bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Raman Micro‐Imaging of the Coexistence of sI and sII Hydrates Formed from a Mixed Methane‐Propane Gas in a Confined Space
Authors: CAI Wenjiu , ZHAN Linsen , HUANG Xin , LU Hailong
Published: April 2022

Natural gas hydrate contains a specific amount of heavy hydrocarbons, such as ethane, propane, etc., aside from the primary guest gas of methane. Although the coexistence of two or even three hydrate structures has been discovered at several hydrate sites, the requisite formation mechanism is still not well understood. In‐situ observation of the formation process of mixed methane‐propane hydrate in a confined space was conducted using confocal Raman imaging microscopy. The Raman imaging results reveal that sI methane hydrate and sII mixed methane‐propane hydrate are formed and coexist in the reaction system. In the confined space, the sI hydrate originates from the dissolved gas in water, while the sII hydrate is formed from free gas. The results obtained can help explain the coexistence of sI and sII hydrates found in natural hydrate samples, as well as providing insights into a possible dynamic scenario of hydrate reservoirs in geological history.
A propensity sore‐matched study: Applying a modified chest tube drainage strategy in rapid rehabilitation following uni‐portal thoracoscopic pulmonary wedge resection
Authors: Xu Guobing , Du Jianting , Zhang Jiarong , Chen Hao , Zheng Bin , Yang Zhang , Chen Chun
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This study aimed to compare the value of a modified chest tube drainage strategy to a traditional drainage strategy in single‐port thoracoscopic pulmonary wedge resection.

Methods

From January 2019 to July 2021, we collected clinical data on 405 patients who underwent single‐port thoracoscopic pulmonary wedge resection in the No.1 Department of Thoracic Surgery at Fujian Medical University Union Hospital, with 121 (29.9%) cases in the modified drainage strategy group and 284 (70.1%) cases in the traditional drainage strategy group. The propensity score matching method (Match Ratio = 1:1) was used to reduce differences in clinical characteristics between the two groups.

Results

Following 1:1 propensity score matching, 120 matched pairs (240 patients) were included in the study. There was no significant difference in general clinical characteristics between the two groups. There was no statistical difference in intraoperative factors except for operative times (71.42 ± 22.98 min vs. 86.80 ± 36.75 min, p < 0.001). In terms of postoperative factors, there were significant differences in postoperative chest tube duration (0.00 ± 0.00 h vs. 32.68 ± 18.51 h, p < 0.001), total drainage volume (143.03 ± 118.33 ml vs. 187.73 ± 140.82 ml, p = 0.008), postoperative hospital stay (2.61 ± 0.70 days vs. 3.27 ± 1.88 days, p < 0.001), number of additional pain relief (0.14 ± 0.40 vs. 0.42 ± 0.74, p < 0.001), facial pain score (2.7 ± 1.8 vs. 3.6 ± 2.7, p = 0.005) and adverse events (p = 0.046). Furthermore, there was a statistical difference between the two groups regarding CTCAE grade‐1 complication, but no statistical difference in CTCAE grade‐2 complication.

Conclusions

A modified drainage strategy in single‐port thoracoscopic pulmonary wedge resection is safe and feasible, allowing for less postoperative rehabilitation time, pain relief, reduced postoperative pleural effusion, and reduced clinical workload.
Rio Tinto And Bougainville – A Fatal Connection. A Mine, A War, And An Uncertain Future
Authors: Boege Volker
Published: April 2022

At the end of 2019 in Papua New Guinea's Autonomous Region of Bougainville, a referendum was held on the region's future political status, in which almost 98 per cent voted for independence. Bougainville will now undergo a transition process, during which the issue of the Panguna mine is bound to resurface. The mine was at the core of a ten‐year war in the 1990s, ceasing operations because of it, and has remained closed ever since. Peace on Bougainville can only be sustained if the Panguna problem is resolved, and on Bougainville, the former mine owner Rio Tinto is widely seen as having an obligation to contribute to a solution, particularly in regard to the clean‐up of environmental degradation caused by the mine. This article brings historical depth to the current debates, exploring Rio Tinto's involvement in the causation and escalation of the war, and the human rights violations and war crimes committed in its course. Rio Tinto's post‐war attitude is briefly discussed and some generalising conclusions drawn regarding corporate accountability and the inclusion of external business actors in local traditional reconciliation processes.
Homemaking as sensemaking
Authors: LEFORT BRUNO
Published: April 2022

As youth from the Levantine diasporas resettle in what is nominally their homeland, they compose narratives of home at the intersection of finding their place and the constant movement of their existence. Their homemaking efforts delineate places of belonging where these youth position themselves in a double relative location: the intersubjective (in relation to others) and the subjective (in relation to their projected life trajectory). While dwelling in places and wider societal landscapes, these relative locations are continually moving as the youth negotiate the meaning of their presence in the here‐and‐now, both diachronically (alongthe perceived direction of their life trajectory) and synchronically (towardothers). This conceptualization questions the centrality of identity in the debates on migration and diasporas, and it makes visible how belonging emerges from the existential process of making sense of one's location between the self and others. [diaspora,home,emplacement,displacement,belonging,life trajectory,narrative,Lebanon,Canada]
Clinical significance of intracavitary electrocardiographic localization in the prevention of PICC heterotopia in children with tumor
Authors: Zhang Cong‐Cong , Zhu Yu‐Xin , Yin Xin‐Xin , Gao Jing‐Fang
Published: April 2022

Objective

To explore the clinical significance of intracavitary electrocardiogram positioning technology in preventing catheter ectopic position during peripherally inserted central catheter (PICC) catheterization in children with tumors.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of the clinical data of 62 children who required PICC catheterization was performed. The intracavitary electrocardiogram (ECG) positioning technology was used during the tube placement of the child patients. After the tube was successfully placed, the chest radiograph was taken. The ECG positioning result was compared with the chest radiograph positioning result after the tube was inserted, and the sensitivity and specificity of the ECG positioning were calculated.

