bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Risk factors for granulomas in children following immunization with aluminium‐adsorbed vaccines: A Danish population‐based cohort study
Authors: Hoffmann Stine Skovbo , Thiesson Emilia Myrup , Johansen Jeanne Duus , Hviid Anders
Published: July 2022

Background

Aluminium‐adsorbed vaccines may in some children cause severely itching nodules at the injection site, known as vaccination granulomas.

Objective

To investigate vaccine‐, child‐ and maternal‐level risk factors for the development of vaccination granulomas following immunization with aluminium‐adsorbed vaccines.

Methods

A Danish population‐based cohort study with 553 932 children born in Denmark from 1 January 2009 to 31 December 2018, vaccinated with an aluminium‐adsorbed vaccine during the first year of life, followed until 31 December 2020. Poisson regression was used to estimate granuloma rate ratios according to the type of adjuvant, accumulated dose of aluminium, timing of vaccination appointments, sex, gestational age, having siblings with granulomas, maternal age and maternal ethnicity.

Results

We identified 1901 vaccination granuloma cases (absolute risk, 0.34%). Among vaccine level factors, revaccination (third vs. first vaccination appointment, adjusted rate ratio [RR] 1.26, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.03–1.55), the specific adjuvant used (aluminium phosphate vs. hydroxide, RR 0.58, 95% CI 0.48–0.70) and dosage (≥1.0 mg vs. <1.0 mg, RR 1.34, 95% CI 1.19–1.52) were associated with risk of granulomas; the timing of vaccination appointments was not. Among child‐level factors, female sex (vs. males, RR 1.12, 95% CI, 1.02–1.22), prematurity (vs. term birth, RR 0.71, 95% CI, 0.54–0.93) and having sibling(s) with granulomas (vs. no siblings with granulomas, RR 46.15, 95% CI, 33.67–63.26) were associated with risk of granulomas. Among maternal‐level factors, non‐Danish ethnicity (vs. Danish, RR 0.51, 95% CI, 0.42–0.63) and young maternal age (<20 years vs. 20–39 years, RR 0.46, 95% CI 0.25–0.83) were associated with risk of granulomas.

Conclusions

Several risk factors for vaccination granulomas at the vaccine, child and maternal levels, were identified. Reducing the dose of aluminium or replacing aluminium hydroxide with aluminium phosphate could reduce the risk of granulomas. However, this must be balanced against the potential for reduced immunogenicity.
Systematic C‐reactive protein monitoring reduces hospital stay after laparoscopic ileal pouch–anal anastomosis. A comparative study of 158 consecutive patients with ulcerative colitis
Authors: de Ponthaud Charles , Guyard Clémence , Blondeau Marc , Giacca Massimo , Monsinjon Marie , Frontali Alice , Panis Yves
Published: July 2022

Aim

C‐reactive protein (CRP) is a common biomarker of inflammation which has largely been used to predict the risk of postoperative septic complications after colorectal surgery. However, no data exist concerning its potential benefit after ileal pouch–anal anastomosis (IPAA) for ulcerative colitis (UC). The aim of this study was to evaluate a CRP‐driven monitoring discharge strategy after laparoscopic IPAA for UC.

Methods

Since 2012, 158 patients undergoing a laparoscopic IPAA for UC have been included: 66 patients (CRP group) operated since 2016 had a CRP‐driven monitoring discharge on postoperative day 5 (POD 5) and were discharged on POD 6 if CRP < 100 mg/L; these patients were matched (according to age, gender, body mass index, IPAA in two or three steps) to 92 patients operated between 2012 and 2016 without any CRP monitoring (control group).

Results

Median length of hospital stay was shorter in the CRP than the control group (7 vs. 9 days; P < 0.001) and discharge on POD 6 occurred more frequently in the CRP group (47% vs. 7%, P < 0.001). No difference was observed between the two groups concerning overall morbidity (P = 0.980), surgical site infection (P = 0.554), Clavien–Dindo ≥ IIIa morbidity (P = 0.523), unplanned rehospitalization (P = 0.734) and 30‐day reoperation (P = 0.240).

Conclusion

CRP‐driven monitoring discharge strategy after laparoscopic IPAA for UC is associated with a significant reduction in length of hospital stay, without increasing morbidity, reoperation or rehospitalization rates.
The impact of postexercise blood flow restriction on local muscle endurance of a remote limb
Authors: Sandbach Paul J. , Carvajal Marlon S. , Uygur Mehmet , Dankel Scott J.
Published: July 2022

Background

Studies have examined the influence of postexercise blood flow restriction as a mechanism to activate muscle afferents and assess nonlocal muscle fatigue. Although these studies have assessed fatigue during maximal contractions, less is known about how these afferents may impact submaximal local muscle endurance, which was the purpose of the present study.

Methods

Individuals completed two testing visits which involved completing a set of elbow flexion exercises to volitional failure on the nondominant followed by the dominant arm. During both trials, a pneumatic cuff was placed at the top of the nondominant arm before exercise. This cuff was inflated to either 0% (control) or 70% (experimental) of the individual's arterial occlusion pressure immediately after the set was completed. We then evaluated how this impacted local muscle endurance of the dominant arm using a Bayesian paired samples t‐test with an uninformed prior width of 0.707 centred on 0.

