bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterizing autistic traits in treatment‐seeking young adults with substance use disorders
Authors: McKowen James , Woodward Diana , Yule Amy M. , DiSalvo Maura , Rao Vinod , Greenbaum Julia , Joshi Gagan , Wilens Timothy E.
Published: December 2021

Background and Objectives

Recent work highlights an increase in the overlap of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and substance use disorder (SUD). Little is known about the presence of ASD symptoms in SUD‐treatment‐seeking populations.

Methods

The informant‐rated Social Responsiveness Scale‐2 (SRS‐2) was completed at intake to an outpatient SUD clinic for youth aged 16–26 (N = 69). Comparisons were made between those with elevated SRS‐2 scores on demographic, psychiatric, and substance use variables.

Results

Parents of sixty‐nine patients with SUD completed the SRS‐2. Fourteen (20%) (average age 18.7 ± 2.5) had elevated SRS‐2 Total T‐scores (≥66) and 55 (average age 18.1 ± 2.8) had non‐clinical SRS‐2 Total T‐scores. There were few differences between groups; however, those with elevated SRS‐2 Total T‐scores were more likely to have a stimulant use disorder (odds ratio [OR] = 7.59, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.77, 101.88; p = 0.05) or an opioid use disorder (OR = 5.02, 95% CI = 0.59, 43.27; p = 0.08) than patients with normal SRS‐2 Total T‐scores as well as alcohol use in the week prior to intake.

Discussion and Conclusions

A significant proportion of treatment‐seeking SUD outpatients suffer from clinically elevated autistic traits. These findings highlight the importance of assessing for autistic traits in SUD treatment settings yet additional research is needed to determine if these findings are specific to the presence of ASD or secondary to sequelae of specific SUD presentations.

Scientific Significance

This study is, to our knowledge, the first to have examined the prevalence, morbidity, or clinical characteristics, associated with ASD symptoms in a SUD‐specific population.
The price of cage‐free eggs: Social cost of Proposition 12 in California
Authors: Oh Sohae Eve , Vukina Tomislav
Published: December 2021

In November 2018, California passed the so‐called Proposition 12 that completely bans selling eggs produced in any type of cages by the end of 2021. The objective of this study is to estimate the welfare effects of Proposition 12 in a partial equilibrium setup where both the supply and the demand side of the market are simultaneously modeled. Our estimates show that the implementation of Proposition 12 would result in welfare losses for both buyers and sellers of eggs in California. The state‐level expected annual welfare loss to households amounts to $72 million, whereas the industry level losses at the retail level amount to 18% of their original quasi profits.
Effects of microclimate on bolete species richness and biomass in a Northern Benin woodland
Authors: Badou Sylvestre A. , Houdanon Roel D. , Tchan Kassim I. , Olou Boris A. , Yorou Nourou S.
Published: December 2021

Studies examining the role of abiotic variables on fructification sequences of ectomycorrhizal symbionts (boletes), the extent and direction of these effects are quite rare in Africa. In the current study, we assessed the effects of microclimate on the distribution and productivity of boletes in Benin. Nine permanent plots of 2500 m2 each split into 25 subplots of 100 m2 were installed in three different vegetation types. The first vegetation type is dominated by Isoberlinia doka, the second by Isoberlinia tomentosa and the third by Uapaca togoensis. Abiotic variables, including soil temperature, air temperature, air relative humidity and soil moisture, were recorded every 30 min from June to October. Each plot was surveyed twice a week during the mushroom season over 3 years (2015, 2016 and 2017) to record the abundance and the fresh biomass. The effects of microclimate on boletes productivity were evaluated using generalised linear mixed models in R. Boletes give the largest natural production in July and the lowest in October. Only soil moisture has a significant negative influence on the abundance (p > 0.05). The fruiting periods of boletes are known according to the variability of the microclimatic parameters and the vegetation.
Obstacles to regulating the private sector: The case of Korean long‐term care
Authors: Jung Chang Lyul , Walker Alan
Published: December 2021

This paper examines the attempts to improve public accountability in the private‐led Korean Long‐Term Care (LTC) insurance system, illustrating their characteristics and limitations. Korea introduced universal LTC insurance in 2008, but with the purposeful exclusion of public provision, for‐profit providers were able to take part without regulation, which caused problems such as low‐quality services and widespread corruption. In response, the government tried to improve public accountability through various regulations such as new accounting/finance rules, but when such regulations had negative effects on their profits, they were met with stout resistance from providers. This case study of Korean LTC insurance illustrates the difficulty of implementing regulations to improve public accountability in a private welfare system.
Concentration–response relationships of dolutegravir and efavirenz with weight change after starting antiretroviral therapy
Authors: Griesel Rulan , Kawuma Aida N. , Wasmann Roeland , Sokhela Simiso , Akpomiemie Godspower , Venter W. D. Francois , Wiesner Lubbe , Denti Paolo , Sinxadi Phumla , Maartens Gary
Published: December 2021

