bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Characterisation of the genetic relationship between the domains of sleep and circadian‐related behaviours with substance use phenotypes
Authors: Hatoum Alexander S. , Winiger Evan A. , Morrison Claire L. , Johnson Emma C. , Agrawal Arpana
Published: May 2022

Sleep problems and substance use frequently co‐occur. While substance use can result in specific sleep deficits, genetic pleiotropy could explain part of the relationship between sleep and substance use and use disorders. Here we use the largest publicly available genome‐wide summary statistics of substance use behaviours (N = 79,729–632,802) and sleep/activity phenotypes to date (N = 85,502–449,734) to (1) assess the genetic overlap between substance use behaviours and both sleep and circadian‐related activity measures, (2) estimate clusters from genetic correlations and (3) test processes of causality versus genetic pleiotropy. We found 31 genetic correlations between substance use and sleep/activity after Bonferroni correction. These patterns of overlap were represented by two genetic clusters: (1) tobacco use severity (age of first regular tobacco use and smoking cessation) and sleep health (sleep duration, sleep efficiency and chronotype) and (2) substance consumption/problematic use (drinks per day and cigarettes per day, cannabis use disorder, opioid use disorder and problematic alcohol use) and sleep problems (insomnia, self‐reported short sleep duration, increased number of sleep episodes, increased sleep duration variability and diurnal inactivity) and measures of circadian‐related activity (L5, M10 and sleep midpoint). Latent causal variable analyses determined that horizontal pleiotropy (rather than genetic causality) underlies a majority of the associations between substance use and sleep/circadian related measures, except one plausible genetically causal relationship for opioid use disorder on self‐reported long sleep duration. Results show that shared genetics are likely a mechanism that is at least partly responsible for the overlap between sleep and substance use traits.
Corporate environmental responsibility and bank loans
Authors: Cai Li , He Chaohua
Published: May 2022

Drawing on both qualitative analyses of banks' sustainability reports and quantitative analyses of 11,538 bank loans from 1993 to 2018, we explore interactions between corporate environmental responsibility (CER) and bank loan contracting. We find CER dominates how corporate social responsibility (CSR) affects bank loans. We propose a two‐way relationship between CER and bank loans. Firms with strong CER performance receive cheaper bank loans due to banks' environmental risk management efforts. These banks provide services to corporate borrowers that have a positive influence on borrowers' ongoing environmental performance.
Aboveground carbon stocks, woody and litter productivity along an elevational gradient in the Rwenzori Mountains, Uganda
Authors: Okello Joseph , Bauters Marijn , Verbeeck Hans , Kasenene John , Boeckx Pascal
Published: May 2022

Montane forests are characterized by high biodiversity, endemism, and strong elevational environmental gradients. The latter attribute makes them also suitable as a “natural laboratory” for studying the effects of environmental parameters on ecosystem functions. To provide better insight into the carbon cycle of Afromontane ecosystems, we used an elevational gradient approach to quantify carbon stocks, woody and litter productivity, and their constraining factors. Twenty plots were established, covering five elevations from Kibale Forest at 1250 m to 3000 m in the Rwenzori Mountains. Results revealed aboveground carbon stocks of between 185.4 ± 48.9 and 70.8 ± 18.6 Mg C ha−1 at 1250–1300 and 2700–3000 m, respectively. Aboveground carbon tended to decrease with elevation, but this trend was not significant. This was due to similarities in stem diameter combined with different effects of tree height and stem density. Similarly, woody productivity did not change with elevation, ranging from 8.3 ± 4.1 to 3.4 ± 1.5 Mg C ha−1 year−1 at 2500–2600 and 2700–3000 m, respectively. However, litter productivity decreased linearly by 0.14 ± 0.04 Mg C ha−1 year−1 per 100 m of elevation increase, ranging from 4.0 ± 0.7 Mg C ha−1 year−1 at 1750–1850 m to 1.2 Mg C ha−1 year−1 at 2700–3000 m. Topsoil physicochemical properties varied with elevation, but showed no significant relationship with carbon stocks and woody productivity. However, litter productivity increased with mean soil temperature, whereas it decreased with soil total nitrogen.
Trends in use of specialized formula for managing cow's milk allergy in young children
Authors: Mehta Shriya , Allen Hilary I. , Campbell Dianne E. , Arntsen Karoline Fagerli , Simpson Melanie Rae , Boyle Robert J.
Published: May 2022

Background

Excessive use of specialized formula for cow's milk allergy was reported in England, but complete analysis has not been undertaken and trends in other countries are unknown. Some specialized formula products, especially amino‐acid formula (AAF), have high free sugars content. We evaluated specialized formula trends in countries with public databases documenting national prescription rates.

Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis of national prescription databases in the United Kingdom, Norway and Australia. Outcomes were volume and cost of specialized formula, and proportion of infants prescribed specialized formula. Expected volumes assumed 1% cow's milk allergy incidence and similar formula feeding rates between infants with and without milk allergy.