Results

A total of 36 individuals completed the study (18 females). There was a greater discomfort present in the experimental trial when compared to the control trial (control: 4.5 standard deviation [SD]: 2.4); experimental: 5.8 [SD: 1.9]; BF10 = 61.46), but there were no differences in repetitions completed on the dominant arm (control: 43 [SD: 9], experimental: 43 [SD: 10]; BF10 = 0.179).

Conclusion

Applying blood flow restriction postexercise induced sensations of discomfort but did not alter the local muscle endurance of the contralateral limb. These results suggest that increasing the activation of muscle afferents does not appear to alter the submaximal muscle endurance of a remote limb.
An empirical and expert‐knowledge hybrid approach to implement farmland habitat assessment for birds
Authors: Chen Szu‐Hung , Wu Chen‐Fa , Lin Da‐Li , Chen Tien‐Shui , Trac Luu Van Thong
Published: July 2022

Bird species survival and breeding depend on necessary abiotic and biotic components of farmland habitat. A hybrid model based on expert knowledge using Analytic Network Process (ANP) integrated with empirical data is a capable approach for conservation scientists to determine the habitat suitability for bird species. Our study assessed the suitable distribution in the ranges of farmland habitats for bird richness throughout Taiwan, focusing on the regularly occurring birds on farmlands. We established a framework for analyzing potential habitat indicators developed by expert interviews. Then, ANP was employed to compute the weight‐based priorities. By combining habitat indicators, we assessed and presented the spatial distribution of habitat suitability. The results show that southern and eastern regions of Taiwan with high habitat suitability scores cover 60,576.51 ha (27.98%) and 40,531.42 ha (30.09%), respectively. The model has an overall accuracy of 70.40%, showing a capable and reliable approach to assessing habitat suitability for bird richness on farmland. Our study highlights a valuable tool for the policy‐makers through exploring suitable farmland habitat spots, where further conservative practices and prudent biodiversity management should be applied.
Function and longevity of renal grafts from high‐KDPI donors
Authors: Molinari Michele , Kaltenmeier Christof , Liu Hao , Ashwat Eishan , Jorgensen Dana , Puttarajappa Chethan , Wu Christine M. , Mehta Rajil , Sood Puneet , Shah Nirav , Sharma Akhil , Thompson Ann , Reddy Dheera , Hariharan Sundaram
Published: July 2022

Background

High kidney‐donor profile index (KDPI) kidneys have a shorter survival than grafts with lower KDPI values. It is still unclear, however, whether their shorter longevity depends on an inferior baseline function, faster functional decline, or the combination of both.

Methods

We analyzed the estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) of 605 consecutive recipients of deceased donor kidney transplants (KT) at 1, 3, 6, 12, 18, 24, 36, 48, and 60 months. Comparisons were performed among four groups based on KDPI quartile: Group I‐KDPI ≤ 25% (n = 151), Group II‐KDPI 26–50% (n = 182), Group III‐KDPI 51–75% (n = 176), and Group IV‐KDPI 〉 75% (n = 96). Linear mixed model analysis was subsequently used to assess whether KDPI was independently associated with the decline in eGFR during the first 5‐years after KT. We also analyzed the incidence of delayed graft function (DGF), rejection within the first year after KT, patient survival, graft survival, and death censored graft survival based on KDPI group.

Findings

High‐KDPI grafts had lower eGFR immediately after KT, had a higher incidence of DGF and rejection. However, there were no signifcant differences in the adjusted rate (slope) of decline in eGFR among the four KDPI groups (P = .06). Although patient survival was signigicantly lower for recipients of high‐KDPI grafts, death‐censored graft survival was similar among the four KDPI groups (P = .33).

Conclusions

The shorter functional survival of high‐KDPI grafts seems to be due to their lower baseline eGFR rather than a more rapid functional decline after KT.
Cytomorphological spectrum of solitary fibrous tumour: revisited
Authors: Shastri Malvika , Gupta Nalini , Dey Pranab , Srinivasan Radhika , Radotra BishanDass
Published: July 2022

Background

Solitary fibrous tumour (SFT) is a tumour of mesenchymal origin. Its diagnosis on cytology is challenging, owing to variation in cellularity, sparsely distributed cellular and stromal components. Cytomorphological findings for this type of tumour have rarely been described in the literature—only a few case reports and the occasional case series have been presented thus far. We present the cytomorphological features of SFT with special emphasis on immunochemical findings.

Materials and Methods

We present cytological data from eight cases of histopathologically proven SFTs. The cytomorphological features, immunochemical markers and differential diagnostic entities on fine needle aspiration cytology are discussed.

Results

Fine needle aspiration was performed at various anatomical sites. Cytology smears showed variable cellularity, with tumour cells arranged in loose clusters and as singly scattered cells. Interlacing fascicles with palisading of cells was noted. The cells were predominantly spindle to elongated, having moderate cytoplasm with elongated wavy nuclei. These nuclei had fine to coarse chromatin, with inconspicuous to prominent nucleoli. There was prominent, metachromatically staining, amorphous to fibrillary, collagenous to myxoid matrix material associated with the tumour cells. Other findings included intranuclear pseudo‐inclusions, multinucleated giant cells and atypical mitoses. Cytological diagnoses offered varied from ‘spindle cell neoplasm’ to ‘spindle cell sarcoma’ or ‘suggestive of sarcoma’. Immunocytochemistry (ICC) performed on cell block sections showed positivity for STAT6, CD34 and Bcl‐2.

