bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A critical examination of models of annual‐plant population dynamics and density‐dependent fecundity
Authors: Stouffer Daniel B.
Published: September 2022

Mathematical models serve many purposes in biology. Each and every model is a necessary simplification of reality, and, as simplifications, these models are also wrong by definition. And yet there are many ways to be wrong, and some of these are a much greater concern than others. For example, a paradoxical model‐based prediction may simply be puzzling whereas unphysical variables (e.g. negative amounts of time or temperatures below absolute zero) and nonbiological variables (e.g. negative abundances or negative feeding rates) should be avoided altogether.

Here I analyse a discrete‐time model of annual‐plant population dynamics and three phenomenological models for density‐dependent fecundity. These phenomenological models are generally interchanged solely on the basis of their statistical fit to data. On the other hand, I highlight ways in which their phenomenological basis hampers our ability to capture known aspects of annual‐plant biology.

I then demonstrate how to specify a more flexible, biologically appropriate model and illustrate this model's behaviour and interpretation in single‐species and multi‐species contexts. By constructing this generative model for annual‐plant population dynamics, I can also demonstrate how and why emergent phenomena, such as negative density dependence, emerge.

Although my focus is on a model applied to annual plants, the biological implications extend to modelling any species with a discrete life cycle and nonoverlapping generations. More broadly, my exploration here showcases that there are many more criteria with which we could, and arguably should, ground‐truth mathematical models across biology.
The impact of COVID‐19 on organ donation and transplantation in the UK: lessons learned from the first year of the pandemic
Authors: Plummer N. R. , Alcock H. , Madden S. , Brander J. , Manara A. , Harvey D. J. , Gardiner D. C.
Published: September 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic had a major impact on UK deceased organ donation and transplantation activity. We used national audit data from NHS Blood and Transplant to explore in detail the effects of the pandemic in comparison with 12 months pre‐pandemic, and to consider the impact of the mitigating strategies and challenges placed on ICU by ‘waves’ of patients with COVID‐19. Between 11 March 2020 and 10 March 2021, referrals to NHS Blood and Transplant of potential organ donors were initially inversely related to the number of people with COVID‐19 undergoing mechanical ventilation in intensive care (incident rate ratio (95%CI) per 1000 patients 0.93 (0.88–0.99), p = 0.018), although this pattern reversed during the second wave (additional incident rate ratio (95%CI) 1.12 (1.05–1.19), p < 0.001). Adjusted numbers of donors (incident rate ratio (95%CI) 0.71 (0.61–0.81), p < 0.001) and organs retrieved (incident rate ratio (95%CI) 0.89 (0.82–0.97), p = 0.007) were inversely dependent on COVID‐19 workload, though weekly numbers of transplants were unrelated (incident rate ratio (95%CI) 0.95 (0.86–1.04), p = 0.235). Non‐COVID‐19 mortality fell from 15,007 to 14,087 during the first wave (rate ratio (95%CI) 0.94 (0.92–0.96), p < 0.001) but climbed from 18,907 to 19,372 during the second wave (rate ratio (95%CI) 1.02 (1.00–1.05), p = 0.018). There were fewer in‐hospital deaths from cardiac arrest and intracranial catastrophes throughout (rate ratio (95%CI) 0.83 (0.81–0.86), p < 0.001 and rate ratio (95%CI) 0.88 (0.85–0.91), p < 0.001, respectively). There were overall fewer eligible donors (n = 4282) when compared with pre‐pandemic levels (n = 6038); OR (95%CI) 0.58 (0.51–0.66), p < 0.001. The total number of donations during the year fell from 1620 to 1140 (rate ratio (95%CI) 0.70 (0.65–0.76), p < 0.001), but the proportion of eligible donors who proceeded to donation (27%) was unchanged (OR (95%CI) 0.99 (0.91–1.08), p = 0.821). The reduction in donations and transplantation during the pandemic was multifactorial, but these data highlight the impact in the UK of a fall in eligible donors and an inverse relationship of referrals to COVID‐19 workload. Despite the challenges faced, the foundations underpinning the UK deceased organ donation programme remained strong.
The chance of spontaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure in preterm infants born before 32 weeks of gestation is high and continues to increase until 5 years of follow‐up
Authors: Nielsen Mette Rønn , Aldenryd Anna Elisabet , Hagstrøm Søren , Pedersen Lia Mendes , Brix Ninna
Published: September 2022

Aim

The primary aim was to estimate premature infants' spontaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure rate. Secondly, to identify criteria associated with the chance of spontaneous closure.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of 167 infants born before 32 weeks of gestation and diagnosed with a patent ductus arteriosus between 1 January 2008 and 31 December 2017. The spontaneous patent ductus arteriosus closure event rate was evaluated using the Kaplan–Meier estimator.

Results

The spontaneous closure rate within the first year of life was 66% (95% CI 58%–73%), increasing to 80% (95% CI 72%–86%) five years after birth. When including both spontaneous closure and closure following treatment, 96% (95% CI 86%–100%) closed within 5 years after birth. The chance of spontaneous closure was reduced in the case of a large patent ductus arteriosus: OR 0.16 (95% CI 0.05–0.52), left atrial enlargement: OR 0.16 (95% CI 0.05–0.51), and pulmonary hypertension: OR 0.23 (95% CI 0.07–0.74).

