bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Differential mosquito attraction to humans is associated with skin-derived carboxylic acid levels
Authors: De Obaldia Maria Elena , Morita Takeshi , Dedmon Laura C. , Boehmler Daniel J. , Jiang Caroline S. , Zeledon Emely V. , Cross Justin R. , Vosshall Leslie B.
Published: January 2022

FemaleAedes aegyptimosquitoes feed on human blood, which they use to develop their eggs. It has been widely noted that some people are more attractive to mosquitoes than others, but the mechanistic basis of this phenomenon is poorly understood. Here we tested mosquito attraction to skin odor collected from human subjects and identified people who are exceptionally attractive or unattractive to mosquitoes. Notably, these preferences were stable over several years, indicating consistent longitudinal differences in skin odor between subjects. We carried out gas chromatography/quadrupole time of flight-mass spectrometry to analyze the chemical composition of human skin odor in these subjects and discovered that highly attractive people produce significantly increased levels of carboxylic acids. Mosquitoes could reliably distinguish a highly attractive human from their weakly attractive counterparts unless we substantially diluted the odor of the “mosquito magnet.” This is consistent with the hypothesis that odor concentration is a major driver of differential attraction, rather than the less-favored skin odor blend containing repellent odors, although these are not mutually- exclusive. Mosquitoes detect carboxylic acids with a large family of odor-gated ion channels encoded by the Ionotropic Receptor gene superfamily. Mutant mosquitoes lacking any of the Ionotropic Receptor (IR) co-receptorsIr8a, Ir25a,andIr76b,were severely impaired in attraction to human scent but retained the ability to differentiate highly and weakly attractive people. The link between elevated carboxylic acids in “mosquito-magnet” human skin odor and phenotypes of genetic mutations in carboxylic acid receptors suggests that such compounds contribute to differential mosquito attraction. Understanding why some humans are more attractive than others provides insights into what skin odorants are most important to the mosquito and could inform the development of more effective repellents.
Consumer's transition to online clothing buying during the COVID-19 pandemic: exploration through protection motivation theory and consumer well-being
Authors: Kursan Milaković Ivana , Miocevic Dario
Published: January 2022

Purpose

By drawing on protection motivation theory, this study explores consumers' motivation to engage in adaptive behaviour envisioned through a transition from offline to online clothing purchasing during the COVID-19 pandemic. Additionally, this paper explores the conditioning effects of consumer resilience and satisfaction with retailers' assistive intent through the consumer well-being framework.

Design/methodology/approach

A total of 363 useable surveys were obtained from Croatian consumers. Data were analysed with confirmatory factor analysis and structural equation modelling.

Findings

Coping appraisal positively impacts adaptive behaviour by increasing online clothing purchase intention, while threat appraisal has no direct effect on adaptive behaviour. The relationship between threat appraisal and adaptive behaviour is negatively moderated by consumer resilience and satisfaction with the retailer's assistive intent.

Research limitations/implications

Limitations include the convenience sampling method and data collection at one point as well as the focus on consumers from one country.

Practical implications

This study provides a blueprint for designing marketing actions that retail managers should consider to respond to a crisis effectively while maintaining satisfactory buying experiences during health crises and other challenging events.

Originality/value

Given the unique research context, i.e. the COVID-19 pandemic, this study is one of the few and the first in Croatia to unfold the importance of protection motivation theory in providing a greater understanding of consumer's adaptive behaviour (transition from offline to online) in online clothing retail channels during the period of the global health-related crisis. Benefits from understanding consumers' coping and threat appraisal mechanisms while addressing their buying needs in adverse circumstances are revealed. In addition, the theoretical implications regarding the conditional effects of consumer resilience and consumer satisfaction with retailers' assistive intent during a pandemic are also provided.
Auditing integrated stroke care to support quality improvement activities: development of a peer-to-peer audit framework
Authors: Buijck Bianca , Vrijhoef Bert , Bergsma Monique , Dippel Diederik
Published: January 2022

Purpose

To organize stroke care, multiple stakeholders work closely together in integrated stroke care services (ISCS). However, even a well-developed integrated care program needs a continuous quality improvement (CQI) cycle. The current paper aims to describe the development of a unique peer-to-peer audit framework, the development model for integrated care (DMIC), the Dutch stroke care standard and benchmark indicators for stroke.

Design/methodology/approach

A group of experts was brought together in 2016 to discuss the aims and principles of a national audit framework. The steering group quality assurance (SGQA) consisted of representatives of a diversity of professions in the field of stroke care in the Netherlands, including managers, nurses, medical specialists and paramedics.

Findings

Auditors, coordinators and professionals evaluated the framework, agreed on that the framework was easy to use and valued the interesting and enjoyable audits, the compliments, feedback and fruitful insights. Participants consider that a quality label may help to overcome necessity issues and have health care insurers on board. Finally, a structured improvement plan after the audit is needed.

