bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
How do corporate charitable and economic social responsibility practices help to improve the quality of work life for employees?
Authors: Pham Quy Minh , Dhir Mohit , Carrier Guillomet Thomas
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The study compares the corporate social responsibility (CSR) actions of two sectors of hospitality, tourism and travel (hotels and airlines) by researching what Six Sense hotels (a hotel brand) and Air Canada (an airline company) have been doing in order to respond to the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and how they apply the concept of CSR in their operational activities. The article also considers how these activities align with quality-of-life (QoL) dimensions and contemporary CSR dimensions.

Design/methodology/approach

Provides a detailed comparative, case study analysis of the reported CSR practices of companies in different sectors of the hospitality and tourism industry based on competitive strategy; environmental protection; internationalization of CSR; and transparency and accountability. The impact of the varied initiatives on quality of work life (QWL) and QoL is also considered together with implications for the circular economy (CE).

Findings

Analysis of the two case study examples suggests that these companies' activities are designed to promote sustainability. The findings also suggest that there is a positive relationship between CSR activities and QoL that the case study companies are aware of this and are doing all they can to sustain this relationship given the benefits it yields.

Originality/value

Uses case study analysis of Six Senses Hotels Resorts & Spas and Air Canada to conduct a comparative analysis of the reported CSR practices of companies in different tourism sectors based on competitive strategy; environmental protection; internationalization of CSR; and transparency and accountability.
Light verb production in healthy ageing and dementia
Authors: Kintz Stephen , Wright Heather Harris
Published: April 2022

Background

Light verbs are highly frequent and semantically impoverished words. It is currently not known whether light verb production in discourse tasks differs by age or for people with dementia of the Alzheimer's type (DAT).

Aims

The purpose of the current study was two‐fold: (1) to determine whether there is a relationship between age and the proportion of light verbs produce during a narrative discourse task; and (2) to determine whether people with DAT produce a different proportion of light verbs compared with neurotypical adults.

Methods & Procedures

A total of 469 neurotypical adults and 12 participants with DAT produced narratives from a wordless picture book.

Outcome & Results

The results indicated that light verb production increases as a function of age, even when controlling for education, and people with DAT produced a higher light verb–word ratio compared with neurotypical adults when matched for age and education.

Conclusion & Implication

Light verb use may increase as a function of age due to declines in retrieval ability. These declines are not only more pronounced in people with DAT, but also semantic knowledge deficits may contribute to a reliance on light verbs.

What this paper adds

Light verbs are typically some of the first verbs learned due to their simple semantic construction and high frequency. However, two things are unknown: (1) how light verbs changed across the adult lifespan; and (2) whether cognitive impairment changes light verb production. The study found that light verb production increases as a function of age, and that people with DAT used a higher ratio of light verbs to words in a narrative task compared with neurotypical adults. However, despite the findings, more research is needed to determine their clinical utility. Future research may wish to investigate whether light verbs (1) facilitate comprehension in older adults or (2) may be used in cognitive–linguistic assessments for cognitive impairments.
Fermentation of plant‐based dairy alternatives by lactic acid bacteria
Authors: Harper Aimee R. , Dobson Renwick C.J. , Morris Vanessa K. , Moggré Gert‐Jan
Published: April 2022

Ethical, environmental and health concerns around dairy products are driving a fast‐growing industry for plant‐based dairy alternatives, but undesirable flavours and textures in available products are limiting their uptake into the mainstream. The molecular processes initiated during fermentation by lactic acid bacteria in dairy products is well understood, such as proteolysis of caseins into peptides and amino acids, and the utilisation of carbohydrates to form lactic acid and exopolysaccharides. These processes are fundamental to developing the flavour and texture of fermented dairy products like cheese and yoghurt, yet how these processes work in plant‐based alternatives is poorly understood. With this knowledge, bespoke fermentative processes could be engineered for specific food qualities in plant‐based foods. This review will provide an overview of recent research that reveals how fermentation occurs in plant‐based milk, with a focus on how differences in plant proteins and carbohydrate structure affect how they undergo the fermentation process. The practical aspects of how this knowledge has been used to develop plant‐based cheeses and yoghurts is also discussed.
Postoperative bronchopleural fistula repair: Surgical outcomes and adverse factors for its success
Authors: Yang Young Ho , Park Seong Yong , Kim Ha Eun , Park Byung Jo , Lee Chang Young , Lee Jin Gu , Kim Dae Joon , Paik Hyo Chae
Published: April 2022

Background

The purpose of this study was to investigate the results of postoperative bronchopleural fistula repair and to identify adverse factors for its success.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed the surgical results of 39 patients who underwent surgical repair for postoperative bronchopleural fistula between January 2010 and June 2020. Success of bronchopleural fistula repair was defined as the visual closure of the bronchopleural fistula with the absence of an air leak, a recurrence of bronchopleural fistula and infection in the thoracic cavity.

