bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recalling Responses: A RCT on Police Learning and Knowledge Retention
Authors: Bonadies Timothy , Herbert Jessica , Blum Jon , Schaefer Peggy , Beer-Maxwell Dianne , Cordner Gary , Carter Chris
Published: December 2022

Public and policy demands to address police training are prominent in modern policing. While existing research has highlighted the gaps of inclusive topics and content dosage to meet reasonable expectations of knowledge or competency, there is a significant gap in policing research on evidence-based training methods. Specifically, the evaluation of police recruit training methods and the impact to student knowledge gain, retention, and application of concepts. This study is designed as two, randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of 152 police recruit participants. These participants are divided into control and treatment groups for in-person and online instructional methods and again into subgroups for traditional and integrated learning. These four groups are defined as: Group 1: In-Person Traditional; Group 2: Online Traditional; Group 3: In-Person Integrated; and Group 4: Online-Integrated. For all participants, four tests were administered to measure changes in knowledge gain and retention. Panel data within a weighted stratification model evaluated changes within groups and differences among groups. Integrated learning groups performed best overall for knowledge gain and longer retention of content. In-person Integrated (Group 3) had highest scoring for immediate knowledge gain and continued retention throughout the experiment. Knowledge retention decreased immediately for in-person traditional (Group 1) participants. These findings have direct impacts to the current practices of traditional police training during basic academies. Furthermore, additional details on student engagement during the experiment indicate additional expectations of recruit learners. Outcomes from this RCT inform practitioners how to deliver critical topics (e.g., communication skills) and measure officer knowledge and retention. The outcomes inform agencies on training development practices for future in-service and/or field training programming that reinforces concepts and critical skills.
Measurement Properties of the Simplified Chinese Version of the Lumbar Spine Instability Questionnaire for Patients With Low Back Pain in Mainland China
Authors: Chen Shao-Feng , Zhou Xiao-Yi , Cheng Ya-Jun , Yang Hao-Yan , Li Man-Ping , Zhai Xiao , Li Ming , Bai Yu-Shu , Wei Xian-Zhao
Published: December 2022

Study Design.

A prospective study.

Objective.

To develop a simplified Chinese version of Lumbar Spine Instability Questionnaire (SC-LSIQ) and test its measurement properties.

Summary of Background Data.

The LSIQ has been translated into several languages. Different versions of LSIQ have proved good reliability and validity in evaluating patients with low back pain. However, there is no simplified Chinese version of LSIQ (SC-LSIQ).

Materials and Methods.

The SC-LSIQ has been translated into a simplified Chinese version according to a standard procedure. A total of 155 patients with low back pain completed the SC-LSIQ along with Oswestry Disability Index, Roland-Morris disability questionnaire, Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia, and visual analogue scale (VAS). The internal consistency, test-retest reliability, and validity of SC-LSIQ were then calculated to evaluate the measurement properties of SC-LSIQ.

Results.

The results of SC-LSIQ demonstrated that there was no ceiling or floor effect detected. The Cronbach α coefficient of 0.911 determined a well internal consistency. The intraclass correlation coefficient (0.98) presented an excellent reliability of SC-LSIQ. The Pearson correlation coefficient (r) showed that the SC-LSIQ was excellent correlated to Oswestry Disability Index (r=0.809), Roland-Morris disability questionnaire (r=0.870), and Tampa Scale for Kinesiophobia (r=0.945,). Furthermore, it moderately correlated to visual analogue scale (r=0.586).

Conclusion.

The SC-LSIQ features good internal consistency, reliability, and validity for evaluating Chinese patients with LBP. Results suggest that the SC-LSIQ can be appropriately applied to patients with LBP in routine clinical practice.
Minimizing the Risks of Simethicone in Endoscope Reprocessing
Authors: Speer Tony , Vickery Karen , Alfa Michelle , Sáenz Roque
Published: December 2022

This statement was written under the auspices of the World Gastroenterology Organization’s Guidelines Committee. The authors are members of the Review Team of the WGO Endoscope Disinfection Guideline and have experience in endoscopy, endoscope reprocessing, and microbiology, including biofilms. During the preparation of the WGO Update on Endoscope Disinfection Guidelines, concerns about simethicone on endoscope channel surfaces compromising cleaning and disinfection were raised. Publications on simethicone, including modes of delivery, effectiveness, and risks, have been reviewed. The paper was written as a companion to the new guidelines with a focus on minimizing the risks of simethicone in endoscope reprocessing.
Correlation Between Demographic Variables and Complications in Nonsyndromic Craniosynostosis
Authors: Martinez Jose del Carmen , Tellez Nicolas , Gonzalez Luis Vicente , López Juan Pablo , Rodríguez-Sáenz Álvaro , Orjuela María Paula , Torres Ivan
Published: December 2022

Purpose:

This retrospective cross-sectional, observational study aims to determine the correlation between demographic variables and nonsyndromic craniosynostosis.

Methods:

A cross-sectional study was carried out. The inclusion criteria were nonsyndromic craniosynostosis and the exclusion criteria were patients who did not have complete records.

