bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification of Pseudomonas asiatica subsp. bavariensis str. JM1 as the first Nε‐carboxy(m)ethyllysine‐degrading soil bacterium
Authors: Mehler Judith , Behringer Kim Ina , Rollins Robert Ethan , Pisarz Friederike , Klingl Andreas , Henle Thomas , Heermann Ralf , Becker Noémie S. , Hellwig Michael , Lassak Jürgen
Published: May 2022

Thermal food processing leads to the formation of advanced glycation end products (AGE) such as Nε‐carboxymethyllysine (CML). Accordingly, these non‐canonical amino acids are an important part of the human diet. However, CML is only partially decomposed by our gut microbiota and up to 30% are excreted via faeces and, hence, enter the environment. In frame of this study, we isolated a soil bacterium that can grow on CML as well as its higher homologue Nε‐carboxyethyllysine (CEL) as sole source of carbon. Bioinformatic analyses upon whole‐genome sequencing revealed a subspecies of Pseudomonas asiatica, which we named ‘bavariensis’. We performed a metabolite screening of P. asiatica subsp. bavariensis str. JM1 grown either on CML or CEL and identified N‐carboxymethylaminopentanoic acid and N‐carboxyethylaminopentanoic acid respectively. We further detected α‐aminoadipate as intermediate in the metabolism of CML. These reaction products suggest two routes of degradation: While CEL seems to be predominantly processed from the α‐C‐atom, decomposition of CML can also be initiated with cleavage of the carboxymethyl group and under the release of acetate. Thus, our study provides novel insights into the metabolism of two important AGEs and how these are processed by environmental bacteria.
Risk of obstetric anal sphincter injuries at the time of admission for delivery: A clinical prediction model
Authors: Luchristt Douglas , Meekins Ana Rebecca , Zhao Congwen , Grotegut Chad , Siddiqui Nazema Y. , Alhanti Brooke , Jelovsek John Eric
Published: May 2022

Objective

To develop and validate a model to predict obstetric anal sphincter injuries (OASIS) using only information available at the time of admission for labour.

Design

A clinical predictive model using a retrospective cohort.

Setting

A US health system containing one community and one tertiary hospital.

Sample

A total of 22 873 pregnancy episodes with in‐hospital delivery at or beyond 21 weeks of gestation.

Methods

Thirty antepartum risk factors were identified as candidate variables, and a prediction model was built using logistic regression predicting OASIS versus no OASIS. Models were fit using the overall study population and separately using hospital‐specific cohorts. Bootstrapping was used for internal validation and external cross‐validation was performed between the two hospital cohorts.

Main outcome measures

Model performance was estimated using the bias‐corrected concordance index (c‐index), calibration plots and decision curves.

Results

Fifteen risk factors were retained in the final model. Decreasing parity, previous caesarean birth and cardiovascular disease increased risk of OASIS, whereas tobacco use and black race decreased risk. The final model from the total study population had good discrimination (c‐index 0.77, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.75–0.78) and was able to accurately predict risks between 0 and 35%, where average risk for OASIS was 3%. The site‐specific model fit using patients only from the tertiary hospital had c‐stat 0.74 (95% CI 0.72–0.77) on community hospital patients, and the community hospital model was 0.77 (95%CI 0.76–0.80) on the tertiary hospital patients.

Conclusions

OASIS can be accurately predicted based on variables known at the time of admission for labour. These predictions could be useful for selectively implementing OASIS prevention strategies.
Melatonin‐mediated postharvest quality and antioxidant properties of fresh fruits: A comprehensive meta‐analysis
Authors: Madebo Miilion Paulos , Zheng Yonghua , Jin Peng
Published: May 2022

