bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Shared accountability in distributed leadership for improved healthcare access: a study of a US dental institution
Authors: Bass A. Erin , Milosevic Ivana , Uhl-Bien Mary , Nadkarni Sucheta
Published: August 2022

Purpose

Accountability within distributed leadership (DL) is critical for DL to drive positive outcomes in health services organizations. Despite this, how accountability emerges in DL is less clear. This study aims to understand how accountability emerges in DL so that distributed leaders can drive improvements in healthcare access – an increasingly important outcome in today’s health services environment.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use an instrumental case study of a dental institution in the USA, “Environ,” as it underwent a strategic change to improve healthcare access to rural populations. The authors focused on DL occurring within the strategic change and collected interview, observation and archival data.

Findings

The findings demonstrate accountability in DL emerged as shared accountability and has three elements: personal ownership, agentic actions and a shared belief system. Each of these was necessary for DL to advance the strategic change for improved healthcare access.

Practical implications

Top managers should be cognizant of the emergence processes driven by DL. This includes enabling pockets of employees to connect, align and link up so that ideas, processes and practices can emerge and allow for shared accountability in DL.

Originality/value

The overarching contribution of this research is identifying shared accountability in DL and its three elements: personal ownership, agentic actions and a shared belief system. These elements serve as a platform to demonstrate “how DL works” in a healthcare organization.
Organizational legitimation of body-worn camera use in the Swedish private security industry
Authors: Hansen Löfstrand Cecilia , Backman Christel
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The authors set out to show how key private security industry actors in Sweden establish body-worn cameras (BWCs) as a tool to protect private security officers from the public the officers police and to improve the work environment of the officers.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors conducted qualitative semi-structured interviews with key personnel involved in the implementation of BWCs. The authors' analysis focused on delineating recurrent moral stories and affirmative environments to show how BWC use was made legitimate as a work environment tool.

Findings

The authors show how BWC use by private security officers patrolling public spaces in Sweden is legitimized by four organizational narratives: (1) the vulnerable security officer and the caring employer, (2) defenders of protective regulation, (3) moral selves and morally dubious others and (4) function creep and moral guardians. The authors explain how such organizational narratives are key to establishing and legitimizing the use of BWCs as a tool to improve the work environment of private security guards, and how certain narrative environments promote such organizational narratives in Sweden to improve the work environment of private security guards.

Originality/value

The authors' findings in this article add to a small but growing literature on BWC use in policing outside of the USA and the UK as well as to the hitherto very limited research from the work environment and managerial perspectives. The authors illustrate the importance of organizational narratives and narrative environments for understanding organizational change involving legitimation of new technologies.
How far corporate governance and firms' characteristics are relevant toward environmental sustainability? An empirical investigation
Authors: Ghosh Suchismita , Pareek Ritu , Sahu Tarak Nath
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The study aims to focus to ascertain the consequence of corporate management and different firms' characteristics on environmental sustainability.

Design/methodology/approach

The sample includes 78 non-financial NSE 100 listed companies from 2010 to 2020. Here, the static and Arellano–Bond dynamic panel data model is considered to determine the effect of corporate governance mechanisms and different firms’ characteristics on environmental performance.

Findings

The empirical findings of this study indicate that board size is negatively related with environmental sustainability. Similarly a positive influence of age, size and market-based financial performance can be seen on sustainability of the firm.

Originality/value

The present study takes an initiative to determine endogeneity and the dynamism effect of corporate governance factors and specific firms' characteristics on environmental sustainability from an emergent nation.
Cultural influences on the quality of corporate social responsibility disclosures: an examination of carbon disclosure
Authors: Perkins Jon , Jeffrey Cynthia , Freedman Martin
Published: August 2022

Purpose

As more companies choose to disclose corporate social responsibility (CSR) information, it is important to gain an understanding of the quality of disclosures and factors that influence quality. The purpose of this study is to examine the role of culture as a determinant of the quality of voluntary carbon emission disclosures.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses regression analysis to test the influence of culture on the quality of carbon disclosures. The sample of this study comes from companies who voluntarily report to the carbon disclosure project. The authors operationalize the quality of disclosure using the Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index. The authors operationalize cultural values using both Hofstede’s metrics (Hofstede, 1980) and Project GLOBE (House et al., 2004).

Findings

This study predicts and finds a negative relationship between quality of disclosure and high individualism scores. This study also finds that the quality of disclosure is lower for companies located in countries with high power distance scores. The authors find that the quality of disclosure is higher for companies located in countries with gender/assertiveness scores that indicate a higher value on the environment than on the importance of economic growth. While quality is marginally related to uncertainty avoidance using Hofstede's measure, quality is not related to uncertainty avoidance using the Project GLOBE metric. The authors did not find a hypothesized negative significant relationship between quality and long-term orientation.

Practical implications

Quality is a measure of importance to users and regulators of disclosures.

Social implications

National culture is an important determinant of CSR disclosure quality.

