bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Translation and international validation of the Colostomy Impact score
Authors: Kristensen Helle Ø , Thyø Anne , Jøssing Emmertsen Katrine , Smart Neil J. , Pinkney Thomas , Warwick Andrea M. , Pang Dong , Furnée Edgar J. B. , Verkuijl Sanne J. , José Rama Nuno , Domingos Hugo , Maciel João , Solis‐Peña Alejandro , Espín Basany Eloy , Hidalgo‐Pujol Marta , Biondo Sebastian , Sjövall Annika , Christensen Peter
Published: March 2021

Aim

Optimal oncological resection in cancers of the lower rectum often requires a permanent colostomy. However, in some patients a colostomy may have a negative impact on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL). The Colostomy Impact (CI) score is a simple questionnaire that identifies patients with stoma dysfunction that impairs HRQoL by dividing patients into ‘minor’ and ‘major’ CI groups. This aim of this study is to evaluate construct and discriminative validity, sensitivity, specificity and reliability of the CI score internationally, making it applicable for screening and identification of patients with stoma‐related impaired HRQoL.

Method

The CI score was translated in agreement with WHO recommendations. Cross‐sectional cohorts of rectal cancer survivors with a colostomy in Australia, China, Denmark, the Netherlands, Portugal, Spain and Sweden were asked to complete the CI score, the European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) quality of life 30‐item core questionnaire, the stoma‐specific items of the EORTC quality of life 29‐item colorectal‐specific questionnaire and five anchor questions assessing the impact of colostomy on HRQoL.

Results

A total of 2470 patients participated (response rate 51%–93%). CI scores were significantly higher in patients reporting reduced HRQoL due to their colostomy than in patients reporting no reduction. Differences in EORTC scale scores between patients with minor and major CI were significant and clinically relevant. Sensitivity was high regarding dissatisfaction with a colostomy. Regarding evaluation of discriminative validity, the CI score relevantly identified groups with differences in HRQoL. The CI score proved reliable, with equal CI scores between test and retest and an intraclass correlation coefficient in the moderate to excellent range.

Conclusion

The CI score is internationally valid and reliable. We encourage its use in clinical practice to identify patients with stoma dysfunction who require further attention.
Do exercise‐induced increases in muscle size contribute to strength in resistance‐trained individuals?
Authors: Buckner Samuel L. , Yitzchaki Noam , Kataoka Ryo , Vasenina Ecaterina , Zhu Wenyuan G. , Kuehne Tayla E. , Loenneke Jeremy P.
Published: March 2021

Aim

Previous work in non‐resistance‐trained individuals has found that an increase in muscle size has no additive effect on changes in strength. However, it is thought that muscle growth is of increased importance for resistance‐trained individuals.

Purpose

Experiment 1: To examine changes in muscle thickness (MT) and one repetition maximum (1RM) strength following 8 weeks of bi‐weekly 1RM practice or traditional training. Experiment 2: To determine whether increasing muscle size increases strength potential when followed by 4 weeks of 1RM training.

Methods

Participants performed biceps curls for 8 weeks (Experiment 1). One arm performed 4 sets of as many repetitions as possible with approximately 70% of 1RM (TRAD), and the other arm performed a single 1RM. For experiment 2, both arms trained for muscle size and strength.

Results

Experiment 1 (n = 25): for MT, the posterior probabilities favoured the hypothesis that MT changed more in the TRAD condition [mean difference: 50% site 0.15 (−0.09, 0.21) cm; 60% site 0.14 (0.06, 0.23) cm; 70% site 0.17 (0.10, 0.23) cm]. For 1RM strength, each condition changed equivalently. Experiment 2 (n = 18): for MT, the posterior probabilities favoured the hypothesis that MT changed similarly between conditions following a 4‐week strength phase. For changes in 1RM strength, the evidence favoured neither hypothesis (i.e. null vs. alternative). Of note, the mean difference between conditions was small [0.72 (4.3) kg].

Conclusions

1RM training produces similar increases in strength as traditional training. Experiment 2 suggests that increases in muscle mass may not increase the ‘potential’ for strength gain.
Local contributions to beta diversity in urban pond networks: Implications for biodiversity conservation and management
Authors: Hill Matthew J. , White James C. , Biggs Jeremy , Briers Robert A. , Gledhill David , Ledger Mark E. , Thornhill Ian , Wood Paul J. , Hassall Chris
Published: March 2021

Aim

An understanding of how biotic communities are spatially organized is necessary to identify and prioritize habitats within landscape‐scale biodiversity conservation. Local contribution to beta diversity (LCBD) identifies individual habitats that make a significant contribution to beta diversity and may have important practical implications, particularly for conservation of habitat networks. In this study, we develop and apply a conservation prioritization approach based on LCBD in aquatic invertebrate communities from 132 ponds.

Location

Five urban settlements in the UK: Halton, Loughborough, Stockport, Birmingham and Huddersfield.

Methods

We partition LCBD into richness difference (nestedness:RichDiffLCBD) and species replacement (turnover:ReplLCBD) and identify key environmental variables driving LCBD. We examine LCBD at two scales relevant to conservation planning: within urban settlements and nationally across the UK.