Results

Twenty‐five (64.1%) bronchopleural fistulas occurred after pulmonary resection and 14 (35.9%) after lung transplantation. Bronchopleural fistula was diagnosed 19 days (median) and repaired 28 days (median) after the initial operation by primary closure in 27 (69.2%) patients, and by additional resection in 12 (30.8%) patients. The overall success rate was 59% (23/39) and the overall mortality was 56.4% (22/39). Multivariable analysis revealed that the patients who were supported by mechanical ventilation at the time of repair had significantly lower success rates than those without (15.4%, 2/13 vs. 80.8%, 21/26, respectively, p < 0.001). The omental flap group tended to have a better success rate than the muscle flap group (p = 0.07).

Conclusions

There was a high overall mortality rate after bronchopleural fistula repair and a low success rate. Mechanical ventilation at the time of bronchopleural fistula repair was significantly related to the failure of bronchopleural fistula repair.
Association between methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) C677T polymorphism and H‐type hypertension: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Liao Shengyu , Guo Shuxia , Ma Rulin , He Jia , Yan Yizhong , Zhang Xianghui , Wang Xinping , Cao Boyu , Guo Heng
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The polymorphism of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene C677T has been linked to H‐type hypertension. But the conclusion remained controversial. To elucidate this issue, we performed a comprehensive meta‐analysis to analyze the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and H‐type hypertension.

Materials and methods

The English and Chinese databases were systematically searched to identify relevant studies until November 2020. RevMan 5.3 and Stata 12.0 software were used for meta‐analysis. The odds ratio (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (95% CIs) were used to assess the relationship between the MTHFR C677T polymorphism and H‐type hypertension.

Results

A total of 14 studies involving 1769 cases and 1443 controls were included. The meta‐analysis results showed the association between MTHFR C677T polymorphism and H‐type hypertension with the homozygous codominant model (OR = 3.30, 95% CI = 1.94–5.60), heterozygous codominant model (OR = 2.34, 95% CI = 1.53–3.58), dominant model (OR = 1.79, 95% CI = 1.33–2.41), recessive model (OR = 2.70, 95% CI = 1.73–4.21),and the allelic model (OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.41–2.35). All p‐values were less than 0.05. Therefore, MTHFR C677T polymorphism has a positive correlation with the risk of H‐type hypertension. Among them, TT mutation has the greatest impact on the activity of this enzyme, which causes Hcy to rise and leads to H‐type hypertension.

Conclusion

In summary, our results provide sufficient data to support the hypothesis that the MTHFR C677T polymorphism is related to H‐type hypertension susceptibility.
Genital inflammatory status and the innate immune response to contraceptive initiation
Authors: Radzey Nina , Harryparsad Rushil , Meyer Bahiah , Chen Pai Lien , Gao Xiaoming , Morrison Charles , Taku Ongeziwe , Williamson Anna‐Lise , Mehou‐Loko Celia , Lefebvre d'Hellencourt Florence , Buck Gregory , Smit Jennifer , Strauss Jerome , Nanda Kavita , Ahmed Khatija , Beksinska Mags , Serrano Myrna , Bailey Veronique , Masson Lindi , Deese Jennifer
Published: April 2022

Problem

Data on the effects of contraceptives on female genital tract (FGT) immune mediators are inconsistent, possibly in part due to pre‐existing conditions that influence immune mediator changes in response to contraceptive initiation.

Methods

This study included 161 South African women randomised to injectable depot medroxyprogesterone acetate (DMPA‐IM), copper intrauterine device (IUD), or levonorgestrel (LNG) implant in the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) trial. We measured thirteen cytokines and antimicrobial peptides previously associated with HIV acquisition in vaginal swabs using Luminex and ELISA, before, and at 1 and 3 months after contraceptive initiation. Women were grouped according to an overall baseline inflammatory profile. We evaluated modification of the relationships between contraceptives and immune mediators by baseline inflammation, demographic, and clinical factors.

Results

Overall, LNG implant and copper IUD initiation were associated with increases in inflammatory cytokines, while no changes were observed following DMPA‐IM initiation. However, when stratifying by baseline inflammatory profile, women with low baseline inflammation in all groups experienced significant increases in inflammatory cytokines, while those with a high baseline inflammatory profile experienced no change or decreases in inflammatory cytokines.

Conclusion

We conclude that pre‐contraceptive initiation immune profile modifies the effect of contraceptives on the FGT innate immune response.
The human microbiome in disease and pathology
Authors: Manos Jim
Published: April 2022

This narrative review seeks to examine the relationships between bacterial microbiomes and infectious disease. This is achieved by detailing how different human host microbiomes develop and function, from the earliest infant acquisitions of maternal and environmental species through to the full development of microbiomes by adulthood. Communication between bacterial species or communities of species within and outside of the microbiome is a factor in both maintenance of homeostasis and management of threats from the external environment. Dysbiosis of this homeostasis is key to understanding the development of disease states. Several microbiomes and the microbiota within are used as prime examples of how changes in species composition, particularly at the phylum level, leads to such diverse conditions as inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), type 2 diabetes, psoriasis, Parkinson’s disease, reflux oesophagitis and others. The review examines spatial relationships between microbiomes to understand how dysbiosis in the gut microbiome in particular can influence diseases in distant host sites via routes such as the gut–lung, gut–skin and gut–brain axes. Microbiome interaction with host processes such as adaptive immunity is increasingly identified as critical to developing the capacity of the immune system to react to pathogens. Dysbiosis of essential bacteria involved in modification of host substrates such as bile acid components can result in development of Crohn’s disease, small intestine bacterial overgrowth, hepatic cancer and obesity. Interactions between microbiomes in distantly located sites are being increasingly being identified, resulting in a ‘whole of body’ effect by the combined host microbiome.
Executive functions, math anxiety and math performance in middle school students
Authors: Živković Marija , Pellizzoni Sandra , Mammarella Irene Cristina , Passolunghi Maria Chiara
Published: April 2022