Results:

The sample included 49 patients and mainly women. Patients with more than 4 days in the intensive care unit were related with more complications. Intracranial Hypertension was seen predominantly in patients between 6 and 8 months P=0007.

Conclusion:

Some variables can modificate complications risk but future studies are needed to further investigate the influence of such variables on craniofacial care.
Effect of a high-fat diet and leptin on STAT3 phosphorylation in hippocampal astrocytes
Authors: Naranjo V. , Merino Beatriz , Del Olmo N. , Frago L.M. , Chowen J.A. , Ruiz-Gayo M. , Cano González Victoria
Published: December 2022

Diet-induced obesity evoked by high-fat diets (HFD) impairs hippocampus-dependent learning and memory in juvenile mice. Leptin resistance has been proposed to play a role in this phenomenon. We have recently reported that leptin receptor (LepR) knockdown in astrocytes yields mice displaying both impaired synaptic plasticity and low Glu uptake efficacy in the hippocampus. These findings support the pivotal role for astrocyte LepR in hippocampus function, which could eventually be affected by HFD consumption.

Objective

The aim of the current study was to evaluate the influence of HFD on the functionality of LepR by quantifying phosphorylated levels of 705Tyr-STAT3 in hippocampus astrocytes from mice that consumed an HFD either during the juvenile or the adult period.

Methods

Five- and eight-week-old male mice, fed during 8 weeks with either control chow or HFD, received a single dose of leptin and their brains were prepared for immunofluorescence to identify double-positive GFAP/p705Tyr-STAT3 cells.

Results

HFD intake led to increased pSTAT3 immunoreactivity in GFAP+ cells in the CA1/CA3 hippocampus areas. The effect was observed both in adolescent and adult mice. Leptin increased pSTAT3 immunoreactivity in control animals but was devoid of effect in HFD mice. HFD itself has no effect on the number of GFAP+ cells.

Conclusions

Our data show that regular intake of HFD enhances STAT3 signaling in CA1/CA3 astrocytes, an effect that could be linked to the increase of leptin triggered by HFD. The increase of pSTAT3 might be integral to homeostatic mechanisms aimed at maintaining hippocampus function.
Do relational benefits influence commitments and loyalty in a non-contract mechanism?
Authors: Lee Chang-Ju , Lee Sae-Mi , Iyer Rajesh , Lee Yong-Ki
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The study focuses on how to build long-term relationships with multi-channel agencies (MCAs) (dealers) who serve multiple manufacturers on a non-exclusive basis in a business-to-business (B2B) market. This study looks at the framework of relational benefits-commitment-long term orientation in a business-to-business context.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from MCAs of three leading companies in the food distribution business. The survey used established scales to measure the relational benefits (core, operational, social and special treatment), commitment (affective and calculative) and long-term orientation (LTO).

Findings

The findings of the study show that core, social and special treatment benefits influence calculative commitment, and operational and special treatment benefits influence affective commitment. The study also supports that calculative and affective commitment play an important role in understanding the loyalty of MCAs.

Originality/value

The research examines how relational benefits impact commitment and loyalty among MCAs and manufacturers, in a non-exclusive relationship, in the business-to-business environment. This study incorporates social exchange theory (SET), relational benefits paradigm and commitment and long-term orientation in its framework and tests it within the food distribution industry. This study is the first of its kind to examine the effects of relational benefits on MCAs behavior in a food supplier–buyer setting.
Valuing volunteers: emerging trends in the training of Volunteer Police Cadet Leaders
Authors: Pepper Ian , Rogers Colin
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to consider the training provided to Volunteer Police Cadet (VPC) Leaders in police forces across England and Wales who, as part of the wider policing volunteer family, lead organised youth development activities for uniformed police cadets.

Design/methodology/approach

An online ethically approved questionnaire was administered to volunteer leaders across six VPC schemes hosted by police forces in England and Wales. The sample population being selected due to their geographical spread across both nations, along with the similarities of their VPC schemes. The questionnaire collected demographic information of respondents, then used a blend of closed questions. Likert scales and free text boxes to explore attitudes.

Findings

The training for the volunteer leaders seems to focus on the mandated elements provided to protect the cadets from harm and also the organisation from litigation. With little development of additional knowledge, skills and behaviours (and in some cases required qualifications) to enhance the service and opportunities delivered to the young people by the volunteers.

Research limitations/implications

Due in part to the limited response rate, this research cannot claim to be representative of all individuals engaged in this voluntary role; it does however provide insights into the training of such volunteers.

Practical implications

The research informs the decision makers of how the training of volunteer cadet leaders within forces seems to focus on the completion of the mandatory elements, with little further development of the volunteers to deliver both varied and challenging activities for the cadets.

Originality/value

The research provides an insight for decision makers on how the training of volunteer cadet leaders within forces seems to focus on the mandatory elements, with few opportunities for further development of volunteer leaders to deliver new, varied and challenging activities for the cadets.
Diversity as an innovative means to improve corporate governance: a new perspective
Authors: Leung Tak Yan , Sane Anjali
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to address the research gap about the impact of board and audit committee diversity (gender, ethnicity, age and education) on audit fee by using a balanced panel of listed firms in four Asian markets – Hong Kong, India, Malaysia and Singapore. The authors argue that a more diverse board and audit committee with the inclusion of females, international directors and directors of different education levels may act as a more effective and innovative mechanism to monitor and regulate important managerial decision such as audit fee.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use a two-stage framework to address the endogeneity issue and the random-effects panel model to control for firm heterogeneity on a balanced panel of 200 firms in four Asian regions over 2011–2013 to examine the hypotheses presented in this study.

