bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Financial sector development, trade and income inequality: regional perspectives using evidence from macro and firm-specific data
Authors: Ashenafi Biruk Birhanu , Dong Yan
Published: November 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to firstly, find out does the relationship between finance, trade and income inequality provides matching evidence using the macro- and firm-level data? Secondly, whether a causal relationship from the firm-specific data can be established.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors employed a panel data fixed effect regression and two-stage least square (2sls) using key instruments. Their analysis is conducted based on a sub-sample analysis that emphasizes Latin America Region (LAR), Africa (AFR) and Asia by merging South Asia, East Asia and Pacific Regions (SEAR). These areas are characterized by an unequal society represented by a mounting gini index (Robilliard, 2020; De Rosa et al. 2020). Accordingly, the authors estimated a comparable model to unfold the impact of finance and trade. Besides, the authors exploited the interaction between their predictors with labor productivity and ownership structure to claim the difference between the results using the two data sets. The effort to establish a causal relationship from the combined firm-level data challenges the current literature that leans towards either macro or micro perspectives.

Findings

The result obtained from macro-level data shows that while financial development widens income inequality, the impact of trade on income inequality is negative. However, the estimation result from the combined firm-level data portrays that the proportion of investment financed by banks and trade widens income inequality. Given the contrasting result concerning trade, the authors test whether the firm-level evidence is causal following different identification strategies. The exercise shows that the correlation presented in the paper is causal. That challenges the current literature that falls short of providing firm-specific evidence.

Social implications

The authors adds to a growing body of literature on finance, trade and income inequality by paying due emphasis on firms from 2006 to 2020. The authors show the private sector development effect on income inequality by linking topics from the firm and country-level data.

Originality/value

The authors extend the macro-level discussion and contribute to the existing literature by offering firm-specific evidence on the relationship between finance, trade and income inequality.
Does perceived risk influence the intention to purchase second-hand clothing? A multigroup analysis of SHC consumers versus non-SHC consumers
Authors: Koay Kian Yeik , Cheah Chee Wei , Lom Hui Shan
Published: November 2022

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence of perceived risk, including financial, functional, aesthetic, sanitary, psychological and social risks, on the intention to purchase second-hand clothing (SHC) between SHC consumers and non-SHC consumers based on perceived risk theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 290 responses were collected, with 110 from SHC consumers and 180 from non-SHC consumers. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to validate the hypotheses. Additionally, a permutation test and multigroup analysis (MGA) were performed.

Findings

The findings indicate that different types of risk have varying effects on both SHC and non-SHC consumers’ intention to purchase SHC. In particular, financial, aesthetic and social risks are found to be significant predictors of purchase intention for SHC consumers. By contrast, sanitary and psychological risks are significant predictors of purchase intention for non-SHC consumers. Furthermore, the MGA results indicate a significant difference between SHC consumers and non-SHC consumers in the relationship between financial risk, social risk and purchase intention.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to examine the effects of different types of risk on the intention to purchase SHC in both SHC and non-SHC consumers. The findings will provide practitioners with practical insights for developing more effective strategies to target these two distinct consumer groups.
Building health care leadership capacity in a developing country via Talent Grooming Programme (TGP): experience sharing from the Ministry of Health Malaysia
Authors: Lee Kun Yun , Ismail Munirah , Bakit Pangie , Zakaria Norhaniza , Zakaria Nursyahda , Jinah Norehan , Kamil Delina , Ibrahim Nor Hayati
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Formal structured leadership training is increasingly incorporated as a regular fixture in developed nations to produce competent leaders to ensure the provision of quality patient care. However, most low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) rely on one-off external training opportunities for selected individuals as they lack the necessary resources to implement long-term training for a wider pool of potential health care leaders. This case study shares the establishment process of the Talent Grooming Programme for technical health care professionals (TGP), a three-year in-house leadership training programme specially targeted at potential health care leaders in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

This case study aims to share a comprehensive overview of the ideation, conceptualisation and implementation of TGP. The authors also outlined its impact from the individual and organisational perspectives, besides highlighting the lessons learned and recommendations for the way forward.

Findings

TGP set out to deliver experiential learning focusing on formal training, workplace experiences, practical reflection and mentoring by supervisors and other esteemed leaders to fulfil the five competency domains of leadership, organisational governance, communication and relationship, professional values and personal values. The successes and challenges in TGP programme delivery, post-training assessment, outcome evaluation and programme sustainability were outlined.

Practical implications

The authors’ experience in setting up TGP provided valuable learning points for other leadership development programme providers. As for any development programme, a continuous evaluation is vital to ensure its relevance and sustainability.

Originality/value

Certain aspects of TGP establishment can be referenced and modified to adapt to country-specific settings for others to develop similar leadership programme, especially those in LMICs.
Orientation estimation using vector observations with one or two components lost
Authors: Shi Gang , Shang Honglei
Published: November 2022

Purpose

Traditional algorithms require at least two complete vector observations to estimate orientation parameters. However, sensor faults and disturbances may cause some components of vector observations unavailable. This paper aims to propose algorithms to realize orientation estimation using vector observations with one or two components lost.