Originality/value

This study extends the previous research by using a metric for quality based on an independent evaluation of disclosures and by the role of culture in a multi-country study.
Not all CSR initiatives are created equally: the theoretical implications
Authors: Nord Walter R. , MacAulay K. Doreen , Kelso Jessica Lindsay
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this conceptual paper is twofold: to investigate the nature of corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives, and to discuss the effects that several factors have on CSR outcomes by drawing on concepts from organization theory.

Design/methodology/approach

A qualitative approach is used, wherein the authors review the extant literature on CSR theory with the goal of expanding upon theoretical perspectives underlying this area of research.

Findings

The findings show that both initiation and implementation influence CSR outcomes, and that these processes vary based on the degrees of centralization and routineness. In addition, the “fit” between the problems and the processes used influences the benefits of CSR. In short, the authors show that not all CSR initiatives are created equally.

Research limitations/implications

This paper does not address the potential magnitude of fit, only the direction of fit, and does not consider other factors that would play a role in successful initiation and implementation. It does not consider nor estimate the costs associated with different approaches to CSR activities. Lastly, it does not consider the history of an organization when discussing various CSR structures.

Originality/value

This study enriches CSR literature by filling the gap in the extant CSR literature and by proposing a more holistic view to CSR initiatives. The authors offer six propositions that purport the effects that various factors – (de)centralization, fit, CSR–human resources synergies, transformational leadership and pride – have on a company’s CSR activities and recruitment efforts.
Phenological and physiological advantages of invasive annuals are strengthened by nitrogen enrichment
Authors: Valliere Justin M. , Flores Rhay G. , Cason Branden J. , Hernández Mayra J.
Published: August 2022

Anthropogenic nitrogen (N) deposition exerts profound influence on the composition and function of native ecosystems, commonly resulting in reduced plant richness and increases in nonnative plant invasion. Identifying differences in plant N responses and functional traits could help to explain the ongoing invasion and biological impoverishment of ecosystems subject to N deposition.

We compared the growth, emergence phenology and functional traits of 30 native and invasive annual plant species under high and low N availability, with the goal of evaluating if invasives exhibit functionally dissimilar responses to N compared with the native species they displace.

Invasives grew larger than natives, especially under increased N availability. Overall, invasives and natives did not differ in emergence phenology. However, these groups of species differed in relationships between growth and days to emergence, and N addition further strengthened these differences; invasives consistently grew larger than natives that emerged around the same time, whereas natives showed a strong negative effect of delayed emergence on plant growth.

Relative N responses for measures of plant growth and allocation did not differ between native and invasive species, but invasives exhibited greater plasticity in physiological traits. This included significantly lower leaf N content, higher CN ratios and greater water‐use efficiency (WUE) in plants grown under high N. Invasives also showed functionally different patterns of growth and water use. Across species, invasives showed a positive relationship between shoot growth and WUE. Native species showed a trade‐off between root allocation and WUE, whereas invasives displayed high values for WUE even despite reduced root: shoot ratios under high N.

Our results highlight the ability of invasives to rapidly accrue biomass, disproportionately benefit from early emergence and N addition and use water efficiently despite rapid growth. Natives, on the other hand, pay a higher cost for delayed emergence and may experience trade‐offs between growth and water use. The more pronounced functional differences between natives and invasives observed under high N likely play an important role in driving invasion and reduced species diversity under N enrichment. These differences could be used to inform successful management strategies for N‐impacted and water‐limited ecosystems.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
The role of diversity, body size and climate in dung removal: A correlative and experimental approach
Authors: Gebert Friederike , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf , Kronbach Patrick , Peters Marcell K.
Published: August 2022

The mechanisms by which climatic changes influence ecosystem functions, that is, by a direct climatic control of ecosystem processes or by modifying richness and trait compositions of species communities, remain unresolved.

This study is a contribution to this discourse by elucidating the linkages between climate, land use, biodiversity, body size and ecosystem functions.

We disentangled direct climatic from biodiversity‐mediated effects by using dung removal by dung beetles as a model system and by combining correlative field data and exclosure experiments along an extensive elevational gradient on Mt. Kilimanjaro, Tanzania.

Dung removal declined with increasing elevation, being associated with a strong reduction in the richness and body size traits of dung beetle communities. Climate influenced dung removal rates by modifying biodiversity rather than by direct effects. The biodiversity–ecosystem effect was driven by a change in the mean body size of dung beetles. Dung removal rates were strongly reduced when large dung beetles were experimentally excluded.