Conclusion

Cytological diagnosis of SFT can be challenging. A careful search for characteristic cytomorphological features is diagnostically helpful. The cytomorphology should be interpreted with caution, with an appropriate ICC panel, including STAT6 and CD34.
International shipping as a potent vector for spreading marine parasites
Authors: Pagenkopp Lohan Katrina M. , Darling John A. , Ruiz Gregory M.
Published: July 2022

Aim

The global shipping fleet, the primary means of transporting goods among countries, also serves as a major dispersal mechanism for marine invasive species. To date, researchers have primarily focussed on the role of ships in transferring marine macrofauna, often overlooking transfers of associated parasites, which can have larger impacts on naïve host individuals and populations. Here, we re‐examine three previously published metabarcode datasets targeting zooplankton and protists in ships' ballast water to assess the diversity of parasites across life stages arriving to three major US ports.

Location

Port of Hampton Roads in the Chesapeake Bay, Virginia; Ports of Texas City, Houston and Bayport in Galveston Bay, Texas; and Port of Valdez in Prince William Sound, Alaska.

Methods

We selected all known parasitic taxa, using sequences generated from the small subunit gene (SSU) from ribosomal RNA (rRNA) amplified from (1) zooplankton collected from plankton tows (35 and 80 μm datasets) and (2) eukaryotes collected from samples of ships' ballast water (3 μm dataset).

Results

In all three datasets, we found a broad range of parasitic taxa, including many protistan and metazoan parasites, that infect a wide range of hosts, from teleost fish to dinoflagellates. Parasite richness was highest in the 3 μm dataset and relatively uniform across arrival regions. Several parasite taxa were found in high relative abundance (based on number of sequences recovered) either in ships entering a single or across multiple regions.

Main Conclusions

The ubiquity, diversity and relative abundance of parasites detected demonstrate ships are a potent vector for spreading marine parasites across the world's oceans, potentially contributing to reported increases in outbreaks of marine diseases. Future research is urgently needed to evaluate the fate of parasites upon arrival and the efficacy of ballast water treatment systems to reduce future transfers and colonization.
Wage returns to workplace training in Myanmar
Authors: Hansen Henrik , Kanay De S. , Rand John , Trifković Neda
Published: July 2022

Motivation

Workplace training is an indispensable part of workforce skill development, but it is often provided irregularly and selectively in private enterprises. This is a missed opportunity given its potential to contribute to employee wellbeing and human capital development, and to boost firm performance.

Purpose

We examine workplace training provision and private returns to training in Myanmar, a country with a severely constrained formal educational system and underperforming private sector.

Methods and approach

We use linked employer–worker panel data from micro, small, and medium manufacturing enterprises in Myanmar. Our regression framework includes controls for production factors and other standard enterprise and owner characteristics, including employee and owner skills, and unobservable time‐invariant employee and firm heterogeneity.

Findings

First, we document a low prevalence of training in manufacturing enterprises. Second, we find a wage premium associated with training of about 8%. Third, we show that workplace training is offered selectively to workers and how, when this is the case, the wage gap between trained and untrained workers surpasses 10%. Fourth, we find that prior training (in other firms) or certified training do not contribute to higher wages, indicating that training is largely firm‐specific. Finally, we find that the wage returns to training are particularly high for women and among the least educated workers.

Policy implications

Considering the wage return as a lower bound of productivity gains from training, our results suggest that government support of workplace training programmes in private enterprises could help increase performance of the manufacturing sector in Myanmar. High returns to training among the least educated workers indicate that training could improve the overall income distribution in the economy.
Exercise restores endogenous H2S synthesis and mitochondrial function in the heart of old rats
Authors: Strutynska Nataliіa , Strutynskyi Ruslan , Mys Lidiia , Luchkova Alina , Korkach Yuliia , Goshovska Yulia , Chorna Snizhana , Sagach Vadym
Published: July 2022

Background

Ageing is accompanied by a decrease in endogenous hydrogen sulphide (H2S) synthesis and the development of mitochondrial dysfunction. The aim of our work was to study the possible participation of exercise training‐induced regulation of endogenous H2S production in the restoration of mitochondrial function in old rats.

Materials and Methods

Male rats were divided into three groups: adult, old and exercise‐trained old. Exercise training of old rats was performed for 4 weeks. The mRNA expression cystathionine‐γ‐lyase (CSE) and 3‐mercaptopyruvate sulfurtransferase (3‐MST) were determined using reverse transcription and real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis. Mitochondrial dysfunction was determined by mPTP opening, which was investigated by spectrophotometric registration of the swelling of mitochondria isolated from the rat heart. We also studied the effect of exercise on H2S content, oxidative stress and mtNOS activity.

Results

Exercise training in old animals significantly increased the expression of H2S‐synthesizing enzymes CSE and 3‐MST and restored endogenous H2S production in cardiac tissue and cardiac mitochondria to levels of adult animals. In addition, the training significantly reduced oxidative stress in old rats, in particular the rate of formation of •O2− and H2O2, diene conjugates and malondialdehyde levels in the mitochondria of the heart. Simultaneously, in the hearts of these animals, resistance of mPTP to the inducer of its opening of calcium ions was increased.