At postharvest, fruits have a short shelf life. Recently, there has been much literature on the effects of melatonin on the postharvest quality of horticultural crops. However, reports of various findings comprise mixed claims and product‐specific conclusions. Therefore, a meta‐analysis systematically dissects the comprehensive effect on several fruits. In this meta‐analysis, standard mean difference (SMD) was adopted using a random‐effect model. The study used 36 articles and isolated 24 indicator parameters of postharvest quality and antioxidant properties based on the inclusion criteria. As exhibited in the forest plot, melatonin reduced chilling injury, weight loss, respiration rate, and ethylene content (SMD −0.90, 95% CI [−1.14, −0.65]; I2 = 81%; p < .00001). Similarly, the application of melatonin significantly suppressed electrolyte leakage, malondialdehyde (MDA), hydrogen peroxide, superoxide anion, lipoxygenase, and polyphenol oxidase (SMD −0.89, 95% CI [−1.09, −0.69]; I2 = 70%; p < .00001). In addition, exogenous melatonin application induced endogenous melatonin content, phenolic content, and flavonoid and anthocyanin contents (SMD 1.15, 95% CI [0.91, 1.39]; I2 = 71%; p = .01). Moreover, melatonin treatment enhanced antioxidant activities (catalase, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, ascorbate peroxidase, and phenylalanine ammonia‐lyse) (SMD 1.37, 95% CI [1.03, 1.71]; I2 = 86%; p < .00001). Thus, in the whole study, the overall effect was significantly high in treated fruit (p < .0001), and the overall heterogeneity was above (I2) > 70%. In addition, the funnel plot showed symmetry in the most selected studies. To sum up, the result gives a further understanding of melatonin's capabilities in reducing postharvest losses and maintaining the quality of fresh fruits.
A comparison between endoscopic ultrasound–guided and percutaneous biliary drainage after failed endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for malignant biliary obstruction: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Chow Hin San , Chan Justin Chung Yan , Cheung Wai Hung , Lai Amanda Yun Ling , Yu Ellen Lok Man , Lai Tak Wing
Published: May 2022

Aim

Endoscopic ultrasonography–guided biliary drainage (EUS‐BD) is increasingly used as an alternative therapeutic modality to percutaneous transhepatic biliary drainage (PTBD) for malignant biliary obstruction in patients who fail endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP). We conducted a retrospective study comparing the success rate and safety of the two drainage methods.

Patients and Methods

There were 121 consecutive patients undergoing EUS‐BD or PTBD who had malignant biliary obstruction that failed to be treated by ERCP at Princess Margaret Hospital between August 2015 and May 2021. Thirty‐five patients with biliary obstruction at or proximal to hilar level were excluded from this study. A retrospective cohort study was performed for 26 patients who underwent EUS‐BD (choledochoduodenostomy or hepaticogastrostomy) and 60 patients who underwent PTBD. Their clinical data and endoscopic data, demographic data, diagnosis, laboratory data, complications, number of re‐interventions, in‐hospital death and length of hospitalisation were extracted and compared.

Results

The clinical success rates for EUS‐BD and PTBD were 25 out of 26 (96.2%) and 43 out of 60 (71.7%), respectively (P = .01). The technical success rates were 25 out of 26 (96.2%) and 57 out of 60 (95.0%), respectively (P > .99). Among those technically successful cases, complications were significantly fewer in the EUS‐BD group (4%) than in the PTBD group (33.3%). There were significantly fewer re‐interventions, shorter length of hospitalisation and fewer in‐hospital death in the EUS‐BD group. No significant difference in stent/PTBD patency was noted between the two groups.

Conclusion

EUS‐BD is a safe and effective method of BD in patients with malignant biliary obstruction who failed ERCP. EUS‐BD has a higher rate of clinical success, is associated with fewer complications and has a shorter length of in‐hospital stay compared with PTBD. The overall technical success and stent patency are comparable to PTBD.
Initial experience with a novel biodegradable pancreatic stent in pancreatoduodenectomy
Authors: Yuen Angela Yit Won , Chan Justin Chung Yan , Luk Man Ping , Lee Kit Fai , Lai Tak Wing , Lai Paul B. S. , Ng Kelvin Kwok Chai , Chong Charing Ching Ning
Published: May 2022

The application of biodegradable pancreatic stent in pancreatoduodenectomy has rarely been studied. Archimedes biodegradable stent is a newly designed CE‐approved biodegradable stent. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to evaluate the performance of this stent in patients undergoing pancreatoduodenectomy. Clinical outcomes of these patients were reviewed. Among nine patients in this study, six (66.7%) slow‐degrading, two (22.2%) medium‐degrading, and one (11.1%) fast‐degrading stents were used. Technical success rate was 100%. There was no hospital mortality. Four patients (44.4%) developed clinically relevant post‐operative pancreatic fistula (POPF). Proximal migration of stent occurred in two patients (22%) who were managed conservatively. Five stents (55.5%) degraded within the expected degradation period. In conclusion, the use of Archimedes biodegradable stent in pancreatoduodenectomy is technically feasible. Future study is needed to evaluate its potential efficacy of reducing POPF.
Dnabarcoder: An open‐source software package for analysing and predicting DNA sequence similarity cutoffs for fungal sequence identification
Authors: Vu Duong , Nilsson R. Henrik , Verkley Gerard J. M.
Published: May 2022

