bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
classecol: Classifiers to understand public opinions of nature
Authors: Johnson Thomas F. , Kent Hebe , Hill Bethan M. , Dunn Georgia , Dommett Leonie , Penwill Natasha , Francis Tom , González‐Suárez Manuela
Published: March 2021

Human perceptions of nature, once the domain of the social sciences, are now an important part of environmental research. However, the data and tools to tackle this research are lacking or are difficult to apply.

Here, we present a collection of text classifier models to identify text relevant to the broad topics of hunting and nature, describing whether opinions are pro‐ or against‐hunting, or show interest, concern or dislike of nature. The methods also include a biographical classification—describing whether the author of the text is a person, nature expert, nature organisation or ‘Other’. The classifiers were developed using an extensive social media dataset, and are designed to support qualitative analysis of big data (especially from Twitter).

The classifiers accurately identified biographies, text related to hunting and nature and the stance towards hunting and nature (weighted F‐scores: 0.79–0.99; 1 indicates perfect accuracy).

These classifiers, alongside an array of other text processing and analysis functions, are presented in the form of an R package classecol. classecol also acts as a proof of concept that nature‐related text classifiers can be developed with high accuracy.
Children of Asian ethnicity in Australia have higher risk of food allergy and early‐onset eczema than those in Singapore
Authors: Suaini Noor H. A. , Loo Evelyn Xiu‐Ling , Peters Rachel L. , Yap Gaik Chin , Allen Katrina J. , Van Bever Hugo , Martino David J. , Goh Anne Eng Neo , Dharmage Shyamali C. , Colega Marjorelee T. , Chong Mary Foong Fong , Ponsonby Anne‐Louise , Tan Kok Hian , Tang Mimi L. K. , Godfrey Keith M. , Lee Bee Wah , Shek Lynette Pei‐Chi , Koplin Jennifer J. , Tham Elizabeth Huiwen
Published: March 2021

Background

In Western countries, Asian children have higher food allergy risk than Caucasian children. The early‐life environmental exposures for this discrepancy are unclear. We aimed to compare prevalence of food allergy and associated risk factors between Asian children in Singapore and Australia.

Methods

We studied children in the Growing Up in Singapore Towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) birth cohort (n = 878) and children of Asian ancestry in the HealthNuts cohort (n = 314). Food allergy was defined as a positive SPT ≥3 mm to egg or peanut AND either a convincing history of IgE‐mediated reaction at 18 months (GUSTO) or a positive oral food challenge at 14‐18 months (HealthNuts). Eczema was defined as parent‐reported doctor diagnosis.

Results

Food allergy prevalence was 1.1% in Singapore and 15.0% in Australia (P<0.001). Egg introduction was more often delayed (>10 months) in Singapore (63.5%) than Australia (16.3%; P<0.001). Prevalence of early‐onset eczema (<6 months) was lower in Singapore (8.4%) than Australia (30.5%) (P<0.001). Children with early‐onset eczema were more likely to have food allergy than those without eczema in Australia [aOR 5.11 (2.34‐11.14); P<0.001] and Singapore [aOR4.00 (0.62‐25.8); P = 0.145].

Conclusions

Among Asian children, prevalence of early‐onset eczema and food allergy was higher in Australia than Singapore. Further research with larger sample sizes and harmonized definitions of food allergy between cohorts is required to confirm and extend these findings. Research on environmental factors influencing eczema onset in Australia and Singapore may aid understanding of food allergy pathogenesis in different parts of the world.
Trends and outcomes in Australian carotid artery revascularization surgery: 2010–2017
Authors: Murtidjaja Michelle , Stathis Alexandra O. , Thomas Shannon D. , Beiles Charles Barry , Mwipatayi Bibombe Patrice , Katib Nedal , Varcoe Ramon L.
Published: March 2021

Background

Carotid endarterectomy (CEA) and carotid artery stenting (CAS) reduce the risk of stroke in patients with severe carotid stenosis. The aim was to compare contemporary treatment trends and outcomes after CEA and CAS between states of Australia.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on data from the Australasian Vascular Audit between 2010 and 2017. The primary endpoint was perioperative stroke or death (S/D). We also analysed stroke and death independently and revascularization rates per 100 000 population.

Results

A total of 15 413 patients underwent carotid revascularization (CEA 14 070; CAS 1343). S/D rates were similar for CEA and CAS (1.9% versus 1.8%; P = 0.37; symptomatic 2.1% versus 2.3%; P = 0.12; asymptomatic 1.5% versus 1.1%; P = 0.67). Patients ≥80 years (2.7% versus 1.7%; P = 0.01), those who had shunts (2.2% versus 1.7%; P = 0.03) or surgery in teaching hospitals (2.6% versus 1.4%; P = 0.02) had higher rates of S/D after CEA. Patients whose proceduralist used a cerebral protection device had lower S/D rates after CAS for symptomatic disease (4.8% versus 2.2%; P = 0.03). There was a wide variation in practice between states, where CAS as a proportion of total carotid procedures ranged from 0% to 17%, and a wide variation in outcomes, with rates of S/D varying between 1.4–6.6% for CEA and 0–6.7% after CAS.