Conclusion

The chance of spontaneous closure in premature infants born between 23 and 32 weeks of gestation was high, and the incidence continued increasing until 5 years of follow‐up.
Mental health of siblings of children with physical illness or physical–mental comorbidity
Authors: Qureshi Saad A. , Reaume Shannon V. , Bedard Chloe , Ferro Mark A.
Published: September 2022

Objectives

This study examined the mental health of siblings of children with physical illness (PI), with or without co‐occurring mental illness.

Methods

The sample included children aged 2 to 16 years with a chronic PI and their aged‐matched healthy siblings (n = 169 dyads). Physical–mental comorbidity (PM) was present if children screened positive for ≥1 mental illness on the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview for Children and Adolescents. Parents completed the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) to measure child and sibling mental health.

Results

Within child–sibling dyads, siblings of children with PI had significantly worse mental health related to conduct problems (d = 0.31), peer problems (d = 0.18) and total difficulties (d = 0.20). Siblings of children with PM had significantly better mental health related to emotional problems (d = 0.42), hyperactivity/inattention (d = 0.23) and total difficulties (d = 0.32). Siblings of children with PI had similar mental health compared with child population norms used in the development of the SDQ. In contrast, siblings of children with PM had significantly worse mental health across all SDQ domains, with the exception of prosocial behaviour. After adjusting for parent psychopathology and family functioning, no statistically significant differences between siblings of children with PM versus siblings of children with PI were found.

Conclusions

Differences in mental health exist between children with PI or PM versus their healthy siblings. However, differences between siblings of children with PI versus siblings of children with PM can be explained by parental and family factors (e.g. marital status, education and income). Findings reinforce family‐centred care approaches to address the needs of children with PI or PM and their families.
The risk of subsequent surgery following bowel resection for Crohn's disease in a national cohort of 19 207 patients
Authors: King Dominic , Coupland Benjamin , Dosanjh Amandeep , Cole Andrew , Ward Stephen , Reulen Raoul C. , Adderley Nicola J. , Patel Prashant , Trudgill Nigel
Published: September 2022

Aim

Surgery is required for most patients with Crohn's disease (CD) and further surgery may be necessary if medical treatment fails to control disease activity. The aim of this study was to characterize the risk of, and factors associated with, further surgery following a first resection for Crohn's disease.

Methods

Hospital Episode Statistics from England were examined to identify patients with CD and a first recorded bowel resection between 2007 and 2016. Multivariable logistic regression was used to examine risk factors for further resectional surgery within 5 years. Prevalence‐adjusted surgical rates for index CD surgery over the study period were calculated.

Results

In total, 19 207 patients (median age 39 years, interquartile range 27–53 years; 55% women) with CD underwent a first recorded resection during the study period. 3141 (16%) underwent a further operation during the study period. The median time to further surgery was 2.4 (interquartile range 1.2–4.6) years. 3% of CD patients had further surgery within 1 year, 14% by 5 years and 23% by 10 years. Older age (≥58), index laparoscopic surgery and index elective surgery (adjusted OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.54–0.77; 0.77, 0.67–0.88; and 0.77, 0.69–0.85; respectively) were associated with a reduced risk of further surgery by 5 years. Prior surgery for perianal disease (1.60, 1.37–1.87), an extraintestinal manifestation of CD (1.51, 1.22–1.86) and index surgery in a high‐volume centre for CD surgery (1.20, 1.02–1.40) were associated with an increased risk of further surgery by 5 years. A 25% relative and 0.3% absolute reduction in prevalence‐adjusted index surgery rates for CD was observed over the study period.

Conclusions

Further surgery following an index operation is common in CD. This risk was particularly seen in patients with perianal disease, extraintestinal manifestations and those who underwent index surgery in a high‐volume centre.
High risk of complications after a “low risk” procedure: A national study of nursing home residents and older adults undergoing haemorrhoid surgery
Authors: Colley Alexis , Finlayson Emily , Zhao Shoujun , Boscardin John , Suskind Anne
Published: September 2022

Aim

To evaluate 30‐day complications and 1‐year mortality for older adults undergoing haemorrhoid surgery.

Method

This retrospective cohort study evaluated older adults (age 66+) undergoing haemorrhoid surgery using Medicare claims and the minimum data set (MDS). Long‐stay nursing home residents were identified, and propensity score matched to community‐dwelling older adults. Generalized estimating equation models were created to determine the adjusted relative risk of 30‐day complications, length of stay (LOS), and 1‐year mortality. Among nursing home residents, functional and cognitive status were evaluated using the MDS‐activities of daily living (ADL) score and the Brief Instrument of Mental Status. Faecal continence status was evaluated among a subset of nursing home residents.

