bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of the integrated reporting framework on corporate social responsibility (CSR) disclosures – the case of South African mining companies
Authors: Ackers Barry , Grobbelaar Susanna Elizabeth
Published: July 2021

Purpose

Despite initially being lauded as a revolutionary approach for companies to account to all stakeholders, the shareholder orientation of the international integrated reporting () framework gave rise to questions about whether integrated reports would still sufficiently disclose pertinent corporate social responsibility (CSR) information. This paper aims to investigate the extent to which the  framework has impacted the CSR disclosures contained in integrated reports of South African mining companies.

Design/methodology/approach

The study deployed a mixed methods research approach, involving thematic content analysis of the CSR disclosures contained in the integrated reports of mining companies with primary listings on the Johannesburg Stock Exchange. The resultant qualitative data were subsequently analysed using a T-test of difference.

Findings

The study observes that the release of the  framework appears to have had a limited impact on the CSR disclosures in the integrated reports of most companies included in the study. However, where significant differences were identified, the CSR disclosures of some companies were positively impacted after the release of the  framework, whilst others were negatively impacted.

Research limitations/implications

As South Africa is acknowledged as a leader in the global  movement, the paper’s observations have global relevance and suggest that the fundamental principles of  should be reconsidered to improve the alignment with stakeholders’ information needs, as originally conceived.

Originality/value

Despite the shareholder orientation of the  framework, the global mining industry is acknowledged as being at the forefront of implementing CSR interventions to mitigate the adverse impacts of their operations on stakeholders, supporting a stakeholder orientation. As the adoption of  continues to gain traction around the world, this paper’s contribution is that it represents one of the few papers to use the global reporting initiative G4 indicators to specifically examine the impact of  framework on the CSR disclosures on the South African mining industry, where both  and CSR reporting are quasi-mandatory disclosure requirements.
Multi-criteria analysis of social isolation barriers amid COVID-19 using fuzzy AHP
Authors: Upadhyay Hemant Kumar , Juneja Sapna , Maggu Sunil , Dhingra Grima , Juneja Abhinav
Published: July 2021

Purpose

The purpose of current analytical work is to identify the critical barriers in social isolation in India amid Coronavirus infection disease (COVID) outbreak using the fuzzy-analytical hierarchical process (AHP) method.

Design/methodology/approach

The conventional AHP is insufficient for tackling the vague nature of linguistic assessment. Fuzzy AHP had been developed to resolve the hierarchical fuzzy problems, avoiding its risks on performance. In AHP, all comparisons are not included; thus, to find the priority of one decision variable over other, triangular fuzzy numbers are used.

Findings

A total of eight critical barriers in social distancing in India during COVID-19 have been compared and ranked. Dense population has emerged as the most culpable barrier in social isolation in India amid COVID outbreak followed by compulsion for pecuniary earning and general incautiousness. A total of eight critical barriers in social distancing in India during COVID-19 in four categories (societal barriers, insufficient facilitation barriers, growth-related barriers and population related barriers) have been compared and ranked.

Originality/value

On the basis of the numeral values, “growth-related barriers” attained top position followed by “population-related barriers” and “insufficient facilitation barriers.” The current work has explored the possible factors which can become key game changers to control the pace of spread of the pandemic.
‘It's not my story to tell’: ownership and the politics of history in Mocímboa da Praia, Mozambique
Authors: Santos Ana Margarida Sousa
Published: July 2021

The recent history of the northernmost districts of Mozambique has been one of movement and conflict leading people far from their areas of origin and into places where they have to rebuild networks and establish relationships. The Makonde moved from their original area in the Mueda Plateau to neighbouring districts and have to negotiate questions of legitimacy and belonging with the autochthonous population, the Mwani, seen as the ‘owners of the land’ and also the rightful bearers of the histories of the area. Recounting history – owning it – is loaded with references to identity, and weaves in memories and competing experiences of the past. Drawing on literature on history and legitimacy and local understandings of ownership, I discuss the importance of memory and storytelling in the maintenance and reshaping of past events and the different narratives that people create. I investigate how the past is appropriated by different groups and defines belonging by claiming or refusing ownership of local histories.
NORMALIZING URBAN ENTREPRENEURIALISM THROUGH SLY DE‐POLITICIZATION: City Centre Development in Gothenburg and Stockholm
Authors: Hertting Nils , Thörn Catharina , Franzén Mats
Published: July 2021

Among a number of proposals regarding ‘late’ forms of urban neoliberalism, it has recently been argued that urban entreprenurialism has become ‘common sense’ or even ‘dull compulsion’. In this article, we contribute to this discussion by exploring the structural conditions and local strategies for normalizing city‐centre‐oriented urban entrepreneurialism in a Swedish context. In doing so, we return to an important but sometimes overlooked aspect of David Harvey's original concept: the delicate act of organizing urban entrepreneurialism across public and private spheres of the local polity. From this perspective, the act of making urban entrepreneurialism normal is far from ‘dull compulsion’. Drawing on longitudinal case studies of two different public‐private partnerships related to city centre development in the two largest Swedish cities, we highlight the active use of sly, or cunning, de‐politicization strategies among local elite actors. Our analysis leads to the more general claim that we should expect similar sly de‐politicization strategies to be necessary for normalizing urban entrepreneurialism in political contexts characterized by relatively strong local authorities, and in relation to spaces and topics of interest to many and diverse actors.
Using Computed Tomography skeletal surveys to evaluate for occult bony injury in suspected non‐accidental injury cases – A preliminary experience
Authors: Lawson Michael , Tully Joanna , Ditchfield Michael , Kuganesan Ahilan , Badawy Mohamed K
Published: July 2021

Introduction

This case series summarises our institution’s preliminary experience of using computed tomography skeletal surveys (CT‐SS) for the assessment of infants with suspected non‐accidental injury (NAI) who were unable to undergo radiographic skeletal surveys (SS). This paper describes our experience using CT‐SS in terms of radiation doses achieved, occult bony injury detection and forensic utility.

