bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aspherical atom refinements on X-ray data of diverse structures including disordered and covalent organic framework systems: a time–accuracy trade-off
Authors: Jha Kunal Kumar , Kleemiss Florian , Chodkiewicz Michał Leszek , Dominiak Paulina Maria
Published: December 2022

Aspherical atom refinement is the key to achieving accurate structure models, displacement parameters, hydrogen-bond lengths and analysis of weak interactions, amongst other examples. There are various quantum crystallographic methods to perform aspherical atom refinement, including Hirshfeld atom refinement (HAR) and transferable aspherical atom model (TAAM) refinement. Both HAR and TAAM have their limitations and advantages, the former being more accurate and the latter being faster. With the advent of non-spherical atoms in Olex2 (NoSpherA2), it is now possible to overcome some limitations, like treating disorder, twinning and network structures, in aspherical refinements using HAR, TAAM or both together. TAAM refinement in NoSpherA2 showed significant improvement in refinement statistics compared with independent atom model (IAM) refinements on a diverse set of X-ray diffraction data. The sensitivity of TAAM towards poor data quality and disorder was observed in terms of higher refinement statistics for such structures. A comparison of IAM with TAAM and HAR in NoSpherA2 indicated that the time taken by TAAM refinements was of the same order of magnitude as that taken by IAM, while in HAR the time taken using a minimal basis set was 50 times higher than for IAM and rapidly increased with increasing size of the basis sets used. The displacement parameters for hydrogen and non-hydrogen atoms were very similar in both HAR and TAAM refinements. The hydrogen-bond lengths were slightly closer to neutron reference values in the case of HAR with higher basis sets than in TAAM. To benefit from the advantages of each method, a new hybrid refinement approach has been introduced, allowing a combination of IAM, HAR and TAAM in one structure refinement. Refinement of coordination complexes involving metal–organic compounds and network structures such as covalent organic frameworks and metal–organic frameworks is now possible in a hybrid mode such as IAM–TAAM or HAR–TAAM, where the metal atoms are treated via either the IAM or HAR method and the organic part via TAAM, thus reducing the computational costs without compromising the accuracy. Formal charges on the metal and ligand can also be introduced in hybrid-mode refinement.
Parameter identification for MTPA control based on a nonlinear d-q dynamic IPMSM model
Authors: Garmut Mitja , Steentjes Simon , Petrun Martin
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Small highly saturated interior permanent magnet- synchronous machines (IPMSMs) show a very nonlinear behaviour. Such machines are mostly controlled with a closed-loop cascade control, which is based on a d-q two-axis dynamic model with constant concentrated parameters to calculate the control parameters. This paper aims to present the identification of a complete current- and rotor position-dependent d-q dynamic model, which is derived by using a finite element method (FEM) simulation. The machine’s constant parameters are determined for an operation on the maximum torque per ampere (MTPA) curve. The obtained MTPA control performance was evaluated on the complete FEM-based nonlinear d-q model.

Design/methodology/approach

A FEM model was used to determine the nonlinear properties of the complete d-q dynamic model of the IPMSM. Furthermore, a fitting procedure based on the nonlinear MTPA curve is proposed to determine adequate constant parameters for MTPA operation of the IPMSM.

Findings

The current-dependent d-q dynamic model of the machine models the relevant dynamic behaviour of the complete current- and rotor position-dependent FEM-based d-q dynamic model. The most adequate control response was achieved while using the constant parameters fitted to the nonlinear MTPA curve by using the proposed method.

Originality/value

The effect on the motor’s steady-state and dynamic behaviour of differently complex d-q dynamic models was evaluated. A workflow to obtain constant set of parameters for the decoupled operation in the MTPA region was developed and their effect on the control response was analysed.
Investigating drivers of qardhul hassan financing acceptance in the time of COVID-19: a Malaysian breadwinner perspective
Authors: Amin Hanudin
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This study was conducted to examine factors that could determine breadwinners' willingness to accept qardhul hassan financing in the time of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19).

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing upon ‘Attitude, Social Influence and Self-Efficacy’ (ASE) model, this study examined the effects of attitude, subjective influence and self-efficacy on qardhul hassan financing acceptance during the pandemic. The sample size was 294 respondents who were all breadwinners and sourced from group bottom 40 or B40 in Malaysia.

Findings

The results obtained acknowledged that attitude, subjective influence and self-efficacy shaped the formation and development of breadwinners' acceptance to take up the facility during the pandemic at best for well-being.

Research limitations/implications

Future studies should include samples from other geographies in Malaysia along with new variables relevant to extend the findings.

Practical implications

The results obtained offer new action plans for Islamic social financial institutions to better plan the offered qardhul hassan financing to society at large.

Originality/value

There are two originalities drawn from this study. First, this study is a pioneering work in Malaysia examining the importance of qardhul hassan financing in the time of COVID-19. Second, this study used the ASE model in examining the breadwinners' acceptability of the financing facility in meeting basic needs and requirements.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-06-2022-0420.
A shock to the system: entrepreneurial ecosystem resilience and adaptation in a global pandemic
Authors: Cannice Mark V. , Park Sun-Young , Lee June Y.
Published: December 2022

Purpose

This exploratory study uses a punctuated equilibrium paradigm (PEP) framework to examine the impact and adaptation of an entrepreneurial ecosystem (EE) to the COVID-19 pandemic at the organizational and ecosystem level. The aim is to provide guidance to EEs on ways to adapt to future external shocks.