Results

The intracavitary electrocardiogram results of 62 children with PICC catheters showed that 56 cases (90.32%) had characteristic P waves, and six cases (9.68%) had no characteristic P waves. The chest radiographs of 56 children with characteristic P wave showed that 33 cases (58.93%) of the catheter tip position was appropriate, 22 cases (39.29%) of the catheter tip was too deep, and 1 case was in a non‐superior vena cava; six cases of chest radiographs of children with no characteristic P wave showed: one case was too deep at T8 level, one case was too shallow at T4 level, four cases were at non‐superior vena cava, one case was contralateral internal jugular vein, two cases in the contralateral brachiocephalic vein, and one case was the contralateral subclavian vein.

Conclusion

Intracavitary ECG positioning assisted catheter placement in infants can effectively improve the accuracy of catheter tip position.
Accuracy of atrial fibrillation detection by an insertable cardiac monitor in patients undergoing catheter ablation: Results of the BioVAD study
Authors: Assaf Amira , Theuns Dominic A. M. J. , Sakhi Rafi , Bhagwandien Rohit E. , Szili‐Torok Tamas , Yap Sing‐Chien
Published: April 2022

Background

Insertable cardiac monitors (ICMs) are increasingly used to evaluate the atrial fibrillation (AF) burden after catheter ablation of AF. BioMonitor III (BM3) is an ICM with a long sensing vector, which enhances sensing capabilities. The AF detection algorithm of the BM3 is based on R–R interval variability.

Objective

To evaluate the performance of the AF detection algorithm of BM3 in patients before and after catheter ablation of AF using simultaneous Holter recordings.

Methods

In this prospective study, we enrolled patients scheduled for catheter ablation of paroxysmal or persistent AF. After BM3 implantation, patients had a 4 days Holter registration before and 3 months after ablation. All true AF episodes ≥2 min on the Holter were annotated and matched with BM3 detected AF detections.

Results

Thirty‐one patients were enrolled (mean age 60 ± 8, 74% male, 68% paroxysmal AF). Fifty‐six Holter registrations were performed in 30 patients. Twelve patients demonstrated at least one true AF episode with a total AF duration of 570 h. The AF burden accuracy of BM3 before catheter ablation was 99.6%, with a duration sensitivity of 98.6% and a duration specificity of 99.9%. The AF burden accuracy of BM3 after catheter ablation was 99.8%, with a duration sensitivity of 90.2% and a duration specificity of 99.9%. Overall, the AF burden detected on the Holter and BM3 demonstrated a high Pearson correlation coefficient of 0.996.

Conclusion

BM3 accurately detects AF burden in patients before and after catheter ablation of AF.
Evidence of latent HPV infection in older Danish women with a previous history of cervical dysplasia
Authors: Hammer Anne , Blaakaer Jan , de Koning Maurits N. C. , Steiniche Torben , Mejlgaard Else , Svanholm Hans , Roensbo Mette T. , Fuglsang Katrine , Doorbar John , Andersen Rikke H. , Quint Wim G. V. , Gravitt Patti E.
Published: April 2022

Introduction

Understanding whether human papillomavirus (HPV) may establish latency in the uterine cervix is important. A better understanding of HPV natural history is useful for clinical counseling of women attending screening and to accurately inform health prevention strategies such as screening and HPV vaccination. We evaluated the extent of latent HPV infections in older women with a history of abnormal cytology.

Material and Methods

We conducted a cross‐sectional study in Aarhus, Denmark, from March 2013 through April 2015. Women were enrolled if they underwent cervical amputation or total hysterectomy because of benign disease. Prior to surgery, women completed a questionnaire and a cervical smear was collected for HPV testing and morphological assessment. For evaluation of latency (i.e., no evidence of active HPV infection, but HPV detected in the tissue), we selected women with a history of abnormal cervical cytology or histology, as these women were considered at increased risk of harboring a latent infection. Cervical tissue underwent extensive HPV testing using the SPF10‐DEIA‐LipA25 assay.

Results

Of 103 women enrolled, 26 were included in this analysis. Median age was 55 years (interquartile range [IQR] 52–65), and most women were postmenopausal and parous. The median number of sexual partners over the lifetime was six (IQR 3–10), and 85% reported no recent new sexual partner. Five women (19.2%) had evidence of active infection at the time of surgery, and 19 underwent latency evaluation. Of these, a latent infection was detected in 11 (57.9%), with HPV16 being the most prevalent type (50%). Nearly 80% (n = 14) of the 18 women with a history of previous low‐grade or high‐grade cytology with no treatment had an active or latent HPV infection, with latent infections predominating. HPV was detected in two of the six women with a history of high‐grade cytology and subsequent excisional treatment, both as latent infections.