Results

Significant differences in LCBD values were recorded among the five settlements. In four of the five urban settlements studied, pond sites with the greatest LCBD values typically showed high replacement values. Significant LCBD sites and sites with high taxonomic diversity together supported more of the regional species pool (70%–97%) than sites with high taxonomic diversity alone (54%–94%) or what could be protected by the random selection of sites. LCBD was significantly associated with vegetation shading, surface area, altitude and macrophyte cover.

Main conclusions

Conservation prioritization that incorporates LCBD and sites with high taxonomic diversity improves the effectiveness of conservation actions within pond habitat networks, ensures sites supporting high biodiversity are protected and provides a method to define a spatial network of protected sites. Identifying new, effective conservation approaches, particularly in urban areas where resources may be scarce and conflicts regarding land use exist, is essential to ensure biodiversity is fully supported, and detrimental anthropogenic effects are reduced.
Human‐induced reduction in mammalian movements impacts seed dispersal in the tropics
Authors: Tucker Marlee A. , Busana Michela , Huijbregts Mark A. J. , Ford Adam T.
Published: March 2021

Seed dispersal is a key process affecting the structure, composition and spatial dynamics of plant populations. Numerous plant species in the tropics rely upon animals to disperse their seeds. Humans have altered mammalian movements, which will likely affect seed dispersal distances (SDD). Altered SDD may have a range of consequences for plant communities including reduced seedling recruitment and plant biomass, seed trait homogenization, altered gene flow and a reduced capacity to respond to environmental changes. Therefore, modelling the consequences of altered animal behaviour on ecosystem processes is important for predicting how ecosystems will respond to human impacts. While previous research has focused on the link between animal species extirpation and SDD, it remains unclear how changes in mammalian movement will impact SDD. Here we implemented a mechanistic modelling approach to examine how mammalian movement reductions impact SDD in the tropics. We combined allometric theory with a mechanistic seed dispersal model to estimate SDD via the movement of 37 large frugivorous mammals (> 10 kg) in the tropics under different levels of human footprint, a global proxy of direct and indirect human disturbances. Our results suggest that assemblage‐level SDD reductions are estimated to be up to 80% across the tropics in response to human disturbance. This is particularly the case in areas with high human impact such as agricultural landscapes and suburban areas. The region with the largest reductions in SDD was the Asia‐Pacific with average reductions of 25%, followed by Central–South America (16%) and then Africa (15%). Our study provides insights into how human‐induced changes in movement behaviour of large mammals could translate into altered ecosystem functioning.
Endocannabinoid‐mediated neuromodulation in the main olfactory bulb at the interface of environmental stimuli and central neural processing
Authors: Heinbockel Thomas , Bhatia‐Dey Naina , Shields Vonnie D. C.
Published: March 2021

The olfactory system has become an important functional gateway to understand and analyze neuromodulation since olfactory dysfunction and deficits have emerged as prodromal and, at other times, as first symptoms of many of neurodegenerative, neuropsychiatric and communication disorders. Considering olfactory dysfunction as outcome of altered, damaged and/or inefficient olfactory processing, in the current review, we analyze how olfactory processing interacts with the endocannabinoid signaling system. In the human body, endocannabinoid synthesis is a natural and on‐demand response to a wide range of physiological and environmental stimuli. Our current understanding of the response dynamics of the endocannabinoid system is based in large part on research advances in limbic system areas, such as the hippocampus and the amygdala. Functional interactions of this signaling system with olfactory processing and associated pathways are just emerging but appear to grow rapidly with multidimensional approaches. Recent work analyzing the crystal structure of endocannabinoid receptors bound to their agonists in a signaling complex has opened avenues for developing specific therapeutic drugs that could help with neuroinflammation, neurodegeneration, and alleviation/reduction of pain. We discuss the role of endocannabinoids as signaling molecules in the olfactory system and the relevance of the endocannabinoid system for synaptic plasticity.
Factors confounding koala habitat mapping at multiple decision‐making scales
Authors: Mitchell Dave L. , Soto‐Berelov Mariela , Langford William T. , Jones Simon D.
Published: March 2021

The Koala (Phascolarctos cinereus) is an arboreal marsupial found throughout southeastern Australia. A high risk of extinction in some areas requires adherence to legislation mandating protection of high‐quality habitat. The Koala primarily eats leaves of the Eucalyptus genus and wildlife managers are, in most cases, currently dependent on habitat maps depicting food resource availability derived from low‐resolution regional‐extent (~100,000 hectares) vegetation maps. These maps might not capture resource variability at planning extents (0.1–300 ha), or at resolutions where Koala ecology processes operate (5–50 ha). Consequently, potentially high‐quality habitat may not be considered in planning decisions. Whether low‐resolution habitat mapping adequately captures food resource variability is therefore relevant to map users at non‐regional extents. We examined four different broad‐scale low‐resolution habitat maps within a small area (150 ha) in southeast Queensland and compared the classifications of each. Map units were generally ranked in the same hierarchical order; however, differences in methodologies meant that, between maps, some units varied widely in assigned habitat quality. Two maps were assessed using quantitative Queensland Herbarium data, and field data we collected. Assessment using overstorey species emphasised habitat quality differences between habitat map units better than the alternative whole‐of‐canopy method. Maps relying on interpretation of vegetation descriptions for habitat class definition sometimes overestimated food tree cover proportions and stakeholders need to be cognisant of these limitations. One method assigned Very Low Suitability to a 60‐ha focal study site containing evidence of Koala use, and we strongly recommend that field validation should be an integral part of habitat management at these scales. We conclude that, rather than mapping approaches encompassing several habitat attributes within a single map, layered datasets, each with specific attributes, would provide greater utility for stakeholders by allowing them to use layers individually or in combination as required.
Mathematical modeling of genetic pest management through female‐specific lethality: Is one locus better than two?
Authors: Vella Michael R. , Gould Fred , Lloyd Alun L.
Published: March 2021

