bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Employability in higher education: a review of key stakeholders' perspectives
Authors: Cheng Ming , Adekola Olalekan , Albia JoClarisse , Cai Sanfa
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Employability is a key concept in higher education. Graduate employment rate is often used to assess the quality of university provision, despite that employability and employment are two different concepts. This paper will increase the understandings of graduate employability through interpreting its meaning and whose responsibility for graduate employability from the perspectives of four key stakeholders: higher education institutions, students, government and employers.

Design/methodology/approach

There are two stages to this literature review which was undertaken across bibliographic databases. The first stage builds a conceptual understanding of employability, relating to definition and how employability can be achieved and enhanced from the perspective of stakeholders. A structured search employing Boolean searches was conducted using a range of terms associated with key stakeholders. The second round of review drew on documentary analysis of official statements, declarations, documents, reports and position papers issued by key stakeholders in the UK, available online.

Findings

It reveals that responsibility for employability has been transferred by the UK government to higher education institutions, despite clear evidence that it needs to be shared by all the key stakeholders to be effective. In addition, there is a gap between employers' expectation for employability and the government's employability agenda.

Originality/value

This article highlights that solely using employment rate statistics as a key indicator for employability will encourage the practice of putting employers' needs above knowledge creation and the development of academic disciplines, with the consequence that higher education will become increasingly vocation driven.
Do psychological social and financial perceptions of post-retirement life and demography influence the retirement planning behaviour?
Authors: Murari Krishna , Shukla Shalini , Adhikari Bhupendra
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The aim of this study is to understand the effects of psychological social and financial perceptions of post-retirement life and demographic characteristics on retirement planning behaviour (RPB) of the employees from different occupational sectors.

Design/methodology/approach

The primary data from 400 employees in central government, state government and private sector is collected through a structured questionnaire. The questionnaire comprised of 43 items to measure social and financial perceptions and RPB along with demographic information. An exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and multiple linear regression (MLR) analysis are performed to find the significant variables of social and financial perceptions influencing the RPB.

Findings

The results of exploratory factor analysis revealed three principle components of social perceptions, four of financial perceptions and three of RPB. The role clarity, involvement, obligations, uncertainty and preparations have significant impact on RPB. This study found a moderate positive correlation between RPB and extracted factors of social and financial perceptions. The study confirms the significant effect of demographic variables such as age, marital status, occupational sector, income and education levels on RPB.

Originality/value

The study has number of implications for government and private sector organisations involved in offering the retirement planning solutions as well as to the employees. The stakeholders may take a note of the role of psychological social (role clarity and social involvement) and financial (financial obligations, uncertainty and preparation for post-retirement life) perceptions that influence RPB. The study also provides an insight to the policy makers for considering the demographic information such as age, education, marital status and income of the employees while designing/offering the choices of retirement plans to them. Further studies are recommended to validate the findings of this study in terms of testing the effect of psychological social and financial perceptions on retirement planning behaviour of the employees.
The development of legal framework for the management of World Heritage Sites in Oman: a case study on Bahla Oasis
Authors: Khalil Mohamed Ali Mohamed , Nasr Eman Hanye Mohamed
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The study aims to analyze the development of Omani heritage legislation against the UNESCO World Heritage Convention (WHC), 1972 and WHC Operational Guidelines (WHC-OGs) to predict the possible effects of the recent developments on the management of the World Heritage Site in Oman.

Design/methodology/approach

This study discusses the development of the heritage protection legislation in Sultanate of Oman since 1970; it analyses the Omani Cultural Heritage Law 35/2019 against the recommendations of the UNESCO WHC as well as the requirements of the World Heritage Operational Guidelines. Moreover, the research investigates the possible effects of the recent heritage legislation developments on the management of Bahla Fort and Oasis in Oman, which is the first Omani World Heritage Site and the only site with special management regulations.

Findings

The paper outlines the effects of both the Omani Cultural Heritage Law 35/2019 and the Special Management Regulations 81/2019 on the implementation of the Bahla Management Plan. Additionally, the research establishes how the customization of heritage legislation as a special heritage management regulation facilitates the implementation of national legislation to solve specific local problems.

Originality/value

The study establishes the significance of developing comprehensive legislation to protect and manage the rich Omani cultural heritage and World Heritage Sites in alignment with the WHC and the WHC-OGs.
A scalable mass customisation design process for 3D-printed respirator mask to combat COVID-19
Authors: Li Shiya , Waheed Usman , Bahshwan Mohanad , Wang Louis Zizhao , Kalossaka Livia Mariadaria , Choi Jiwoo , Kundrak Franciska , Lattas Alexandros , Ploumpis Stylianos , Zafeiriou Stefanos , Myant Connor William
Published: July 2021

Purpose

A three-dimensional (3D) printed custom-fit respirator mask has been proposed as a promising solution to alleviate mask-related injuries and supply shortages during COVID-19. However, creating a custom-fit computer-aided design (CAD) model for each mask is currently a manual process and thereby not scalable for a pandemic crisis. This paper aims to develop a novel design process to reduce overall design cost and time, thus enabling the mass customisation of 3D printed respirator masks.