Conclusions

HPV can be detected in cervical tissue specimens without any evidence of an active HPV infection, indicative of a latent, immunologically controlled infection. Modeling studies should consider including a latent state in their model when estimating the appropriate age to stop screening and when evaluating the impact of HPV vaccination.
Vulnerability in practice: Peeling back the layers, avoiding triggers, and preventing cascading effects
Authors: Victor Elizabeth , Luna Florencia , Guidry‐Grimes Laura , Reiheld Alison
Published: April 2022

The concept of vulnerability is widely used in bioethics, particularly in research ethics and public health ethics. The traditional approach construes vulnerability as inherent in individuals or the groups to which they belong and views vulnerability as requiring special protections. Florencia Luna and other bioethicists continue to challenge traditional ways of conceptualizing and applying the term. Luna began proposing a layered approach to this concept and recently extended this proposal to offer two new concepts to analyze the concept of vulnerability, namely understanding external conditions that trigger vulnerability and layers of vulnerability with cascading effects. Luna's conception of vulnerability is useful, which we demonstrate by applying her layered view and the new analyses in multiple contexts. We begin by outlining Luna's view and we use vignettes from healthcare involving transgender patients, the care of patients in psychiatric contexts, and research involving prisoners to illustrate how each part of Luna's concept elucidates important moral issues.
Serum cytokines to predict systemic lupus erythematosus clinical and serological activity
Authors: Moreno‐Torres Victor , Castejón Raquel , Martínez‐Urbistondo María , Gutiérrez‐Rojas Ángela , Vázquez‐Comendador Jose , Tutor Pablo , Durán‐del Campo Pedro , Mellor‐Pita Susana , Rosado Silvia , Vargas‐Núñez Juan‐Antonio
Published: April 2022

We aimed to explore the role of interleukin (IL)‐6, interferon‐gamma (IFNγ), IL‐10, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF) as predictors of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) clinical and serological activity, and their correlation with the treatment received. We performed a retrospective analysis of 77 patients with SLE according to the 2012 Systemic Lupus International Collaborative Clinics (SLICC) criteria. The outcomes were serological activity (SA), active disease (AD), complete remission (CR), the low‐disease activity state (LDAS), and immunosuppressive treatment. SA was present in 17.1%, AD in 17.3%, CR in 13%, and LDAS in 64.9% of patients. IL‐6 values were higher in patients in SA, in AD, in those receiving steroids alone, and in patients without CR or LDAS (p < 0.05). IFNγ was associated with anti‐double stranded DNA (dsDNA) antibodies positivity and immunosuppression, whereas IL‐10 values were higher in patients with CR (p < 0.05). The IL6‐IFN product was able to predict anti‐double stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA) antibodies positivity (area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [AUC‐ROC] = 0.705, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.563–0.847), SA (AUC‐ROC = 0.720, 95% CI 0.542–0.899), AD (AUC‐ROC = 0.701, 95% CI 0.520–0.882), steroid treatment (AUC‐ROC = 0.751, 95% CI 0.622–0.879), and the absence of LDAS (AUC‐ROC = 0.700, 95% CI 0.558–0.834). The IL6‐IFN/IL10 ratio predicted AD (AUC‐ROC = 0.742, 955 CI 0.540–0.944), steroid treatment (AUC‐ROC = 0.721, 95% CI 0.572–0.870), and the absence of LDAS (AUC‐ROC = 0.694, 95% CI 0.536–0.853). In conclusion, IL‐6, IL‐10, and IFNγ might help to assess SLE serological and clinical activity. Their combination in the IL‐6‐IFN product and the IL‐6xIFN to IL‐10 ratio results in novel tools to determine and predict SA, AD, and LDAS. Prompt detection of SLE activity might allow a rapid intervention to avoid established or chronic damage.
Flying insect biomass is negatively associated with urban cover in surrounding landscapes
Authors: Svenningsen Cecilie S. , Bowler Diana E. , Hecker Susanne , Bladt Jesper , Grescho Volker , van Dam Nicole M. , Dauber Jens , Eichenberg David , Ejrnæs Rasmus , Fløjgaard Camilla , Frenzel Mark , Frøslev Tobias G. , Hansen Anders J. , Heilmann‐Clausen Jacob , Huang Yuanyuan , Larsen Jonas C. , Menger Juliana , Nayan Nur L. B. M. , Pedersen Lene B. , Richter Anett , Dunn Robert R. , Tøttrup Anders P. , Bonn Aletta
Published: April 2022

Aim

In this study, we assessed the importance of local‐ to landscape‐scale effects of land cover and land use on flying insect biomass.

Location

Denmark and parts of Germany.

Methods

We used rooftop‐mounted car nets in a citizen science project (“InsectMobile”) to allow for large‐scale geographic sampling of flying insects. Volunteers sampled insects along 278 five‐km routes in urban, farmland, grassland, wetland and forest landscapes in the summer of 2018. The bulk insect samples were dried overnight to obtain the sample biomass. We extracted proportional land use variables in buffers between 50 and 1,000 m along the routes and compiled them into land cover categories to examine the effect of each land cover, and specific land use types, on insect biomass.