Originality/value

An audit offers fruitful insights into the functioning of an ISCS and the collaboration therein. Best practices and points of improvement are revealed and can fuel collaboration and the development of partnerships. Innovative cure and care may lead to an increasing area of support among professionals in the ISCS and consequently lead to improved quality of delivered stroke care.
Early career programs for mental health occupational therapists: A survey of current practice
Authors: Foster Frances , Palexas Sarah , Hitch Danielle
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Early in their career, occupational therapists may require a range of additional development for a successful transition to the profession. However, both the definition of ‘early career’ and the relevant development for this career stage vary between sources. In regard to occupational therapists transitioning to mental health professional practice, there is very little evidence to draw upon when designing the structure and content of development programs. This study aimed to review current practices in early career programs for mental health occupational therapists within the Australian state of Victoria.

Methods

Tertiary mental health services in Victoria were purposefully recruited, supplemented by snowball recruitment. The participants responded to a bespoke survey including open and closed questions, designed to benchmark practices against previous research and explore current practices with early career mental health occupational therapists. Thirteen services participated, with respondents including senior clinicians, allied health chiefs, allied health clinical educators and early career development program coordinators.

Results

The participants confirmed the perceived value of development programs for early career mental health occupational therapists; however, limited resources were available to develop, implement and sustain these supports. Program content, structure and terminology varied significantly, as did the identified competencies for participants to achieve. Some of this variability was related to program eligibility criteria and early career workforce structure within organisations.

Conclusion

Early career mental health occupational therapist development should be responsive to their local service environments. A better understanding of the outcomes of these programs for early career occupational therapists, from both an individual and service perspective, could also provide a firmer rationale and foundation for sustained resourcing of this valuable approach to workforce development.
A Case Study: Same Day Spontaneous Reduction of a Traumatic Infantile Depressed Skull Fracture
Authors: Tang Kinglam , Chow Kwan Ho , Po Yin‐Chung
Published: January 2022

A depressed skull fracture refers to a focal caving of the calvaria. Conservative management in the paediatric population is advised in the absence of brain injury as the deformity will often correct itself as the skull grows over the following months. Herein, we present a rare case of an infantile traumatic depressed skull fracture that spontaneously resolved within 4 hours of the injury. A 9‐month‐old male presented with a 6 mm deep traumatic depressed skull fracture after falling from sofa height. The fracture spontaneously reduced during a crying episode whilst waiting for the CT scan and the subsequent brain CT confirmed complete resolution of the fracture with no brain injury. The child was monitored in the outpatient setting and remained well with no neurological or cosmetic sequalae. It is postulated that the infant's skull plasticity and the increased intracranial pressure (ICP) from his crying allowed for the spontaneous resolution of the skull deformity. This case thus beautifully illustrates the efficacy of watchful waiting in traumatic paediatric depressed skull fractures without underlying neurological injury.
On the value of innovation and extension information: SCN‐resistant soybean varieties
Authors: Lee Seungki , Moschini GianCarlo
Published: January 2022

This paper presents direct evidence on the impact of a specific extension program that is aimed at promoting the adoption of varieties resistant to the soybean cyst nematode (SCN), specifically the Iowa State University SCN‐Resistant Soybean Variety Trials. We use two data sources: experimental data from these variety trials and a rich proprietary dataset on farmers’ seed purchases. Combining these data, we estimate the value of soybean cyst nematode‐resistant variety availability, and the associated variety trials that provide information on their performance to farmers and seed companies. Given the scope and diffusion of this extension program, the focus of the analysis is on Iowa and northern Illinois over the period 2011–2016. Farmers’ seed choices are modeled in a discrete choice framework, specifically a one‐level nested logit model. Using the estimated demand model, we find farmers’ marginal willingness to pay for soybean cyst nematode‐resistant varieties, and for related extension information provided by the Iowa State University SCN‐Resistant Soybean Variety Trials program, to be large. These results are confirmed by counterfactual analyses showing that, over the six‐year period and region of the study, the total ex post welfare change associated with the existence of, and information about, SCN‐resistant seeds is about $478 million. About one‐third of this surplus is captured by seed suppliers, and two‐thirds accrues to farmers.
The learning curve to attain surgical competency in robotic colorectal surgery
Authors: Wong Shing Wai , Ang Zhen Hao , Crowe Philip
Published: January 2022

Introduction

The aim of the study was to assess the robotic colorectal surgery (RCS) learning curve of an experienced surgeon.

Methods

A retrospective review of 117 consecutive patients who underwent total RCS at a single institution between October 2018 and July 2021 was performed. Patient demographics, surgery indications, operation type, intraoperative data, histopathology, morbidity and mortality, and length of stay were analysed. Cumulative summation technique (CUSUM) was used to construct a learning curve of surgeon console and total operation times (SCT and TOT).