Design/methodology/approach

Four data acquisition methods were used to collect 3D facial data from five volunteers. Geometric accuracy, equipment cost and acquisition time of each method were evaluated to identify the most suitable acquisition method for a pandemic crisis. Subsequently, a novel three-step design process was developed and scripted to generate respirator mask CAD models for each volunteer. Computational time was evaluated and geometric accuracy of the masks was evaluated via one-sided Hausdorff distance.

Findings

Respirator masks were successfully generated from all meshes, taking <2 min/mask for meshes of 50,000∼100,000 vertices and <4 min for meshes of ∼500,000 vertices. The average geometric accuracy of the mask ranged from 0.3 mm to 1.35 mm, depending on the acquisition method. The average geometric accuracy of mesh obtained from different acquisition methods ranged from 0.56 mm to 1.35 mm. A smartphone with a depth sensor was found to be the most appropriate acquisition method.

Originality/value

A novel and scalable mass customisation design process was presented, which can automatically generate CAD models of custom-fit respirator masks in a few minutes from a raw 3D facial mesh. Four acquisition methods, including the use of a statistical shape model, a smartphone with a depth sensor, a light stage and a structured light scanner were compared; one method was recommended for use in a pandemic crisis considering equipment cost, acquisition time and geometric accuracy.
Additive manufacturing of aluminium alloy 2024 by laser powder bed fusion: microstructural evolution, defects and mechanical properties
Authors: Kumar Manoj , Gibbons Gregory J. , Das Amitabha , Manna Indranil , Tanner David , Kotadia Hiren R.
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to investigate the microstructural evolution of high-strength 2024 Al alloy prepared by the laser powder bed fusion (L-PBF) additive manufacturing (AM) route. The high-strength wrought Al alloy has typically been unsuitable for AM due to its particular solidification characteristics such as hot cracking, porosity and columnar grain growth.

Design/methodology/approach

In this research work, samples were fabricated using L-PBF under various laser energy densities by varying laser power and scan speed. The microstructural features that developed during the solidification are correlated with operating laser parameters. In addition, finite element modelling (FEM) was performed to understand the experimentally observed results.

Findings

Microstructure evolution and defect formation have been assessed, quantified and correlated with operating laser parameters. Thermal behaviour of samples was predicted using FEM to support experimental observations. An optimised combination of intermediate laser power and scan speed produced the least defects. Higher energy density increased hot tearing along the columnar grain boundaries, while lower energy density promoted void formation. From the quantitative results, it is evident that with increasing energy density, both the top surface and side wall roughness initially reduced till a minimum and then increased. Hardness and compressive strength were found to decrease with increasing power density due to stress relaxation from hot tearing.

Originality/value

This research work examined how L-PBF processing conditions influence the microstructure, defects, surface roughness and mechanical properties. The results indicates that complete elimination of solidification cracks can be only achieved by combining process optimisation and possible grain refining strategies.
Immunochromatographic assay based on high‐affine monoclonal antibody for the detection of imidocarb in milk
Authors: Chen Linlin , Hu Xiaofei , Sun Yaning , Xing Yunrui , Zhang Gaiping
Published: July 2021

Imidocarb (IM) is an antiprotozoal agent, which is mainly used to treat babesiosis and piroplasmosis for animals. However, overdose or improbable utilization cause IM residues in animal origin products, which would be harmful to human health. Here, a monoclonal antibody (mAb) against IM with extremely sensitive and specific features has been successfully prepared from a novel immunogen synthesized by virtue of the active ester method. The concentration of half‐maximal inhibition (IC50) of the mAb was 0.074 ng/ml and the affinity constant was 4.58 × 1010 L/mol. On the basis of this condition, an immunochromatographic strip (ICS) is proposed that could be applied in milk samples to test IM rapidly. For the ICS, the visual detection limit (cut‐off value) was 5 ng/ml, IC50 was 0.4 ng/ml, the limit of detection (LOD) was 0.078 ng/ml, the linear detection scope was 0.117 to 1.37 ng/ml. The recovery rates ranged from 88.83% to 91.47% and coefficients of variation (CV) were in the spectrum of 7.31% to 9.43%. In general, the recommended test strip provided an exceedingly simple and reliable detection method for quickly testing the IM.

Practical Application

In our joint efforts, an extremely sensitive monoclonal antibody against imidocarb was obtained and a test strip for the rapid detection of imidocarb in milk was developed. The developed method could be applied to the field and provided great potential for analytical of imidocarb in other matrixes.
Fabrication and characterization of ethyl acetate–hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin inclusion complex
Authors: Zhu Guangyong , Xiao Zuobing , Zhu Guangxu
Published: July 2021