Results

A total of 3664 subjects underwent haemorrhoid surgery and were included in the analyses. Nursing home residents were at significantly higher risk for 30‐day complications (52.3% vs. 32.9%, aRR 1.6 [95% CI: 1.5–1.7], p < 0.001), and 1‐year mortality (24.9% vs. 16.1%, aRR 1.6 [95% CI: 1.3–1.8], p < 0.001). Functional and mental status showed an inflection point of decline around the time of the procedure, which did not recover to the baseline trajectory in the following year. Additionally, a subset of nursing home residents demonstrated worsening faecal incontinence.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated high rates of 30‐day complications and 1‐year mortality among all older adults (yet significantly worse among nursing home residents). Ultimately, primary care providers and surgeons should carefully weigh the potential harms of haemorrhoid surgery in older adults living in a nursing home.
Sex and gender disparity in kidney transplantation: Historical and future perspectives
Authors: Salas Maria Aurora Posadas , Chua Elizabeth , Rossi Ana , Shah Silvi , Katz‐Greenberg Goni , Coscia Lisa , Sawinski Deirdre , Adey Deborah
Published: September 2022

Sex and gender disparity exist in various stages of kidney transplantation. Females were found to be less likely to be referred for kidney transplant, complete pre‐transplant evaluation, be placed on the waitlist, and receive a kidney transplant compared to their male counterparts. Interestingly, females comprise the majority of living kidney donors. This review explores the biological and psychosocial factors that contribute to sex and gender disparity in kidney transplantation and proposes ways to address the disparity.
Associations between corbiculid and unionid densities and distributions throughout a Laurentian Great Lakes catchment, Michigan, U.S.A.
Authors: Ring Nathan S. , Woolnough Daelyn A.
Published: September 2022

Some corbiculids (bivalve clams in the genus Corbicula) are invasive, having spread nearly worldwide and are thought to impact native unionid mussels. To determine the density and distributional associations of invasive corbiculids co‐occurring with native unionids, corbiculid clam and unionid mussel surveys were conducted at 122 sites in the Kalamazoo River catchment, Michigan, U.S.A.

Unionid densities ranged from 0 to 97 (x̅ = 7.45 ± 15.38 SD) live unionids found per person hour while corbiculid densities varied from 0 to 0.24 (0.012 ± 0.037) g/cm3. Corbiculid distributions were clumped (Moran's I test: Index = 0.281, Z = 2.228, p = 0.026) and highest along the main branch of the river. Unionid distributions, both individual species and at family level, were found to be randomly distributed throughout the catchment (Moran's I test: Index = 0.343 to −0.022, Z = 1.913 to −0.118, p value = 0.056 to 0.970).

Overall, unionid species richness, as well as the distribution of 13 unionid species, were negatively associated with corbiculid density. Although corbiculids can inhabit the same river reaches with unionids, unionid species richness and densities may be negatively influenced by the presence of corbiculids.

Although many species of unionids were negatively associated with corbiculid density, our research showed that they can co‐exist in the same river reaches. Overall, unionids were positively correlated with corbiculids throughout the catchment, probably because the two groups have similar habitat requirements. It is therefore important to consider unionids and corbiculids concurrently in conservation planning and the management of invasive corbiculids.
Clinical, economic, and health‐related quality of life burden associated with von Willebrand disease in adults and children: Systematic and targeted literature reviews
Authors: Castaman Giancarlo , Katsarou Olga , Jansen Nathalie , Santos Sandra , Escolar Ginés , Berntorp Erik
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Debilitating clinical complications in von Willebrand disease (VWD) can affect health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), increase healthcare costs and cause long‐lasting consequences. However, the magnitude of these burdens needs to be more fully explored.

Aim

To estimate the prevalence and burden of clinical complications, the impact on HRQoL and the economic burden associated with VWD.

Methods

Embase®, MEDLINE®, the Cochrane Library and conference proceedings were searched for studies on VWD evaluating clinical complications, HRQoL and cost and resource use.

Results

Among 16 studies assessing clinical complications in VWD, the most prevalent bleeding symptoms were menorrhagia (2%–95% [n = 7 studies]), epistaxis (12%–80% [n = 6]) and easy bruising (46%–65% [n = 2]). Among 17 studies evaluating HRQoL, the most common assessment scales were the generic SF‐36 (n = 8 studies) and the EQ‐5D (n = 2). Bleeding symptoms were associated with reduced QoL in six of seven studies, and of six studies evaluating treatment impact, four reported improvements in one or more HRQoL components. Among 25 studies on cost and resource use, key observations included higher post‐surgery healthcare costs in VWD versus non‐VWD patients (n = 1 study) and higher costs and resource use in VWD patients with bleeding complications versus those without (n = 1).

Conclusion

Although limited, available evidence suggests that VWD patients experience a high burden of clinical complications, reduced QoL and high healthcare costs. Haemarthrosis is more common in severe VWD than is often assumed, and bleeds (including haemarthrosis) can reduce QoL. Research efforts to improve QoL and other outcomes should be prioritized.
Oral symptoms and oral hygiene behaviours among patients with type 2 diabetes at a hospital in Japan: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Kudoh Rie , Shibayama Taiga , Hidaka Kikue
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Effective daily oral hygiene behaviour will prevent periodontal disease. This study aimed to examine the oral symptoms, oral hygiene behaviours and factors contributing to oral hygiene behaviours among patients with type 2 diabetes in a hospital in Japan.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted with 198 patients with type 2 diabetes. Oral symptoms were assessed using a dichotomous scale based on clinical guidelines. Oral hygiene behaviours were assessed based on the frequency of daily tooth brushing and the use of interdental cleaning aids. Chi‐square tests and logistic regression analyses were also performed.

