bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hilly environment and frequency of going out‐of‐home among older adults: Examining moderating effect of driving status
Authors: Harada Kazuhiro , Masumoto Kouhei , Kikumasa Yuta , Okada Shuichi
Published: October 2022

Aim

The health benefits of “going out‐of‐home” frequently among older adults are well known. A hilly environment would inhibit this habit. This study examined (i) longitudinal associations between a hilly environment and the frequency of going out‐of‐home, and (ii) the moderating effect of driving status on their association among older adults.

Methods

This study involved a longitudinal study design. Data on 856 older adults in Nada Ward, Kobe, Japan, was obtained from a three‐wave questionnaire survey (Wave 1: December 2017 to January 2018; Wave 2: after 1 year; Wave 3: after 3 years). In each survey, the frequency of going out‐of‐home time was measured. The average land slope within 500 m network buffers of each participant's home was calculated as the index of the hilly environment. Driving status was also measured.

Results

The latent growth model revealed that while a higher value of average land slope was not significantly associated with changes in the frequency of going out‐of‐home over time, it was significantly associated with a lower frequency of going out‐of‐home at the initial level. The interaction term in the latent growth model showed that driving status did not moderate the associations of the average land slope with the initial level of, and changes in, the frequency of going out‐of‐home.

Conclusions

Although it remains unclear whether a hilly environment would accelerate a decline in the frequency of going out‐of‐home over time, this study found that older adults living in a hilly environment were less likely to leave their homes. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 961–967.
Zavegepant nasal spray for the acute treatment of migraine: A Phase 2/3 double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled, dose‐ranging trial
Authors: Croop Robert , Madonia Jennifer , Stock David A. , Thiry Alexandra , Forshaw Micaela , Murphy Abigail , Coric Vladimir , Lipton Richard B.
Published: October 2022

Objective

Evaluate the efficacy, safety, and tolerability of zavegepant nasal spray in the acute treatment of migraine.

Background

Calcitonin gene‐related peptide‐targeting agents are a novel class of therapeutics for migraine, but none are currently available as a nonoral option for acute treatment. Zavegepant, a high‐affinity, selective, and structurally unique calcitonin gene‐related peptide‐receptor antagonist in late‐stage development, is formulated as a nasal spray for the acute treatment of migraine.

Methods

This randomized, dose‐ranging, placebo‐controlled, Phase 2/3 trial in adults aged ≥18 years with migraine (NCT03872453) was conducted at US study sites. Participants were randomized by an interactive web response system and treated a single attack of moderate to severe pain intensity with zavegepant nasal spray 5, 10, 20 mg, or placebo. Coprimary efficacy endpoints were pain freedom and freedom from the most bothersome symptom at 2 h postdose.

Results

Of the 1673 participants aged 18 to 79 years who were randomized, 1588 were treated with study medication, and 1581 (mean age 40.8 years, 85.5% female) were analyzed for efficacy: zavegepant 5 mg (n = 387), 10 mg (n = 391), 20 mg (n = 402), and placebo (n = 401). Zavegepant 10 and 20 mg were more effective than placebo on the coprimary endpoints of pain freedom at 2 h postdose (placebo: 15.5% [98.3% confidence interval (CI), 11.1, 19.8]; 10 mg: 22.5% [98.3% CI, 17.5, 27.6; p = 0.0113]; 20 mg: 23.1% [98.3% CI, 18.1, 28.2; p = 0.0055]) and freedom from the most bothersome symptom at 2 h postdose (placebo: 33.7% [98.3% CI, 28.0, 39.3]; 10 mg: 41.9% [98.3% CI, 36.0, 47.9; p = 0.0155]; 20 mg: 42.5% [98.3% CI, 36.6, 48.4; p = 0.0094]). Findings for the 5 mg dose were not significant. The most common treatment‐emergent adverse events with zavegepant 10 and 20 mg and placebo were dysgeusia (13.5% to 16.1% vs. 3.5%), nausea (2.7% to 4.1% vs. 0.5%), and nasal discomfort (1.3% to 5.2% vs. 0.2%). Most adverse events were mild or moderate and resolved without treatment. There was no signal of hepatotoxicity.

Conclusion

Zavegepant nasal spray, in single doses of 10 or 20 mg, was effective for the acute treatment of migraine, with a favorable safety profile. Additional research is needed to confirm its potential as a nonoral medication for the acute treatment of migraine.
Frailty and frailty screening: A qualitative study to elicit perspectives of people living with HIV and their healthcare professionals
Authors: St Clair‐Sullivan Natalie , Simmons Kiersten , Harding Richard , Levett Thomas , Maddocks Matthew , Roberts Jonathan , Trotman Daniel , Yi Deokhee , Vera Jaime H. , Bristowe Katherine
Published: October 2022

Objectives

People living with HIV are an ageing population with an increasing prevalence of frailty. Management of frailty requires assessment, communication and information sharing with patients. However, evidence regarding the meaning of frailty for this population, and the acceptability of frailty screening, is limited. This study aimed to explore the perceptions of older people living with HIV and HIV professionals towards frailty and routine screening for frailty.

