bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dynamic structural and microstructural responses of a metal–organic framework type material to carbon dioxide under dual gas flow and supercritical conditions
Authors: Allen Andrew J. , Cockayne Eric , Wong-Ng Winnie , Culp Jeffrey T. , Kuzmenko Ivan
Published: January 2023

The structural and microstructural responses of a model metal–organic framework material, Ni(3-methyl-4,4′-bipyridine)[Ni(CN)4] (Ni-BpyMe or PICNIC-21), to CO2 adsorption and desorption are reported for in situ small-angle X-ray scattering and X-ray diffraction measurements under different gas pressure conditions for two technologically important cases. These conditions are single or dual gas flow (CO2 with N2, CH4 or H2 at sub-critical CO2 partial pressures and ambient temperatures) and supercritical CO2 (with static pressures and temperatures adjusted to explore the gas, liquid and supercritical fluid regimes on the CO2 phase diagram). The experimental results are compared with density functional theory calculations that seek to predict where CO2 and other gas molecules are accommodated within the sorbent structure as a function of gas pressure conditions, and hence the degree of swelling and contraction in the associated structure spacings and void spaces. These predictions illustrate the insights that can be gained concerning how such sorbents can be designed or modified to optimize the desired gas sorption properties relevant to enhanced gas recovery or to addressing carbon dioxide reduction through carbon mitigation, or even direct air capture of CO2.
Adoption of cryptocurrencies for remittances in the UAE: the mediation effect of consumer innovation
Authors: Jegerson Devid , Khan Mehmood , Mertzanis Charilaos
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study investigated the internal factors that influence the adoption of cryptocurrencies for remittance transactions in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) by examining the relationships between behavioural intention (BI) and perceived risk (PR), as well as the mediating effect of consumer innovation (CI).

Design/methodology/approach

The authors developed a structural model using scales from the literature. The authors distributed an online questionnaire, evaluated by five cryptocurrency experts, using a snowball approach and collected 270 responses.

Findings

The results revealed that CI mediates the relationship between PR and BI. Also, CI enhances intentions to use cryptocurrencies for remittance transactions. However, PR has a negative impact on BI.

Research limitations/implications

This research adds to the body of knowledge by examining the acceptance and implementation of cryptocurrencies in the UAE and by developing and evaluating new constructs based on current notions. The study also contributes to the current understanding of cryptocurrencies and blockchain adoption. This article focusses on the mediating impact of CI on intentions to employ cryptocurrency instruments for international money transfers.

Practical implications

The conclusions of the research give advice for marketers on how to boost the commercialisation of cryptocurrencies in the UAE remittance market and may pave the way for other studies to assist impending developments in the UAE cryptocurrency industry.

Originality/value

This research offers novel insights into CI as a significant predictor of bitcoin product uptake in the remittance business.
Effect of a student teaching internship program on the self-efficacy of pre-service teachers in rural China
Authors: Cheung Alan Chi Keung , Wong Koon Lin , Wang Hong Fang , Dai Jian Bing
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of the present study was to examine the impact of a student teaching internship program on the self-efficacy of pre-service teachers in China.

Design/methodology/approach

With 1,367 participants, structural equation modelling was used to evaluate the fit of the hypothetical model and a latent path analysis was conducted to identify the relationship among various variables.

Findings

The results suggested that the program had a significant impact on efficacy in terms of personal skills, general teaching skills and personal qualities of the student interns concerned. Although this study was set in rural China, the findings of this study offered insights for teacher education in other places.

Originality/value

To the best of our knowledge, no research studies have been conducted on this in-service teacher training program in a systematic and comprehensive way using a large sample size and involving all major stakeholders. The aim of the present study is to fill this gap, by exploring the experience of a large cohort of pre-service teachers participating in this student teaching internship program. Studying the experiences of these student teachers will illuminate some of the key challenges faced and how they impacted their teaching and learning during their teaching practices in rural areas. The findings may help teacher education institutions to review and enhance their existing approaches to teaching practices and professional development initiatives not only in rural China but in similar contexts in other countries.
How can CSR in demarketing trigger brand advocacy and mindful consumption? Mediating roles of perceived corporate hypocrisy and brand credibility
Authors: Pham Hoa , Dang Huu Phuc , Nguyen-Viet Bang
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The call for consumption reduction behavior has been getting more attention from scholars and practitioners. However, the consumption reduction often receives backfire from consumers because it does not follow the business philosophy of demand creation. Thus, this research dissolves this issue by using a holistic corporate social responsibility (CSR) approach regarding sustainable development.

Design/methodology/approach

A conceptual model was developed to represent the proposed relationships among the related variables. The current study employed an online survey to collect data from 341 international program students of three prominent universities in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam.

Findings

The findings indicate that the perception of the holistic CSR negatively impacts perceived corporate hypocrisy, triggering in turn brand credibility, resulting in brand advocacy and mindful consumption behavior.