Previous studies mainly investigated working memory (WM) and math anxiety (MA) leaving almost unexplored other aspects of executive functions (EFs) in middle school period. Filling the gap in the literature, the aims of this study were: (1) to better examine the relationship between MA and math performance, (2) to better examine the relationship between EFs and math performance and (3) to investigate the interplay between EFs and MA on math performances. This study confirmed a significant and negative relationship between MA and math performance, indicates a significant and positive relationship between visuospatial WM and math performance, shifting and math performance and highlight a scarcely investigated indirect influence of MA through the measure of shifting on math performance. Our findings shed further light on the mediating role of EFs between MA and math performance and underline some future perspectives.
Mucin‐fused myeloid‐derived growth factor (MYDGF164) exhibits a prolonged serum half‐life and alleviates fibrosis in chronic kidney disease
Authors: Du Pei , Wang Ting , Wang Hang , Yang Meijia , Yin Hongping
Published: April 2022

Background and Purpose

Although no effective therapy is available to stop or reverse CKD progression targeting its key feature, the loss of peritubular capillaries (PTCs) leading to interstitial fibrosis, myeloid‐derived growth factor (MYDGF) with tissue‐repairing activities enlightens its therapeutic potential for CKD. However, the extremely short circulatory lifetime (15 min) restricts its application.

Experimental Approach

We selected a tandem repeated (TR) region of human CD164 as a carrier to fuse with MYDGF and then investigated for biophysical and pharmacokinetic changes. The MYDGF164 bioactivities were validated in HUVECs and then assessed in HK‐2 cells. We also investigated its efficacy in unilateral ureteral obstruction (UUO)‐treated mice and in adenine‐induced CKD rats.

Key results

MYDGF164 was modified with sialoglycans, improving its resistance to serum proteases and increasing its hydrodynamic radius. The half‐life of MYDGF164 was significantly prolonged but retained its original cell proliferation, anti‐apoptosis, and tubulogenesis activities. It selectively stimulated the proliferation in endothelial and epithelial cells through phosphorylating MAPK1/3. MYDGF164 alleviated capillary rarefaction, hypoxia, renal fibrosis, and tubular atrophy in UUO mice and in adenine‐induced CKD rats. MYDGF164 restored renal function, with normalized creatinine and urea levels in adenine‐induced CKD rats. Histopathology and immunohistochemistry revealed that MYDGF164 protection was related to its cell‐proliferative, anti‐apoptosis, and angiogenesis activities.

Conclusions and Implications

This study is the first successful example of using a tandem repeated region of hCD164 as a cargo protein for the pharmacokinetic improvement of therapeutic proteins. Our findings highlight the potential of MYDGF164 in alleviating renal fibrosis in CKD.
Wage offers and on‐the‐job search
Authors: Potter Tristan , Bernhardt Dan
Published: April 2022

We study the wage‐setting problem of an employer with private information about demand for its product when workers can engage in costly on‐the‐job search. Employers understand that low wage offers may convey bad news that induces workers to search. The unique perfect sequential equilibrium wage strategy is characterized by: (i) pooling by intermediate‐revenue employers on a common wage that just deters search, (ii) discontinuously lower revealing offers by low‐revenue employers for whom the benefit of deterring search fails to warrant the required high pooling wage and (iii) high revealing offers by high‐revenue employers seeking to deter aggressive raiders.
Hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal axis activity and vascular function in healthy adults
Authors: Radhakutty Anjana , Lee Tien , Mangelsdorf Brenda L. , Drake Sophie M. , Burt Morton G.
Published: April 2022

Objective

The objective of this study is to assess the relationship between hypothalamic‐pituitary‐adrenal (HPA) axis activity, vascular function and insulin sensitivity in healthy adults.

Design

Open observational study.

Patients

Thirty healthy adults were studied at the Endocrine Research Unit, Repatriation General Hospital, Adelaide, SA, Australia.

Measurements

HPA activity was assessed from the serum cortisol 30 min after 1 µg ACTH1‐24 (Novartis Pharmaceuticals). Subjects with a cortisol below (n = 15) and above (n = 15) the median were categorized as low and high responders, respectively. Reactive hyperaemia index (RHI) was measured fasting to estimate endothelial function. Matsuda index was calculated from glucose and insulin concentrations collected fasting and 30 minutely for 2 h after a mixed meal (10 kcal/kg, 45% carbohydrate, 15% protein, 40% fat). The primary endpoint was the difference in RHI between low and high responders.