Conclusions

Thus, exercise training restores endogenous H2S production, and significantly reduces oxidative stress in cardiac mitochondria of old rats that are associated with the inhibition of calcium‐induced mPTP opening as an indicator of mitochondrial dysfunction.
CHA2DS2‐VASc and R2CHA2DS2‐VASc scores predict mortality in high cardiovascular risk population
Authors: D'Errico Maria Maddalena , Piscitelli Pamela , Mirijello Antonio , Santoliquido Mariateresa , Salvatori Mauro , Vigna Carlo , Vendemiale Gianluigi , Lamacchia Olga , Fontana Andrea , Copetti Massimiliano , Pontremoli Roberto , De Cosmo Salvatore A.
Published: July 2022

Background

The CHA2DS2‐VASc score, widely used to estimate cardioembolic risk in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), appears to be useful also in predicting vascular adverse events and death in different sets of patients without AF. The R2CHA2DS2‐VASc score, which includes renal impairment, allows a better prediction of death and thromboembolism in patients without AF. The aims of our study were to assess, in a large sample of patients at high cardiovascular (CV) risk, (i) the correlation between CHA2DS2‐VASc and R2CHA2DS2‐VASc with all‐cause mortality, and (ii) to compare the performances of CHA2DS2‐VASc and R2CHA2DS2‐VASc in predicting all‐cause mortality.

Methods

In this single‐centre prospective observational study, conducted at the Research Hospital ‘Casa Sollievo della Sofferenza’ between June 2016 and December 2018, 1017 CV patients at high risk of undergoing coronary angiography were enrolled.

Results

CHA₂DS₂‐VASc and R2CHA2DS2‐VASc scores significantly associated with all‐cause mortality. For each one‐point increase in CHA2DS2‐VASc or R2CHA2DS2‐VASc scores, mortality increased by almost 1.5‐fold. The R2CHA2DS2‐VASc score (C‐statistic = 0.71; 95% CI = 0.65–76) outperformed the CHA2DS2‐VASc score (C‐statistic = 0.66; 95% CI = 0.61–0.71) in predicting 4‐year mortality (delta C‐statistic = 0.05; 95% CI = 0.02–0.07). The better predictive ability of the R‐CHA2DS2‐VASc score was also demonstrated by an IDI = 0.027 (95% CI = 0.021–0.034, p < .00001) and a relative IDI = 62.8% (95% CI = 47.9%–81.3%, p < .00001). The R2CHA2DS2‐VASc score correctly reclassified the patients with a NRI = 0.715 (95% = 0.544–0.940, p < .00001).

Conclusions

The CHA₂DS₂‐VASc and R2CHA2DS2‐VASc scores are useful predictors of all‐cause mortality in subjects at high CV risk, with the R2CHA2DS2‐VASc score being the best performer.
The influence of food recommendations: Evidence from a randomized field experiment
Authors: Bookwala Kamal , Gallemore Caleb , Gómez‐Miñambres Joaquín
Published: July 2022

We report results from a randomized field experiment conducted at two food festivals. Our primary aim is to assess the impact of two types of recommendations commonly observed in food settings: most popular and chef's choice. We find that the most popular is the only recommendation that significantly increased consumers' demand relative to a baseline without recommendations. Furthermore, we find that this effect only holds for subjects from outside the local region. Our results are consistent with previous studies indicating information on peers' choices is a powerful influence on consumers' decisions in the absence of prior knowledge.
Does higher financial inclusion lead to better health outcomes? Evidence from developing and transitional economies
Authors: Banerjee Rajabrata , Maruta Admasu Asfaw , Donato Ronald
Published: July 2022

This study critically examines the effect of financial inclusion on life expectancy and infant mortality rates, and whether the effect is conditioned by possible threshold effects determined by the degree of income inequality and poverty levels. We draw our conclusions based on 61 developing and transitional economies in the period 2011–2017. Using an aggregate hybrid financial inclusion index, we show that financial inclusion exerts a direct positive effect on health outcomes. Furthermore, the effectiveness of financial inclusion as a policy tool to achieve better health outcomes is higher in societies where poverty and income inequality are more prevalent. These are significant findings from a policy perspective as greater financial inclusion offers the scope to invest in health capital and enhances the capacity for risk management among the most vulnerable populations in the face of health shocks.
Unidirectional trichomes in rice and prickles in Andropogon virginicus protect meristems from herbivory
Authors: Karban Richard , Shiojiri Kaori , Takabayashi Junji
Published: July 2022

Many grasses (Poaceae) defend their basal meristems with silicified trichomes, prickles, and spines. These leaf features are often unidirectional, pointing from the leaf base to the tip. They have been hypothesized to direct small herbivores away from vulnerable meristems, making grasses tolerant of the loss of leaf tissue. The aim of this study was to determine whether leaves of rice (Oryza sativa L.) and broomsedge (Andropogon virginicus L.) with silicified non‐glandular trichomes and prickles experience more chewing damage to leaf tips than to leaf bases, and whether the unidirectional leaf features were responsible for this pattern. Rice and A. virginicus leaves received 4× and 3× more chewing damage, respectively, to tips than middle sections, and 3× and 8× more damage to middle sections compared to basal sections. Removing trichomes and prickles from half of each leaf did not increase the overall frequency of damage to those leaves. However, removing silicified structures caused herbivores to increase the frequency of damage to leaf sections without trichomes and prickles, including basal leaf sections. Leaves of A. virginicus were experimentally folded in half such that the middle section was above the tip and basal sections; folded leaves received more damage to tips and bases than to middle sections. This indicates that herbivores do not choose to feed on the tallest leaf tissue but are likely influenced by the orientation of the silicified leaf features. Previous studies have shown variation in silicified structures on the leaves of many crop species. As these structures are involved in directing herbivores away from basal meristems, they should be considered as targets for crop breeding.
The incorporation of environmentally derived 87Sr/86Sr and Sr/Ca in early otolith formation of Chinook salmon
Authors: Chittaro Paul , Hegg Jens , Fuhrman Abby , Robichaux Devin , Doung Rothboury , Beckman Brian , Fisher Chris , Vervoort Jeff , Kennedy Brian
Published: July 2022