Results

Prescribed volumes of specialized formula for infants rose 2.8‐fold in England from 2007 to 2018, with similar trends in other regions of the United Kingdom. Volumes rose 2.2‐fold in Norway from 2009 to 2020 and 3.2‐fold in Australia from 2001 to 2012. In 2020, total volumes were 9.7‐ to 12.6‐fold greater than expected in England, 8.3‐ to 15.6‐fold greater than expected in Norway and 3.3‐ to 4.5‐fold greater than expected in Australia, where prescribing restrictions were introduced in 2012. In Norway, the proportion of infants prescribed specialized formula increased from 2.2% in 2009 to 6.9% in 2020, or 11.2‐ to 13.3‐fold greater than expected. In 2020, specialized formula for infants cost US$117 (103 euro) per birth in England, US$93 (82 euro) in Norway and US$27 (23 euro) in Australia. Soya formula prescriptions exceeded expected volumes 5.5‐ to 6.4‐fold in England in 1994 and subsequently declined, co‐incident with public health concerns regarding soya formula safety. In 2020, 30%–50% of prescribed specialized formula across the three countries was AAF.

Conclusions

In England, Norway and Australia, specialized formula prescriptions increased in the early 21st century and exceeded expected levels. Unnecessary specialized formula use may make a significant contribution to free sugars consumption in young children.
Implementation of patient‐reported outcome measures in a heart transplant recipient registry: First step toward a patient‐centered approach
Authors: Mahmoudi Redouane , Moitie Tiphaine , Dorent Richard , Guillemin Francis , Couchoud Cécile
Published: May 2022

Background

Heart transplantation (HTX) is a well‐established treatment for suitable patients with end‐stage heart failure, intended to prolong their survival and improve their health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL). No international consensus exists, however, about the preferred patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) and their measures (PROMs) for heart transplant recipients. The purpose of this study, the first step in a mixed‐method investigation, was to review the PROMs developed and used in this population to identify the instruments for measuring HR‐QoL and adherence to immunosuppressive medications most appropriate for heart transplant patients.

Methods

This systematic search of the literature in the PubMed database focused on the assessment of PROMs for patients after HTX. We analyzed 66 studies with cross‐sectional, 28 with longitudinal, and 2 with mixed‐methods designs, as well as 6 literature reviews.

Results

These 102 articles used 115 different PROMs, which we categorized as generic HR‐QoL instruments (n = 19), domain‐specific instruments (n = 71), heart disease‐specific instruments (n = 9), and heart transplant‐specific instruments (n = 16). They cover different dimensions of HR‐QoL and of immunosuppressive‐drug experience, with diverse numbers of items, types of scales, and psychometric properties.

Conclusions

Despite the abundance of instruments, PROMs for HTX can be improved to meet other patient expectations (i.e., by including important issues such as coping strategies, employment, social support, sexual relationships, spirituality, and beliefs), while paying attention to ease of use, reliability, validity, and the contribution of new technologies. A qualitative approach will complete our project of developing a patient‐centered instrument for HTX patients.
Off‐label underdosing of four individual NOACs in patients with nonvalvular atrial fibrillation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of observational studies
Authors: Sang Chuanlan , Chen Jiming , Sun Junyi , Lai Yuhui , Liu Xiao , Zhu Wengen
Published: May 2022

Background

Although several meta‐analyses have examined the effects of off‐label underdosing of nonvitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulants (NOACs) compared with their recommended doses in patients with atrial fibrillation (AF), they combined different kinds of NOACs in their primary analyses. Herein, we first conducted a meta‐analysis to separately assess the effects of off‐label underdosing versus on‐label dosing of four individual NOACs on adverse outcomes in the AF population.

Methods

The PubMed and Embase database were systemically searched until November 2021 to identify the relevant studies. Adjusted hazard ratios (HRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were pooled by utilizing a random‐effects model.

Results

A total of nine studies with 144,797 patients taking NOACs were included in the meta‐analysis. In the pooled analysis, off‐label underdosing of rivaroxaban was related to an increased risk of stroke or systemic embolism (HR = 1.31, 95% CI 1.05–1.63; p = .02), whereas off‐label underdosing of apixaban was associated with a higher risk of all‐cause death (HR = 1.21, 95% CI 1.05–1.40; p = .01). When comparing off‐label underdosing versus on‐label dosing of dabigatran or edoxaban, no differences were found in the primary and secondary clinical outcomes.

Conclusion

Off‐label underdosing of rivaroxaban may increase the risk of stroke or systematic embolism, whereas off‐label underdosing of apixaban may heighten the incidence of all‐cause death.
Does trade clustering reduce trading costs? Evidence from periodicity in algorithmic trading
Authors: Muravyev Dmitriy , Picard Joerg
Published: May 2022

We study how trading activity affects liquidity and volatility by introducing two periodicities in trading activity. First, trades and quote updates are much more frequent within the first 100 ms of a second than during its remainder. Second, trading activity often spikes at intervals of exactly one second. For these two periodicities, higher trade and quote intensities lead to higher volatility, but they do not significantly affect stock liquidity. These periodicities are likely caused by algorithms that trade predictably by repeating instructions in loops with round start times and time increments. Such predictable behavior may provide an example of behavioral biases in trading algorithms.
South African community health workers' pursuit of occupational security
Authors: van de Ruit Catherine , Breckenridge Alexandra
Published: May 2022