Methods

Data collection consisted of in‐depth individual qualitative interviews with older people living with HIV and focus groups with HIV professionals purposively sampled from outpatient HIV clinics in London and Brighton, UK. Verbatim pseudonymised transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis supported by NVivo.

Results

A total of 45 people living with HIV were interviewed, and 12 HIV professionals participated in two focus groups. Frailty was described as a series of losses around mobility, social inclusion, independence and mental acuity, which could happen at any age. Regarding language, for people living with HIV, explicitly using the word frail was acceptable during screening when approached sensitively and alongside provision of information and support to slow the progression of frailty. However, HIV professionals described concerns about using the word frail for fear of causing distress or offence.

Conclusion

Professionals described frailty in terms of functional deficits, whereas people living with HIV described a loss of personhood. Although there is a clear desire among people living with HIV to be informed of their frailty status, approaching conversations about frailty with understanding and compassion is vital. To gain the most from the screening, it is essential that frailty status is shared alongside a clear plan of actionable steps in their care.
Ad avoidance in the digital context: A systematic literature review and research agenda
Authors: Çelik Fatih , Çam Mehmet Safa , Koseoglu Mehmet Ali
Published: October 2022

The recent growth in digital marketing investments and revenues has attracted the attention of both marketing practitioners and scholars. However, this growth has dramatically increased users' exposure to ad messages, encouraging consumers to avoid them. Therefore, ad avoidance has become a major problem for marketing practitioners. Although researchers have become much more interested in this subject over the past two decades, the body of knowledge on ad avoidance in the digital environment remains fragmented due to the lack of a comprehensive review. Therefore, a holistic overview study is needed that focuses on the big picture and can help researchers to understand the literature comprehensively. This study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the topic using a systematic literature review approach on digital ad avoidance. To this end, we provide an in‐depth content analysis of 56 relevant articles published in 31 peer‐reviewed scientific journals up to December 31, 2021. Based on a theories, contexts, characteristics, and methods (TCCM) framework, the study results shed light on ‘what do we know, how do we know, and where should research about digital ad avoidance research be heading?’ Additionally, drawing on the content analysis, we have presented an integrative framework that considers antecedents, outcomes, mediators, and moderators, which can help develop the field systematically and guide future research. By doing so, we think this review meets the need to give an overview of the state‐of‐the‐art scientific body of knowledge on digital ad avoidance and makes important and solid contributions to the literature, practical implications, and future research directions based on the findings.
When language‐general and language‐specific processes are in conflict: The case of sub‐syllabic word segmentation in toddlers
Authors: Babineau Mireille , Emond Emeryse , Shi Rushen
Published: October 2022

Infants use statistics‐based word segmentation strategies from the preverbal stage. Statistical segmentation is, however, constrained by the Onset Bias, a language‐universal principle that disfavors segmentation that harms syllable integrity. Children eventually learn language‐specific exceptions to this principle. For instance, sub‐syllabic parsing occurs for vowel‐initial words in French liaison contexts, that is, when a word's final consonant surfaces as the following word's syllabic onset (e.g., /n/ in un /n/éléphant). In past research, French‐learning 24‐month‐olds succeeded in parsing a vowel‐initial pseudo‐word surfacing with variable liaison consonants. This study further investigated infants' liaison representation, its potential impacts on parsing, and its interaction with the Onset Bias. In Experiments 1 and 2, French‐learning 24‐month‐olds were familiarized with pseudo‐words with variable liaison‐like versus nonliaison‐like onset consonants, preceded by words that cannot trigger those onsets (e.g., un zonche; un gonche). We found no mis‐segmentation as vowel‐initial and successful segmentation as consonant‐initial. In Experiment 3, when the preceding words could trigger a liaison consonant that matched the onset of the following word (e.g., un nonche), infants showed a vowel‐initial mis‐interpretation, against the Onset Bias, revealing an effect of liaison knowledge. These results demonstrate that toddlers balance their use of language‐general principles/strategies and language‐specific knowledge during early acquisition.
Coping in the time of COVID‐19: Mindsets and the stories we tell
Authors: Becker Whitney , Burnette Jeni L. , Hoyt Crystal L.
Published: October 2022

Across two studies (N = 803), we explored how meaning‐making systems (i.e., mindsets and narrative identity) are related to each other as well as to coping in the wake of challenges faced during the COVID‐19 pandemic. In Study 1, we find that struggle‐is‐enhancing, relative to struggle‐is‐debilitating, mindsets predicted stories defined by elements of personal control with opportunities for growth (agency) and an emphasis on the positive, rather than on the suffering (redemptive). Stronger enhancing mindsets and agentic as well as redemptive narratives predicted more adaptive coping, including less negative affect, less avoidance, and positive expectations for future success. In Study 2, we replicated these fundamental findings and explored relations with wellbeing. Struggle‐is‐enhancing, relative to debilitating, mindsets related to greater wellbeing as did agency and redemptive stories. Overall, creating meaning from struggle, crafting tales with more positive themes, and using active coping show promise for future work focused on enhancing social, emotional, and psychological wellbeing.
Relationship between inbreeding and milk production traits in two Italian dairy sheep breeds
Authors: Cesarani Alberto , Mastrangelo Salvatore , Congiu Michele , Portolano Baldassare , Gaspa Giustino , Tolone Marco , Macciotta Nicolò P. P.
Published: October 2022