Flavors play crucial role in food industry. Ethyl acetate, as probably one of the most used of all flavor chemicals by volume, is used widely in many industries. However, ethyl acetate is not too stable and can be slowly decomposed by moisture. Furthermore, ethyl acetate is a volatile liquid insoluble in water and it does not last long enough. In order to solve these problems, hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin was used as wall material to encapsulate ethyl acetate in this work. The product was characterized by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and thermalgravimetric analysis (TGA). The results showed that the peaks at 1,744 and 1,056 cm–1 in the FTIR spectrum of ethyl acetate disappeared in the FTIR spectrum of ethyl acetate–hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin inclusion complex. After the encapsulation of ethyl acetate, the O‐H and C‐H stretching absorption of hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin changed. The TGA results showed that from 77°C to 292°C ethyl acetate is released from the ethyl acetate–hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin inclusion complex in temperatures far beyond ethyl acetate 77°C boiling point. This phenomenon confirmed that the lastingness and thermal stability of ethyl acetate can be improved by the formation of an inclusion complex. The loading capacity of ethyl acetate was 4.86 ± 0.08% and ethyl acetate:hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin stoichiometry is close to 1:1. The interaction of ethyl acetate and hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin was investigated using molecular mechanics calculation. The binding energy was calculated and the possible conformation of ethyl acetate–hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin inclusion complex was optimized to the minimum energy. The binding energy minimum is at the 0.44 × 10–10 m point and its value is −103.9 kJ/mol.

Practical Application

Encapsulation of ethyl acetate in hydroxypropyl‐β‐cyclodextrin is a possible way to protect ethyl acetate, improve its stability, water solubility, and may also enhance its lastingness.
Using target capture to address conservation challenges: Population‐level tracking of a globally‐traded herbal medicine
Authors: Manzanilla Vincent , Teixidor‐Toneu Irene , Martin Gary J. , Hollingsworth Peter M. , de Boer Hugo J. , Kool Anneleen
Published: July 2021

The promotion of responsible and sustainable trade in biological resources is widely proposed as one solution to mitigate current high levels of global biodiversity loss. Various molecular identification methods have been proposed as appropriate tools for monitoring global supply chains of commercialized animals and plants. Here, we demonstrate the efficacy of target capture genomic barcoding in identifying and establishing the geographic origin of samples traded as Anacyclus pyrethrum, a medicinal plant assessed as globally vulnerable in the IUCN Red List of Threatened Species. Samples collected from national and international supply chains were identified through target capture sequencing of 443 low‐copy nuclear makers and compared to results derived from genome skimming of plastome and DNA barcoding of standard plastid regions and ITS. Both target capture and genome skimming provided approximately 3.4 million reads per sample, but target capture largely outperformed standard plant barcodes and entire plastid genome sequences. We were able to discern the geographical origin of Anacyclus samples collected in Moroccan, Indian and Sri Lankan markets, differentiating between plant materials originally harvested from diverse populations in Algeria and Morocco. Dropping costs of analysing samples enables the potential of target capture to routinely identify commercialized plant species and determine their geographic origin. It promises to play an important role in monitoring and regulation of plant species in trade, supporting biodiversity conservation efforts, and in ensuring that plant products are unadulterated, contributing to consumer protection.
Just keep it simple? Benchmarking the accuracy of taxonomy assignment software in metabarcoding studies
Authors: Bik Holly M.
Published: July 2021

How do you put a name on an unknown piece of DNA? From microbes to mammals, high‐throughput metabarcoding studies provide a more objective view of natural communities, overcoming many of the inherent limitations of traditional field surveys and microscopy‐based observations (Deiner et al., 2017). Taxonomy assignment is one of the most critical aspects of any metabarcoding study, yet this important bioinformatics task is routinely overlooked. Biodiversity surveys and conservation efforts often depend on formal species inventories: the presence (or absence) of species, and the number of individuals reported across space and time. However, computational workflows applied in eukaryotic metabarcoding studies were originally developed for use with bacterial/archaeal data sets, where microbial researchers rely on one conserved locus (nuclear 16S rRNA) and have access to vast databases with good coverage across most prokaryotic lineages – a situation not mirrored in most multicellular taxa. In this issue of Molecular Ecology Resources, Hleap et al. (2021) carry out an extensive benchmarking exercise focused on taxonomy assignment strategies for eukaryotic metabarcoding studies utilizing the mitochondrial Cytochrome C oxidase I marker gene (COI). They assess the performance and accuracy of software tools representing diverse methodological approaches: from “simple” strategies based on sequence similarity and composition, to model‐based phylogenetic and probabilistic classification tools. Contrary to popular assumptions, less complex approaches (BLAST and the QIIME2 feature classifier) consistently outperformed more sophisticated mathematical algorithms and were highly accurate for assigning taxonomy at higher levels (e.g. family). Lower‐level assignments at the genus and species level still pose significant challenge for most existing algorithms, and sparse eukaryotic reference databases further limit software performance. This study illuminates current best practices for metabarcoding taxonomy assignments, and underscores the need for community‐driven efforts to expand taxonomic and geographic representation in reference DNA barcode databases.
A Benchmarking Study Evaluating Axial Spondyloarthritis Burden in Spain and Other European Countries. Results from the Spanish Atlas and the European Map of Axial Spondyloarthritis (EMAS) Studies
Authors: Garrido‐Cumbrera Marco , Gratacós Jordi , Collantes‐Estevez Eduardo , Zarco‐Montejo Pedro , Sastre Carlos , Christen Laura , Sanz‐Gómez Sergio , Correa‐Fernández José , Navarro‐Compán Victoria
Published: July 2021

Aim

To compare the burden of disease in Spanish patients with axial spondyloarthritis (axSpA) vs other European countries (OEC).