Methods

Ten infants aged between two weeks and ten months underwent a CT‐SS. The results of the CT‐SS were compared with concurrent imaging results where available. Radiation doses from imaging procedures were calculated for each patient.

Results

Six infants had abnormalities identified on CT‐SS. Two patients had both an ante‐mortem CT‐SS and post‐mortem imaging. All fractures identified on alternate imaging modalities were visible on at least one CT‐SS reconstruction. The radiation dose associated with CT‐SS imaging ranged from 0.73 to 1.46mSv.

Conclusion

The radiation dose received by the ten infants in this study was greater than the two skeletal survey approach but was less than the dose received during a bone scintigraphy examination, sometimes used to assess for occult bony injury in this setting. While CT‐SS imaging results could not be compared with those obtained with current contemporaneous gold standard imaging techniques, CT‐SS identified all fractures observed on the radiographic images where performed. CT‐SS also identified additional rib fractures in two patients. Our preliminary findings indicate the need for future prospective studies to clarify the ability of CT‐SS to detect metaphyseal fractures reliably.
Improved genome assembly of Chinese shrimp (Fenneropenaeus chinensis) suggests adaptation to the environment during evolution and domestication
Authors: Wang Qiong , Ren Xianyun , Liu Ping , Li Jitao , Lv Jianjian , Wang Jiajia , Zhang Haien , Wei Wei , Zhou Yuxin , He Yuying , Li Jian
Published: July 2021

A high‐quality reference genome is necessary to determine the molecular mechanisms underlying important biological phenomena; therefore, in the present study, a chromosome‐level genome assembly of the Chinese shrimp Fenneropenaeus chinensis was performed. Muscle of a male shrimp was sequenced using PacBio platform, and assembled by Hi‐C technology. The assembled F. chinensis genome was 1.47 Gb with contig N50 of 472.84 Kb, including 57.73% repetitive sequences, and was anchored to 43 pseudochromosomes, with scaffold N50 of 36.87 Mb. In total, 25,026 protein‐coding genes were predicted. The genome size of F. chinensis showed significant contraction in comparison with that of other penaeid species, which is likely related to migration observed in this species. However, the F. chinensis genome included several expanded gene families related to cellular processes and metabolic processes, and the contracted gene families were associated with virus infection process. The findings signify the adaptation of F. chinensis to the selection pressure of migration and cold environment. Furthermore, the selection signature analysis identified genes associated with metabolism, phototransduction, and nervous system in cultured shrimps when compared with wild population, indicating targeted, artificial selection of growth, vision, and behavior during domestication. The construction of the genome of F. chinensis provided valuable information for the further genetic mechanism analysis of important biological processes, and will facilitate the research of genetic changes during evolution.
Clinical characteristics of paraneoplastic neurological syndrome related to different pathological lung cancers
Authors: Ma Jun , Wang Aijun , Jiang Wenjing , Ma Lin , Lin Yan
Published: July 2021

Background

Paraneoplastic syndrome is a distant effect caused by malignant tumors, which is related to the production of cellular immune response. The nervous system is the most common involved system of paraneoplastic syndrome. It is easy to be misdiagnosed. Lung cancer is the most common cancer relating to paraneoplastic neurological syndrome (PNS).

Method

This study retrospectively analyzed clinical data of patients with the combination of PNS and lung cancer between January 2005 and March 2021 at Qilu Hospital of Shandong University, China.

Results

A total of 111 patients were diagnosed with lung cancer complicated with PNS. A total of 95 (85.6%) cases had neurological symptoms as the first symptom. Sixty‐three cases had the pathological results. A total of 43 (68.3%) of small cell lung cancer (SCLC) were diagnosed. PNS patients diagnosed with SCLC included peripheral neuropathy (15 cases, 34.9%). PNS patients diagnosed with non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) included peripheral neuropathy (6 cases, 30%) and limbic encephalitis (6 cases, 30%). Anti‐Hu is popular in patients with SCLC (12 cases, 42.9%) and NSCLC (6 cases, 40%).