Community health workers (CHWs) are central to the global health response to crises like the AIDS epidemic. Yet community health work remains undervalued and undercompensated worldwide owing in large part to the gendered and racialized contexts of care work. This paper investigates the possibility of occupational security for CHWs by comparing two cases from South Africa's response to AIDS. The first draws on ethnographic research (2007–2009) in rural KwaZulu‐Natal province and documents the fraught formation of a union representing CHWs. The second examines legal action in the Free State province for a group of CHWs known as the Bophelo House 94, who were arrested and criminally charged in June 2014 after protesting their sudden dismissal by the government. This case comparison finds that collective action has thus far had limited effects on CHWs' position as a nascent occupation. The South African Ministry of Health has obstructed CHW professionalization, and non‐state actors' involvement has been a mixture of benefit and impediment: some social justice agencies have facilitated CHW advocacy, while many AIDS service organizations have cooperated with the state and exacerbated the precarity of CHWs' working conditions. However, the consolidation of CHW work roles—owing to advances in AIDS prevention and treatment—holds promise for future CHW collective organization.
A systematic review on traditional, ayurvedic, and herbal approaches to treat solar erythema
Authors: Balkrishna Acharya , Singh Shalini , Srivastava Deepika , Mishra Shalini , Sharma Shivani , Mishra Rajesh , Arya Vedpriya
Published: May 2022

Solar erythema is a kind of radiation burn that strikes living tissue, such as skin, that arises from overexposure to UV radiation often from the sun. Ordinary symptoms of solar erythema include reddish skin, specifically warm to touch, overall tiredness, hurting, and mild whirl. Sunscreen contains SPF value, which measures how much ultraviolet radiation is needed to cause sunburn on sunscreen‐applied skin, which is proportional to the quantity of solar energy needed to cause sunburn on unprotected skin. Between 30 and 50 SPF value is sufficient to protect from sunburn, especially for the people who are more sensitive to sunburn. Sunscreen also protects from sun damage including dark spots and discoloration and helps to keep skin smooth, spotless, and more even. Chemical‐based sunscreen is widely used because it effectively protects the skin from sun damage, but it clogs pores and can be problematic for sensitive skin as it can cause itching or stinging of the skin and pus in the hair follicles. On the other hand, herbal sunscreen absorbs light preferentially over the range of 280–320 mm without causing any harm to the skin and eyes. Ayurveda rejuvenates dull skin by regaining the skin's natural glow and radiance. This review concludes the damaging and harmful effects of UV rays, along with various traditional, ayurvedic, and herbal approaches to treat solar erythema naturally.
Summary of the Clinical Practice Guidelines for Penile Cancer 2021 by the Japanese Urological Association
Authors: Yamaguchi Takahiro , Sugiyama Yutaka , Tanaka Toshiaki , Kimura Tomokazu , Yumura Yasushi , Nakano Masahiro , Sugiyama Takayuki , Miura Noriyoshi , Goya Masato , Yamamoto Akira , Takahashi Satoru , Miura Yuji , Tsuzuki Toyonori , Masumori Naoya , Nishiyama Hiroyuki , Yao Masahiro , Koie Takuya , Miyake Hideaki , Saika Takashi , Saito Seiichi , Akimoto Tetsuo , Tamada Tsutomu , Ando Yuichi , Takahashi Satoru , Suzuki Takaaki , Hinotsu Shiro , Kamba Tomomi
Published: May 2022

Penile cancer is a rare cancer for which no medical guidelines have been established before in Japan. These guidelines aim to standardize, as much as possible, the therapeutic modality for penile cancer, for which empirical evidence is limited on a global scale, thereby bolstering therapeutic outcomes for patients with penile cancer. The new guidelines conform to the Minds Guide for Developing Clinical Practice Guidelines (2017) as much as possible. However, virtually no randomized comparative studies and meta‐analyses based on such randomized studies have been conducted. Therefore, only the findings available at present were listed after conducting an exhaustive literature review of items with extremely low evidence levels and for which bodies of evidence and grades of recommendation were not evaluated. Clinical questions were set for items with a relatively large number of studies, including retrospective studies. However, since it is virtually impracticable to summarize bodies of evidence by systematic reviews, recommendation grades and evidence levels were discussed and determined by the consensus panel of the Preparatory Committee. The following were outlined: epidemiological, pathological, diagnostic, therapeutic, follow‐up, and quality of life‐related findings. Additionally, seven clinical questions were established to determine recommendation grades and evidence levels. We hope that these guidelines will prove to be useful to medical professionals engaged in clinical practice related to penile cancer in Japan and anticipate that critical reviews of the guidelines will lead to further refinement of the next edition.
Colloidal co‐assembly of dual‐phased ceramic/metal particles toward lightweight, hierarchically structured, and mechanically robust alumina foam
Authors: Ren Bo , Liu Jingjing , Li Bin , Liu Chuanbao , Chen Haiyang , Liu Jie , Li Guangqi , Chen Junhong
Published: May 2022