Design/methodology/approach

The fundamental of the proposed method is using norm equation and dot product equation to estimate the lost components, then, using an improved TRIAD to calculate attitude matrix. Specific algorithms for one and two lost components cases are constructed respectively, and the nonuniqueness of orientation estimation is analyzed from a geometric point of view. At last, experiments are performed to test the proposed algorithms.

Findings

The loss of components results in the loss of orientation information. The introduction of the norm equation and dot product equation can partially compensate for the loss of information. Experiment results and analysis show that the proposed algorithms can provide effective orientation estimation, and in vast majority of applications, the proposed algorithms can provide a unique solution in one lost component case and double solutions in two lost components case.

Originality/value

The proposed method addresses the problem of orientation estimation when one or two components of vector observations are unavailable. The introduction of the norm equation and dot product equation makes the calculation cost low, while the analyses from a geometric point of view makes the study of nonuniqueness more intuitive.
Rousseau and Emile: Learning language and teaching language
Authors: Weiler Gur Arye Adam
Published: November 2022

In Emile, Rousseau advances significant ideas about language, language learning and teaching: He posits a universal natural language that develops as the child matures; focuses on ‘private’ words invented by children, on the challenge facing children in their understanding of exceptions to general rules of the mother tongue and on recommended methods of teaching the mother tongue. The paper explores these notions, which feature at the end of Book I of Emile. It seeks to explain and interpret them as postulations regarding language, language learning and teaching and, moreover, to show how they relate to Rousseau's general principles of education.
Integrative analysis on the hitchhiking differential grasshopper, Melanoplus differentialis (Thomas, 1865) (Acrididae, Orthoptera)
Authors: Kang Tae Hwa , Kim Tae Woo , Choi Deuk‐Soo , Hong Ki‐Jeong , Kim Nam Hee , Kim Sang Woong
Published: November 2022

We conducted the monitoring of hitchhiker insect pests around the port area in Korea and reported the settlement of Melanoplus differentialis (Thomas, 1865) in Onsan Port, Ulsan, Korea. The occurrence pattern of the invasive species was determined using a line census method. Species identification was first performed with DNA barcoding, and then the DNA barcoded samples were morphologically re‐examined. Monitoring of the occurrence pattern revealed that the invasive populations of M. differentialis settled in a narrow artificial green area, and it occurred in large numbers (over 100 individuals per hour). Species identification of the invasive population using DNA barcoding indicated that the population showing high intraspecific divergence from null to 3.9% was difficult to identify as a separate species. However, in morphological re‐examination, the population was clearly identified as a single species, M. differentialis. In a haplotype analysis using DNA barcodes, the population included 45 haplotypes with polymorphism at 46 nucleotide sites. On the basis of these results, we considered that M. differentialis may have invaded into Onsan Port, Ulsan, Korea. Therefore, we provided the biological traits of the grasshopper for risk assessment and suggested the necessity of monitoring and controlling the dispersal of M. differentialis into the inlands of Korea in the early stages.
Rohingya refugees in the pandemic: Crisis and policy responses
Authors: Hossain Mallik Akram , Ullah A. K. M. Ahsan , Mohiuddin Md.
Published: November 2022

The purpose of this article is to demonstrate how a lack of policy attention has exacerbated the extreme circumstances faced by the Rohingya and how they can contribute to deterioration of their health, livelihood, and education, as well as their repatriation to their homeland. This article is based on data collected from field observations and interviews prior to and during the pandemic. This study confirms that the Rohingya refugee populations endure a higher level of suffering from lack of food security and livelihood, lack of basic amenities and financial resources, and accommodation is overcrowded compared with the pre‐pandemic period. The lack of a specific policy for the Rohingya has compounded the current situation in Bangladesh. This research is crucial for countries receiving refugees as well as the countries from which they flee and other actors.
How Economic Informality Constrains Demand for Programmatic Policy
Authors: Gottlieb Jessica
Published: November 2022

The majority of economic actors in the developing world participate in the informal sector, and yet little is known about the political implications of this constituency. I argue that, particularly in weak‐state democracies, economic informality constrains the rise of programmatic politics. An uncertain, undocumented, and irregular economic relationship with the state conveys signals about the state that affect citizens’ demand for and ability to coordinate on programmatic policy. Novel survey evidence from urban Senegal illustrates that greater irregularity is associated with weaker perceptions of tax compliance, lower expectations of government, and weaker coordination capacity and that informality is associated with weaker programmatic demands. Experimentally providing information about a salutary fiscal policy causes some informal sector members to positively update expectations about government performance and electoral coordination capacity. Field experiments in two other African democracies increase confidence in the proposition that informality inhibits the formation of a constituency for programmatic politics.
Computed tomographic colonography for symptomatic patients: the diminutive polyp dilemma
Authors: Hadjittofi Christopher , Sharma Vivek , Bhatt Dhaara , Rifai Tamam , Williams Stuart , Shaikh Irshad
Published: November 2022

Background

Computed tomographic colonography (CTC) is sensitive to polyp detection but is considered inaccurate for measuring diminutive polyps (<6 mm), with divergence between CTC and either colonoscopic or histopathological polyp measurements. Reporting diminutive polyps remains debatable. This study aims to compare outcomes of symptomatic patients with diminutive versus borderline polyps on CTC and to thereby examine the potential implication of reporting diminutive polyps.