The effects of inbreeding in livestock species breeds have been well documented and they have a negative impact on profitability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the levels of inbreeding in Sarda (SAR,n = 785) and Valle del Belice (VdB,n = 473) dairy sheep breeds and their impact on milk production traits. Two inbreeding coefficients (F) were estimated: using pedigree (FPED), or runs of homozygosity (ROH;FROH) at different minimum ROH lengths and different ROH classes. After the quality control, 38,779 single nucleotide polymorphisms remained for further analyses. A mixed‐linear model was used to evaluate the impact of inbreeding coefficients on production traits within each breed. VdB showed higher inbreeding coefficients compared to SAR, with both breeds showing lower estimates as the minimum ROH length increased. Significant inbreeding depression was found only for milk yield, with a loss of around 7 g/day (for SAR) and 9 g/day (VdB) for a 1% increase ofFROH. The present study confirms how the use of genomic information can be used to manage intra‐breed diversity and to calculate the effects of inbreeding on phenotypic traits.
Effects of arginine vasopressin on the transcriptome of prefrontal cortex in autistic rat model
Authors: Zhou Bo , Yan Xuehui , Yang Liu , Zheng Xiaoli , Chen Yunhua , Liu Yibu , Ren Yibing , Peng Jingang , Zhang Yi , Huang Jiayu , Tang Lei , Wen Min
Published: October 2022

Our previous studies have also demonstrated that AVP can significantly improve social interaction disorders and stereotypical behaviours in rats with VPA‐induced autism model. To further explore the mechanisms of action of AVP, we compared the PFC transcriptome changes before and after AVP treatment in VPA‐induced autism rat model. The autism model was induced by intraperitoneally injected with VPA at embryonic day 12.5 and randomly assigned to two groups: the VPA‐induced autism model group and the AVP treatment group. The AVP treatment group were treated with intranasal AVP at postnatal day 21 and for 3 weeks. The gene expression levels and function changes on the prefrontal cortex were measured by RNA‐seq and bioinformatics analysis at PND42 and the mRNA expression levels of synaptic and myelin development related genes were validated by qPCR. Our results confirmed that AVP could significantly improve synaptic and axon dysplasia and promote oligodendrocyte development in the prefrontal cortex in VPA‐induced autism models by regulating multiple signalling pathways.
Effects of calcium hydroxide intracanal medicament on push‐out bond strength of endodontic sealers: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Alhajj Mohammed Nasser , Daud Fadhilah , Al‐Maweri Sadeq Ali , Johari Yanti , Ab‐Ghani Zuryati , Jaafar Mariatti , Naito Yoshihito , Prananingrum Widyasri , Ariffin Zaihan
Published: October 2022

Objective

To investigate the effect of calcium hydroxide intracanal medicament on the push‐out bond strength of resin‐based and calcium silicate‐based endodontic sealers.

Methods

A comprehensive search of was conducted for all relevant in‐vitro studies. All randomized controlled in‐vitro studies that evaluated the effect of calcium hydroxide on the push‐out bond strength of resin‐based or calcium silicate‐based endodontic sealers were assessed. The variables of interest were extracted, and the risk of the included studies was evaluated. The standardized mean difference was calculated and the significance level was set at p value <0.05.

Results

A total of 26 studies were eligible for analysis. There were 45 independent comparison groups and 1009 recruited teeth. The pooled data showed no significant difference in push‐out bond strength between calcium hydroxide and control group in the resin‐based group (SMD = 0.03; 95% CI = −0.55, 0.60; p = 0.93), and calcium silicate‐based group (SMD = 0.02; 95% CI = −0.31, 0.35; p = 0.90). Most of the studies (21 out of 26) were at medium risk of bias and five studies showed a low risk of bias.

Conclusion

The available evidence suggests that calcium hydroxide used as intracanal medication does not influence the push‐out bond strength of the resin‐ and calcium silicate‐based endodontic sealers.

Clinical significance

The results of this meta‐analysis suggest that calcium hydroxide used as intracanal medication does not influence the push‐out bond strength of resin‐based and calcium silicate‐based endodontic sealers.
Rethinking of positive effects of eggs on hair in East Asia
Authors: Jung Jina , Kwon Ki Han
Published: October 2022

Background

Our bodies are a collection of nutrients. For healthy body production and activities, good nutrients must be balanced and supplied steadily. However, as modern people eat more irregular meals and fast food, they are running out of nutrients needed by the human body. As a result, research was conducted on the effect of eggs with good cost‐effectiveness on the human body and hair.

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to review the literature investigated to convey knowledge of the positive nutrients of modern people's nutrition and eggs.

Methods

These data were reviewed to identify agreement between each section and the unique guiding area. Regarding the survey criteria, it was finally decided that 31 papers were suitable for evaluating the purpose of research as follows. PRISMA flowcharts allow you to determine the number of records identified, included, and excluded.