Conclusion

Outcomes after CAS are equivalent to CEA when performed by vascular surgeons, however significant variation exists for both choice of revascularization procedure and perioperative outcomes between states. Further investigation is needed to determine whether clinical care pathways should be revised to achieve consistency and quality of outcomes.
Carceral Geographies from Inside Prison Gates: The Micro‐Politics of Everyday Racialisation
Authors: Bloch Stefano , Olivares‐Pelayo Enrique Alan
Published: March 2021

Addressing a need for carceral geographical research conducted from inside prison gates, we discuss the spatial context in which racialisation occurs, including its relationship to the performance of prison “politics”. We argue that the convoluted and contentious racial categorisation of prison inmates that begins with “racial priming” and results in “racial sorting” possesses a spatial logic derived from institutional partitioning and street‐level cordoning of individual and group identities. We reveal how racialisation is relied upon through both a self‐segregation and institutional classification system at the micro scale. Based on autoethnographic reflection as formerly jailed and incarcerated individuals, and through a reading of sociological, criminological, and geographical literatures, we argue that the logic of everyday micro‐scale racial identity formation has more to do with location, gang alliances, antagonisms, and the necessary navigating of prison “politics” and protocol than with conceptualisations of “race” engendered by racial capitalism and enforced by the racial state.
Shaping a global comparative imagination? Assessing the role of city rankings in the “global city” discourse
Authors: Acuto Michele , Pejic Daniel
Published: March 2021

The last decade has seen “global” and “comparative” forms of urbanism flourish, and critiques thereof expand. While in theory the discussion on the value or shortcomings of global city thinking has thrived, in practice many cities have applied it through expanding international outlooks and collaborations through mounting numbers of partnerships and networks. This has also witnessed a growing sense of competition between peers near and far for investment, talent, and tourism. The “comparative gestures” of cities are increasingly common not just in research but in practice, with expanding ranks of city benchmarking to testify to the popularity of “actually existing” comparative thinking. While there has been a significant rise in the number of city rankings and indexes, as well as increased scholarly interest in comparative urban analysis, how benchmarking is shaping the imagination of those driving urban policymaking or indeed how it relates to global city thinking is still little understood. This study aimed to identify correlations between an appreciation of city rankings and “global city” thinking, especially in cities that have emerged on the “map” of global urbanism. It draws on 170 interviews with a variety of key urban development stakeholders in Dubai, Singapore, and Sydney, focusing on how city rankings relate to the ways we speak of global cities. It suggests a close but nuanced correlation between global city thinking and benchmarking in these cities, but also a wider “map” of comparative gestures than we may have anticipated.
How reliable are surgeon‐reported data? A comparison of the British Association of Urological Surgeons radical prostatectomy audit with the National Prostate Cancer Audit Hospital Episode Statistics‐linked database
Authors: Aning Jonathan J. , Parry Matthew G. , van der Meulen Jan , Fowler Sarah , Payne Heather , McGrath John S. , Challacombe Ben , Clarke Noel W. ,   the BAUS Section of Oncology, the National Prostate Cancer Audit
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the accuracy and completeness of surgeon‐reported radical prostatectomy outcome data across a national health system by comparison with a national dataset gathered independently from clinicians directly involved in patient care.

Patients and Methods

Data submitted by surgeons to the British Association of Urological Surgeons (BAUS) radical prostatectomy audit for all men undergoing radical prostatectomy between 2015 and 2016 were assessed by cross linkage to the National Prostate Cancer Audit (NPCA) database. Specific data items collected in both databases were selected for comparison analysis. Data completeness and agreement were assessed by percentages and Cohen’s kappa statistic.

Results

Data from 4707 men in the BAUS and NPCA databases were matched for comparison. Compared with the NPCA, dataset completeness was higher in the BAUS dataset for type of nerve‐sparing procedure (92% vs 42%) and postoperative margin status (89% vs 48%) but lower for readmission (87% vs 100%) and Charlson score (80% vs 100%). For all other variables assessed completeness was comparable. Agreement and data reliability were high for most variables. However, despite good agreement, the inter‐cohort reliability was poor for readmission, M stage and Charlson score (κ < 0.30).

Conclusions

For the first time in urology we show that surgeon‐reported data from the BAUS radical prostatectomy audit can reliably be used to benchmark peri‐operative radical prostatectomy outcomes. For comorbidity data, to assist with risk analysis, and longer‐term outcomes, NPCA routinely collected data provide a more comprehensive source.
Impact of menopausal hormone therapy on colorectal cancer risk—A systematic review
Authors: Nakhostin Livia , Stadler Aurelia , Stute Petra
Published: March 2021