Ceramic foams constructed by aqueous‐based foam templating have demonstrated great potential in industrial and research applications. However, a multiple‐phased suspension with inherently improved complexity inevitably leads to a severe deterioration of foam stability. Herein, we proposed a colloidal co‐assembly strategy that introduces Al–Al2O3 dual‐phased particles for constructing ultralight yet mechanically robust cellular ceramics. Owing to the Al2O3 oxidation layer on Al particles, both of Al and Al2O3 suspensions demonstrated similar zeta potential and rheological properties, enabling a stable foam structure after colloidal co‐assembly. High‐temperature oxidation of Al particles contributed to the reinforcement of cell wall and formation of Al2O3 whiskers. The calcined products demonstrated a lightweight structure (0.31 g cm−3), a robust compressive strength (3.64 MPa) at a porosity level of 88.5%, and a relatively high specific surface area (14.7 m2 g−1). The current strategy paves the way for the construction of high‐performance ceramic foams for a broad range of applications.
Shorter distance between the esophagus and the left atrium is associated with higher rates of esophageal thermal injury after radiofrequency ablation
Authors: Ishidoya Yuki , Kwan Eugene , Dosdall Derek J. , Macleod Rob S. , Navaravong Leenhapong , Steinberg Benjamin A. , Jared Bunch T. , Ranjan Ravi
Published: May 2022

Background

Esophageal thermal injury (ETI) is a known and potentially serious complication of catheter ablation for atrial fibrillation. We intended to evaluate the distance between the esophagus and the left atrium posterior wall (LAPW) and its association with esophageal thermal injury.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 73 patients who underwent esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) after LA radiofrequency catheter ablation for symptomatic atrial fibrillation and pre‐ablation magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was used to identify the minimum distance between the inner lumen of the esophagus and the ablated atrial endocardium (pre‐ablation atrial esophageal distance; pre‐AED) and occurrence of ETI. Parameters of ablation index (AI, Visitag Surpoint) were collected in 30 patients from the CARTO3 system and compared with assess if ablation strategies and AI further impacted risk of ETI.

Results

Pre‐AED was significantly larger in patients without ETI than those with ETI (5.23 ± 0.96 mm vs. 4.31 ± 0.75 mm, p < .001). Pre‐AED showed high accuracy for predicting ETI with the best cutoff value of 4.37 mm. AI was statistically comparable between Visitag lesion markers with and without associated esophageal late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) detected by postablation MRI in the low‐power long‐duration ablation group (LPLD, 25‐40 W for 10–30 s, 393.16 [308.62–408.86] vs. 406.58 [364.38–451.22], p = .16) and high‐power short‐duration group (HPSD, 50 W for 5–10 s, 336.14 [299.66–380.11] vs. 330.54 [286.21–384.71], p = .53), respectively.

Conclusion

Measuring the distance between the LA and the esophagus in pre‐ablation LGE‐MRI could be helpful in predicting ETI after LAPW ablation.
Characteristics and mathematical modeling of apple slice drying in an electrohydrodynamic system with a needle‐plate electrode
Authors: Li Bowen , Li Xingshu , Zhao Yixue , Xiong Xiufang , Ding Xinting
Published: May 2022

The drying of apple slices in an electrohydrodynamic (EHD) system with a needle‐plate electrode was characterized and mathematically modeled at voltages of 30, 40, and 50 kV and with distances between needles of 5, 6, and 7 cm. The results showed that the drying rate, effective water diffusion coefficient, and rehydration ratio of the apple slices, and specific energy consumption of drying, all increased with increasing voltage. Initially, there was a period when the drying rate was approximately constant in the low‐voltage EHD, but not in the high voltage conditions. At the same voltage, the drying rate was highest when the distance between needles was 6 cm. The voltage and distance between needles had a significant (p < .05) interactive effect on the effective water diffusion coefficient and specific energy consumption, but not on the rehydration ratio. General mathematical models for drying can be used to represent the drying behavior of apple slices. The Midilli and Kucuk model and the Logarithmic model had the best fits, with correlation coefficients of 0.998803 and 0.998267, respectively. Predictive functions for the moisture ratio of apple slices based on voltage and distance between needles were established and verified. The results indicated that the Logarithmic model could more accurately predict the moisture ratio of apple slices dried using the EHD method.

Practical Applications

As a new drying technology, electrohydrodynamic (EHD) drying has unequaled advantages. According to the results, using the appropriate voltage and distance between needles improves not only drying efficiency, but also the rehydration ratio of apple slices, which reflects the quality of dried products. The Logarithmic model can accurately predict the EHD drying behavior of apple slices, which is of great significance in optimizing actual production.
An automated cucumber inspection system based on neural network
Authors: Gan Yee‐Siang , Luo Shi‐Hao , Li Chih‐Hsueh , Chung Shih‐Wei , Liong Sze‐Teng , Tan Lit‐Ken
Published: May 2022

Precision agriculture and smart farming have been gaining importance in recent years due to the coupled breakthrough of deep learning algorithms in machine vision. This paper aims to develop an end‐to‐end automatic agricultural food grading system based on its visual appearance. The target object considered herein is cucumber as it is one of the vegetables that can be grown in many countries around the world. Particularly, the developed system incorporates both the software and hardware components, in which the geometric properties of a moving cucumber on a conveyor belt can be computed. Concretely, an industrial camera is employed to capture the image of a cucumber. Then, three individual detection systems that perform the cucumber identification, geometry properties approximation, and defect detection, are designed. Finally, if the cucumber is found defective, the PLC motor control will be activated to separate the cucumber into an alternative container. As a result, the proposed algorithms yield promising performances when experimenting on a self‐collected data set, namely “Cuc‐70” that consists of a total of 4620 images. The cucumber identification generates an average WIoU of 93%, volume approximation accuracy of 98%, and defect detection WIoU of 92%. In addition, comprehensive analysis is conducted in order to validate the robustness of the proposed system and the compelling performance executed can be evidenced from the quantitative and qualitative results reported. In the future, this system can be integrated into online automatic sorting and grading for effective manufacturing and production.
Flowability of spray‐dried sapodilla pulp powder
Authors: Lima Antonia Carlota de Souza , Afonso Marcos Rodrigues Amorim , Rodrigues Sueli , Aquino Andréa Cardoso de
Published: May 2022