Effective species management often requires understanding patterns of movement and habitat use. A common approach in identifying where individuals reside relies upon chemical tracers from the environment that are incorporated into an individual's tissues. For fish, isotopes in their otoliths, specifically the portion of their otolith formed during their larval stage, have been used to identify the natal origin. Complicating this work, however, is the fact that during this life stage, there is a shift in the source of isotopes deposited onto the growing otolith from maternally to environmentally derived. The objective of this study was to identify the portion of the otolith representing this transition to environmentally derived isotopes so as to accurately investigate questions of natal origin for a threatened population of fall Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha). We exposed developing larvae to four treatments that differed in terms of their water strontium isotope ratio (87Sr/86Sr) and used change‐point analysis of otolith 87Sr/86Sr and strontium to calcium ratio (Sr/Ca) to identify the otolith radius corresponding to the transition to environmentally derived isotopes. Our results indicated this transition occurred, on average, at 132 μm (87Sr/86Sr; ±50 μm standard deviation) and 127 μm (Sr/Ca; ±29 μm) from the otolith core, which corresponded to the developmental time between hatching and exogenous feeding. A substantial proportion of our otoliths (i.e., 61%) did not show convergence between otolith and water 87Sr/86Sr by the end of the 113‐day experiment, which was likely due to the dietary contribution of marine‐based feed. Therefore, we were unable to recommend an otolith radius to target for the purposes of reconstructing natal origin apart from being beyond approximately 130 μm.
Melatonin has an inhibitory effect on MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 human breast cancer cell lines by inducing autophagy and apoptosis
Authors: Önder Gözde Özge , Sezer Gülay , Özdamar Saim , Yay Arzu
Published: July 2022

The goal of this work was to see how melatonin affected Bax and Bcl‐2 expression, as well as apoptosis and autophagy, in MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cell lines, which have distinct hormonal sensitivities.

In this study, to investigate the IC50 value of melatonin, varied melatonin concentrations were administered to MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 breast cancer cell lines. Moreover, cytotoxic activities were analyzed through MTT analysis. Five subgroups were created for both cell lines: control, IC50‐MeL, hIC50‐MeL, DMSO1, and DMSO2. To evaluate the apoptotic effect of melatonin, immunofluorescence staining methods of TUNEL, Bax, and Bcl‐2 were used, and to examine the effects of autophagy, immunofluorescence staining methods of Beclin‐1, LC3, and p62 were used.

In vitro results revealed upregulation of the expression of TUNEL and Bax in both MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines regarding dose and time, but downregulation of Bcl‐2 expression. Moreover, autophagy results were consistent with in vitro apoptosis results in both MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cell lines. We determined that the expressions of the autophagy markers Beclin‐1, LC3, and p62 were increased. Our findings indicate that treatment of breast cancer cells with melatonin increased the inhibitory effect of melatonin on cell growth through both apoptosis and autophagy in vitro.

Consequently, it was concluded that melatonin might adjust the expression balance of markers that have a role in cell death mechanisms and significantly promote these mechanisms. Therefore, melatonin can inhibit the growth of breast cancer cells by inducing cell death.
Sexism in the silences at Australian Universities: Parental leave in name, but not in practice
Authors: Duffy Sarah , O’Shea Michelle , Bowyer Dorothea , van Esch Patrick
Published: July 2022

Unequal distribution of child rearing and domestic responsibilities between parents contributes to gender inequity, a wicked problem in Australia. Inequitable parental leave policies at Australian public Universities place the burden of care squarely on the mother, diminishing or absenting the father. We examine how the gendered nature of the existing policies are constructed in ways that create inequities and discourage their uptake. A post‐structural feminist lens provides us with a theoretical vantage point from which this wicked problem can be problematized. We present three recommendations for enabling more equitable outcomes for parents. The first is to eradicate the punitive approach and support flexibility; second, the policies must be parental leave in name, provision and practice; and finally we recommend a minimum parental leave standard for Australian universities nationally. These findings have policy‐level significance for redressing parental leave inequity within the Australian university context. The paper concludes with theoretical contributions, practical implications, and suggestions for future research.
A political turn? New developments in Indian constitutional histories
Authors: Elangovan Arvind
Published: July 2022