Findings

The authors find that diversity is a factor determining the level of fees paid to audit firms. A more diverse board and audit committee may demand audit services involving differential effort. Firms with more international directors on board and in audit committee pay a higher fee. In addition, a more educationally diverse board and audit committee also pay a higher fee. In contrast, a significant negative relationship is found between audit committee gender diversity and audit fees, but not between board gender diversity and audit fees, suggesting that a more gender-diverse audit committee asks for less audit effort and pays a lower audit fee.

Research limitations/implications

The findings of this study are based on three years of data from the largest 50 firms in four Asian regions, which limits the generalizability of the results. Like other cross-country studies, the analyses in this study also have problems in controlling for all unobservable factors related to cross-country differences in regulations or institutional environments. Diversity can take other forms, including experience, profession, tenure and marital status which are not a part of this study and lay the foundation for future research.

Practical implications

A firm with a more education-diverse board is more committed to quality monitoring and demands higher audit effort, and consequently, higher fees are paid to audit firms. More educationally diverse board and audit committee exercise more effective monitoring and prefer greater audit effort.

Social implications

Firms with more ethnic-diverse boards and audit committees may demand greater assurance for investor protection and pay higher audit fees. The complementary view of internal and external governance systems suggests more effective monitors may prefer additional protection through the purchase of more audit effort. The findings on education diversity and ethnic diversity are consistent with the argument of the complementary view.

Originality/value

This study highlights the significant impacts of diversity (gender, education and ethnicity) in the financial reporting process.
Understanding customers hospital experience and value co-creation behavior
Authors: Samsa Çağlar , Yüce Alpaslan
Published: December 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to test what experience value factors are required to constitute customer value co-creation behavior.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors collected the opinions of 395 customers who had hospital experience in the last one year and the value they perceived from these experiences through random sampling. In addition, they tested the effect of the value perceived by the customers from these experiences on the customer value co-creation behavior with the partial least structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) model using Smart PLS 3 software.

Findings

The measurements had strong reliability and validity. In addition, PLS-SEM results showed that customer experience value had a positive and significant effect on customer value co-creation behavior. The results of the study have revealed that creating the perception of customer experience value is an important determinant of customer value co-creation behavior (customer citizenship behavior and customer participation behavior) in hospitals.

Research limitations/implications

The limitation of the study is that the study was conducted only in public hospitals. The application was carried out in only one city and two public hospitals.

Practical implications

It was concluded that customer experience value is the key factor for co-creation value in hospitals.

Originality/value

Achieving co-creation value is considered a key element in the success and competitive advantage of hospitals. In the study, it was seen that the perception of customer experience value is very important in the success of the companies. It is predicted that these results will make significant contributions to firm managers in the design of hospital journeys of customers, service improvement and service excellence efforts.
Virus detection of measles‐negative cases in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea, from 2017 to 2019
Authors: Cho Han‐Gil , Moon Su‐Kyoung , Jeong Il‐Hyung , Lee Yea‐Eun , Lee Hyun‐Kyung , Han Baek‐Sang , Kim Yujeong , Chung Yoon‐Seok , Cha Boksik , Kim Wantae
Published: December 2022

To investigate viruses in measles‐negative cases, 221 measles‐suspected samples collected in Gyeonggi Province, South Korea were tested using a real‐time PCR assay. Rubella virus was not detected. However, 11 cases of parvovirus B19 (5.0%), 47 cases of human herpesvirus 6 (21.3%), 25 cases of human herpesvirus 7 (11.3%), and one case of co‐infection with parvovirus B19 and human herpesvirus 7 were confirmed, as were eight cases of co‐infection with human herpesvirus 6 and human herpesvirus 7. This study showed that parvovirus B19, human herpesvirus 6, and human herpesvirus 7 should be considered by physicians for the diagnosis of measles‐suspected patients.
Idiosyncratic effects of coinfection on the association between systemic pathogens and the gut microbiota of a wild rodent, the bank vole Myodes glareolus
Authors: Brila Ilze , Lavrinienko Anton , Tukalenko Eugene , Kallio Eva R. , Mappes Tapio , Watts Phillip C.
Published: December 2022

The effects of systemic pathogens on gut microbiota of wild animals are poorly understood. Furthermore, coinfections are the norm in nature, yet most studies of pathogen–microbiota interactions focus on effects of single pathogen infections on gut microbiota.

We examined the effects of four systemic pathogens (bacteria Anaplasma phagocytophilum and Borrelia burgdorferi sensu lato, apicomplexan protozoa Babesia microti and Puumala orthohantavirus) and coinfections among them on the (bacterial) gut microbiota of wild bank voles Myodes glareolus.