Conclusions

Most patients with PNS had neurological symptoms as the first symptom. It was more common in males. It had a higher incidence in SCLC. Peripheral neuropathy was the most common PNS associated with SCLC, followed by Lambert‐Eaton syndrome. Peripheral neuropathy and limbic encephalitis were the most common PNS associated with NSCLC. Anti‐Hu is the most common antibodies both in SCLC and NSCLC. Tumor markers do not have significant difference between different pathological types.
High‐volume hemofiltration reduces short‐term mortality with no influence on the incidence of MODS, hospital stay, and hospitalization cost in patients with severe‐acute pancreatitis: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Huang Hongwei , Zhou Qin , Chen Meng‐hua
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to investigate the efficiency, safety and cost‐efficiency of blood purification (BP) in treating patients with severe‐acute pancreatitis (SAP). A literature search was conducted using PubMed, OVID, International Clinical Trials Register (ICTRP), and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL). A total of 11 prospective studies and 6 retrospective studies, which reported the mortality of 1279 SAP patients, were included for analysis. Decreased short‐term mortality and incidence rate of infection were observed in the high‐volume hemofiltration (HVHF) group, but not in patients treated with other types of BP. There was no significant difference in the incidence of multiple‐organ dysfunction (MODS), duration of hospital stay, or cost of hospitalization between the BP and non‐BP groups. The starting time point, substitution fluid flow rate, filter membrane type, hemofilter change interval, anticoagulation, and sustaining times of BP varied across studies. In conclusion, HVHF may reduce the short‐term mortality (<4 weeks), not long‐term mortality, of SAP patients by decreasing the incidence of infection, while other types of BP did not show a significant beneficial effect. Neither HVHF nor other BP patterns affect the duration of hospital stay, cost of hospitalization, or incidence of MODS in SAP patients.
Populism and foreign policy: The Indonesian case
Authors: Wicaksana I Gede Wahyu , Wardhana Agastya
Published: July 2021

While the rise and political implications of populism in Southeast Asia have received significant academic attention, the impact of populist ideology on foreign policy remains understudied. This article tries to narrow the gap by presenting a case study of Indonesia under the first tenure of President Joko Widodo (Jokowi), 2014–2019. Drawing on the ideational dimensions of populism, which centers on the anti‐elitist characteristic of populist leaders, it proposes three sets of hypotheses. The main expected elements are: an anti‐elitist stance and a perception of the victimization of the people; a perception about threatening outsiders; and a pro‐people style of communication in the conduct of diplomacy. The empirical findings demonstrate that the substance or objective of Jokowi’s foreign policy does not confirm the anti‐elitist and hostile view of foreigners, although longstanding nationalism remains to dominate Indonesia’s foreign policy. Jokowi’s technocratic populism’s intervention is more effective in introducing and altering the processes and forms of diplomacy, suggesting closer linkages between foreign policy and ordinary citizens.
Sample size estimation for cancer randomized trials in the presence of heterogeneous populations
Authors: Dinart Derek , Bellera Carine , Rondeau Virginie
Published: July 2021

A key issue when designing clinical trials is the estimation of the number of subjects required. Assuming for multicenter trials or biomarker‐stratified designs that the effect size between treatment arms is the same among the whole study population might be inappropriate. Limited work is available for properly determining the sample size for such trials. However, we need to account for both, the heterogeneity of the baseline hazards over clusters or strata but also the heterogeneity of the treatment effects, otherwise sample size estimates might be biased. Most existing methods account for either heterogeneous baseline hazards or treatment effects but they dot not allow to simultaneously account for both sources of variations. This article proposes an approach to calculate sample size formula for clustered or stratified survival data relying on frailty models. Both theoretical derivations and simulation results show the proposed approach can guarantee the desired power in worst case scenarios and is often much more efficient than existing approaches. Application to a real clinical trial designs is also illustrated.
BCAS3 exhibits oncogenic properties by promoting CRL4A‐mediated ubiquitination of p53 in breast cancer
Authors: Zhou Zhe , Qiu Rongfang , Liu Wei , Yang Tianshu , Li Gen , Huang Wei , Teng Xu , Yang Yunkai , Yu Hefen , Yang Yang , Wang Yan
Published: July 2021

Objectives

Breast cancer‐amplified sequence 3 (BCAS3) was initially found to be amplified in human breast cancer (BRCA); however, there has been little consensus on the functions of BCAS3 in breast tumours.

Materials and methods

We analysed BCAS3 expression in BRCA using bio‐information tools. Affinity purification and mass spectrometry were employed to identify BCAS3‐associated proteins. GST pull‐down and ubiquitination assays were performed to analyse the interaction mechanism between BCAS3/p53 and CUL4A‐RING E3 ubiquitin ligase (CRL4A) complex. BCAS3 was knocked down individually or in combination with p53 in MCF‐7 cells to further explore the biological functions of the BCAS3/p53 axis. The clinical values of BCAS3 for BRCA progression were evaluated via semiquantitative immunohistochemistry (IHC) analysis and Cox regression.

Results

We reported that the expression level of BCAS3 in BRCA was higher than that in adjacent normal tissues. High BCAS3 expression promoted growth, inhibited apoptosis and conferred chemoresistance in breast cancer cells. Mechanistically, BCAS3 overexpression fostered BRCA cell growth by interacting with the CRL4A complex and promoting ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of p53. Furthermore, BCAS3 could regulate cell growth, apoptosis and chemoresistance through a p53‐mediated mechanism. Clinically, BCAS3 overexpression was significantly correlated with a malignant phenotype. Moreover, higher expression of BCAS3 correlates with shorter overall survival (OS) in BRCA.