Results

There were no significant differences in age (61 ± 9 vs. 64 ± 7 years, p = .19), body mass index (BMI; 26 ± 3 vs. 24 ± 4 kg/m2, p = .25) and sex (p = .71) between low and high responders. High responders had a lower RHI (2.1 ± 0.2 vs. 2.6 ± 0.2, p = .04) than low responders and there was a negative association between RHI and peak cortisol post ACTH1‐24 (β = −.56, p < .01). There were no significant differences in Matsuda index (15.0 ± 2.4 vs. 22.7 ± 5.2, p = .19) between high and low responders.

Conclusion

In healthy adults, endothelial dysfunction is likely to contribute to the association between HPA hyperactivity and increased cardiovascular risk. As insulin sensitivity was not different in high and low responders, endothelial dysfunction is not primarily secondary to insulin resistance.
Proteomic analysis of the effects of caffeine in a neonatal rat model of hypoxic‐ischemic white matter damage
Authors: Yang Liu , Yu Xuefei , Zhang Yajun , Liu Na , Li Danni , Xue Xindong , Fu Jianhua
Published: April 2022

Aim

White matter damage (WMD) is the main cause of cerebral palsy and cognitive impairment in premature infants. Although caffeine has been shown to possess neuroprotective effects in neonatal rats with hypoxic‐ischemic WMD, the mechanisms underlying these protective effects are unclear. Herein, proteins modulated by caffeine in neonatal rats with hypoxic‐ischemic WMD were evaluated.

Methods

We identified differential proteins and performed functional enrichment analyses between the Sham, hypoxic‐ischemic WMD (HI), and HI+caffeine‐treated WMD (Caffeine) groups. Confirmed the changes and effect of proteins in animal models and determined cognitive impairment via water maze experiments.

Results

In paraventricular tissue, 47 differential proteins were identified between the Sham, HI, and Caffeine groups. Functional enrichment analyses showed that these proteins were related to myelination and axon formation. In particular, the myelin basic protein (MBP), proteolipid protein, myelin‐associated glycoprotein precursor, and sirtiun 2 (SIRT2) levels were reduced in the hypoxic‐ischemic WMD group, and this effect could be prevented by caffeine. Caffeine alleviated the hypoxic‐ischemic WMD‐induced cognitive impairment and improved MBP, synaptophysin, and postsynaptic density protein 95 protein levels after hypoxic‐ischemic WMD by preventing the HI‐induced downregulation of SIRT2; these effects were subsequently attenuated by the SIRT2 inhibitor AK‐7.

Conclusion

Caffeine may have clinical applications in the management of prophylactic hypoxic‐ischemic WMD; its effects may be mediated by proteins related to myelin development and synapse formation through SIRT2.
Cardiac remodeling in patients with centrifugal left ventricular assist devices assessed by serial echocardiography
Authors: Mulzer Johanna , Krastev Hristo , Hoermandinger Christoph , Merke Nicolas , Alhaloush Mazen , Schoenrath Felix , Falk Volkmar , Potapov Evgenij , Knierim Jan
Published: April 2022

Aim

The aim of the study was to characterize the remodeling process in a large cohort of patients supported with a centrifugal left ventricular assist device (cfLVAD) by standardized serial echocardiography.

Methods and Results

From 3/2018 all cfLVAD patients underwent transthoracic echocardiography at 6 and 12 months after implantation using a standardized protocol. A total of 512 echocardiograms were reviewed (216 preoperative, 156 at 6 months, 140 at 12 months). While on cfLVAD support, left ventricular (LV) diameter decreased (p < .001). LV ejection fraction (LVEF) and LV fractional area change improved (p < .001). Potential for cfLVAD explantation (as defined by an LVEF ≥45% and opening of the aortic valve [AV]) was seen in nine patients at 6 and 21 patients at 12 months. The tricuspid annular excursion decreased significantly, while the right ventricular fractional area change did not change. Tricuspid regurgitation (TR) and mitral regurgitation (MR) improved significantly during LVAD support. Opening of the AV was seen in >64% of the patients at 6 months and in 66% at 12 months. Moderate aortic regurgitation (AR) was rare with 3.8% at 6 months but increased with the duration of cfLVAD support (8.5% at 12 months). We found no significant difference in echocardiographic parameters between patients supported with a HeartWare HVAD™ or a HeartMate 3™ device.

Conclusion

LVAD therapy can lead to reverse LV remodeling and improvement of MR and TR. However, right ventricular function does not improve and prevalence of AR progressively increases during mechanical support.
The legacy effect of synthetic N fertiliser
Authors: Vonk Wytse J. , Hijbeek Renske , Glendining Margaret J. , Powlson David S. , Bhogal Anne , Merbach Ines , Silva João Vasco , Poffenbarger Hanna J. , Dhillon Jagman , Sieling Klaus , ten Berge Hein F. M.
Published: April 2022