We hypothesized that: (1) the effects of coinfection on gut microbiota generally differ from those of a single pathogen infection, (2) systemic pathogens have individual (i.e. distinct) associations with gut microbiota, which are modified by coinfection and (3) the effects of coinfection (compared with those of single infection) are idiosyncratic (i.e. pathogen‐specific).

The gut microbiota of coinfected bank voles differed from that of single pathogen infected individuals, although, as predicted, the effects of coinfections were unique for each pathogen. After accounting for coinfections, only Puumala orthohantavirus was associated with higher α‐diversity; however, all pathogens affected gut microbiota ß‐diversity in a pathogen‐specific way, affecting both rare and abundant gut bacteria.

Our results showed that the effects of systemic pathogens on host's gut microbiota vary depending on the pathogen species, resulting in idiosyncratic signatures of coinfection. Furthermore, our results emphasize that neglecting the impact of coinfections can mask patterns of pathogen–microbiota associations.
Supporting emotion regulation in individuals with ASD, ADHD and bipolar disorder through trauma‐informed instruction and self‐regulation strategies
Authors: Delisio Lauren A. , Casale‐Giannola Diane , Bukaty Caitlyn A.
Published: December 2022

Since the beginning of the COVID‐19 pandemic, students have endured drastic changes in educational routines. Such disruptions can be especially challenging for students who struggle with executive functioning, self‐regulation and emotion regulation, such as students with autism spectrum disorder (ASD), attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) and bipolar disorder. Using a framework of trauma‐informed instruction, the authors supported classroom teachers in implementing sensory spaces for students with ASD, ADHD and bipolar disorder. The project included professional development and funding for teachers to develop, procure and offer sensory tools and strategies to assist students in recognising and managing emotions. The authors collected data on the effectiveness of the sensory supports, combining teacher surveys and student behaviour data. Results indicated increased teacher knowledge on trauma‐informed instruction and use of sensory supports to promote executive functioning and self‐regulation and decreased target behaviours in students based on structured observation and anecdotal teacher feedback.
Towards planetary nexus governance in the Anthropocene: An earth system law perspective
Authors: Kotzé Louis J. , Kim Rakhyun E.
Published: December 2022

Nexus governance recognises that sustainability concerns such as water, energy, and food security are interlinked and provides an alternative to fragmented governance. Although it has been applied mostly in the domestic context, the need for nexus governance is also apparent at a planetary scale, as highlighted by interacting planetary boundaries, global telecoupling, and global tipping cascades. However, international environmental law is unable to facilitate what we call ‘planetary nexus governance’. This is mainly because international environmental law lacks an ecological Grundnorm and because its primary rules of conduct remain fragmented in the absence of effective secondary rules on how primary rules should relate to each other. Recognising this challenge, scholars have recently proposed earth system law as a new framework to rethink, in an integrated way, law in an Anthropocene context. Building on this framework, we suggest that international environmental law should adopt a unifying Grundnorm such as planetary integrity. We also suggest that international institutional law, as a body of secondary rules, has an important role to play in facilitating planetary nexus governance by bringing together fragmented bodies of international law. We briefly discuss ways in which international environmental law could reorientate itself to better facilitate planetary nexus governance.
Association between pre‐operative prolonged corrected QT interval and all‐cause mortality after non‐cardiac surgery
Authors: Johannsdottir Helena Xiang , Gudmundsdottir Ingibjorg Jona , Karason Sigurbergur , Sigurdsson Martin Ingi
Published: December 2022

Background

Prolonged corrected QT interval (QTc) has been linked to risk of arrhythmias and mortality in the general population. Pre‐operative electrocardiography is often obtained for patient‐and procedural cardiovascular risk assessment. The aim of this study was to investigate the association of pre‐operative QTc and all‐cause mortality in a non‐cardiac surgical cohort.

Methods

A retrospective study of all patients over 18 years undergoing non‐cardiac surgery at Landspitali–the National University Hospital in Iceland between 2 January 2005 to 31 December 2015, with follow‐up through 20 May 2016. Patients were separated into five categories according to their pre‐operative QTc interval ≤ 379, 380–439 (reference group), 440–479, 480–519 and ≥520 ms. Primary outcome was long‐term mortality and secondary outcome was 30‐day mortality.

Results

A total of 10,209 surgeries for 10,209 individuals were included. The median follow‐up for mortality was 2691 days (interquartile range [IQR] 1620–3705 days). Patients with longer QTc interval had a higher comorbidity burden, were more likely to undergo emergency surgery and were often prescribed cardiac medications. After adjustment for confounding variables, the hazard ratio (HR) for long‐term mortality compared with reference (QTc 380‐439 ms) was 0.85 [CI: 0.66–1.09] for QTc ≤379, 1.08 [CI: 0.99–1.17] for QTc 440–479 ms, 1.26 [CI: 1.10–1.43] for QTc between 480 and 519 ms and 0.97 [CI: 0.78–1.21] for QTc ≥520 ms. When compared with reference, only patients with QTc interval between 480 and 519 ms had higher odds ratio for 30‐day mortality as odds ratio for other groups were following; 1.12 [CI: 0.18–3.8] for ≤379 ms, 1.03 [CI: 0.70–1.51] for QTc 440‐479 ms, 1.64 [CI: 1.02–2.60] for QTc 480‐519 ms and 0.98 [0.44–2.06] for QTc ≥520 ms.