Dolutegravir is associated with more weight gain than efavirenz in people starting antiretroviral therapy (ART). We investigated the concentration–response relationships of efavirenz and dolutegravir with weight gain. We determined concentration–response relationships of dolutegravir and efavirenz (both combined with tenofovir disoproxil fumarate and emtricitabine) with changes in weight and fat distribution, derived from dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry scans, in a nested study of ART‐naïve participants from a randomised controlled trial. Pharmacokinetic parameters used in analyses were efavirenz mid‐dosing interval concentrations and estimated dolutegravir area under the concentration–time curve using a population pharmacokinetic model developed in the study population. Study outcomes were percentage changes from baseline to week 48 in weight, and visceral and subcutaneous adipose tissue mass. Pharmacokinetic data were available for 158 and 233 participants in the efavirenz arm and dolutegravir arms respectively; 57.0% were women. On multivariable linear regression there were independent negative associations between efavirenz concentrations and changes in both weight (P < .001) and subcutaneous adipose tissue mass (P = .002). Estimated dolutegravir area under the concentration–time curve up to 24 hours was not associated with change in weight (P = .109) but was negatively associated with change in visceral adipose tissue mass (P = .025). We found an independent negative concentration–response relationship between efavirenz concentrations and weight change in ART‐naïve participants. Dolutegravir concentrations were not independently associated with weight change. These findings suggest that weight gain differences between efavirenz and dolutegravir are driven by efavirenz toxicity impairing weight gain rather than by off‐target effects of dolutegravir causing weight gain.
Large paracetamol overdose—Higher dose acetylcysteine is required
Authors: Bateman D. Nicholas
Published: December 2021

Paracetamol poisoning continues to be a worldwide problem and, despite the availability of an effective antidote, acetylcysteine (NAC), the optimal way to use this antidote, particularly following very large doses of paracetamol, has not been established. Recent case series have shown an increased toxicity from high doses of paracetamol, even in those receiving prompt NAC therapy, particularly in patients above the 300 mg/L nomogram treatment line. Clinical trial evidence supporting shorter NAC dosing now allows the possibility for intensifying treatment without the risk of very high rates of ADRs. New biomarkers also show the possibility of early identification of patients at risk of liver injury who might also benefit from increased intensity treatment. This article discusses these data and proposes a logical therapy for increasing NAC dosing which now requires clinical trial testing.
Population‐based randomized trial of screening for clinically significant prostate cancer ProScreen: a pilot study
Authors: Rannikko Antti , Leht Mare , Mirtti Tuomas , Kenttämies Anu , Tolonen Teemu , Rinta‐Kiikka Irina , Kilpeläinen Tuomas P. , Natunen Kari , Lilja Hans , Lehtimäki Terho , Raitanen Jani , Kujala Paula , Ronkainen Johanna , Matikainen Mika , Petas Anssi , Taari Kimmo , Tammela Teuvo , Auvinen Anssi
Published: December 2021

Objectives

To evaluate the feasibility of a population‐based screening trial using prostate‐specific antigen (PSA), a kallikrein panel and multiparametric magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) aimed at minimizing overdiagnosis, while retaining mortality benefit.

Patients and Methods

Feasibility of the screening algorithm was evaluated in terms of participation, screening test results and cancer detection. A random sample of 400 men aged 65 years was identified from the population registry and invited for screening with three stepwise tests (PSA, kallikrein panel and MRI). Men with PSA levels ≥3 ng/mL were further tested with the kallikrein panel, and those with positive findings (risk >7.5%) were referred for prostate MRI. Men with positive MRI (Prostate Imaging Reporting and Data System [PI‐RADS] score 3–5) had targeted biopsies only. Men with negative MRI, but PSA density ≥0.15 underwent systematic biopsies.

Results

Of the 399 men invited, 158 (40%) participated and 27 had PSA levels ≥3 ng/mL (7% of the invited and 17% of the participants). Of these, 22 had a positive kallikrein panel (6% of the invited and 81% of the PSA‐positive men). Finally, 10 men (3% of the invited and 45% of 4Kscore [kallikrein panel]‐positive) had a suspicious MRI finding (PI‐RADS score ≥3) and five were diagnosed with a clinically significant prostate cancer (Gleason Grade Group [GG] ≥2) at fusion biopsy (3% of the participants), with two GG 1 cases (1%). Additional testing (kallikrein panel and MRI) after PSA reduced biopsies by 56%.

Conclusion

The findings constitute proof of principle for our screening protocol, as we achieved a substantial detection rate for clinically significant cancer with few clinically insignificant cases. Participation, however, was suboptimal.
The boss is not always right: Norwegian preschoolers do not selectively endorse the testimony of a novel dominant agent
Authors: Fonn Erik Kjos , Zahl Joakim Haugane , Thomsen Lotte
Published: December 2021

Theories of cultural evolution posit that cues of competence‐based prestige, rather than formidability‐based dominance, should guide culturally transmitted learning, but recent work suggested that French and Kaqchikel Guatamalan preschoolers place their epistemic trust in dominant others. In contrast, this study shows that 249 three‐ to six‐year‐olds (116 girls, tested between 2016 and 2018 across metropolitan locations with varying ethnic composition and socioeconomic status) randomly endorsed the word‐labels of dominant and subordinate agents in the egalitarian culture of Norway, using stimuli which solicit dominance inferences among infants and manipulating anonymity across studies to control for egalitarian desirability bias. A meta‐analysis estimated that 48% endorsed the dominant's testimony. This demonstrates that the tendency to endorse the epistemic claims of dominant individuals does not emerge reliably in early childhood.
Pathogenic “germline” variants associated with myeloproliferative disorders in apparently normal individuals: Inherited or acquired genetic alterations?
Authors: Veitia Reiner A. , Innan Hideki
Published: December 2021