Methods

Data from 2846 unselected patients from the European Map of Axial Spondyloarthritis (EMAS) and the Atlas of Axial Spondyloarthritis in Spain (Atlas) were collected through online surveys. Comparative analysis was carried out between Spanish patients (2016) and patients from 12 OEC ( 2017‐2018). Socio‐demographic characteristics, life habits, and patient‐reported outcomes (Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index 0‐10, spinal stiffness 3‐12, functional limitation 0‐54, the 12‐Item General Health Questionnaire [GHQ‐12] for psychological distress 0‐12) were compared. Chi‐square and Mann‐Whitney tests were used for qualitative and quantitative variables respectively.

Results

680 (23.9%) Spanish axSpA patients were compared to 2166 axSpA patients (76.1%) from OEC. Compared to Spain, the OEC group had a higher percentage of females (64.1% vs 52.5%; P < .001) and university‐educated participants (51.7% vs 36.9%; P < .001). Spanish patients showed a greater diagnostic delay (8.5 ± 7.7 vs 7.2 ± 8.6 years; P < .001), visits to orthopedic specialists before diagnosis (56.9% vs 25.3%; P < .001), human leukocyte antigen‐B27 carriership (77.1% vs 70.1%; P = .003), disease activity (5.7 ± 2.0 vs 5.4 ± 2.0; P = .024), and higher unemployment rates (21.7% vs 9.2%; P < .001). Despite lower rates of diagnosed anxiety and depression, Spanish patients were at higher risk of psychological distress according to the GHQ‐12 (5.7 ± 4.5 vs 4.8 ± 4.0; P < .001).

Conclusion

Compared to European axSpA patients, Spanish patients experience a longer diagnostic delay and greater psychological distress. Being wrongly referred to orthopedic specialists and facing a more precarious labor scenario appear as possible causal factors, highlighting the need to increase the number of rheumatologists, the training of healthcare professionals, and improving axSpA patients' working conditions.
A microsensor‐based method for measuring respiration of individual nematodes
Authors: Maciute Adele , Holovachov Oleksandr , Berg Peter , Glud Ronnie N. , Broman Elias , Nascimento Francisco J. A. , Bonaglia Stefano
Published: July 2021

Meiofauna (invertebrates that pass through a 1‐mm mesh sieve, but are retained on a 40‐µm mesh) represent the most abundant and diverse animal group on Earth, but empirical evidence of their role in benthic respiration, production and carbon cycling across ecosystems is not well documented. Moreover, how meiofauna respond to changing oxygen conditions is poorly understood.

We further developed an incubation system, in which oxygen and temperature conditions are easily controlled and single meiofaunal nematode respiration is resolved in glass capillary tubes, using Clark‐type oxygen microsensor. We performed the respiration measurements after exposing nematodes to different ambient oxygen concentrations, which resulted in 3–60 µM O2 during hypoxic and 80–210 µM O2 during oxic incubations in close proximity to the respective nematodes.

Individual nematode respiration rates ranged from 0.02 to 1.30 nmol O2 ind.−1 day−1 and were 27% lower during hypoxic than oxic incubations. Rates derived from established allometric relations were on average fourfold higher than our direct measurements.

The presented method is suitable for single nematode respiration measurements and can be adapted to a wide range of experimental conditions. Therefore, it can be used to assess meiofauna contribution to ecosystem processes and investigate species‐specific responses to changing environmental conditions, for example, oxygen stress, increasing water temperature.
Where were you during the Queen’s visit? Using photographs to facilitate collective storytelling, resident identity and positive care relationships in aged care
Authors: King Tricia , Miller Evonne
Published: July 2021

Objectives

This paper explores the potential of photographs as a tool to facilitate storytelling, reminiscence and social connections for older residents living in residential aged care and caregiving staff.

Methods

Fourteen residents and three staff attended two sessions in which residents brought and shared personal photographs. Narrative enquiry was used to elicit individual and collective stories.

Results

Narrative analysis of residents’ selected photographs overwhelmingly showed a younger self (n = 6), highlighting relationships (n = 6) and achievements (n = 6). Sharing images with other residents and staff enhanced new connections and personal communications.

Conclusion

This research highlights the communicative value of photographs in aged care. Residents were able to reflect upon shared personal and global events—from the role of pets in their lives to public events such as the Queen's visit to Australia—and through discussion build a collective shared narrative. This enabled new connections and sharing of stories between staff and residents.
Outcomes of rib fractures in the geriatric population: A 5‐year retrospective, single‐institution, Australian study
Authors: Cooper Emma , Wake Elizabeth , Cho Charlie , Wullschleger Martin , Patel Bhavik
Published: July 2021

Background

Surgical rib fixation in the general population can decrease morbidity, including length of stay and ventilator days. Elderly rib fractures convey high rates of morbidity and mortality, and it is unclear whether this population benefits from operative management.

Methods

A single‐centre, retrospective study at a Level 1 Australasian trauma centre was conducted. Registry‐identified patients aged ≥70 years, admitted to hospital with blunt trauma‐induced rib fractures, were included. Outcome measures included demographics, pre‐morbid function, acute length of stay, intensive care unit admission, injury characteristics, management and complications.