Conclusion

Pre‐operative QTc between 480 and 519 ms is associated with both higher long‐term and 30‐day mortality after non‐cardiac surgery. The results suggest that this could reflect an underlying cardiovascular risk.
Agricultural windfalls and the seasonality of political violence in Africa
Authors: Ubilava David , Hastings Justin V. , Atalay Kadir
Published: December 2022

When the prices of cereal grains rise, social unrest and conflict become likely. In rural areas, the predation motives of perpetrators can explain the positive relationship between prices and conflict. Predation happens at places and in periods where and when spoils to be appropriated are available. In predominantly agrarian societies, such opportune times align with the harvest season. Does the seasonality of agricultural income lead to the seasonality of conflict? We address this question by analyzing over 55 thousand incidents involving violence against civilians staged by paramilitary groups across Africa during the 1997–2020 period. We investigate the crop year pattern of violence in response to agricultural income shocks via changes in international cereal prices. We find that a year‐on‐year one standard deviation annual growth of the price of the major cereal grain results in a harvest‐time spike in violence by militias in areas where this cereal grain is grown. This translates to a nearly 10% increase in violence during the early postharvest season. We observe no such change in violence by state forces or rebel groups—the other two notable actors. By further investigating the mechanisms, we show that the violence by militias is amplified after plausibly rich harvest seasons when the value of spoils to be appropriated is higher. By focusing on harvest‐related seasonality of conflict, as well as actors more likely to be involved in violence against civilians, we contribute to the growing literature on the economic causes of conflict in predominantly agrarian societies.
Neonatal outcome of infants with umbilical cord arterial pH less than 7
Authors: Lau So Ling , Lok Zara Lin Zau , Hui Shuk Yi Annie , Fung Genevieve Po Gee , Lam Hugh Simon , Leung Tak Yeung
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Umbilical arterial pH of less than 7 is often used as the threshold below which the risks of neonatal death and adverse long‐term neurological outcomes are considered to be higher. Yet within the group with pH <7, the risks have not been further stratified. Here, we aimed to investigate the predictors of adverse long‐term outcomes of this group of infants.

Material and methods

This was a retrospective study of 248 infants born after 34 weeks of gestation in a tertiary obstetric unit, between 2003 and 2017, with cord arterial pH <7 or base excess ≤−12 mmol/L at birth. The infants were categorized into two groups: (1) intact survivors, or (2) neonatal/infant deaths or cerebral palsy or developmental delay. The umbilical arterial pH and base excess levels, Apgar scores, mode of delivery, gestational age, small for gestational age, birth in the era before the implementation of neonatal hypothermic therapy, and the presence of a known sentinel event, were compared between the groups using univariate analysis followed by multivariate analysis.

Results

Among the 248 infants, there were 222 intact survivors (89.5%) and 26 infants with poor outcomes (10.5%), including eight deaths (3.2%) and 18 (7.3%) with cerebral palsy and/or developmental delay. Univariate analysis showed that infants with adverse outcomes had significantly lower cord arterial pH (6.85 vs 6.95, with p < 0.001), lower cord arterial base excess (−19.95 vs −15.90 mmol/L, p < 0.001), a higher proportion of having AS at 5 min <7 (65.4% vs 13.1%, p < 0.001), and a higher proportion of having a sentinel event (34.6% vs 16.7%, p = 0.034). Multivariate analysis confirmed cord arterial pH of <6.9 and an Apgar score at 5 min <7 as independent prognostic factors (the adjusted odds ratios were 4.64 and 6.62, respectively). The risk of adverse outcome increased from 4.3% when the arterial pH was between 6.9 and <7, to 30% when the pH was <6.9.

Conclusions

Infants born with umbilical artery pH <7 still have a high chance of 89.5% to become intact survivors. A cord arterial pH of <6.9 and an Apgar score at 5 min <7 are independent prognostic factors for neonatal/infant death or adverse long‐term neurological outcomes.
Market reaction to fossil fuel divestment announcements: Evidence from the United States
Authors: Zori Solomon George , Bakker Michael H. C. , Tuokuu Francis Xavier D. , Pare Jeremy
Published: December 2022

Fossil fuel divestment movements have gained momentum since 2011, aimed at ending fossil fuel use and a move toward a cleaner, affordable, and sustainable energy system, for business and society. The present study investigates the direct impact of fossil fuel divestment announcements on stock prices of firms listed on the United States' stock exchanges. Using an event study and guided by the United Nation's sustainable development goals (SDGs), we test the effects of 116 divestments announcements between 2014 and 2019 on 51 publicly traded fossil fuel companies. Our results suggest that there is a negative effect of these announcements on fossil fuel firm stock prices. Also, we find that the type of fossil fuel firm (coal or oil and gas), the type of divestment (partial, coal only, or full), the timing of the announcement, and the size of the divesting investor have some explanatory power in relation to the (cumulative) abnormal returns following the divestment announcements. While the negative impact on stock prices is not surprising, the reaction from the divested firms after such large divestitures is not consistent with what may be expected, given past reactions to divestitures seeking to achieve different social goals. Given the SDGs, it seems clear why investors are divesting themselves from fossil fuel firms, but why has the reaction to the 116 divestments led to very little change in the way these publicly traded fossil fuel firms do business given their direct and growing impacts on society? We conclude the study with some suggestions for future research.
Alantolactone inhibits oesophageal adenocarcinoma cells through nuclear factor erythroid 2‐related factor 2‐mediated reactive oxygen species increment
Authors: Chen Jianhua , Zhang Yunxiang , Huang Rong , Cao Lihua , Zhang Ying , Lian Maowei , Wang Zuo , Jin Jiajia , Tang Chu , Chen Tingting , Yan Linli , Yu Linze , Tian Ruimin , Xiang Xiaocong , Luo Lijun , Yu Chunlei
Published: December 2022