Results

We found a negative association between urban cover and flying insect biomass (1% increase in urban cover = 1% [95% CI: −3.0 to 0.0] decrease in biomass in Denmark, and a 3% [95% CI: −3.0 to 0.0] decrease in Germany) at a landscape scale (1,000‐m buffer). In Denmark, we also found positive effects of semi‐natural land cover types, that is protected grassland (largest at the landscape scale, 1000 m) and forests (largest at intermediate scales, 250 m). Protected grassland cover had a stronger positive effect on insect biomass than forest cover did. For farmland cover, the positive association with insect biomass was not clearly modified by any variable associated with farmland use intensity. The negative association between insect biomass and urban land cover appeared to be reduced by increased urban green space.

Main conclusions

Our results show that land cover has an impact on flying insect biomass with the magnitude of this effect varying across spatial scales. However, the vast expanse of grey space in urbanized areas has a direct negative impact on flying insect biomass across all spatial scales examined.
Evaluating T cell responses prior to the onset of type 1 diabetes
Authors: Arif Sefina , Yusuf Norkhairin , Domingo‐Vila Clara , Liu Yuk‐Fun , Bingley Polly J. , Peakman Mark
Published: April 2022

Aims

In the current study we aimed to evaluat T cell phenotypes and metabolic profiles in high‐risk individuals who progressed to type 1 diabetes compared to those remaining disease free.

Methods

A Fluorspot assay was used to examine T cell responses to a panel of islet autoantigen peptides in samples obtained 6‐ and 30‐months preceding disease onset and at the same timepoints in non‐progressors.

Results

We noted a significant increase in the magnitude of the proinflammatory interferon‐γ response to proinsulin and insulin peptides in individuals who progressed to type 1 diabetes. In contrast, in the non‐progressors, we observed an increase in the regulatory IL‐10 response to proinsulin peptides. Furthermore, the T cell responses to the islet peptide panel predisposed towards a proinflammatory interferon‐γ bias in the progressors.

Conclusions

Collectively, these data suggest that a proinflammatory T cell response is prevalent in high‐risk individuals who progress to type 1 diabetes and can be detected up to 6 months prior to onset of disease. This observation, albeit in a small cohort, can potentially be harnessed in disease staging, particularly in identifying autoantibody‐positive individuals transitioning from stage 2 (dysglycemia present and pre‐symptomatic) to stage 3 (dysglycemia present and symptomatic). The detection of these different T cell phenotypes in progressors and non‐progressors suggests the presence of disease endotypes.
Cross‐border networks and knowledge spillovers for foreign entry
Authors: Chan Jackie M. L. , Hsieh Chih‐Sheng
Published: April 2022

This paper studies cross‐border networks formed in firms' prior destinations in the context of cross‐border mergers and acquisitions (M&A). An acquirer owns a subsidiary in a prior destination, and the subsidiary's domestic network forms the cross‐border network of the acquirer due to their ownership link. We focus on the subsidiary's network of neighboring firms in a location within the prior destination. Using rich data on cross‐border M&A, we show that knowledge spillovers from this cross‐border network have a positive impact on the acquirer's likelihood of entering a new destination. Our results highlight the global externalities of multinationals' international economic activities.
A temperature‐driven model of phenological mismatch provides insights into the potential impacts of climate change on consumer–resource interactions
Authors: Portalier Sebastien M. J. , Candau Jean‐Noël , Lutscher Frithjof
Published: April 2022

Anthropogenic climate change increasingly affects species phenology. Because trophic interactions often occur at specific phenological stages, changes in one species' phenology may affect others through phenological mismatch. When a consumer and a resource both exhibit a seasonal resting period, the synchrony of the end of their respective resting periods is fundamental for the persistence of their interaction. Since the consumer and its resource may react differently to changes in temperature regime, the synchrony between them could be altered. We investigate potential effects of climate change on species' synchrony. We propose a general model that determines the duration of the resting period according to temperature, and its effects on the mismatch between phenological stages of two interacting species. We illustrate our approach using the spruce budworm–balsam fir system in eastern Canada. We find that an increase in temperature advances the end of the resting period. However, the effects of a warm or cold spell during the resting period strongly vary according to the timing and the duration of the spell. Depending on how a consumer and its resource react to the same temperature shift, the mismatch between them may increase or decrease. The spruce budworm–balsam fir model predicts that an increase in temperature may increase the mismatch between the insect and the tree in southern sites, but may increase the synchrony in northern sites. This modelling approach is of prime importance to investigate potential effects of climate change on consumer–resource systems.
NA0D – The new Traumatic Dental Injury classification of the World Health Organization
Authors: Petti Stefano , Andreasen Jens Ove , Glendor Ulf , Andersson Lars
Published: April 2022