Cumulative crop recovery of synthetic fertiliser nitrogen (N) over several cropping seasons (legacy effect) generally receives limited attention. The increment in crop N uptake after the first‐season uptake from fertiliser can be expressed as a fraction (∆RE) of the annual N application rate. This study aims to quantify ∆RE using data from nine long‐term experiments (LTEs). As such, ∆RE is the difference between first season (RE1st) and long‐term (RELT) recovery of synthetic fertiliser N. In this study, RE1st was assessed either by the 15N isotope method or by a zero‐N subplot freshly superimposed on a long‐term fertilised LTE treatment plot. RELT was calculated by comparing N uptake in the total aboveground crop biomass between a long‐term fertilised and long‐term control (zero‐N) treatment. Using a mixed linear effect model, the effects of climate, crop type, experiment duration, average N rate, and soil clay content on ∆RE were evaluated. Because the experimental setup required for the calculation of ∆RE is relatively rare, only nine suitable LTEs were found. Across these nine LTEs in Europe and North America, the mean ∆RE was 24.4% (±12.0%, 95% CI) of annual N application, with higher values for winter wheat than for maize. This result shows that fertiliser‐N retained in the soil and stubble may contribute substantially to crop N uptake in subsequent years. Our results suggest that an initial recovery of 43.8% (±11%, 95% CI) of N application may increase to around 66.0% (±15%, 95% CI) on average over time. Furthermore, we found that ∆RE was not clearly related to long‐term changes in topsoil total N stock. Our findings show that the—often used—first‐year recovery of synthetic fertiliser N application does not express the full effect of fertiliser application on crop nutrition. The fertiliser contribution to soil N supply should be accounted for when exploring future scenarios on N cycling, including crop N requirements and N balance schemes.

Highlights

Nine long‐term cereal experiments in Europe and USA were analysed for long‐term crop N recovery of synthetic N fertiliser.

On average, and with application rates between 34 and 269 kg N/ha, crop N recovery increased from 43.8% in the first season to 66.0% in the long term.

Delta recovery was larger for winter wheat than maize.

Observed increases in crop N uptake were not explained by proportionate increases in topsoil total N stock.
Seizure forecasting using minimally invasive, ultra‐long‐term subcutaneous electroencephalography: Individualized intrapatient models
Authors: Viana Pedro F. , Pal Attia Tal , Nasseri Mona , Duun‐Henriksen Jonas , Biondi Andrea , Winston Joel S. , Pavão Martins Isabel , Nurse Ewan S. , Dümpelmann Matthias , Schulze‐Bonhage Andreas , Freestone Dean R. , Kjaer Troels W. , Richardson Mark P. , Brinkmann Benjamin H.
Published: April 2022

Objective

One of the most disabling aspects of living with chronic epilepsy is the unpredictability of seizures. Cumulative research in the past decades has advanced our understanding of the dynamics of seizure risk. Technological advances have recently made it possible to record pertinent biological signals, including electroencephalogram (EEG), continuously. We aimed to assess whether patient‐specific seizure forecasting is possible using remote, minimally invasive ultra‐long‐term subcutaneous EEG.

Methods

We analyzed a two‐center cohort of ultra‐long‐term subcutaneous EEG recordings, including six patients with drug‐resistant focal epilepsy monitored for 46–230 days with median 18 h/day of recorded data, totaling >11 000 h of EEG. Total electrographic seizures identified by visual review ranged from 12 to 36 per patient. Three candidate subject‐specific long short‐term memory network deep learning classifiers were trained offline and pseudoprospectively on preictal (1 h before) and interictal (>1 day from seizures) EEG segments. Performance was assessed relative to a random predictor. Periodicity of the final forecasts was also investigated with autocorrelation.

Results

Depending on each architecture, significant forecasting performance was achieved in three to five of six patients, with overall mean area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of .65–.74. Significant forecasts showed sensitivity ranging from 64% to 80% and time in warning from 10.9% to 44.4%. Overall, the output of the forecasts closely followed patient‐specific circadian patterns of seizure occurrence.

Significance

This study demonstrates proof‐of‐principle for the possibility of subject‐specific seizure forecasting using a minimally invasive subcutaneous EEG device capable of ultra‐long‐term at‐home recordings. These results are encouraging for the development of a prospective seizure forecasting trial with minimally invasive EEG.
Parents in couple therapy: An intervention targeting marital and coparenting relationships
Authors: Darwiche Joëlle , Carneiro Claudio , Vaudan Christel , Imesch Camille , Eira Nunes Cindy , Favez Nicolas , de Roten Yves
Published: April 2022

This article describes the treatment framework and core therapeutic principles of the integrative brief systemic intervention (IBSI), a manualized six‐session intervention intended for parents seeking couple therapy. IBSI aims to work on the couple's presenting problem, considering its specific impact in the marital and coparenting domains. The basic premise of IBSI is to consider that, when working with couples who have children, therapeutic work on their coparenting alliance may be used as a lever, as both parents may be particularly motivated to improve their relationship for their children's benefit. Increasing the coparenting alliance may then facilitate work on deeper conflicts within the marital relationship. The core therapeutic principles of IBSI are: (1) joining with the couple as romantic partners and a coparenting team from the start of the therapeutic process; (2) supporting the parents in increasing their awareness regarding their children's behavior and emotional experiences when facing their parents’ conflicts; and (3) working on the spill‐ and cross‐over effects between marital and coparenting relationships (i.e., exploring how conflict or positivity spills over from one relationship to the other or crosses over from one partner to the other). Therapeutic work following these main therapeutic principles is expected to improve the quality of both relationships. A clinical case is provided to illustrate the core therapeutic principles of IBSI.
Summary and synthesis of research on what works in stepfamily childrearing
Authors: Ganong Lawrence , Coleman Marilyn , Sanner Caroline , Berkley Steven
Published: April 2022

Objective

The purposes of this review are (a) to summarize holistically and synthesize research evidence about “what works” regarding effective stepfamily childrearing (i.e., behaviors that contribute to children's physical, cognitive, and emotional well‐being) drawn from three research reviews and (b) explore implications of a “what works” approach in family scholarship.