Results

There was no open conversion, positive resection margin and mortality in the study population. There were four Clavien‐DIndo grade III complications and one local recurrence. The range for SCT was 18–855 min (mean 214, median 211) and TOT was 68–937 min (mean 302, median 291). The SCT CUSUM graph identified change in slope at cases 44 and 88, which divided the learning curve into three distinct phases. Patient demographics were similar through the three phases. There was proportionally more cancer cases performed in the first phase (P = 0.001). The mean SCT was significantly higher in Phase 2 when compared with Phases 1 and 3 (P = 0.03). The failure rate was similar through the three phases. There was a non‐significant steady decline in LOS over the three phases, from 6.9 to 6.1 days.

Conclusion

Experienced colorectal surgeons can perform robotic surgery safely, even on patients with high complexity early in the learning curve. Audit of patient outcome should be an important component of learning curve assessment.
Risk factors associated with in‐hospital mortality for patients with ECLS due to postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock after isolated coronary surgery
Authors: Rustenbach Christian Jörg , Djordjevic Ilija , David Lara , Ivanov Borko , Gerfer Stephen , Gaisendrees Christopher , Wendt Stefanie , Merkle Julia , Seo Joon , Sabashnikov Anton , Rahmanian Parwis , Kuhn Elmar , Kroener Axel , Bennink Gerardus , Eghbalzadeh Kaveh , Wahlers Thorsten
Published: January 2022

Objectives

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation or extracorporeal life support (ECLS) in patients after cardiac surgery and postcardiotomy cardiogenic shock (PCS) is known to be associated with high mortality. Especially in patients after coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) and PCS, ECLS is frequently established. The aim of this analysis was to evaluate factors associated with in‐hospital mortality in patients treated with ECLS due to PCS after CABG.

Methods

Between August 2006 and January 2017, 92 consecutive patients with V‐A ECLS due to PCS after isolated CABG were identified and included in this retrospective analysis. Patients were divided into survivors (S) and non‐survivors (NS) and analyzed with risk factors of in‐hospital mortality.

Results

In‐hospital mortality added up to 61 patients (66%). Non‐survivors were significantly older (60 ± 812 (S) vs. 67 ± 10 (NS); p = 0.013). Bilateral internal mammary artery graft was significantly more frequently used in S (23% (S) vs. 2% (NS); p = 0.001). After 24 h of ECLS support, median lactate levels were significantly higher in NS (1.9 (1.3; 3.5) mmol/L (S) vs. 3.5 (2.1; 6.3) mmol/L (NS); p = 0.001). NS suffered more often acute kidney injury requiring dialysis (42% (S) vs. 74% (NS); p = 0.002).

Conclusion

Mortality in patients with refractory PCS after CABG and consecutive ECLS support remains high. Failing end‐organ recovery under ECLS despite optimized concomitant medical therapy is an indicator of adverse outcomes in this specific patient cohort. Moreover, total‐arterial revascularization might be beneficial for cardiac recovery in patients suffering PCS after CABG and following ECLS.
Increased heroin intake and relapse vulnerability in intermittent relative to continuous self‐administration: Sex differences in rats
Authors: D'Ottavio Ginevra , Reverte Ingrid , Ragozzino Davide , Meringolo Maria , Milella Michele Stanislaw , Boix Fernando , Venniro Marco , Badiani Aldo , Caprioli Daniele
Published: January 2022

Background and Purpose

Studies using intermittent‐access drug self‐administration show increased motivation to take and seek cocaine and fentanyl, relative to continuous access. In this study, we examined the effects of intermittent‐ and continuous‐access self‐administration on heroin intake, patterns of self‐administration and cue‐induced heroin‐seeking, after forced or voluntary abstinence, in male and female rats. We also modelled brain levels of heroin and its active metabolites.

Experimental Approach

Rats were trained to self‐administer a palatable solution and then heroin (0.075 mg·kg−1 per inf) either continuously (6 h·day−1; 10 days) or intermittently (6 h·day−1; 5‐min access every 30‐min; 10 days). Brain levels of heroin and its metabolites were modelled using a pharmacokinetic software. Next, heroin‐seeking was assessed after 1 or 21 abstinence days. Between tests, rats underwent either forced or voluntary abstinence. The oestrous cycle was measured using a vaginal smear test.

Key Results

Intermittent access exacerbated heroin self‐administration and was characterized by a burst‐like intake, yielding higher brain peaks of heroin and 6‐monoacetylmorphine concentrations. Moreover, intermittent access increased cue‐induced heroin‐seeking during early, but not late abstinence. Heroin‐seeking was higher in females after intermittent, but not continuous access, and this effect was independent of the oestrous cycle.

Conclusions and Implications

Intermittent heroin access in rats resembles critical features of heroin use disorder: a self‐administration pattern characterized by repeated large doses of heroin and higher relapse vulnerability during early abstinence. This has significant implications for refining animal models of substance use disorder and for better understanding of the neuroadaptations responsible for this disorder.