Design/methodology/approach

As this study is exploratory in nature, the authors use a sequential mixed method whereby a qualitative method is used first to identify emergent themes from in-depth interviews with EE members, followed by a quantitative method (survey) based on those themes across a broader cross section of EE members.

Findings

Entrepreneurial ecosystem’s geographical advantages have declined during the pandemic as EE firms adapted to this external shock by developing more digitally distributed organizations.

Research limitations/implications

Based on the findings, the authors propose an emerging model of EEs that extends the traditional clustering model focused on geography to account for more digitally distributed entrepreneurial clusters. However, the results, based on an in-depth study of one ecosystem, may not be fully generalizable to all EEs.

Practical implications

Given the widespread pandemic impact, the findings may be instructive to EEs and organizations in EEs that aim to become more resilient in the face of potential future external shocks.

Social implications

As part of the qualitative interview process the interviewees were asked what they would change in San Francisco Bay Area if they had a magic wand right now. They discussed a variety of inspiring ideas, but the most frequently mentioned was their wish to change the focus of business to solve societal problems with a global citizen mindset (e.g. recycling energy, climate change, income inequality, access to education and funding, inequity, wealth gaps, housing crisis and homelessness) to make the world a better place. Additionally, the pandemic exposed some inequality in work conditions across demographics. As firms reorganize to increase resiliency, attention to these issues should be addressed.

Originality/value

This study is unique in applying the PEP to EEs to deepen our understanding about how an EE evolves during periods of sudden external shocks.
Disclaimer effect of key audit matters in China: negative press coverage and boilerplate
Authors: Ma Qianqun , Zhou Jianan , Wang Qi
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Using China’s key audit matters (KAMs) data, this study aims to examine whether negative press coverage alleviates boilerplate KAMs.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses Levenshtein edit distance (LVD) to calculate the horizontal boilerplate of KAMs and investigates how boilerplate changes under different levels of the perceived legal risk.

Findings

The findings indicate that auditors of firms exposed to substantial negative press coverage will reduce the boilerplate of KAMs. This association is more significant for auditing firms with lower market share and client firms with higher financial distress. Additionally, the authors find that negative press coverage is more likely to alleviate the boilerplate disclosure of KAMs related to managers’ subjective estimation and material transactions and events. Furthermore, the association between negative press coverage and boilerplate KAMs varies with the source of negative news.

Originality/value

The findings suggest that upon exposure to negative press coverage, reducing the boilerplate of KAMs has a disclaimer effect for auditors.
A comprehensive review on medicinal plants possessing antioxidant potential
Authors: Zafar Farah , Asif Hafiz Muhammad , Shaheen Ghazala , Ghauri Aymen Owais , Rajpoot Sehrish Rana , Tasleem Muhammad Wasim , Shamim Tahira , Hadi Faheem , Noor Raessa , Ali Tanveer , Gulzar Muhammad Nauman , Nazar Halima
Published: December 2022

Many research studies have proposed that about two‐thirds of the medicinal plant species of the world possess significant antioxidant potential. Antioxidants are very beneficial as they decrease oxidative stress (OS) in cells and hence play their role in management as well as treatment of numerous diseases like cancers, cardiovascular diseases, as well as many inflammatory illnesses. This review comprises the antioxidant potential of numerous parts of medicinal plants like leaves, stems, roots, seeds, fruits, as well as bark. Synthetic antioxidants named butylated hydroxyanisole (BHA) as well as butylated hydroxytoluene (BHT) are extensively employed in foods because of their role as food preservatives. Several natural antioxidants have better efficacy as compared to synthetic antioxidants. These medicinal plants includeGeranium sanguineumL.,Rheum ribesL.,Diospyros abyssinica,Sargentodoxa cuneataRehd. Et Wils,Pistacia lentiscus,Ficus microcarpaL. fil.,Polyalthia cerasoides(Roxb.) Bedd, Cunn,Teucrium poliumL.,Crataeva nurvalaBuch‐Ham.,Urtica dioicaL.,Dracocephalum moldavicaL.,Momordica CharantiaL.,Acacia auriculiformisA.,Bidens pilosaLinn. TheLamiaceaespecies, Radiata,Leea indica,Pelargonium endlicherianum, Salvia officinalisL., andUncaria tomentosa(Willd.) DC. The literature study disclosed more side effects of synthetic antioxidants (including food additives) in comparison with natural antioxidants and for prevention of many diseases.
Therapeutic potential of curcumin in ARDS and COVID‐19
Authors: Suresh Madathilparambil V. , Francis Sairah , Aktay Sinan , Kralovich Georgia , Raghavendran Krishnan
Published: December 2022