Originality/value

This research forms a holistic CSR including economic, environmental and societal dimensions and proposes that the holistic CSR triggers brand advocacy and mindful consumption behavior representing consumption reduction behavior via the mediating roles of perceived corporate hypocrisy and brand credibility. These findings contribute to theoretical and managerial implications in CSR practices with the aim of consumption reduction.
The role of HEXACO in the development of authentic leadership and its consequences on task performance
Authors: Malik Muhammad Faisal , Burhan Qurat-ul-Ain , Khan Muhammad Asif
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The objectives of the current study were to identify the antecedents and outcomes of authentic leadership. For antecedents, the research considered the HEXACO (Honesty-Humility, Emotionality, eXtraversion, Agreeableness, Conscientiousness, Openness to Experience) personality model and thereby identified the impact of authentic leadership on employee performance with the mediating role of psychological safety and employee engagement by using the trait theory.

Design/methodology/approach

The current study adopted a positivism research philosophy followed by a deductive approach. Overall, 347 samples were collected from the public sector organizations using quantitative research techniques, and data were gathered through a self-administrated questionnaire. Exploratory and confirmatory factor analyses were used through structural equation modeling (SEM)-Mplus to generate the results and test the formulated hypotheses.

Findings

The results revealed that honesty-humility significantly impacts authentic leadership (β = 0.094 and p < 0.05). Similarly, other dimensions of HEXACO also play a significant role in forming authentic leadership. After analyzing the HEXACO as the antecedent of authentic leadership, sequential mediation of psychological safety and employee engagement was checked and identified that authentic leadership in the presence of mediators was insignificant. Hence the full mediation has been recorded.

Originality/value

Since its inception, a plethora of research has been available on the authentic leadership theory. However, the empirical evidence revealed that most research is related to outcomes of authentic leadership. As far as antecedents of authentic leadership are concerned, the literature is still silent, specifically on the development of authentic leaders. The current study is significantly contributing to the theory of authentic leadership, and in this context, the study is unique since it is taking the HEXACO personality model as an antecedent of authentic leadership to investigate its role in the development of authentic leaders. Moreover, the study is also identified as the impact of authentic leadership on task performance, not in isolation, but by taking psychological safety and employee engagement as a mediating mechanism.
CVD processed ZnO thin film as solid thermal interface material in electronic devices: thermal and optical performance of LED
Authors: Subramani Shanmugan , Devarajan Mutharasu
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Polymer-based thermal interface materials (TIMs) are having pump out problem and could be resolved for reliable application. Solid-based interface materials have been suggested and reported. The purpose of this paper is suggesting thin film-based TIM to sustain the light-emiting diode (LED) performance and electronic device miniaturization.

Design/methodology/approach

Consequently, ZnO thin film at various thicknesses was prepared by chemical vapour deposition (CVD) method and tested their thermal behaviour using thermal transient analysis as solid TIM for high-power LED.

Findings

Low value in total thermal resistance (Rth-tot) was observed for ZnO thin film boundary condition than bare Al boundary condition. The measured interface (ZnO thin film) resistance {(Rth-bhs) thermal resistance of the interface layer (thin film) placed between metal core printed circuit board (MCPCB) board and Al substrates} was nearly equal to Ag paste boundary condition and showed low values for ZnO film prepared at 30 min process time measured at 700 mA. The TJ value of LED mounted on ZnO thin film (prepared at 30 min.) coated Al substrates was measured to be 74.8°C. High value in junction temperature difference (ΔTJ) of about 4.7°C was noticed with 30 min processed ZnO thin film when compared with Al boundary condition. Low correlated colour temperature and high luminous flux values of tested LED were also observed with ZnO thin film boundary condition (processed at 30 min) compared with both Al substrate and Ag paste boundary condition.

Originality/value

Overall, 30 min CVD processed ZnO thin film would be an alternative for commercial TIM to achieve efficient thermal management. This will increase the life span of the LED as the proposed material decreases the TJ values.
“The Country Christ Knew”: New Zealanders' Interactions with Christianity in the Middle East, Greece, and Italy during the Second World War
Authors: King Josh
Published: January 2023

During the Second World War, New Zealanders of the Second New Zealand Expeditionary Force (2NZEF) interacted with Christianity throughout the Mediterranean from 1940 to 1945. Stationed in the Middle East, New Zealanders saw the birthplace of Christianity in Egypt and Palestine. In Greece, Crete, and Italy, New Zealanders saw countries where Christianity was deeply ingrained in the landscape and social fabric. This article explores New Zealanders' interaction with Christianity in the Mediterranean during the Second World War on two levels: Firstly, by discussing New Zealanders' visits to Christian religious sites; secondly, by examining New Zealanders' observations on religious practice and the place of religion in society in the Middle East, Greece, and Italy. The article will argue that New Zealanders demonstrated a keen interest in religious tourism during the war, and more broadly, that Christianity was an important lens through which New Zealanders viewed the places in which they served in the Mediterranean.
Body impedance analysis to estimate malnutrition in inflammatory bowel disease patients – A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Reiner Johannes , Koch Kristina , Woitalla Julia , Huth Astrid , Bannert Karen , Sautter Lea , Jaster Robert , Witte Maria , Lamprecht Georg , Schäffler Holger
Published: January 2023

Objective

Malnutrition is a common clinical problem in patients with inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). However, a gold standard for the detection of malnutrition in IBD patients is lacking.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study to assess malnutrition in patients with IBD and healthy controls (HCs). Clinical characteristics (Montreal classification, disease activity, previous surgery) and mutations in the NOD2 gene in patients with Crohn's disease (CD) were obtained. We performed a nutritional assessment with screening for nutritional risk and diagnosis for malnutrition (Malnutrition Universal Screening Tool [MUST]) score, NRS‐2002, European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism (ESPEN), and Global Leadership Initiative on Malnutrition (GLIM) criteria and performed body impedance analysis (BIA).