Conclusions

The functional characterization of BCAS3 offers new insights into the oncogenic properties and chemotherapy resistance in breast cancer.
Ethical considerations regarding COVID‐19 vaccination for transplant candidates and recipients
Authors: Parent Brendan , Caplan Arthur , Mehta Sapna A.
Published: July 2021

Solid organ transplant (SOT) candidates and recipients were not included in the COVID‐19 vaccine trials that have justified vaccine administration to millions worldwide and will be critical to ending the pandemic. The risks of COVID‐19 for SOT candidates and recipients combined with data about this population's response to other vaccines has led to transplant centers recommending vaccination for their candidates and recipients in accordance with guidance from major transplant organizations. Relevant ethics considerations include: weighing the low risk of vaccination causing transplant complications against potentially limited antibody response of vaccines for transplant recipients; the equitable distribution of vaccines among vulnerable populations; the duty to steward and respect organs as limited resources; the duty to support vaccination; and patient autonomy. Vaccinated transplant patients and candidates should also consider participating in research studies to better understand the efficacy and potential long‐term risks in this patient population. There are difficult scenarios, like timing transplant after second vaccine dose, when to administer the second dose to a partially vaccinated candidate who gets an organ match, whether to vaccinate a recent transplant recipient with low exposure risk and which vaccine to use. Here we provide ethics considerations for vaccinating different groups within the transplant population.
A guideline for the outpatient management of glycaemic control in people with cancer
Authors: Joharatnam‐Hogan Nalinie , Chambers Pinkie , Dhatariya Ketan , Board Ruth ,   the Joint British Diabetes Society for Inpatient Care (JBDS), UK Chemotherapy Board (UKCB)
Published: July 2021

Individuals with cancer are at increased risk of developing new‐onset diabetes mellitus and hyperglycaemia, and an estimated 20% of people with cancer already have an underlying diagnosis of diabetes mellitus. People with both cancer and diabetes may have an increased risk of toxicities, hospital admissions and morbidity, with hyperglycaemia potentially attenuating the efficacy of chemotherapy often secondary to dose reductions and early cessation. Numerous studies have demonstrated that hyperglycaemia is prognostic of worse overall survival and risk of cancer recurrence. These guidelines aim to provide the oncology/haemato‐oncology and diabetes multidisciplinary teams with the tools to manage people with diabetes commencing anti‐cancer/glucocorticoid therapy, as well as identifying individuals without a known diagnosis of diabetes who are at risk of developing hyperglycaemia and new‐onset diabetes.
Thermomechanical analysis of riveted carbon fiber laminates for aerospace applications
Authors: Scarselli Gennaro , Carrino Stefano , Nobile Riccardo
Published: July 2021

Experimental fatigue tests performed on riveted carbon fiber laminates showed that the specimens, after some thousands of cycles, heated up, reaching around the rivet holes high temperatures. These temperatures if not properly controlled could be detrimental for the joint health. In order to understand the relative importance of all the mechanical and geometric parameters involved in the joint manufacturing, a numerical model of the joined carbon fiber laminates was developed using a commercial finite elements code. A simplified analytical model of heat transfer was then used to simulate the rivets thermal behavior under the assigned operating conditions: this model allowed comparisons with finite elements and can be used for simple thermal simulations. The numerical and analytical results were found in a good agreement with the available experimental results. The present research conclusions can be used for drawing better design rules in the definition of riveted carbon fiber laminates.
Effectiveness of fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing and dietary intervention during home‐visit dental care in older individuals
Authors: Tajitsu Megumi , Ishihata Kiyohide , Tezuka Masahiro , Yoshimura Takuya , Ichiki Misaki , Ohta Hiromi , Nohara Kanji , Nakamura Norifumi
Published: July 2021

Background

Currently, patients with dysphagia are receiving dietary management that deviates from their original swallowing function.

Objective

To evaluate the clinical significance of fibreoptic endoscopic evaluation of swallowing (FEES) and dietary intervention (DI) by multi‐professional collaboration during visit care for determining the actual oral intake status in patients with dysphagia.

Methods

Five hundred and eighteen patients with dysphagia underwent FEES, focusing on the penetration‐aspiration scale, and DI. Oral intake status was categorised using the functional oral intake scale (FOIS). FOIS scores at the first visit, after FEES, and at the reassessment were compared.

Results

At the first visit, 34.7% of the patients had an FOIS score of level 1 (no oral intake) and 65.3% had a score of level 2 or higher (capable of oral intake). Following FEES, 7.1% of patients had an FOIS score of level 1, and 44.4% had a score of level 2 with resumption of oral intake. At the reassessment, 489 patients (94.4%) were capable of oral ingestion (FOIS level 2 or higher). There were significant differences between the distributions of FOIS scores at the first visit and following FEES (P < .01) and between those at the first visit and at the reassessment (P < .01). Regarding tube feeding, 17 (5.9%) of 289 patients, who had received tube feeding at the first visit, were completely capable of oral intake following FEES and at the reassessment.

Conclusion

Appropriate evaluation of swallowing function using FEES and DI helps to understand the definite swallowing function in patients with dysphagia.
Dermatology inpatient consultations in a tertiary hospital – a retrospective analysis
Authors: Joseph Joseph , Truong Kelvin , Smith Annika , Fernandez‐Penas Pablo
Published: July 2021

Background

Dermatology consultation has been shown to have a significant beneficial impact on admitted hospital patients with concurrent or newly diagnosed skin conditions. This study aimed to determine the change in diagnosis and management after dermatology consultation in a tertiary Australian referral hospital.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of dermatology consultations for hospital inpatients from June 1, 2018, through November 11, 2019, was performed. Demographic and clinical data were extracted from electronic medical records, and a chi‐squared test was used to analyze categorical variables.