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second most frequently diagnosed cancer in females worldwide. Menopausal hormone therapy (MHT) has been proposed as a potential protective factor for the development of CRC. Yet, the available evidence is controversial. Thus, we aimed at summarizing the current evidence on the effect of MHT on CRC through a systematic review. A systematic literature search identified 1001 potentially relevant articles, out of which 57 original studies and nine meta‐analyses were deemed eligible for the final synthesis. The evidence synthesis showed the following: (1) MHT showed a heterogeneity in findings for CRC risk with a slight tendency to a neutral or protective effect; (2) MHT effect was either neutral or protective on colorectal adenoma; (3) MHT had no impact on tumour grade, subsite and histologic types; (4) MHT was not associated with CRC mortality; and (5) MHT showed heterogeneous effects on CRC stage and invasiveness, respectively. In summary, despite some evidence pointing towards a protective effect of MHT on CRC, MHT is currently not recommended for primary CRC prevention by international guidelines due to several important, potentially harmful effects.
Constructs of childhood, generation and heroism in editorials on young people's climate change activism: Their mobilisation and effects
Authors: Raby Rebecca , Sheppard Lindsay C.
Published: March 2021

We analyse the effects of constructions and mobilisations of childhood, generation and girl heroism in 30 Canadian editorials written in response to 2019 climate change protests. We discuss how the editorials strategically position—and sometimes dismiss—young activists through discourses of childhood innocence, becoming and social participation. Second, we focus on how the editorials mobilise generation to emphasise either generational division or cross‐generational solidarity. Finally, we problematise the editorials' concentration on individualised girl heroism. We thus contextualise and deconstruct truth statements around age, generation and heroism, emphasising instead their effects and the potential for certain narratives to better recognise the diversity and solidarity in climate change activism.
The species awareness index as a conservation culturomics metric for public biodiversity awareness
Authors: Millard Joseph W. , Gregory Richard D. , Jones Kate E. , Freeman Robin
Published: March 2021

Although threats to global biodiversity are well known, slowing current rates of biodiversity loss remains a challenge. The Aichi targets set out 20 goals on which the international community should act to alleviate biodiversity decline, 1 of which (Target 1) aims to raise public awareness of the importance of biodiversity. Although conventional indicators for Target 1 are of low spatial and temporal coverage, conservation culturomics metrics show how biodiversity awareness can be quantified at the global scale. Following methods used for the Living Planet Index, we devised a species awareness index (SAI) to measure change in species awareness based on Wikipedia views. We calculated this index at the page level for 41,197 species listed by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) across 10 Wikipedia languages and >2 billion views from 1 July 2015 to 30 March 2020. Bootstrapped indices for the page‐level SAI showed that overall awareness of biodiversity increased marginally over time, although there were differences among taxonomic classes and languages. Among taxonomic classes, overall awareness increased fastest for reptiles and slowest for amphibians. Among languages, overall species awareness increased fastest for Japanese and slowest for Chinese and German users. Although awareness of species as a whole increased and was significantly higher for traded species, from January 2016 through January 2020, change in awareness appeared not to be strongly related to whether the species is traded or is a pollinator. As a data source for public biodiversity awareness, the SAI could be integrated into the Conservation International Biodiversity Engagement Indicator.
How to address data privacy concerns when using social media data in conservation science
Authors: Di Minin Enrico , Fink Christoph , Hausmann Anna , Kremer Jens , Kulkarni Ritwik
Published: March 2021

Social media data are being increasingly used in conservation science to study human–nature interactions. User‐generated content, such as images, video, text, and audio, and the associated metadata can be used to assess such interactions. A number of social media platforms provide free access to user‐generated social media content. However, similar to any research involving people, scientific investigations based on social media data require compliance with highest standards of data privacy and data protection, even when data are publicly available. Should social media data be misused, the risks to individual users' privacy and well‐being can be substantial. We investigated the legal basis for using social media data while ensuring data subjects’ rights through a case study based on the European Union's General Data Protection Regulation. The risks associated with using social media data in research include accidental and purposeful misidentification that has the potential to cause psychological or physical harm to an identified person. To collect, store, protect, share, and manage social media data in a way that prevents potential risks to users involved, one should minimize data, anonymize data, and follow strict data management procedure. Risk‐based approaches, such as a data privacy impact assessment, can be used to identify and minimize privacy risks to social media users, to demonstrate accountability and to comply with data protection legislation. We recommend that conservation scientists carefully consider our recommendations in devising their research objectives so as to facilitate responsible use of social media data in conservation science research, for example, in conservation culturomics and investigations of illegal wildlife trade online.
Subjective modeling choices and the robustness of impact evaluations in conservation science
Authors: Desbureaux Sébastien
Published: March 2021

Arbitrary modeling choices are inevitable in scientific studies. Yet, few empirical studies in conservation science report the effects these arbitrary choices have on estimated results. I explored the effects of subjective modeling choices in the context of counterfactual impact evaluations. Over 5000 candidate models based on reasonable changes in the choice of statistical matching algorithms (e.g., genetic and nearest distance mahalanobis matching), the parametrization of these algorithms (e.g., number of matches), and the inclusion of specific covariates (e.g., distance to nearest city, slope, or rainfall) were valid for studying the effect of Virunga National Park in Democratic Republic of the Congo on changes in tree cover loss and carbon storage over time. I randomly picked 2000 of the 5000 candidate models to determine how much and which subjective modeling choices affected the results the most. All valid models indicated that tree cover loss decreased and carbon storage increased in Virunga National Park from 2000 to 2019. Nonetheless, the order of magnitude of the estimates varied by a factor of 3 (from −4.78 to −13.12 percentage points decrease in tree cover loss and from 20 to 46 t Ce/ha for carbon storage). My results highlight that modeling choices, notably the choice of the matching algorithm, can have significant effects on point estimates and suggest that more structured robustness checks are a key step toward more credible findings in conservation science.
Subjective sleep‐related breathing disorders and executive function in children with intermittent or mild persistent asthma
Authors: Gidaris Dimos , Stabouli Stella , Eleftheriou Kleio , Cassimos Dimitrios , Urquhart Don , Kotsis Vasilios , Zafeiriou Dimitrios
Published: March 2021