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Advances in Opioid Pharmacology at the Time of the Opioid Epidemic. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.7/issuetoc
The effect of breached relay ramp structures on deep‐lacustrine sedimentary systems
Authors: Plenderleith Gayle E. , Dodd Thomas J. H. , McCarthy Dave J.
Published: January 2022

Fault relay ramps are important sediment delivery points along rift margins and often provide persistent flow pathways in deepwater sedimentary basins. They form as tilted rock volumes between en‐echelon fault segments, which become modified through progressive deformation, and may develop through‐going faults that ‘breach’ the relay ramp. It is well established that hinterland drainage (fluvial/alluvial systems) is greatly affected by the presence of relay ramps at basin margins. However, the impact on deepwater (deep‐marine/lacustrine) subaqueous sediment gravity flow processes, particularly by breached relay ramps, is less well documented. To better evaluate the complex geology of breached relay settings, this study examines a suite of high‐quality subsurface data from the Early Cretaceous deep‐lacustrine North Falkland Basin (NFB). The Isobel Embayment breached relay‐ramp, an ideal example, formed during the syn‐rift and was later covered by a thick transitional and early post‐rift succession. Major transitional and early post‐rift fan systems are observed to have consistently entered the basin at the breached relay location, directed through a significant palaeo‐bathymetric low associated with the lower, abandoned ramp of the structure. More minor systems also entered the basin across the structure‐bounding fault to the north. Reactivation of basin‐bounding faults is shown by the introduction of new point sources along its extent. This study shows the prolonged influence of margin‐located relay ramps on sedimentary systems from syn‐rift, transitional and into the early post‐rift phase. It suggests that these structures can become reactivated during post‐rift times, providing continued control on deposition and sourcing of overlying sedimentary systems. Importantly, breached relays exert control on fan distribution, characterised by laterally extensive lobes sourced by widespread feeder systems, and hanging walls settings by small‐scale lobes, with small, often line‐sourced feeders. Further characterising the likely sandstone distribution in these structurally complex settings is important as these systems often form attractive hydrocarbon reservoirs.
Results from a multicenter, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of repository corticotropin injection for multiple sclerosis relapse that did not adequately respond to corticosteroids
Authors: Wynn Daniel , Goldstick Lawrence , Bauer William , Zhao Enxu , Tarau Eva , Cohen Jeffrey A. , Robertson Derrick , Miller Aaron
Published: January 2022

Introduction

About 20%–35% of multiple sclerosis (MS) patients fail to respond to high‐dose corticosteroids during a relapse. Repository corticotropin injection (RCI, Acthar® Gel) is a naturally sourced complex mixture of adrenocorticotropic hormone analogs and pituitary peptides that has anti‐inflammatory and immunomodulatory effects.

Aims

The study objective was to determine the efficacy and safety of RCI in patients with MS relapse that inadequately responded to corticosteroids. This was a multicenter, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study. Nonresponders to high‐dose corticosteroids were randomized to receive RCI (80 U) or placebo daily for 14 days. Assessments included improvements on the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), Multiple Sclerosis Impact Scale (MSIS‐29), Clinical Global Impression of Improvement (CGI‐I), and adverse events (AEs).

Results

Eighteen patients received RCI, and 17 received placebo. A greater proportion of EDSS responders was observed in the RCI group at Day 7, 21, and 42 compared with the placebo group. Qualitative CGI‐I showed that more patients receiving RCI were much improved or very much improved than with placebo. No meaningful differences were observed between treatment groups for MSIS‐29. No serious AEs or deaths were reported.

Conclusion

RCI is safe and effective for MS relapse patients who do not respond to high‐dose corticosteroids.
Ultrasound‐assisted reduction of bis azo dye into aromatic amines on natural textile fibres: A greener approach
Authors: Dewani Rajkumar , Rasheed Munawwer , Ahmed Farman , Asim Muhammad Zubair , Shaikh Mansoor , Pervez Muhammad Kashif
Published: January 2022

The current study elaborates on the capabilities of ultrasonic waves in improving the conventional method for analysis of banned aromatic amines in dyed textile samples. Wool, linen and cotton were dyed according to their relative affinity with a selected benzidine‐based dye, CI Direct Red 28. The standard procedure, BS EN 14362‐1:2012, was used for testing dyed textile samples, with final estimation through gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. The dyed samples, after reduction, released a significant quantity of benzidine (listed banned amine), hence were chosen for experiments with ultrasound‐assisted reduction (UAR). To explore the influence of ultrasound energy on the reduction of bis azo dye, the standard procedure for analysis of banned aromatic amines in textiles was modified incorporating minor changes. The reduction step in the altered methods was performed with ultrasonic aid in less time, while the rest of the method remained unmodified. The altered procedure was designated as “method 2”. Samples were quantified with gas chromatography‐mass spectrometry. The extent of the reduction was correlated with wetting characteristics of textile materials. The results from the standard test procedure were used for comparison with those obtained from UAR trials. The UAR method in the case of wool, assessed in terms of greenness, provided noticeable time and energy savings. A comparative account of the chosen matrices with respect to dye reduction is also presented.
Effects of a 6‐month, low‐carbohydrate diet on glycaemic control, body composition, and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes: An open‐label randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gram‐Kampmann Eva M. , Hansen Camilla D. , Hugger Mie B. , Jensen Jane M. , Brønd Jan C. , Hermann Anne Pernille , Krag Aleksander , Olsen Michael H. , Beck‐Nielsen Henning , Højlund Kurt
Published: January 2022

Aim

To investigate the efficacy and safety of a non‐calorie–restricted low‐carbohydrate diet (LCD) on glycaemic control, body composition, and cardiovascular risk factors in patients with type 2 diabetes (T2D) instructed to maintain their non‐insulin antidiabetic medication and physical activity.