Results

Eggs are considered the most cost‐effective foods that deliver protein, biotin, choline, and vitamin A to the world, and eggs that can be easily consumed are known as nutritional foods because they contain protein, lipids, minerals, and embryonic development growth factors. It is widely consumed as a food that can be eaten by anyone, including the elderly and children.

Conclusions

In this study, eggs can be used as important data for modern people by delivering nutrients to the human body and hair of modern people and understanding positive nutrients.
Soybean oligosaccharides combined with probiotics reduce faecal odour compound content by improving intestinal microbiota in pigs
Authors: Du Lei , Qiu Xiaoyu , Zhu Siyuan , Liu Jingbo , Wang Jing , Wang Qi , Liu Zuohua , Yang Feiyun , Yun Tingting , Qi Renli
Published: October 2022

As a potential prebiotic, soybean oligosaccharides (SBOS) can improve animal health by modulating gut microbiota. The aim of this study was to investigate the different effects of supplementing SBOS and supplementing SBOS plus probiotic on the growth and health of pigs. Three groups of growing pigs (n = 12) were fed with basal diet (Control), basal diet + 0.5% SBOS (SBOS), or basal diet +0.5% SBOS + 0.1% compound probiotics (SOP) for 42 days. Results showed that SBOS and SOP treatments had positive effects on the pigs in the experiment, and the latter was more effective. Compared with the control pigs, the average daily gain of SBOS group and SOP group slightly increased, SOP significantly increased the serum levels of growth hormone and thyroid hormone T3. Importantly, serum concentrations of immunoglobulin (IgA, IgG and IgM), total antioxidant capacity and superoxide dismutase in both treatments were increased significantly, SOP group most. Moreover, the faecal odour compounds of pigs, especially skatole, were significantly reduced by the treatments. Additionally, SOP significantly increased the diversity and richness of the faecal microbiota, both the treatments increased genera of norank_f_Muribaculaceae and Ruminococcaceae but reduced Lactobacillus. Correlation analysis indicated that Lactobacillus was significantly positively correlated with odour compounds, while Ruminococcaceae was the opposite. Conclusively, synbiotics combined with SBOS and probiotics had stronger promotion effects on the growth and health of pigs.
Alternative highland adaptations: organ masses and fur insulation in Afroalpine rodents
Authors: Lövy M. , Boratyński Z. , Okrouhlík J. , Svačinová L. , Meheretu Y. , Šumbera R.
Published: October 2022

Animals inhabiting high altitudes are exposed to low ambient temperatures and hypobaric hypoxic conditions. Such dual environmental pressure reinforces mechanisms to counteract demanding thermal environment and, at the same time, physiological constraints of reduced partial oxygen pressure. We investigated how a community of rodents inhabiting the Ethiopian Highlands responded to such dual pressure. We measured internal organ masses (spleen, kidney, liver, heart, and interscapular brown adipose tissue) and fur properties (length and density of hairs) inArvicanthis blicki,Lophuromys flavopunctatus,Otomys helleri,Stenocephalemys albocaudatus,S. sokolovi, andS. albipes. Phylogenetic vector and mixed regression analyses showed that all species, except forA. blicki, had large internal organs and long and/or dense fur, indicative of high internal heat production and good insulation properties. Instead,A. blickihad the largest interscapular brown adipose tissue, but the poorest fur insulation. The link between organ masses and fur insulation suggests different physiological heat economics among the rodent species. Furthermore,O. hellerihad the most similar lengths of hind and forelimbs, indicative of cursorial locomotion, that coincides in this species with large spleen. Cursorial species, which depend on endurance running, may require large spleens to secure a storage and on‐demand release of red blood cells for aerobic physiology during prolonged exercise in high altitudes. Altogether these findings suggest different mechanisms of maintaining thermal and exercise performance under inseparable hypoxic‐thermal conditions of the high‐altitude environment among the studied rodents.
Environmental filtering and mass effect are two important processes driving lake benthic diatoms: Results of a DNA metabarcoding study in a large lake
Authors: Rimet Frédéric , Canino Alexis , Chonova Teofana , Guéguen Julie , Bouchez Agnès
Published: October 2022

Environmental filtering is often found to dominate assembly rules in diatoms. These microalgae are diverse, especially at subspecies level, and tend to exhibit a niche phylogenetic conservatism. Therefore, other rules, such as competition or mass effects, should be detectable when environmental gradients and dispersal barriers are limited. We used metabarcoding to analyse benthic littoral diatom communities in 153 sites in a large lake (Geneva) exhibiting weak geographical barriers and weak environmental gradients outside river estuaries. We assessed assembly rules using variance partitioning, phylogenetic and source tracking analyses. No phylogenetic over‐dispersion of communities, indicative of exclusive competition, was detected. Instead, we found these communities to be phylogenetically over‐clustered, indicating environmental filtering, which was even stronger near river estuaries where environmental gradients are stronger. Finally, using a Bayesian method (SourceTracker), we found that rivers flowing into the lake bring communities that settle, especially in sites close to estuaries. Rivers with the highest discharges are primarily responsible for immigration, explaining 27% of lake composition. Therefore, despite favourable conditions to observe other rules, our results support that diatom communities are prominently assembled by environmental filtering and immigration processes, in particular from rivers. However, this does not exclude that other assembly rules may be at play at a finer spatial, temporal and/or phylogenetic scale.
Possible expansion of Ixodes ricinus in the United Kingdom identified through the Tick Surveillance Scheme between 2013 and 2020
Authors: Gandy Sara L. , Hansford Kayleigh M. , Medlock Jolyon M.
Published: October 2022