Results

There were 306 consultations during the period of interest. The male to female ratio was 1:1 with a median age of 63. Consultations were most often requested by medical teams (69%), and the majority of patients seen in the emergency department were discharged home (86%). In 44% of cases, the requesting team did not provide a diagnosis; in the cases where it did provide a diagnosis, it was changed 57.9% of the time. The most commonly misdiagnosed conditions were dermatitis and skin infections. Dermatologists established or changed management in 82% of cases, and a total of 676 suggestions were made for management.

Conclusion

The results of this review reinforce the value of dermatology input in the diagnosis and management of hospital in patients. Ensuring maintained presence of hospital‐based dermatologists has the potential to improve diagnosis and management of cutaneous issues early on; by extension, this can minimize unnecessary investigations, improve the quality of healthcare, reduce hospital burden, and facilitate outpatient follow‐up.
Review of chemotherapy‐associated paronychia
Authors: Gupta Mohit K. , Lipner Shari R.
Published: July 2021

Chemotherapy‐associated paronychia (CAP) is an inflammation of the nail folds in response to various chemotherapeutic medications. Altered proliferation of keratinocytes or nail matrix stem cells is thought to be a major causative factor. Prophylactic tetracyclines, topical povidone‐iodine, and general irritation avoidance measures are among some of the recommended interventions for CAP. Appropriate recognition and treatment of CAP are important for prevention of chemotherapy dose reduction or medication discontinuation.
Effects of bacterial cellulose on glucose metabolism in an in vitro chyme model and its rheological evaluation
Authors: Zhang Le‐Le , Zhang Wen , Peng Fa‐Bo , Chen He , Shu Guo‐Wei
Published: July 2021

Hyperglycaemia affects the health of people worldwide. The study investigated the effects of bacterial cellulose (BC) on glucose metabolism using an in vitro chyme model, including glucose adsorption, glucose diffusion, kinetics model of glucose and rheological properties of BC. The results indicated that BC exhibited significant inhibition of α‐amylase in a dose‐dependent manner (IC50 = 7.86 mg mL−1) and could significantly adsorb glucose by binding to the glucose molecules (4.11 ± 0.18 mmol g−1) (P < 0.05). The BC chyme system was a non‐Newtonian fluid showing shear thinning and has the characteristics of elastic solid. The diffusion behaviour of glucose in the BC chyme system conformed to first‐order release kinetics model, indicating its inhibition of glucose diffusion by changing the rheological properties of chyme. This study provides a theoretical basis for dietary intervention and nutritional support for patients with hyperglycaemia.
Characterisation of antioxidant peptides from enzymatic hydrolysate of golden melon seeds protein
Authors: Chen Lihua , Li Dongna , Zhu Chuchu , Rong Yuzhi , Zeng Wenhua
Published: July 2021

The purpose of present research was to study novel antioxidant peptides from Golden melon seeds. Alkaline protease was used to hydrolyse the Golden melon seeds protein to obtain the hydrolysed peptides. These antioxidant peptides were purified and identified by ultrafiltration, gel filtration chromatography and RP‐HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS. Results showed that the peptide fraction (GMSHp3) with molecular weight (MW) <3 kDa obtained by ultrafiltration had the highest antioxidant capacity. This fraction was further purified via gel filtration chromatography into six sub‐fractions, among which GMSHp3‐3 exhibited the highest hydroxyl radical scavenging effect. Fraction GMSHp3‐3 was further purified via RP‐HPLC‐ESI‐MS/MS and sequenced as six potential antioxidant peptides with amino acids sequences of RMSFPVMCRN, LMRVLAQLG, ALAPLVALPAA, LVGKPAPD, LPAAHKA and AHAAGYGG, among which LMRVLAQLG, LPAAHKA and AHAAGYGG possessed effective ferric reducing power. These results indicated that novel antioxidant peptides from golden melon seeds protein hydrolysates might be potential antioxidant source of functional foods or nutraceutical supplements.
Consumer acceptability and antidiabetic properties of flakes and crackers developed from selected native Australian plant species
Authors: Njume Collise , Donkor Osaana N. , Vasiljevic Todor , McAinch Andrew J.
Published: July 2021

Type 2 diabetes, linked to an unhealthy diet, is increasing in Australia. This study aimed to evaluate the acceptability of potential antidiabetic food preventatives followed by phyto‐component detection by high‐performance liquid chromatography analysis and glycaemic index (GI) estimation by in vitro enzymatic hydrolysis. Five flakes and a cracker were developed from Acacia longifolia seeds, Typha orientalis rhizomes and Rhagodia candolleana berries. Samples were tested for consumer acceptability against a commercially available flake and cracker (as controls) by 44 participants using a 9‐point hedonic scale. Overall acceptability of 86.4% and 54.5%–65.9% was recorded against control and test flakes, while control and test crackers recorded 84.1% and 70.5%, respectively. The test cracker contained gallic acid (GA) and ρ‐coumaric acid (PCA) with GI, 47.7 ± 1.3, whereas control cracker contained GA and had GI, 70.3 ± 2.5. These results indicate that the test cracker may have potential as an antidiabetic food preventative.
Calcium silicate hydrate—in‐situdevelopment of the silicate structure followed by infrared spectroscopy
Authors: John Elisabeth , Stephan Dietmar
Published: July 2021