Results

A total of 920 presentations were identified, with 295 meeting the inclusion criteria. Falls accounted for majority (n = 148/295, 50.2%), with a median Injury Severity Score of 10 (inter‐quartile range [IQR] 10–14). Severe chest trauma occurred overall in 80% (n = 243/294) and all operative patients (n = 15/15). Conservative management was used in 95% (n = 280/295). Patient‐controlled analgesia was common (n = 177/295, 60.0%) and regional techniques increased in the surgical approach (n = 12/15, 80.0%) compared with conservative approach (n = 71/280, 25.4%). Despite longer acute length of stay (12 days, IQR 9–15), operative management resulted in similar complications (26.7% vs. 30.4%) and no deaths. Operative intervention was significantly associated with increased number of fractures (p < 0.001), flail segment (p = 0.001) and higher chest Abbreviated Injury Score (p < 0.001); however, it was not significantly associated with age (p = 0.90), comorbidities (0.91) or anticoagulation (p = 0.51).

Conclusion

Surgical management of rib fractures in the elderly was performed without increased complications within this centre's multimodal approach. Standard indications for rib fixation may be applicable in the elderly population, whilst comorbidities, age and anticoagulation use alone may not be adequate reasons to withhold surgical rib fixation.
“Ok, gender! Where are you?!”: On the potential of catalytic validity in feminist geographies of everyday inequities
Authors: Coen Stephanie E.
Published: July 2021

This paper is a provocation and reflection on some of the methodological tensions and opportunities I encountered in trying to “get at” gender in my research on the everyday gendered geographies of physical activity. Situated in a feminist methodology, I designed my study on gender and gym environments to include multiple forms of data (interviews, drawings, journals) to foster a participant‐centred research process by offering diverse forms of expression. Yet, there were moments where my feminist commitment to recognise participants’ agency in how they articulated their gendered experiences was stymied by seeming self‐contradictions throughout their multi‐modal narratives, as well as by my researcher interpretations of gender. In this post‐mortem, I consider what incongruities in the ways some participants spoke about gender within and across data types tell us about gender as a concept. I illustrate how there is methodological opportunity in using multiple creative methods as a check for rigour in the form of “catalytic validity,” or awareness‐raising among research participants, which is consistent with socially transformative feminist geographical aims.
Pre‐salt rift morphology controls salt tectonics in the Campos Basin, offshore SE Brazil
Authors: do Amarante Francyne Bochi , Jackson Christopher Aiden‐Lee , Pichel Leonardo Muniz , Scherer Claiton Marlon dos Santos , Kuchle Juliano
Published: July 2021

Classic models of gravity‐driven salt tectonics commonly depict kinematically linked zones of overburden deformation, characterised by updip extension and downdip contraction, separated by a weakly deformed zone associated with downdip translation above a relatively smooth base‐salt surface. We use 2D and 3D seismic reflection and borehole data from the south‐central Campos Basin to show that these models fail to adequately capture the complex range of structural styles forming during salt‐detached gravity‐driven deformation above a rugose base‐salt surface. In the Campos Basin, the base‐salt is defined by broadly NE‐trending, margin‐parallel, generally seaward‐dipping ramps that have up to 2 km of structural relief. We define three domains of overburden deformation: an updip extensional domain, an intermediate multiphase domain and a downdip contractional domain. The multiphase domain is defined by large, partly fault‐bounded, ramp‐syncline basins, the stratigraphic record of which suggest ca. 28 km of seaward gravity‐driven translation of salt and its overburden since the end of the Albian. We also identify three main types of salt structures in the multiphase domain: (a) contractional anticlines that were subjected to later extension and normal faulting; (b) passive‐to‐active diapirs that were later extended and widened, and which are bound on their landward margins by landward‐dipping, salt‐detached normal faults and (c) reactive (extensional) diapirs that were subsequently squeezed. We argue that this multiphase deformation occurs because of basinward translation of salt and its overburden over complex base‐salt relief, consistent with the predictions of physical models and several other seismic reflection data‐based studies. Critically, these complex local strains overprint margin‐scale patterns of deformation.
Toward monitoring forest ecosystem integrity within the post‐2020 Global Biodiversity Framework
Authors: Hansen Andrew J. , Noble Benjamin P. , Veneros Jaris , East Alyson , Goetz Scott J. , Supples Christina , Watson James E. M. , Jantz Patrick A. , Pillay Rajeev , Jetz Walter , Ferrier Simon , Grantham Hedley S. , Evans Thomas D. , Ervin Jamison , Venter Oscar , Virnig Anne L. S.
Published: July 2021