This study aimed to evaluate the influence of maltodextrin, Arabic gum, and dextrin on phenolic compounds, morphology, and flowability of sapodilla pulp powder obtained in a spray dryer. Sapodilla pulp was characterized by its moisture and total polyphenols. The carriers were individually added to the pulp at a concentration of 20% (m/m), and the samples were dried in a spray dryer. The powders were analyzed for moisture, hygroscopicity, total polyphenols, and particle morphology, and their flowability was evaluated using the Powder Flow Tester (PFT). Total polyphenols of sapodilla pulp (average of 1055.30 mg GAE in 100 g of pulp solids) were more significant than in the powders (457.06 to 635.55 mg GAE in 100 g of pulp solids). The lowest moisture (1.16%) was obtained for maltodextrin. All carriers generated nonhygroscopic powders. The particles showed a rounded shape with greater roughness in samples containing Arabic gum. The powder with dextrin resulted in better flowability characteristics, with a higher flow index and lower compressibility index, Hausner ratio, and wall friction angle. Sapodilla pulp powder was classified as cohesive, with flow indices < 3, compressibility index from 53.2 to 59.9, and Hausner ratio between 2.14 and 2.50. The carriers used influenced the characteristics of sapodilla pulp powders, the Arabic gum promoting greater protection of total polyphenols and dextrin resulting in better flowability characteristics.

Practical Applications

The consumption of tropical fruits has increased in recent years, especially fruits considered exotic. The sapodilla fruit has many health benefits potential, but it has a short shelf life and seasonal crop. This research provides information on the spray‐dried sapodilla pulp powder containing different drying carriers, in order to evaluate the powder flowability behavior. This evaluation was based on particle morphology, wall friction angle, and bulk and tapped densities. It is important to determine the influence of carriers on the powder in order to produce a good quality product.
Determining the frequency and characteristics of Hepatitis C reinfections in North East England
Authors: Askar Sumar , Jelley Ryan , McQue Kate , Allsop Caroline , McCullough Francesca , Miller Carolyn , Taha Yusri , Masson Steven , McPherson Stuart
Published: May 2022

Hepatitis C virus infection (HCV) is common, and injecting drug use is the major risk factor for acquisition. Understanding HCV reinfection following treatment is an important consideration for HCV elimination programmes. The aim of this work was to assess the frequency and patterns of HCV reinfection in our region to develop avoidance strategies. All individuals who completed anti‐HCV treatment with a known outcome in Tyne and Wear, England between January 2016 and May 2021 were included. This was a retrospective analysis of prospectively collected data. HCV reinfection was defined as positive HCV RNA after achieving sustained virological response 12 (SVR12). 788 of 840 patients (76% male; mean age 45.7 ± 11.9 years; 47% Genotype 1; 11% Cirrhosis; 20% started in prison) achieved SVR (94%). 443 patients (56%) had HCV RNA testing post‐SVR after a median 0.82 (range 0.1–5.2) years. 56 reinfections (7.1% of all SVRs and 12.6% of SVRs who had post‐SVR testing) were diagnosed. The median time to reinfection was 1.37 (range 0.1–4.0) years and the rate of reinfection was 10.5 /100 person years. 45 (80%) reinfections became chronic, 17 of whom were retreated and achieved SVR. 5 individuals developed a second reinfection. Younger age was the only factor independently associated with reinfection (HR 0.91 [0.88–0.94] p < .001). In conclusion, HCV reinfection is common and may slow our HCV elimination efforts. In order to address high reinfection rates, harm minimization approaches need improved, and we have implemented an ‘HCV track and trace’ pilot to try to reduce onwards HCV transmission.
Epidemiology and treatment of hepatitis E in the liver transplantation setting: A literature review
Authors: Markakis George E. , Papatheodoridis George V. , Cholongitas Evangelos
Published: May 2022

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a common cause of acute hepatitis in developing countries, but it can also take a chronic course especially in immunocompromised patients. Its epidemiology after liver transplantation (LT) is hard to assess and treatment options are still explored.

Between 2009 and 2020, literature reporting HEV prevalence and treatment in LT recipients was searched and a synthesis was attempted. Sixteen studies reported HEV prevalence in consecutive LT patients: HEV RNA positivity ranged between 0%–1.4% and 0%–7.7% for Western and Eastern cohorts, respectively. In studies published between 2009–2014 and 2015–2020, HEV RNA positivity ranged between 0.35%–1.3% (all European) and 0%–7.7% (European: 0%–1.4%), respectively. Five studies evaluated HEV prevalence in LT recipients with abnormal liver enzymes: HEV RNA positivity was 2.9% in studies published between 2009 and 2014 and from 3.5% to 20% in studies published between 2015 and 2020. Twenty‐seven studies reported HEV treatment in LT recipients: sustained virologic response was achieved in 15% by immunosuppression reduction alone and in 83% of cases by ribavirin regiments.