Objective

The impact on executive function performance of sleep‐related disorders in asthmatic children has been scarcely studied in community settings. The aims of the present study were to assess the prevalence of sleep‐related breathing disorders (SRBD) in children with intermittent or mild persistent asthma in primary care settings, and to examine the possible correlations with measures of executive function.

Methods

We performed a case–control study including 76 children with asthma (intermittent or mild persistent) and 85 healthy controls. The parents of both patients and controls completed the Paediatric Seep Questionnaire (PSQ) and the Behaviour Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF) questionnaire.

Results

We did not find any statistically significant differences regarding the scales of PSQ. Additionally, there were no statistical differences between asthmatic children and controls regarding the scales of the BRIEF questionnaire. In both asthmatic children and controls the score of the scale of obstructive sleep‐related breathing disorder was significantly correlated with the T scores of the two composite scales (BRI and MI) and the Global Executive Composite.

Conclusion

In children with intermittent or mild persistent asthma under the care of private general paediatricians there were no statistically significant differences regarding subjective SBD compared to the healthy controls. Also there were no statistical differences between asthmatic children and controls regarding behavioural correlates of executive function during everyday life.
Self‐reported sleep disturbance and mild cognitive impairment in COPD patients with severe airflow limitation
Authors: Barata Paula Irina , Marc Monica Steluta , Tudorache Emanuela , Frandes Mirela , Crisan Alexandru Florian , Olar Dana Cristina , Oancea Cristian
Published: March 2021

Introduction

COPD has multiple extrapulmonary manifestations and the latest studies have focused on cognitive dysfunction effects on sleep quality. The purpose of this study is to assess if there is a relationship between sleep quality and cognitive decline in COPD patients with severe airflow limitation.

Methods

We performed an observational study to determine if there is a link between cognitive function and sleep quality. The included patients were divided into two groups: a group with COPD patients and control group. We evaluated lung volumes, cognitive function, sleep quality and disease impact on the quality of life.

Results

Most of the COPD patients presented mild cognitive impairment (MCI) (95.7%), compared with only 24.1% in the control group (Pearson chi‐square χ2(1) = 42.560, p < 0.001). We observed that all the COPD patients were poor sleepers, while only 13.8% of the control patients presented a poor sleep (Pearson chi‐square χ2(1) = 60.379, p < 0.001). We observed that poor sleep was significantly associated with MCI (OR = 9.200; 95% CI = 3.656‐23.153; p < 0.001). At the same time, when considering only the COPD patients with moderate disease impact, poor sleep was also a risk factor for MCI (OR = 1.210; 95% CI = 1.016‐1.440; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

COPD patients with severe airflow limitation report a high prevalence of poor sleep quality and cognitive function. We observed a significant association between cognitive function and sleep quality.
Association of CMV‐specific T‐cell immunity and risk of CMV infection in lung transplant recipients
Authors: Veit Tobias , Pan Ming , Munker Dieter , Arnold Paola , Dick Andrea , Kunze Susanne , Meiser Bruno , Schneider Christian , Michel Sebastian , Zoller Michael , Böhm Stephan , Walter Julia , Behr Jürgen , Kneidinger Nikolaus , Kauke Teresa
Published: March 2021

Background

Protecting against CMV infection and maintaining CMV in latent state are largely provided by CMV‐specific T‐cells in lung transplant recipients. The aim of the study was to assess whether a specific T‐cell response is associated with the risk for CMV infection in seronegative patients who are at high risk for delayed CMV infection.

Methods

All CMV‐seronegative recipients (R−) from CMV‐seropositive donors (D+) between January 2018 and April 2019 were included and retrospectively screened for CMV infection before and after assessment of CMV‐specific cell‐mediated immunity.

Results

Thirty‐one of the 50 patients (62%) developed early‐onset CMV infection. Lower absolute neutrophil counts were significantly associated with early‐onset CMV infection. Antiviral prophylaxis was ceased after 137.2 ± 42.8 days. CMV‐CMI were measured at a median of 5.5 months after LTx. 19 patients experienced early and late‐onset CMV infection after prophylaxis withdrawal within 15 months post transplantation. Positive CMV‐CMI was significantly associated with lower risk of late‐onset CMV infection after transplantation in logistic and cox‐regression analysis (OR=0.05, p = .01; OR=2,369, p = .026).