The tick Ixodes ricinus (Ixodida: Ixodidae, Linnaeus) is the main vector of several pathogens including Borrelia burgdorferi s.l. (agent of Lyme borreliosis) and tick‐borne encephalitis virus. Its distribution depends on many factors including suitable habitat, climate and presence of hosts. In this study, we present records of I. ricinus bites on humans, dogs (Canis lupus familiaris; Carnivora: Canidae, L.) and cats (Felis catus; Carnivora: Felidiae, L.) in the United Kingdom (UK) obtained through the Tick Surveillance Scheme between 2013 and 2020. We divided the UK into 20 km x 20 km grids and 9.2% (range 1.2%–30%) of grids had at least one record every year since 2013. Most regions reported a yearly increase in the percentage of grids reporting I. ricinus since 2013 and the highest changes occurred in the South and East England with 5%–6.7% of new grids reporting I. ricinus bites each year in areas that never reported ticks before. Spatiotemporal analyses suggested that, while all regions recorded I. ricinus in new areas every year, there was a yearly decline in the percentage of new areas covered, except for Scotland. We discuss potential drivers of tick expansion, including reforestation and increase in deer populations.
Soil water and nutrient availability interactively modify pollinator‐mediated directional and correlational selection on floral display
Authors: Wu Yun , Liu Guangli , Sletvold Nina , Duan Xuyu , Tong Zhaoli , Li Qingjun
Published: October 2022

The individual and combined effects of abiotic factors on pollinator‐mediated selection on floral traits are not well documented.

To examine potential interactive effects of water and nutrient availability on pollinator‐mediated selection on three floral display traits of Primula tibetica, we manipulated pollination and nutrient availability in a factorial experiment, conducted at two common garden sites with different soil water content (natural vs addition).

We found that both water and nutrient availability affected floral trait expression in P. tibetica and that hand pollination increased seed production most when both nutrient content and water content were high, indicating joint pollen and resource limitation. We documented selection on all floral traits, and pollinators contributed to directional and correlational selection on plant height and number of flowers. Soil water and nutrient availability interactively influenced the strength of both pollinator‐mediated directional and correlational selection, with significant selection observed when nutrient or water availability was high, but not when none or both were added.

The results suggest that resource limitation constrains the response of P. tibetica to among‐individual variation in pollen receipt, that addition of nutrients or water leads to pollinator‐mediated selection and that effects of the two abiotic factors are nonadditive.
Live and let live: Residents' perspectives on alcohol and tobacco (mis)use in residential care facilities
Authors: de Graaf Lisette , Roelofs Tineke , Janssen Meriam , Luijkx Katrien
Published: October 2022

Background

Alcohol and tobacco use could cause health problems in older adults. Older adults who become in need of 24/7 care due to physical and/or neurological disabilities may need to move to a Residential Care Facility (RCF). RCFs aim to provide person‐centred care (PCC) to enhance quality of life (QoL) of residents.

Objectives

This study aims to explore perspectives of residents on alcohol and tobacco use, which is essential to provide PCC.

Methods

A qualitative research design was chosen, and semi‐structured interviews were conducted. Residents who use alcohol and/or tobacco and those who do not use these substances were purposively selected in two organisations on two types of units: psychogeriatric units and units providing care for residents with mainly physical disabilities. The results were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Thematic analysis resulted in five themes: Current use and self‐reflection, knowledge and attitudes, addiction or habit, policies and availability, dependency versus autonomy.

Conclusion

Residents in this study value their autonomy regarding alcohol and tobacco use. They experience dependency on their (in)formal caregivers to use these substances and acknowledge that their use could cause a nuisance to others, challenging the ability of caregivers to implement PCC. Future research could assess how to integrate providing PCC to residents by offering choices and autonomy, while considering the addictive component of these substances, health and safety risks for all.

Implications for practice

This study could help care professionals to become aware of the habits and wishes of residents regarding alcohol and tobacco use and to discuss the possibilities and limitations within RCFs.
Rating Prestige: Status‐Seeking and Creditworthiness on the Global Stage1
Authors: Güran Gözde
Published: October 2022

Just as status generates inequalities between organizations and individuals, it also structures relations among states in the global field. In an effort to elevate their status vis‐à‐vis peers, states pursue a range of status‐seeking strategies. This article asks whether states that invest more heavily in these strategies are rewarded by relevant global audiences and receive tangible material benefits. To examine this question, I study two prominent status displays—bidding to host the Olympic Games and holding a temporary seat on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC)—and analyze their relationship with upgrades in sovereign credit ratings. I find that Olympic bidders and UNSC members are 10% more likely to receive a rating upgrade within two years. Further analyses reveal that these rewards disproportionately accrue to “overachievers” who are distinct from the typical members of these elite clubs: large, upper‐middle‐income states for Olympic bidding and small states for the UNSC. To explain these findings, I propose that in a highly uncertain market environment status displays bolster impressions of states' creditworthiness by signaling a commitment to international cooperation and obligations. The study contributes to our understanding of how status shapes global inequalities, and demonstrates that status‐seeking actions yield concrete material rewards.
Characterization of the novel HLA‐B*58:01:01:19 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Tambe Manisha , D'Silva Selma Z. , Pinto Andrea S. , Singh Meenakshi
Published: October 2022