Results

101 IBD patients (57 CD and 44 ulcerative colitis (UC) and 50 HC were included in a single northern German tertiary center. GLIM criteria detected malnutrition significantly more often compared to the ESPEN criteria. Active disease, a long‐standing disease course, and previous surgery were associated with reduced muscle mass. IBD patients had a higher fat mass index compared to HC. Mutations in the NOD2 gene had no effect on nutritional status.

Conclusions

The GLIM criteria detect malnutrition at a higher rate compared to ESPEN. Specific disease factors might put IBD patients at a higher risk for the development of malnutrition, so these patients might benefit from a frequently performed screening, which might result in a favorable disease course.
BirdFlow: Learning seasonal bird movements from eBird data
Authors: Fuentes Miguel , Van Doren Benjamin M. , Fink Daniel , Sheldon Daniel
Published: February 2023

Large‐scale monitoring of seasonal animal movement is integral to science, conservation and outreach. However, gathering representative movement data across entire species ranges is frequently intractable. Citizen science databases collect millions of animal observations throughout the year, but it is challenging to infer individual movement behaviour solely from observational data.

We present BirdFlow, a probabilistic modelling framework that draws on citizen science data from the eBird database to model the population flows of migratory birds. We apply the model to 11 species of North American birds, using GPS and satellite tracking data to tune and evaluate model performance.

We show that BirdFlow models can accurately infer individual seasonal movement behaviour directly from eBird relative abundance estimates. Supplementing the model with a sample of tracking data from wild birds improves performance.

Researchers can extract a number of behavioural inferences from model results, including migration routes, timing, connectivity and forecasts. The BirdFlow framework has the potential to advance migration ecology research, boost insights gained from direct tracking studies and serve a number of applied functions in conservation, disease surveillance, aviation and public outreach.
An exact version of Life Table Response Experiment analysis, and the R package exactLTRE
Authors: Hernández Christina M. , Ellner Stephen P. , Adler Peter B. , Hooker Giles , Snyder Robin E.
Published: February 2023

Matrix population models are frequently built and used by ecologists to analyse demography and elucidate the processes driving population growth or decline. Life Table Response Experiments (LTREs) are comparative analyses that decompose the realized difference or variance in population growth rate () into contributions from the differences or variances in the vital rates (i.e. the matrix elements). Since their introduction, LTREs have been based on approximations and have not included biologically relevant interaction terms.

We used the functional analysis of variance framework to derive an exact LTRE method, which calculates the exact response of to the difference or variance in a given vital rate, for all interactions among vital rates—including higher‐order interactions neglected by the classical methods. We used the publicly available COMADRE and COMPADRE databases to perform a meta‐analysis comparing the results of exact and classical LTRE methods. We analysed 186 and 1487 LTREs for animal and plant matrix population models, respectively.

We found that the classical methods often had small errors, but that very high errors were possible. Overall error was related to the difference or variance in the matrices being analysed, consistent with the Taylor series basis of the classical method. Neglected interaction terms accounted for most of the errors in fixed design LTRE, highlighting the importance of two‐way interaction terms. For random design LTRE, errors in the contribution terms present in both classical and exact methods were comparable to errors due to neglected interaction terms. In most examples we analysed, evaluating exact contributions up to three‐way interaction terms was sufficient for interpreting 90% or more of the difference or variance in .

Relative error, previously used to evaluate the accuracy of classical LTREs, is not a reliable metric of how closely the classical and exact methods agree. Error compensation between estimated contribution terms and neglected contribution terms can lead to low relative error despite faulty biological interpretation. Trade‐offs or negative covariances among matrix elements can lead to high relative error despite accurate biological interpretation. Exact LTRE provides reliable and accurate biological interpretation, and the R package exactLTRE makes the exact method accessible to ecologists.
Corporate carbon assurance and the quality of carbon disclosure
Authors: Luo Le , Tang Qingliang , Fan Hanlu , Ayers Jamie
Published: January 2023

Based on an international sample, this study examines the association between corporate carbon assurance and carbon disclosure. We find that companies that adopt carbon assurance tend to have better carbon disclosure quality than their unassured peers. Cross‐sectional analyses demonstrate that the positive relationship is stronger in stakeholder‐oriented countries. We also document that carbon assurance plays a substitutive role for country‐level carbon regulation and social trust. Further analyses suggest that carbon assurance has differential impacts on specific types of carbon disclosure and the quality of carbon disclosure increases with the percentage of reported emissions assured and the level of carbon assurance.
The effects of Tech‐Fin on corporate innovation: Evidence from China
Authors: Feng Chen , Hu Qing‐Yuan , Kang Yan‐Kun , Li Cheng‐Yao , Zhang Yao
Published: January 2023