In 2019, the Indian constitution suddenly exploded into the public sphere in ways that were never seen in the life of the postcolonial republic. Narendra Modi, the Prime Minister openly bowed before an original copy of the Indian constitution after his reelection in 2019. Later in the year, however, large groups of people used the text and images of the constitution to protest controversial legislations passed by the Modi Government in streets across India. While these gestures of “deification” and vernacularization of the constitution, respectively, seemed novel, this essay argues that the provenance of these actions may well lie in the intertwined histories of the political and the constitutional in the subcontinent. By highlighting some recent works on the Indian constitution, the essay argues that this public appropriation of the constitution cannot be understood without writing political histories of the constitution. In making this claim, it also departs from conventional approaches that only seeks to write histories of the constitution as though it was always a normative document upholding ideas of fundamental rights and social justice at the expense of ignoring its embedded political power. Writing political histories, then, are important to uncover the intrinsic political power imbricated in the Indian constitution.
GPS tracking of the two subspecies of the eastern buzzard (Buteo japonicus) reveals a migratory divide along the Sea of Japan
Authors: Nakahara Toru , Nagai Kazuya , Iseki Fumitaka , Yoshioka Toshiro , Nakayama Fumihito , Yamaguchi Noriyuki M.
Published: July 2022

In the Far East, multiple avian lineages show a common divergence pattern between the Eurasian continent and the Japanese Archipelago across the Sea of Japan. Buteo japonicus burmanicus and Buteo japonicus japonicus are often regarded as a pair of subspecies of the Eastern Buzzard that differentiated in the Far East during the Pleistocene. However, the background to their differentiation remains unknown because their taxonomic ambiguity prevents researchers from comparing their migration routes, distribution ranges and other characteristics. Here, we investigated differences in the migration routes and distribution ranges of the two genetically identified subspecies. We identified 28 B. j. burmanicus and B. j. japonicus individuals based on their mitochondrial DNA sequences and tracked their migration from Japan using GPS tracking devices. Three key results were found. First, B. j. burmanicus wintered in western Japan. Second, B. j. burmanicus migrated to the Eurasian continent and flew north along the eastern coast of the continent, whereas B. j. japonicus migrated within the Japanese Archipelago. Lastly, the summering range of B. j. burmanicus did not overlap with that of B. j. japonicus. Our results suggest that the migratory directions and breeding ranges of B. j. burmanicus and B. j. japonicus are divided along the Sea of Japan. We inferred that the presence of the Sea of Japan and the migratory behaviour of soaring raptors to avoid crossing a large, cold‐water body may have prevented gene flow between them and caused endemism of B. j. japonicus in the Japanese Archipelago.
Multifaceted amelioration of cutaneous photoageing by (0.3%) retinol
Authors: Mellody Kieran T. , Bradley Eleanor J. , Mambwe Bezaleel , Cotterell Lindsay F. , Kiss Orsolya , Halai Poonam , Loftus Zeena , Bell Mike , Griffiths Tamara W. , Griffiths Christopher E. M. , Watson Rachel E. B.
Published: July 2022

Background

Although retinol skin care products improve the appearance of photoaged skin, there is a need for an effective retinol concentration that provides skin benefits without irritation.

Objective

To compare the efficacy of topical 0.1%, 0.3% and 1% retinol in remodelling the cutaneous architecture in an in vivo experimental patch test study, and to determine tolerance of the most effective formulations when used in a daily in‐use escalation study.

Methods

For the patch test study, retinol products were applied under occlusion, to the extensor forearm of photoaged volunteers (n = 5; age range 66–84 years), and 3 mm skin biopsies obtained after 12 days. Effects of different retinol concentrations, and a vehicle control, on key epidermal and dermal biomarkers of cellular proliferation and dermal remodelling were compared to untreated baseline. Separately, participants (n = 218) recorded their tolerance to 0.3% or 1% retinol over a six‐week, approved regimen, which gradually increased the facial applications to once nightly.

Results

Retinol treatment induced a stepwise increase in epidermal thickness and induced the expression of stratum corneum proteins, filaggrin and KPRP. 0.3% retinol and 1% retinol were comparably effective at inducing keratinocyte proliferation in the epidermis, whilst reducing e‐cadherin expression. Fibrillin‐rich microfibril deposition was increased following treatment with 0.3% and 1% retinol (p < 0.01); other dermal components remained unaltered (e.g., fibronectin, collagen fibrils, elastin), and no evidence of local inflammation was detected. The in‐use study found that 0.3% retinol was better tolerated than 1% retinol, with fewer and milder adverse events reported (χ2(1) = 23.97; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

This study suggests that 1% and 0.3% retinol concentrations were similarly effective at remodelling photodamaged skin in an in vivo model of long‐term use. Use of 0.3% retinol in the escalation study was associated with fewer adverse reactions when applied daily. Hence, 0.3% retinol may be better tolerated than 1% retinol, thereby allowing longer‐term topical application.
I'll have what she's having: (Social) Perceptions of default options and implications for marketing and decision making
Authors: Buchanan Tonya M. , Buchanan Joshua , Diedericks Dené , Davis Logan
Published: July 2022

The power that default options have in shaping choice has been well established, yet relatively little is known about how decision makers experience and interpret such preselected options. Research suggests that individuals assume defaults represent a recommended course of action, yet the basis for this recommendation is unclear. Across two experimental studies, we explored consumer theories of default recommendations, examining spontaneous and experimentally manipulated perceptions of the basis of the default, and the impact on decision making across different contexts. Evidence across diverse populations and tasks shows that options were retained to a greater extent when represented as the default, consistent with classic default effects. Furthermore, a significant default effect emerged when the decision context was framed as complex. In line with research on social influence, defaults were most effective when they were presumed to reflect the most popular option (regardless of context). Interestingly, participants rated defaults as being more likely to represent the most popular option, regardless of decision context or default explanation provided to them. These findings highlight the importance of understanding the contexts in which default choices are relied upon and how those defaults are perceived by decision makers.
Effect of flaxseed oil double emulsion with tea polyphenol on the gel characteristics, antioxidant property and water mobility in reduced‐fat pork batter
Authors: Li Yan‐ping , Bai Rong , Feng Liang , Kang Zhuang‐Li , Xu Gui‐hua , Ma Han‐Jun
Published: July 2022