Conclusion

D+/R− lung transplant recipients are at high risk of developing early and late‐onset CMV infection. Measurement of CMV‐CMI soon after transplantation might further define the CMV infection prediction risk in LTx recipients being at high risk for CMV viremia.
The top 100 most‐cited papers authored by Dr. Jens Ove Andreasen: A bibliometric analysis
Authors: Santos Pablo Silveira , dos Santos Natália , Moccelini Bárbara Suelen , Bolan Michele , Santana Carla Miranda , Martins‐Junior Paulo Antônio , Cardoso Mariane
Published: March 2021

Background/Aim

Dr. Jens Ove Andreasen, the “father” of dental traumatology, passed away on September 26, 2020. As a tribute, the aim of this study was to catalog and analyze the top 100 most‐cited papers (co)authored by Dr. Andreasen.

Materials and Methods

A bibliometric analysis was conducted on October 21, 2020, in the Web of Science Core Collection (WoS‐CC) database. The numbers of citations in the WoS “All Databases” section, Scopus, and Google Scholar databases were cross‐matched. Two researchers collected the following bibliometric data: title, number of citations, authors, country, year, journals, study design, and theme. The VOSviewer software was used to generate collaborative network maps for the authors and keywords.

Results

Of 194 papers identified in WoS‐CC, a list was compiled with the 100 most‐cited papers (co)authored by Dr. Andreasen. The number of citations of each paper ranged from 24 to 365 (mean: 85.4). Nine papers were cited more than 200 times. Most papers were published in Dental Traumatology (55%), between the 1990's and 2000's (60%), with a laboratory design (40%). One hundred and nine (co)authors, from 19 countries were identified in the top 100 most‐cited papers. Dental traumatology was the most studied theme (52%).

Conclusions

The top 100 most‐cited papers (co)authored by Dr. Jens Ove Andreasen were composed mainly of laboratory and observational studies, published mostly in Dental Traumatology. The present study was a humble homage to highlight the importance of his research and work. However, his legacy goes beyond the numbers and will always remain unsurpassed.
European plants lagging behind climate change pay a climatic debt in the North, but are favoured in the South
Authors: Duchenne François , Martin Gabrielle , Porcher Emmanuelle
Published: March 2021

For many species, climate change leads to range shifts that are detectable, but often insufficient to track historical climatic conditions. These lags of species range shifts behind climatic conditions are often coined “climatic debts”, but the demographic costs entailed by the word “debt” have not been demonstrated. Here, we used opportunistic distribution data for c. 4000 European plant species to estimate the temporal shifts in climatic conditions experienced by these species and their occupancy trends, over the last 65 years. The resulting negative relationship observed between these two variables provides the first piece of evidence that European plants are already paying a climatic debt in Alpine, Atlantic and Boreal regions. In contrast, plants appear to benefit from a surprising “climatic bonus” in the Mediterranean. We also find that among multiple pressures faced by plants, climate change is now on par with other known drivers of occupancy trends, including eutrophication and urbanisation.
Macrogenetic studies must not ignore limitations of genetic markers and scale
Authors: Paz‐Vinas Ivan , Jensen Evelyn L. , Bertola Laura D. , Breed Martin F. , Hand Brian K. , Hunter Margaret E. , Kershaw Francine , Leigh Deborah M. , Luikart Gordon , Mergeay Joachim , Miller Joshua M. , Van Rees Charles B. , Segelbacher Gernot , Hoban Sean
Published: March 2021

Millette et al. (Ecology Letters, 2020, 23:55–67) reported no consistent worldwide anthropogenic effects on animal genetic diversity using repurposed mitochondrial DNA sequences. We reexamine data from this study, describe genetic marker and scale limitations which might lead to misinterpretations with conservation implications, and provide advice to improve future macrogenetic studies.
The mycorrhizal tragedy of the commons
Authors: Henriksson Nils , Franklin Oskar , Tarvainen Lasse , Marshall John , Lundberg‐Felten Judith , Eilertsen Lill , Näsholm Torgny
Published: March 2021

Trees receive growth‐limiting nitrogen from their ectomycorrhizal symbionts, but supplying the fungi with carbon can also cause nitrogen immobilization, which hampers tree growth. We present results from field and greenhouse experiments combined with mathematical modelling, showing that these are not conflicting outcomes. Mycorrhizal networks connect multiple trees, and we modulated C provision by strangling subsets of Pinus sylvestris trees, assuming that carbon supply to fungi was reduced proportionally to the strangled fraction. We conclude that trees gain additional nitrogen at the expense of their neighbours by supplying more carbon to the fungi. But this additional carbon supply aggravates nitrogen limitation via immobilization of the shared fungal biomass. We illustrate the evolutionary underpinnings of this situation by drawing on the analogous tragedy of the commons, where the shared mycorrhizal network is the commons, and explain how rising atmospheric CO2 may lead to greater nitrogen immobilization in the future.
Varying genetic imprints of road networks and human density in North American mammal populations
Authors: Habrich Andrew K. , Lawrence Elizabeth R. , Fraser Dylan J.
Published: March 2021