Methods

A single‐centre retrospective study of symptomatic patients who underwent CTC from October 2016 through September 2018 was performed. After excluding CTC demonstrating cancer, no polyps, or polyps >6 mm, cases were categorized as either ‘diminutive’ (largest polyp <6 mm), or ‘borderline’ (largest polyp = 6 mm). The outcome measures were progression to endoscopy, surgery, procedure‐related morbidity, dysplasia and malignancy.

Results

A total of 308 cases (211 diminutive and 97 borderline) were analysed. The groups were similar (P > 0.05) in mean age (73 vs. 74 years), female proportion (57% vs. 49%), endoscopy‐related morbidity (6% vs. 7%) and CTC‐related morbidity (0 vs. 1%). Most patients (64%) underwent endoscopy, which was more common in the borderline vs. the diminutive group (76% vs. 59%; P = 0.003). Dysplasia was more common in the borderline vs. the diminutive group (69% vs. 48%; P = 0.003). No malignancies were diagnosed, and no patients proceeded to surgery.

Conclusion

Reporting diminutive polyps on CTC for symptomatic patients frequently leads to endoscopy, which often reveals dysplasia but rarely malignancy. This raises the question of how referring clinicians can best counsel and manage symptomatic patients with diminutive polyps on CTC, by considering the balance between utilitarianism and deontology.
Validation of a novel birth simulator for impacted fetal head at cesarean section: An observational simulation study
Authors: Cornthwaite Katie , Draycott Tim , Winter Cathy , Lenguerrand Erik , Hewitt Pauline , Bahl Rachna
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Impacted fetal head (IFH) is a challenging complication of cesarean section (CS) associated with significant morbidity. Training opportunities for IFH have been reported as inconsistent and inadequate. This study assessed the validity of a novel birth simulator for IFH at cesarean section.

Material and methods

Obstetricians and midwives collaborated with model‐making company, Limbs & Things (UK), to modify the original PROMPT Flex® simulator and develop a new “Enhanced CS Module” for IFH at cesarean section. Changes included addition of a retractable uterus and restricted pelvic inlet, and the fetal mannequin was modified to allow accurate limb articulation and flexion at the waist. Obstetricians and midwives from three maternity units in Southwest England were individually recorded, each undertaking three simulated scenarios of IFH at cesarean section. Obstetricians were asked to deliver the fetal head and midwives, to perform a vaginal push‐up. Participants completed a questionnaire on realism (face validity) and usefulness for training (content validity) with five‐point Likert scale responses. Construct validity was assessed by testing an a priori hypothesis that “experts” (consultant obstetricians with >7 years' experience) would be more likely to achieve delivery than “novices” (registrars with <7 years' experience). Performance variables were compared between groups using Chi‐square and Mann–Whitney U‐tests.

Results

In all, 105 simulated scenarios were undertaken by 35 obstetricians and midwives. A range of techniques were employed to deliver the IFH including change of hand, vaginal disimpaction and reverse breech extraction. Overall, 86% (30/35) described the model as fairly (4)/very realistic (5) (median = 4, interquartile range [IQR] = 4–5). The model was considered fairly (4)/very useful (5) for training by 97% (34/35; median = 5; IQR = 5–5). Experts delivered the fetal head in all simulations (36/36) and novices delivered the head in 76.9% (30/39) (p = 0.002). Experts delivered the fetal head 58% quicker than novices (median = 66.8 s, IQR = 53–86 vs median = 104 s, IQR = 67.7–137).

Conclusions

This novel birth trainer realistically simulates IFH at cesarean section and allows rehearsal of all disimpaction techniques. It was reported to be very useful for training and distinguishes between novice and expert obstetricians. Techniques for IFH are difficult to learn experientially. Simulation is likely to provide an effective and safe form of training.
High incidence of poor in‐hospital outcomes of term newborns with hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy admitted at a regional referral hospital in Dodoma, Tanzania
Authors: Mwatonoka Joyce F. , Jumanne Shakilu , Nyundo Azan , Kruger Carsten
Published: November 2022

Aim

Hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy (HIE) is one of the leading causes of neonatal deaths and neurological impairment with the highest impact in resource‐limited settings. This study aimed to determine the incidence of poor in‐hospital outcomes and related factors among newborns with HIE in Tanzania.

Methods

A prospective observational study in which 170 newborns with HIE (diagnosed using the Thompson clinical score) were followed from 1 September 2020 to 28 February 2021 at the neonatal ward of Dodoma Regional Referral Hospital in Dodoma, central Tanzania, until discharge or death. Clinical parameters were recorded. Multinomial logistic regression analysis was applied to determine factors associated with adverse outcomes.

Results

Out of 170 newborns, 44.7% (76/170) had poor outcomes (death 27.1% (46/170); neurological deficits 17.6% (30/170)). Severe HIE (Thompson score > 14) (p < 0.0001), history of aspiration (adjusted odds ratio (AOR) = 3.06, 95% confidence interval (CI) [1.170, 8.014], p = 0.0226) and 5th‐min APGAR of <7 (AOR = 2.88, 95% CI [1.133, 7.310], p = 0.0262) were associated with mortality. Severe HIE, delivery at other facilities (AOR = 3.106 CI [1.158, 8.332], p = 0.0244) and abnormal heart rate (<100 or ≥160 beats/min) on admission (AOR = 3.469 [1.200, 10.030], p = 0.0216) predicted neurological impairment at discharge.