This study underscores that climate influences ecosystem functions mainly by modifying biodiversity and underpins the important role of body size for dung removal.
Extremely low level of genetic diversity in Gentiana yakushimensis, an endangered species in Yakushima Island, Japan
Authors: Ishii Naohiro I. , Hirota Shun K. , Tsunamoto Yoshihiro , Matsuo Ayumi , Abe Harue , Suyama Yoshihisa
Published: August 2022

Rare or endangered species largely contributing to global biodiversity are essential components of ecosystems. Because genetic diversity depends not only on apparent population size but also demographic processes, the conservation priority of endangered species based on population genetics needs to be assessed by comparison with common congeners and demographic events. In this study, we performed population genetic analysis for Gentiana yakushimensis Makino, a rare and endangered plant species with an isolated distribution on Yakushima Island, Japan. We performed comparison of genetic diversity with the congener (Gentiana triflora Pall. var. japonica [Kusn.] H.Hara), demographic inference, and bottleneck test based on genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphisms. The result was that G. yakushimensis had an extremely low genetic diversity level and a high inbreeding coefficient level compared with those of the congener. The population of G. yakushimensis was estimated to experience an expansion during the Last Glacial Maximum and a recent bottleneck by the demographic inference and the bottleneck test. Therefore, the low level of genetic diversity of this species might have resulted from the impact of the recent bottleneck and the long‐term maintenance of a small population size. Due to the long lifespan of the genus Gentiana, the current level of genetic diversity probably does not reflect a large part of recent demographic events, which requires long‐term monitoring of changes in genetic diversity to identify the time lag between the reduction in apparent population size and genetic diversity as a future outlook.
Comparison of SARIMA model and Holt‐Winters model in predicting the incidence of Sjögren's syndrome
Authors: Wang Shuai , Wei Feiran , Li Han , Wang Zemin , Wei Pingmin
Published: August 2022

Objective

To analyze the prevalence trend of Sjögren's syndrome in the Department of Immunology and Rheumatology of Nanjing Zhongda Hospital from January 2015 to December 2019, and compare the application of SARIMA model and Holt‐Winters model in predicting the number of cases of Sjögren's syndrome.

Methods

All of the data from the Department of Immunology and Rheumatology of Nanjing Zhongda Hospital were collected. The number of monthly cases from January 2015 to December 2019 was regarded as the training set, and it was used to establish the SARIMA model and Holt‐Winters model. The number of monthly incidences from January 2020 to December 2020 was regarded as the test set, and it was used to check the model performance.

Results

The optimal model of SARIMA is ARIMA (0,1,1) (2,1,1)12 model, and the optimal model of Holt‐Winters model is Holt‐Winters addition model. It was found that the Holt‐Winters addition model produced the smallest error.

Conclusion

Holt‐Winters addition model produces better prediction accuracy of the model.
Glucose derived carbon nanosphere (CSP) conjugated TTK21, an activator of the histone acetyltransferases CBP/p300, ameliorates amyloid‐beta 1–42 induced deficits in plasticity and associativity in hippocampal CA1 pyramidal neurons
Authors: Singh Akash K. , Neo Sin H. , Liwang Christine , Pang Karen K. L. , Leng Jason C. K. , Sinha Sarmistha H. , Shetty Mahesh S. , Vasudevan Madavan , Rao Vinay J. , Joshi Ila , Eswaramoorthy Muthusamy , Pavon Maria V. , Sheila Ang R. , Navakkode Sheeja , Kundu Tapas K. , Sajikumar Sreedharan
Published: August 2022

The master epigenetic regulator lysine acetyltransferase (KAT) p300/CBP plays a pivotal role in neuroplasticity and cognitive functions. Recent evidence has shown that in several neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's disease (AD), the expression level and function of p300/CBP are severely compromised, leading to altered gene expression causing pathological conditions. Here, we show that p300/CBP activation by a small‐molecule TTK21, conjugated to carbon nanosphere (CSP) ameliorates Aβ‐impaired long‐term potentiation (LTP) induced by high‐frequency stimulation, theta burst stimulation, and synaptic tagging/capture (STC). This functional rescue was correlated with CSP‐TTK21‐induced changes in transcription and translation. Mechanistically, we observed that the expression of a large number of synaptic plasticity‐ and memory‐related genes was rescued, presumably by the restoration of p300/CBP mediated acetylation. Collectively, these results suggest that small‐molecule activators of p300/CBP could be a potential therapeutic molecule for neurodegenerative diseases like AD.
Barriers to activity engagement in older adulthood: Results of a community survey
Authors: Scott Julia E. T. , Luszcz Mary A. , Walker Ruth , Mazzucchelli Trevor , Windsor Tim D.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

Losses that occur with age can create barriers to meaningful activity engagement, a crucial aspect of ageing well. Research on this topic is frequently qualitative, with few studies accessing large community samples. This study (a) assessed the frequency specific personal and environmental barriers (such as poor health and limited transport access), identified by older adults in previous research, were endorsed; (b) used latent class analysis (LCA) to identify population subgroups based on combinations of these barriers, and (c) examined associations of subgroups with purpose in life and quality of life.

Methods

Four hundred and thirty‐two randomly selected Australian adults aged 65+ years (average age 76.7, 58% female) completed a telephone survey. They were asked whether certain barriers affected engagement and provided data on sense of purpose and quality of life.

Results

Physical health/mobility were the most frequently reported barriers, followed by sensory difficulties, financial limitations, and caring responsibilities. The LCA revealed up to three subgroups/classes of participants according to the barriers endorsed. Class 1 had low endorsement of all barriers, including physical health. The majority of Class 2 endorsed physical health barriers and other barriers more frequently than Class 1. Class 3 were comparable to Class 2, but also frequently endorsed community access barriers. Class 1 were younger and reported a greater sense of purpose and higher quality of life.