Many novel genetic approaches are under development to combat insect pests. One genetic strategy aims to suppress or locally eliminate a species through large, repeated releases of genetically engineered strains that render female offspring unviable under field conditions. Strains with this female‐killing characteristic have been developed either with all of the molecular components in a single construct or with the components in two constructs inserted at independently assorting loci. Strains with two constructs are typically considered to be only of value as research tools and for producing solely male offspring in rearing factories which are subsequently sterilized by radiation before release. A concern with the two‐construct strains is that once released, the two constructs would become separated and therefore non‐functional. The only female‐killing strains that have been released in the field without sterilization are single‐construct strains. Here, we use a population genetics model with density dependence to evaluate the relative effectiveness of female‐killing approaches based on single‐ and two‐construct arrangements. We find that, in general, the single‐construct arrangement results in slightly faster population suppression, but the two‐construct arrangement can eventually cause stronger suppression and cause local elimination with a smaller release size. Based on our results, there is no a priori reason that males carrying two independently segregating constructs need to be sterilized prior to release. In some cases, a fertile release would be more efficient for population suppression.
Forest microclimates and climate change: Importance, drivers and future research agenda
Authors: De Frenne Pieter , Lenoir Jonathan , Luoto Miska , Scheffers Brett R. , Zellweger Florian , Aalto Juha , Ashcroft Michael B. , Christiansen Ditte M. , Decocq Guillaume , De Pauw Karen , Govaert Sanne , Greiser Caroline , Gril Eva , Hampe Arndt , Jucker Tommaso , Klinges David H. , Koelemeijer Irena A. , Lembrechts Jonas J. , Marrec Ronan , Meeussen Camille , Ogée Jérôme , Tyystjärvi Vilna , Vangansbeke Pieter , Hylander Kristoffer
Published: March 2021

Forest microclimates contrast strongly with the climate outside forests. To fully understand and better predict how forests' biodiversity and functions relate to climate and climate change, microclimates need to be integrated into ecological research. Despite the potentially broad impact of microclimates on the response of forest ecosystems to global change, our understanding of how microclimates within and below tree canopies modulate biotic responses to global change at the species, community and ecosystem level is still limited. Here, we review how spatial and temporal variation in forest microclimates result from an interplay of forest features, local water balance, topography and landscape composition. We first stress and exemplify the importance of considering forest microclimates to understand variation in biodiversity and ecosystem functions across forest landscapes. Next, we explain how macroclimate warming (of the free atmosphere) can affect microclimates, and vice versa, via interactions with land‐use changes across different biomes. Finally, we perform a priority ranking of future research avenues at the interface of microclimate ecology and global change biology, with a specific focus on three key themes: (1) disentangling the abiotic and biotic drivers and feedbacks of forest microclimates; (2) global and regional mapping and predictions of forest microclimates; and (3) the impacts of microclimate on forest biodiversity and ecosystem functioning in the face of climate change. The availability of microclimatic data will significantly increase in the coming decades, characterizing climate variability at unprecedented spatial and temporal scales relevant to biological processes in forests. This will revolutionize our understanding of the dynamics, drivers and implications of forest microclimates on biodiversity and ecological functions, and the impacts of global changes. In order to support the sustainable use of forests and to secure their biodiversity and ecosystem services for future generations, microclimates cannot be ignored.
Community changes in odonate monitoring: why are long‐term studies so relevant?
Authors: Dolný Aleš , Pyszko Petr , Šigutová Hana
Published: March 2021

Most ecological studies involving insects are based on medium‐ and short‐term observations; however, the extent to which such data captures reality remains unclear.

We investigated the long‐term dynamics of two Odonata communities (disturbed and undisturbed sites) over 18 years and analysed the differences in the short‐ and long‐term results. We also focused on the sampling methodology to enhance the efficacy and objectivity of long‐term monitoring involving Odonata.

During one year, we captured only 53% of the overall species richness; during three consecutive sampling years, it was 65%. To capture 95%, we needed 16 years. Changes in quantitative similarity (Renkonen index, P) were more pronounced within sites over time than between sites. Species constancy significantly increased with the maximum abundance class but decreased with increasing fluctuation ratio and specialisation (Dragonfly Biotic Index). Based on exuviae, we detected half of the species compared to adults, but the species accumulation curves peaked after a few sampling years.

Long‐ and short‐term monitoring yield different results, both qualitatively (species richness, specialisation) and quantitatively (abundance, dominance). Ideal sampling should be sequential, lasting at least 10 years (capturing >80% of species). Intermittent sampling (one‐year interspersed with pauses), allowing the inclusion of multiple sites in monitoring programme, may also provide satisfactory results when performed over a longer period.