Myeloproliferative syndromes (MPS) are hematologic malignancies due to the expansion of an abnormal hematopoietic stem cell. They include chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) and non‐CML MPS such as polycythemia vera, essential thrombocythemia and primary myelofibrosis. The latter are distinguished by somatic pathogenic variants affecting JAK2, CALR, or MPL genes. Apparent germline pathogenic variants have been reported in the general population. Here, we found that two gnomAD data‐sets report more homozygotes than expected for the JAK2 c.1849G > T(Val617Phe) variant. We propose that somatic gene conversion can explain the presence of those unexpected homozygotes in normal populations. Consistently, homozygous individuals are older than 65 years. We also found a lower‐than‐expected frequency of the JAK2 variant in younger individuals suggesting that somatic mutation can underlie its presence in (at least some) heterozygotes. Regarding pathogenic variants in MPL and CALR, they are also present in the gnomAD data‐sets explored. However, we cannot conclude that such seemingly germline variants are in fact somatic alterations. These results suggest that apparently normal individuals bearing MPS‐related variants can be subclinical/undiagnosed MPS cases of somatic origin. It would be interesting to assess the hematologic phenotype of such individuals and the presence of the relevant variants in other tissues.
Life‐history research with children: Extending and enriching the approach
Authors: Hargreaves Eleanore
Published: December 2021

This article explores the life‐history research approach, outlining its key aims and traditions. It suggests that what is often missing from life‐history research is the inclusion of young children as life‐history participants. This paper considers some innovative means for constructing children's life‐histories across 5 years of their primary schooling in Britain. These include interviews based on activities, games, role‐play, pictures and filming, and photography. The article concludes by narrating a short life‐history of one child who is a participant in our life‐history study of 23 ‘lower‐attaining’ children. To close, I consider the critical role of life‐history research in highlighting social injustice.
Redo ileocolic resection in Crohn's disease – does time passed since previous surgery matter?
Authors: Freund Michael R. , Kent Ilan , Horesh Nir , Smith Timothy , Wexner Steven D.
Published: December 2021

Aim

Surgical resection for Crohn's disease (CD) remains noncurative, therefore recurrence is a significant problem. Although numerous factors affecting surgical outcomes in redo ileocolic resection have been previously described, no study has considered the relation between the interval of time from initial ileocolic resection to the redo procedure and its effect on surgical outcomes. The aim of this study was to explore this relationship.

Method

A retrospective review of all adult patients undergoing redo ileocolic resection for CD between 2011 to 2020 was conducted. Patients were divided into two groups based on time from initial ileocolic resection. Patients operated within 10 years of their initial surgery (≤10 years) were assigned to the early group, while patients operated >10 years after initial surgery were allocated to the late group. Primary outcome was the 30‐day postoperative major complication rate.

Results

Fifty‐eight patients underwent redo ileocolic resection, 24 in the early group and 34 in the late group. Apart from older median age in the late group (56 vs. 46.5 years, p = 0.026), the groups were similar for patient factors, disease site and behaviour, use of immune‐suppressing medication and procedural factors. Significant differences in 30‐day postoperative morbidity included longer length of stay (6 vs. 5 days, p = 0.035), a higher major complication rate (23.5% vs. 4.1%, p = 0.04) and higher readmission rate (26.4% vs. 4.1%, p = 0.035) in the late group. The overall complication rate remained nonsignificant (37.5% vs. 61.8%, p = 0.1).

Conclusions

Redo ileocolic resection, when performed >10 years from the initial ileocolic resection, may be associated with increased morbidity, specifically higher rates of major postoperative complications, a longer length of stay and more readmissions.
Board meetings dynamics and information diffusion
Authors: Bonini Stefano , Lagasio Valentina
Published: December 2021

Research Question/Issue

This paper provides novel evidence on the dynamics of board meetings and the economic value of their decisions. We exploit a unique regulatory requirement of the Italian Stock Exchange that mandates the publication of board meeting minutes when the board votes on “price sensitive” matters to analyze detailed data about directors' participation, discussions, voting, and the dissemination of their decisions to the market.

Research Findings/Insights

In a large, multiyear sample of board meeting minutes, we show previously unavailable patterns of board meetings participation and discussion and highlight the moderating role of key governance mechanisms that shed novel light on the effectiveness of boards. Looking at the economic value of board meetings, we document significant delays in the diffusion of information in the market that may be indicative of information leakage.

Theoretical/Academic Implications

We contribute to the theoretical discussion about the role of boards. Our results are consistent with a supervisory approach model of boards where consensus is high and dissent is costly. However, they cast doubt on the efficacy of boards as a counterbalancing mechanism to the power of executives.