Materials and Methods

In an open‐label randomized controlled trial, patients with T2D were randomized 2:1 to either a LCD with a maximum of 20 E% (percentage of total energy intake) from carbohydrates (n = 49) or a control diet with 50‐60 E% from carbohydrates (n = 22) for 6 months. Examinations at enrolment and after 3 and 6 months included blood sample analyses, anthropometrics, blood pressure, accelerometer‐based assessment of physical activity, and food diaries. Total fat mass and lean mass were determined by dual‐energy x‐ray absorptiometry scan. The mean difference in change between groups from baseline are reported.

Results

The LCD group decreased carbohydrate intake to 13.4 E% and increased fat intake to 63.2 E%, which was −30.5 ± 2.2 E% lower for carbohydrates and 30.6 ± 2.2 E% higher for fat, respectively, compared with the control group (all P < .001). The LCD reduced HbA1c after 3 months (−8.9 ± 1.7 mmol/mol; P < .0001), and this was maintained after 6 months (−7.5 ± 1.8 mmol/mol; P < .0001) compared with the control diet. The LCD also reduced weight (−3.9 ± 1.0 kg), body mass index (−1.4 ± 0.4 kg/m2), and waist circumference (−4.9 ± 1.3 cm) compared with the control diet (all P < .01), accompanied by reductions in total fat mass (−2.2 ± 1.0 kg; P = .027) and lean mass (−1.3 ± 0.6 kg; P = .017). No changes in blood lipids or blood pressure were seen after 6 months. The level of physical activity was maintained, and there were no episodes of severe hypoglycaemia.

Conclusion

A non‐calorie–restricted LCD high in fat has significant beneficial effects on glycaemic control and body composition, and does not adversely affect cardiovascular risk factors in patients with T2D. Reducing carbohydrate intake to 10‐25 E% appears to be an effective and safe nutritional approach with respect to classical cardiovascular risk factors and hypoglycaemia.
Impact of loss‐of‐function of FATTY ACID DESATURASE 7 in Arabidopsis thaliana on the green peach aphid, Myzus persicae, and the cabbage aphid, Brevicoryne brassicae
Authors: Fischer Hillary D. , Goggin Fiona L.
Published: January 2022

The FATTY ACID DESATURASE 7 (FAD7) enzyme is widely conserved across many groups of plants and influences resistance to multiple stresses, including aphid infestation. In the model plant Arabidopsis thaliana (L.) Heynh. (Brassicaceae), a loss‐of‐function mutation in the FAD7 gene decreases population growth of a generalist herbivore, the green peach aphid (GPA), Myzus persicae (Sulzer) (Hemiptera: Aphididae). This study used multiple bioassay designs to further characterize the effects of a fad7 mutant on the GPA, and also to determine whether fad7 impacts a specialist herbivore, the cabbage aphid (CA), Brevicoryne brassicae L. (Hemiptera: Aphididae). In choice assays, when presented with wild‐type A. thaliana (Col‐0) or fad7, neither GPA nor CA showed a preference between genotypes within 48 h. In no‐choice assays the fad7 mutation decreased the overall population growth of GPA, with significant differences in juvenile production occurring as early as 48 h after infestation. In contrast, CA showed comparable population growth on fad7 and Col‐0 at all time points, from 24 to 144 h (6 days). No‐choice assays also demonstrated that the fad7 mutation increased GPA development time and reduced fecundity but did not influence the mortality rates of adults or juveniles, or the weight of newly emerged adults reared on fad7. These results indicate that aphid resistance in the fad7 mutant is species‐specific, and that it impacts the population growth of GPA solely through antibiosis, decreasing adult fecundity and increasing juvenile development time.
Common principles in the lateralization of auditory cortex structure and function for vocal communication in primates and rodents
Authors: Ruthig Philip , Schönwiesner Marc
Published: January 2022