Results

Overall, 71.2% of the participants had oral symptoms. Of the participants, 80.3% performed twice daily tooth brushing and 61.1% did not perform interdental cleaning on a daily basis. Logistic regression analysis revealed that tooth brushing behaviour was negatively associated with male patients (odds ratio [OR] = 0.45, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.25–0.80), difficulty with mastication (OR = 0.63, CI: 0.43–0.92) and tooth loss (OR = 0.68, CI: 0.46–1.00) and positively associated with periodontal disease (OR = 1.73, CI: 1.10–2.72). There were no significant variables related to the use of interdental cleaning aids.

Conclusions

Patients need to learn about the necessity for regular oral hygiene behaviours and the appropriate way. In particular, support for male patients, those who have difficulty with mastication, those who have experienced natural tooth loss, and those who have not been diagnosed with periodontal disease are needed.
Structural studies offer a framework for understanding the role of properdin in the alternative pathway and beyond
Authors: Pedersen Dennis Vestergaard , Lorentzen Josefine , Andersen Gregers Rom
Published: September 2022

Structures of alternative pathway proteins have offered a comprehensive structural basis for understanding the molecular mechanisms governing activation and regulation of the amplification pathway of the complement cascade. Although properdin (FP) is required in vivo to sustain a functional alternative pathway, structural studies have been lagging behind due to the extended structure and polydisperse nature of FP. We review recent progress with respect to structure determination of FP and its proconvertase/convertase complexes. These structures identify in detail regions in C3b, factor B and FP involved in their mutual interactions. Structures of FP oligomers obtained by integrative studies have shed light on how FP activity depends on its oligomerization state. The accumulated structural knowledge allows us to rationalize the effect of point mutations causing FP deficiency. The structural basis for FP inhibition by the tick CirpA proteins is reviewed and the potential of alphafold2 predictions for understanding the interaction of FP with other tick proteins and the NKp46 receptor on host immune cells is discussed. The accumulated structural knowledge forms a comprehensive basis for understanding molecular interactions involving FP, pathological conditions arising from low levels of FP, and the molecular strategies used by ticks to suppress the alternative pathway.
A novel household‐based patient outreach pilot program to boost late‐season influenza vaccination rates during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Fisher Lloyd , Loiacono Matthew M. , Payne Nick , Kelley Tina , Greenberg Michael , Charpentier Mary , Leblanc Candace , Sundaresan Devi , Bancroft Tim , Steffens Andrea , Paudel Misti
Published: September 2022

Background

The objective of this study was to test a novel household‐based approach to improve late‐season influenza vaccine uptake during the 2020–2021 season, using Epic's MyChart patient portal messages and/or interactive voice response telephone calls.

Methods

This study was a non‐blinded, quality improvement program using a block randomized design conducted among patients from Reliant Medical Group clinics residing in a traditional household (≥2 individuals clinically active in the Reliant system living at the same address). Households were randomized 1:1:1 into intervention arms: non‐tailored communication (messaging based on CDC's seasonal influenza vaccination campaign), tailored communication (comprehensive communication including reinforcement of the importance of influenza vaccination for high‐risk individuals), and standard‐of‐care control. Influenza vaccination during the program was captured via medical records, and the odds of vaccination among communication arms versus the control arm were assessed. A survey assessing influenza vaccination drivers was administered using MyChart.

Results

Influenza vaccination increased by 3.3% during the program period, and no significant differences in vaccination were observed in intervention arms relative to the control arm. Study operationalization faced substantial challenges related to the concurrent COVID‐19 pandemic. Compared with vaccinated survey respondents, unvaccinated respondents less frequently reported receiving a recommendation for influenza vaccination from their healthcare provider (15.8% vs. 42.3%, p < 0.001) or awareness that vaccination could protect themselves and higher risk contacts (82.3% vs. 92.6%, p < 0.001).

Conclusions

No significant effects of the interventions were observed. Survey results highlighted the importance of healthcare provider recommendations and the need for increased education around the benefits of vaccination.
Risks measurement in banking: A bibliometric and content analysis
Authors: Vashisht Shailja , Sarva Mahesh , Mundi Hardeep Singh
Published: September 2022

Banking risk has gained interest from researchers after the global financial crisis and implementation of Basel III norms. The present study performs a scientific bibliometric analysis of research on banking risk till data. Research has been conducted on five major types of banking risks – credit, operational, market, liquidity, and interest rate risk – from 967 publications on Scopus database from 1967 to 2021. The results suggest that the research in the area is dominated by the United States, the United Kingdom, and China. The publications in top journals in the domain of finance and economics are less, but the number has increased after 2008–2009. The paper also performs content analysis on top‐cited papers of five risk categories to find major themes and theoretical, practical, and methodological contributions. These findings suggest scope for more research in risks other than credit and operating risks, as existing research is centred around modelling risk and predicting default rates. Researchers in the area should focus on programming and machine learning tools. Regarding policy implications, the research identifies key publications in risk modelling, which can be used as the basis of improved supervisory mechanisms and internal controls.
Research review: Effects of parenting programs for children's conduct problems on children's emotional problems – a network meta‐analysis
Authors: Kjøbli John , Melendez‐Torres G.J. , Gardner Frances , Backhaus Sophia , Linnerud Siv , Leijten Patty
Published: September 2022

Background

Specific programs are often implemented for specific child mental health problems, while many children suffer from comorbid problems. Ideally, programs reduce a wider range of mental health problems. The present study tested whether parenting programs for children's conduct problems, and which individual and clusters of program elements, have additional effects on children's emotional problems.