The changes in gel characteristics, rheology and antioxidant properties, microstructure and water mobility were studied to investigate the potential use of flaxseed oil double emulsion to replace pork back‐fat (25%, 50%, 75% and 100%) in reduced‐fat pork batter. The flaxseed oil double emulsion (pH 6.0) was made of 20 mL 0.5% tea polyphenol solution (w/w), 20 mL flaxseed oil, 60 mL 4% whey protein (w/w) and 400 mL 2% Arabic gum solution. The result showed that the TBARS, L*, and a* values of pork batter significantly decreased (P < 0.05) when the flaxseed oil double emulsion replacing the pork back‐fat was ≤50%. Meanwhile, the pH, emulsification stability, hardness, springiness, gumminess, chewiness, cooking yield and G′ at 80 °C significantly increased (P < 0.05). In addition, the mobility of water in cooked batter first decreased and then increased (P < 0.05) with increasing flaxseed oil double emulsion. In addition, the microstructure of cooked pork batter with 50% flaxseed oil double emulsion has a continuous, tighter and regular structure, with the pores being smaller and more uniform. Overall, the replacement of pork back‐fat with flaxseed oil double emulsion at 50% reduced‐fat content could improve the quality of pork batter.
Conditional knockout of oestrogen receptor alpha in CD11c+ cells impacts female survival and inflammatory cytokine profile in murine lupus
Authors: Lennard Richard Mara L. , Wirth Jena R. , Khatiwada Aastha , Chung Dongjun , Gilkeson Gary S. , Cunningham Melissa A.
Published: July 2022

Oestrogen and oestrogen receptor alpha (ERα) have been implicated in systemic lupus erythematosus pathogenesis. ERα signalling influences dendritic cell (DC) development and function, as well as inflammation and downstream immune responses. We previously reported that ERα modulates multiple Toll‐like receptor‐stimulated pathways in both conventional and plasmacytoid DCs in lupus‐prone mice. For example, CD11chiMHCII+ cell numbers are reduced in mice with global ERα deficiency or when expressing a short variant of ERα. Herein, RNA‐seq analysis of CD11chi cells from bone marrow of NZM2410 mice expressing WT ERα versus ERα short versus ERα null revealed differentially expressed complement genes, interferon‐related genes and cytokine signalling (e.g., IL‐17 and Th17 pathways). To better understand the role of ERα in CD11c+ cells, lupus prone NZM2410 mice with selective deletion of the Esr1 gene in CD11c+ cells were generated. Phenotype and survival of these mice were similar with the exception of Cre positive (CrePos) female mice. CrePos females, but not males, all died unexpectedly prior to 35 weeks. DC subsets were not significantly different between groups. Since ERα is necessary for robust development of DCs, this result suggests that DC fate was determined prior to CD11c expression and subsequent ERα deletion (i.e., proximally in DC ontogeny). Overall, findings point to a clear functional role for ERα in regulating cytokine signalling and inflammation, suggesting that further study into ERα‐mediated regulatory mechanisms in DCs and other immune cell types is warranted.
How does the volatility‐timing strategy perform in mutual funds portfolios
Authors: Yin Zhida , Jiang Jilin , Qian Zongxin
Published: July 2022

Literature suggests that a volatility‐timing strategy improves the performance of factor portfolios in the stock market and currency carry trade. This paper shows that the performance of this strategy is mixed when applied to mutual fund portfolios. More specifically, its performance not only depends on the investment style of the mutual funds but also the time periods when it is applied.
Effect of manual lymphatic drainage combined with vacuum sealing drainage on axillary web syndrome caused by breast cancer surgery
Authors: Liu Jingyi , Chen Di , Yin Xiaoting
Published: July 2022

The aim of the study was to explore the application value of manual lymphatic drainage combined with vacuum sealing drainage in axillary web syndrome (AWS) after breast cancer surgery. From 1 April 2020 to 1 June 2020, a total of 102 patients with AWS after axillary lymph node biopsy or axillary lymph node dissection in our hospital were included in this prospective study. According to the random number table method, all patients were divided into the study group (n = 51) and the control group (n = 51). The study group received the treatment of manual lymphatic drainage combined with vacuum sealing drainage, and the control group received health education and the treatment of functional training. The efficacy observation indicators included duration time to the disappearance of relevant clinical symptoms, degree of pain, angle of abduction of the affected limb, degree of upper limb disability function and quality of life. The duration time to the disappearance of cord‐like nodules and tightness in the study group was both significantly shorter than that in the control group (both P < .05). In the time point of 1 and 3 months after the intervention, compared with that in the control group, the study group had a significantly lighter degree of pain, a better degree of upper limb disability function and higher quality of life (all P < .05). Manual lymphatic drainage combined with vacuum sealing drainage can shorten the disappearance time of relevant clinical symptoms, relieve the degree of pain, improve the upper limb disability function and improve the quality of life in patients with AWS.
Retrotrapezoid nucleus: a litmus test for the identification of central chemoreceptors
Authors: Guyenet Patrice G. , Stornetta Ruth L. , Bayliss Douglas A. , Mulkey Daniel K.
Published: July 2022