Background

Oesophageal adenocarcinoma (EAC) is a highly lethal cancer associated with a rapidly rising incidence and a poor prognosis. Alantolactone, a sesquiterpene lactone isolated from inula helenium, has anti‐inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective activities, and anticancer properties.

Objective

In the present study, the anticancer effects of alantolactone on the human EAC cells were investigated in vitro and in vivo.

Methods and findings

After treated with alantolactone, the cell viability of KYAE‐1, KYAE‐2, OE19, and OE33 cells reduced significantly compared with that of the control cells. Alantolactone induced apoptosis of the EAC cell lines by inhibiting the protein expression levels of nuclear factor erythroid2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2). Furthermore, the apoptosis‐inducing effect of alantolactone was enhanced by Nrf2 knockdown while reduced by overexpression of Nrf2. Antioxidant α‐tocopherol and glutathione can protect EAC cell lines against alantolactone. A xenograft nude mice model showed that alantolactone can inhibit EAC growth in vivo.

Conclusions

Alantolactone inhibits oesophageal adenocarcinoma cells through Nrf2‐mediated reactive oxygen species (ROS) increment. Alantolactone maybe a potential therapeutical candidate for treating EAC.
How to support learning with multimedia instruction: Implementation intentions help even when load is high
Authors: Hoch Emely , Scheiter Katharina , Stalbovs Kim
Published: December 2022

There is ample evidence that multimedia learning is challenging, and learners often underutilize appropriate cognitive processes. Previous research has applied prompts to promote the use of helpful cognitive processing. However, prompts still require learners to regulate their learning, which may interfere with learning, especially in situations where cognitive demands are already high. As an alternative, implementation intentions (i.e. if‐then plans) are expected to help regulate behaviour automatically due to their specific wording, thereby offloading demands. Accordingly, this study aimed at investigating whether implementation intentions compared with prompts improve learning performance, especially under high cognitive load. Students (N = 120) learned either in a control condition without instructional support, with prompts, or with implementation intentions. Within each condition, half of the participants studied the multimedia instruction under conditions of either high or low cognitive load, which was experimentally manipulated by instructing them to perform one of two secondary tasks. In line with our hypotheses, the results showed that under low cognitive load, both prompts and implementation intentions led to better learning than the control condition. By contrast, under high cognitive load, only implementation intentions promoted learning. Thus, implementation intentions are an efficient means to promote learning even under challenging circumstances.
Prenatal socioenvironmental exposures and autism spectrum disorder: A web of confusion
Authors: Dickerson Aisha S. , Dickerson Asha S.
Published: December 2022

Although evidence of heritability for autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is strong, studies of twin pairs suggest that at least some portion of the etiology is attributable to environmental factors, either directly or through interaction with genes. Given the multitude of environmental and psychosocial exposures that have been reported to increase atypical neurodevelopment in offspring, in this article, we summarize what prenatal air pollutant, chemical, and occupational exposures and psychosocial stressors have been reportedly associated with ASD and co‐occurring neurodevelopmental disorders. We highlight the consistencies in reported associations and recommend areas for research to close gaps in our understanding of environmental risk for ASD. Because this issue is of particular importance in historically marginalized communities and low‐ and middle‐income countries, we also discuss the importance of environmental justice issues and exposure disparities in research, and we advocate for prioritizing policies to reduce disparities and improve service provision in vulnerable populations.
Natural history of clinical features in two brothers with acromesomelic dysplasia related to PRKG2
Authors: Mollaoğlu Ezgi , Uludağ Alkaya Dilek , Yıldız Ceren Ayça , Kasap Buşra , Tüysüz Beyhan
Published: December 2022