Background

This project was designed to identify research‐based evidence about effective childrearing in stepfamilies by parents, stepparents, and coparents.

Method

We examined 2338 reports, identifying 119 studies yielding empirical evidence about “what works” in stepfamily childrearing.

Results

On the basis of our analyses of these studies, we find that researchers have found multiple ways children in stepfamilies are effectively raised and that stepchildren benefit when (a) parents exercise parental control by disciplining and setting rules early, (b) stepparents focus on bonding with stepchildren while parents work at maintaining close bonds with children, (c) stepparents and parents agree on rules and roles, (d) coparenting subsystems work collaboratively, and (e) parents and stepparents engage in activities to facilitate family cohesion.

Conclusions

Studies from a “what works” perspective were conducted using a variety of methods and approaches. Effective childrearing in stepfamilies benefits individual, relational, and stepfamily well‐being and effective stepfamily functioning. There are multiple ways to effectively raise children in stepfamilies. There are still things we do not know about childrearing in stepfamilies, however.

Implications

Focusing on resilience processes and positive family dynamics yield findings transferable to real‐world applications. Many areas of family scholarship would benefit from a what works perspective.
Age, growth and diet of crevalle jack (Caranx hippos) in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Jefferson Amanda E. , Jargowsky Matthew B. , Ivec Genevieve M. , Cooper Pearce T. , Carroll Jessica L. , Gervasi Carissa L. , Rehage Jennifer S. , Mareska John F. , Powers Sean P. , Drymon J. Marcus
Published: April 2022

The goals of this study were to generate baseline population dynamics parameters for Gulf of Mexico crevalle jack Caranx hippos and examine the foraging habits of Mississippi and Alabama crevalle jack. Specimens were collected from Mississippi, Alabama and Florida, and age was estimated from sagittal otoliths. Stomachs from some specimens were retained for dietary analyses. Age classes spanned 0–20 years. Overall growth was best represented by the logistic growth model, whereas sex‐specific growth was best represented by a version of the von Bertalanffy growth function that allowed L∞ to vary by sex while holding k and t0 constant between sexes. Fishes were more important to crevalle jack diet than invertebrates, and diet varied among locations and years. These findings will address fundamental knowledge gaps to inform age‐based stock assessments for crevalle jack and ecosystem approaches to fisheries management in the Gulf of Mexico.
An Extended K Function Method for Analyzing Distributions of Polygons with GIS
Authors: Okabe Atsuyuki , Okabe Kayo
Published: April 2022

The objective of this paper is to develop a K function method for analyzing distributions of polygon‐like entities in the real world by extending Ripley’s K function method. Many empirical studies using the K function method assume that entities are represented by points. If entities are small enough in comparison with a study area, this approximation may be acceptable. If not, polygon‐like entities may not be approximated by points. To deal with polygon‐like entities, this paper develops a K function method for analyzing distributions of polygons. First, the paper shows a method for extending the local K function of points to that of polygons. Second, the paper compares the result obtained from the K function of polygons with that of the points representing the polygons and shows a distinctive difference. Third, the paper formulates the cross K function method of polygons to analyze the relationship between two distributions of polygons of different kinds. Fourth, the paper implements the methods in GIS. Last, the paper applies the cross K function method of polygons to actual distributions of buildings of different uses in Aoyama, Tokyo.
Different information needs—The major reasons for calling the helpline when invited to colorectal cancer screening
Authors: Fritzell Kaisa , Kottorp Anders , Jervaeus Anna
Published: April 2022

Introduction

This study pertains to the design of a decision aid (DA) to shed light on information and support needs in colorectal cancer screening, with the aim to explore the calling patterns to the Screening of Swedish Colons (SCREESCO) study's helpline.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted with data from documented telephone calls to the SCREESCO study, including individuals, 59–60 years, randomized to colonoscopy or high sensitive faecal immunochemical test (FIT).

Results

More than 2000 calls (women 58.5%; colonoscopy 59%) were analysed. Calling patterns: unsubscribing from screening, confirmation of participation, logistical concerns about the screening procedure, counselling, and FIT screening difficulties or in need of a new FIT test. Comorbidity was the most frequent reason for unsubscribing and most of the counselling calls included questions about the FIT test or the colonoscopy.

Conclusion

Most of the calls to the helpline seemed to be related to individuals' lack of understanding about the organization of the screening programme and the screening procedure. Therefore, we find it important to further stress the tailoring part in our DA developing process, that is, provide limited information initially, with the possibility of access to more, if desired by the individual, still with respect to the individual's needs, health and digital literacy.