This paper uses the multi‐period difference‐in‐differences (DID) method to empirically test the effects of Tech‐Fin on the innovation output of companies based on a quasi‐natural experiment to examine China's Tech‐Fin pilot city reform. We find that Tech‐Fin significantly increased the innovation output of high‐tech companies in the pilot cities and in cities with weak intellectual property protection. In addition, Tech‐Fin had no significant effects on the innovation output of pseudo‐high‐tech companies and technology‐intensive high‐tech companies. We further find that Tech‐Fin motivated high‐tech companies to increase their innovation output through innovation correction and risk‐smoothing effects.
Government provided rating, alleviation of financial constraints, and corporate investment
Authors: Li Jinyang , Wang Jenny Jing , Yu Minggui
Published: January 2023

The State Taxation Administration (STA) of China established the tax credit rating system in 2015. Together with the banking regulatory authorities, STA entitles the higher‐level firms to favourable bank lending. We find that higher‐level firms are positively associated with capital investment, R&D expenditures and employment. These effects are more pronounced in private firms, small firms, and financially constrained firms. We identify that firms rated higher‐level receive more debt financing at lower cost, and hoard less cash for the precautionary reasons. Our findings highlight the importance of the government rating, especially a developed credit rating market in which is absence in emerging economies.
The impact of board ethnic diversity on executive pay‐to‐performance sensitivity: Australian evidence
Authors: Do Truc (Peter)
Published: January 2023

We examine how board ethnic diversity impacts executive pay‐to‐performance sensitivity. Using firm‐year observations in Australia for the period 2007–2017, we document that board ethnic diversity leads to higher executive pay‐to‐performance sensitivity. The finding is robust in controlling for endogeneity using instrumental variable regression analysis, as well as using modified measures of board ethnic diversity. We also document that the impact of board ethnic diversity on executive pay‐to‐performance sensitivity is more pronounced for firms suffering from high agency costs and when the CEO's ethnicity is different from that of the majority of the board. This study helps to inform the debate on the issue of board ethnic diversity in Australia.
How does corporate social responsibility have influence on firms' access to trade credit
Authors: Wei Yufen , Liu Qigui , Luo Jinbo
Published: January 2023

This study identifies and examines the channels through which corporate social responsibility (CSR) impacts firms' access to trade credit. Using a sample of Chinese firms, we identify two channels through which CSR impacts firms' access to trade credit: (i) better CSR performance reduces firms' systematic risk; and (ii) better CSR performance enhances trust from suppliers. We also document that the positive effect that CSR has on firms' access to trade credit is more pronounced in firms with limited access to formal financial resources, i.e., in non‐state‐controlled enterprises, especially those without political connections, and in firms located in regions with a lower level of social trust. Our findings are robust to a series of tests that address the endogeneity issue. Overall, we argue that CSR performance enhances firms' access to trade credit through the channels of systematic risk and trust enhancing.
Development of molecular diagnostic platform for α0‐thalassemia 44.6 kb (Chiang Rai, ‐‐CR) deletion in individuals with microcytic red blood cells across Thailand
Authors: Khamphikham Pinyaphat , Hanmanoviriya Oravee , Wongpalee Somsakul Pop , Munkongdee Thongperm , Paiboonsukwong Kittiphong , Jopang Yupin , Wangchauy Chaowanee , Sancharernsook Charan , Jinorose Nathawat , Pornprasert Sakorn
Published: January 2023

Introduction

The α0‐thalassemia 44.6 kb or Chiang Rai (‐‐CR) deletion has been reported in northern Thailand and is capable of causing hemoglobin (Hb) H disease and a lethal α‐thalassemia genotype, Hb Bart's hydrops fetalis, in this region. However, there are no current data regarding the frequency of ‐‐CR nationwide due to a lack of effective diagnostic assay. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a reliable platform for simultaneous genotyping of ‐‐CR and two common α0‐thalassemias in Thailand (‐‐SEA and ‐‐THAI) and investigate the frequency of ‐‐CR across Thailand.

Methods

Multiplex gap‐PCR assay and five renewable plasmid DNA controls for ‐‐CR, ‐‐SEA, ‐‐THAI, α2‐globin (HBA2), and β‐actin (ACTB) were newly developed and validated with reference methods. The developed assay was further tested on 1046 unrelated individuals with a reduced mean corpuscular volume (MCV) of less than 75 fl for investigating genotypic and allelic spectrum of ‐‐CR.

Results

Our developed assay showed 100% concordance with reference methods. The results were valid and reproducible throughout hundreds of reactions. Comparison of the genotypic and allelic spectra revealed that heterozygous ‐‐SEA (‐‐SEA/αα) and ‐‐SEA alleles were dominant with the frequency of 22.85% (239/1046) and 13.34% (279/2092), respectively. Of these, ‐‐THAI and ‐‐CR were relatively rare in this population and comparable to each other with the allelic frequency of 0.14% (3/2092).