The accuracy and precision of fungal molecular identification and classification are challenging, particularly in environmental metabarcoding approaches as these often trade accuracy for efficiency given the large data volumes at hand. In most ecological studies, only a single similarity cutoff value is used for sequence identification. This is not sufficient since the most commonly used DNA markers are known to vary widely in terms of inter‐ and intraspecific variability. We address this problem by presenting a new tool, dnabarcoder, to predict local similarity cutoffs and measure the resolving powers of a biomarker for sequence identification for different clades of fungi. It was shown that the predicted similarity cutoffs varied significantly between the clades of a recently released ITS DNA barcode data set from the CBS culture collection of the Westerdijk Fungal Biodiversity Institute. When classifying a large public fungal ITS data set—the UNITE database—against the barcode data set, the local similarity cutoffs assigned fewer sequences than the traditional cutoffs used in metabarcoding studies. However, the obtained accuracy and precision were significantly improved. Our study showed that it might be better to extract the ITS region from the ITS barcodes to optimize taxonomic assignment accuracy. Furthermore, 15.3, 25.6, and 26.3% of the fungal species of the barcode data set were indistinguishable by full‐length ITS, ITS1, and ITS2, respectively. Except for these indistinguishable species, the resolving powers of full‐length ITS, ITS1, and ITS2 sequences were similar at the species level. Nevertheless, the complete ITS region had a better resolving power at higher taxonomic levels.
Development of transcriptomics‐based growth rate indices in two model eukaryotes and relevance to metatranscriptomics datasets
Authors: Kong Wye‐Lup , Machida Ryuji J.
Published: May 2022

Growth rate estimation is important to understand the flow of energy and nutrient elements in an ecosystem, but it has remained challenging, especially on microscopic organisms. In this study, we propose four growth rate indices that use mRNA abundance ratios between nuclear and mitochondrial genes: (1) total nuclear and mitochondrial mRNA ratio (Nuc:Mito‐TmRNA); (2) nuclear and mitochondrial ribosomal protein mRNA ratio (Nuc:Mito‐RPmRNA); (3) gene ontology (GO) terms and total mitochondrial mRNA ratios; and (4) nuclear and mitochondrial specific gene mRNA ratio. We examine these proposed ratios using RNA‐Seq datasets of Daphnia magna, and Saccharomyces cerevisiae retrieved from the NCBI Short Read Archive. The results showed that both Nuc:Mito‐TmRNA and Nuc:Mito‐RPmRNA ratio indices showed significant correlations with the growth rate for both species. A large number of GO terms mRNA ratios showed significant correlations with the growth rate of S. cerevisiae. Lastly, we identified mRNA ratios of several specific nuclear and mitochondrial gene pairs that showed significant correlations. We foresee future implications for the proposed mRNA ratios used in metatranscriptome analyses to estimate the growth rate of communities and species.
Dividend imputation taxes and the curious case of a price premium between BHP and Billiton American depositary receipts
Authors: Hu Hansi , Walter Terry
Published: May 2022

BHP Group was formed in 2001 when the Broken Hill Proprietary Company Limited in Australia merged with the Anglo–Dutch Billiton Plc in the UK to form a dual−listed company. The American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) for BHP and Billiton trade on the NYSE, and despite these two securities having exactly the same voting rights and US dollar denominated dividends, the BHP ADR generally sells at a premium to the Billiton ADR, though that premium has considerable time−series variation. We investigate whether differences in the imputation tax systems that apply to dividends in Australia and the UK help explain the time series variation in the premium of the ADR prices. Our results confirm that imputation tax differences are a significant determinant of the premium. Our paper hence provides direct evidence that imputation tax credits are capitalised into equity prices.
Recreational cannabis legalization and transitions in cannabis use: findings from a nationally representative longitudinal cohort in the United States
Authors: Gunadi Christian , Zhu Bin , Shi Yuyan
Published: May 2022

Aims

This study estimated the likelihoods of individuals transitioning to different cannabis use status following recreational cannabis legalization (RCL) in the United States.