Conclusion

Hypoxic–ischaemic encephalopathy is associated with a high incidence of poor outcomes in resource‐limited settings. To improve outcomes newborns with severe HIE, history of aspiration, referred from other facilities, 5th‐min APGAR score of <7 and abnormal heart rate need improved quality of neonatal care.
Limited genetic differentiation of Mycetomoellerius mikromelanos in Parque National Soberanía, Panama: Implications for queen dispersal
Authors: Cardenas Cody Raul , Mularo Andrew J. , Chavez Andreas S. , Adams Rachelle M. M.
Published: November 2022

The coevolutionary relationship between fungus‐growing ants (Formicidae: Attini: Attina) and their symbionts has been well studied in the Panamanian rain forests. To further understand the ecological context of these evolutionary relationships, we have examined the population‐genetic structure of the fungus‐growing ant species Mycetomoellerius mikromelanos Cardenas, Schultz, Adams 2021 in the Panama Canal Zone. We specifically investigated the presence of population structure, the significance of geographic features (i.e., creeks) limiting gene flow, and relatedness between ant colonies. To accomplish this, we genotyped 85 ant colonies from nine creeks across an approximately 30 km transect in Parque National Soberanía, Panama, using double‐digest restriction‐site‐associated DNA sequencing. We did not find distinct population structure using two genetic clustering methods; however, we did detect an effect of isolation by distance. Furthermore, related colonies were frequently detected on the same creek or neighboring creeks, and some at further geographic distances. Collectively, these findings demonstrate that new colonies tend to establish on natal creeks and occasionally on distant creeks following long‐distance dispersal events. We discuss how population‐genetic patterns reveal the natural history of M. mikromelanos in Parque National Soberanía and how these results fit into the context of fungus‐growing ant mutualisms.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Chronic loose stools following right‐sided hemicolectomy for colon cancer and the association with bile acid malabsorption and small intestinal bacterial overgrowth
Authors: Larsen Helene Mathilde , Krogh Klaus , Borre Mette , Gregersen Tine , Mejlby Hansen Mette , Arveschoug Anne K , Christensen Peter , Drewes Asbjørn Mohr , Emmertsen Katrine Jøssing , Laurberg Søren , Ladefoged Fassov Janne
Published: November 2022

Aim

Patients treated with right‐sided hemicolectomy for colon cancer may suffer from long‐term bowel dysfunction, including loose stools, urgency and faecal incontinence. The underlying causes are poorly understood. The aim of this case–control study was to investigate the aetiology of chronic loose stools among patients with right‐sided hemicolectomy curatively operated for cancer.

Method

Cases with chronic loose stools (Bristol stool type 6–7) after right‐sided hemicolectomy were compared with a control group of patients with right‐sided hemicolectomy without loose stools. All patients underwent a selenium‐75 homocholic acid taurine (SeHCAT) scan to diagnose bile acid malabsorption (BAM) and a glucose breath test to diagnose small intestinal bacterial overgrowth (SIBO). Gastrointestinal transit time (GITT) was assessed with radiopaque markers. In a subgroup of patients, fibroblast growth factor 19 (FGF19) was measured in fasting blood. SIBO was treated with antibiotics and BAM was treated with bile acid sequestrants.

Results

We included 45 cases and 19 controls. In the case group, 82% (n = 36) had BAM compared with 37% (n = 7) in the control group, p < 0.001. SIBO was diagnosed in 73% (n = 33) of cases with chronic loose stools and in 74% (n = 14) of controls, p = 0.977. No association between BAM and SIBO was observed. GITT was similar in cases and controls. No difference in median FGF19 was observed between cases and controls (p = 0.894), and no correlation was seen between FGF19 and SeHCAT retention (rs 0.20, p = 0.294). Bowel symptoms among cases were reduced after treatment.

Conclusion

BAM and SIBO are common in patients having undergone right‐sided hemicolectomy for cancer. Chronic loose stools were associated with BAM but not with SIBO.
Formation of CYP3A‐specific metabolites of ibrutinib in vitro is correlated with hepatic CYP3A activity and 4β‐hydroxycholesterol/cholesterol ratio
Authors: Lee Jonghwa , Fallon John K. , Smith Philip C. , Jackson Klarissa D.
Published: November 2022