Methods

We updated the search of a previous systematic review in 11 databases (e.g., PsycINFO and MEDLINE) and included studies published until July 2020 with keywords relating to ‘parenting’, ‘program’, and ‘child behavioral problems’. Also, we searched for recent trials in four trial registries and contacted protocol authors. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they used a randomized controlled trial to evaluate the effects of a parenting program for children aged 2–10 years which was based on social learning theory and included a measure of children's emotional problems postintervention.

Results

We identified 69 eligible trials (159 effect sizes; 6,240 families). Robust variance estimation showed that parenting programs had small significant parent‐reported additional effects on emotional problems immediately postintervention (Cohen's d = −0.14; 95% CI, −0.21, −0.07), but these effects faded over time. Teachers and children did not report significant effects. Additional effects on emotional problems were larger in samples with clinical baseline levels of such problems. No individual program elements predicted larger additional effects. Of the clusters of elements, combining behavior management and relationship enhancement elements was most likely to yield the strongest additional effects.

Conclusions

The additional effects on emotional problems of parenting programs designed to reduce conduct problems are limited, but some clusters of elements predict larger effects. Our findings may contribute to realistic expectations of the benefits of parenting programs for children's conduct problems and inform the development of programs with wider benefits across mental health problems.
Isolation of punicic acid from pomegranate seed oil by modified freeze crystallization and response surface methodology
Authors: Yang Ping , Yang Xiulan , Liu Hui , He Gang , Yao Qian , Yan Jun
Published: September 2022

A modified freeze crystallization method based on the different melting points of fatty acids was employed to isolate punicic acid (PA), a C18 polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA), from pomegranate seed oil (PSO). The purification process was optimized by response surface methodology. The complex effects of factors as well as their interactions on the purity, content, and yield of PA were simulated by the second‐order polynomial equations. It indicates that repeated freezing and thawing help to separate PA from the impurities with close melting points. Under the optimum conditions (solvent‐to‐material ratio of 12 ml/g, three freeze–thaw cycles, retaining the last 30% melting fraction), the content and purity of PA reached 950.00 ± 1.38 mg/g and 95.39 ± 0.66%, which were equivalent to 2.54 and 1.21 folds of original sample, respectively. The chemical structure of PA was confirmed by UV, IR, NMR, and GC–MS. PA exhibited a much stronger capacity in inhibiting various bacteria than PSO.

Novelty impact statement

Freeze crystallization combined with urea complex is a commonly used method to isolate PUFA, which has multiple beneficial effects on human health. However, the procedure is time‐consuming, low yield, and accompanied with potential toxic degradation products from urea. The study provides an efficient, safe, and convenient approach to separate fatty acids with different melting points and holds immerse prospective to be utilized in PUFA manufacture.
Recovery of phenolic compounds from purple onion peel using bio‐based solvents: Thermal degradation kinetics and color stability of anthocyanins
Authors: Santos Luan Gustavo , Martins Vilásia Guimarães
Published: September 2022

The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of bio‐based solvent (ethanol, water, and acetic acid) on the extraction of phenolic (TPC), anthocyanins (TAC), and flavonoids (TFC) from purple onion peel and also analyze the effects of storage temperature on the kinetics of anthocyanin degradation and color stability of the phenolic‐rich extract obtained. The purple onion extract obtained with 60% ethanol (E60E) showed, respectively, TPC, TAC, and TFC about 3.4, 2.5, and 4.45 times higher than the other solvents used. E60E showed higher antioxidant and antibacterial potential compared to other solvents. E60E was stored at 4, 25, and 38°C, a half‐life of 285, 48.81, and 21.80 days was obtained, respectively. The degradation of anthocyanins in E60E occurred by an endothermic and non‐spontaneous reaction with activation energy of 54.65 kJ mol−1, being strongly related to the thermal sensitivity of the phenolic compound.

Novelty impact statement

Purple onion peel is a food waste rich in bioactive compounds, being a low‐cost alternative for obtaining extracts with coloring and functional potential. The results of this study indicate that the purple onion peel is an excellent source for obtaining a phenolic‐rich extract with high antioxidant and antimicrobial activity. The anthocyanin, color, and stability index indicates that the extract can applied in several biosectors (e.g., pharmaceutical, cosmetic, and food industries).
Silence is gilded: Atrial fibrillation in the golden years
Authors: Blachman Nina L. , Skolnick Adam H.
Published: September 2022

This Editorial comments on the articles by Abu et al. in this issue.
Midwifery Autonomy and Employment Changes During the Early COVID‐19 Pandemic
Authors: Woeber Kate , Vanderlaan Jennifer , Long Maryann H. , Steinbach Sally , Dunn Jessica L. , Bouchard Mary Ellen
Published: September 2022

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic presented the midwifery workforce with challenges for maintaining access to high‐quality care and safety for patients and perinatal care providers. This study analyzed associations between different types of professional autonomy and changes in midwives’ employment and compensation during the early months of the pandemic.

Methods

An online survey distributed to midwifery practices in fall 2020 compared midwives’ employment and compensation in February 2020 and September 2020. Chi‐square analysis determined associations between those data and measures of midwives’ autonomy: state practice environment, midwifery practice ownership, intrapartum practice setting, and midwifery participation in practice decision‐making.