The novel HLA‐B*58:01:01:19 allele was characterized using next generation sequencing technology.
Investigation of the diagnostic performance of prick test with two environmental allergens in dogs with atopic dermatitis: A study using intradermal test as the gold standard
Authors: Badulescu Elisa , Sofou Evi Ι. , Aleksandrova Svetlina , Chatzis Manolis , Saridomichelakis Manolis N.
Published: October 2022

Background

There are no studies investigating the correlation between prick test (PT) and intradermal test (IDT) with environmental allergens in dogs with atopic dermatitis (AD).

Objectives

To investigate the correlation between PT and IDT for two environmental allergens, and to calculate the sensitivity, specificity and Youden index of PT, using IDT as the gold standard.

Materials and methods

Twenty‐two dogs with AD were selected. PT was performed with glycerinated allergen extracts, along with negative and positive controls, using the Greer Prick System. Reactions were interpreted (positive/negative) subjectively and by using seven objective criteria, by an examiner blinded to the IDT results. IDT reactions to the same allergens were interpreted, subjectively and objectively, by another masked investigator. The agreement between PT and IDT, the sensitivity, specificity and Youden index of PT, using IDT as gold standard, were calculated.

Results

On subjective evaluation, the correlation between PT and IDT was poor and sensitivity of PT was 0%. Of the seven criteria for the objective evaluation of PT, the best diagnostic performance was attained when allergen‐induced wheals were considered positive if their longest diameter was ≥8.5 mm. However, even then, the correlation with IDT was moderate, and the sensitivity of PT, albeit based on few positive IDT reactions, was low.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

At least as performed herein, PT has a poor‐to‐moderate correlation with IDT, mainly as a consequence of the lack of positive PT reactions. Further studies are needed to improve PT technique, yet, meanwhile, it cannot be recommended as a substitute for IDT.
Further Insights Into the Timoshenko–Ehrenfest Beam Theory
Authors: Banerjee J.R. , Kennedy D. , Elishakoff I.
Published: October 2022

In this paper, the theory of a Timoshenko–Ehrenfest beam is revisited and given a new perspective with particular emphasis on the relative significances of the parameters underlying the theory. The investigation is intended to broaden the scope and applicability of the theory. It has been shown that the two parameters that characterize the Timoshenko–Ehrenfest beam theory, namely the rotary inertia and the shear deformation, can be related, and hence, they can be combined into one parameter when predicting the beam’s free vibration behavior. It is explained why the effect of the shear deformation on the free vibration behavior of a Timoshenko–Ehrenfest beam for any boundary condition will be always more pronounced than that of the rotary inertia. The range of applicability of the Timoshenko–Ehrenfest beam theory for realistic problems is demonstrated by a set of new curves, which provide considerable insights into the theory.
On the Variability of Conversion Models for Concrete Strength Assessment Based on Pulse Velocity Measurements
Authors: Diaferio Mariella
Published: October 2022

The existence of a wide reinforced concrete (r.c.) building stock, which is reaching the end of its service life, has focused the attention on its vulnerability assessment. The first step of this analysis is the estimation of the concrete compressive strength. In this field, many codes allow to supplement the classical destructive tests with nondestructive ones, because of their versality and of the possibility of reducing the time spent for tests. It is worth noting that the spread of these tests is strictly connected to the accuracy of the conversion models, which correlate the nondestructive measurements to the concrete strength. The present paper deals with this issue by examining the results of the experimental investigations, which made use of destructive and ultrasonic pulse velocity tests, on three r.c. buildings in Bari (Italy). The data are analyzed and rearranged to define several testing conditions, for each one of which a conversion model is calibrated. Moreover, the variability of the parameters of the identified models is discussed with respect to the number of data considered in the calibration process, to the chosen model, and to the accuracy of the assessed strength.
Magnetic Barkhausen Noise Technique for Fatigue Detection and Classification in Martensitic Stainless-Steel
Authors: Basti Shenoy Bharath , Li Zi , Udpa Lalita , Udpa Satish , Deng Yiming , Seuaciuc-Osorio Thiago
Published: October 2022