Conclusions

Physical health/mobility barriers to engagement are those most frequently endorsed by older adults. These barriers may increase vulnerability to, or exacerbate the impact of additional barriers, such as sensory difficulties, access to transport and lack of finances.
Total joint replacement may be a valuable treatment for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with osteoarthritis, but uptake is low
Authors: O'Brien Penny , Thuraisingam Sharmala , Bunzli Samantha , Lin Ivan , Bessarab Dawn , Coffin Juli , Choong Peter F. M. , Dowsey Michelle M.
Published: August 2022

Background

Despite bearing a higher burden of osteoarthritis, little research has examined disparities in the access, utilisation and surgical outcomes associated with total joint replacement (TJR) among Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study to compare the sociodemographic and clinical characteristics of all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander and non‐Aboriginal patients who underwent primary hip and knee replacement at St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne between 1996 and 2019.

Results

A total of 10 277 primary total knee or hip replacements were performed in the 1996–2019 study period, of which 49 (0.5%) patients identified as either Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients were younger (61.7 ± 11.8 vs. 68.3 ± 10.3 years; P < 0.001), recorded higher Body Mass Index scores (median (IQR), 36.0 (29.5–41.4) vs. 30.8 (27.0–35.3); P < 0.001) and were more likely to experience multiple co‐morbidities at the time of surgery. Despite these findings, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander patients did not experience higher complication rates and experienced comparable, clinically meaningful quality of life improvements 12‐months post‐surgery.

Conclusions

TJR appears to be a valuable treatment option for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people with end‐stage osteoarthritis. Our study was limited by the small number of procedures conducted in patients who identify as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander. Further research is needed to understand why uptake of TJR by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is low.
Prominence of NUDT15 genetic variation associated with 6‐mercaptopurine tolerance in a genome‐wide association study of Japanese children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Tanaka Yoichi , Urayama Kevin Y. , Mori Makiko , Arakawa Yuki , Hasegawa Daisuke , Noguchi Yasushi , Yanagimachi Masakatsu , Keino Dai , Ota Setsuo , Akahane Koshi , Inukai Takeshi , Hangai Mayumi , Kawaguchi Takahisa , Takagi Masatoshi , Koh Katsuyoshi , Matsuda Fumihiko , Manabe Atsushi
Published: August 2022

Inherited genetic variation is associated with 6‐mercaptopurine (6‐MP) dose reduction and frequent toxicities induced by 6‐MP. However, the tolerable dose for 6‐MP is not fully predicted by the known variation in NUDT15 and TPMT among Asian children with acute lymphoblastic leukaemia (ALL). We performed a genome‐wide association study (GWAS) related to 6‐MP dose among Japanese children with ALL. This GWAS comprised 224 patients previously enrolled in Tokyo Children's Cancer Study Group clinical studies with replication attempted in 55 patients. Genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotypes were evaluated for association with average 6‐MP dose during the initial 168 days of maintenance therapy. Possible associations were observed across five gene‐coding regions, among which only variants at 13q14.2 were significant and replicated genome‐wide (rs116855232, NUDT15, β = −10.99, p = 3.7 × 10−13). Notable findings were observed for variants in AFF3 (rs75364948, p = 2.05 × 10−6) and CHST11 (rs1148407, p = 2.09 × 10−6), but were not replicated possibly due to small numbers. A previously reported candidate SNP in MTHFR was associated with higher average 6‐MP dose (rs1801133, p = 0.045), and FOLH1 (rs12574928) was associated in an evaluation of candidate regions (padjust = 0.013). This study provides strong evidence that rs116855232 in NUDT15 is the genetic factor predominantly associated with 6‐MP tolerable dose in children in Japan.
Clinical presentation of bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) infections after BCG instillation therapy
Authors: Nurminen Pertti , Ettala Otto , Uusitalo‐Seppälä Raija , Högerman Mikael , Kaipia Antti , Boström Peter J.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

To investigate the timing of the clinical presentation of various types of bacille Calmette–Guérin (BCG) infections in a Finnish population of patients with bladder cancer treated with BCG instillation therapy.

Patients and Methods

We identified patients with a history of post‐instillation BCG infection from 1996 to 2016 using the Finnish Cancer Registry and the Finnish National Infectious Diseases Registry. We categorised infections as systemic if the infection was found in the non‐urogenital system and genitourinary (GU) if the infection affected the urogenital tract. We calculated the time interval between the last BCG instillation and the presentation of the infection. The infection was considered late if the time interval was ≥1 year.

Results

A total of 100 patients with BCG infection were identified during the study period. In all, 39 (39%) infections presented as systemic and 61 (61%) were in the GU tract. The majority of the systemic infections presented rapidly after the last instillation, while five (13%) presented after a latency of ≥1 year. The presentation of GU infections was more heterogeneous, with 12 (20%) presenting as late infections.