An accurate, clear, and easy‐to‐use traumatic dental injury (TDI) classification and definition system is a prerequisite for proper diagnosis, study, and treatment. However, more than 50 classifications have been used in the past. The ideal solution would be that TDIs are adequately classified within the International Classification of Diseases (ICD), endorsed by the World Health Organization (WHO). TDI classification provided by the 11th Revision of the ICD (ICD‐11), released in 2018, and previous Revisions, failed to classify TDIs satisfactorily. Therefore, in December 2018, a proposal was submitted by Dr's Stefano Petti, Jens Ove Andreasen, Ulf Glendor, and Lars Andersson, to the ICD‐11, asking for a change of the existing TDI classification. Proposal #2130 highlighted the TDI paradox, the fifth most frequent disease/condition neglected by most public health agencies in the world, and the limits of ICD‐11 classification. Namely, injuries of teeth and periodontal tissues were located in two separate blocks that did not mention dental/periodontal tissues; infraction, concussion, and subluxation were not coded; most TDIs lacked description; and tooth fractures were described through bone fracture descriptions (e.g., comminuted, compression, and fissured fractures). These limitations led to TDI mis‐reporting, under‐reporting, and non‐specific reporting by untrained non‐dental healthcare providers. In addition, no scientific articles on TDIs, present in PubMed, Scopus, and Web‐of‐Science, used the ICD classification. Proposal #2130 suggested to adopt the Andreasen classification, the most widely acknowledged classification used in dental traumatology. The Proposal was reviewed by two WHO teams, two scientific Committees, one WHO Collaborating Center, and the Department of Non‐Communicable Disease Prevention at WHO headquarters, and it underwent two voting sessions. In March 2022, the Andreasen classification was accepted integrally. A new entity was generated, called NA0D, “Injury of teeth or supporting structures” (https://icd.who.int/browse11/l‐m/en#/http%3a%2f%2fid.who.int%2ficd%2fentity%2f1413338122). Hopefully, this will contribute to increasing the public awareness, and the dental profession's management, of TDIs.
A well‐established fact: Rapid mineralization of organic inputs is an important factor for soil carbon sequestration
Authors: Angers Denis , Arrouays Dominique , Cardinael Rémi , Chenu Claire , Corbeels Marc , Demenois Julien , Farrell Mark , Martin Manuel , Minasny Budiman , Recous Sylvie , Six Johan
Published: April 2022

We have read with interest an opinion paper recently published in the European Journal of Soil Science (Berthelin et al., 2022). This paper presents some interesting considerations, at least one of which is already well known to soil scientists working on soil organic carbon (SOC), that is, a large portion (80%–90%) of fresh carbon inputs to soil is subject to rapid mineralization. The short‐term mineralization kinetics of organic inputs is well‐known and accounted for in soil organic matter models. Thus, clearly, the long‐term predictions based on these models do not overlook short‐term mineralization. We point out that many agronomic practices can significantly contribute to SOC sequestration. If conducted responsibly whilst fully recognising the caveats, SOC sequestration can lead to a win‐win situation where agriculture can both contribute to the mitigation of climate change and adapt to it, whilst at the same time delivering other co‐benefits such as reduced soil erosion and enhanced biodiversity.

Highlights

Rapid mineralization of organic inputs is an important factor for soil carbon sequestration.

Mineralization kinetics of organic inputs are well‐known and accounted for in soil organic matter models.

Many agronomic practices can contribute significantly to SOC sequestration.

SOC sequestration can lead to a win‐win situation where agriculture can both contribute to the mitigation of climate change and adapt to it.
A risk assessment of equine piroplasmosis entry, exposure and consequences in the UK
Authors: Coultous Robert M. , Sutton David G. M. , Boden Lisa A.
Published: April 2022

Background

Equine piroplasmosis (EP) is currently not endemic in the UK, despite a lack of formal surveillance and the presence of carrier horses in the equine population. Pathogen establishment would have significant welfare and economic impacts on the national equine industry, but the disease is often overlooked by UK practitioners.

Objectives

To assess the risk of disease entry, exposure and consequences to the UK equine population.

Study design

Qualitative risk assessment.

Methods

A qualitative risk assessment was constructed utilising the current World Organisation for Animal Health (OIE) published framework for importation risk assessment, assessing the key areas of disease entry, exposure and consequences to the UK equine population.

Results

The overall risk of EP entry to the UK via importation of infected equidae with acute disease is very low but considered medium with subclinical carrier animals. Entry via importation of ticks or the importation of blood is considered very low. The risk of EP exposure to susceptible equidae in the UK is considered low by the infection routes of tick‐bites, contaminated needles and contaminated blood, but very high via transplacental transfer. However, the consequences of EP endemic establishment are considered of high significance to the UK equine industry.

Main limitations

A lack of available numerical data for events and variables in disease import risk meant a qualitative assessment was the most practical method for this scenario.

Conclusions

This risk assessment highlights that EP positive animals are able to enter and are currently present in the UK, and that conditions do exist that could allow forward transmission of the disease. It has highlighted a gap in existing policy where the UK falls behind OIE guidelines and has suggested steps to correct this discrepancy and improve national biosecurity.
Early castration in foals: Consequences on physical and behavioural development
Authors: Cognie Juliette , Freret Sandrine , Lansade Lea , Parias Celine , Barriere Philippe , Gesbert Amandine , Reigner Fabrice , Deleuze Stefan
Published: April 2022

Background

The impact of very early castration of foals has not yet been studied despite the many positive effects observed in dogs and cats.

Objectives

The objective of the study was to compare castration at 3 days and 18 months and assess their subsequent morphological and behavioural development.