Chronic HEV infection is affecting LT recipients, mostly those with abnormal liver enzymes and in Eastern countries. HEV diagnoses should be based on PCR techniques. Successful treatment can be achieved with ribavirin in most cases.
Changes in soil chemical properties and plant species composition during primary succession on an oceanic island
Authors: Cabrera Rodríguez Francisco , Otto Rüdiger , Fernández‐Palacios José María
Published: May 2022

Questions

What is the influence of time and environmental factors such as climate and topography on soil chemical properties and composition of vascular plants during primary succession on lava flows of an oceanic island? How is compositional change characterized and which successional stages can be distinguished?

Location

La Palma, Canary Islands.

Methods

We sampled soil properties and vascular plants in 72 plots on a long‐term chronosequence of 10 lava flows ranging in age between 40 and over 20,000 years in the semi‐arid lowlands of La Palma Island. Soil properties were analyzed by general least‐squares models (GLS), while canonical correspondence analysis (CCA), cluster analysis and multiresponse permutation procedures (MRPP) were applied to investigate compositional change.

Results

Soil characteristics and plant species composition during primary succession were strongly affected by substrate age but also by climatic and topographic factors. Values of most soil properties increased with lava flow age, while pH decreased. Soil organic matter, phosphorus, exchangeable calcium and ammonium revealed a positive correlation with mean annual precipitation. Lava flow age was always the most important independent factor determining plant assembly followed by mean annual precipitation. Four successional stages and their composition of indicator species, life strategies and species status could be defined. Alien species did not alter successional trajectories.

Conclusion

Time, climate and topography simultaneously affect soil properties and plant composition during primary succession on lava flows. The climatic windward–leeward gradient on La Palma Island influences plant colonization and soil development in the semi‐arid coastal areas. Favorable conditions (moisture) can speed up primary succession. Compositional changes suggest convergence during primary succession. During the entire colonization process, dominant successional shrubs are endemics, highlighting the importance of evolutionary adaptation to volcanic disturbances.
Prevalence estimation of significant fibrosis because of NASH in Spain combining transient elastography and histology
Authors: Calleja José L. , Rivera‐Esteban Jesús , Aller Rocío , Hernández‐Conde Marta , Abad Javier , Pericàs Juan M. , Benito Hugo G. , Serra Miguel A. , Escudero Amparo , Ampuero Javier , Lucena Ana , Sánchez Yolanda , Arias‐Loste María T. , Iruzubieta Paula , Romero‐Gómez Manuel , Augustin Salvador , Crespo Javier
Published: May 2022

Background & Aims

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has become a major public health problem, but the prevalence of fibrosis associated with non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is largely unknown in the general population. This study aimed to provide an updated estimation of the prevalence of NASH fibrosis in Spain.

Methods

This was an observational, retrospective, cross‐sectional, population‐based study with merged data from two Spanish datasets: a large (N = 12 246) population‐based cohort (ETHON), including transient elastography (TE) data, and a contemporary multi‐centric biopsy‐proven NASH cohort with paired TE data from tertiary centres (N = 501). Prevalence for each NASH fibrosis stage was estimated by crossing TE data from ETHON dataset with histology data from the biopsy‐proven cohort.

Results

From the patients with valid TE in ETHON dataset (N = 11 440), 5.61% (95% confidence interval [95% CI]: 2.53‐11.97) had a liver stiffness measurement (LSM) ≥ 8 kPa. The proportion attributable to NAFLD (using clinical variables and Controlled Attenuation Parameter) was 57.3% and thus, the estimated prevalence of population with LSM ≥ 8 kPa because of NAFLD was 3.21% (95% CI 1.13–8.75). In the biopsy‐proven NASH cohort, 389 patients had LSM ≥ 8 kPa. Among these, 37% did not have significant fibrosis (F2‐4). The estimated prevalence of NASH F2‐3 and cirrhosis in Spain's adult population were 1.33% (95% CI 0.29–5.98) and 0.70% (95% CI 0.10–4.95) respectively.

Conclusions

These estimations provide an accurate picture of the current prevalence of NASH‐related fibrosis in Spain and can serve as reference point for dimensioning the therapeutic efforts that will be required as NASH therapies become available.
Are Subnational Policymakers' Policy Preferences Nationalized? Evidence from Surveys of Township, Municipal, County, and State Officials
Authors: Lee Nathan , Landgrave Michelangelo , Bansak Kirk
Published: May 2022

An ongoing debate in American politics concerns the extent to which subnational politics has become “nationalized.” We advance this debate by collecting issue‐position data on four distinct policy topics from unprecedented national surveys of public officials at both the local and state levels. We then combine this survey data with precinct‐level presidential vote‐share data that is tabulated to match the boundary of each survey respondent's government jurisdiction. In doing so, we demonstrate that national party sorting of subnational officials is substantively and statistically significant across a range of issues with national salience, that it is consistent across local and state levels of government and it cannot be explained by the party sorting of constituents. These findings have implications both for the scope of nationalization as well as its implications for substantive representation.
Brief but Mighty? Sustained L2 Learning and Perceived Psychobehavioral Benefits After Short‐Term Study Abroad
Authors: ZALBIDEA JANIRE , ISSA BERNARD I. , FARETTA–STUTENBERG MANDY
Published: May 2022