Design

Secondary analysis of a nationally representative longitudinal cohort in the United States. We used propensity score matching to balance individual characteristics between RCL and comparison states and generalized mixed regressions to estimate behavioral transitions in matched samples.

Participants

A longitudinal cohort of 21 863 individuals (6925 youths and 14 938 adults) participating in the Population Assessment of Tobacco and Health waves 3 and 4.

Setting

Four RCL states that implemented RCL between waves 3 and 4 (California, Massachusetts, Nevada and Maine) and comparison states in the United States.

Measurements

Transitions in cannabis use over the two waves: (1) from non‐users to users; (2) from non‐users to weekly users; (3) from users to non‐users. Individuals in RCL states were compared with matched individuals in (1) states with medical cannabis legalization (MCL), (2) states not legalizing cannabis (non‐legalizing) and (3) MCL and non‐legalizing states combined.

Findings

Among youths, the association between RCL and greater odds of transition from non‐users to users was seen in comparison with non‐legalizing states [odds ratio (OR) = 2.18, 95% confidence interval (CI) = 1.37–3.45] and combined states (OR = 1.73, 95% CI = 1.23–2.42). Evidence was lacking regarding the associations between RCL and transitions from non‐users to weekly users and from users to non‐users. Among adults, RCL was associated with greater odds of transitions from non‐users to users and non‐users to weekly users if RCL states were compared with non‐legalizing states (OR = 1.68, 95% CI = 1.15–2.46; OR = 1.82, 95% CI = 1.00–3.31, respectively) or combined states (OR = 1.51, 95% CI = 1.11–2.07; OR = 2.09, 95% CI = 1.19–3.66, respectively). RCL was also associated with lower odds of transition from users to non‐users if RCL states were compared with non‐legalizing states (OR = 0.54, 95% CI = 0.35–0.81).

Conclusions

There appears to be some evidence that recreational cannabis legalization in the United States is associated with elevated odds of transition to cannabis use among both youths and adults.
Secukinumab use in the treatment of Netherton's syndrome
Authors: Gan Christian , King Emma , Orchard David
Published: May 2022

Netherton syndrome is a rare, severe genetic disorder of cornification without specific treatment. We describe two cases who demonstrated marked cutaneous improvement with secukinumab and suggest a role for IL‐17 therapy in treating this condition.
Influence of combined phacovitrectomy without tamponade on intraocular lens displacement and postoperative refraction
Authors: Mayer‐Xanthaki Christoph F. , Hirnschall Nino , Gabriel Maximilian , Großpötzl Manuel , Wallisch Fabian , Findl Oliver , Haas Anton
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To compare phacoemulsification versus phacovitrectomy regarding postoperative intraocular lens (IOL) shift and refraction.

Methods

This prospective bilateral comparison study included 40 eyes of 20 patients. Inclusion criteria were combined phacovitrectomy without gas/air tamponade in one eye and cataract surgery in the contralateral eye with implantation of the same IOL. Postoperative anterior chamber depth (ACD) was compared between both groups 1–5 hr, 1 day and 8 weeks after surgery. Postoperative refraction was compared after 8 weeks using the Holladay I, HofferQ, SRK/T, Haigis and Barrett formulae.

Results

There were no intergroup differences in ACD (8 weeks: 0.02 mm absolute difference, SD 0.22, range −0.36 to 0.65, p = 0.401), mean absolute refractive error (8 weeks: Holladay I p = 0.452; HofferQ p = 0.475; SRK/T p = 0.498; Haigis p = 0.869; and Barrett p = 0.352) or percentages within the 0.5 D and 1.0 D range at any time‐point. All formulae were optimized for the phacovitrectomy and the cataract groups. There was no correlation of macular thickness change and refractive error (cataract group r2 = −0.13, p = 0.58; phacovitrectomy group r2 = −0.10, p = 0.68).