Practitioner/Policy Implications

Boards have grown in size and become increasingly complex. This study documents the actual discussion, participation, and voting dynamics of board meetings and provides evidence on the diffusion of information to market participants, which is valuable in the design of efficient corporate governance mechanisms.
Agroecology, Supply Chains, and COVID‐19: Lessons on Food System Transitions from Ecuador
Authors: Lyall Angus , Vallejo Fernanda , Colloredo‐Mansfeld Rudi , Havice Elizabeth
Published: December 2021

In cities, agroecological food consumption is often identified as an exclusive, middle‐class practice. In this article, we examine changes in agroecological food circuits in urban Ecuador, amid COVID‐19 breakdowns in conventional food systems. Through interviews with farmers, government officials, and NGO workers in 2020 and 2021, our research identifies three sets of experiences with distinct implications for agroecological transitions. First, some agroecological circuits could no longer function due to regulations on food circulation that favored the corporate food sector. Second, some circuits temporarily expanded to reach more urban middle‐class consumers, using online platforms and government infrastructures. Third, urban collectives and neighborhood organizations re‐appropriated urban spaces – from cultural centers to city streets – to facilitate the circulation of agroecological foods in low‐income sectors. We highlight the spatial and social ‘re‐localization’ practices of these urban groups that challenge the hegemony of conventional food circuits, as they drive agroecological food consumption beyond the middle‐class.
Perception of the coronavirus pandemic by patients with atopic dermatitis – Results from the TREATgermany registry
Authors: Helmert Claudia , Siegels Doreen , Haufe Eva , Abraham Susanne , Heratizadeh Annice , Kleinheinz Andreas , Harder Inken , Schäkel Knut , Effendy Isaak , Wollenberg Andreas , Sticherling Michael , Stahl Maren , Worm Margitta , Schwichtenberg Uwe , Schwarz Beate , Rossbacher Jens , Buck Philipp Marcel , Schenck Florian , Werfel Thomas , Weidinger Stephan , Schmitt Jochen ,   the TREATgermany Study Team
Published: December 2021

Background

TREATgermany, a registry for patients with moderate to severe atopic dermatitis (AD), established an additional questionnaire in spring 2020 to investigate the effects of the coronavirus pandemic on the daily life of patients with AD.

Material and Methods

A questionnaire was used to analyze general information regarding a patient’s experience of the coronavirus pandemic and, using the Inventory of Life‐Changing Events, the resulting personal burden. To analyze possible associations between disease severity (EASI score, oSCORAD, IGA, PGA, POEM), quality of life (DLQI) and personal burden, t‐tests, analyses of variance and correlations were evaluated, controlled for sex and age.

Results

58 % (n = 233) of the included 400 registry patients reported high burden scores caused by the coronavirus pandemic, regardless of an actual infection. Men showed significantly higher burden scores than women, and younger than older respondents (both P = 0.03). There were no differences in burden scores related to the physician’s assessment of disease severity. However, patients with higher quality of life impairments and higher disease severity perceived the burden of the coronavirus pandemic as less severe (DLQI P = 0.019, PGA P = 0.044).

Conclusions

Our data show that registry patients considered the coronavirus pandemic as a life‐changing event and perceived the burden differently. This should be taken into account in the treatment of patients with moderate to severe AD as well as in further studies.
Characterization of the effects on pruritus by novel treatments for atopic dermatitis
Authors: Bonnekoh Hanna , Butze Monique , Metz Martin
Published: December 2021

Chronic pruritus is a common and debilitating symptom in patients with atopic dermatitis and contributes to impairment of quality of life. Effective treatment of pruritus should therefore be one of the main treatment goals in patients with atopic dermatitis. Pathophysiologically, the histamine‐independent pruritogens interleukin‐31, interleukin‐13, and interleukin‐4, have been shown to play a major role in atopic dermatitis. All three cytokines can mediate chronic pruritus via Janus kinase 1/2 signaling pathways. Novel drugs target these pathways and have shown rapid and sustained reduction of pruritus in patients with atopic dermatitis in clinical use and in phase II and III clinical trials. Here we summarize the published data on the effects of these drugs on itch parameters such as overall reduction in pruritus intensity and percent of patients with atopic dermatitis achieving a relevant reduction in itch. Each of the novel drugs shows very good effects on pruritus. These data offer hope for an even better and possibly more specific treatment of pruritus in patients with atopic dermatitis in the future. In addition, the different pharmacological approaches give us the chance to learn more about the pathophysiology of pruritus in atopic dermatitis.
A mosaic of induced and non‐induced branches promotes variation in leaf traits, predation and insect herbivore assemblages in canopy trees
Authors: Volf Martin , Volfová Tereza , Seifert Carlo L. , Ludwig Antonia , Engelmann Rolf A. , Jorge Leonardo Ré , Richter Ronny , Schedl Andreas , Weinhold Alexander , Wirth Christian , van Dam Nicole M.
Published: December 2021

Forest canopies are complex and highly diverse environments. Their diversity is affected by pronounced gradients in abiotic and biotic conditions, including variation in leaf chemistry. We hypothesised that branch‐localised defence induction and vertical stratification in mature oaks constitute sources of chemical variation that extend across trophic levels. To test this, we combined manipulation of plant defences, predation monitoring, food‐choice trials with herbivores and sampling of herbivore assemblages. Both induction and vertical stratification affected branch chemistry, but the effect of induction was stronger. Induction increased predation in the canopy and reduced herbivory in bioassays. The effects of increased predation affected herbivore assemblages by decreasing their abundance, and indirectly, their richness. In turn, we show that there are multiple factors contributing to variation across canopies. Branch‐localised induction, variation between tree individuals and predation may be the ones with particularly strong effects on diverse assemblages of insects in temperate forests.
Recreational fishers contribute to path formation in subalpine vegetation
Authors: Adedokun Busola Christianah , Kirkpatrick James Barrie , McHenry Melinda Therese
Published: December 2021