Conclusion

This study confirms the concept of early and late infection types, especially among systemic infections. However, late infections appeared to be rarer than previously described. Urologists should be aware of the possibility of late BCG infection if patients develop symptoms even several years after the BCG regimen.
A freshwater perspective on the United Nations decade for ecosystem restoration
Authors: Cooke Steven J. , Frempong‐Manso Acacia , Piczak Morgan L. , Karathanou Eirini , Clavijo Cristhian , Ajagbe Stephen O. , Akeredolu Excellence , Strauch Ayron M. , Piccolo John
Published: August 2022

Globally, ecosystems have suffered from anthropogenic stressors as we enter the sixth mass extinction within the Anthropocene. In response, the UN has declared 2020–2030 the Decade for Ecosystem Restoration, aiming to mitigate ecosystem degradation and biodiversity loss. Freshwater ecosystems are disproportionately impacted relative to marine or terrestrial systems and ecological restoration is needed to preserve biodiversity and ecosystem services. Paradoxically, freshwater is among Earth's most vital ecosystem services. Here we identify meaningful considerations from a freshwater perspective that will lead to progression toward the restoration of freshwater ecosystems: work across terrestrial and freshwater boundaries during restoration, emulate nature, think and act on a watershed scale, design for environmental heterogeneity, mitigate threats alongside restoration, identify bright spots, think long term (a decade is not long enough), and embrace social–ecological systems thinking. Further, we reflect upon the three implementation pathways identified by the UN to translate these considerations into practice in hopes of “bending the curve” for freshwater biodiversity and ecosystems. Pathway 1, building a global movement, could create a network to share experiences and knowledge promoting vicarious learning, ultimately leading to more effective restoration. Pathway 2, generating political support, will be necessary to institutionalize ecosystem protection and restoration by demonstrating the value of freshwater ecosystems and biodiversity. Pathway 3, building technical capacity, aims to improve the current and often ineffective restoration toolbox by incorporating evidence syntheses (i.e., appraisal of evidence base) and Indigenous ways of knowing (i.e., two eyed seeing). Given that freshwater ecosystems are in dire need of repair, it is our hope that these considerations and implementation pathways will contribute to an actionable and productive Decade for Ecosystem Restoration.
How do genetic tests answer questions about neurodevelopmental differences? A sociological take
Authors: Navon Daniel
Published: August 2022

When it comes to neurodevelopmental differences, a genetic test result can provide compelling answers. However, it is not always clear what the relevant question is. If we want to understand the impact of a genetic diagnosis such as NGLY1 deficiency or the fragile X, trisomy X, or 22q11.2 deletion syndromes on people with neurodevelopmental differences, we must be mindful about what exactly a genetic test is supposed to tell us, where and for whom it matters, and which avenues for action it opens or forecloses. These are all moving targets. Specifically, I discuss the shifting ways a genetic test result can answer the following questions. What is this person's diagnosis? What symptoms and developmental differences are they likely to experience? What is the best way to approach their development, treatment, and care? Will they have a life worth living? When you unpack the sociological nuances of each question, the history behind them, and the uneven ways they are asked, the meanings of the answers change quite radically. I discuss the implications for social inequalities and urge experts and stakeholders to exercise agency when they interpret a genetic diagnosis.

What this paper adds

The questions a genetic test can answer depend on a range of social factors.

Whether and how a genetic test result affects diagnosis, identity, prognosis, and treatment is a moving target.

Genetics creates questions about a life worth living that it cannot answer alone.

Stakeholders must choose the questions about neurodevelopmental differences that genetics should answer.
Influence of Hamiltonella defensa infection and predator type on anti‐predator behaviours in pea (Acyrthosiphon pisum) and potato aphids (Macrosiphum euphorbiae)
Authors: Humphreys Rosalind K. , Ruxton Graeme D. , Karley Alison J.
Published: August 2022

Facultative endosymbionts can induce benefits and costs to their aphid hosts. In the pea aphid, Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), infection with the γ‐proteobacterium Hamiltonella defensa Moran et al. can confer resistance against parasitoids, but may also reduce the frequency of aggressive and escape behaviours exhibited in response to predators. In potato aphids, Macrosiphum euphorbiae (Thomas) (Hemiptera: Aphididae), H. defensa does not appear to influence susceptibility to parasitism, but its impact on anti‐predator behaviours remains unexplored. Here we investigated defensive behaviours in two pea aphid lines (differing in H. defensa‐infection status) and four potato aphid lines (that additionally differed in genotype‐associated parasitism susceptibility) when faced with foraging ladybirds – Adalia bipunctata (L.) (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) – and lacewings – Chrysoperla carnea (Stephens) (Neuroptera: Chrysopidae). In response to ladybirds, symbiont‐infected pea aphids exhibited proportionately fewer evasive defences (dropping and walking away) than non‐infected (cured) pea aphids, but more frequent aggressive kicking. Ladybirds provoked more evasive, aggressive, and total defensive behaviours than lacewings. For potato aphids, symbiont status, predator type, and aphid genotype (i.e., assumed parasitism susceptibility) all influenced behavioural repertoires. Overall, infected lines showed greater differentiation in behaviours in response to the two predators than the uninfected lines. The presence of the symbiont H. defensa may be a key determinant of aphid anti‐predator behaviours, but the fitness consequences of this are unresolved. In our study, neither symbiont infection status nor aphid genotype affected the number of aphids consumed by predators.
Spatial variation in ant–tree bipartite networks is driven by a bottom‐up process
Authors: Wang Bo , Ma Li‐Bin , Pan Bo , Dong Yiyi , Huang Jian‐Feng , Peng Yan‐Qiong
Published: August 2022