Conclusion

Combined phacovitrectomy without air/ gas tamponade caused neither ACD displacement nor refractive shifts compared to phacoemulsification alone. Surgically induced macular thickness change had no significant influence on postoperative refraction in this study. All five IOL formulae showed comparable postoperative refractive outcomes.
Short communication: dog bite and back pain
Authors: Duployez Claire , Wallet Frédéric , Pflimlin Arnaud , Leguy Diane , Vachée Anne , Loïez Caroline
Published: May 2022

Capnocytophaga canimorsus is a Gram‐negative rod commensal of oral cavity of dogs and cats. It can cause sepsis, septic shock, endocarditis, and meningitis associated with bites or licking wounds, especially in immunocompromised patients. Herein, we report a case of C. canimorsus spondylodiscitis linked to a dog bite in a previously healthy patient and review the literature on this pathogen.
‘Take my kidneys but not my corneas’—Selective preferences as a hidden problem for ‘opt‐out’ organ donation policy
Authors: Williams Nicola Jane , Manson Neil C.
Published: May 2022

With aims to both increase organ supply and better reflect individual donation preferences, many nations worldwide have shifted from ‘opt‐in’ to ‘opt‐out’ systems for post‐mortem organ donation (PMOD). In such countries, while a prospective donor's willingness to donate their organs/tissues for PMOD was previously ascertained—at least partially—by their having recorded positive donation preferences on an official register prior to death, this willingness is now presumed or inferred—at least partially—from their not having recorded an objection to PMOD—on an official organ donation register. Using evidence regarding the presence and prevalence of selective donation preferences, and via exploration of how appeals to donation preferences are used to both motivate and legitimate shifts to opt‐out frameworks, this paper draws attention to a set of previously unexplored problems for opt‐out organ donation arising in contexts where: (a) individuals demonstrate selective post‐mortem organ/tissue donation preferences, (b) legislation provides prospective donors with the opportunity to selectively permit/refuse the donation of certain organs/tissues in line with these preferences. While selective preferences pose few problems for opt‐in systems where a selective occasion is built into the process of signing the donor register, this is not the case for opt‐out systems. The loss of this selective occasion can cause significant problems where appeals to preferences motivate/legitimate shifts to opt‐out but evidence regarding variable preferences does not feed into determinations regarding organ/tissue exclusions. The nature of these problems depends on how the authorization aspect of ‘opt‐out’ systems is framed (e.g. as presumed consent, deemed consent or, given the role of familial consent in many jurisdictions as consent in name only).
“We embrace winter here”: Celebrating place in winter cities
Authors: Stout Madeleine , Collins Damian , Evans Joshua
Published: May 2022

Weather is an elementary and fundamental characteristic of place. In any given place we encounter the materiality of weather, local meanings attached to weather, and practices adopted in response to living with weather. Winter cities are places defined by their weather—long, cold winters that can pose challenges to urban life. Efforts to address these challenges centre on place‐making activities, such as seasonal festivals, which seek to enrich public spaces. In this paper, we examine the relationship between winter, place, and placemaking in three Canadian prairie cities. Participants sought to promote a celebratory relationship with winter by changing public attitudes, fostering unique winter experiences, and incorporating winter into their cities’ identities. This shift was encouraged by strategies and events that were “authentic” to local context and community. They did not simply reframe winter weather as positive, but recognized the season as presenting both challenges and opportunities. Enabling residents to realize opportunities is critical to being a successful winter city, and requires negotiating a set of dyads: warm/cold, indoor/outdoor, and light/dark. This paper highlights the constitutive role of weather in shaping place, while revealing the agentic ways in which communities act towards and with weather.
Anti‐Zic4 encephalitis in endometrial cancer: Autoimmunity triggered by PD‐1 inhibitor or recent CMV encephalitis?
Authors: Filippakopoulou Eugenia , Karachalia Persefoni , Gryllia Maria , Marousi Stella
Published: May 2022

Background

Autoimmune encephalitis has been well described in oncological patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs), as a paraneoplastic neurological syndrome. Central nervous system (CNS) infections from herpes viruses are also known to trigger secondary neurologic autoimmunity.

Case Presentation

We hereby describe a patient with a recent history of cytomegalovirus (CMV) CNS infection and ongoing immunotherapy with the programmed‐cell‐death‐protein‐1(PD‐1) inhibitor pembrolizumab for metastatic endometrial cancer. The patient presented with progressive encephalopathy along with cerebellar signs, rapidly evolving to status epilepticus requiring mechanical ventilation and advanced care unit (ACU) support. A serum paraneoplastic antibody panel revealed strongly positive anti‐Zic4 antibodies. Despite first‐line immunotherapy and aggressive anticonvulsant treatment, the patient died a few days postintubation.