The role of recreational fishers forming paths (routes of concentrated passage characterised by short vegetation or ground indentation) as they gain access to wilderness waterbodies has not been well documented in Australia. Recreational use for trout and tournament fly fishing has increased in the Central Plateau of Tasmania; therefore, it is important to determine the human contribution to path formation and its potential consequences for biodiversity conservation in this area of high conservation value. We predicted that paths parallel to waterbodies experienced more human traffic than orthogonal paths. Across 36 sites at different distances from roads, a parallel and orthogonal path to lakeshore were sampled using eight, 1 × 1 m quadrats randomly located along each path within a 10 × 10‐m plot. Recorded for each quadrat were the path widths, height difference between centre of paths and adjacent vegetation (path depth), vegetation types on and adjacent to paths, Bennetts Wallaby (Notamacropus rufogriseus) and Wombat (Vombatus ursinus) faecal numbers. General linear models indicated that path width was greater on parallel than orthogonal paths and declined with distance from roads. Path depth, however, was not affected by distance from roads but was shallower than orthogonal paths. Separate models used to test the potential effects of edge vegetation type, or the covariates Wallaby and Wombat scats did not have significant effects on‐path variables. Paths encircling or orthogonal to Central Plateau lakes appear different floristically to adjacent vegetation communities, nonetheless. Heath and tussock grassland were largely absent from paths, whereas grassland and herbfield communities were infrequently observed off paths. Herbfield and grassland are rarer communities than heath and tussock grassland, which, in the context of a lack of exposure to erosion, suggests a conservation benefit of paths at present usage levels. The human contribution to parallel path conditions is likely to be high, given the results from the study, so monitoring of change is desirable, especially if predicted increasing human activity eventuates in this area.
Atrial fibrillatory rate as predictor of recurrence of atrial fibrillation in horses treated medically or with electrical cardioversion
Authors: Buhl Rikke , Hesselkilde Eva M. , Carstensen Helena , Hopster‐Iversen Charlotte , van Loon Gunther , Decloedt Annelies , Van Steenkiste Glenn , Marr Celia M. , Reef Virginia B. , Schwarzwald Colin C. , Mitchell Katharyn J. , Nostell Katarina , Nogradi Nora , Nielsen Søren S. , Carlson Jonas , Platonov Pyotr G.
Published: December 2021

Background

The recurrence rate of atrial fibrillation (AF) in horses after cardioversion to sinus rhythm (SR) is relatively high. Atrial fibrillatory rate (AFR) derived from surface ECG is considered a biomarker for electrical remodelling and could potentially be used for the prediction of successful AF cardioversion and AF recurrence.

Objectives

Evaluate if AFR was associated with successful treatment and could predict AF recurrence in horses.

Study design

Retrospective multicentre study.

Methods

Electrocardiograms (ECG) from horses with persistent AF admitted for cardioversion with either medical treatment (quinidine) or transvenous electrical cardioversion (TVEC) were included. Bipolar surface ECG recordings were analysed by spatiotemporal cancellation of QRST complexes and calculation of AFR from the remaining atrial signal. Kaplan‐Meier survival curve and Cox regression analyses were performed to assess the relationship between AFR and the risk of AF recurrence.

Results

Of the 195 horses included, 74 received quinidine treatment and 121 were treated with TVEC. Ten horses did not cardiovert to SR after quinidine treatment and AFR was higher in these, compared with the horses that successfully cardioverted to SR (median [interquartile range]), (383 [367‐422] vs 351 [332‐389] fibrillations per minute (fpm), P < .01). Within the first 180 days following AF cardioversion, 12% of the quinidine and 34% of TVEC horses had AF recurrence. For the horses successfully cardioverted with TVEC, AFR above 380 fpm was significantly associated with AF recurrence (hazard ratio = 2.4, 95% confidence interval 1.2‐4.8, P = .01).

Main limitations

The treatment groups were different and not randomly allocated, therefore the two treatments cannot be compared. Medical records and the follow‐up strategy varied between the centres.

Conclusions

High AFR is associated with failure of quinidine cardioversion and AF recurrence after successful TVEC. As a noninvasive marker that can be retrieved from surface ECG, AFR can be clinically useful in predicting the probability of responding to quinidine treatment as well as maintaining SR after electrical cardioversion.
Expert system for detection of congestive heart failure using optimal wavelet and heart rate variability signals for wireless cloud‐based environment
Authors: Sharma Manish , Patel Sohamkumar , Acharya U. Rajendra
Published: December 2021