Spatial shifts in the organisation and pattern of ecological networks may be driven by species composition turnover, changes in species abundance and/or abiotic effects on species interactions.

To test the above assumptions, we collected arboreal ants and recorded host tree species from five latitudinal sites in Xishuangbanna, China. We constructed bipartite networks and compared spatial variation in species composition, interactions and stability change. We also analysed the relationship between network structure metrics and network stability.

Results showed that ant composition differed significantly among the five sites, primarily determined by weaver ants (Oecophylla smaragdina) and Crematogaster ant species. Dominant tree species included Ficus (32 individuals), Hevea (14 individuals), Castanopsis (11 individuals) and Pittosporopsis (8 individuals). Ant richness was positively correlated with tree richness, suggesting that host trees support ant diversity as a fundamental environment. The ant–tree bipartite networks showed low connectance, high specificity and low niche overlap. Links per species and network node were positively correlated with network stability, whereas connectance, nestedness, specificity and niche overlap were not.

Ants and trees formed a nonspecific and sparse bipartite network, and the number of nodes and links per species promoted network stability. Because plant richness was positively related to ant richness, and because arboreal ants feed predominantly on extrafloral nectaries, seeds, insects and honeydew secreted from hemipteran insects, we believe the bottom‐up process plays a central role in determining ant–tree interaction networks.
Density‐dependent and environmental influences on juvenile walleye Sander vitreus (Mitchill) survivorship in northern Wisconsin lakes
Authors: Zebro Logan R. , Mrnak Joseph T. , Shaw Stephanie L. , Chipps Steven R. , Sass Greg G.
Published: August 2022

Walleye, Sander vitreus (Mitchill), natural recruitment has declined in northern Wisconsin lakes over time. Age‐0 and age‐1 walleye relative abundance (catch per unit effort; CPE) data from northern Wisconsin (1986–2019) were used to test for abiotic (i.e. lake characteristics and temperature variables) and biotic (age‐0 and age‐1 CPE) factors influencing age‐0 to age‐1 walleye mortality. Age‐0 to age‐1 walleye mortality was elevated at high age‐0 CPE and variable at low age‐0 CPE, which indicated strong density‐dependence. Environmental factors such as spawning and ontogenetic phenology (climate change and ice‐off dates), trophic mismatches, and metabolic and consumptive demand influenced age‐0 to age‐1 walleye mortality less strongly. Elevated age‐0 to age‐1 walleye mortality at low age‐0 CPE supports previous findings of depensatory recruitment dynamics in northern Wisconsin walleye populations. Additional research is needed to address elevated juvenile walleye mortality at low adult stock sizes and/or with declining natural recruitment to inform management decisions.
Cystic lesions of the retrorectal space
Authors: Brown Ian S , Sokolova Anna , Rosty Christophe , Graham Rondell P
Published: August 2022

Cysts of the retrorectal space comprise a heterogeneous group of rare lesions. Most develop from embryological remnants and include tailgut cysts, dermoid cysts, rectal duplication cysts, anal canal duplication cysts, sacrococcygeal teratomas and anterior meningocoele. Tailgut cyst is the most common cyst of developmental origin, usually presenting as a multilocular cystic mass with mucoid content and lined by multiple epithelial types. Compared with tailgut cysts, rectal duplication cysts display all layers of the large bowel wall including a well‐defined muscularis propria. Retrorectal cysts of non‐developmental origin are far less common and represent lesions that either infrequently involve the retrorectal space or undergo extensive cystic change. This review provides an overview of the various histological types of cystic lesions of the retrorectal space, divided into cysts of developmental origin and those of non‐developmental origin. A practical pathological and multidisciplinary approach to diagnosing these lesions is presented.
The adaptive function of construction of multiple non‐breeding nests in birds
Authors: Macqueen Elise Isabella , Ruxton Graeme Douglas
Published: August 2022