Curcumin is a safe, non‐toxic, readily available and naturally occurring compound, an active constituent of Curcuma longa (turmeric). Curcumin could potentially treat diseases, but faces poor physicochemical and pharmacological characteristics. To overcome these limitations, we developed a stable, water‐soluble formulation of curcumin called cyclodextrin‐complexed curcumin (CDC). We have previously shown that direct delivery of CDC to the lung following lipopolysaccharides exposure reduces acute lung injury (ALI) and effectively reduces lung injury, inflammation and mortality in mice following Klebsiella pneumoniae. Recently, we found that administration of CDC led to a significant reduction in angiotensin‐converting enzyme 2 and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 expression in gene and protein levels following pneumonia, indicating its potential in treating coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19). In this review, we consider the clinical features of ALI and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) and the role of curcumin in modulating the pathogenesis of bacterial/viral‐induced ARDS and COVID‐19.
Anomalous papillary muscle insertion into mitral valve leaflet: Autopsy study and implications
Authors: Leković Aleksa , Živković Vladimir , Nikolić Slobodan
Published: December 2022

Anomalous papillary muscle (APM) insertion into the anterior mitral valve leaflet is often associated with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) but is reported in other cases as a rare finding. Mere presence does not strictly imply hemodynamic disturbance, and several types exist, with various impacts on left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT) obstruction. The interpretation of isolated anomaly is challenging at autopsy because significant LVOT obstruction is dynamic. We analyzed autopsy cases with APM regarding the site of PM insertion and origin, number of PM bellies, anomalous insertions, heart weight, left ventricle (LV) thickness, LV endocardial fibrosis, subjects' age, sex, cause, and manner of death. A total of 20 cases were identified. Fourteen were identified incidentally, while in 670 systematically examined hearts, the APM was identified in six cases, indicating a prevalence of 0.9%. In eight cases, the manner of death was natural (one case with HCM), and in 12 non‐natural. Type II anomaly of PM was most frequent (n = 8), followed by Type III (n = 7) and Type I (n = 5). Subjects who died of natural causes were significantly older and had heavier hearts (median 455 g vs. 330 g; p < 0.05) without difference in LV thickness (median 16 mm vs. 15 mm; p > 0.05). Histology performed in four cases showed a pattern of direct insertion of cardiomyocytes into the leaflet's thick fibrous tissue with a narrow overlapping zone. The APM is rare, can be easily overlooked, and does not imply significant pathology per se. We discussed proper assessment of the significance of this anomaly at autopsy.
Maternal and neonatal outcomes following the introduction of the Fetal Pillow at a tertiary maternity hospital: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chooi Kathrina Y.L. , Deussen Andrea R. , Louise Jennie , Cash Sarah , Dodd Jodie M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Caesarean birth at full cervical dilatation can be technically challenging and may be associated with increased risks of maternal and neonatal morbidity, often secondary to difficulties in delivering a deeply impacted fetal head. The Fetal Pillow is a device designed to elevate an impacted fetal head out of the pelvis and reduce birth trauma.

Aims

To evaluate birth outcomes following the introduction of the Fetal Pillow at a tertiary maternity hospital.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective cohort study included all caesarean births at full cervical dilatation where the Fetal Pillow was utilised and compared with caesarean births where the Fetal Pillow was not used from October 2018 to December 2019. Maternal outcomes included uterine incision extension, blood loss, high dependency unit admission and postoperative length of stay. Neonatal outcomes included Apgar scores, resuscitation, cord arterial blood pH and lactate, nursery admission, birth trauma, jaundice and seizures.

Results

There were 53 caesarean births where the Fetal Pillow was utilised and 48 where it was not. Baseline characteristics were similar between groups with mean maternal age across both groups of 30.4 (±5.3) years, mean gestational age at birth of 39.5 (±1.2) weeks and mean infant birth weight of 3543 (±441) g. There were no statistically significant differences between the two study groups for the maternal and neonatal outcomes considered.

Conclusions

There was no evidence that use of the Fetal Pillow to elevate an impacted fetal head during caesarean birth when cervical dilatation is >7 cm was associated with a reduced rate of adverse maternal and neonatal outcomes.
Editorial: terlipressin in patients with acute‐on‐chronic liver failure grade 3—too late?
Authors: Trebicka Jonel , Zarbock Alexander
Published: December 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Wong et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17195 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17323
Editorial: the impact of COVID on management of IBD flares—different care but similar outcomes
Authors: Haydek John P. , Scott Frank I.
Published: December 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Saifuddin et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17223 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17293
Editorial: symptoms predicting active intestinal inflammation in patients with IBD
Authors: Mantzaris Gerassimos J.
Published: December 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Kulyk et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17241
Adherence levels and patterns for multiple cardiac medications prescribed to patients with incident atrial fibrillation events
Authors: Lip Gregory Y. H. , Genaidy Ash , Jones Bobby , Tran George , Marroquin Patricia , Estes Cara , Shnaiden Tatiana
Published: December 2022

Aims

Using advanced longitudinal analyses, this real‐world investigation examined medication adherence levels and patterns for incident atrial fibrillation (AF) patients with significant cardiovascular and noncardiovascular multimorbid conditions for each of 5 medication classes (β‐blockers, calcium channel blockers/digoxin, antiarrhythmics, anticoagulants, antiplatelets). The population was derived from a large cohort covering a wide age spectrum/diversified US geographical areas/wide range of socioeconomic–disability status.