Congestive heart failure (CHF) is a cardiac disorder caused due to inefficient pumping of the heart, which leads to insufficient blood flow to the various parts of the body. The electrocardiogram (ECG) is widely used for the detection of heart diseases. However, it is prone to noise resulting in the detection of P, Q, R, S, and T waves ambiguous and erroneous. The heart rate variability (HRV) is considered to be a good indicator of various cardiac abnormalities. Hence, HRV is preferred. HRV can depict the magnitude of pumping of the heart in the RR interval signals accurately. This work proposes a method to automatically identify CHF using two‐band stopband energy (SBE) optimized orthogonal wavelet filter bank with HRV signals. In the proposed method, we have segmented the HRV data into lengths of 500 and 2000 samples. The HRV signals are decomposed into six sub‐bands, and the wavelet coefficients obtained are used for the extraction of fuzzy entropy (FE) and log energy (LE) features. The extracted features are utilized to classify HRV signals into control and CHF‐affected patients using support vector machine (SVM), bagged tree, complex tree, k‐nearest neighbour (KNN), and linear discriminant classifiers. The SVM performed better than other classifiers yielding the classification accuracy and maximum classification accuracy of 99.30% with (2000 samples) using cubic SVM (CSVM). The 10‐fold cross‐validation method is employed during classification to reduce the over‐fitting phenomenon (Sharma, Dhiman, & Acharya, 2021). It appears that the proposed optimal wavelet‐based automated system can identify CHF accurately using HRV signals. Hence, the model may be applied in clinical usage during an emergency employing a cloud‐based wireless system after testing the developed model with more data.
Clinical pharmacology: Current innovations and future challenges
Authors: Cracowski Jean‐Luc , Hulot Jean‐Sébastien , Laporte Silvy , Charvériat Mathieu , Roustit Matthieu , Deplanque Dominique , Girodet Pierre‐Olivier ,   the French Society of Pharmacology and Therapeutics (SFPT)
Published: December 2021

Clinical pharmacology is the study of drugs in humans, from first‐in‐human studies to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and benefit–risk ratio assessment in large populations. The objective of this review is to present the recent innovations that may revolutionize the development of drugs in the future. On behalf of the French Society of Pharmacology and Therapeutics, we provide recommendations to address those future challenges in clinical pharmacology. Whatever the future will be, robust preliminary data on drug mechanism of action and rigorous study design will remain crucial prior to the start of pharmacological studies in human. At the present time, RCTs remain the gold standard to evaluate the efficacy of human drugs, although alternative designs (pragmatic trials, platform trials, etc.) are emerging. Innovations in healthy volunteers' studies and the contribution of new technologies such as artificial intelligence, machine learning, and internet‐based trials have the potential to improve drug development. In the field of precision medicine, new disease phenotypes and endotypes will probably help to identify new pharmacological targets, responders to therapies, and patients at risk for drug adverse events. In such a moving landscape, the development of translational research through academic and private partnership, transparent sharing of clinical trial data and enhanced interactions between drug experts, patients, and the general public are priority areas for action.
Do mobile consumers homogenize the distribution of resources in stream food webs? A test with overlapping fish and mussel aggregations
Authors: Vaughn Caryn C. , Parr Thomas B. , DuBose Traci P. , Gates Kiza K. , Hopper Garrett W. , Gido Keith B.
Published: December 2021

In streams, unionoid mussels and fish form aggregations that exert bottom‐up and top‐down effects on food webs, but the magnitude and spatial extent of their effects are controlled by species traits. Sedentary mussels live burrowed in the sediment in patchily distributed dense aggregations (mussel beds) where they filter seston and provide a local, relatively constant nutrient subsidy. In contrast, fish move on and off mussel beds, and thus comprise a transient nutrient subsidy.

We asked how overlap between fish and mussels influences nutrient recycling and resource distribution in streams. We conducted an 8‐week study in experimental streams where we created mussel beds (comprised of two species, Actinonaias ligamentina and Amblema plicata), manipulated the occurrence of a grazing minnow (Campostoma anomalum), and tracked nutrient (nitrogen and phosphorus) and resource (algae, detritus, and chironomids) abundance up and downstream of the mussel beds.

In general, neither consumer had strong effects on the concentration or spatial distribution of nutrients. Water turnover time in our experimental streams may have diluted fish and mussel nutrient excretion effects, making it difficult to detect spatial patterns during a given sampling period.

Fish controlled the abundance and productivity of algae. In treatments without fish, large mats of filamentous algae formed early in the experiment. These algae senesced, decomposed, and were not replaced. When fish were present, algae consisted of attached biofilms with consistent biomass and spatial distribution over time.

Although previous work has shown that mussels can have strong, seasonal bottom‐up effects on both primary and secondary production, our results suggested that adding grazing mobile fishes, led to a more consistent and homogenous supply of algal resources. Because mussels rarely occur in the absence of fish, considering their combined influence on ecosystem dynamics is likely to be important.
Effects of air pollution on regional innovation and the mediator role of health: Evidence from China
Authors: Zhu Fubiao , Zhuang Delin , Jin Shengwu , Gao Lingling , Chen Rui
Published: December 2021

Environmental regulation has attracted a great deal of attention between air pollution and innovation, but rarely individual perspective. This study attempts to reveal the impact of air pollution on regional innovation through individual health. The methodology applies dynamic panel model and system GMM estimation dealing with endogeneity issue and using China’s provincial panel data from 1998 to 2018. Empirical analysis shows that air pollution has significant negative effects on regional innovation. With every 1% increase in PM2.5concentration, patent applications decrease by 0.186%. Correction and replacement of the dependent variable, classifying samples, and using subsamples all show that the results are robust. Parallel multiple mediator model is adopted to analyze the influence mechanism. It can be found that the physical and mental health of R&D personnel plays a significant mediator role. It can be constructive to regional innovation to reduce air pollution while maintaining innovation capital investment; and improve R&D personnel health while reducing their work pressure.
‘I Can’t Keep Up!’: an update on advances in soft tissue pathology occurring after the publication of the 2020 World Health Organization classification of soft tissue and bone tumours
Authors: Folpe Andrew L
Published: December 2021