Conclusion

This study successfully established a reliable molecular diagnostic platform for genotyping of ‐‐CR, ‐‐SEA, and ‐‐THAI in a single reaction. Additionally, we demonstrated the frequency of ‐‐CR in Thailand for the first time and provided knowledge basis for the planning of severe α‐thalassemia prevention and control programs in Thailand, where thalassemia is endemic.
How Patronage Delivers: Political Appointments, Bureaucratic Accountability, and Service Delivery in Brazil
Authors: Toral Guillermo
Published: January 2023

The political appointment of bureaucrats is typically seen as jeopardizing development by selecting worse types into the bureaucracy or by depressing bureaucratic effort. I argue that political appointments also affect outcomes through a third, less studied channel, namely, by changing how bureaucrats work. Patronage provides connections between bureaucrats and politicians, and thereby grants access to material and nonmaterial resources, enhances monitoring, facilitates the application of sanctions and rewards, aligns priorities and incentives, and increases mutual trust. Political appointments can thus enhance bureaucrats’ accountability and effectiveness, not just for rent‐seeking purposes but also, in certain conditions, for public service delivery. I test this theory using data on Brazilian municipal governments, leveraging two quasi‐experiments, two original surveys of bureaucrats and politicians, and in‐depth interviews. The findings highlight the countervailing effects of connections on bureaucratic governance in the developing world.
Treatment of COVID‐19 patients with a SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific siRNA‐peptide dendrimer formulation
Authors: Khaitov Musa , Nikonova Alexandra , Kofiadi Ilya , Shilovskiy Igor , Smirnov Valeriy , Elisytina Olga , Maerle Artem , Shatilov Artem , Shatilova Anastasia , Andreev Sergey , Sergeev Ilya , Trofimov Dmitry , Latysheva Tatyana , Ilyna Natalia , Martynov Alexander , Rabdano Sevastyan , Ruzanova Ellina , Savelev Nikita , Pletiukhina Iuliia , Safi Ariana , Ratnikov Vyacheslav , Gorelov Viktor , Kaschenko Viktor , Kucherenko Natalya , Umarova Irina , Moskaleva Svetlana , Fabrichnikov Sergei , Zuev Oleg , Pavlov Nikolai , Kruchko Daria , Berzin Igor , Goryachev Dmitriy , Merkulov Vadim , Shipulin German , Udin Sergey , Trukhin Victor , Valenta Rudolf , Skvortsova Veronica
Published: February 2023

Background

Severe acute respiratory syndrome corona virus (SARS‐CoV‐2) infection frequently causes severe and prolonged disease but only few specific treatments are available. We aimed to investigate safety and efficacy of a SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific siRNA‐peptide dendrimer formulation MIR 19® (siR‐7‐EM/KK‐46) targeting a conserved sequence in known SARS‐CoV‐2 variants for treatment of COVID‐19.

Methods

We conducted an open‐label, randomized, controlled multicenter phase II trial (NCT05184127) evaluating safety and efficacy of inhaled siR‐7‐EM/KK‐46 (3.7 mg and 11.1 mg/day: low and high dose, respectively) in comparison with standard etiotropic drug treatment (control group) in patients hospitalized with moderate COVID‐19 (N = 52 for each group). The primary endpoint was the time to clinical improvement according to predefined criteria within 14 days of randomization.

Results

Patients from the low‐dose group achieved the primary endpoint defined by simultaneous achievement of relief of fever, normalization of respiratory rate, reduction of coughing, and oxygen saturation of >95% for 48 h significantly earlier (median 6 days; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 5–7, HR 1.75, p = .0005) than patients from the control group (8 days; 95% CI: 7–10). No significant clinical efficacy was observed for the high‐dose group. Adverse events were reported in 26 (50.00%), 25 (48.08%), and 28 (53.85%) patients from the low‐, high‐dose and control group, respectively. None of them were associated with siR‐7‐EM/KK‐46.

Conclusions

siR‐7‐EM/KK‐46, a SARS‐CoV‐2‐specific siRNA‐peptide dendrimer formulation is safe, well tolerated and significantly reduces time to clinical improvement in patients hospitalized with moderate COVID‐19 compared to standard therapy in a randomized controlled trial.
The use of cerebral computed tomographic angiography as an ancillary investigation to support a clinical diagnosis of death using neurological criteria: a consensus guideline
Authors: Thomas E. O. , Manara A. , Dineen R. A. , Mortimer A. , Aziz O. , Dean P. , Elliott P. , Summers D. M. , Whitfield P. C. , Hutchinson P. J. , Gardiner D.
Published: January 2023

This multidisciplinary consensus statement was produced following a recommendation by the Faculty of Intensive Care Medicine to develop a UK guideline for ancillary investigation, when one is required, to support the diagnosis of death using neurological criteria. A multidisciplinary panel reviewed the literature and UK practice in the diagnosis of death using neurological criteria and recommended cerebral CT angiography as the ancillary investigation of choice when death cannot be confirmed by clinical criteria alone. Cerebral CT angiography has been shown to have 100% specificity in supporting a diagnosis of death using neurological criteria and is an investigation available in all acute hospitals in the UK. A standardised technique for performing the investigation is described alongside a reporting template. The panel were unable to make recommendations for ancillary testing in children or patients receiving extracorporeal membrane oxygenation.
Trend of change of sperm count and concentration over the last two decades: A systematic review and meta‐regression analysis
Authors: Cipriani Sonia , Ricci Elena , Chiaffarino Francesca , Esposito Giovanna , Dalmartello Michela , La Vecchia Carlo , Negri Eva , Parazzini Fabio
Published: January 2023

Background

Since the 1970s, several studies found that sperm concentration (SC) and total sperm count (TSC) constantly worsened over time, mainly in high‐income countries.

