37, p = 0.0001)/(pooled rate: 79% vs. 9%, RR =26.87, 95% CI, 1.34–540.5, p = 0.03)].

Conclusions

Our meta‐analysis showed that after the eradication of H. pylori, most GHPs are eliminated. Moreover, the treatment/successful eradication of H. pylori increased the GHP elimination rate by more than 20 times that in the control group.
Increasing participation by National Health Service knowledge and library services staff in patient and public information: The role of Knowledge for Healthcare, 2014–2019
Authors: Carlyle Ruth , Goswami Louise , Robertson Sue
Published: August 2021

Background

The strategy lead for the National Health Service (NHS) knowledge and library services withn the NHS in England is held by Health Education England, working with 184 local NHS libraries based predominantly in hospitals

Objectives

As part of the strategic framework Knowkedge for Healthcare, the objective was to increase the role NHS knowledge and library services staff play in both indirect an direct support for evidence‐based information for patients and the public.

Methods

The study took an integrated multi‐level approach: encouraging local staff to share their expertise through Task and Finish groups, developing tools, offering training and reviewing levers available through Health Education England's quality assurance role.

Results

Between 2014 and 2019, the percentage of services supporting patient and public information increased from 27% to 78%. Qualitative evidence demonstrates a wide range of roles played by local services, working either indirectly or directly to ensure access to evidence‐based health information for patients and the public.

Discussion

The study shows the benefits of engaging people with local expertise in developing the skills and resources for system‐wide change.

Conclusion

Similar system‐wide change programmes should also consider an integrated approach, involving people, developing tools, offering training and drawing on incentive structures such as quality assurance measures.
In‐situ follicular neoplasia: a clinicopathological spectrum
Authors: Tamber Gurdip S , Chévarie‐Davis Myriam , Warner Margaret , Séguin Chantal , Caron Carole , Michel René P
Published: August 2021

Aims

In‐situ follicular neoplasia (ISFN) occurs in approximately 2–3% of reactive lymph nodes, and is currently set apart from ‘partial involvement by follicular lymphoma’ (PFL). ISFN can progress to overt lymphoma, but precise parameters with which to assess this risk and its association with related diseases remain incompletely understood. The aim of this study was to explore these parameters.

Methods and results

We reviewed 11 cases of ISFN and one of PFL between 2003 and 2018. Ten patients had ISFN in the lymph nodes, and one had ISFN in the spleen. Haematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemical stains were reviewed. Involvement of follicles by ISFN was scored with a three‐tier scheme. Of five patients with low ISFN scores, one had chronic myelomonocytic leukaemia, one had mycosis fungoides, and three were free of haematopoietic disease. Among them, four are alive and one was lost to follow‐up. Of the six ISFN patients with high scores, two had concurrent marginal zone lymphomas, one had concurrent diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL), one had Castleman‐like disease, one had progressive transformation of germinal centres with IgG4‐related disease, and one had no haematopoietic disease; all are alive except for one who died of concurrent DLBCL. The patient with PFL developed DLBCL 7 years after diagnosis.

Conclusions

On the basis of this limited series, we conclude that only cases with high scores are associated with an overt lymphoma or an abnormal lymphoid process, and that scoring may be a useful parameter with which to assess the risk of associated lymphoma, and deserves further study. We also performed a comprehensive review of the literature.
Continuous reference curves for common hematology markers in the CALIPER cohort of healthy children and adolescents on the Sysmex XN‐3000 system
Authors: Wilson Siobhan , Bohn Mary Kathryn , Hall Alexandra , Higgins Victoria , Abdelhaleem Mohamed , Adeli Khosrow
Published: August 2021

Introduction

Clinicians and healthcare professionals rely heavily on health‐associated standards, such as reference intervals (RIs), for appropriate laboratory test result interpretation. RIs are commonly partitioned into discrete age/sex bins based on statistical and/or clinical significance. In pediatric hematology, such partitioning does not adequately represent complex variation in analyte concentrations throughout maturation. The objective of this study was to establish continuous RIs for common hematological parameters in the healthy pediatric Canadian Laboratory Initiative on Pediatric Reference Intervals (CALIPER) cohort.

Methods

Data from healthy CALIPER children and adolescents (6 months‐<19 years) were used to generate continuous RIs (ie, 2.5th and 97.5th quantiles) for 19 hematological parameters. Continuous curves were statistically established with nonparametric quantile regressions. Flagging rate analysis was completed for the established continuous upper and lower reference limits and subsequently compared to previously published discrete CALIPER reference intervals for all parameters.

Results

Continuous RIs were established for 19 hematology parameters, where seven required sex‐specific reference curves. Based on flagging rate assessment, continuous RIs appear to more accurately estimate hematological reference limits over the pediatric age range, especially for analytes with complex age‐ and sex‐specific reference value patterns.