Central chemoreception is the mechanism by which arterial blood PCO2 is detected by the CNS to regulate breathing. Two main theories have been proposed to account for the phenomenon. The distributed chemosensitivity theory argues that pH sensitivity is a widespread attribute of brainstem neurones and that central chemoreception results from the cumulative effects of pH on countless neurones. The specialized chemoreceptor theory envisions the existence of small and specialized populations of CNS cells (chemoreceptors) that are unique in their ability to detect very small pH fluctuations and, via specific connections, regulate a respiratory network that is itself unresponsive to pH. The recently identified CO2‐sensitive neurones of the retrotrapezoid nucleus (RTN) seem to possess most of the attributes that one would expect of such chemoreceptors. In this review we also suggest that many fewer medullary neurones are intrinsically responsive to CO2 in vivo than might have been anticipated from prior experimentation in vitro. The properties of RTN neurones provide renewed support for the specialized chemoreceptor theory of central chemoreception, proposed in the early 1960s. However, many uncertainties remain, especially as regards the molecular mechanisms of chemoreception, the type of cell that actually detects pH in vivo (neurone, glia or others) and the number and location of bona fide central chemoreceptors.
Is the Freedom to Bequeath a Basic Liberty?
Authors: Berrotarán Alejandro
Published: July 2022

Why should we recognize people's freedom to bequeath? In this article, I argue that bequeathing should be considered a basic liberty within John Rawls' scheme of justice. To do so, I begin by identifying the characteristics of the interests protected by the basic liberties. These interests are linked to the exercise or development of the two moral powers of persons, must belong to the holder of the right or freedom, and can only be limited by the externalities arising from the exercise of other fundamental interests. Subsequently, I address whether the interest covered by the right to bequeath meets these criteria. Finally, I conclude by establishing that the power to bequeath is a basic liberty that protects the interest of its holder in being partial and that can only be limited if its exercise undermines other fundamental liberties.
On the importance of parenting in externalizing disorders: an evaluation of indirect genetic effects in families
Authors: Eilertsen Espen M. , Cheesman Rosa , Ayorech Ziada , Røysamb Espen , Pingault Jean‐Baptiste , Njølstad Pål R. , Andreassen Ole A. , Havdahl Alexandra , McAdams Tom A. , Torvik Fartein A. , Ystrøm Eivind
Published: July 2022

Background

Theoretical models of the development of childhood externalizing disorders emphasize the role of parents. Empirical studies have not been able to identify specific aspects of parental behaviors explaining a considerable proportion of the observed individual differences in externalizing problems. The problem is complicated by the contribution of genetic factors to externalizing problems, as parents provide both genes and environments to their children. We studied the joint contributions of direct genetic effects of children and the indirect genetic effects of parents through the environment on externalizing problems.

Methods

The study used genome‐wide single nucleotide polymorphism data from 9,675 parent–offspring trios participating in the Norwegian Mother Father and child cohort study. Based on genomic relatedness matrices, we estimated the contribution of direct genetic effects and indirect maternal and paternal genetic effects on ADHD, conduct and disruptive behaviors at 8 years of age.

Results

Models including indirect parental genetic effects were preferred for the ADHD symptoms of inattention and hyperactivity, and conduct problems, but not oppositional defiant behaviors. Direct genetic effects accounted for 11% to 24% of the variance, whereas indirect parental genetic effects accounted for 0% to 16% in ADHD symptoms and conduct problems. The correlation between direct and indirect genetic effects, or gene–environment correlations, decreased the variance with 16% and 13% for conduct and inattention problems, and increased the variance with 6% for hyperactivity problems.

Conclusions

This study provides empirical support to the notion that parents have a significant role in the development of childhood externalizing behaviors. The parental contribution to decrease in variation of inattention and conduct problems by gene–environment correlations would limit the number of children reaching clinical ranges in symptoms. Not accounting for indirect parental genetic effects can lead to both positive and negative bias when identifying genetic variants for childhood externalizing behaviors.
Evolutionary bioenergetics of ciliates
Authors: Lynch Michael , Schavemaker Paul E. , Licknack Timothy J. , Hao Yue , Pezzano Arianna
Published: July 2022

Understanding why various organisms evolve alternative ways of living requires information on both the fitness advantages of phenotypic modifications and the costs of constructing and operating cellular features. Although the former has been the subject of a myriad of ecological studies, almost no attention has been given to how organisms allocate resources to alternative structures and functions. We address these matters by capitalizing on an array of observations on diverse ciliate species and from the emerging field of evolutionary bioenergetics. A relatively robust and general estimator for the total cost of a cell per cell cycle (in units of ATP equivalents) is provided, and this is then used to understand how the magnitudes of various investments scale with cell size. Among other things, we examine the costs associated with the large macronuclear genomes of ciliates, as well as ribosomes, various internal membranes, osmoregulation, cilia, and swimming activities. Although a number of uncertainties remain, the general approach taken may serve as blueprint for expanding this line of work to additional traits and phylogenetic lineages.