Methods

The patients were drawn from 3 different health plans. Adherence was defined in terms of the proportion of day covered (PDC), and its patterns were modelled in terms of group‐based trajectory, with each pattern profiled in terms of comorbid history, demographic variables and health plan factors using multinomial regression modelling.

Results

The total population consisted of 1 978 168 patients, with the AF cohort being older (average age of 64.6 years relative to 44.7 years for the non‐AF cohort) and having fewer females (47.8% relative to 55.4 for the non‐AF cohort). The AF cohort had significant cardiovascular/noncardiovascular multimorbidities and was much sicker than the non‐AF cohort. A 6‐group based trajectory solution appears to be the most logical outcome for each medication class according to assessed criteria. For each medication class, it consisted of one consistent adherent group (PDC ≥ 0.84), one fast declining group (PDC ≤ 0.11) and 4 intermediate nonadherence groups (slow decline [0.30–0.74 PDC range], occasional users [0.24–0.55 PDC range] and early gap/increased adherence [0.62–0.75]). The most consistent adherent groups were much lower than 50% of the total population and equal to 12.5–27.0% of the population, with the fast declining nonadherent pattern in the 5.6–35.0% of the population and the intermediate nonadherence equal to ~61% of the population.

Conclusion

Our findings confirm that medication adherence is of major concern among multimorbid patients, with adherence levels lower much than those reported in the literature. There are 3 patterns of intermediate nonadherence (slow decline, occasional users, early gap/increased adherence), which were found to be eligible for interventions aimed at improving their adherence levels for each medication class. This may help improve cardiovascular medication adherence using large medication nonadherence improvement programmes.
Trait impressions from faces depend on the goals of the perceiver
Authors: Lin Chujun , Adolphs Ralph
Published: December 2022

Trait impressions from faces formed in the real world likely depend on the circumstances in which a face is seen, in particular, on the goal of the perceiver in that circumstance. This goal dependency is typically not incorporated into laboratory studies, an omission that has limited our understanding of trait impressions from faces.
Licochalcone A protects against LPS‐induced inflammation and acute lung injury by directly binding with myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD2)
Authors: Zhu Weiwei , Wang Minxiu , Jin Leiming , Yang Bin , Bai Bin , Mutsinze Rumbidzai Natasha , Zuo Wei , Chattipakorn Nipon , Huh Joo Young , Liang Guang , Wang Yi
Published: December 2022

Background and Purpose

Acute lung injury (ALI)/acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS) is a challenging clinical syndrome that leads to various respiratory sequelae and even high mortality in patients with severe disease. The novel pharmacological strategies and therapeutic drugs are urgently needed. Natural products have played a fundamental role and provided an abundant pool in drug discovery.

Experimental Approach

A compound library containing 160 natural products was used to screen potential anti‐inflammatory compounds. Mice with LPS‐induced ALI was then used to verify the preventive and therapeutic effects of the selected compounds.

Key Results

Licochalcone A was discovered from the anti‐inflammatory screening of natural products in macrophages. A qPCR array validated the inflammation‐regulatory effects of licochalcone A and indicated that the potential targets of licochalcone A may be the upstream proteins in LPS pro‐inflammatory signalling. Further studies showed that licochalcone A directly binds to myeloid differentiation factor 2 (MD2), an assistant protein of toll‐like receptor 4 (TLR4), to block both LPS‐induced TRIF‐ and MYD88‐dependent pathways. LEU61 and PHE151 in MD2 protein are the two key residues that contribute to the binding of MD2 to licochalcone A. In vivo, licochalcone A treatment alleviated ALI in LPS‐challenged mice through significantly reducing immunocyte infiltration, suppressing activation of TLR4 pathway and inflammatory cytokine induction.

Conclusion and Implications

In summary, our study identified MD2 as a direct target of licochalcone A for its anti‐inflammatory activity and suggested that licochalcone A might serve as a novel MD2 inhibitor and a potential drug for developing ALI/ARDS therapy.
Agreement between a mobile applet‐based visual acuity self‐test program and the conventional method for distance and near visual acuity tests
Authors: Xian Yiyong , Ye Yuhao , Liu Fang , Zhou Xingtao , Zhao Jing
Published: December 2022

Background

To investigate the agreement between a mobile applet‐based visual acuity (VA) self‐test program and the conventional VA tests.

Methods

This consecutive case series study included 121 children and adults (242 eyes). Patients were classified into three groups according to age (children, adolescents, and adults). They underwent uncorrected distance visual acuity (UDVA) testing, distance visual acuity with available spectacle correction (DVA with ASC) testing at 2.5‐m distance, uncorrected near visual acuity (UNVA) testing, and near visual acuity with available spectacle correction (NVA with ASC) testing at a 0.4‐m distance using a mobile applet‐based VA self‐test program and conventional VA tests in two eyes.