Acromesomelic dysplasias (AMD) are a group of skeletal dysplasia characterized by shortening of the middle and distal segments of the limbs. Recently, biallelic PRKG2 variants have been reported to cause a new type of AMD. We detected biallelic novel variant (c.1635‐1G > C) in PRKG2 in two brothers with mild to severe short stature, short limbs, cubitus varus, and brachydactyly. Radiological examination showed platyspondyly with anterior beaking of the vertebral bodies, stubby long bones with metaphyseal flaring and moderate brachydactyly with cone‐shaped epiphyses of the middle and proximal phalanges. Upper limb proportions of the older brother were clinically classified as rhizomelic, however radiologic findings supported acromesomelia, along with the elbow limitation. Annual follow‐ups of the older brother from the age of 5 to 20 years revealed progression of short stature with age but platyspondyly and anterior beaking became less conspicuous. The younger brother showed milder short stature and less conspicuous disproportion of the limbs than those of the older brother; however, platyspondyly and anterior beaking were more prominent on the radiographs obtained at the same age. In conclusion, this report provides new insights into the natural history of AMD type PRKG2 confirming the intrafamilial heterogeneity.
Post‐transplant ejection fraction and renal failure in cardiac transplant recipients: An analysis of the OPTN database
Authors: Lai Mason , Aras Mandar A. , Park Meyeon
Published: December 2022

Background

Despite improved life expectancy from a heart transplant, transplant recipients remain at high risk for renal dysfunction and failure, including end‐stage kidney disease (ESKD). The onset of ESKD is a poor prognostic marker and is associated with increased mortality in this setting, as in others. There is a need to identify risk factors for ESKD among heart transplant recipients in contemporary settings.

Methods

We conducted an analysis of adult heart transplant recipients transplanted between 2008 and 2021 in the Organ Procurement and Transplantation Network database. 22 737 adult recipients of heart transplants alone were included in this analysis. We examined LVEF measured 1 year after transplant, and LVEF updated annually for association with ESKD using multivariate Cox regression models.

Results

LVEF at 1‐year after transplant was associated with ESKD in multivariate models (Hazard Ratio 1.33 per 10‐unit decrease, 95% CI 1.23–1.43, p < .001). In multivariate models using categorized LVEF, mildly reduced ejection fraction (EF 40%–50%) was associated with ESKD (HR 1.76, 95% CI 1.45–2.14, p < .001), as was reduced ejection fraction (EF < 40%, HR 2.86, 95% CI 2.01–4.07, p < .001), relative to individuals with preserved ejection fraction (EF > 50%). These associations were consistent when using annually updated ejection fraction.

Conclusions

Post‐transplant left ventricular ejection fraction has value in predicting end stage kidney disease among adults who receive heart transplants alone. LVEF is routinely measured as part of contemporary post heart transplant care, and a diminished LVEF should signal to clinicians that a recipient is at increased risk of renal failure.
The evolution of wages in early modern Normandy (1600–1850)
Authors: Chambru Cédric , Maneuvrier‐Hervieu Paul
Published: December 2022

This article presents new estimates of wages for Normandy between 1600 and 1850. We use a vast array of primary and secondary sources to assemble two new databases on wages and commodity prices to establish a new regional consumer price index (CPI) and twelve regional wage series. We find that unskilled labourers earned similar wages across the agricultural, maritime, and textile sectors. Historical evidence suggests that Norman employers grappled with a tight labour market, which placed more pressure on wage increases. We posit that this situation is best explained by the combination of the early fertility transition, resulting in slow demographic growth and the rapid development of the textile industry accelerated by the arrival of cotton. Finally, we also provide tentative evidence suggesting that labourers with stable employment could have earned a little less than their English counterparts during this period.
When do contrast sensitivity deficits (or enhancements) depend on spatial frequency? Two ways to avoid spurious interactions
Authors: Bi Howard , Abrham Yonatan , Butler Pamela D. , Hu Boyang , Keane Brian P.
Published: December 2022

Studies across a broad range of disciplines—from psychiatry to cognitive science to behavioural neuroscience—have reported on whether the magnitude of contrast sensitivity alterations in one group or condition varies with spatial frequency. Significant interactions have often gone unexplained or have been used to argue for impairments in specific processing streams. Here, we show that interactions with spatial frequency may need to be re‐evaluated if the inherent skew/heteroscedasticity was not taken into account or if visual acuity could plausibly differ across groups or conditions. By re‐analysing a publicly available data set, we show that—when using raw contrast sensitivity data—schizophrenia patients exhibit an apparent contrast sensitivity impairment that lessens with spatial frequency, but that when using log‐transformed data or when using generalized estimating equations, this interaction reversed. The reversed interaction, but not the overall contrast sensitivity deficit, disappeared when groups were matched on visual acuity. An analysis of the contrast threshold data yielded similar results. A caveat is that matching groups on acuity is probably only defensible if acuity differences arise from non‐neural factors such as optical blur. Taken together, these analyses reconcile seemingly discrepant findings in the literature and demonstrate that reporting contrast sensitivity interactions with spatial frequency requires properly accounting for visual acuity and skew/heteroscedasticity.
ACTIVLIM‐Hemo: A new self‐reported, unidimensional and linear measure of activity limitations in persons with haemophilia
Authors: Lobet Sébastien , Lambert Catherine , Foubert Anthe , Chantrain Valérie‐Anne , Roussel Nathalie , Meeus Mira , Devos Ann , Maes Philip , Hermans Cedric , Penta Massimo
Published: December 2022

Introduction

To assess activity limitations in people with haemophilia (PwH), the self‐reported Haemophilia Activity List (HAL) is widely employed, despite several methodological limitations impacting the interpretation of categorical scores. Modern psychometric approaches avoid these limitations by using a probabilistic model, such as the Rasch model. The ACTIVLIM is a Rasch‐built measurement of activity limitations previously validated in several clinical conditions like neuromuscular disorders.