Road networks and human density are major factors contributing to habitat fragmentation and loss, isolation of wildlife populations, and reduced genetic diversity. Terrestrial mammals are particularly sensitive to road networks and encroachment by human populations. However, there are limited assessments of the impacts of road networks and human density on population‐specific nuclear genetic diversity, and it remains unclear how these impacts are modulated by life‐history traits. Using generalized linear mixed models and microsatellite data from 1444 North American terrestrial mammal populations, we show that taxa with large home range sizes, dense populations, and large body sizes had reduced nuclear genetic diversity with increasing road impacts and human density, but the overall influence of life‐history traits was generally weak. Instead, we observed a high degree of genus‐specific variation in genetic responses to road impacts and human density. Human density negatively affected allelic diversity or heterozygosity more than road networks (13 vs. 5–7 of 25 assessed genera, respectively); increased road networks and human density also positively affected allelic diversity and heterozygosity in 15 and 6–9 genera, respectively. Large‐bodied, human‐averse species were generally more negatively impacted than small, urban‐adapted species. Genus‐specific responses to habitat fragmentation by ongoing road development and human encroachment likely depend on the specific capability to (i) navigate roads as either barriers or movement corridors, and (ii) exploit resource‐rich urban environments. The nonuniform genetic response to roads and human density highlights the need to implement efforts to mitigate the risk of vehicular collisions, while also facilitating gene flow between populations of particularly vulnerable taxa.
Epigenetic‐modifying therapies: An emerging avenue for the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases
Authors: Yi Julie Z. , McGee Jean S.
Published: March 2021

Epigenetic modifications include DNA methylation, histone modification and the action of microRNAs. These mechanisms coordinate in complex networks to control gene expression, thereby regulating key physiological processes in the skin and immune system. Recently, researchers have turned to the epigenome to understand the pathogenesis of inflammatory skin diseases. In psoriasis and atopic dermatitis, epigenetic modifications contribute to key pathogenic events such as immune activation, T‐cell polarization and keratinocyte dysfunction. These discoveries have introduced new possibilities for the treatment of skin diseases; unlike genetics, epigenetic alterations are readily modifiable and potentially reversible. In this viewpoint essay, we summarize the current state of epigenetic research in inflammatory skin diseases and propose that targeting the histone machinery is a promising avenue for the development of new therapies for psoriasis and atopic dermatitis. Expanding on the progress that has already been made in the field of cancer epigenetics, we discuss existing epigenetic‐modifying tools that can be applied to the treatment of inflammatory skin diseases and consider future directions for investigation in order to allow for the widespread clinical application of such therapies.
Computational modelling of stem cell–niche interactions facilitates discovery of strategies to enhance tissue regeneration and counteract ageing
Authors: Potapov Ilya , García‐Prat Laura , Ravichandran Srikanth , Muñoz‐Cánoves Pura , del Sol Antonio
Published: March 2021

The stem cell niche is a specialized microenvironment for stem cells in an adult tissue. The niche provides cues for the maintenance and regulation of stem cell activities and thus presents a target for potential rejuvenating strategies. García‐Prat et al. found that in the heterogeneous population of quiescent stem cells of skeletal muscles, a fraction of cells responsible for regeneration and having genuine ‘stemness’ properties deteriorates only in extremely old age. An essential tool used in this analysis of stem cell–niche interactions is the computational tool, NicheHotSpotter, which proved to be instrumental for identifying niche and cell signalling factors that contribute to the maintenance of the pool of genuine quiescent stem cells. NicheHotSpotter predicts candidate factors by analysing signalling interactome and gene regulatory network data in combination with expression profiles. The effect of the niche environment on stem cells is modelled as a mean field of niche cues that induce sustained activation or inhibition of signalling pathways. In this way, NicheHotSpotter has been successful in delineating novel strategies to enhance stemness, which may rejuvenate skeletal muscle cells at the extreme old age.
Intranasal midazolam for the sedation of geriatric patients with care‐resistant behaviour during essential dental treatment: An observational study
Authors: Barends Clemens R. M. , Absalom Anthony R. , Visser Anita
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To describe the efficacy and safety of intranasal midazolam for sedation during essential dental treatment of geriatric patients with major neurocognitive disorder (MND) and care‐resistant behaviour (CRB).

Background

Dental treatment is often impossible in geriatric MND patients with CRB. Intranasal midazolam may provide a non‐invasive sedation method, but there is currently no information on its use in geriatric patients.

Methods

In this observational study, we included geriatric patients with severe MND and CRB needing urgent dental treatment. Each patient received 5 mg midazolam intranasally. Agitation/sedation levels, heart rate, respiration rate and oxygen saturation were recorded at 5‐minute intervals.

Results

Thirty two patients were included. Mean age was 84 (±7) years. Mean (SD) time to treatment start was 13 (±5) minutes, and mean time to maximum sedation 17 (±11) minutes. Sedation was sufficient to enable dental treatment to be completed in 31 (97%) patients. Anxiolysis/light sedation occurred in 16 (50%) patients, and moderate to deep sedation occurred in 16 (50%) patients. No patients suffered from apnoea, although 3 patients required a chin‐lift manoeuvre. Hypoxaemia occurred in 1 of these patients and in 2 other patients without airway obstruction. All patients recovered uneventfully. In a regression model, age, weight and other sedative medication use were found not to be associated with maximum sedation depth.