Over the long term, sampling adults semi‐quantitatively and exuviae qualitatively provided sufficient information, while being feasible in terms of both personnel and costs, thereby overcoming the main pitfalls of long‐term monitoring programmes.
Consumer’s subjective financial well‐being: A systematic review and research agenda
Authors: Nanda Ambika Prasad , Banerjee Ranjan
Published: March 2021

Subjective Financial Well‐being (FWB) research has gained considerable interest from both academics and practitioners recently. This research area focuses on the consumer’s self‐assessment of his/her disposition, belief, attitude, and behavior concerning money management, spending, savings, and investment. The authors used a systematic literature review (SLR) process, which is a step‐by‐step process‐driven methodology, to find 128 articles published between 1978 and 2020 in marketing and related consumer studies fields. By critically examining the published studies, the paper proposes an organizing framework to identify important research gaps and suggest future research directions. The existing studies highlight (a) macro‐level factors determining the consumer’s FWB, (b) bank information transparency and ethical selling, (c) consumer co‐production behavior, (d) consumer financial literacy and how it relates to FWB, (e) financial inclusion, (f) materialism, personality, spending self‐control, and FWB, (g) multicountry research, and (h) the outcomes or consequences of FWB. Further research directions emphasize the need for research on (a) young consumers and their FWB and (b) role of marketers in maintaining FWB of consumers. The organizing framework offers actionable insights for banks, other financial institutions (FIs), businesses, third‐party organizations (i.e., financial literacy service providers), and public policy makers to increase the subjective FWB of consumers.
Colombia's open‐door policy: An innovative approach to displacement?
Authors: Selee Andrew , Bolter Jessica
Published: March 2021

Colombia hosts one of the largest forced migrant populations in the world, with 1.7 million Venezuelans living there by November 2020. Since 2017, the Colombian government has provided temporary protection to more than 700,000 Venezuelans. We examine the effectiveness of this effort for labour market integration and access to education and health care. We find that temporary status has succeeded in providing legal protections to many migrants, and in providing some access to the labour market and basic education and health care. It may not advance long‐term mobility within the labour market or access to preventative or specialized health care. Implementation problems may also limit access in practice to basic education and health care. Perhaps most importantly, there have been no attempts in more than two years to provide temporary protection to migrants who entered the country irregularly, so a majority of Venezuelan nationals in Colombia now lack legal status.
Reproduction in the tropical frilly sea anemone Phymanthus pinnulatus (Cnidaria, Actiniaria)
Authors: Yong Clara Lei Xin , Yap Nicholas Wei Liang , Tan Koh Siang , Huang Danwei
Published: March 2021

Our understanding of how sea anemones reproduce in the equatorial Central Indo‐Pacific region remains poor compared to other marine regions. Here we report the gametogenic cycles of Phymanthus pinnulatus, a zooxanthellate sea anemone found throughout the Indo‐Pacific tropics. Observations were based on 41 individuals collected in Singapore. We found P. pinnulatus to be gonochoric, with an equal sex ratio of 1:1. Phases of oogenesis and spermatogenesis were detailed for the first time in P. pinnulatus, and were consistent with phases in other actiniarians. Females with pedal disc diameters <10 mm were found to asynchronously produce oocytes. We also found that trophonemata were associated with both oocytes and spermaries during gametogenesis. In Singapore, the periods during which gametes matured in each sex of P. pinnulatus appeared to overlap. We were unable distinguish whether spawning was annual or continuous in P. pinnulatus. Our observations on the occurrence of maturing and matured gametes in P. pinnulatus were similar to those reported for other species within the Central Indo‐Pacific. It also coincided with the multispecies spawning of scleractinian corals in Singapore. This study contributes to the growing body of work focused on the biology of tropical actiniarians in the Central Indo‐Pacific region.
Analytical model of the network topology and rigidity of calcium aluminosilicate glasses
Authors: Yang Kai , Hu Yushu , Li Zhou , Krishnan N. M. Anoop , Smedskjaer Morten M. , Hoover Christian G. , Mauro John C. , Sant Gaurav , Bauchy Mathieu
Published: March 2021

Topological constraint theory (TCT) has enabled the prediction of various properties of oxide glasses as a function of their composition and structure. However, the robust application of TCT relies on accurate knowledge of the network structure and topology. Here, based on classical molecular dynamics simulations, we derive a fully analytical model describing the topology of the calcium aluminosilicate [(CaO)x(Al2O3)y(SiO2)1−x−y, CAS] ternary system. This model yields the state of rigidity (flexible, isostatic, or stressed‐rigid) of CAS systems as a function of composition and temperature. These results reveal the existence of correlations between network topology and glass‐forming ability. This study suggests that glass‐forming ability is encoded in the network topology of the liquid state rather than that of the glassy state.
Cardiomyocyte protective effects of thyroid hormone during hypoxia/reoxygenation injury through activating of IGF‐1‐mediated PI3K/Akt signalling
Authors: Zeng Bin , Liu Lei , Liao Xiaoting , Zhang Caixia
Published: March 2021