In the current study, the development of the silicate structure of synthetic calcium silicate hydrates with different calcium contents was followed byin‐situinfrared (IR) spectroscopy and correlated to thein‐situphase development evaluated by X‐ray diffraction (XRD). A baseline correction method initially developed for X‐ray diffractograms was successfully adapted for the complex background of the fingerprint region inin‐situIR, which significantly contributed to signal quality and reproducibility. The development of separate silicate infrared bands could be monitored over 24 h of reaction. These bands could be assigned to oligomeric and dimeric species based on their time and stoichiometry‐dependent development. It was clearly shown that the main peak of the dimeric silicate species was overlooked in the literature. The correlation of time‐dependent events toin‐situXRD revealed that changes in the unit cell of calcium silicate hydrate are related to silicate polymerization. The results were compared to29Si‐MAS‐NMR, which highlighted the benefits ofin‐situIR spectroscopy.
Marital relationships spillover and parental differential treatment of siblings: A multilevel meta‐analysis
Authors: Jensen Alexander C. , Jorgensen‐Wells Mc Kell A. , Pickett Janna M. , Andrus Lauren E. , Leiter Virginia K. , Graver Haley , Pollard Brittany M. , Kroff Savannah L. , Russo Raechel B. , Hanna‐Walker Veronica R.
Published: July 2021

Founded in family systems theory, the spillover hypothesis suggests that marital relationships are linked to parenting. The current study used meta‐analysis to extend this literature and examine links between marital positivity and marital negativity with absolute levels of parental differential treatment (PDT) of siblings. Multilevel data included 2575 effect sizes nested within 45 sources (articles/raw datasets), nested within 12 unique samples. Lower marital positivity and greater marital negativity were linked to greater differences in treatment. Those main effects, however, were moderated by several source and effect size characteristics. For example, links were stronger when effect sizes were based on differential positive interactions. Caution is warranted in most cases; effect sizes were generally small. Findings, however, suggest that parents should be aware of how they may treat their children differently in connection with poorer marital relationships. Future research on PDT should include a greater focus on the domains of differential treatment.
The effectiveness of physical exercise type and length to prevent falls in nursing homes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Fang , Tian Bailing
Published: July 2021

Objective

The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analysis was to determine the effect of physical exercise on fall prevention and the characteristics required for effective exercise.

Design

Systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials.

Method

Six databases (PubMed, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Excerpta Medica Database, SinoMed and China National Knowledge Infrastructure) were searched to find the relevant randomised controlled trials published before January 2021. The study was reported in compliance with PRISMA statement. The included studies were assessed for quality using the Cochrane “Risk of Bias” assessment tool, and the data were analysed with review manager.

Results

Overall, fourteen studies were included. Compared physical exercise with normal daily life, the pooled effect size of all trials indicated that intervention had significant effect on fall prevention (RR = 0.85, 95% CI = 0.73–0.98). The result of subgroup revealed that long‐term exercise and balance exercise could reduce falling, while short‐term exercise and more complex exercise couldn't.

Conclusions

Exercise may be effective in reducing falls, and long‐term balance exercise played a role in preventing falls in nursing homes.
Outcomes and potential surrogate markers for future clinical trials of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis
Authors: Rivera‐Esteban Jesús , Armandi Angelo , Augustin Salvador , Bugianesi Elisabetta
Published: July 2021

Non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis has emerged as a major public health problem, and the burden of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis is projected to increase by 64%‐156% by 2030. The threat is aggravated by the fact that are currently no approved drugs for the treatment of non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis. In this paper, we review the main challenges to drug development in patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis, and describe the opportunities brought by the advances in the understanding of the clinical and pathophysiological nuances of cirrhosis. The design of therapeutic regimens for non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis will vary according to the specific cirrhosis substage (compensated vs decompensated), and the specific mechanistic basis of therapy, targeted either at improving aetiology‐specific pathways and/or at more general aetiology‐agnostic processes. The understanding of the probabilistic expectations for the whole range of potential outcomes, rooted at different mechanistic drivers at each specific substage, will be essential in order to choose adequate estimands and therapeutic strategies for clinical trials and individual patients with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis. Finally, we provide a summary of the main pitfalls and uncertainties in the design of clinical trials for non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis cirrhosis and discuss potential biomarkers for use in trials and practice for these patients.
Pulsatility protects the endothelial glycocalyx during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Zhang Yu , Zeng Jianfeng , He Xiaoqian , Cao Weidong , Peng Xiaopeng , Li Guanhua
Published: July 2021

Background

Pulsatile flow protects vital organ function and improves microcirculatory perfusion during extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO). Studies revealed that pulsatile shear stress plays a vital role in microcirculatory function and integrity. The objective of this study was to investigate how pulsatility affects wall shear stress and endothelial glycocalyx components during ECMO.

Methods

Using the i‐Cor system, sixteen canine ECMO models were randomly allocated into the pulsatile or the non‐pulsatile group (eight canines for each). Hemodynamic parameters, peak wall shear stress (PWSS), serum concentration of syndecan‐1, and heparan sulfate were measured at different time points during ECMO. Pulsatile shear stress experiments were also performed in endothelial cells exposed to different magnitudes of pulsatility (five plates for each condition), with cell viability, the expressions of syndecan‐1, and endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transformation (EndMT) markers analyzed.