Conclusions

Of 5 mg intranasal midazolam facilitates treatment of geriatric patients with MND in the comfort of their own environment. More information is needed to guide titration to balance the desired sedation level and patient safety.
Posterior teeth occlusion is related independently to onset of fever in residents of aged person welfare facility: prospective cohort study
Authors: Izumi Maya , Isobe Ayaka , Akifusa Sumio
Published: March 2021

Background

Onset of fever is a common presentation of symptoms in older adults. Loss of posterior teeth occlusion provokes dysphagia, which is commonly related to infectious diseases of the respiratory tract. However, a correlation between posterior teeth occlusion and the onset of fever has not been studied. The aim of the present study was to investigate whether posterior teeth occlusion is correlated with the onset of fever in residents of aged person welfare facilities.

Methods

This perspective cohort study was carried out from February 2019 to December 2019 in Kitakyushu, Japan. The follow‐up period was 8 months. Overall, 141 residents aged ≥ 65 years from 10 aged person welfare facility were included. Dates when the body temperatures of participants were more than 37.2°C were recorded. Posterior teeth occlusion was evaluated by assessing functional tooth units (FTUs).

Results

Data from 100 participants [median age, 89 (67‐102)] were used for analysis. Total of 53 participants got a fever. The Kaplan‐Meier analysis showed that the average period until onset of fever in participants with scores 0, 1‐11 and 12 for FTU was 7.7 ± 0.6, 7.4 ± 1.0 and 3.9 ± 1.0, respectively. Cox's proportional hazards regression model revealed that participants with FTU = 0 were at higher risk of fever compared with those with FTU = 12 (hazards ratio: 3.2, 95% confidence interval: 1.4‐7.7), adjusted for possible confounders.

Conclusions

Posterior teeth occlusion correlated with the risk of fever in older residents of nursing homes.
Trigeminal neuralgia as the sole neurological manifestation of COVID‐19: A case report
Authors: Molina‐Gil Javier , González‐Fernández Lucía , García‐Cabo Carmen
Published: March 2021

Objective

To describe a case report of trigeminal neuralgia (TN) due to coronavirus disease‐2019 (COVID‐19).

Background

In March 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID‐19 as a pandemic. Respiratory system manifestations are dominant in this new disease. However, numerous case series and reviews have been published on the neurological manifestations, highlighting the potential neurotropism of the new coronavirus.

Methods

We describe a clinical case of TN during COVID‐19 and we discuss the differential diagnosis and the potential pathogenic mechanism according to the literature.

Results

A 65‐year‐old man with general malaise and typical respiratory symptoms of COVID‐19, who presented with paroxysmal lancinating pain in the right V1 trigeminal territory without other neurological symptoms. General blood test and neuroimaging study were normal. A rapid test showed positive IgG and IgM serologies for severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2). The patient was diagnosed with TN secondary to a viral infection by SARS‐CoV‐2. Facial pain resolved with the improvement of COVID‐19.

Conclusions

The new coronavirus SARS‐CoV‐2 is a possible etiology of secondary TN. Nevertheless, more studies are needed to elucidate the neuropathology of this viral infection.
Characterization and use of clays from the Rio Bonito Formation/Paraná Basin for ceramic industry application
Authors: Comin André Biava , Zaccaron Alexandre , Nandi Vitor de Souza , Inocente Jordana Mariot , Muller Thuani Gesser , Peterson Michael
Published: March 2021

Raw materials with different technological properties found in the same geological region can constitute a ceramic formulation upon proper mixing. This study aims to demonstrate the best way to develop a mixture using a mixture design method, emphasizing the geology of three clays in the Rio Bonito Formation/Paraná Basin. The mineralogical and chemical characteristics of these clays were investigated by X‐ray diffraction and X‐ray fluorescence, respectively, along with elementary (CNH), differential thermal and thermogravimetric analysis, and dilatometry. Ten formulations and their technological properties, including apparent density, shrinkage, water absorption, and mechanical resistance, were investigated. The results showed the potential of the studied mineral deposit clays for application in the ceramic industry in different materials. Clay 1 showed refractory characteristics, and Clay 3 was more plastic. The mixtures with higher contents of Clay 1 showed ideal for monoporosa tile recipes. The mixtures with higher contents of Clay 3 were ideal for porcelain tile pastes.
Dietary polysaccharide from Mung bean [Vigna radiate (Linn.) Wilczek] skin modulates gut microbiota and short‐chain fatty acids in mice
Authors: Xie Jianhua , Song Qianqian , Yu Qiang , Chen Yi , Hong Yuzhen , Shen Mingyue
Published: March 2021