Patient and Public Contribution

Individuals representing the public and invited to SCREESCO participated since we analysed their calls to the helpline. The findings will contribute to our continued work with the DA where the public will contribute and participate.
Preoperative factors affecting the operative outcomes of laparoscopic nephrectomy
Authors: Kano Tatsuo , Kim Hakushi , Kawakami Masayoshi , Nitta Masahiro , Hasegawa Masanori , Shoji Sunao , Miyajima Akira
Published: April 2022

Objectives

Laparoscopic radical nephrectomy is the standard surgery for localized renal cell carcinoma. Both tumor and patient factors affect the difficulty of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. Obesity is a major factor influencing technical difficulty in surgical procedures. This study examined preoperative tumor and patient factors affecting the operating time.

Methods

The data of 123 patients who underwent laparoscopic radical nephrectomy at our institution between January 2014 and December 2018 were retrospectively analyzed. The operating time was determined based on the median pneumoperitoneum time. Surgical procedures with a pneumoperitoneum time of ≥130 min were defined as having prolonged pneumoperitoneum time. Multiple logistic regression analyses were performed to identify the preoperative factors affecting the prolonged pneumoperitoneum time, and risk stratification was performed based on these factors.

Results

Multiple logistic regression analyses revealed that a total number of renal pedicle blood vessels ≥3 and a visceral fat volume ≥3000 cm3 were associated with prolonged pneumoperitoneum time of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy. Based on the multivariate analysis results, these factors were considered individually, and the cohort was stratified into three risk groups: low (0 point), intermediate (1 point), and high (2 points) risk groups. The pneumoperitoneum time was significantly prolonged as the number of risk factors increased.

Conclusions

We developed a risk stratification model using preoperative factors to predict the prolonged pneumoperitoneum time of laparoscopic radical nephrectomy, which can help select suitable cases that are appropriate for each surgeon's skill level.
Tetragonal reconstruction and monoclinic variants rearrangement during heat treatment in zirconia
Authors: Wang Yongzhe , Brodusch Nicolas , Gauvin Raynald , Lin Chucheng , Zeng Yi
Published: April 2022

An in situ monoclinic variants selection and rearrangement study on Y2O3–ZrO2 coatings was conducted using electron backscattered diffraction. The sequence growth of variants with the correspondence of (100)m ∼// (010)t, [010]m ∼// [001]t, and [001]m ∼// [100]t (CAB‐OR2) was found initially and converted to the 90°‐rotated sequence growth with (100)m ∼// (100)t, [001]m ∼// [001]t, and [010]m ∼// [010]t (ABC‐OR2) after heat treatment. In another coating, most of the variants first exhibited interleaving growth and changed to typically fourfold growth. This in situ evolution of both variants orientation relationship and arrangement revealed the effects of stress and stress relief on the martensitic transformation. Moreover, the variants selection might be diversified during the cyclic transformation, and the classical phenomenological theory could mainly be proved by the transformation triggered by temperature, instead of external stress. Furthermore, the variants orientation relationship was exactly confirmed by the tetragonal grain reconstructions. In particular, the orientation variation of reconstructed tetragonal grains was also found and could mainly be explained by the behavior of stress relief and dynamic recrystallization.
Characterization of bacterial communities in Coregonus peled fillets during chilled storage and interactions between selected bacterial strains
Authors: Li Meng , Shi Jia-ning , You Gao-ming , Ma Yong-sheng , Zhao Qian-cheng
Published: April 2022

Aim

Coregonus peled fillets were used as a model to evaluate the dominant bacterial growth of chilled fish during storage after shipping and interactions of selected bacterial strains.

Methods and Results

Coregonus peled fillets were transported by air and land in ice boxes about 48 h from aquatic products company in Xinjiang, China, to the laboratory located in Dalian, China. Both culture-dependent (plate counts on nonselective media) based on 16S rRNA gene sequencing and culture-independent (Illumina-MiSeq high-throughput sequencing) methods were used. To detect interactions among bacterial populations from chilled fish, the influence of 18 test strains on the growth of 12 indicator isolates was measured by a drop assay and in liquid culture medium broth. The results showed that bacterial counts exceeded 7.0 log CFU/g following storage for 4 days at 4 °C. When the bacterial counts exceeded 8.5 log CFU/g after 12 days, the predominant micro-organisms were Aeromonas, Pseudomonas, Carnobacterium, Psychrobacter and Shewanella, as measured by the culture-independent method. All test strains showed inhibiting effects on the growth of other strains in liquid culture. Pseudomonas isolates showed antibacterial activity for approximately 60% of the indicator strains on nutritional agar plates. The majority of test isolates enhancing indicator strain growth were the strains isolated on day 0.

Conclusions

High-throughput sequencing approach gives whole picture of bacterial communities in chilled C. peled fillets during storage, while growth interferences between selected bacterial strains illustrate the complexity of microbial interactions.