Several bird species construct multiple nests within a single breeding season that are not used for egg‐laying. This behaviour has puzzled researchers for over 100 years, as nests are costly in time and energy to build, and there is no apparent adaptive function. We review the empirical evidence for several suggested non‐exclusive functions and examine the plausibility of each. These functions are: (1) decoys to reduce predation or brood parasitism, (2) involvement in sexual selection and signalling of traits such as genetic quality or propensity for parental investment, (3) shelters for adults and/or fledglings, and (4) defence against nest usurpation. We argue that evidence for all these explanations is inconclusive, with correlational studies dominating the literature. We conclude that the idea that these nests evolved as decoys or as shelters for fledglings is unlikely and consider the most likely adaptive function to be signalling. Multiple nests are often involved in aspects of courtship, so are likely have some role in sexual selection in certain species. After pairing, individuals may be able to signal their parental abilities, inducing their partner to invest more in reproduction through differential allocation. We give suggestions for future work which we believe will advance our understanding of ancillary nest‐building.
Design of a europium‐activated lithium‐silicate cyan phosphor via cation substitution
Authors: Ye Shanshan , Luo Dan , Shi Lizhen , Mou Jianpeng , Du Junpeng , Wu Dewu , Zhou Jiangchong , Ding Jianyan , Wu Quansheng
Published: August 2022

Lithium‐containing silicates have been considered as a considerable alternative for luminescent materials. In this study, a novel cyan‐emitting phosphor, Na3LiHf2Si3O12: Eu2+, was successfully synthesized via cationic substitution with Na4Hf2Si3O12: Eu2+ as the initial model. The crystal structure, morphology, and luminescence performance of Na4‐xLixHf2Si3O12: Eu2+ were investigated in detail. The substitution of Li+ for Na+ site causes a significant blue‐shift of the emission band in the range of 550–500 nm and a smaller full width at half maximum. As a result, a cyan phosphor Na3LiHf2Si3O12: Eu2+ that can be effectively excited by near‐ultraviolet and high‐energy beams is obtained. The mechanism of emission regulation was proposed based on the transformation of crystal structure and luminescence performance. In addition, the thermal quenching and cathodoluminescence behaviors were also studied. The results show that cation substitution is an effective method to design new lithium‐containing silicate phosphors.
Acute small fiber neuropathy after Oxford‐AstraZeneca ChAdOx1‐S vaccination: A report of three cases and review of the literature
Authors: Abbott Molly G. , Allawi Zahra , Hofer Monika , Ansorge Olaf , Brady Stefen , Fadic Ricardo , Torres Gustavo , Knight Ravi , Calvo Margarita , Bennett David L. H. , Themistocleous Andreas C.
Published: August 2022

Small fiber neuropathy usually presents with gradual and progressive chronic length‐dependent pain. Acute small fiber neuropathy is rarely reported. Three patients with acute onset neuropathic pain after Oxford‐AstraZeneca ChAdOx1‐S vaccination are described. Two patients were identified at the Oxford University NHS Foundation Trust, Oxford, UK and one patient in Red de Salud UC Christus, Santiago, Chile. All patients underwent a clinical assessment that included a detailed neurological examination, laboratory investigations, nerve conduction studies, thermal threshold testing, and skin biopsy for intra‐epidermal nerve fiber density. Patients seen in Oxford underwent MRI of the brain and spinal cord. Cerebrospinal analysis was not performed. Neuropathic symptoms (burning pain, dysaesthesias) developed in the hands and feet within 2 weeks of vaccination. On clinical examination, there was pinprick and thermal hyposensitivity in the area of neuropathic pain. Laboratory investigation, nerve conduction tests, sympathetic skin responses, and MRI showed no relevant abnormalities. Thermal thresholds were abnormal and intra‐epidermal nerve fiber density in the lower leg was reduced. In two cases symptoms persist after several months. Three cases of definite acute small fiber neuropathy after Oxford‐AstraZeneca ChAdOx1‐S vaccination are described. At follow up, neuropathic pain was present in two of the patients.
“Were you wearing underwear?” Stigma and fears around sexual violence: A narrative of stranger rape and considerations for mental health nurses when working with survivors
Authors: Welfare‐Wilson Alison , J Betty
Published: August 2022

Accessible summary

What is known about the subject?

Although sexual violence is prevalent, incidents of stranger rape remain statistically uncommon.

Societal stigma and myths surrounding sexual violence are widespread.

An individual's experience in the immediate aftermath and beyond can be shaped by the perception/s of sexual violence which are held and expressed by those they come into contact with.

What this paper adds to existing knowledge?

This paper adds to the limited literature base and the population and practical‐knowledge gap around a specific form of sexual violence.

This paper also demonstrates the need for reflection and discussion in minimizing blame that can unconsciously be shifted onto survivors in the form of myths and stereotypical views of sexual violence.

What are the implications for practice?

Perceptions may be held around sexual violence, and by extension about the survivor, which may impede engagement and the building of trust within a therapeutic relationship.

Myths that are synonymous with rape and all forms of sexual violence can be held by professionals, and lead to blame, negative judgement and lack of empathy towards survivors.

Given the prevalence of sexual violence, this paper is applicable across all health and social care settings, and in particular mental health nursing professionals who may be more likely to meet people who have experienced sexual trauma.