Cumulative evidence revealed that the gut microbiota play important role in human health. Polysaccharide from Mung bean [Vigna radiate (Linn.) Wilczek] skin has been confirmed to have a variety of biological activities, but its effect on the gut microbiota has not been considered. This study aimed to investigate the effect of hot water extraction of mung bean skin water‐soluble polysaccharides (MBP‐2) on the gut microbiota of Balb/c mice and its main metabolite short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs). The results showed that supplementation with MBP‐2 increased the colon length and the production of SCFAs in Balb/c mice, and improved the intestinal microenvironment by producing SCFAs, which is beneficial to the intestinal health of mice. MBP‐2 increased the Chao1 index and ACE index in a dose‐depended manner, and changed the structure of the gut microbiota and significantly promoted the growth of probiotic bacteria in Balb/c mice. The faecal bacterial flora of mice is mainly composed of nine phyla and twenty‐seven genera, MBP‐2 can regulate the composition of intestinal flora by increasing Firmicutes, Bacteroidetes, Clostridium and decreasing TM7, thereby maintaining intestinal health.
Textural quality of sweet dumpling: effect of germination of waxy rice
Authors: Xu Ke , She Zhenyun , Wang Hongwei , Liu Xingli , Zhang Yanyan , Chi Chengdeng , Zhang Hua
Published: March 2021

Effects of germination on components and structural changes of rice flours and, in turn, rheological properties and textural attributes of sweet dumplings were investigated in this study. Germination decreased starch, protein and lipid content, while slightly increased free amino acids content. Starch granular surface corroded, crystalline structure disrupted, and short‐range ordered structures and helical structures decreased with germination. Moreover, germination resulted in a decreased paste viscosity and gel intensity of flour and a reduction of hardness and adhesiveness of dumplings. According to the Pearson’s correlation analysis, flours components and starch structures were significantly correlated with flours rheological properties that determined textural attributes of sweet dumplings. The germination contributed to significant changes in flours components and starch structures, which suggested the pretreatment of germination of waxy rice could be a promising pathway to control textural properties of sweet dumplings.
Platelets: "multiple choice" effectors in the immune response and their implication in COVID‐19 thromboinflammatory process
Authors: Rolla Roberta , Puricelli Chiara , Bertoni Alessandra , Boggio Elena , Gigliotti Casimiro Luca , Chiocchetti Annalisa , Cappellano Giuseppe , Dianzani Umberto
Published: March 2021

Although platelets are traditionally recognized for their central role in hemostasis, the presence of chemotactic factors, chemokines, adhesion molecules, and costimulatory molecules in their granules and membranes indicates that they may play an immunomodulatory role in the immune response, flanking their capacity to trigger blood coagulation and inflammation. Indeed, platelets play a role not only in the innate immune response, through the expression of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs) and release of inflammatory cytokines, but also in the adaptive immune response, through expression of key costimulatory molecules and major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules capable to activate T cells. Moreover, platelets release huge amounts of extracellular vesicles capable to interact with multiple immune players. The function of platelets thus extends beyond aggregation and implies a multifaceted interplay between hemostasis, inflammation, and the immune response, leading to the amplification of the body's defense processes on one hand, but also potentially degenerating into life‐threatening pathological processes on the other. This narrative review summarizes the current knowledge and the most recent updates on platelet immune functions and interactions with infectious agents, with a particular focus on their involvement in COVID‐19, whose pathogenesis involves a dysregulation of hemostatic and immune processes in which platelets may be determinant causative agents.
Ripe to be heard: Worker voice in the Fair Food Program
Authors: MIERES Fabiola , MCGRATH Siobhán
Published: March 2021

The Fair Food Program (FFP) provides a mechanism through which agricultural workers’ collective voice is expressed, heard and responded to within global value chains. The FFP's model of worker‐driven social responsibility presents an alternative to traditional corporate social responsibility. This article identifies the FFP's key components and demonstrates its resilience by identifying the ways in which the issues faced by a new group of migrant workers – recruited through a “guest‐worker” scheme – were incorporated and dealt with. This case study highlights the important potential presented by the programme to address labour abuses across transnationalized labour markets while considering early replication possibilities.
Brief training in child and adolescent mental health: Impact on the knowledge and attitudes of pediatric nurses in Nigeria
Authors: Onileimo Victoria , Bella‐Awusah Tolulope , Lasebikan Victor , Omigbodun Olayinka
Published: March 2021

Problem

Poor knowledge and stigmatizing attitudes of healthcare professionals constitute a significant barrier to child and adolescent mental health care worldwide. This study aimed to determine the effect of a training intervention on the knowledge and attitudes of pediatric nurses to child mental health problems at a Nigerian tertiary hospital.

Methods

A two group pretest–posttest study design was undertaken. A total of 156 pediatric nurses were recruited, and participants in the intervention group received a brief child mental health training based on the World Health Organization's mhGAP training manual. Knowledge and attitudes to child mental health problems were obtained at baseline, and post intervention.

Findings

There were no differences in knowledge or attitudes across the two groups at baseline. Post intervention, there was a significant increase in the mean post knowledge scores of the intervention group compared with the control group (t = 3.8, p < .001). The effect size of the intervention was 0.62. There were no significant differences in mean post attitude scores across groups.

Conclusion

Incorporating children and adolescents mental health competencies into the training of nurses had a modest effect on their knowledge, but limited effect on their attitudes.