Objectives

To evaluate whether the decreasing trend in sperm count is continuing in Western European countries and USA, we performed a systematic review and meta‐regression analysis.

Materials and methods

Embase and Pubmed/Medline were searched papers published in English in the 2000–2020 period limiting the search to data collected in the USA and Western European countries.

Results

We identified 62 articles and pooled information on 24,196 men (range 10–2,523), collected from 1993 to 2018. Considering all the studies, random‐effects meta‐regression analyses showed no significant trend for SC (slope per year −0.07 mil/mL, p‐value = 0.86). Negative trends of SC were detected in Scandinavian countries (slope per year −1.11 mil/mL, 95% CI: −2.40 to +0.19; p‐value = 0.09), but the findings were statistically not significant. No significant trends of SC were detected in Central Europe (slope per year +0.23, 95% CI −2.51 to +2.96; p‐value = 0.87), the USA (slope per year +1.08, 95% CI −0.42 to +2.57; p‐value = 0.16), and Southern Europe (slope per year +0.19, 95% CI −0.99 to +1.37; p‐value = 0.75).

We have analyzed separately findings from studies including sperm donors, fertile men, young unselected men (unselected men, study mean age < 25 years) and unselected men (unselected men, study mean age ≥ 25 years). No significant trends of SC were observed among sperm donors (slope per year −2.80, 95% CI −6.76 to +1.17; p‐value 0.16), unselected men (slope per year −0.23, 95% CI −1.58 to +1.12; p‐value 0.73), young unselected men (slope per year −0.49, 95% CI −1.76 to +0.79; p‐value 0.45), fertile men (slope per year +0.29, 95% CI −1.09 to +1.67; p‐value 0.68).

Discussion and conclusion

The results of this analysis show no significant trends in SC, in USA, and selected Western European countries.
Retinal vessel diameters and microvascular abnormalities in patients with carotid stenosis before and 6 months after carotid endarterectomy: A prospective study
Authors: Ala‐Kauhaluoma Marianne , Ijäs Petra , Koskinen Suvi M. , Nuotio Krista , Vikatmaa Pirkka , Silvennoinen Heli , Relander Kristiina , Lindsberg Perttu J. , Soinne Lauri , Summanen Paula A.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To assess retinal findings in patients with severe carotid stenosis (CS) before and after carotid endarterectomy (CEA) compared to those in controls.

Methods

This study is based on 70 patients (male 81%, mean age 69) scheduled for CEA in Helsinki University Hospital and 41 healthy nonmedicated controls (male 76%, mean age 68). Our examinations included fundus photographs. Semi‐automated software (Vesselmap, Imedos) served for evaluation of central retinal arterial equivalent (CRAE) and venular equivalent (CRVE), and arterio‐venous ratio (AVR) in both eyes. We assessed fundus photographs to subjectively grade microvascular abnormalities in the ipsilateral eyes including focal arteriolar narrowing and irregularities, arteriolar wall reflex, arterio‐venous crossing signs and arteriolar and venular tortuosity in the macula.

Results

CRAE was similar in the ipsi‐and contralateral eyes of our patients, and similar to that of the controls both pre‐ and postoperatively. Preoperatively, we observed higher CRVE in the patients' ipsilateral than in their contralateral eyes (222 vs. 217 μm, p = 0.009), and likewise higher than in controls' eyes (222 vs. 214 μm, p = 0.024). CRVE decreased postoperatively in the patients' ipsilateral eyes (222 vs. 217 μm, p = 0.037). Among the microvascular abnormalities, arteriolar and venular tortuosity in the macula showed higher grades in the patients than in the controls preoperatively (p = 0.035 and p = 0.043), but not postoperatively (p = 0.15 and p = 0.10).

Conclusions

CRVE decreased after CEA, showing that venules constrict after the mechanical hindrance of blood flow is removed. Higher grades in arteriolar and venular tortuosity in the macula, a potential ocular biomarker of CS, subsided after CEA.
Respecting relational agency in the context of vulnerability: What can research ethics learn from the social sciences?
Authors: Roest Jennifer , Nkosi Busisiwe , Seeley Janet , Molyneux Sassy , Kelley Maureen
Published: January 2023

Despite advances in theory, often driven by feminist ethicists, research ethics struggles in practice to adequately account for and respond to the agency and autonomy of people considered vulnerable in the research context. We argue that shifts within feminist research ethics scholarship to better characterise and respond to autonomy and agency can be bolstered by further grounding in discourses from the social sciences, in work that confirms the complex nature of human agency in contexts of structural and other sources of vulnerability. We discuss some of the core concepts and critiques emerging from the literature on women and children's agency in under‐resourced settings, highlighting calls to move from individualistic to relational models of agency, and to recognise the ambiguous, value‐laden, and heterogeneous nature of the concept. We then draw out what these conceptual shifts might mean for research ethics obligations and guidance, illustrating our analysis using a case vignette based on research ethics work conducted in South Africa. We conclude that if research practices are to be supportive of agency, it will be crucial to scrutinise the moral judgements which underpin accounts of agency, derive more situated definitions of and responses to agency, and enable people and participants to influence these based on their own experiences and self‐perceptions.
Linking changes in quality of life to haematologic response and survival in systemic immunoglobulin light‐chain amyloidosis
Authors: Cohen Oliver , Rendas‐Baum Regina , McCausland Kristen , Foard Darren , Manwani Richa , Ravichandran Sriram , Lachmann Helen , Mahmood Shameem , Wisniowski Brendan , Hawkins Philip N. , Gillmore Julian , Hsu Kristen , Rebello Sabrina , Wechalekar Ashutosh
Published: January 2023