Results

The pulsatile flow generated more surplus hemodynamic energy and preserved higher PWSS during ECMO. Serum concentrations of both syndecan‐1 and heparan sulfate were negatively correlated with PWSS, and significantly lower levels were observed in the pulsatile group. Besides, non‐pulsatility triggered EndMT and endothelial cells exposed to low pulsatility had the lowest possibility of EndMT.

Conclusion

The maintenance of the PWSS by pulsatility during ECMO possesses beneficial effects on glycocalyx integrity. Moreover, pulsatility prevents EndMT in endothelial cells, and low pulsatility exhibits the best protective effects. The augmentation of pulsatility may be a plausible future direction to improve the clinical outcome in ECMO.
His bundle lead implantation for leadless pacemaker pacing‐induced cardiomyopathy in persistent left superior vena cava
Authors: Anderson John , Berenbom Loren D. , Noheria Amit
Published: July 2021

Persistent left superior vena cava (PLSVC) poses technical challenges to implantation of transvenous cardiac implantable electronic devices. His‐bundle pacing is a physiologic pacing strategy to avoid or treat pacing‐induced cardiomyopathy. We report a case of His‐bundle lead implantation in a patient with PLSVC, absent right SVC, and pacing‐induced cardiomyopathy.
Childhood food allergy and food allergen sensitisation are associated with adult airways disease: A birth cohort study
Authors: Fong Wei Chern Gavin , Chan Adrian , Zhang Hongmei , Holloway John W. , Roberts Graham , Kurukulaaratchy Ramesh , Arshad Syed Hasan
Published: July 2021

Background

Childhood food allergy (FA) and food allergen sensitization (FAS) are associated with allergic airway disease(s) [AAD] (asthma and rhinitis) in childhood. However, the associations between childhood FA/FAS and AAD in adulthood are not well described.

Methods

We investigated the longitudinal relationship between childhood FA/FAS to common food allergens and AAD at 18 and 26 years, in the Isle of Wight birth cohort. Study subjects (N = 1456) were followed up at fixed time points from ages 1–26 years for FA/FAS status. AAD were evaluated from 4 years onwards. The associations between FA/FAS and AAD were assessed with univariate analyses and then multivariable logistic regression, adjusting for clinically relevant co‐variates.

Results

Food allergy at 4 years was significantly associated with asthma at 18 years [adjusted odds ratio (aOR): 2.75, 95% CI: 1.53–4.92, p = .001] and 26 years (aOR: 2.62, 95% CI: 1.32–5.20, p = .006). Conversely, childhood FA was not associated with adulthood rhinitis whatsoever. While FAS at ages 4 and 10 were associated with both AAD, the associations between FAS and rhinitis were less robust relative to asthma.

Conclusion

Childhood FA increased the odds of asthma during adulthood by nearly threefold. Additionally, childhood FAS was also associated with increased odds of asthma in adulthood. Conversely, FAS but not FA in childhood was associated with rhinitis in adulthood. We suggest that children with FA/FAS should be followed up to facilitate early detection and intervention of subsequent AAD, particularly asthma.
Gender wage gap in small islands: Effect of a policy framework in Mauritius
Authors: Brizmohun Roshini , Alessandrini Diana , Hartarska Valentina
Published: July 2021

Mauritius is classified as a high‐income small island country. However, gender inequalities are still prevalent and therefore need to be addressed. This paper analyses the attempts made by the country to improve gender parity through the adoption of a national gender policy framework (NGPF) in 2008, using difference‐in‐differences with pooled cross‐sectional data from Household Budget Surveys 2007, 2012 and 2017. The results indicate that no significant gender wage gap changes occurred in 2012 after controlling for human capital, industry, and occupation. On a longer run, the interaction of the gender and year variable was significant in 2017 only when controlling for industry and occupation. This study shows that the NGPF can help women climb the economic ladder within their occupation but does not help them increase their occupational prestige by moving to a higher‐paying occupation. More focused policies with clear action plans, for instance, those that will promote the inclusion of women in high‐level positions, will reduce the gender wage gap. Encouraging women to participate in the knowledge‐based, high‐income economy of Mauritius by overcoming the skills mismatch that pervades in sectors with fastest growth is a potential strategy for improving gender wage parity.
Estudio fenomenológico sobre las disposiciones docentes en la relación pedagógica
Authors: Martín-Alonso Diego , Blanco-García Nieves , Sierra-Nieto José Eduardo
Published: July 2021

Partiendo del marco de la fenomenología vanmaniana, el propósito de este trabajo es profundizar y tratar de captar la esencia de las disposiciones docentes puestas en juego en la construcción de la relación pedagógica. En consecuencia, abordamos el estudio desde un enfoque fenomenológico. A través de relatos anecdóticos vividos con una maestra de educación primaria realizamos un análisis exegético en torno a los tres temas que, en línea con trabajos previos, hemos encontrado: cuidado, responsabilidad y esperanza. Las conclusiones apuntan a estos tres focos como las disposiciones que sustentan el gesto que inicia la relación pedagógica.
“A mala não é dela”: saber das crianças em contexto escolar de fronteira
Authors: Machado e Silva Regina Coeli
Published: July 2021