Study design

This was a randomised, blinded clinical study.

Methods

Twenty‐two Welsh ponies underwent either early (3‐day old, EC group, n = 11) or traditional (18‐month old, TC group, n = 11) castration. Animals were followed up to 3 years of age. All ponies were castrated using a primary closure technique under general anaesthesia. Weight and morphometric measurements were monitored monthly from birth until 8 months of age in both groups. Then, measurements were taken every 3 months until 2 years of age and then every 6 months until 3 years of age. Temperament tests were performed on all animals when they were 1‐ and 3‐years old.

Results

No differences were observed between the EC and TC groups in terms of physical development from birth until 40 months of age or in terms of temperament and behaviour at either 1 or 3 years of age.

Main limitations

The study included only one breed (Welsh ponies) and only 22 animals that were castrated before 2 years of age, precluding comparison with castration performed at older ages.

Conclusions

We demonstrate that early castration at 3 days does not interfere with morphological or behavioural development.
Anticholinergic burden and poor oral health are associated with frailty in geriatric patients undergoing inpatient rehabilitation: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Shwe Phu S. , Thein Paul M. , Marwaha Parul , Taege Karina , Shankumar Ramini , Junckerstorff Ralph
Published: April 2022

Background

Poor oral health is known to be associated with frailty in geriatric populations. Recent exposure to anticholinergic medications is responsible for features of poor oral health. Anticholinergic medications pose a cumulative risk for frailty.

Methods

We studied 115 geriatric inpatients (aged >65 years and recruited over a 3‐month period from October to December 2017). Patients who were severely agitated, cognitively impaired, from a non‐English speaking background and with severe sensory impairment were excluded. Frailty and oral health were assessed using the Reported Edmonton Frailty Scale and the Oral Health Assessment Test, respectively. Exposure to anticholinergic medications was assessed using the Anticholinergic Burden Scale.

Results

The mean age was 80 (range from 66 to 101). Only 44 patients (38.3%) were not exposed to any anticholinergic medication. Nearly two‐thirds of patients were taking anticholinergic medications, with 25% classified as having a high anticholinergic burden (ACB ≥ 4). Approximately one‐third of severely frail patients were exposed to a high anticholinergic burden. Patients with a high anticholinergic burden were more than twice as likely to have severe frailty (OR 2.21; 95% confidence interval 1.05–4.6). Poor oral health was associated with frailty (OR 1.24; 95% CI 1.02–1.49).

Conclusion

High anticholinergic burden was found to be a risk marker for severe frailty independent of its effect on oral health. Poor oral health was associated with all levels of frailty. This study highlights a need for a review of medications with anticholinergic properties in older patients. Further research should be directed at whether deprescribing could prevent poor oral health or slow the progression of frailty.
Analysis of the influence of land finance on haze pollution: An empirical study based on 269 prefecture‐level cities in China
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Wang Weilong , Su Xufeng , Ren Siyu , Ran Qiying , Wang Jianlong , Cao Jianhong
Published: April 2022

Under the system of political centralization and economic decentralization, the expanding scale of land finance and the increasingly severe environmental pressure have jointly become crucial features of China's urban development. Therefore, it is of great practical significance to study the intrinsic mechanism of land finance on haze pollution for China's economy to achieve kinetic energy transformation and green development. This paper empirically analyzes the impact of land finance on haze pollution using a dynamic spatial Durbin model based on panel data of 269 prefecture‐level cities in China from 2004 to 2017. The statistical results show that haze pollution has a significant “snowball effect” and space spillover effect. Land finance has a significant positive effect on haze pollution. Land transfer both by agreement and by bid invitation, auction, and listing have significant positive effect on haze pollution. However, the promoting effect of land transfer by agreement on haze pollution is significantly higher than that of land sale by bid invitation, auction, and listing. Furthermore, regional heterogeneity implies that for cities in the eastern region, land finance is conducive to alleviating haze pollution. In contrast, for cities in the central and western regions, land finance significantly promotes haze pollution.
Moth declines are most severe in broadleaf woodlands despite a net gain in habitat availability
Authors: Blumgart Dan , Botham Marc S. , Menéndez Rosa , Bell James R.
Published: April 2022

While agricultural intensification and habitat loss are cited as key drivers of moth decline, these alone cannot explain declines observed in UK woodlands – a habitat that has expanded in area since 1968.

We quantified how moth communities changed across habitats and regions and determined how species traits interacted with habitat in predicting moth abundance change. We hypothesised that, in woodlands, species more vulnerable to shading and browsing by deer (species specialising on forbs, shrubs and shade‐intolerant plants) had declined more severely than other species, and that moth decline in woodlands was more severe at sites more susceptible to deer damage.

We modelled abundance, biomass, species richness and diversity from 1968 to 2016 and explored how these interacted with habitat and region. We also modelled the interaction between habitat and two moth species traits: larval feeding guild and shade‐tolerance of hostplant.

Moth declines were consistently highest in broadleaf woodland. Abundance, biomass, species richness and diversity declined significantly by −51%, −52%, −14% and −15% in woodlands, respectively, compared to national trends of −34%, −39%, −1% (non‐significant) and +10%. Declines were no greater in woodlands more susceptible to deer browsing damage. Traits based analysis found no evidence that shading and intensive browsing by deer explained moth declines in woodland.