Ischaemia/reperfusion (I/R) injury is a common clinical condition that results in apoptosis and oxidative stress injury. Thyroid hormone was previously reported to elicit cardiac myocyte hypertrophy and promote cardiac function after cardiac injury. We used an in vivo mouse model of I/R injury and in vitro primary cardiomyocyte culture assays to investigate the effects of thyroid hormone on cardiomyocytes during hypoxia/reoxygenation (H/R) injury. The results showed that T3 pretreatment in vivo significantly improved left ventricular function after I/R injury. In vitro, T3 pretreatment decreased cell apoptosis rate, inhibited caspase‐3 activity and decreased the Bax/Bcl‐2 ration induced by H/R injury. T3 pretreatment significantly attenuated the loss of mitochondrial membrane potential. Furthermore, it was observed that T3 diminished the expression of NCX1 protein and decreased SERCA2a protein expression in H/R‐induced cardiomyocytes, and T3 prevented intracellular Ca2+ increase during H/R injury. Also, T3 increased the expression of IGF‐1, and PI3K/Akt signalling in cardiomyocytes under H/R‐induced injury, and that the protective effect of T3 against H/R‐induced injury was blocked by the PI3K inhibitor LY294002. IGF‐1 receptor (IGF‐1R) inhibitor GSK1904529A significantly inhibited the expression of IGF‐1R and PI3K/Akt signalling. In summary, T3 pretreatment protects cardiomyocytes against H/R‐induced injury by activating the IGF‐1‐mediated PI3K/Akt signalling pathway.
Brain activity during facial processing in autism spectrum disorder: an activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta‐analysis of neuroimaging studies
Authors: Costa Cristiano , Cristea Ioana Alina , Dal Bò Elisa , Melloni Caterina , Gentili Claudio
Published: March 2021

Background

Though aberrant face processing is a hallmark of autistic spectrum disorder (ASD), findings on accompanying brain activity are divergent. Therefore, we conducted an activation likelihood estimation (ALE) meta‐analysis of studies examining brain activity during face processing.

Methods

We searched PubMed and PsycINFO using combinations of terms as ‘fMRI’, ‘Autism Spectrum Disorder’, ‘Face Perception’. Eligible studies reported on DSM‐diagnosed ASD individuals, compared to controls (HC), using face stimuli presented in fMRI and reporting whole‐brain analysis coordinates. We compared two approaches: ‘convergence of differences’ (primary analysis) using study‐level coordinates from ASD vs. HC contrasts, and ‘differences in convergence’ (secondary) pooling coordinates within each group separately, and contrasting the resultant ALE maps.

Results

Thirty‐five studies (655 ASD and 668 HC) were included. Primary analysis identified a cluster in amygdala/parahippocampus where HC showed greater convergence of activation. Secondary analysis yielded no significant results.

Conclusions

Results suggest that ASD dysfunction in face processing relies on structures involved in emotional processing rather than perception. We also demonstrate that the two ALE methodologies lead to divergent results.
Dissecting the localization of Tilapiatilapinevirus in the brain of the experimentally infected Nile tilapia, Oreochromisniloticus (L.)
Authors: Dinh‐Hung Nguyen , Sangpo Pattiya , Kruangkum Thanapong , Kayansamruaj Pattanapon , Rung‐ruangkijkrai Tilladit , Senapin Saengchan , Rodkhum Channarong , Dong Ha Thanh
Published: March 2021

Tilapia tilapinevirus or tilapia lake virus (TiLV) is an emerging virus that inflicts significant mortality on farmed tilapia globally. Previous studies reported detection of the virus in multiple organs of the infected fish; however, little is known about the in‐depth localization of the virus in the central nervous system. Herein, we determined the distribution of TiLV in the entire brain of experimentally infected Nile tilapia. In situ hybridization (ISH) using TiLV‐specific probes revealed that the virus was broadly distributed throughout the brain. The strongest positive signals were dominantly detected in the forebrain (responsible for learning, appetitive behaviour and attention) and the hindbrain (involved in controlling locomotion and basal physiology). The permissive cell zones for viral infection were observed mostly to be along the blood vessels and the ventricles. This indicates that the virus may productively enter into the brain through the circulatory system and widen broad regions, possibly through the cerebrospinal fluid along the ventricles, and subsequently induce the brain dysfunction. Understanding the pattern of viral localization in the brain may help elucidate the neurological disorders of the diseased fish. This study revealed the distribution of TiLV in the whole infected brain, providing new insights into fish–virus interactions and neuropathogenesis.
Influence of product geometry and process variables on drying energy demand of vegetables: An experimental study
Authors: Nwakuba Nnaemeka , Ndukwe Samson , Paul Tosin
Published: March 2021

The changing aspects of energy and its high demand during convective drying of food products prompted this present study, which aims at investigating the impact of product geometric shapes and process parameters on the energy demand of vegetables during convective drying. It considered three distinctive shapes (sphere, Sg; cylinder, Cg; and slab, Rg) of vegetables (cucumber, garden egg, and white carrot) at constant sample volume, dried in a laboratory convective dryer. The Box–Behnken Design tool was used to design the experiment and explored the effects of material geometries at varying drying conditions (air temperature: 50, 60, and 70°C; air velocity: 1.0, 1.5, and 2.0 ms−1) on the total and specific drying energy demand, drying efficiency, percent product shrinkage, and drying time of the fresh vegetables. Results obtained revealed that the spherical‐shaped samples exhibited high moisture diffusion and gross reduction in drying time (120 min), thus greater potential for energy and drying system improvement. The values of the effective moisture diffusion,De(0.72 × 10−10≤De≤ 2.13 × 10−9m2s−1) increased with drying temperature, and the maximumDe‐value was obtained for the Sg‐carrot sample. The percent product shrinkage ranged between 78.66–94.73% for the Cg‐garden egg and Sg‐cucumber samples, respectively. The specific energy demand of the fresh cucumber, eggplant, and white carrot samples varied significantly (p>.005) with sample geometry. The maximum specific energy demand (16.38 ± 0.41 MJ/kgH2O, respectively) was obtained for the cylindrical shaped samples, whereas the minimum specific energy demand of 9.06 ± 0.24 MJ/kgH2O was yielded by the spherical shaped samples. The mean energy and drying efficiencies of the system ranged from 3.25 to 12.26% and 7.22 to 28.24%, respectively; whilst drying time ranged between 470 and 840 min. At the optimum process variables of 69.85°C, 1.22 ms−1, 0.999 geometric shape, and −0.9977 crop sample, the specific energy demand, drying time, drying efficiency, and percent shrinkage were found to be 14.21 ± 0.84 MJkg−1, 820 ± 9.00 min, 22.76 ± 0.74%, and 92.104 ± 1.00%, respectively. Prospects for future application and recommendations for further studies were suggested.