Ibrutinib is an orally administered Bruton's tyrosine kinase inhibitor approved for the treatment of B‐cell malignancies, including chronic lymphocytic leukemia. Ibrutinib is metabolized primarily via oxidation by cytochrome P450 (CYP) 3A4/5 to M37 (the primary active metabolite), M34, and M25. The objectives of this study were to assess the relationship between formation of the major CYP3A‐specific ibrutinib metabolites in vitro and hepatic CYP3A activity and protein abundance, and to evaluate the utility of the endogenous CYP3A biomarker, plasma 4β‐hydroxycholesterol (4β‐HC) to cholesterol ratio, to predict ibrutinib metabolite formation in individual cadaveric donors with matching hepatocytes. Ibrutinib (5 μM) was incubated with single‐donor human liver microsomes (n = 20) and primary human hepatocytes (n = 15), and metabolites (M37, M34, and M25) were measured by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry analysis. CYP3A4/5 protein concentrations were measured by quantitative targeted absolute proteomics, and CYP3A activity was measured by midazolam 1′‐hydroxylation. Ibrutinib metabolite formation positively correlated with midazolam 1′‐hydroxylation in human liver microsomes and hepatocytes. Plasma 4β‐HC and cholesterol concentrations were measured in plasma samples obtained at the time of liver harvest from the same 15 donors with matching hepatocytes. Midazolam 1′‐hydroxylation in hepatocytes correlated with plasma 4β‐HC/cholesterol ratio. When an infant donor (1 year old) was excluded based on previous ontogeny studies, M37 and M25 formation correlated with plasma 4β‐HC/cholesterol ratio in the remaining 14 donors (Spearman correlation coefficients [r] 0.62 and 0.67, respectively). Collectively, these data indicate a positive association among formation of CYP3A‐specific ibrutinib metabolites in human hepatocytes, hepatic CYP3A activity, and plasma 4β‐HC/cholesterol ratio in the same non‐infant donors.
Level of agreement between three‐dimensional transthoracic and transesophageal echocardiography for mitral annulus evaluation: A feasibility and comparison study
Authors: Papadopoulos Konstantinos , Ikonomidis Ignatios , Özden Özge , Tzikas Apostolos , Arampatzis Chourmouzios A. , Vannan Manni A.
Published: November 2022

Introduction

Mitral annulus assessment is of utmost importance for the management of patients with mitral valve (MV) abnormalities, as it helps to determine the decision for surgical or transcatheter treatment. Three‐dimensional (3D) transesophageal echocardiography (TOE) has been the only reliable echocardiographic method for the evaluation of the mitral annulus by now. However, newer transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) 3D probes have enabled to provide accurate measurements as well and become a valuable tool when TOE is contraindicated. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of 3D TTE analysis of mitral annulus and the level of agreement with 3D TOE measurements.

Methods

A total of 121 consecutive patients were assessed with 3D TTE and TOE. All mitral annulus parameters were retrospectively analyzed with the dedicated 4D autoMVQ application. Bland‐Altman analysis and intraclass correlation coefficient were used for the comparison and agreement between the two methods. Half of our patients had normal mitral valves and served as control group, while the other half had various mitral valve pathologies.

Results

AutoMVQ analysis was not feasible in 11 out of 121 TTE examinations (91% feasibility) and in 4 out of 121 TOE examinations (96% feasibility). Mitral annular area and perimeter were slightly larger in TTE than those measured by TOE (12.7 ± 3.6 vs. 12.4 ± 3.2 cm2 for area and 12.7 ± 1.7 vs. 12.5 ± 1.6 cm for perimeter), however still showing strong correlation (r = .942 and r = .922, respectively). The majority of mitral valve measurements (anterior‐posterior, medial‐lateral and commissural diameter, aorto‐mitral angle and anterior leaflet length) were similar among the two methods with strong correlation (r > .80). Inter‐trigonal distance, posterior leaflet length and tenting height showed weaker agreement between TTE and TOE (r = .687, r = .687, r = .634, respectively). Mitral annular dimensions (by 3D area) were found to be significantly larger in patients with MV pathology (13.5 ± 3.5 vs. 11 ± 2.3 cm2), atrial fibrillation (14.4 ± 3 vs. 11.4 ± 2.8 cm2), left ventricular (13.8 ± 3.1 vs. 11.7 ± 3.1cm2) and left atrial dilatation (13 ± 3.3 vs. 10.6 ± 2.3cm2) compared to the individuals in the control group (p < .001 for all comparisons).

Conclusions

Assessment of the MV with 3D TTE with dedicated MVQ software is feasible and accurate, showing strong correlation and agreement with TOE measurements.
Estimating the spawning activity of fish species using nuclear and mitochondrial environmental DNA concentrations and their ratios
Authors: Wu Luhan , Wu Qianqian , Inagawa Takashi , Okitsu Jiro , Sakamoto Shogo , Minamoto Toshifumi
Published: November 2022

During spawning activity, fish release large amounts of sperm and eggs into the water, which has been assumed to cause an increase in environmental DNA (eDNA) levels and nuclear DNA/mitochondrial DNA ratios. To test whether these assumptions are valid and whether nuclear and mitochondrial eDNA analysis can be used to monitor the spawning activity of freshwater fish, we conducted field eDNA surveys and traditional surveys using common carp (Cyprinus carpio), largemouth bass (Micropterus salmoides) and bluegill sunfish (Lepomis macrochirus) as model species.

Fish spawning periods were estimated based on age, as estimated using the body lengths of juveniles collected in the Miharu reservoir in Fukushima, Japan. The results showed that the main spawning periods of largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish were from April to July and from July to August, respectively.