Progress in our understanding of the pathogenesis and diagnosis of soft tissue neoplasia is exceptionally rapid. Although the most recent World Health Organization classification of soft tissue tumours contains many new entities and refinements of older ones, even this comprehensive document is by now incomplete or in need of modification. This review will attempt to summarise the developments in soft tissue pathology that have occurred since 2020, emphasising lesions for which morphology and genetics intersect in a complementary fashion. Novel entities discussed include KMT2A‐rearranged sarcoma, PRRX::NCOAx fibroblastic tumours, EWSR1::PATZ1 sarcomas, BRAF‐altered infantile fibrosarcoma‐like lesions, NUTM1‐rearranged colorectal sarcomas, and a variety of interesting giant cell‐rich and matrix‐producing lesions. In addition, recently described mimics of atypical lipomatous tumour/well‐differentiated liposarcoma are covered, as is a wholly new, morphologically defined and genetically confirmed entity, pseudoendocrine sarcoma. Finally, exciting new developments in the use of immunohistochemistry as a surrogate for molecular genetic techniques are discussed.
What’s new in adipocytic neoplasia?
Authors: Thway Khin
Published: December 2021

Adipocytic tumours are among the most common mesenchymal neoplasms, and constitute a clinically, biologically and pathologically diverse group. Their wide histological spectrum and frequent morphological overlap have made classification and diagnosis challenging, with accurate classification being critical because of the considerable differences in prognosis and management between morphologically overlapping neoplasms. Ongoing advances in molecular genetics have aided significantly to our understanding of these neoplasms, with continuing evolution in classification. This review summarises the new developments in benign and malignant adipocytic neoplasms, with discussion of new entities and genetic findings, updates on the clinical and morphological spectrum, and the use of diagnostic immunohistochemistry and molecular markers in the differential diagnosis.
Cutaneous B cell lymphomas: standards in diagnostic and clinical work‐up. Hints, pitfalls and recent advances
Authors: Oschlies Ilske , Wehkamp Ulrike
Published: December 2021

This review focuses upon the pragmatic diagnostic approach of suspicious B cell infiltrations in the skin and lists the necessary histopathological and molecular tools for a thorough work‐up. We start with the description of different histopathological patterns of cutaneous B cell infiltrations and recommend pattern‐dependent immunohistochemical staining algorithms for further differential diagnosis. A summarised description of the current World Health Organisation (WHO) subtypes of primary cutaneous B cell lymphomas highlighting their most relevant clinical, histopathological and molecular features is included. Differential diagnostic clues towards secondary infiltrations by systemic B cell lymphomas, B cell‐rich T cell lymphoproliferative disorders and pseudolymphomas are provided. Furthermore, the most important pitfalls also elaborating on rare differential diagnoses are highlighted with helpful hints to solve arising diagnostic difficulties. The clinical work‐up and the staging examinations depending on the type of B cell infiltrate are relevant for patient care and a short overview of the main diagnostic standards is given.
Characterization of photoproducts and global ecotoxicity of chlorphenesin: A preservative used in skin care products
Authors: Ben Ouaghrem Manel , de Vaugelade Segolene , Bourcier Sophie , Genty Christophe , Pirnay Stephane , Bouchonnet Stephane
Published: December 2021

Photolysis experiments of chlorphenesin, used as a preservative in cosmetic products, were performed in aqueous solution and on a cream used in cosmetics. Three by‐products resulting from the direct UV‐visible photodegradation of chlorphenesin were characterized by chromatography (gas and liquid) coupled with tandem mass spectrometry (GC‐MS/MS and LC‐HR MS/MS) and found in both solutions. In vitro tests on Vibrio fischeri bacteria showed that the overall ecotoxicity of chlorphenesin increased with increasing irradiation time in both samples. In silico QSAR (Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship) tests were performed using T.E.S.T. (Toxicity Estimation Software Tool). Among the degradation compounds identified, 4‐chlorophenol must contribute to the increased ecotoxicity of the photolyzed solution since the in silico LC50 estimated for all tests performed are always lower than those obtained for chlorphenesin.
Immune and inflammation‐related gene polymorphisms and susceptibility to tuberculosis in Southern Xinjiang population: A case‐control analysis
Authors: Chen Yahao , Zeng Yanhua , Wang Jialu , Meng Cunren
Published: December 2021