Signatory countries to the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) are formulating goals and indicators through 2050 under the post‐2020 Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF). Among the goals is increasing the integrity of ecosystems. The CBD is now seeking input toward a quantifiable definition of integrity and methods to track it globally. Here, we offer a schema for using Earth observations (EO) to monitor and evaluate global forest ecosystem integrity (EI). Our approach builds on three topics: the concept of EI, the use of satellite‐based EO, and the use of “essential biodiversity variables” to monitor and report on it. Within this schema, EI is a measure of the structure, function, and composition of an ecosystem relative to the range of variation determined by climatic–geophysical environment. We use evaluation criteria to recommend eight potential indicators of EI that can be monitored around the globe using Earth Observations to support the efforts of nations to monitor and report progress to implement the post‐2020 GBF. If operationalized, this schema should help Parties to the CBD take action and report progress on achieving ecosystem commitments during this decade.
Clinical evaluation of large volume subcutaneous injection tissue effects, pain, and acceptability in healthy adults
Authors: Woodley Wendy D. , Morel Didier R. , Sutter Diane E. , Pettis Ronald J. , Bolick Natasha G.
Published: July 2021

Determining feasibility and tolerability of large volume viscous subcutaneous injection may enable optimized, intuitive delivery system design. A translational early feasibility clinical study examined large volume subcutaneous injection viability, tolerability, acceptability, tissue effects and depot location for ~1, 8, and 20 cP injections at volumes up to 10 ml in the abdomen and 5 ml in the thigh in 32 healthy adult subjects. A commercial syringe pump system delivered 192 randomized, constant rate (20 µl/s) injections (6/subject) with in‐line injection pressure captured versus time. Deposition location was qualified via ultrasound. Tissue effects and pain tolerability were monitored through 2 hours post‐injection with corresponding Likert acceptability questionnaires administered through 72 hours. All injection conditions were feasible and well‐tolerated with ≥79.3% favorable subject responses for injection site appearance and sensation immediately post‐injection, increasing to ≥96.8% at 24 hours. Mean subject pain measured via 100 mm visual analog scale increased at needle insertion (6.9 mm, SD 10.8), peaked during injection (26.9 mm, SD 21.7) and diminished within 10 minutes post‐removal (1.9 mm, SD 4.2). Immediate injection site wheal (90.9%) and erythema (92.6%) formation was observed with progressive although incomplete resolution through 2 hours (44.6% and 11.4% remaining, respectively). Wheal resolution occurred more rapidly at lower viscosities. Most subjects (64.5%) had no preference between abdomen and thigh. Correlations between tissue effects, injection pressure and pain were weak (Pearson’s rho ± 0–0.4). The large volume injections tested, 1–20 cP viscosities up to 10 ml in the abdomen and 5 ml in the thigh, are feasible with good subject acceptability and rapid resolution of tissue effects and pain.
Optimizing the use of technology to support people with diabetes: research recommendations from Diabetes UK’s 2019 diabetes and technology workshop
Authors: Wylie Thomas A. F. , Shah Chandrabala , Burgess Lucie , Robertson Elizabeth , Dupont David , Swindell Robin , Hovorka Roman , Murphy Helen R. , Heller Simon R.
Published: July 2021

Aims

To identify key gaps in the research evidence base that could help improve how technology supports people with diabetes, and provide recommendations to researchers and research funders on how best to address them.

Methods

A research workshop was conducted, bringing together research experts in diabetes, research experts in technology, people living with diabetes and healthcare professionals.

Results

The following key areas within this field were identified, and research recommendations for each were developed:

Matching the pace of research with that of technology development

Time in range as a measure

Health inequalities and high‐risk groups

How to train people to use technology most effectively

Impact of technology usage on mental health

Conclusions

This position statement outlines recommendations through which research could improve how technology is employed to care for and support people living with diabetes, and calls on the research community and funders to address them in future research programmes and strategies.
Clinical, microbiological and inflammatory markers of severe diabetic foot infections
Authors: Aragón‐Sánchez Javier , Víquez‐Molina Gerardo , López‐Valverde María Eugenia , Aragón‐Hernández Javier , Rojas‐Bonilla José María , Murillo‐Vargas Christian
Published: July 2021

Aims

In addition to systemic inflammatory response syndrome (SIRS), various clinical signs, microbiological findings and inflammatory markers could be associated with severe diabetic foot infections (DFI).

Methods

This study included a retrospective cohort of 245 patients with DFI treated at San Juan de Dios Hospital in San José de Costa Rica. Erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), C‐reactive protein (CRP), CRP/albumin ratio, peripheral blood leucocyte ratios and the Laboratory Risk Indicator for Necrotizing Fasciitis (LRINEC) scoring system were evaluated. Univariate analysis was carried out between moderate and severe infections. ROC curves were plotted. Cut‐off value of inflammatory markers for diagnosing severe infections was established and then dichotomized to be included in a logistic regression model. A score was designed based on its results.

Results

Skin necrosis (p < 0.01, OR = 8.5, 95% CI = 3.5–20.9), ESR > 94 mm/h (p < 0.01, OR = 2.5, 95% CI = 1.2–5.1), albumin < 2.8 g/dl (p = 0.04, OR = 2.0, 95% CI = 1.0–4.1) and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) > 4.52 (p < 0.01, OR = 3.3, 95% CI = 1.6–6.5) were found to be predictive of severe infections. Score >5 had a good diagnosis performance for classifying severe infections. Moderate infections with a score >5 had a worse prognosis than moderate ones.