Evidence suggests that short‐term study abroad experiences can help advance various dimensions of second language (L2) learners’ linguistic competence. However, the extent to which gains following a brief sojourn are durable and maintained after immersion remains an open question. The present study examined both the immediate and sustained learning outcomes following a short‐term study abroad program by considering L2 Spanish learners’ (a) linguistic gains in global proficiency, oral production, and L2 knowledge, and (b) nonlinguistic gains in perceived psychobehavioral flexibility, a trait that remains underresearched despite its broad relevance to study abroad contexts. Data were collected at the onset and end of a summer study abroad program in Spain, as well as 5 weeks post‐sojourn, after students’ reimmersion in the first language environment. Mixed‐effects models revealed that gains in global proficiency and some aspects of oral production and L2 knowledge, as well as increases in perceived psychobehavioral flexibility, were noticeable at the end of the program and were maintained for several weeks post‐sojourn in the absence of further L2 instruction. Findings provide a first look into the potential of short‐term study abroad for promoting durable developmental changes across linguistic and nonlinguistic domains.
The influence of increasing atmospheric CO2, temperature, and vapor pressure deficit on seawater‐induced tree mortality
Authors: Li Weibin , McDowell Nate G. , Zhang Hongxia , Wang Wenzhi , Mackay D. Scott , Leff Riley , Zhang Peipei , Ward Nicholas D. , Norwood Matt , Yabusaki Steve , Myers‐Pigg Allison N. , Pennington Stephanie C. , Pivovaroff Alexandria L. , Waichler Scott , Xu Chonggang , Bond‐Lamberty Ben , Bailey Vanessa L.
Published: May 2022

Increasing seawater exposure is killing coastal trees globally, with expectations of accelerating mortality with rising sea levels. However, the impact of concomitant changes in atmospheric CO2 concentration, temperature, and vapor pressure deficit (VPD) on seawater‐induced tree mortality is uncertain.

We examined the mechanisms of seawater‐induced mortality under varying climate scenarios using a photosynthetic gain and hydraulic cost optimization model validated against observations in a mature stand of Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis) trees in the Pacific Northwest, USA, that were dying from recent seawater exposure.

The simulations matched well with observations of photosynthesis, transpiration, nonstructural carbohydrates concentrations, leaf water potential, the percentage loss of xylem conductivity, and stand‐level mortality rates. The simulations suggest that seawater‐induced mortality could decrease by c. 16.7% with increasing atmospheric CO2 levels due to reduced risk of carbon starvation. Conversely, rising VPD could increase mortality by c. 5.6% because of increasing risk of hydraulic failure.

Across all scenarios, seawater‐induced mortality was driven by hydraulic failure in the first 2 yr after seawater exposure began, with carbon starvation becoming more important in subsequent years. Changing CO2 and climate appear unlikely to have a significant impact on coastal tree mortality under rising sea levels.
OsTUB1 confers salt insensitivity by interacting with Kinesin13A to stabilize microtubules and ion transporters in rice
Authors: Chen Gaoming , Xuan Wei , Zhao Pingzhi , Yao Xiangmei , Peng Chao , Tian Yunlu , Ye Jian , Wang Baoxiang , He Jun , Chi Wenchao , Yu Jun , Ge Yuwei , Li Jin , Dai Zhaoyang , Xu Dayong , Wang Chunming , Wan Jianmin
Published: May 2022

Salt stress is one of the major environmental factors limiting plant growth and development. Although microtubule (MT) organization is known to be involved in response to salt stress, few tubulin genes have been identified that confer salt insensitivity in plants.

In this study, we identified a MT encoding gene, OsTUB1, that increased the survival rate of rice plants under salt stress by stabilizing MT organization and ion transporters. We found that OsTUB1 interacted with Kinesin13A protein, which was essential for OsTUB1‐regulated MT organization under salt stress.

Further molecular evidence revealed that a OsTUB1–Kinesin13A complex protected rice from salt stress by sustaining membrane‐localized Na+ transporter OsHKT1;5, a key regulator of ionic homeostasis.

Our results shed light on the function of tubulin and kinesin in regulating MT organization and stabilizing Na+ transporters and Na+ flux at the plasma membrane in rice. The identification of the OsTUB1–Kinesin13A complex provides novel genes for salt insensitivity rice breeding in areas with high soil salinity.
The moderating effect of care‐burden on formal caregiver's mental health during COVID‐19
Authors: Karni‐Efrati Ziv , Palgi Yuval , Greenblatt‐Kimron Lee , Bodner Ehud
Published: May 2022

Background

Homecare organisations employ professionals (i.e. gerontologists, nurses, occupational therapists, physiotherapists and social workers) to help their clients gain rights and supervise non‐professional formal caregivers. Formal caregivers, and especially those who work closely with impaired older people, are at greater risk of infecting or being infected by SARS‐Cov‐2 (COVID‐19). During the first waves of COVID‐19, older people were encouraged to stay home; and the care‐burden inflicted on their caregivers has increased.

Objectives

This study examined formal caregiver's mental health during the COVID‐19 pandemic, that is, the association between anxiety and depression symptoms and how care‐burden moderated this association.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey conducted in the home care services sector throughout Israel. A sample of 400 formal caregivers of older people (Mage = 47.7, SD = 13.8) completed a questionnaire regarding their levels of care‐burden, general anxiety symptoms, and depressive symptoms.