Practical Applications

Despite the merits of artificial dryers, the food processing industry is still confronted with tremendous challenges of high energy demand and low process efficiency associated with the drying of food products, especially fruits and vegetables. Product physical attributes and drying conditions among other factors generally contribute to huge drying energy consumption, which affects the dried quality of the end product. The results of this study are of significant benefit to the food processing industries, as they may be applied in the design of efficient industrial crop dryers and optimized process guide for prolonged shelf life of processed food products, and enhanced process efficiency.
Morphometric analysis and prioritisation of watersheds for flood risk management in Wadi Easal Basin (WEB), Jordan, using geospatial technologies
Authors: Obeidat Mutawakil , Awawdeh Muheeb , Al‐Hantouli Farah
Published: March 2021

Morphometric analysis and sub‐watersheds prioritisation were carried out for the Wadi Easal Basin, Jordan, which is characterised by a high topographic diversity. The total ranking method was applied to prioritise the sub‐watersheds in terms of susceptibility to flash flood. Results of morphometric analysis revealed that the study area is a fifth order drainage system with a dendritic drainage pattern and elongated shape. Prioritisation results showed that about 71% (15 out of 21 sub‐watersheds) of sub‐watersheds have high‐very high susceptibility to flooding, which forms about 64% of the total area of the basin. The main underlying morphometric parameters behind this are the high drainage density, stream frequency, high basin relief, basin slope, ruggedness number, and circulatory ratio, and the low value of basin shape. Overall, the basin has a rugged topography with steep slopes and high relief. Since the basin is ungauged, and no information about its past hydrological behaviour is present, the results of this study can be used as guidance for competent authorities to initialize flood mitigation or artificial groundwater recharge measures.
Occurrence of aflatoxin M 1 in yogurt of five countries in west Asia region: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mohammadi Salman , Keshavarzi Majid , Kazemi Asma , Berizi Enayat , Mohsenpour Mohammad Ali , Ghaffarian‐Bahraman Ali
Published: March 2021

Despite the considerable importance of dairy consumption, aflatoxin‐M1 (AFM1) contamination can pose potential health threats for these products. In the present study, we systematically reviewed and conducted a meta‐analysis on the AFM1 contamination in yogurt samples of West Asia region. In the present study, electronic databases including PubMed, Scopus, and web of Science were comprehensively searched for papers published from April 2006 to February 2020 in English language. Of a total of 356 articles found in the initial search, 25 studies were included in our meta‐analysis. All eligible studies were attributed to five out of the 20 west Asian countries. The mean AFM1 concentration in yogurt samples (in ng/kg) was as following: Turkey 137.76 (95%CI: 61.48, 214.04), Lebanon 86.70 (95%CI: 0.00, 217.72), Pakistan 38.43 (95%CI: 9.05, 67.80), Qatar 31.30 (95%CI: 27.5, 35.14), and Iran 28.24 (95%CI: 23.11, 33.36). According to our results, aflatoxin contamination levels in 32.25% of Lebanese, 31.25% of Turkish, 20.95% of Pakistani, 8.27% of Iranian and 0% of Qatari yogurt samples exceeded the European upper limit (i.e., 50 ng/kg). The hazard index (HI) for AFM1 exposure via yogurt consumption was in acceptable range for included countries except for Turkey and Lebanon.
Differences in inpatient and outpatient hepatitis C virus prevalence and linkage to care rates in a safety net hospital hepatitis C screening program
Authors: Veeramachaneni Hima , Park Brandi , Blakely Danielle , Palacio Andres , Darby Rapheisha , Fluker Shelly‐Ann , Lyles Robert H. , Miller Lesley S.
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim

Routine screening for hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection is crucial in identifying the 50% of infected persons unaware of their infection. We added an inpatient screening initiative to our successful outpatient HCV screening program in an urban, safety‐net hospital.

Methods

From March 2017 to December 2019, HCV screening was performed in inpatient and outpatient settings at Grady Health System. We compared care cascade outcomes, including anti‐HCV testing, RNA testing, and linkage to care (LTC) between these settings.

Results

A total of 29 751 patients were tested for anti‐HCV: 8883 inpatients and 20 868 outpatients. The anti‐HCV population was predominantly Black (76.2%) and male (67.9%). The total anti‐HCV prevalence was 8.9%, with 14% of inpatients and 6.7% of outpatients testing positive. RNA testing was performed on 86%. The prevalence of active HCV infection was 59.3% in those that were anti‐HCV positive; inpatient prevalence was 66%, and outpatient was 53.8%. Of those with active infection, 67.5% were linked to care (57.3% of inpatients and 77.8% of outpatients).