Stainless steel is used in many applications because of its excellent mechanical properties at elevated temperatures. Material fatigue is a major problem in steel structures and can cause catastrophic damage resulting in significant economic consequences. Conventional nondestructive evaluation techniques can detect macro defects but do not perform well when it comes to material degradation due to fatigue, which happens at a microstructure level. It is well known that stress applied on a material will have an impact on the microstructure and produces a change in the magnetic properties of the material. Hence, magnetic nondestructive evaluation techniques that are sensitive to changes in magnetic properties play a major role in the early-stage fatigue detection, i.e., before the macro crack initiates. This paper introduces the magnetic Barkhausen noise technique to garner information about fatigue state of the material under test. K-medoids clustering algorithm and genetic optimization algorithm are used to classify the stainless-samples into fatigue categories. The results prove that martensitic grade stainless-steel samples in different stages of fatigue can be classified into broad fatigue categories, i.e., low fatigue, mid fatigue, and high fatigue based on the remaining useful life of the sample.
Extreme variability in atmospheric oxygen levels in the late Precambrian
Authors: Krause Alexander J. , Mills Benjamin J. W. , Merdith Andrew S. , Lenton Timothy M. , Poulton Simon W.
Published: October 2022

Mapping the history of atmospheric O
2
during the late Precambrian is vital for evaluating potential links to animal evolution. Ancient O
2
levels are often inferred from geochemical analyses of marine sediments, leading to the assumption that the Earth experienced a stepwise increase in atmospheric O
2
during the Neoproterozoic. However, the nature of this hypothesized oxygenation event remains unknown, with suggestions of a more dynamic O
2
history in the oceans and major uncertainty over any direct connection between the marine realm and atmospheric O
2
. Here, we present a continuous quantitative reconstruction of atmospheric O
2
over the past 1.5 billion years using an isotope mass balance approach that combines bulk geochemistry and tectonic recycling rate calculations. We predict that atmospheric O
2
levels during the Neoproterozoic oscillated between ~1 and ~50% of the present atmospheric level. We conclude that there was no simple unidirectional rise in atmospheric O
2
during the Neoproterozoic, and the first animals evolved against a backdrop of extreme O
2
variability.
Activated I-BAR IRSp53 clustering controls the formation of VASP-actin–based membrane protrusions
Authors: Tsai Feng-Ching , Henderson J. Michael , Jarin Zack , Kremneva Elena , Senju Yosuke , Pernier Julien , Mikhajlov Oleg , Manzi John , Kogan Konstantin , Le Clainche Christophe , Voth Gregory A. , Lappalainen Pekka , Bassereau Patricia
Published: October 2022

Filopodia are actin-rich membrane protrusions essential for cell morphogenesis, motility, and cancer invasion. How cells control filopodium initiation on the plasma membrane remains elusive. We performed experiments in cellulo, in vitro, and in silico to unravel the mechanism of filopodium initiation driven by the membrane curvature sensor IRSp53 (insulin receptor substrate protein of 53 kDa). We showed that full-length IRSp53 self-assembles into clusters on membranes depending on PIP2. Using well-controlled in vitro reconstitution systems, we demonstrated that IRSp53 clusters recruit the actin polymerase VASP (vasodilator-stimulated phosphoprotein) to assemble actin filaments locally on membranes, leading to the generation of actin-filled membrane protrusions reminiscent of filopodia. By pulling membrane nanotubes from live cells, we observed that IRSp53 can only be enriched and trigger actin assembly in nanotubes at highly dynamic membrane regions. Our work supports a regulation mechanism of IRSp53 in its attributes of curvature sensation and partner recruitment to ensure a precise spatial-temporal control of filopodium initiation.
Growth modes of single-walled carbon nanotubes on catalysts
Authors: Yang Feng , Zhao Haofei , Li Ruoming , Liu Qidong , Zhang Xinrui , Bai Xuedong , Wang Rongming , Li Yan
Published: October 2022

Understanding the growth mechanism of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) and achieving selective growth requires insights into the catalyst structure-function relationship. Using an in situ aberration-corrected environmental transmission electron microscope, we reveal the effects of the state and structure of catalysts on the growth modes of SWCNTs. SWCNTs grown from molten catalysts via a vapor-liquid-solid process generally present similar diameters to those of the catalysts, indicating a size correlation between nanotubes and catalysts. However, SWCNTs grown from solid catalysts via a vapor-solid-solid process always have smaller diameters than the catalysts, namely, an independent relationship between their sizes. The diameter distribution of SWCNTs grown from crystalline Co
7
W
6
, which has a unique atomic arrangement, is discrete. In contrast, nanotubes obtained from crystalline Co are randomly dispersed. The different growth modes are linked to the distinct chiral selectivity of SWCNTs grown on intermetallic and monometallic catalysts. These findings will enable rational design of catalysts for chirality-controlled SWCNTs growth.
Reworked pollen reduces apparent floral change during the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum
Authors: Korasidis Vera A. , Wing Scott L. , Nelson David M. , Baczynski Allison A.
Published: October 2022