Aims

This study sought to develop the ACTIVLIM‐Hemo, meaning an ACTIVLIM scale version specifically adapted to assess daily activity limitations in adult PwH.

Methods

Daily activities were assessed as “impossible,” “difficult” or “easy” by 114 PwH (median age of 44 years) with 63 of them reassessed after 12 days. The Rasch Rating Scale model was used to identify activities delineating a unidimensional and linear scale unbiased by demographic and clinical status. Concurrent validity was determined through correlation with the HAL sub‐scores and sum score.

Results

The ACTIVLIM‐Hemo included 22 pertinent activities, with difficulties independent of demographic and clinical conditions, allowing a reliable measure of activity limitations (PSI = .92) expressed on a linear and unidimensional scale in PwH (7%–100 % range, ceiling effect of 1/114) with excellent test‐retest reliability (ICC = .978). Spearman rank correlations between ACTIVLIM‐Hemo and HAL sub‐scores ranged between .623 and .869.

Conclusions

The ACTIVLIM‐Hemo is an easy‐to‐administer, valid and reliable alternative to HAL in assessing activity limitations in PwH. Its invariant scale can be used across conditions and time to compare the functional status of PwH over a wide measurement range.
Effect of sofosbuvir and velpatasvir therapy on clinical outcome in hepatitis C virus patients with decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Tahata Yuki , Sakamori Ryotaro , Maesaka Kazuki , Doi Akira , Yamada Ryoko , Kodama Takahiro , Hikita Hayato , Miyazaki Masanori , Nozaki Yasutoshi , Kaneko Akira , Oshita Masahide , Tanaka Satoshi , Imanaka Kazuho , Hiramatsu Naoki , Morishita Naoki , Ohkawa Kazuyoshi , Yakushijin Takayuki , Sakakibara Mitsuru , Iio Sadaharu , Doi Yoshinori , Tatsumi Tomohide , Takehara Tetsuo
Published: December 2022

Aim

To determine the impact of direct‐acting antiviral therapy on the long‐term prognosis of decompensated cirrhotic patients.

Methods

A total of 37 patients with hepatitis C virus‐induced decompensated cirrhosis treated with sofosbuvir and velpatasvir (SOF/VEL group) were prospectively enrolled. For historical control, 65 hepatitis C virus‐positive decompensated cirrhotic patients who did not receive direct‐acting antiviral therapy were included (control group). The incidence rates of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), decompensated events with hospitalization, and overall survival were compared between both groups.

Results

A total of 41 patients experienced decompensated events during 15.0 months in the control group, and six patients during 21.6 months in the SOF/VEL group. The cumulative incidence rates of decompensated events after 2 years were significantly higher in the control group (53.1%) than in the SOF/VEL group (14.5%; p < 0.001). A total of 27 patients died within 22.0 months in the control group, and three patients died within 25.6 months in the SOF/VEL group. The overall survival rates after 2 years were significantly lower in the control group (67.6%) than in the SOF/VEL group (91.3%; p = 0.010). A total of 13 patients in the control group developed HCC during 15.8 months, and 10 patients during 17.3 months in the SOF/VEL group. The HCC incidence rates after 2 years were 20.3% and 29.6% in the control and SOF/VEL groups, respectively, with no significant difference (p = 0.327).

Conclusions

SOF/VEL therapy may suppress the development of decompensated events and improve the prognosis in decompensated cirrhotic patients; however, the incidence of HCC remains prevalent in these patients irrespective of SOF/VEL therapy.
Comparing surgeon‐ and nephrologist‐inserted Tenckhoff catheters: experience from a metropolitan centre in Sydney
Authors: Shah Nasir , Goswell Alexander , Cuesta Claire , Lemech Lubomyr , Katz Ivor
Published: December 2022

Background

Peritoneal dialysis (PD) is an effective home‐based form of dialysis. Although several factors limit its use, the timely and successful insertion of a PD catheter is essential for increased uptake.

Aims

This retrospective observational study was performed at a tertiary teaching hospital in Sydney with the aim of comparing outcomes of PD catheter insertion using a percutaneous, modified Seldinger technique utilised by a trained nephrologist to the traditional surgical insertion using a mini‐laparotomy.

Results

Over an 8‐year period, 194 PD catheters were inserted. Aside from lower body mass indexes in the nephrologist‐led interventions (P = 0.02), patient demographics were well matched. Time‐to‐insertion was significantly shorter with the percutaneous technique (P < 0.001). Univariant logistic regression noted no difference in the complication rate between the nephrologist‐inserted and surgically inserted groups (likelihood ratio, 1.59; P = 0.08). There were differences in the type of adverse outcomes with each technique. Surgical procedures were more likely to have exit site leaks (P = 0.009) and peritonitis (P = 0.004), whereas procedure abandonment (P = 0.009) was more common in nephrologist‐led procedures.

Conclusions

The current study highlights that with careful patient selection, trained nephrologists in metropolitan areas can successfully insert PD catheters. Our experience noted fewer delays to catheter insertion, with similar total complication rates.