Results

Correlations among UDVA, DVA with ASC, UNVA, and NVA with ASC between the two methods were significant in all subjects (all p < 0.001). The intraclass correlation coefficient were 0.960, 0.845, 0.960, and 0.669, respectively (all p < 0.001). The proportions of bias outside the 95% confidence interval limit of agreements were 6.20%, 4.82%, 7.08%, and 6.10%, respectively. There were significant differences in NVA with ASC between the two methods (p < 0.05) in the adolescent group, but no differences in measured parameters were found among children and adult groups.

Conclusions

There is good agreement between the mobile applet‐based VA self‐test program and the conventional VA tests. The VA self‐test has good practical value especially in the current pandemic, allowing self‐screening of visual acuity, myopia control, and remote management of visual impairment in ocular morbidity.
Supplementation of mitochondria from endometrial mesenchymal stem cells improves oocyte quality in aged mice
Authors: Zhang Qi , Hao Jian‐Xiu , Liu Bo‐Wen , Ouyang Ying‐Chun , Guo Jia‐Ni , Dong Ming‐Zhe , Wang Zhen‐Bo , Gao Fei , Yao Yuan‐Qing
Published: December 2022

Maternal ageing is one of the major causes of reduced ovarian reserve and low oocyte quality in elderly women. Decreased oocyte quality is the main cause of age‐related infertility. Mitochondria are multifunctional energy stations that determine the oocyte quality. The mitochondria in aged oocytes display functional impairments with mtDNA damage, which leads to reduced competence and developmental potential of oocytes. To improve oocyte quality, mitochondrial supplementation is carried out as a potential therapeutic approach. However, the selection of suitable cells as the source of mitochondria remains controversial. We cultivated endometrial mesenchymal stem cells (EnMSCs) from aged mice and extracted mitochondria from EnMSCs. To improve the quality of oocytes, GV oocytes were supplemented with mitochondria via microinjection. And MII oocytes from aged mice were fertilized by intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI), combining EnMSCs' mitochondrial microinjection. In this study, we found that the mitochondria derived from EnMSCs could significantly improve the quality of aged oocytes. Supplementation with EnMSC mitochondria significantly increased the blastocyst ratio of MII oocytes from aged mice after ICSI. We also found that the birth rate of mitochondria‐injected ageing oocytes was significantly increased after embryo transplantation. Our study demonstrates that supplementation with EnMSC‐derived mitochondria can improve the quality of oocytes and promote embryo development in ageing mice, which might provide a prospective strategy for clinical treatment.
Exposure to tacrolimus trough levels below 6 ng/ml during the first year is associated with inferior kidney graft survival
Authors: Agur Timna , Rahamimov Ruth , Zingerman Boris , Bielopolski Dana , Lichtenberg Shelly , Nesher Eviatar , Rozen‐Zvi Benaya
Published: December 2022

Background

Accumulating data indicate that sub‐therapeutic levels of tacrolimus are associated with long‐term kidney graft loss. However, elevated doses increase the risk of infection and drug toxicity, which also threaten graft and patient longevity. We sought to determine the minimal tacrolimus level required to maintain graft survival.

Methods

We conducted a single‐center historical cohort study. The first‐year post‐transplant exposure time was calculated for each of the five tacrolimus trough level intervals. This measure was adjusted to the exposure time below a given interval level, allowing us to define the threshold for the optimal tacrolimus level as the upper limit of the interval. We then determined the association between the adjusted exposure time at each tacrolimus level interval and our primary outcome, death‐censored graft loss.

Results

One thousand four hundred and seventeen patients with a median follow‐up of 5.3 years were included in the final cohort. The tacrolimus level interval of 5–6 ng/ml was the highest interval, which demonstrated a statistically significant association between adjusted exposure time and increased risk of graft loss (HR 1.58, per log days, p = .002). Cumulative exposure time above 14 days with a tacrolimus level below 6 ng/ml was associated with an increased rate of graft loss in most studied subgroups, except for recipients with pre transplant diabetes.

Conclusions

Maintaining tacrolimus levels above 6 ng/ml during the first‐year post‐transplant might improve kidney graft survival.
Plankton size spectra as an indicator of larval success in Pacific sardine (Sardinops sagax)
Authors: Hinchliffe Charles , Matis Paloma A. , Schilling Hayden T. , Everett Jason D. , Miskiewicz Anthony G. , Pepin Pierre , Falster Daniel S. , Suthers Iain M.
Published: December 2022

Estimating demographic changes in a population requires the measurement of some minimal combination of several vital rates, including the flux of individuals into a population, the population growth rate, individual growth rates and mortality rates. For larval fishes, the ratio of instantaneous mortality to growth (i.e., their ‘recruitment potential’) has been used to make inferences of cohort trajectory where measures of population growth rates are not attainable. Attaining estimates of mortality and growth is an arduous task, and use of the recruitment potential metric has been limited. Here, we relate size spectra of the broader plankton community to the recruitment potential of simultaneously sampled larval Pacific sardines (Sardinops sagax), from three voyages off eastern Australia. As the size structure of a population is determined by the ratio of mortality to growth, and there is remarkable consistency in size spectra across ecosystems, we test the hypothesis that the recruitment potential of larval fish is reflected in community‐level measures of plankton size spectra. Contrary to expectations, results from this study demonstrate a negative relationship between the slope of the plankton size spectra and the recruitment potential of larval Pacific sardine. However, we also demonstrate several other stronger relationships between recruitment potential and physical oceanographic parameters. Together, results suggest plankton size spectra are unlikely to reflect recruitment potential directly. Incorporating some size‐based aspects of the plankton community into a broader modelling framework with a range of oceanographic parameters could further our ability to determine how larval success varies across a seascape.
Can probation be rehabilitated?
Authors: Robinson Gwen
Published: December 2022