Results

Participants included lead midwives from 727 practices, representing 50 states and the District of Columbia. Full‐time equivalent (FTE) positions and number of full‐time midwives were stable for 77% of practices, part‐time employment for 83%, and salaries for 72%. Of the remaining practices, more practices lost FTE positions, full‐time positions, part‐time positions, and salary (18%, 15%, 9%, and 18%, respectively) than gained (11%, 8%, 8%, and 9%, respectively). Early retirements and furloughs were experienced by 9% of practices, and 18% lost benefits. However, midwifery practice ownership was significantly associated with increased salaries (20.3% vs 7.1%;P< .001) and decreased loss of benefits (7.8% vs 19.9%;P= .002) and furloughs (3.8 vs 10.1%;P= .04). Community‐based practice was significantly associated with increased FTE positions (19.0% vs 8.8%;P= .005), part‐time positions (17.4% vs 5.1%;P< .001), and salary (19.7% vs 7.0%;P< .001), as well as decreased loss of benefits (11.5% vs 21.1%;P= .02) and early retirement (1.4% vs 6.6%;P= .03). State practice environment and participation in practice decision‐making were not directly associated with employment and compensation changes.

Discussion

Policies should facilitate midwifery practice ownership and the expansion and integration of community birth settings for greater perinatal care workforce stability, greater flexibility to respond to disasters, and improved patient access to care and health outcomes.
Novel technique for rosacea treatment using optimal pulse technology: In vivo and clinical studies
Authors: Yuan Jiachen , Gao Yang , Pi Longquan , Li Zhouna , Nan Meilan , Jin Zhehu , Jin Chenglong
Published: September 2022

Background

Rosacea is a chronic inflammatory skin disease affecting the face, and the current treatment effect is not satisfactory. Based on the photomodulation of optimal pulse technology (OPT), we developed a novel treatment mode, namely, advanced OPT with low energy, three pulses, and long pulse width (AOPT‐LTL).

Aims

We aimed to explore the feasibility and underlying molecular mechanisms of AOPT‐LTL treatment in a rosacea‐like mouse model. Furthermore, we evaluated the safety and efficacy in patients with erythematotelangiectatic rosacea (ETR).

Materials and methods

Morphological, histological, and immunohistochemical analyses were used to investigate the efficacy and mechanisms of AOPT‐LTL treatment in the LL‐37‐induced rosacea‐like mouse model. Moreover, 23 patients with ETR were included and received different times of treatment at intervals of 2 weeks depending on the severity of their condition. The treatment effect was assessed by comparing clinical photographs at baseline, 1 week, and 3 months after treatment, combined with the red value, GFSS, and CEA scores.

Results

After the AOPT‐LTL treatment of the mice, we observed that the rosacea‐like phenotype, inflammatory cell infiltration, and vascular abnormalities were significantly ameliorated, and the expression of the core molecules of rosacea was significantly inhibited. In the clinical study, the AOPT‐LTL treatment exerted satisfactory therapeutic effects on erythema and flushing of ETR patients. No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

AOPT‐LTL is a safe and effective method for the treatment of ETR.
A fatal case of hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis associated with gestational psittacosis without symptoms of pneumonia
Authors: Yoshimura Michinobu , Shimizu Kanako , Nakura Yukiko , Kawahara Kazumi , Katano Harutaka , Motooka Daisuke , Takeuchi Makoto , Nagamune Kisaburo , Imamura Yoshiaki , Nakamura Shota , Yasukawa Kiyoshi , Hasegawa Hideki , Yoshida Yoshio , Yanagihara Itaru
Published: September 2022

Psittacosis is a zoonotic infection caused by Chlamydia psittaci. Most patients present with acute respiratory symptoms and systemic illness. When C. psittaci infects pregnant women, it causes severe clinical manifestations called gestational psittacosis. Here we report a case of gestational psittacosis. Our patient lacked respiratory symptoms, and pathological postmortem examinations revealed severe placentitis. Both DNA and immunohistochemical analyses were positive for C. psittaci from formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissues. The chlamydial DNA in the placenta was about 100 times more abundant than that in the lungs; therefore, the placenta rather than the lungs was the probable target of the C. psittaci infection during this pregnancy. We could not identify the source of infection. Gestational psittacosis should be considered in the differential diagnosis for fever of unknown origin during pregnancy, even in cases lacking respiratory symptoms.
Vascular and neuronal effects of general anesthesia on the brain: An fMRI study
Authors: Vedaei Faezeh , Alizadeh Mahdi , Tantawi Mohamed , Romo Victor , Mohamed Feroze B. , Wu Chengyuan
Published: September 2022

Background and Purpose

A number of functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) studies rely on application of anesthetic agents during scanning that can modulate and complicate interpretation of the measured hemodynamic blood oxygenation level‐dependent (BOLD) response. The purpose of the present study was to investigate the effect of general anesthesia on two main components of BOLD signal including neuronal activity and vascular response.

Methods

Breath‐holding (BH) fMRI was conducted in wakefulness and under anesthesia states in 9 patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy who needed to get scanned under anesthesia during laser interstitial thermal therapy. BOLD and BOLD cerebrovascular reactivity (BOLD‐CVR) maps were compared using t‐test between two states to assess the effect of anesthesia on neuronal activity and vascular factors (p < .05).