Conclusions

We found an association of necrosis, serum albumin, ESR and NLR values with severe DFI. The presence of these predictive factors of severity in cases of moderate infections was significantly associated with a higher rate of amputations and recurrences, longer duration of antibiotic treatment and longer hospital stays. DFI could be classified as mild, moderate, severe without SIRS and severe.
Matrix metalloproteinase‐13 is fully activated by neutrophil elastase and inactivates its serpin inhibitor, alpha‐1 antitrypsin: Implications for osteoarthritis
Authors: Wilkinson David J. , Falconer Adrian M. D. , Wright Helen L. , Lin Hua , Yamamoto Kazuhiro , Cheung Kathleen , Charlton Sarah H. , Arques Maria del Carmen , Janciauskiene Sabina , Refaie Ramsay , Rankin Kenneth S. , Young David A. , Rowan Andrew D.
Published: July 2021

Matrix metalloproteinase‐13 (MMP‐13) is a uniquely important collagenase that promotes the irreversible destruction of cartilage collagen in osteoarthritis (OA). Collagenase activation is a key control point for cartilage breakdown to occur, yet our understanding of the proteinases involved in this process is limited. Neutrophil elastase (NE) is a well‐described proteoglycan‐degrading enzyme which is historically associated with inflammatory arthritis, but more recent evidence suggests a potential role in OA. In this study, we investigated the effect of neutrophil elastase on OA cartilage collagen destruction and collagenase activation. Neutrophil elastase induced significant collagen destruction from human OA cartilage ex vivo, in an MMP‐dependent manner. In vitro, neutrophil elastase directly and robustly activated pro‐MMP‐13, and N‐terminal sequencing identified cleavage close to the cysteine switch at 72MKKPR, ultimately resulting in the fully active form with the neo‐N terminus of 85YNVFP. Mole‐per‐mole, activation was more potent than by MMP‐3, a classical collagenase activator. Elastase was detectable in human OA synovial fluid and OA synovia which displayed histologically graded evidence of synovitis. Bioinformatic analyses demonstrated that, compared with other tissues, control cartilage exhibited remarkably high transcript levels of the major elastase inhibitor, (AAT) alpha‐1 antitrypsin (gene name SERPINA1), but these were reduced in OA. AAT was located predominantly in superficial cartilage zones, and staining enhanced in regions of cartilage damage. Finally, active MMP‐13 specifically inactivated AAT by removal of the serine proteinase cleavage/inhibition site. Taken together, this study identifies elastase as a novel activator of pro‐MMP‐13 that has relevance for cartilage collagen destruction in OA patients with synovitis.
Relationship between number of medications and incidence of falls or bone fracture in elderly patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation: Shinken database analysis
Authors: Fujisawa Tomoki , Arita Takuto , Suzuki Shinya , Yagi Naoharu , Otsuka Takayuki , Kishi Mikio , Kano Hiroto , Matsuno Shunsuke , Kato Yuko , Uejima Tokuhisa , Oikawa Yuji , Matsuhama Minoru , Iida Mitsuru , Yajima Junji , Yamashita Takeshi
Published: July 2021

Aim

Polypharmacy is known to be a risk factor for falls or bone fracture (F/F) in elderly patients. However, this relationship is not fully described in patients with non‐valvular atrial fibrillation (NVAF), for which F/F may lead to serious clinical outcomes, including major bleeding.

Methods

We analyzed 509 elderly (aged ≥75 years) patients with NVAF who had recently visited a hospital specializing in cardiology, of which 272 patients had paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF) and 237 had persistent/permanent atrial fibrillation (PeAF). Patients were divided into four groups according to the number of medications: ≤3, 4–6, 7–9, and ≥10. The relationship between the number of medications and incidence rate of F/F in AF patients was analyzed. In addition, this relationship was analyzed in patients with each AF type.

Results

Cumulative incidence of F/F at 3 years in the respective categories was 3.7%, 5.4%, 4.3% and 5.7% for PAF, and 5.2%, 7.5%, 7.8% and 25.0% for PeAF (log‐rank test, P = 0.930 and 0.003, respectively). In a multivariable model, patients with ≥10 medications showed a significantly higher risk for F/F compared with those with ≤3 medications as reference only in PeAF (adjusted hazard ratio 4.82, 95%CI 1.42–16.33), without significant interaction (P = 0.081).

Conclusions

Elderly NVAF patients using ≥10 medications showed a higher risk for F/F. In subgroup analysis, this association was observed only in patients with PeAF, although there was no significant interaction between number of medications and AF type. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2021; 21: 802–809.
Consumption of processed red meat and its impact on human health: A review
Authors: Libera Justyna , Iłowiecka Katarzyna , Stasiak Dariusz
Published: July 2021

Meat is an important component of the human diet, and the consumption of processed meat is high, despite the increasing popularity of the vegetarian model of nutrition. Both meat and meat product consumption contribute to delivering many vitamins and minerals, such as iron, zinc, selenium and vitamin B12; moreover, meat products are a significant source of high biological value protein, providing essential amino acids. Processed meat should be eaten in moderation. Excessive consumption of processed red meat (cured and smoked) carries the risk of developing new diseases or intensifying existing ones. This review aims to present scientific reports on the role and safety of the consumption of processed red meat in the diet of healthy individuals. The impact of meat consumption on the risk of cancer, cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, obesity, inflammatory bowel diseases, non‐alcoholic fatty liver and infertility was described.
Prophylactic incisional negative pressure wound therapy for gynaecologic malignancies
Authors: Martí Maria Teresa Climent , Fernandez‐Gonzalez Sergi , Martí Maria Dolores , Pla Maria Jesus , Barahona Marc , Ponce Jordi
Published: July 2021