Conclusion

We found significant differences in prevalence of anti‐HCV and LTC rates between inpatients and outpatients during an HCV screening program. Higher anti‐HCV prevalence among inpatients may be due a higher prevalence of non‐birth year HCV risk factors. LTC rates were lower in the inpatient setting despite a robust linkage strategy. The striking prevalence of HCV in both settings warrants continued screening, expansion to additional settings, and novel strategies to improve inpatient linkage rates, especially in the setting of new universal HCV screening guidelines.
Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection versus endoscopic submucosal dissection for 20–30 mm colorectal polyps
Authors: Inoue Takahiro , Nakagawa Kentaro , Yamasaki Yasushi , Shichijo Satoki , Kanesaka Takashi , Maekawa Akira , Higashino Koji , Uedo Noriya , Ishihara Ryu , Takeuchi Yoji
Published: March 2021

Background and Aim

Endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) for large polyps provides a high en bloc resection rate, accurate pathological diagnosis, and low recurrence rate. However, ESD requires advanced techniques, and underwater endoscopic mucosal resection (UEMR) is an alternative. We investigated the efficacy and safety of UEMR for 20–30 mm colorectal lesions compared with ESD.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated systematically collected data of patients who underwent UEMR or ESD for 20–30 mm sessile colorectal lesions. Outcome measures were the incidence of local recurrence, procedure time, en bloc resection rate, and incidence of adverse events. We performed propensity score matching and inverse probability weighting adjustment to control for possible confounders.

Results

We evaluated 125 patients undergoing UEMR and 306 patients undergoing ESD. Using propensity score matching, we analyzed 74 lesions in each group. UEMR had a shorter procedure time than ESD [6.7 min (95% confidence interval (CI), 5.3–8.1 min) vs 64.8 min (95% CI, 57.4–72.2 min), respectively]. Although the en bloc resection rate with UEMR was inferior to ESD [61% (95% CI, 49–72%) vs 99% (95% CI, 93–100%), respectively], there was no significant difference in the local recurrence rate between the procedures [0% (95% CI, 0–4.0%) in each group]. Inverse probability weighting adjustment revealed that neither ESD nor UEMR had a significant association with local recurrence.

Conclusions

Underwater endoscopic mucosal resection for 20–30  mm colorectal lesions was comparable with ESD regarding long‐term outcomes, with a shorter procedure time, despite the lower en bloc resection rate.
Mediterranean diet and risk for dementia and cognitive decline in a Mediterranean population
Authors: Charisis Sokratis , Ntanasi Eva , Yannakoulia Mary , Anastasiou Costas A. , Kosmidis Mary H. , Dardiotis Efthimios , Hadjigeorgiou Georgios , Sakka Paraskevi , Scarmeas Nikolaos
Published: March 2021

Background

Current evidence suggests that nutrition in general and specific dietary patterns in particular, such as the Mediterranean type diet (MeDi), can be employed as potential preventive strategies against the development of dementia and cognitive decline. However, longitudinal data exploring the applicability of these findings in populations of Mediterranean origin are limited. The aim of the present study was to explore the potential relationships of MeDi adherence with dementia incidence rates and cognitive change over time in a traditional Mediterranean population, characterized by a lifelong exposure to Mediterranean eating habits and lifestyle.

Methods

The sample consisted of 1046 non‐demented individuals over the age of 64 (mean age = 73.1; SD = 5.0), with available baseline dietary information and longitudinal follow‐up. Diagnosis of dementia was made by a full clinical and neuropsychological evaluation, while cognitive performance was assessed according to five cognitive domains (memory, language, attention‐speed, executive functioning, visuospatial perception) and a global cognitive score. Adherence to MeDi was evaluated by an a priori score (range 0–55), derived from a detailed food frequency questionnaire.

Results

A total of 62 incident dementia cases occurred during a mean (SD) of 3.1 (0.9) years of follow‐up. Individuals in the highest MeDi quartile (highest adherence to MeDi) had a 72% lower risk for development of dementia, compared to those in the lowest one (p = 0.013). In addition, analysis of cognitive performance as a function of MeDi score revealed that the biennial cognitive benefit of a 10‐unit increase in MeDi score offsets the cognitive decline associated with 1 year of cognitive aging.

Conclusion

In the present study, higher adherence to MeDi was associated with a reduced risk for dementia and cognitive decline in a traditional Mediterranean population.
Carboniferous high‐P metamorphism and deformation in the Belledonne Massif (Western Alps)
Authors: Jacob Jean‐Baptiste , Guillot Stéphane , Rubatto Daniela , Janots Emilie , Melleton Jérémie , Faure Michel
Published: March 2021