Results

Overall, our findings revealed an increase in BOLD‐CVR and decrease in BOLD response under anesthesia in several brain regions. The results proposed that the modulatory mechanism of anesthetics on neuronal and vascular components of BOLD signal may work in different ways.

Conclusion

This experiment for the first human study showed that anesthesia may play an important role in dissociation between neuronal and vascular responses contributed to hemodynamic BOLD signal using BH fMRI imaging that may assist the implication of general anesthesia and interpretation of outcomes in clinical setting.
Effect of standard‐dose and high‐dose pimobendan on select indices of renal and cardiac function in dogs with American College of Veterinary Internal Medicine stageB2myxomatous mitral valve disease
Authors: Kaplan Joanna L. , Visser Lance C. , Gunther‐Harrington Catherine T. , Ontiveros Eric S. , Wittenburg Luke A. , Palm Carrie A. , Stern Joshua A.
Published: September 2022

Background

Pimobendan might have favorable effects on renal function but this has not been well‐studied in dogs with myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD).

Objectives

Determine the effects of standard‐dose (SD_pimo) and high‐dose pimobendan (HD_pimo) on glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and cardiac size and function in dogs with preclinical MMVD.

Animals

Thirty nonazotemic dogs with stage B2 MMVD.

Methods

Prospective, randomized, double‐blinded, placebo‐controlled clinical study. Dogs had an echocardiographic examination, assessment of GFR (iohexol clearance), N‐terminal probrain natriuretic peptide (NT‐proBNP), and quality of life (QOL) score at baseline and 7 to 10 days after placebo (n = 6), SD_pimo 0.2 to 0.3 mg/kg q12 (n = 12), or HD_pimo 0.5 to 0.6 mg/kg q12h (n = 12).

Results

No significant differences in GFR or QOL scores were detected between groups (P.07). After HD_pimo, the mean [SD] percent change of NT_proBNP (−46.1 [20.2]%), left atrial volume (LAV; −27.1 [16.9]%), left ventricular end‐diastolic volume (EDV; −21.8 [15.0]%), and end‐systolic volume (ESV; −55.0 [20.7]%) were significantly different (P.004) from placebo (0.5 [19.9]%, 1.3 [15.6]%, −0.2 [8.2]%, −7.3 [35.6]%, respectively) but not the percent change after SD_pimo (−36.6 [16.1]%, −22.7 [14.9]%, −16.7 [12.5]%, −41.6 [14.8]%, respectively;P > .05). After SD_pimo, percent change of NT_proBNP, LAV, EDV, and ESV were significantly different from placebo (P < .05).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Results suggest that pimobendan (SD_pimo or HD_pimo) might not affect renal function in nonazotemic dogs with stage B2 MMVD. High‐dose pimobendan did not demonstrate advantages over SD_pimo within the constraints of our study.
How should we analyse the patriotism of the populist Left: A response to Josep Lobera and Juan Roch
Authors: Custodi Jacopo
Published: September 2022

In a recent article in this journal, Josep Lobera and Juan Roch formulate a thoughtful critique of scholarly works on the nationalist dimension of left‐wing populist discourses, and, in their analysis on Podemos, they engage especially with my works on the subject. They argue that not only do Podemos supporters express lower levels of national identification than the rest of the Spanish population, but also that, coherently with its electorate, Podemos avoids talking about issues related to Spanish identity and exhibits a non‐nationalist or even anti nationalist narrative. Contrarily, in my studies I found that Podemos has made extensive use of nationalist rhetoric. In this article I briefly respond to their critique, further clarifying the findings of my works and explaining why they do not match with the findings of Lobera and Roch. More broadly, I see this response as a chance to contribute to the further development of the recent and vibrant scholarly debate on the Left and its relation to nationalism.
Spatial phylogenetic and phenotypic patterns reveal ontogenetic shifts in ecological processes of plant community assembly
Authors: Perea Antonio J. , Wiegand Thorsten , Garrido José L. , Rey Pedro J. , Alcántara Julio M.
Published: September 2022

The analysis of the spatial phylogenetic and phenotypic structure of plant communities can provide insight into the underlying processes and interactions governing their assembly, and how these may change during plant ontogeny. We used point pattern analysis to find out if saplings and adult plants are surrounded by phylogenetically and phenotypically more similar or more dissimilar neighbours than expected by chance, and whether these associations change from the sapling to the adult stage. To this end, we combined information on the phylogenetic structure and eight phenotypic traits of 15 woody plant species in two Mediterranean mixed forests of southeastern Spain. At the community level, we found that the sapling bank at both sites did not show phylogenetic or phenotypic spatial patterns, but adults showed phylogenetic clustering (i.e. heterospecific neighbours were more similar than expected). At the species level, we found frequently repulsive patterns in the sapling bank of less abundant species (i.e. heterospecific sapling or adult neighbours were more dissimilar than expected) in both, phylogenetic and phenotypic analyses. For the adult stage, we found phylogenetic attraction (i.e. more similar neighbours) in just one species and phenotypic clustering in four species. The processes driving the assembly of the communities of saplings and adults leave detectable signals in the spatial phylogenetic and phenotypic structure of our two forest communities. Our findings reinforce the existence of ontogenetic shifts in the mechanisms involved in plant community assembly. Facilitation between phylogenetically distant and phenotypically divergent species favours the recruitment of less abundant species. However, processes acting later in the ontogeny ameliorate the competition between close relatives and determine the spatial structure of adult plants. Nevertheless, the role of phenotype in shaping the interactions between adult plants was context‐ and trait‐dependent. The use of spatial point pattern analysis allowed a nuanced interpretation of the phylogenetic and phenotypic structures of plant communities.
Early or late? The role of genotype phenology in determining wheat response to drought under future high atmospheric CO2 levels
Authors: Jiang Duo , Mulero Gabriel , Bonfil David J. , Helman David
Published: September 2022