This study reports health‐related quality of life (HRQL) among newly‐diagnosed immunoglobulin light‐chain (AL) patients (n = 914) treated with a bortezomib‐based regimen and its association with response depth and survival. Haematologic response/HRQL were assessed over 24 months in an ongoing, prospective study. HRQL change was calculated across haematologic/cardiac response levels. The relationship between baseline HRQL and survival was evaluated by the Cox proportional‐hazard model (PH). Shared‐random‐effects models (SREMs) estimated time‐to‐death conditional on current HRQL/longitudinal HRQL trajectory. At 3 months, there was consistent decline in 5/8 HRQL domains across all haematologic response levels. By 12 months, 3/5 declining domains improved among complete response (CR) patients. In contrast, the mean change in less‐than‐CR patients did not indicate improvement. Under the Cox PH, having a baseline HRQL score five points higher than the sample mean was associated with 20% lower mortality risk. SREMs indicated a five‐point greater HRQL score at the event time correlated with an approximately 30% decrease in mortality risk. For each one‐point increase in HRQL score trajectory slope, mortality risk decreased by approximately 88%. Only CR patients had HRQL improvement, while partial response patients had less decline but no meaningful improvements. These data show the importance of HRQL serial assessments of AL patients and its importance as an end‐point.
Relapsed or refractory large B‐cell lymphoma after chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell therapy: Current challenges and therapeutic options
Authors: Del Toro‐Mijares Raul , Oluwole Olalekan , Jayani Reena V. , Kassim Adetola A. , Savani Bipin N. , Dholaria Bhagirathbhai
Published: January 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T‐cell (CAR‐T) therapy can provide durable remission in patients with relapsed or refractory diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (DLBCL) after failure of chemoimmunotherapy. However, patients who are refractory or relapsing after CAR‐T therapy have poor outcomes. Multiple mechanisms of CAR‐T therapy failure have been proposed but management of these patients remains a challenge. As CAR‐T therapy moves earlier in the treatment of DLBCL, we urgently need trials focused on patients with relapse after CAR‐T therapy. Recent advances in novel immunotherapies such as bispecific antibodies, antibody–drug conjugates and next‐generation CAR‐T therapies may provide avenues for treatment. Here we review the available data on using these drugs after failure of CAR‐T therapy and provide a framework for the ideal sequencing of these novel agents.
Adjuvant immunotherapy in renal cell carcinoma: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Riveros Carlos , Huang Emily , Ranganathan Sanjana , Klaassen Zachary , Rini Brian , Wallis Christopher J.D. , Satkunasivam Raj
Published: January 2023

Objectives

To synthesise available data regarding the disease‐free survival (DFS) benefit of adjuvant immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) for patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and evaluate the overall safety profile of ICIs in this setting.

Materials and Methods

We utilised PubMed, Embase, and relevant conference proceedings to identify phase III randomised controlled trials comparing adjuvant ICIs vs placebo/observation for RCC. The primary outcome of interest was DFS. Variables for subgroup analyses were programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression, sarcomatoid features, nephrectomy type, and disease‐risk category. Secondary outcomes included Grade ≥3 adverse events (AEs), immune‐related AEs, and treatment discontinuation due to AEs. All outcomes were analysed using random‐effects models owing to inter‐study heterogeneity.

Results

Among the four included studies, one demonstrated a significant DFS benefit. There was considerable clinical and statistical heterogeneity (I2 = 64%) due to differences in inclusion criteria and interventions. While pooled results across the four studies did not demonstrate a significant benefit in DFS overall (hazard ratio [HR] 0.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.69–1.04) there was significant benefit among patients with positive PD‐L1 expression (HR 0.72, 95% CI 0.55–0.94) and sarcomatoid features (HR 0.59, 95% CI 0.38–0.91).

Conclusion

The evidence base to date regarding ICIs as adjuvant therapy in RCC is mixed – conclusions are limited by considerable heterogeneity between studies. However, pooled analyses suggest that patients with positive PD‐L1 expression or sarcomatoid features are most likely to benefit from adjuvant immunotherapy.
Novel operational index reveals rapid recovery of genetic connectivity in freshwater fish species after riverine restoration
Authors: Prunier Jérôme G. , Loot Géraldine , Veyssiere Charlotte , Poulet Nicolas , Blanchet Simon
Published: January 2023