The age and P–T conditions of Variscan high‐P(HP) metamorphism in the Palaeozoic basement of the western Alps remain poorly constrained, but is nevertheless crucial to build a consistent tectonic scenario for the southeastern domain of the Variscan Belt. We report here the results of a structural, petrological, thermobarometric, and geochronological investigation of an eclogite‐bearing unit exposed in the northeastern part of the Belledonne Massif (France). This unit is mostly composed of metasediments that are locally migmatized and contain decametre‐ to hectometre‐scale lenses of orthogneiss and amphibolites. SIMS U–Pb dating of magmatic zircon cores in two retrogressed ecogites yields ages at 456 ± 4 Ma and 448 ± 6 Ma, which are interpreted to date the emplacement of the magmatic protoliths. The peak pressure stage in the retrogressed eclogites is estimated to be >1.4 GPa at 690–740°C, and was followed by decompression from 1.4 to ca. 1.0 GPa at 700–800°C. By contrast, the investigated migmatitic metasediment does not present any trace of HP metamorphism, but instead preserves prograde evolution from sub‐solidus conditions (ca. 0.8–1.1 GPa and 600–700°C) to supra‐solidus conditions (1.1–1.4 GPa and 700–780°C). A later stage of retrogression below ca. 0.5–0.8 GPa and 570–610°C is recorded in both lithologies, and is taken to indicate cooling and exhumation to upper crustal levels. Metamorphism was roughly coeval in the retrogressed eclogites and in the migmatitic metasediment. Metamorphic zircon rims yield U–Pb dates scattering between 340 and 310 Ma in both lithologies. In the migmatitic metasediment, a distinct younger age at 306 ± 3 Ma is interpreted to represent late stages of melt crystallization. In the retrogressed eclogites, zircon zoning and chemical composition (Th/U and REE) indicate initial crystallization of the rims during the HP stage followed by protracted growth during decompression to granulitic/amphibolitic conditions. Rutile U–Pb dating in one eclogite sample yields an age of 340 ± 11 Ma similar to the oldest zircon ages and is interpreted to approximate the age of the peak pressure metamorphism. Retrogression in the amphibolite facies is correlated with the development of a penetrative, N30° subvertical mylonitic S2 foliation. Regionally, this deformation occurs in a dextral transpressive corridor interpreted to represent a crustal‐scale shear zone active during the mid‐late Carboniferous. We therefore suggest that this structure has driven the exhumation of eclogites from the lower crust and their mixing with mid‐crustal felsic lithologies devoid of HP assemblages.
How to time the time ‐ A preface to the special issue Circadian Rhythms in the Brain
Authors: Stehle Jörg H. , Zemmar Ajmal , Hausmann Laura
Published: March 2021

In this Preface to the Journal of Neurochemistry special issue “Circadian Rhythms in the Brain”, we summarize recent insights into connections between circadian rhythms and societal concerns related to aging and food intake, with consequences for healthy or aberrant metabolic homeostasis. The articles in this special issue were written by leading authors who presented their research at the 2019 Congress of the European Biological Rhythm Society, and are thus reflective of a broad variety of state‐of‐the‐art research on all levels of chronobiology, from circadian rhythm generators in various tissues (including astrocytes) and the molecular mechanisms they base on, such as GABAergic regulation or ubiquitination, to the systems and behavioral level effects of chrono‐nutrition and aging.

image

Cover Image for this issue: https://doi.org/10.1111/jnc.15058.
Current status of multi‐disciplinary paediatric weight management services in Australia
Authors: McMaster Caitlin M , Calleja Elizabeth , Cohen Jennifer , Alexander Shirley , Denney‐Wilson Elizabeth , Baur Louise A
Published: March 2021

Aim

To identify multi‐disciplinary paediatric weight management services currently available in Australia and determine gaps in service provision for children and adolescents with obesity.

Methods

Surveys were distributed to 17 identified Australian multi‐disciplinary paediatric weight management services. A representative from each service was asked to complete an online survey regarding service and patient characteristics, assessment and management practices, and professional development approaches.

Results

Representatives from 16 multi‐disciplinary paediatric weight management services completed the survey. Fourteen services were based in major metropolitan cities and two in regional areas. Fourteen services provided care to pre‐school aged children (0–4 years old), 15 to primary school aged children (5–12 years old) and 13 to high school aged children (13–18 years old). The number of patients seen per year per service ranged from 20 to 250 and duration of waiting lists ranged from 2 months to more than 12 months.

Conclusions

The current availability and accessibility of multi‐disciplinary paediatric weight management services is inadequate to service Australian children and adolescents with obesity, particularly those with severe obesity and those in rural and remote communities. To better address the issue of paediatric obesity, establishment of additional multi‐disciplinary services, training for health‐care professionals and monitoring of the provision of evidence‐based care is urgently needed.
The fungal pathogen Corynespora cassiicola: A review and insights for target spot management on cotton and Soya bean
Authors: N. Rondon Marina , Lawrence Kathy
Published: March 2021

Corynespora cassiicola (Berk. & Curt.) C.T. Wei is a fungus that occupies several diverse habits from a saprophyte to a parasite of plants, nematodes and humans. As a phytoparasitic fungus, C. cassiicola causes disease in a broad range of plant species worldwide. It causes target spot on cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) and Soya bean (Glycine max (L.) Merr.) and is a disease of economic importance. Increasing demand for food and fibre to supply a growing world population requires increasing yields of crops on existing agricultural land while protecting the environment, following the principles of integrated pest management (IPM) strategies. The current review provides a summary of research conducted on C. cassiicola with a special focus on target spot of cotton and Soya bean. The biology and diversity among C. cassiicola isolates are presented. A more detailed discussion on two essential IPM strategies is provided emphasizing their importance in disease management; the risk of fungicide resistance development with the use of fungicides to control target spot, and the need for genetic control with resistant cultivars.