Results

A significant positive relationship was found between anxiety and depressive symptoms among formal caregivers. The level of care‐burden moderated this relationship, showing that caregivers with higher care‐burden demonstrated a stronger association between anxiety and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

Professionals may use ADL/IADL as a practical index to assess care‐burden and the risk of mistreatment.

Implications for Practice

Formal caregivers with higher care‐burden should get enhanced professional's support to reduce adverse mental health outcomes.
Development and impact of a clinical instructional video on self‐confidence in luxator use amongst dental undergraduates
Authors: Awad Zsumanna , Moore Richard , Zoltie Timothy
Published: May 2022

Objectives

The aim was to develop a clinical instructional video to increase the self‐reported confidence levels of dental undergraduates in different aspects of using a luxator.

Methods

Distribution of a questionnaire allowed fourth‐ and final‐year dental students (N = 165) at the University of Leeds to report their confidence in different aspects of luxator use. After the development and distribution of a clinical instructional video, student could evaluate the effectiveness of the video and report their confidence levels through a second questionnaire and focus group interviews. The pre‐ and post‐video questionnaire results were compared using descriptive statistics. Reflexive thematic analysis was used to analyse data collected through focus group interviews.

Results

The response rate of completed questionnaires was 49% pre‐video (N = 82) and 29% post‐video (N = 49). The mean percentage of students who reported high confidence levels was lower before viewing the video (26.8%) than after (69.4%). The reasons behind reported confidence levels varied for each individual. The video was considered to be highly effective in allowing visualisation of technique and viewed as a valuable resource for revision. Whilst students perceived that the video had a positive impact on their self‐confidence, they still expressed need for small‐group practical teaching regarding luxators.

Conclusions

The utilisation of a clinical instructional video resource increased the self‐reported confidence levels of dental undergraduates in different aspects of using a luxator.
Comparing adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes of chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and syphilis infections and co‐infections in pregnancy
Authors: Felske Lindey R. , Castillo Eliana , Kuret Verena , Metcalfe Amy
Published: May 2022

Background

While maternal sexually transmitted infections (STIs) during pregnancy have been extensively studied, fewer studies have directly compared the associations of different infections and co‐infections or investigated the association between STIs in pregnancy and maternal outcomes.

Objectives

We examine associations between STIs and co‐infections in pregnancy on risks of adverse neonatal and maternal outcomes.

Methods

Data from the 2019 US natality files (n = 3,747,882) were used to assess the associations between STIs in pregnancy on adverse pregnancy outcomes. Five mutually exclusive STI groups were examined: a single chlamydia, syphilis, or gonorrhoeal infection, chlamydia and gonorrhoea co‐infection, and syphilis co‐infection (with chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or both). Demographic and obstetric characteristics among each STI group were compared to those of an uninfected comparison group. Prevalence ratios (PR) of adverse neonatal outcomes (preterm birth, small for gestational age [SGA] births, and 5‐min APGAR (Appearance, Pulse, Grimace, Activity, and Respiration) score < 7) and maternal outcomes (gestational hypertension) by STI status were examined using log‐binomial regression.

Results

Increased prevalence of preterm birth was apparent, especially among those with a syphilis infection (PR 1.19, 95% confidence intreval [CI] 1.10, 1.30 for single infections and PR 1.31, 95% CI 1.10, 1.57 for co‐infections). All STI groups, except gonorrhoea and chlamydia co‐infections, were associated with an increased prevalence of gestational hypertension, with the strongest association among those with syphilis co‐infections (PR 1.41, 95% CI 1.13, 1.76).

Conclusions

An increased prevalence was of preterm birth and low APGAR scores were associated with syphilis infection. Increased prevalence of GH among those with STIs warrants further investigation into the relationships and corresponding mechanisms of STIs in pregnancy on adverse maternal outcomes.
Spiritual care for the management of Parkinson's disease: Where we are and how far can we go
Authors: Gao Jia , Wang Qunjuan , Wu Qin , Weng Yu , Lu Huamei , Xu Jingzhi
Published: May 2022

An increasing number of studies have investigated the neural networks and brain regions activated by different aspects of religious faith or spiritual practice. The extent to which religiousness and spirituality are dependent on the integrity of neural circuits is a question unique to neurological illnesses. Several studies have reported that neural networks and brain areas represent the various components of religious faith or spiritual activity in recent decades. In addition to research in healthy people, another strategy is to observe if neurological abnormalities caused by stroke, tumour, brain damage, or degenerative sickness are accompanied by an alteration in religiosity or spirituality. Similarly, Parkinson's disease (PD), an ailment characterized by dopaminergic neuron malfunction, has been utilized to explore the role of dopaminergic networks in the practice, experience, and maintenance of religious or spiritual beliefs. Case–control and priming studies have demonstrated a decline in spirituality and religion in people with PD due to dopaminergic degeneration. These studies could not adequately control for confounding variables and lacked methodological rigour. Using qualitative and quantitative assessments, a mixed‐method approach might shed additional light on putative religious beliefs alterations in PD. In the current review paper, we discussed the recent research on the impact of PD on spiritual beliefs and spirituality.