Significance and Impact of the Study

We determined the bacterial communities and growth interferences in chilled Coregonus peled after shipping and these are the first data concerning microbiota in C. peled using a culture-independent analysis. The present study will be useful for manufacture and preservation of C. peled products by providing with valuable information regarding microbiological spoilage of C. peled.
Effect of TLR4/MyD88/NF‐kB axis in paraventricular nucleus on ventricular arrhythmias induced by sympathetic hyperexcitation in post‐myocardial infarction rats
Authors: Wang Kang , You Shuling , Hu Hesheng , Li Xiaolu , Yin Jie , Shi Yugen , Qi Lei , Li Pingjiang , Zhao Yuepeng , Yan Suhua
Published: April 2022

Sympathetic activation after myocardial infarction (MI) leads to ventricular arrhythmias (VAs), which can result in sudden cardiac death (SCD). The toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4)/myeloid differentiation primary response 88 (MyD88)/nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐kB) axis within the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN), a cardiac‐neural sympathetic nerve centre, plays an important role in causing VAs. An MI rat model and a PVN‐TLR4 knockdown model were constructed. The levels of protein were detected by Western blotting and immunofluorescence, and localizations were visualized by multiple immunofluorescence staining. Central and peripheral sympathetic activation was visualized by immunohistochemistry for c‐fos protein, renal sympathetic nerve activity (RSNA) measurement, heart rate variability (HRV) analysis and norepinephrine (NE) level detection in serum and myocardial tissue measured by ELISA. The arrhythmia scores were measured by programmed electrical stimulation (PES), and cardiac function was detected by the pressure–volume loop (P‐V loop). The levels of TLR4 and MyD88 and the nuclear translocation of NF‐kB within the PVN were increased after MI, while sympathetic activation and arrhythmia scores were increased and cardiac function was decreased. However, inhibition of TLR4 significantly reversed these conditions. PVN‐mediated sympathetic activation via the TLR4/MyD88/NF‐kB axis ultimately leads to the development of VAs after MI.
Unsettling the family sciences: Introducing settler colonial theory through a theoretical analysis of the family and racialized injustice
Authors: Jordan Lorien S.
Published: April 2022

In this article, I advance settler colonial theory (SCT) as a critical framework for antiracist and anticolonial family scholarship. Rather than a historical event, SCT describes settlement as a persistent and violent structure. SCT uniquely connects racialization to Indigenous erasure, anti‐Blackness, anti‐immigrant exclusion, and the ascendancy of Whiteness through intersectional analyses of belonging and otherness. In my discussion, I position the family as a key mechanism of settler colonialism, moving between the historical and contemporary phenomena of family formation and family separation in the United States. Weaving together tenets of SCT and the family, I provide a critical case analysis of the COVID‐19 pandemic and its colonial leanings. To conclude, I discuss the unique possibilities that emerge when family scientists utilize SCT to disrupt the structural power of the settler, contributing to the critical transformation of the family sciences.
Spirulina supplementation prevents exercise‐induced lipid peroxidation, inflammation and skeletal muscle damage in elite rugby players
Authors: Chaouachi Mehdi , Gautier Sandrine , Carnot Yoann , Guillemot Pierrick , Pincemail Joël , Moison Yann , Collin Tom , Groussard Carole , Vincent Sophie
Published: April 2022

Background

The present study aimed to examine the effects of spirulina supplementation on pro/antioxidant status, inflammation and skeletal muscle damage markers immediately and 24 h after exhaustive exercise in elite rugby players.

Methods

Seventeen elite male Rugby Union players were randomly assigned to a spirulina (SPI: n = 9) or placebo (PLA: n = 8) group in a double‐blind design. Subjects were supplemented with Spirulina platensis (5.7 g day–1) or placebo (isoproteic and caloric) for 7 weeks. At baseline and after 7 weeks of supplementation, blood samples were obtained before (T0), immediately after (T1) and 24 h after (T2) exhaustive exercise. The Yoyo Intermittent Recovery Test Level 2 was used as an exhaustive exercise to induce oxidative stress (OS), inflammation and skeletal muscle damage. The studied parameters included pro/antioxidant status markers (superoxide dismutase, glutathione peroxidase, reduced glutathione/glutathione disulphide ratio, oxidised low‐density lipoprotein and F2α‐isoprostanes [F2‐Isop]), inflammation markers (myeloperoxidase and C‐reactive protein [CRP]) and skeletal muscle damage markers (lactate dehydrogenase and creatine kinase [CK]).

Results

Our results showed that F2‐Isop, CRP and CK levels significantly increased at T1 only in the PLA group (p < 0.05, p < 0.05 and p < 0.001, respectively) with no change in the SPI group, which reflects the effect of spirulina to prevent lipid peroxidation, inflammation and skeletal muscle damage induced by exhaustive exercise. Moreover, spirulina supplementation accelerated the return to baseline values given that F2‐Isop, CRP and CK levels at T2 were significantly lower than at T0 in the SPI group (p < 0.05, p < 0.01 and p < 0.001, respectively).

Conclusions

Based on the markers used in the present study, our results show that spirulina supplementation potentially prevents exercise‐induced lipid peroxidation, inflammation and skeletal muscle damage, and may also accelerate the recovery of some of these markers. Based on our findings, we recommend spirulina supplementation especially for those athletes who do not achieve the recommended antioxidant dietary intake and who perform a high training load aiming to reduce the magnitude of OS, inflammation and skeletal muscle damage, which could help to reduce performance losses and accelerate recovery after training/competitions throughout the season.