This article is based on the 24th annual Bill McWilliams memorial lecture which was delivered at the Institute of Criminology in Cambridge on 9 June 2022. Coinciding with the first anniversary of the unification of probation services in England and Wales, the lecture considered the recent past, present and potential future of the service through the lens of a central concept in probation work: namely, rehabilitation. Three ways of understanding this concept are considered: rehabilitation as restoration; rehabilitation as a process of building back better; and looking‐glass rehabilitation. It is argued that each perspective suggests a different orientation to, and a different set of issues and questions about, probation's future and the work that is needed to help the unified service move on from a traumatic recent past.
Methods for strengths use support: A multi‐dimensional model
Authors: Matsuo Makoto
Published: December 2022

This study examines how middle managers support their employees' strengths use via three sequential analyses. In Study 1, an open‐ended questionnaire survey of high‐performing middle managers at a global manufacturer in Japan (n = 144) was conducted to collect comments on strengths use support (SUS). The grounded theory approach was used to generate four categories of SUS, and a quantitative questionnaire was developed based on the analysis. In Study 2, three dimensions of SUS (understanding employees' strengths and interests, developing strengths through challenging assignments, and supporting the accomplishment) were identified by exploratory factor analyses using the questionnaire survey data of middle managers in Japanese firms (n = 208). Study 3 examined the validity and reliability of the three‐dimensional model using confirmatory factor analysis of the questionnaire survey data of middle managers in Japanese firms (n = 209).
Environmental migration as short‐ or long‐term differences from a trend: A case study of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita effects on out‐migration in the Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Fussell Elizabeth , DeWaard Jack , Curtis Katherine J.
Published: December 2022

An environmental event that damages housing and the built environment may result in either a short‐ or long‐term out‐migration response, depending on residents' recovery decisions and hazard tolerance. If residents move only in the immediate disaster aftermath, then out‐migration will be elevated only in the short‐term. However, if disasters increase residents' concerns about future risk, heighten vulnerability, or harm the local economy, then out‐migration may be elevated for years after an event. The substantive aim of this research brief is to evaluate hypotheses about short‐ and long‐term out‐migration responses to the highly destructive 2005 hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico. The methodological aim is to demonstrate a difference‐in‐differences (DID) approach analysing time series data from Gulf Coast counties to compare short‐ and long‐differences in out‐migration probabilities in the treatment and control counties. We find a large short‐term out‐migration response and a smaller sustained increase for the disaster‐affected coastal counties.
Development of a clinically relevant ex vivo model of cardiac ablation for testing of ablation catheters
Authors: Lacko Christopher S. , Chen Qi , Mendoza Vivienne , Parikh Vanessa , Eichenbaum Gary , Bar‐Tal Meir , Eckert Chad E. , De Leon Hector , Matonick John P. , Sharma Tushar
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Reliable ex vivo cardiac ablation models have the potential to increase catheter testing throughput while minimizing animal usage. The goal of this work was to develop a physiologically relevant ex vivo swine model of cardiac ablation displaying minimal variability and high repeatability and identify and optimize key parameters involved in ablation outcomes.

Methods and Results

A root cause analysis was conducted to identify variables affecting ablation outcomes. Parameters associated with the tissue, bath media, and impedance were identified. Variables were defined experimentally and/or from literature sources to best mimic the clinical cardiac ablation setting. The model was validated by performing three independent replicates of ex vivo myocardial ablation and a direct comparison of lesion outcomes of the ex vivo swine myocardial and in vivo canine thigh preparation (TP) models. Replicate experiments on the ex vivo model demonstrated low variance in ablation depth (6.5 ± 0.6, 6.3 ± 0.6, 6.2 ± 0.4 mm) and width (10.4 ± 1.1, 9.7 ± 1.0, 9.9 ± 0.9 mm) and no significant differences between replicates. In a direct comparison of the two models, the ex vivo model demonstrated ablation depths similar to the canine TP model at 35 W (6.9 ± 1.0, and 7.0 ± 0.9 mm) and 50 W (8.0 ± 0.7, and 8.4 ± 0.7 mm), as well as similar power to depth ratios (15% and 19% for the ex vivo cardiac and in vivo TP models, respectively).