This review summarizes recent findings on the lateralization of communicative sound processing in the auditory cortex (AC) of humans, non‐human primates and rodents. Functional imaging in humans has demonstrated a left hemispheric preference for some acoustic features of speech, but it is unclear to which degree this is caused by bottom‐up acoustic feature selectivity or top‐down modulation from language areas. Although non‐human primates show a less pronounced functional lateralization in AC, the properties of AC fields and behavioural asymmetries are qualitatively similar. Rodent studies demonstrate microstructural circuits that might underlie bottom‐up acoustic feature selectivity in both hemispheres. Functionally, the left AC in the mouse appears to be specifically tuned to communication calls, whereas the right AC may have a more ‘generalist’ role. Rodents also show anatomical AC lateralization, such as differences in size and connectivity. Several of these functional and anatomical characteristics are also lateralized in human AC. Thus, complex vocal communication processing shares common features among rodents and primates. We argue that a synthesis of results from humans, non‐human primates and rodents is necessary to identify the neural circuitry of vocal communication processing. However, data from different species and methods are often difficult to compare. Recent advances may enable better integration of methods across species. Efforts to standardize data formats and analysis tools would benefit comparative research and enable synergies between psychological and biological research in the area of vocal communication processing.
Epilepsy‐related stigma and attitudes: Systematic review of screening instruments and interventions ‐ Report by the International League Against Epilepsy Task Force on Stigma in Epilepsy
Authors: Austin Joan K. , Birbeck Gretchen , Parko Karen , Kwon Churl‐Su , Fernandes Paula T. , Braga Patricia , Fiest Kirsten M. , Ali Amza , Cross J. Helen , de Boer Hanneke , Dua Tarun , Haut Sheryl R. , Jacoby Ann , Lorenzetti Diane L. , Mifsud Janet , Moshé Solomon L. , Tripathi Manjari , Wiebe Samuel , Jette Nathalie
Published: January 2022

Objective

This is a systematic review aimed at summarizing the evidence related to instruments that have been developed to measure stigma or attitudes toward epilepsy and on stigma‐reducing interventions.

Methods

This review followed the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) standards. A broad literature search (1985–2019) was performed in 13 databases. Articles were included if they described the development and testing of psychometric properties of an epilepsy‐related stigma or attitude scale or stigma‐reducing interventions. Two reviewers independently screened abstracts, reviewed full‐text articles, and extracted data. Basic descriptive statistics are reported.

Results

We identified 4234 abstracts, of which 893 were reviewed as full‐text articles. Of these, 38 met inclusion criteria for an instrument development study and 30 as a stigma‐reduction intervention study. Most instruments were initially developed using well‐established methods and were tested in relatively large samples. Most intervention studies involved educational programs for adults with pre‐ and post‐evaluations of attitudes toward people with epilepsy. Intervention studies often failed to use standardized instruments to quantify stigmatizing attitudes, were generally underpowered, and often found no evidence of benefit or the benefit was not sustained. Six intervention studies with stigma as the primary outcome had fewer design flaws and showed benefit. Very few or no instruments were validated for regional languages or culture, and there were very few interventions tested in some regions.

Significance

Investigators in regions without instruments should consider translating and further developing existing instruments rather than initiating the development of new instruments. Very few stigma‐reduction intervention studies for epilepsy have been conducted, study methodology in general was poor, and standardized instruments were rarely used to measure outcomes. To accelerate the development of effective epilepsy stigma‐reduction interventions, a paradigm shift from disease‐specific, siloed trials to collaborative, cross‐disciplinary platforms based upon unified theories of stigma transcending individual conditions will be needed.
Toward healthier futures in post‐pandemic times: Political ecology, racial capitalism, and black feminist approaches to care
Authors: Neely Abigail H. , Lopez Patricia J.
Published: January 2022

The COVID‐19 pandemic and state violence converged in the U.S. in 2020 highlighting the uneven distribution of illness and death. In this article, we mobilize three bodies of literature–political ecologies of health and the body, Black geographies and racial capitalism, and Black feminist work on care—to understand the disproportionate impacts of the COVID‐19 pandemic on Black, Brown, Indigenous, and Asian people, and to imagine different, more just futures. We argue that these literatures center relationships, enabling an analysis that incorporates viruses and cellular processes, histories of racism, power differences, and political economy. We conclude by taking inspiration from the uprisings and Black feminism to envision a more caring future that nurtures relationships.
New power configurations: City mobilization and policy change
Authors: Thouez Colleen
Published: January 2022

This article describes the implications of cities rising as international actors in the field of migration policy with a look at how they mobilize in national and inter‐regional contexts. What is notable about the current period are new configurations of power between cities that are more sophisticated than the standard best practice sharing of traditional inter‐city networks. The author has direct insights into the two case studies presented, and the information gathered derives in large measure from the author's conversations, relationships, and role in the activities described. The article presents assumptions on how these new configurations of power will influence global cooperation, pointing towards a redesign of governance in which local knowledge informs national policy, local action drives national response, and local needs trigger global cooperation.
Peracetic acid activity on biofilm formed by Escherichia coli isolated from an industrial water system
Authors: Farjami A. , Hatami M.S. , Siahi-Shadbad M.R. , Lotfipour F.
Published: January 2022