Field eDNA surveys were conducted in the Hebisawagawa front reservoir, which is connected to the Miharu reservoir. From March to August 2019 and 2020, weekly eDNA sampling was conducted at three sites, and daily sampling was conducted at six sites from 23 June to 3 July 2020. The eDNA concentrations of the nuclear internal transcribed spacer 1 (ITS1) and mitochondrial cytochrome B (CytB), as well as the ITS1/CytB ratio, were measured for each of the three fish in each water sample. Water temperature had a statistically significant effect on eDNA concentration, probably reflecting the relationship between water temperature and spawning.

We created generalised additive mixed models to estimate spawning activity periods based on weekly eDNA data. The estimated periods of spawning activity for common carp, largemouth bass and bluegill sunfish were March to May, May to July, and May to August, respectively. The estimated spawning periods coincided with known fish ecology or the results of traditional methods. This method also has been applied to daily eDNA samples, showing the feasibility of high‐resolution estimation of spawning activity.

For common carp and bluegill sunfish, we were able to estimate the spawning period using this method. Although the method is affected by biomass and the diffusion and degradation of eDNA, it has the potential to accurately estimating spawning activities. These then can be estimated without conducting laborious traditional surveys, facilitating the monitoring of reproduction by rare, invasive or important fishery species. Further research on the diffusion distance and degradation time of the eDNA concentration peak caused by fish spawning activity may improve the accuracy of monitoring.
Contrasting bottom‐up effects of warming ocean on two king penguin populations
Authors: Brisson‐Curadeau Émile , Elliott Kyle , Bost Charles‐André
Published: November 2022

Breeding success is often correlated with climate, but the underlying bottom‐up mechanisms remain elusive—particularly in marine environments. Consequently, conservation plans of many species often consider climate change as a unilateral threat, ignoring that even nearby populations can show contradicting trends with climate. Better understanding the relationship between climate and environment at different scales can help us interpret local differences in population trends, ultimately providing better tools to evaluate the global response of a species to threats such as global warming. We studied a growing king penguin population nesting at Kerguelen island (Southern Indian Ocean), hosting one of the largest colonies in the world. We used a unique dataset of foraging, breeding success, and climate data spanning over 25 years to examine the links between climate, marine environment, and breeding success at this colony. The results were then compared to the neighboring population of Crozet, which experienced the steepest decline for this species over the past few decades. At Crozet, penguins experienced lower breeding success in warmer years due to productive currents shifting away from the colony, affecting foraging behavior during chick rearing. At Kerguelen, while chick mass and survival experienced extreme variation from year to year, the annual variation was not associated with the position of the currents, which varied very little compared to the situation in Crozet. Rather than being affected by prey distribution shifts, we found evidence that chick provisioning in Kerguelen might be influenced by prey abundance, which seem to rather increase in warmer conditions. Furthermore, warmer air temperature in winter increased chick survival rate, likely due to reduced thermoregulation cost. Investigating the mechanisms between climate and fitness allowed us to predict two different fates for these populations regarding ongoing global warming.
PUBLIC DEBT BUBBLES IN HETEROGENEOUS AGENT MODELS WITH TAIL RISK
Authors: Kocherlakota Narayana R.
Published: November 2022

This article studies the public debt implications of an analytically tractable class of incomplete insurance macroeconomic models in which agents face a near‐zero probability of a highly adverse outcome. In generic models of this kind, there exists a public debt bubble, so that the real interest rate is perpetually below the growth rate (set to zero). There is no upper bound on the deficit level or debt level that is sustainable in a bubbly equilibrium. In a public debt bubble, ex ante steady‐state welfare is higher if the government chooses policies that give rise to a larger level of debt.
Effects of fatty acid‐blending heat‐moisture treatment on the physicochemical and in vitro digestion properties of sweet potato flour
Authors: Zhang Xiunan , Jia Yajuan , Sun Yangyang , Li Guanglei
Published: November 2022

In this paper, the effects of fatty acid‐blending heat‐moisture treatment (FA‐HMT) on the physicochemical and in vitro digestion properties of sweet potato flour (SPF) were studied based on the study on the physical modification of SPF by HMT. The results showed that the addition of linoleic acid (LOA)/Palmitic acid (PA) damaged the double helix structure of SPF, and reduced the long‐range order, relative crystallinity, anti‐aging, anti‐shearing properties and slow digestible starch (SDS) content of SPF. However, the FA‐HMT promoted the increase of RS5 (starch‐lipid complex) content in SPF, which had a certain positive effect on improving the intestinal environment. The results showed that when the addition ratio of LOA was 2%, the SDS content of SPF decreased slightly, and the SPF had better anti‐aging, anti‐shearing properties and higher RS5 content.
Brexit, uncertainty, and migration decisions
Authors: Auer Daniel , Tetlow Daniel
Published: November 2022

We leverage the British Brexit referendum decision to leave the European Union, to demonstrate how changes in uncertainty about a country's future socio‐political condition can impact migratory behaviour. Using official bilateral migration statistics, we report an excess increase in migration from the UK to the EU of approximately 16% post‐referendum, compared to movements between the remaining EU countries over the same period. In addition, we analyse in‐depth interviews conducted with UK migrants in Germany to show that uncertainty about future bilateral relations, a negative economic outlook, and perceptions of negative social consequences in the UK have been by far the most dominant drivers of migration in the post‐referendum period. We further corroborate the effect of changes in uncertainty on migration‐related behaviour with exceptional spikes in naturalisations, indicating that UK citizens living in other EU member states are actively taking decisions to mitigate the negative impact that Brexit is having on their livelihoods.
Economic and environmental implications of resource rent: A dual analysis of Venezuela's sustainability
Authors: Udemba Edmund Ntom , Yalçıntaş Selin
Published: November 2022