Conclusion

The ex vivo model exhibited strong lesion reproducibility and power‐to‐depth ratios comparable to the in vivo TP model. The optimized ex vivo model minimizes animal usage with increased throughput, lesion characteristics similar to the in vivo TP model, and ability to discriminate minor variations between different catheter designs.
Spawning migration behaviour of sea trout (Salmo trutta L.) in a boreal river system: effects of flow conditions and obstacles on migratory activity
Authors: Lähteenmäki Linus , Orell Panu , Romakkaniemi Atso , Snickars Martin
Published: December 2022

In this study, radio telemetry was used to examine the upstream spawning migration behaviour of anadromous brown trout (sea trout), Salmo trutta L., in a boreal river system, the River Isojoki, western Finland. The aim was to study the movement activity and migration characteristics of trout during the upstream spawning migration, as well as to locate the important spawning habitats and study the spawning characteristics. Furthermore, the authors analysed how flow conditions and a hydropower dam, with adjacent fishways, affected the upstream spawning migration. Tagged trout spawned in both the main stem and four tributaries, with spawning taking place from early October to November. The movement activity of radio‐tagged trout was influenced by a hydropower dam (Perus dam), with spring migrators spending prolonged periods at the dam area, postponing the migration upstream. Flow conditions affected the total time spent at the dam area, as well as the movement activity in the free‐flowing sections above the dam, with increasing flow stimulating activity. In addition, time of river ascent and location of spawning area had a significant effect on the movement activity of tagged trout. These results are further evidence that synergistic effects of flow and migratory obstacles can negatively influence migrations of anadromous fish, regardless of constructed fishways. The management of flow regimes and the efficiency of fishways are vital, as climate change will likely influence the flow and increase the water temperature of boreal river systems, further aggravating issues caused by obstacles.
Machine‐learning predictions of caffeine co‐crystal formation accompanying experimental and molecular validations
Authors: Syed Tanweer A. , Ansari Khursheed B. , Banerjee Arghya , Wood David A. , Khan Mohd Shariq , Al Mesfer Mohammed K.
Published: December 2022

Caffeine co‐crystal formation with other compounds is investigated in this study using a variety of machine learning (ML) methods. A total of 140 caffeine co‐crystal data points are used to train classification learners using MATLAB ML models. Kernel neural network, ensemble tree‐based, logistic regression, and support vector machine algorithms were among the ML models tested. The logistic regression algorithm produced the most accurate predictions of caffeine‐co‐crystal formation, with a validation accuracy of 97.1%. Experiments and molecular interaction studies between caffeine and other tea compounds (catechin and catechol) are used to validate ML predictions. As part of the evaluation, a random forest classifier was applied to select 1440 known molecular descriptors, among them 30 descriptors identified as responsible for caffeine co‐crystal formation were used for training and validation purpose. The reliability of the trained logistic regression algorithm means that it is suitable for use in predicting possible co‐crystals between caffeine and other compounds, thereby providing an understanding of caffeine co‐crystals formation without recourse to rigorous experimental tests.

Practical applications

Caffeine co‐crystals formation with other tea components is crucial to understand the generation of tea cream, which is undesirable to customers. Using a data‐driven approach (or machine learning) to identify the possible molecular combinations involved in co‐crystal formation can significantly reduce experimental test requirements. Machine learning data can help with investigations aimed at detailed characterization of ready‐to‐drink concentrated tea formulations. Furthermore, this study will assist researchers and policymakers in meeting the Sustainable Development Goals of “Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure.”
Use of Psychoactive Substances during the Perinatal Period: Guidelines for Interventions during the Perinatal Period from the French National College of Midwives
Authors: Chanal Corinne , Mazurier Evelyne , Doray Bérénice
Published: December 2022

Based on their clinical practice and an extensive review of the literature, the authors propose a framework of procedures to be followed to provide services to all women of childbearing age who use psychoactive substances (alcohol, cannabis, cocaine, amphetamines, and opioids), especially during pregnancy or during the postpartum and breastfeeding periods, in view of their individual situations and environmental contexts.
Use of Cosmetic Products in Pregnant and Breastfeeding Women and Young Children: Guidelines for Interventions during the Perinatal Period from the French National College of Midwives
Authors: Marie Cécile , Garlantézec Ronan , Béranger Rémi , Ficheux Anne‐Sophie
Published: December 2022

We conducted a literature review focusing on the use and health effects of cosmetics, especially among pregnant and lactating women and young children. Based on these data, we propose clinical practice guidelines for health care professionals to use for informing and advising their patients. These include the recommendations that families: (1) reduce the number and the frequency of use (grade B) and the amount applied (expert consensus) of all cosmetic products during the perinatal period and among children; (2) prefer simple, fragrance‐free, and rinsable products, with short ingredient lists (expert consensus); and (3) for children, avoid industrial wipes and prefer water, with suitable soap when necessary.
Young Children and Screens: Guidelines for Intervention during the Perinatal Period from the French National College of Midwives
Authors: Bernard Jonathan Y. , Caron François‐Marie , Salinier‐Rolland Catherine
Published: December 2022

Screens and digital media are increasingly present in family environments. This article reports the published data about children's screen use in France and elsewhere. We next synthesize the scientific literature on the relations between screen use and child development and then summarize current national and international guidelines about children's screen use before the age of 5 years. Based on these elements, we propose clinical practice guidelines for counseling women during the perinatal period.