Introduction

This narrative illustrates the lived experience of a specific form of sexual violence (stranger rape) and its resulting implications as experienced by the second author, which is discussed under the following headings: your body as a crime scene, how lived experience compares to the myth of the ‘real rape’ and the wellbeing and health consequences arising from the experience. [Correction added on 5 September 2022, after first online publication: The preceding paragraph has been corrected in this version.]

Aim

In their capacity as mental health nurses, the authors invite readers to consider the spoken, or more likely unheard stories of sexual violence, which are unfortunately commonplace among those who access mental health services.

Implications for Practice

For professionals holding the privileged position of hearing these stories, there is a need to be reflective as to how fear, and personal or professionally held myths and stigmatizing views of sexual violence, and by extension views towards the survivor, are carried into therapeutic spaces, and the implications these can have. Practical suggestions as to how to discuss and manage disclosure of sexual violence in the context of trauma informed care are also provided.
Randomized clinical trial comparing outcomes after fentanyl or ketamine‐dexmedetomidine analgesia in thoracolumbar spinal surgery in dogs
Authors: Lovell Stephanie , Simon Bradley , Boudreau Elizabeth C. , Mankin Joseph , Jeffery Nicholas
Published: August 2022

Background

Opioids are widely used for perioperative pain control in dogs undergoing spinal surgery, but alternatives may be required because data suggest that opioids exacerbate inflammation in the injured spinal cord and veterinary access to opioids may become more restricted in the future.

Objectives

To compare recovery of ambulation and other functions between spinal cord‐injured dogs receiving peri‐operative fentanyl and those receiving a ketamine‐dexmedetomidine combination.

Animals

A total of 102 client‐owned dogs undergoing decompressive surgery for thoracolumbar intervertebral disc herniation.

Methods

Randomized clinical trial. Dogs were randomized 1:1 to fentanyl or a ketamine‐dexmedetomidine combination for intra and postoperative analgesia. Primary outcome was time to recovery of ambulation; secondary outcomes were the postoperative Colorado Acute Pain Scale, the short‐form Glasgow Composite Measure Pain Scale, time to recovery of voluntary urination and time to unassisted eating.

Results

No difference was found in time to recovery of ambulation between groups (adjusted sub‐hazard ratio, 0.83; 95% confidence interval [CI], 0.55‐1.24; P = .36) or in pain scores (Colorado: χ2 = 14.74; P = .32; Glasgow: χ2 = 6.61; P = .76). Differences in time to recovery of eating and urination were small but favored ketamine‐dexmedetomidine (adjusted odds ratios, 3.31; 95% CI, 1.53‐7.16; P = .002 and 2.43; 95% CI, 1.00‐5.96; P = .05, respectively).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

There was no evidence that, at the doses used, fentanyl impaired ambulatory outcome after surgery for thoracolumbar intervertebral disc herniation in dogs. Pain control appeared similar between groups. Secondary outcomes suggested minor benefits associated with ketamine‐dexmedetomidine. The ketamine‐dexmedetomidine combination appears to be a reasonable alternative to peri‐operative opioids.
Five‐year outcomes in liver transplant patients receiving everolimus with or without a calcineurin inhibitor: Results from the CERTITUDE study
Authors: Saliba Faouzi , Duvoux Christophe , Dharancy Sébastien , Dumortier Jérôme , Calmus Yvon , Gugenheim Jean , Kamar Nassim , Salamé Ephrem , Neau‐Cransac Martine , Vanlemmens Claire , Durand François , Pageaux Georges‐Philippe , Hardwigsen Jean , Benkhatar Yasmina , Derquenne François , Conti Filomena
Published: August 2022

Background and Aims

To report 5‐year outcomes of the CERTITUDE study.

Methods

An observational study in patients with liver transplantation (LTx) compared the long‐term impact of immunosuppression (with/without a calcineurin inhibitor) on renal function, cancers, major cardiovascular events (MACEs) and other safety parameters. All patients completing the 6‐month SIMCER study were recruited and analysed according to treatment received at randomization and actual treatment received during the follow‐up.

Results

Of the 143 enrolled patients, 119 completed the 5‐year follow‐up (everolimus [EVR], n = 55; tacrolimus [TAC], n = 64). The mean absolute change in estimated glomerular filtration rate was not statistically different between both groups (TAC, −15.53 ml/min/1.73 m2 and EVR, –14.56 ml/min/1.73 m2). In the treatment subgroups based on actual treatment received, renal function was preserved better in the EVR subgroup compared with other subgroups (p = .051). Treated biopsy‐proven acute rejection was higher in the EVR group (15.4% vs. 6.4%); however, the majority of events were mild in severity. MACE occurred in 9.2% vs. 14.1% of patients in the EVR and TAC groups respectively (p = .370). De novo cancer was reported in 14 and 5 patients in EVR and TAC groups respectively. Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) recurrence was observed in the TAC group alone (n = 4). Adverse events and treatment discontinuation owing to an adverse event were higher in the EVR group.

Conclusions

The CERTITUDE study demonstrated that EVR‐ and TAC‐based regimens have comparable efficacy, safety and tolerability up to 5 years post‐LTx.