One of the major problems in industrial water systems is the generation of biofilm, which is resistant to antimicrobial agents and causes failure of sanitization policy. This work aimed to study the anti-biofilm activity of peracetic acid (PAA) at contact times and temperatures combinations. To this end, a 96-well microtiter-based calorimetric method was applied in in vitro biofilm production using Escherichia coli, isolated from the water supply system of a pharmaceutical plant. The phenotypic and phylogenetic tests confirmed that the isolated bacteria belong to strains of Escherichia coli. The anti-biofilm activity of peracetic acid on formed biofilm was investigated at concentrations of 0·15–0·5% for a contact time of 5–15 min at 20–60°C. The maximum biofilm formation by MTP method using an Escherichia coli isolate was achieved in 96-h incubation in TSB containing wells at 37°C. Biofilm formation rate shown to be high by the environmental isolate compared with that of standard strain. PAA at concentrations above 0·25%, the temperature of 40°C and a minimum of 10 min of contact time was effective in the eradication of biofilm in an MTP-based system.
Role of faculty characteristics in failing to fail in clinical clerkships
Authors: Swails Jennifer L. , Gadgil Meghana A. , Goodrum Heath , Gupta Resmi , Rahbar Mohammad H. , Bernstam Elmer V.
Published: January 2022

Introduction

In the context of competency‐based medical education, poor student performance must be accurately documented to allow learners to improve and to protect the public. However, faculty may be reluctant to provide evaluations that could be perceived as negative, and clerkship directors report that some students pass who should have failed. Student perception of faculty may be considered in faculty promotion, teaching awards, and leadership positions. Therefore, faculty of lower academic rank may perceive themselves to be more vulnerable and, therefore, be less likely to document poor student performance. This study investigated faculty characteristics associated with low performance evaluations (LPEs).

Method

The authors analysed individual faculty evaluations of medical students who completed the third‐year clerkships over 15 years using a generalised mixed regression model to assess the association of evaluator academic rank with likelihood of an LPE. Other available factors related to experience or academic vulnerability were incorporated including faculty age, race, ethnicity, and gender.

Results

The authors identified 50 120 evaluations by 585 faculty on 3447 students between January 2007 and April 2021. Faculty were more likely to give LPEs at the midpoint (4.9%), compared with the final (1.6%), evaluation (odds ratio [OR] = 4.004, 95% confidence interval [CI] [3.59, 4.53]; p < 0.001). The likelihood of LPE decreased significantly during the 15‐year study period (OR = 0.94 [0.90, 0.97]; p < 0.01). Full professors were significantly more likely to give an LPE than assistant professors (OR = 1.62 [1.08, 2.43]; p = 0.02). Women were more likely to give LPEs than men (OR = 1.88 [1.37, 2.58]; p 0.01). Other faculty characteristics including race and experience were not associated with LPE.

Conclusions

The number of LPEs decreased over time, and senior faculty were more likely to document poor medical student performance compared with assistant professors.
Exploring rural and remote patients' experiences of health services for kidney disease in Aotearoa New Zealand: An in‐depth interview study
Authors: Walker Rachael C. , Hay Sandra , Walker Curtis , Tipene‐Leach David , Palmer Suetonia C.
Published: January 2022

Aims

People with chronic kidney disease (CKD) living in rural communities have increased risks of death, morbidity, hospitalization and poorer quality of life compared with people with CKD living in urban areas. This study explores the experiences and perceptions of rural and remote patients and families in relation to accessing health services for kidney disease in Aotearoa New Zealand.

Methods

We conducted an In‐depth interview study. We purposively sampled adult patients with CKD and their caregivers who lived further than 100 km (62 miles) or more than 1 h drive from their nearest dialysis or transplant centre. Qualitative data were analyzed inductively to generate themes, subthemes and a conceptual framework.

Results

Of 35 participants, including 26 patients and nine caregivers, 51% were female, 71% travelled between 1 and 3 h to their nearest renal unit, and the remainder, between 3 and 6 h. We identified five themes and related subthemes: intense psychological impact of rurality; pressure of extended periods away from home; services not designed for rural and remote living; suffering from financial losses; and poor communication.

Conclusion

Rural and remote patients with CKD and their caregivers face the added challenges of separation from family, social and community support and financial burden, which can have profound consequences on their psychological and physical well‐being and that of their families.
Intraoperative cerebral oxygen saturation and neurological outcomes following surgical management of necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: Julien‐Marsollier Florence , Cholet Clementine , Coeffic Adrien , Dupont Thibault , Gauthier Thibault , Loiselle Maud , Brouns Kelly , Bonnard Arnaud , Biran Valerie , Brasher Christopher , Dahmani Souhayl
Published: January 2022

Background

The goal of the present study was to investigate intraoperative factors associated with major neurological complications at 1 year following surgery for necrotizing enterocolitis.

Material and Methods

The study consisted of a retrospective review of medical charts of patients operated for over one calendar year in one institution. Data collected included demographic data, cardiac resuscitation at birth, Bell classification, antibiotics usage, time of day of surgery, surgical technique, surgical duration, type of ventilation, intraoperative vasoactive agents, and albumin use, nadir cerebral saturation, the decrease in cerebral saturation from baseline, the time period when cerebral saturation was at least 20% below baseline, and the mean arterial pressure at nadir cerebral saturation. Reported follow‐up complications were assessed during formal neonatologist consultation and additional imaging exploration as needed. Analyses included descriptive statistics, and univariable and multivariable statistics.