Moth decline was more severe in broadleaf woodlands than in intensively managed farmlands. We found no evidence that deer browsing or increased shading has driven these trends: the primary cause of the decline of moths in woodlands remains unclear.
Structure, conformation and immunomodulatory activity of a polysaccharide from Morchella sextelata
Authors: Li Feng , Wang Kunhua , Dong Xiaobo , Xu Huaide
Published: April 2022

Fungal polysaccharides are novel ingredients in functional foods with diverse medicinal properties. Here, a polysaccharide, MSP2‐1, was isolated from Morchella sextelata fruiting bodies and purified using column chromatography. MSP2‐1 (371.5 kDa) is a branched (1 → 4)‐α‐D‐glucan with the O‐6 or O‐3 position occupied by α‐D‐Glcp. Light scattering analysis revealed that MSP2‐1 has a spherical conformation in 0.9% NaCl solution; this was confirmed using transmission electron microscopy. Finally, MPS2‐1 was found to promote proliferation, NO release and cytokine secretion in RAW264.7 cells through a mechanism involving Toll‐like receptor 4. Collectively, these results highlight the potential application of MSP2‐1 as an immunoenhancing compound for hypoimmunity.
Influence of histidine on gelation properties of low sodium surimi from tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus)
Authors: Javith S Mohammed Akram , Gunasekaran Janarthanan , Xavier K.A. Martin , Nayak Binaya Bhusan , Krishna Gopal , Balange Amjad K.
Published: April 2022

The aim of this study was to reduce the salt content of tilapia surimi using histidine without affecting gelation properties. The addition of histidine (T‐1) to low salt surimi gels increased the breaking force and deformation and resulted in the highest gel strength (458 g.cm). Expressible moisture was less in the T‐1 sample and proteolytic degradation was higher in the control sample indicating that autolysis did not occur in histidine added sample during gel setting. Protein patterns revealed cross‐linking of myosin heavy chain in gels with added histidine. Fourier transformed infrared spectra implied that histidine‐induced unfolding of proteins occurred after heating. T‐1 samples exhibited a dense and compact microstructure, whereas the control gel was loose. The results of this study show that the addition of histidine could yield high‐quality gels from tilapia surimi in low salt conditions.
Inhibitory effects of curcumin and piperine on fluorescent advanced glycation end products formation in a bovine serum albumin–fructose model
Authors: Yu Ligang , Li Yong , Yang Yukun , Guo Caixia , Li Meiping
Published: April 2022

This study investigated the inhibitory effects of curcumin and piperine on fluorescent advanced glycation end products (fAGEs) formation in a bovine serum albumin (BSA)–fructose model. Model systems of BSA and fructose were prepared, and curcumin or piperine was added. fAGEs and BSA oxidation product (dityrosine, kynurenine and N'‐formylkynurenine) contents were determined. The results showed that fAGEs content decreased with increasing concentration of curcumin and piperine (P < 0.05). Addition of curcumin and piperine at 160 µg mL−1 could inhibit fluorescent AGEs by 100% and 93% respectively. Dityrosine and N'‐formylkynurenine contents decreased as curcumin and piperine concentration increased (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the result of principal component analysis indicated that curcumin and piperine markedly impeded BSA oxidation, resulting in a lower level of fAGEs in model systems. Therefore, adding curcumin and piperine may facilitate reduced fAGEs levels in BSA–fructose model.
Country‐level mentoring for advanced practice nursing: A case study
Authors: Spies Lori A. , Fox‐Mccloy Helen , Kilpatrick Kelley , Habil Máté Orsolya , Steinke Mary K. , Leach Debbie , Noonan Michal , Brennan Karen , Nanyonga Rose Clarke , Betlehem József , Jokiniemi Krista
Published: April 2022

Aim

To describe the mentoring process between the ICN Advanced Practice Nurse Network practice subgroup and the University of Pécs to support the emerging advanced practice role in Hungary, and explore the creation of a mentoring algorithm for faculty and other key stakeholders worldwide who wish to develop advanced practice nursing programs.

Background

Advanced practice nurses provide comprehensive clinical care and expand access to care in more than 70 countries. In March of 2017, a representative of the Faculty of Health Sciences of the University of Pécs requested assistance in curricula development for the inaugural advanced practice nursing program in Hungary.

Methods

A mixed‐methods single case study was undertaken. The sources of evidence include interviews, e‐mails, review of the literature, and related documents. Qualitative data were analyzed for content, and frequencies were calculated for quantitative indicators.

Findings and discussion

The findings highlight the importance of clear communication, development of shared goals, and determination to see the project through. Enriching information was provided by colleagues from diverse global settings. Credibility was gained in Hungary from the support of national and international experts.

Conclusion

The mentoring foundation and process facilitated the role development in Hungary and contributed to an increased understanding of advanced practice nurses’ scope of practice. The intentional approach and the careful ongoing reflection may lead to future successful endeavors. Multinational engagement and collaborations will promote advanced practice nursing contributions globally.