Précis: Current knowledge on children's screen use and its relationship to their development is summarized including guidelines and suggestions to help parents monitor screen use.
Metabolic reprogramming of Helicoverpa armigera larvae by HearNPV facilitates viral replication and host immune suppression
Authors: Tian Zhiqiang , Zhu Lin , Michaud J. P. , Zha Meng , Cheng Jie , Shen Zhongjian , Liu Xiaoming , Liu Xiaoxia
Published: December 2022

Baculoviruses are highly evolved parasites that genetically reprogram the developing phenotype of their host insect to produce a vessel for virus replication and dispersal. Here we show that larvae of Helicoverpa armigera infected with HearNPV accumulate glucose in the midgut, which reduces food consumption and alters the dynamics of pathways governing metabolism and immunity. We used transcriptomics to demonstrate the role of the insulin signalling pathway in regulating the HearNPV infection process. Dietary restriction decreased mortality of infected larvae and reduced viral replication prior to death, whereas dietary supplementation with glucose produced the opposite effects. The expression of most tricarboxylic acid cycle (TCA) and energy metabolism‐related genes was reduced in infected larvae, whereas the expression of immunity‐, glycolysis‐ and insulin‐related genes was enhanced. Treatment of infected larvae with insulin increased their survival, reduced viral replication and inhibited climbing behaviour compared to a control treatment with DMSO, whereas RNAi suppression of the insulin receptor gene produced the opposite effects. Inhibition of glycolysis with dichloroacetate (DCA) promoted viral replication and accelerated larval death, but inhibition of the TCA cycle with 2‐deoxyglucose (2‐DG) did not, although both diminished climbing behaviour. This work demonstrates that successful baculovirus infections hinge on metabolic reprogramming of the host and concurrent suppression of immune responses in the larval midgut, with the insulin signalling pathway mediating a trade‐off between glucose metabolism and virus resistance.
Recording and analysis of slow waves of the small intestine of mice with heart failure
Authors: Javan‐Khoshkholgh Amir , Sassoon Joseph C. , Behbodikhah Jennifer , Dai Wenchen , Alemu Senayt , Quadri Saad , Singh Mohnish , Savinova Olga V. , Farajidavar Aydin
Published: December 2022

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms in heart failure (HF) patients are associated with increased morbidity and mortality. We hypothesized that HF reduces bioelectrical activity underlying peristalsis. In this study, we aimed to establish a method to capture and analyze slow waves (SW) in the small intestine in mice with HF.

Methods

We established a model of HF secondary to coronary artery disease in mice overexpressing tissue‐nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) in endothelial cells. The myoelectric activity was recorded from the small intestine in live animals under anesthesia. The low‐ and high‐frequency components of SW were isolated in MATLAB and compared between the control (n = 12) and eTNAP groups (n = 8). C‐kit‐positive interstitial cells of Cajal (ICC) and Pgp9.5‐positive myenteric neurons were detected by immunofluorescence. Myenteric ganglia were assessed by hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining.

Results

SW activity was successfully captured in vivo, with both high‐ and low‐frequency components. Low‐frequency component of SW was not different between endothelial TNAP (eTNAP) and control mice (mean[95% CI]: 0.032[0.025–0.039] vs. 0.040[0.028–0.052]). High‐frequency component of SW showed a reduction eTNAP mice relative to controls (0.221[0.140–0.302] vs. 0.394[0.295–0.489], p < 0.01). Dysrhythmia was also apparent upon visual review of signals. The density of ICC and neuronal networks remained the same between the two groups. No significant reduction in the size of myenteric ganglia of eTNAP mice was observed.

Conclusions

A method to acquire SW activity from small intestines in vivo and isolate low‐ and high‐frequency components was established. The results indicate that HF might be associated with reduced high‐frequency SW activity.
Spatial neglect encompasses impaired verticality representation after right hemisphere stroke
Authors: Lafitte Rémi , Jeager Marie , Piscicelli Céline , Dai Shenhao , Lemaire Camille , Chrispin Anne , Davoine Patrice , Dupierrix Eve , Pérennou Dominic
Published: December 2022

Spatial neglect after right hemisphere stroke (RHS) was recently found to encompass lateropulsion, a deficit in body orientation with respect to gravity caused by altered brain processing of graviception. By analogy, we hypothesized that spatial neglect after RHS might encompass an altered representation of verticality. We also assumed a strong relation between body neglect and impaired postural vertical, both referring to the body. To tackle these issues, we performed contingency and correlation analyses between two domains of spatial neglect (body, extra‐body) and two modalities of verticality perception (postural, visual) in 77 individuals (median age = 67) with a first‐ever subacute RHS (1–3 months). All individuals with a transmodal (postural and visual) tilt in verticality perception (n = 26) had spatial neglect, but the reverse was not found. Correlation and multivariate analyses revealed that spatial neglect (and notably body neglect) was associated more with postural than visual vertical tilts. These findings indicate that after RHS, an impaired verticality representation results from a kind of graviceptive neglect, bearing first on somaesthetic graviception and second on vestibular graviception. They also suggest that the human brain uses not only a mosaic of 2D representations but also 3D maps involving a transmodal representation of verticality.