O objetivo deste artigo é apresentar um saber comum das crianças sobre um modo de vida de trabalho de adultos, visível em uma escola fundamental em Foz do Iguaçu, Brasil, na fronteira com o Paraguai. Na introdução, circunscrevo o contexto da etnografia por meio de considerações téorico-metodológicas. Apresento, primeiro, a paradoxal presentificação da fronteira do Estado-Nação brasileiro na experiência escolar; segundo, a gramática moral do trabalho ilegal visto como legítimo; e, terceiro, exponho o saber das crianças da escola a respeito desse trabalho, explicitado por elas diante das cenas de um curta metragem exibido na sala de aula.
A Rapid Review of Communication Strategies for Physical Activity Guidelines and Physical Activity Promotion: A Review of Worldwide Strategies
Authors: Budzynski-Seymour Emily , Milton Karen , Mills Hayley , Wade Matthew , Foster Charles , Vishnubala Dane , Baxter Beelin , Williamson Chloë , Steele James
Published: July 2021

Background: To support the strategy development for communication of the updated physical activity (PA) guidelines, the UK Chief Medical Officers’ Expert Panel for Communication was created. Methods: To help inform this process, a rapid review was performed to identify and describe how other nations are communicating their PA guidelines and PA generally. Elements of the health-enhancing physical activity policy audit tool created by the World Health Organization were used to investigate all 195 countries. Results: Seventy-seven countries had their own guidelines; 53 used the World Health Organization guidelines, and for 65 countries, no guidelines could be found. For the communication, 27 countries used infographics; 56 had government policies/documents, and 11 used a mass media campaign. Only 6 of these had been evaluated. Although many countries used infographics, there were no associated evaluations. As such, any future communication strategies should incorporate an evaluation. Mass media campaigns had the strongest evidence base, proving to be an effective strategy, particularly when incorporating aspects of social marketing. Conclusion: This review provides an insight into strategies countries worldwide have taken to communicate PA guidelines and PA promotion. These should be carefully considered when deciding how best to communicate and promote PA guidelines.
Role of warm subduction in the seismological properties of the forearc mantle: An example from southwest Japan
Authors: Lee Changyeol , Kim YoungHee
Published: July 2021

Numerical models show a growth of serpentinite layer toward mantle wedge corner, explaining seismic observations in SW Japan.
Loss of UCHL1 rescues the defects related to Parkinson’s disease by suppressing glycolysis
Authors: Ham Su Jin , Lee Daewon , Xu Wen Jun , Cho Eunjoo , Choi Sekyu , Min Soohong , Park Sunghyouk , Chung Jongkyeong
Published: July 2021

Loss of UCHL1 activates an energy-dependent mitophagy via pyruvate kinase, which relieves Parkinson’s disease symptoms.
Global homogenization of the structure and function in the soil microbiome of urban greenspaces
Authors: Delgado-Baquerizo Manuel , Eldridge David J. , Liu Yu-Rong , Sokoya Blessing , Wang Jun-Tao , Hu Hang-Wei , He Ji-Zheng , Bastida Felipe , Moreno José L. , Bamigboye Adebola R. , Blanco-Pastor José L. , Cano-Díaz Concha , Illán Javier G. , Makhalanyane Thulani P. , Siebe Christina , Trivedi Pankaj , Zaady Eli , Verma Jay Prakash , Wang Ling , Wang Jianyong , Grebenc Tine , Peñaloza-Bojacá Gabriel F. , Nahberger Tina U. , Teixido Alberto L. , Zhou Xin-Quan , Berdugo Miguel , Duran Jorge , Rodríguez Alexandra , Zhou Xiaobing , Alfaro Fernando , Abades Sebastian , Plaza Cesar , Rey Ana , Singh Brajesh K. , Tedersoo Leho , Fierer Noah
Published: July 2021

This study provides new insights into how the soil microbiome of urban greenspaces differs from surrounding natural ecosystems.
The fluid shear stress sensor TRPM7 regulates tumor cell intravasation
Authors: Yankaskas Christopher L. , Bera Kaustav , Stoletov Konstantin , Serra Selma A. , Carrillo-Garcia Julia , Tuntithavornwat Soontorn , Mistriotis Panagiotis , Lewis John D. , Valverde Miguel A. , Konstantopoulos Konstantinos
Published: July 2021

Fluid shear sensing via TRPM7 limits tumor cell intravasation by activating RhoA/myosin and calmodulin/IQGAP1/Cdc42 pathways.
Hierarchical-morphology metafabric for scalable passive daytime radiative cooling
Authors: Zeng Shaoning , Pian Sijie , Su Minyu , Wang Zhuning , Wu Maoqi , Liu Xinhang , Chen Mingyue , Xiang Yuanzhuo , Wu Jiawei , Zhang Manni , Cen Qingqing , Tang Yuwei , Zhou Xianheng , Huang Zhiheng , Wang Rui , Tunuhe Alitenai , Sun Xiyu , Xia Zhigang , Tian Mingwei , Chen Min , Ma Xiao , Yang Lvyun , Zhou Jun , Zhou Huamin , Yang Qing , Li Xin , Ma Yaoguang , Tao Guangming
Published: July 2021

A durable way to keep cool

The fibers that make up textiles can be augmented to change how they interact with thermal radiation, but the resulting materials often are not durable. Zeng
et al
. developed a multilayer metafabric composed of a titanium oxide polylactic acid composite laminated with a polytetrafluoroethylene layer. This combination creates a textile that has passive radiative cooling properties with good mechanical properties and scalability. The textile can be made into clothes or car covers and keeps a person or a car much cooler than other fabrics. —BG