Results

The study included 32 patients with no prior clinical neurological complications, of which 25 had normal cerebral imaging. Severe neurological complications occurred in nine patients at 1 year: Intraventricular hemorrhage (N = 2) and Periventricular leukomalacia (N = 7). However, preoperative cerebral imaging was lacking in seven patients. Consequently, the observed neurological complications at 1 year might be present before the surgery. Multivariable analysis found the decrease in cerebral saturation ≥36% from baseline as the only factor associated with the occurrence of those complications.

Conclusion

Intraoperative decrease of cerebral oxygen saturation below ≥36% from baseline is associated with severe neurological complications in neonates undergoing surgery for necrotizing enterocolitis.
Mechanical stress acclimation in plants: Linking hormones and somatic memory to thigmomorphogenesis
Authors: Brenya Eric , Pervin Mahfuza , Chen Zhong‐Hua , Tissue David T. , Johnson Scott , Braam Janet , Cazzonelli Christopher I.
Published: January 2022

A single event of mechanical stimulation is perceived by mechanoreceptors that transduce rapid transient signalling to regulate gene expression. Prolonged mechanical stress for days to weeks culminates in cellular changes that strengthen the plant architecture leading to thigmomorphogenesis. The convergence of multiple signalling pathways regulates mechanically induced tolerance to numerous biotic and abiotic stresses. Emerging evidence showed prolonged mechanical stimulation can modify the baseline level of gene expression in naive tissues, heighten gene expression, and prime disease resistance upon a subsequent pathogen encounter. The phenotypes of thigmomorphogenesis can persist throughout growth without continued stimulation, revealing somatic‐stress memory. Epigenetic processes regulate TOUCH gene expression and could program transcriptional memory in differentiating cells to program thigmomorphogenesis. We discuss the early perception, gene regulatory and phytohormone pathways that facilitate thigmomorphogenesis and mechanical stress acclimation in Arabidopsis and other plant species. We provide insights regarding: (1) the regulatory mechanisms induced by single or prolonged events of mechanical stress, (2) how mechanical stress confers transcriptional memory to induce cross‐acclimation to future stress, and (3) why thigmomorphogenesis might resemble an epigenetic phenomenon. Deeper knowledge of how prolonged mechanical stimulation programs somatic memory and primes defence acclimation could transform solutions to improve agricultural sustainability in stressful environments.
Xylem embolism spread is largely prevented by interconduit pit membranes until the majority of conduits are gas‐filled
Authors: Avila Rodrigo T. , Guan Xinyi , Kane Cade N. , Cardoso Amanda A. , Batz Timothy A. , DaMatta Fábio M. , Jansen Steven , McAdam Scott A. M.
Published: January 2022

Xylem embolism resistance varies across species influencing drought tolerance, yet little is known about the determinants of the embolism resistance of an individual conduit. Here we conducted an experiment using the optical vulnerability method to test whether individual conduits have a specific water potential threshold for embolism formation and whether pre‐existing embolism in neighbouring conduits alters this threshold. Observations were made on a diverse sample of angiosperm and conifer species through a cycle of dehydration, rehydration and subsequent dehydration to death. Upon rehydration after the formation of embolism, no refilling was observed. When little pre‐existing embolism was present, xylem conduits had a conserved, individual embolism‐resistance threshold that varied across the population of conduits. The consequence of a variable conduit‐specific embolism threshold is that a small degree of pre‐existing embolism in the xylem results in apparently more resistant xylem in subsequent dehydrations, particularly in angiosperms with vessels. While our results suggest that pit membranes separating xylem conduits are critical for maintaining a conserved individual conduit threshold for embolism when little pre‐existing embolism is present, as the percentage of embolized conduits increases, gas movement, local pressure differences and connectivity between conduits increasingly contribute to embolism spread.
Designing internal innovation contests
Authors: Nittala Lakshminarayana , Erat Sanjiv , Krishnan Vish
Published: January 2022

Innovation contests within firms offer the potential to tap latent employee expertise across the organization and expand innovation beyond the core R&D teams. Still, firms undertaking an internal contest, unlike the more commonly studied external contests, incur significant opportunity costs when employees divert their efforts toward the contest (and away from their routine work). Managing this key challenge forms the focus of the current study, with the overarching question being How should firms design internal contests? Motivated by fieldwork in electronics companies, we develop an application‐driven model that explicitly captures the fundamental trade‐off between incurring greater opportunity cost (of lost routine work) and increasing participation and contest effort. Analysis of our model demonstrates that for problem types that do not need significant effort for solution generation, the optimal contest reward is non‐monotonic in both the problem uncertainty and the wage rate of the participating employees. In case of more complex problems that require contestants to exert some minimal effort, the firm uses the reward decision to restrict participation and to ensure that contestants exert the required effort. In this case, the optimal reward increases with problem uncertainty, thereby incentivizing more contestants to enter. While the firm can attempt to mitigate the loss due to opportunity costs by organizing internal contests during employee leisure time, we identify conditions under which it is still optimal to organize these contests during working hours.