Hyperfragmentation of rivers by anthropogenic barriers is a major threat to biodiversity. Restoration policies are being adopted worldwide to mitigate these impacts, particularly those on fish connectivity. We assessed the utility of a novel genetic index of fragmentation, the FINDEX, by monitoring real‐time responses of two fish genera to restoration operations at 11 weirs in France. The FINDEX outperformed traditional genetic tools, detecting barriers more efficiently, and thereby improving estimates of recovery of connectivity following restoration. Most weirs had significant impacts on connectivity before restoration, especially the highest and steepest ones. Restoration actions systematically improved genetic connectivity, sometimes completely and in just a few months, with an overall halving of fragmentation levels. Our study demonstrates that current restoration policies are recovering genetic connectivity efficiently, and that practitioners may benefit from the FINDEX as a new operational tool to assess barrier strength for nonmigratory organisms and to plan and monitor riverine restoration.
Colony‐stimulating factor 1 positive (CSF1+) secretory epithelial cells induce excessive trophoblast invasion in tubal pregnancy rupture
Authors: Zhao Xiaoya , Yan Li , Ji Sifan , Zhang Yiqin , Ha Lisai , He Chuqing , Tian Yuan , Chen Luting , Zhu Qian , Li Mingqing , Zhang Jian
Published: February 2023

Tubal ectopic pregnancy (TEP) occurs when an embryo aberrantly implants in the fallopian tube, leading to abortive or ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy (AEP or REP). Poor outcomes of REP include maternal infertility or mortality. Current studies on the prevention and treatment of ruptured tubal ectopic pregnancy (REP) are unfortunately hampered by a lack of the cell spectrum and cell–cell communications in the maternal–foetal interface. Here, we investigate the mechanisms of tubal rupture through single‐cell transcriptome profiling of the fallopian tube‐trophoblast interface in REP, AEP and intrauterine pregnancy patients. In REP, extravillous trophoblast (EVTs) cells form a dominant cell population, displaying aggressive invasion and proliferation, with robust differentiation into three subsets. Cell communication analysis identified colony‐stimulating factor 1 (CSF1), overexpressed by fallopian tube secretory epithelial cells in REP, with CSF1R on EVTs and macrophages, as a ligand/receptor pair that stimulates EVT invasion and macrophage accumulation. CSF1+ secretory epithelial cells stimulate EVTs migration and invasion, leading to a tubal rupture in REP. These results provide a mechanistic context and cellular milieu leading to tubal rupture, facilitating further study and development of therapeutics for REP in early pregnancy.
Narrative review of migraine management in patients with renal or hepatic disease
Authors: Stern Jennifer I. , Datta Shae , Chiang Chia‐Chun , Garza Ivan , Vieira Dorice L. , Robertson Carrie E.
Published: January 2023

Objectives/Background

Treatment of migraine in the setting of either renal or hepatic disease can be daunting for clinicians. Not only does the method of metabolism have to be considered, but also the method of elimination/excretion of the parent drug and any active or toxic metabolites. Furthermore, it is difficult to think about liver or kidney disease in isolation, as liver disease can sometimes contribute to impaired renal function and renal disease can sometimes impair hepatic metabolism, through the cytochrome P450 system.

Methods

A detailed search for terms related to liver disease, renal disease, and migraine management was performed in PubMed, Ovid Medline, Embase, and the Cochrane Library.For each medication, product labels were retrieved and reviewed using the US FDA website, with additional review of IBM Micromedex, LiverTox, and the Renal Drug Handbook.

Results

This manuscript provides an overview of migraine drug metabolism and how it can be affected by liver and renal impairment. It reviews the standard terminology recommended by the US Food and Drug Administration for the different stages of hepatic and renal failure. The available evidence regarding the use of abortive and preventative medicines in the setting of organ failure is discussed in detail, including more recent therapies such as lasmiditan, gepants, and calcitonin gene‐related peptide antibodies.

Conclusions

For acute therapy, the use of NSAIDS should be limited, as these carry risk for both severe hepatic and renal disease. Triptans can be selectively used, often with dose guideline adjustments. Ubrogepant may be used in severe hepatic disease with dose adjustment and lasmiditan can be used in end stage renal disease. Though non‐medicine strategies may be the most reasonable initial approach, many preventative medications can be used in the setting of hepatic and renal disease, often with dose adjustment. This review provides tables of guidelines, including reduced dosing recommendations, for the use of abortive and preventative migraine medications in hepatic and renal failure.
Fabrication of high strength and thermal insulation porous ceramics via adjusting the fiberglass contents
Authors: Li Saisai , Chang Bing , Li Minghui , Ran Songlin
Published: January 2023

Fiberglass porous ceramics were successfully prepared via a foam‐gelcasting process with fiberglass and glass particles. The effects of fiber content on the rheology of foaming slurries and the structure and mechanical properties of as‐prepared porous ceramics were investigated. The results showed that as the ratio of fiberglass to glass particles increased, the thixotropy of slurries decreased, which affected the foamability of slurries. When the ratio of fiberglass to particle was 75:25, the slurries exhibited excellent flowability and outstanding foamability, which was beneficial to optimize the structure of pores and improve the properties of the porous ceramics. The porosity, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity of porous ceramics with a content of 75 wt.% fiberglass treated at 750°C were 78.3%, 2.15 MPa, and .11 W/(m·K) (room temperature), respectively. Therefore, the prepared porous ceramics with a ratio of fiberglass to particle 75:25 were regarded as an ideal candidate for thermal insulation materials.