Wound complications are an important cause of postoperative morbidity among patients with gynaecologic malignancies. We evaluated whether the placement of closed‐incisional negative pressure therapy (ciNPT) at the time of laparotomy for gynaecologic cancer surgery reduced wound complication rates. A retrospective cohort study with primary wound closure performed by a gynaecologic oncologist was carried out. We evaluated two cohorts of patients who underwent surgery in 2017 with standard closure and patients who underwent surgery in 2019 with the placement of prophylactic ciNPT. Postoperative outcomes were examined. A total of 143 patients were included, 85 (59.4%) vs 58 (40.6%) with standard closure and ciNPT, respectively. The total complication rate in our sample was 38.71%. The rate of surgical complications in patients treated with ciNPT was 6.9% compared with 31.8% (P = .000) in patients treated with standard closure. In the analysis of complications, a significant reduction in infections (17.1%), seromas (15.4%), and wound dehiscence (17.1%) were observed when ciNPT was applied. The median hospital stay was 8 vs 6 days in the standard closure vs ciNPT groups (P = .048). The use of the prophylactic ciNPT following a laparotomy may decrease wound complications and hospital stays in oncological patients. ciNPT could be considered as part of clinical practice in patients at high risk of wound complications, such as patients with gynaecological malignancies.
Ectopic pancreatic fat as a risk factor for hypertension in children and adolescents with nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Lee Eun Hye , Kim Ji Young , Yang Hye Ran
Published: July 2021

Although nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is known to be a risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, few studies have reported an association between ectopic fat deposition and metabolic complications, including hypertension, in children with NAFLD. The present study evaluated the risk factors for hypertension in children with NAFLD from the aspect of ectopic fat. This cross‐sectional retrospective study investigated 65 children with NAFLD (49 boys, mean age 13.0 ± 3.2 years, mean body mass index z‐score [BMI‐z] 2.5 ± 1.2), who underwent liver biopsy and magnetic resonance imaging‐based fat fraction measurement for ectopic hepatic and pancreatic fats, as well as anthropometry, blood pressure, laboratory tests, and body composition analysis. A logistic regression model was used to identify the risk factors for hypertension. Through a simple logistic regression analysis, age (OR 1.392), BMI‐z (OR 3.971), waist circumference‐to‐height ratio (OR 1.136), fat‐free mass index (OR 1.444), γ‐glutamyl transferase (OR 1.021), quantitative insulin sensitivity check index (OR 0.743), dyslipidemia (OR 5.357), and pancreatic fat fraction (PFF) (OR 1.205) were associated with hypertension. The optimal cut‐off of PFF to divide children with NAFLD into two groups with and without hypertension was 4.39% (area under the curve 0.754, p = .001, sensitivity 82.4%, specificity 73.9%). Multiple logistic regression analysis in the fully adjusted model revealed both BMI‐z (OR 4.912, 95% CI, 1.463–16.497) and PFF (OR 1.279, 95% CI, 1.007–1.624) were independent risk factors for hypertension. In conclusions, in addition to BMI‐z, ectopic pancreatic fat is an important risk factor for hypertension in children with NAFLD.
Meta‐Fish‐Lib: A generalised, dynamic DNA reference library pipeline for metabarcoding of fishes
Authors: Collins Rupert A. , Trauzzi Giulia , Maltby Katherine M. , Gibson Thomas I. , Ratcliffe Frances C. , Hallam Jane , Rainbird Sophie , Maclaine James , Henderson Peter A. , Sims David W. , Mariani Stefano , Genner Martin J.
Published: July 2021

The accuracy and reliability of DNA metabarcoding analyses depend on the breadth and quality of the reference libraries that underpin them. However, there are limited options available to obtain and curate the huge volumes of sequence data that are available on public repositories such as NCBI and BOLD. Here, we provide a pipeline to download, clean and annotate mitochondrial DNA sequence data for a given list of fish species. Features of this pipeline include (a) support for multiple metabarcode markers; (b) searches on species synonyms and taxonomic name validation; (c) phylogeny assisted quality control for identification and removal of misannotated sequences; (d) automatically generated coverage reports for each new GenBank release update; and (e) citable, versioned DOIs. As an example we provide a ready‐to‐use curated reference library for the marine and freshwater fishes of the U.K. To augment this reference library for environmental DNA metabarcoding specifically, we generated 241 new MiFish‐12S sequences for 88 U.K. marine species, and make available new primer sets useful for sequencing these. This brings the coverage of common U.K. species for the MiFish‐12S fragment to 93%, opening new avenues for scaling up fish metabarcoding across wide spatial gradients. The Meta‐Fish‐Lib reference library and pipeline is hosted at https://github.com/genner-lab/meta-fish-lib.