Implications for nursing policy

Mentoring can effectively empower nurses and advanced practice nurses to work to their full capacity. The shared experiences of international mentoring colleagues can contribute to and support the development and acceptance of national policies for the advanced practice nursing roles.
An omega portfolio model with dynamic return thresholds
Authors: Yu Jing‐Rung , Chiou Wan‐Jiun Paul , Lee Wen‐Yi
Published: April 2022

The Omega ratio grants flexibility to a decision‐maker regarding the selection of a return threshold (τ). Although the return threshold can affect the effectiveness of the Omega portfolio, the literature has not soundly concluded how to determine it. In this paper, we develop a multiple objective programming model to generate time‐varying return thresholds by maximizing the τ value and maximizing the deviation between gain and loss, considering short sales and trading costs in portfolio rebalances. The empirical results using the daily returns of the composite stocks in the S&P 500 index over 13 years suggest that the proposed Omega (Max τ) model realizes higher performances than the widely applied portfolio models and the fixed‐τ Omega models under different rebalancing frequencies. The time‐varying return thresholds generated by our model capture the dynamics of the overall market and can be suitable for index enhancement.
Preparation of spherical α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles by microwave hydrothermal synthesis and addition of nano‐Al seeds
Authors: Wang Zhiyuan , Mai Zenghui , Wu Yixiao , Wang Ying , Cao Zhenzhen , Li Mingliang , Fan Bingbing , Shao Gang , Wang Hailong , Xu Hongliang , Zhang Rui , Lu Hongxia
Published: April 2022

Due to their special appearance, spherical α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles play an important role for obtaining high‐performance structural and functional ceramics. However, there are still problems such as easily agglomerates to form worm‐like structures at high temperatures and difficult availability of spherical nanoparticles. In this study, spherical α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles with high dispersion were prepared by a combination of a microwave hydrothermal method and an addition of nano‐Al particles as seeds. First, spherical amorphous alumina precursors were synthesized by the microwave hydrothermal method at 100°C for 30 min using Al2(SO4)3·18H2O, Al(NO3)3·9H2O, and urea, as raw materials, and then spherical α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles with a diameter of about 66 nm were acquired after calcined the precursor at 1050°C for 90 min by adding nano‐Al seeds, which reduced the calcination temperature by 50°C and holding time by 30 min compared to that without seeds. Kinetic analysis shows that 5 wt.% nano‐Al seeds can reduce the activation energy of crystalline transition of γ‐Al2O3 to α‐Al2O3 from 516.51 to 474.37 kJ/mol. Moreover, the microscopic mechanism of nano‐Al particles as seeds was investigated. The characterizations of sintering properties show that spherical α‐Al2O3 nanoparticles facilitate the acquisition of uniform microstructure for resulting ceramic and the fracture modes include both intergranular and transgranular fractures.
Internal control material weakness disclosure and misstatement duration
Authors: Mao Juan , Ye Zhongxia (Shelly)
Published: April 2022

Only a small proportion of companies that announce restatements disclose existing internal control material weaknesses (ICMWs) over financial reporting during misstatement periods. Using a sample of 1939 restatements related to misstatements between 2003 and 2015, we find that misstatement duration decreases with the disclosure of ICMWs during misstatement periods. Our results are robust to different samples and different measures of the dependent and test variables. We also find that the number of ICMWs disclosed is negatively related to misstatement duration. The disclosure of both entity‐level and process‐level ICMWs is associated with misstatements of shorter duration. Moreover, we find that the negative association between ICMW disclosure frequency and misstatement duration is more salient when restatements are intentional. Despite the negative consequences of reporting existing ICMWs found in prior studies, our results suggest that the disclosure of ICMWs can shorten the duration of misstatement periods, leading to more timely improvement in financial reporting. Hence, our evidence provides context and complements prior research suggesting that companies are penalized for disclosing ICMWs.
Longitudinal relations between impaired executive function and symptoms of psychiatric disorders in childhood
Authors: Halse Marte , Steinsbekk Silje , Hammar Åsa , Wichstrøm Lars
Published: April 2022

Background

Malfunctioning of executive functions correlates with psychopathology in children. However, the directionality, the extent to which the relation varies for various disorders, and whether prospective relations afford causal interpretations are not known.

Methods

A community sample of Norwegian children (n = 874) was studied biennially from the age of 6 to 14 years. Executive functions were assessed using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function Teacher‐report and symptoms of psychopathology were assessed using the Preschool Age Psychiatric Assessment (age 6; parents) and Child and Adolescent Psychiatric Assessment (ages 8–14; children and parents). Prospective reciprocal relations were examined using a random intercept cross‐lagged panel model that adjusts for all unobserved time‐invariant confounders.

Results

Even when time‐invariant confounders were accounted for, reduced executive functions predicted increased symptoms of depressive disorders, anxiety disorders, attention‐deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), oppositional defiant disorder (ODD), and conduct disorder (CD) 2 years later, even when previous changes in these symptoms were adjusted for. The level of prediction (B = .83, 95% CI [.37, 1.3]) was not different for different disorders or ages. Conversely, reduced executive functions were predicted by increased symptoms of all disorders (B = .01, 95% CI [.01, .02]).

Conclusions

Reduced executive functioning may be involved in the etiology of depression, anxiety, ADHD, and ODD/CD to an equal extent. Moreover, increased depression, anxiety, ADHD, and ODD/CD may negatively impact executive functioning.