The combination of a future rise in atmospheric carbon dioxide concentration ([CO2]) and drought will significantly impact wheat production and quality. Genotype phenology is likely to play an essential role in such an effect. Yet, its response to elevated [CO2] and drought has not been studied before. Here we conducted a temperature‐controlled glasshouse [CO2] enrichment experiment in which two wheat cultivars with differing maturity timings and life cycle lengths were grown under ambient (aCO2 approximately 400 μmol mol–1) and elevated (eCO2 approximately 550 μmol mol–1) [CO2]. The two cultivars, bred under dry and warm Mediterranean conditions, were well‐watered or exposed to drought at 40% pot holding capacity. We aimed to explore water × [CO2] × genotype interaction in terms of phenology, physiology, and agronomic trait response. Our results show that eCO2 had a significant effect on plants grown under drought. eCO2 boosted the booting stage of the late‐maturing genotype (cv. Ruta), thereby prolonging its booting‐to‐anthesis period by approximately 3 days (p < 0.05) while unaffecting the phenological timing of the early‐maturing genotype (cv. Zahir). The prolonged period resulted in a much higher carbon assimilation rate, particularly during pre‐anthesis (+87% for Ruta vs. +22% for Zahir under eCO2). Surprisingly, there was no eCO2 effect on transpiration rate and grain protein content in both cultivars and under both water conditions. The higher photosynthesis (and transpiration efficiency) of Ruta was not translated into higher aboveground biomass or grain yield, whereas both cultivars showed a similar increase of approximately 20% in these two traits at eCO2 under drought. Overall, Zahir, the cultivar that responded the least to eCO2, had a more efficient source‐to‐sink balance with a lower sink limitation than Ruta. The complex water × [CO2] × genotype interaction found in this study implies that future projections should account for multifactor interactive effects in modeling wheat response to future climate.
Introducing the Collective Action Recursive Empowerment (CARE) Model: HowSmall‐ScaleProtests Led toLarge‐ScaleCollective Action in Armenia's Velvet Revolution
Authors: Burrows Brooke , Uluğ Özden Melis , Khudoyan Knar , Leidner Bernhard
Published: September 2022

The current study examined the motivations and outcomes of the Armenian Velvet Revolution through the voice of 18 protesters with qualitative interviews, exploring their motivations for joining the collective action, their perceptions of its implementation, and resultant psychological changes. Participants distinguished between individual‐ and group‐level processes and bypassed social divisions through a shared belief in the value of “Rejecting Serzh” (i.e., opposing then President Serzh Sargsyan). Results also illustrated a recursive process of collective action supporting the development of a new theoretical CARE (collective action recursive empowerment) model. The model understands successful social change as a function of both individual and group identity informing collective‐action processes: Smaller acts of protest increase individual feelings of shared group identity and empowerment/efficacy beliefs, thus strengthening motivations for continued protest and making large‐scale collective action achievable. By linking together multiple time points of a collective‐action process in one recursive model, the current work maps out one specific case of successful collective action in recent history, which serves as a basis for broader theoretical generalization and future empirical research.
Electrophysiological measures of conflict and reward processing are associated with decisions to engage in physical effort
Authors: Umemoto Akina , Lin Hause , Holroyd Clay B.
Published: September 2022

Anterior cingulate cortex (ACC), a key brain region involved in cognitive control and decision making, is suggested to mediate effort‐ and value‐based decision making, but the specific role of ACC in this process remains debated. Here we used frontal midline theta (FMT) and the reward positivity (RewP) to examine ACC function in a value‐based decision making task requiring physical effort. We investigated whether (1) FMT power is sensitive to the difficulty of the decision or to selecting effortful actions, and (2) RewP is sensitive to the subjective value of reward outcomes as a function of effort investment. On each trial, participants chose to execute a low‐effort or a high‐effort behavior (that required squeezing a hand‐dynamometer) to obtain smaller or larger rewards, respectively, while their brainwaves were recorded. We replicated prior findings that tonic FMT increased over the course of the hour‐long task, which suggests increased application of control in the face of growing fatigue. RewP amplitude also increased following execution of high‐effort compared to low‐effort behavior, consistent with increased valuation of reward outcomes by ACC. Although neither phasic nor tonic FMT were associated with decision difficulty or effort selection per se, an exploratory analysis revealed that the interaction of phasic FMT and expected value of choice predicted effort choice. This interaction suggests that phasic FMT increases specifically under situations of decision difficulty when participants ultimately select a high‐effort choice. These results point to a unique role for ACC in motivating and persisting at effortful behavior when decision conflict is high.