Venezuela is among the several countries of the world endowed with natural resources such as oil rent and others. The influence of these resources, which can be felt in both economic and environmental development, is capable of impacting sustainable development goals of any country rich in them. Considering the global climate goals, it is essential to investigate the impact of natural resource rent on its sustainable development goals. We applied Venezuelan country‐specific data of 1972–2014 for an insightful study of the country's sustainable development amidst high resource rent with regard to both economic and environmental performance. The principles of the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) and pollution haven and halo hypothesis (PHH) were considered to ascertain the pattern and effect of the economic growth and foreign direct investment (FDI) on Venezuelan environmental performance. Different methods such as the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) dynamics and bounds, structural break, and Granger causality test were applied for an accurate estimation and insightful analysis. From the ARDL estimations, we found an N‐shaped Kuznets curve, which counters the U‐shaped Kuznets, for the case of Venezuela. Both natural resources and FDI are found to impact positively on the environment, and this confirmed the pollution halo hypothesis for Venezuela. Fossil fuel energy source is found to impact negatively Venezuela's environment with positive relationship between energy use and CO2. From the Granger causality finding, a unidirectional Granger causality is found to transmit from FDI to environment, while bidirectional Granger causality is found to transmit between economic growth and environment. With the findings from both analyses, especially from the vector error correction model (VECM) Granger causality, a nexus is established among economic growth, environment, and FDI, which confirmed the pollution halo hypothesis.
Atrial fibrillation detection using insertable cardiac monitor after stroke: A real‐world cohort study
Authors: Noubiap Jean J. , Thomas Gijo , Middeldorp Melissa E. , Fitzgerald John L. , Harper Curtis , Sanders Prashanthan
Published: November 2022

Objective

This study aimed to report the real‐world atrial fibrillation (AF) diagnostic yield of the implantable cardiac monitor (ICM) in patients with stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA), and compare it to patients with an ICM for unexplained syncope.

Methods

We used patient data from device clinics across the United States of America with ICM remote monitoring via PaceMate™, implanted for stroke or TIA, and unexplained syncope. Patients with known AF or atrial flutter were excluded. The outcome was AF lasting ≥2 min, adjudicated by International Board of Heart Rhythm Examiners certified cardiac device specialists.

Results

We included a total of 2469 patients, 51.1% with stroke or TIA (mean age: 69.7 [SD: 12.2] years, 41.1% female) and 48.9% with syncope (mean age: 67.0 [SD: 17.1] years, 59.4% female). The cumulative AF detection rate in patients with stroke or TIA was 5.5%, 8.9%, and 14.0% at 12, 24, and 36 months, respectively. The median episode duration was 73 (interquartile range: 10–456) min, ranging from 2 min to 40.9 days, with 52.3%, 28.6%, and 4.4% of episodes lasting at least 1, 6, and 24 h, respectively. AF detection was increased by age (adjusted hazard ratio [for every 1‐year increase]: 1.024, 95% confidence interval: 1.008–1.040; p = .003), but was not influenced by sex (p = .089). For comparison, the cumulative detection rate at 12, 24, and 36 months were, respectively, 2.4%, 5.2%, and 7.4% in patients with syncope.

Conclusion

Patients with stroke or TIA have a higher rate of AF detection. However, this real‐world study shows significantly lower AF detection rates than what has been previously reported.
Carotid atherosclerosis: An independent risk factor for small fiber nerve dysfunction in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Guo Simin , Jing Yali , Li Chenxi , Zhu Dalong , Wang Weimin
Published: November 2022

Aims/Introduction

To explore whether carotid atherosclerosis is an independent risk factor for small fiber nerve dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Materials and Methods

A total of 247 type 2 diabetes patients from Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital received carotid ultrasonography and quantitative sensory testing, including cold and warm detection thresholds, and some patients received cold and heat pain detection thresholds, respectively. According to the results of quantitative sensory testing, patients were divided into normal small fiber nerve function (NSF) and small fiber nerve dysfunction (SFD) group. Meanwhile, patients were divided into the non‐carotid atherosclerosis group, carotid intimal thickening, unilateral carotid atherosclerosis and bilateral carotid atherosclerosis group. The correlation between carotid ultrasonography with quantitative sensory testing parameters was analyzed by SPSS 26.0.