Conclusions

This is the first study to generate continuous RIs for a breadth of hematological markers in a healthy pediatric Canadian population. The increased power of continuous reference intervals to accurately estimate the complex relationship between hematological analyte concentration and age during a time of extensive growth and development is expected to improve laboratory test result interpretation and, subsequently, pediatric clinical decision‐making.
Association between xylem vasculature size and freezing survival in winter barley
Authors: Tamang Bishal G. , López José R. , McCoy Erik , Haaning Allison , Sallam Ahmad , Steffenson Brian J. , Muehlbauer Gary J. , Smith Kevin P. , Sadok Walid
Published: August 2021

Winter survival is a major yield‐limiting factor in winter barley grown in the Upper Midwest, where winter temperatures regularly reach −20°C or lower. Here, we tested the hypothesis that improved freezing survival is associated with smaller xylem vessel diameters as a mechanism that minimizes physical damage arising from intracellular ice formation, using leaf vasculature as a proxy trait. A second goal was to test whether such anatomical differences could be captured non‐destructively via gas exchange measurements. We first identified a group of 11 winter barley genotypes that exhibited differential field winter survival. We then conducted xylem diameter measurements on the first three leaves on all genotypes in two independent experiments based on 1,188 images, in addition to leaf gas exchange measurements. Freezing‐tolerant genotypes consistently exhibited significantly smaller metaxylem vessel diameters irrespective of leaf rank, and this difference was not influenced by hardening, indicating that this trait is heritable. Additionally, genotypes with smaller vasculature tended to exhibit lower stomatal conductance and transpiration rates. Our data indicate that genotypes with leaf xylem diameters smaller than 30 µm are prime donor parents and could be identified using gas exchange measurements, pointing to new phenotyping approaches to accelerate breeding for freezing survival.
Nitrogen stress inhibits root growth by regulating cell wall and hormone changes in cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.)
Authors: Chen Jing , Wang Zhanbiao , Liu Shaodong , Zhang Siping , Ge Changwei , Shen Qian , Ma Huijuan , Zhang Xiaomeng , Dong Helin , Zhao Xinhua , Liu Ruihua , Pang Chaoyou
Published: August 2021

Roots play an important role in the response to nitrogen stress in cotton. To better understand the molecular and physiological mechanisms underlying the adaptation of cotton roots to nitrogen stress, the responses of genes in roots to nitrogen changes were analysed by RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq), and morphological and physiological indicators were measured for verification. This study revealed that lack of nitrogen stress (LN, 0 mm) and excess nitrogen stress (HN, 8 mm) inhibited root growth. Moderate nitrogen (MN, 4 mm) resulted in the largest values for root length, projected area and volume. Nitrogen stress regulated root growth via two mechanisms. Nitrogen stress decreased root growth by regulating cell wall growth via alterations in the cell wall composition and the expression of cell wall‐related genes. Under LN and HN, the contents of cellular polysaccharide and glucan reached their lowest levels, whereas the contents of lignin and cellulose reached their highest levels. Lower expression of EXPA17, EXLB1 and PME3 as well as higher expression of EXLA1, WAT1, CESA1, CESA3, CAD6, COMT1, SAMS, LAC4 and NAC081 were obtained under nitrogen stress compared to MN, indicating that nitrogen stress increases lignin and cellulose synthesis and promotes root ageing. Nitrogen stress also decreased root growth by affecting the contents and regulation of salicylic acid (SA), jasmonic acid (JA) and abscisic acid (ABA). Nitrogen significantly upregulated the expression of PAD4, ALD1, WRKY70, WAKL10, MYB44, FER, LHY and BHLH112 as well as significantly downregulated that of TGA6, BT1, BT2 and PYL4. The changes in the expression of these genes under nitrogen stress resulted in significant increases in the SA, JA and ABA contents in roots. Our results suggested that nitrogen stress inhibits the growth of the cotton root system by affecting cell wall growth and hormone regulation. These results contribute to our understanding of how nitrogen regulates cotton root growth at the genetic and physiological levels, and they provide a theoretical basis for the efficient utilization of nitrogen resources.
Transplanting as an option to cope with abiotic stress in high‐altitude lowland rice production systems in East Africa
Authors: Abera Bayuh Belay , Senthilkumar Kalimuthu , Cotter Marc , Asch Folkard
Published: August 2021

The current practice of direct seeding in East‐African high‐altitude rice farming systems is constrained by water availability early in the season and low temperatures later in the season at the crop's critical reproductive stage. Thus, productivity is restricted as only short‐duration varieties can be grown due to the risk of crop failure. To fully exploit the yield potential of such rainfed systems, the best combination of crop establishment methods and climatic ‘best fit’ genotypes is required. In this study, nine rice genotypes were evaluated under direct seeding and transplanting in the 2016 and 2017 cropping seasons with the aim of identifying genotype by environment by management combinations best fitting the high‐altitude, rainfed rice production systems. On average across all genotypes, transplanting had a positive yield effect of 18% in 2016 and 23% in 2017. Regarding the phenological development, individual phenophases were not significantly affected by transplanting relative to direct seeding; however, vegetative development stages in transplanted rice tended to be about 15% longer than when direct seeded. Even though transplanting led to extended vegetative growth, the time in the nursery allowed the plants to escape the cold spell late in the season. The results from the current study provide options to adapt cropping calendars by combining genetic resources with targeted crop management, thus improving and stabilizing yields of rainfed lowland rice farming systems at high altitude.
Exploring perceptions of positive mental health in young adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Bailey Darcie‐Anne , Ford Laurie , Knight Victoria F.
Published: August 2021

Background

Despite having higher levels of mental health difficulties than the general population, limited research exists about how individuals with intellectual disabilities view mental health. Providing education about mental health literacy can contribute to maintaining positive mental health. Individuals who understand positive mental health are more likely to take steps to improve their mental health.

Aims

This study explores how young adults with intellectual disabilities conceptualise and define the concept of positive mental health.

Materials & Methods

Eight participants were interviewed using phenomenographic methods.

Results

Using phenomenography as the approach, four categories of description emerged from the analysis and included defining positive mental health as related to physical health, lack of clarity about positive mental health, positive qualities (emotions and actions) and mental health components.

Discussion

This study highlights the need for further research, exploring how to provide support through psychoeducation to individuals with intellectual disabilities about mental health.