Plant megafossils from the Paleocene-Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM) in the Bighorn Basin, north-central Wyoming, USA, document a dramatic shift in floral composition, whereas palynofloral change from the same sections has appeared to be more subtle. We investigated this discrepancy by quantifying pollen preservation and measuring the stable carbon isotope composition of specific pollen taxa. Pollen grains belonging to two common latest Paleocene taxa are poorly preserved in PETM samples, and their δ13Cpollen is similar during the latest Paleocene and PETM. In contrast, pollen grains of a thermophilic taxon that became more abundant during the PETM are pristine, and the δ13Cpollen of PETM specimens is ∼4‰ lower than that of latest Paleocene specimens. More broadly, pollen grains belonging to lineages currently centered in temperate climates are poorly preserved when found in PETM samples, whereas in the same samples, pollen belonging to lineages now centered in the tropics are well preserved. These differences in preservation and isotopic composition indicate extensive redeposition of older pollen grains during the PETM. Increased abundance of Cretaceous palynotaxa in PETM samples confirms erosion and redeposition, likely resulting from more episodic and intense precipitation. Exclusion of reworked palynotaxa from analyses reveals that, as in the megaflora, temperate taxa were absent during the PETM at the time when dry tropical taxa briefly appeared. Major climate changes like the PETM may commonly destabilize landscapes, increase reworking, and thus smooth patterns of change in microfloras, leading to underestimates of the rate and magnitude of floral response to past global change.
Cardiovascular and renal efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors in patients without diabetes: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo-controlled trials
Authors: Tsai Wan-Chuan , Hsu Shih-Ping , Chiu Yen-Ling , Yang Ju-Yeh , Pai Mei-Fen , Ko Mei-Ju , Tu Yu-Kang , Hung Kuan-Yu , Chien Kuo-Liong , Peng Yu-Sen , Wu Hon-Yen
Published: October 2022

Objectives

To assess the cardiovascular and renal efficacy and safety of sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 (SGLT2) inhibitors in patients without diabetes.

Methods

We searched PubMed, MEDLINE, Embase and Cochrane Library for publications up to 17 August 2022. Certainty of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed to pool effect measures across studies. Risk ratios (RRs) with 95% CIs are expressed for composite cardiovascular outcome of cardiovascular death or hospitalisation for heart failure, cardiovascular death, hospitalisation for heart failure, all-cause mortality and composite renal outcome of ≥50% reduction in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), end-stage kidney disease or renal death. Annual rate of change in eGFR is expressed as the mean difference with 95% CI.

Results

We identified four trials with 8927 patients with heart failure or chronic kidney disease (CKD). Compared with placebo, SGLT2 inhibitors showed favourable effects on the composite cardiovascular outcome (RR: 0.79, 95% CI: 0.71 to 0.87; moderate certainty), cardiovascular death (0.85, 0.74 to 0.99; moderate certainty), hospitalisation for heart failure (0.72, 0.62 to 0.82; moderate certainty), the composite renal outcome (0.64, 0.48 to 0.85; low certainty) and the annual rate of change in eGFR (mean difference: 0.99, 0.59 to 1.39 mL/min/1.73 m2/year; moderate certainty), while there was no significant difference in all-cause mortality (0.88, 0.77 to 1.01; very low certainty). Moderate certainty evidence indicated that SGLT2 inhibitors reduced the risk of serious adverse events and acute renal failure. Low certainty evidence suggested that SGLT2 inhibitors increased the risk of urinary tract infection and genital infection, while there were no differences in discontinuation due to adverse events, amputation, fracture, hypoglycaemia, ketoacidosis or volume depletion.

Conclusions

Evidence of low to moderate certainty suggests that SGLT2 inhibitors provide cardiorenal benefits but have increased risk for urinary tract infection and genital infection in patients without diabetes and with heart failure or CKD.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42021239807.
Association between a History of herpes zoster and the risk of Sjögren’s syndrome: a nationwide, population-based, case–control study
Authors: Huang Pei Ju , Lin Shih-Ping , Wu Chun-Yi , Liu Yen-Tze , Chen Hsin-Hua
Published: October 2022

Objective

Viral infection is an exogenous factor for Sjögren’s syndrome (SS). The relationship between herpes zoster infection and the ensuring risk of SS has remained unclear. This study investigated the association between a history of herpes zoster infection and the risk of SS through a nationwide population-based case–control study.

Design

Retrospective case–control study.

Setting

General population of Taiwan.

Data source

2003–2013 National Health Insurance Research Database of Taiwan.

Participants

We identified all patients with newly diagnosed SS between 1 January 2007 and 31 December 2012 without a history of rheumatoid arthritis or systemic lupus erythematosus as the SS group.

Controls

We randomly selected patients without SS between 1 January 2003 and 31 December 2012 and matched 1:5 with controls based on index year, age and sex.

Main outcome measure

Conditional logistic regression analysis to examine the association between a history of herpes zoster and the risk of SS.

Results

The study included 5751 patients with SS and 28 755 matched controls. The risk of SS was significantly associated with a history of herpes zoster (model A (adjusted for Charlson Comorbidity Index (CCI) (excluding connective tissue disease, CTD)): OR 1.89; 95% CI 1.71 to 2.08; model B (adjusted for comorbidities used to calculate CCI (excluding CTD)): OR 1.90; 95% CI 1.72 to 2.10), in particular if the interval from the last visit for herpes zoster infection to the index date was <3 months (model A: OR 3.09; 95% CI 2.20 to 4.34; model B: OR 3.13; 95% CI 2.20 to 4.45). Such associations remained robust using various definitions of herpes zoster.

Conclusion

This nationwide, population-based, case–control study revealed a significant association between a history of herpes zoster and the risk of SS.