Results

First, the incidence rate of SFD increased significantly in patients with carotid atherosclerosis (72.2%, P < 0.001) especially in bilateral carotid atherosclerosis (81.7%, P < 0.001). Second, compared with the NS group, the carotid intima‐media thickness in SFD was thicker (P = 0.018) and the size of atherosclerotic plaque was larger (P < 0.001). In addition, the cold detection threshold decreased (P < 0.001), whereas the warm detection threshold (P < 0.001) and heat pain detection threshold (P < 0.001) increased as aggravation of carotid atherosclerosis. In the correlation analysis, the size of atherosclerotic plaque presented a positive correlation with the warm detection threshold (r = 0.476, P < 0.001) and heat pain detection threshold (r = 0.213, P < 0.001), but presented a negative correlation with the cold detection threshold (r = −0.239, P < 0.01). Furthermore, carotid atherosclerosis (odds ratio 2.326, P = 0.017), especially bilateral carotid atherosclerosis (odds ratio 5.042, P = 0.001), was an independent risk factor for SFD (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

Carotid atherosclerosis was significantly associated with quantitative sensory testing and found to be an independent risk factor for small fiber nerve dysfunction in type 2 diabetes patients.
Behavioral symptoms, depression symptoms, and medication use in Michigan nursing home residents with dementia during COVID‐19
Authors: Coe Antoinette B. , Montoya Ana , Chang Chiang‐Hua , Park Pil S. , Bynum Julie P. W. , Shireman Theresa I. , Zhang Tingting , McCreedy Ellen M. , Gerlach Lauren B.
Published: November 2022

Background

The COVID‐19 pandemic significantly disrupted nursing home (NH) care, including visitation restrictions, reduced staffing levels, and changes in routine care. These challenges may have led to increased behavioral symptoms, depression symptoms, and central nervous system (CNS)‐active medication use among long‐stay NH residents with dementia.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective, cross‐sectional study including Michigan long‐stay (≥100 days) NH residents aged ≥65 with dementia based on Minimum Data Set (MDS) assessments from January 1, 2018 to June 30, 2021. Residents with schizophrenia, Tourette syndrome, or Huntington's disease were excluded. Outcomes were the monthly prevalence of behavioral symptoms (i.e., Agitated Reactive Behavior Scale ≥ 1), depression symptoms (i.e., Patient Health Questionnaire [PHQ]—9 ≥ 10, reflecting at least moderate depression), and CNS‐active medication use (e.g., antipsychotics). Demographic, clinical, and facility characteristics were included. Using an interrupted time series design, we compared outcomes over two periods: Period 1: January 1, 2018–February 28, 2020 (pre‐COVID‐19) and Period 2: March 1, 2020–June 30, 2021 (during COVID‐19).

Results

We included 37,427 Michigan long‐stay NH residents with dementia. The majority were female, 80 years or older, White, and resided in a for‐profit NH facility. The percent of NH residents with moderate depression symptoms increased during COVID‐19 compared to pre‐COVID‐19 (4.0% vs 2.9%, slope change [SC] = 0.03, p < 0.05). Antidepressant, antianxiety, antipsychotic and opioid use increased during COVID‐19 compared to pre‐COVID‐19 (SC = 0.41, p < 0.001, SC = 0.17, p < 0.001, SC = 0.07, p < 0.05, and SC = 0.24, p < 0.001, respectively). No significant changes in hypnotic use or behavioral symptoms were observed.

Conclusions

Michigan long‐stay NH residents with dementia had a higher prevalence of depression symptoms and CNS active‐medication use during the COVID‐19 pandemic than before. During periods of increased isolation, facility‐level policies to regularly assess depression symptoms and appropriate CNS‐active medication use are warranted.
Antiepileptic prescribing to persons living with dementia residing in nursing homes: A tale of two indications
Authors: Candon Molly , Strominger Julie , Gerlach Lauren B. , Maust Donovan T.
Published: November 2022

Background

Antiepileptics are commonly prescribed to nursing home residents with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) but there is little scientific support for their use in this population. It is unclear whether different antiepileptics are targeting different indications.

Methods

Using the Minimum Data Set and Medicare data, including Part D pharmacy claims, we constructed annual cohorts of residents with ADRD with long‐term stays in nursing homes from 2015 to 2019. For each year, we measured the proportion of residents with ADRD in nursing homes nationwide with at least one antiepileptic prescription. We also measured trends in valproic acid, gabapentin, antipsychotic, and opioid prescribing. Finally, we examined how prescribing rates differed based on whether residents with ADRD had disruptive behaviors or reported pain.

Results

Our study sample includes 973,074 persons living with ADRD who had a long‐term stay in a nursing home, which was defined as at least 3 months. The proportion of residents with ADRD with at least one antiepileptic prescription increased from 29.5% in 2015 to 31.3% in 2019, which was driven by increases in the rate of valproic acid and gabapentin prescribing. Conversely, antipsychotic prescribing rates declined from 32.1% to 27.9% and opioid prescribing rates declined from 39.8% to 31.7%. The risk of valproic acid prescribing was 10.9 percentage points higher among residents with ADRD with disruptive behaviors, while the risk of being prescribed gabapentin was 13.9 percentage points higher among residents with ADRD reporting pain.

Conclusions

Antiepileptic prescribing among nursing home residents with ADRD is increasing, while antipsychotic and opioid prescribing is declining. Examining antiepileptic prescribing to residents with ADRD who had disruptive behaviors and/or reported pain suggests that two of the most common antiepileptics, valproic acid and gabapentin, are being used in clinically distinct ways. Antiepileptic prescribing of questionable risk–benefit for dementia care warrants further scrutiny.