Genetic and immune factors play an important role in tuberculosis. Under different ethnicities and genetic backgrounds, different immune and inflammation‐related gene polymorphisms may confer different susceptibility to tuberculosis. This study investigated the relationship between immune and inflammation‐related gene polymorphism and susceptibility to tuberculosis in Xinjiang Uyghur population, China. In this case‐control study, we enrolled 507 pulmonary tuberculosis patients and 454 healthy controls from Southern Xinjiang. single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping was performed. The 12 SNPs of nine immune and inflammation‐related genes (including TNF rs361525, IL6 rs2066992 and rs1524107, IL17A rs3748067, IL17F rs763780, VDR rs731236, rs2228570 and rs1544410, IFNGR1 rs1327474, P2RX7 rs3751143, CTAGE1 rs4331426 and Toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4) rs4986790) and their relationship with tuberculosis were evaluated. The T allele and TT genotype of IL‐6 rs2066992 and rs1524107 increased the risk of active tuberculosis. The C allele of IFNGR1 rs1327474 was related to the reduced risk of tuberculosis in the Xinjiang Uyghur population. The G allele and AG/GG genotypes of TLR4 rs4986790 were associated with an increased risk of tuberculosis (p < .05). Furthermore, haplotype analysis found that the haplotype TT of interleukin (IL)‐6 was a risk factor, whereas the CG type was a protective factor for active tuberculosis in the Xinjiang Uyghur population. There were three immune and inflammation‐related genes (IL‐6, IFNGR1 and TLR4) and a total of four SNPs (rs2066992, rs1524107, rs1327474 and rs4986790) related to the susceptibility of the Uyghur population to tuberculosis. Our findings may provide evidence for further understanding the mechanism of tuberculosis susceptibility in the Xinjiang Uyghur population.
A new path to training transfer: Transformational trainers and psychologically empowered training participants
Authors: Creon Laura Elisabeth , Schermuly Carsten Christoph
Published: December 2021

Successful training transfer is necessary for employees to adapt to this fast‐changing working world. In this study, we investigate whether transformational trainer behaviour can inspire training participants to change their self‐concept during training and whether this is related to increased training transfer. Following the self‐concept based theory, we examine the relationship between transformational trainer behaviour and training transfer, mediated by psychological empowerment. Moreover, we test a cross‐level interaction such that the indirect effect varies based on the number of participants per training group. We conducted a two‐wave study with 373 training participants in 58 training groups. Multilevel moderated mediation analysis showed that the training participants’ psychological empowerment mediated the positive relationship between transformational trainer behaviour and training transfer two months later. However, this indirect effect was not moderated by the number of participants per group. These results add to the discourse on the importance of trainers for training transfer and offer a new perspective on training as changing the participants’ self‐concept.
New‐onset autoimmune phenomena post‐COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Chen Yue , Xu Zhiwei , Wang Peng , Li Xiao‐Mei , Shuai Zong‐Wen , Ye Dong‐Qing , Pan Hai‐Feng
Published: December 2021

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic caused by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) has led to an unprecedented setback for global economy and health. Vaccination is one of the most effective interventions to substantially reduce severe disease and death due to SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. Vaccination programmes are being rolled out globally, but most of these vaccines have been approved without extensive studies on their side‐effects and efficacy. Recently, new‐onset autoimmune phenomena after COVID‐19 vaccination have been reported increasingly (e.g. immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia, autoimmune liver diseases, Guillain–Barré syndrome, IgA nephropathy, rheumatoid arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus). Molecular mimicry, the production of particular autoantibodies and the role of certain vaccine adjuvants seem to be substantial contributors to autoimmune phenomena. However, whether the association between COVID‐19 vaccine and autoimmune manifestations is coincidental or causal remains to be elucidated. Here, we summarize the emerging evidence about autoimmune manifestations occurring in response to certain COVID‐19 vaccines. Although information pertaining to the risk of autoimmune disease as a consequence of vaccination is controversial, we merely propose our current understanding of autoimmune manifestations associated with COVID‐19 vaccine. In fact, we do not aim to disavow the overwhelming benefits of mass COVID‐19 vaccination in preventing COVID‐19 morbidity and mortality. These reports could help guide clinical assessment and management of autoimmune manifestations after COVID‐19 vaccination.
The antimicrobial efficacy of plasma-activated water against Listeria and E. coli is modulated by reactor design and water composition
Authors: Rothwell Joanna G. , Alam David , Carter Dee A. , Soltani Behdad , McConchie Robyn , Zhou Renwu , Cullen Patrick J. , Mai-Prochnow Anne
Published: December 2021

Aims

This study aimed to compare the efficacy of plasma-activated water (PAW) generated by two novel plasma reactors against pathogenic foodborne illness organisms.

Methods and results

The antimicrobial efficacy of PAW produced by a bubble spark discharge (BSD) reactor and a dielectric barrier discharge-diffuser (DBDD) reactor operating at atmospheric conditions with air, multiple discharge frequencies and Milli-Q and tap water, was investigated with model organisms Listeria innocua and Escherichia coli in situ. Optimal conditions were subsequently employed for pathogenic bacteria Listeria monocytogenes, E. coli and Salmonella enterica. DBDD-PAW reduced more than 6-log of bacteria within 1 min. The BSD-PAW, while attaining high log reduction, was less effective. Analysis of physicochemical properties revealed that BSD-PAW had a greater variety of reactive species than DBDD-PAW. Scavenger assays designed to specifically sequester reactive species demonstrated a critical role of superoxide, particularly in DBDD-PAW.

Conclusions

DBDD-PAW demonstrated rapid antimicrobial activity against pathogenic bacteria, with superoxide the critical reactive species.

Significance and impact of study

This study demonstrates the potential of DBDD-PAW produced using tap water and air as a feasible and cost-effective option for antimicrobial applications, including food safety.