Conclusion

In anti‐Zic4 encephalitis, both PD‐1 inhibitor treatment and recent CMV viral insult may contribute to the development of neurological autoimmunity. Further research is needed to identify ways of predicting neurological damage in oncological patients treated with ICIs.
Harmonics Virtual Lights: Fast Projection of Luminance Field on Spherical Harmonics for Efficient Rendering
Authors: Mézières Pierre , Desrichard François , Vanderhaeghe David , Paulin Mathias
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we introduce harmonics virtual lights (HVL), to model indirect light sources for interactive global illumination of dynamic 3D scenes. Virtual point lights (VPL) are an efficient approach to define indirect light sources and to evaluate the resulting indirect lighting. Nonetheless, VPL suffer from disturbing artefacts, especially with high‐frequency materials. Virtual spherical lights (VSL) avoid these artefacts by considering spheres instead of points but estimates the lighting integral using Monte‐Carlo which results to noise in the final image. We define HVL as an extension of VSL in a spherical harmonics (SH) framework, defining a closed form of the lighting integral evaluation. We propose an efficient SH projection of spherical lights contribution faster than existing methods. Computing the outgoing luminance requires operations when using materials with circular symmetric lobes, and operations for the general case, where n is the number of SH bands. HVL can be used with either parametric or measured BRDF without extra cost and offers control over rendering time and image quality, by either decreasing or increasing the band limit used for SH projection. Our approach is particularly well‐designed to render medium‐frequency one‐bounce global illumination with arbitrary BRDF at an interactive frame rate.
Demographic trends in late‐slavery Jamaica, 1817–32
Authors: Ward J. R.
Published: May 2022

Early nineteenth‐century demographic trends on sugar estates in Jamaica, the most important British Caribbean colony, are examined through the 1817–32 public slave registers. We seek evidence regarding the background to the island's 1831–2 popular insurrection, the immediate cause of the London parliament's vote in 1833 to abolish colonial slavery. Some historians argue that the revolt occurred as ‘political’ effect from a sudden upsurge of metropolitan anti‐slavery activism in 1830–1. They believe the uprising broke out despite improvement in enslaved people's material welfare, favoured by many slaveholders to secure population increase after the closure of the British transatlantic slave trade in 1808. Alternative ‘economic’ assessments judge that increasing workloads had been aggravating popular unrest before the revolt. Commercial pressures, and the imminent likelihood of emancipation, allegedly outweighed welfare concerns. The excess of slave deaths over births widened between 1817 and 1832. However, the registers show that demographic deficits resulted mainly from the ageing of the last Africa‐born cohorts. Jamaica‐born enslaved people became self‐reproducing. There was no general pre‐1831 regime deterioration. Most slaveholders sought to maintain their Jamaican assets for the long term through pro‐natalist measures, and did not expect emancipation. The revolt's causes were thus more ‘political’ than ‘economic’.
Risk of intracranial meningioma with three potent progestogens: A population‐based case–control study
Authors: Hoisnard Léa , Laanani Moussa , Passeri Thibault , Duranteau Lise , Coste Joël , Zureik Mahmoud , Froelich Sébastien , Weill Alain
Published: May 2022

Background and purpose

A dose‐dependent association between the use of cyproterone acetate (CPA) and intracranial meningioma has been identified but data for other potent progestogens are scarce. The association was assessed between intracranial meningioma surgery and exposure to three potent progestogens: CPA (≥25 mg/day), nomegestrol acetate (NOMAC) (3.75–5 mg/day) and chlormadinone acetate (CMA) (2–10 mg/day).

Methods

In this nationwide population‐based case–control study, cases underwent surgery for intracranial meningioma in France from 2009 to 2018. They were matched to five control subjects for sex, year of birth and area of residence. Progestogen exposure was defined as progestogen use within the year before surgery for cases or the same date for their controls.

Results

In total, 25,216 cases were included (75% women, median age 58 years). Progestogen exposure was noted for 9.9% of cases (2497/25,216) and 1.9% (2382/126,080) of controls, with an odds ratio (OR) of 6.7 (95% confidence interval [CI] 6.3–7.1). The OR was 1.2 (1.0–1.4) for short‐term use (<1 year) and 9.5 (8.8–10.2) for prolonged use. A strong association was identified for prolonged use of CPA (OR = 22.7, 95% CI 19.5–26.4), NOMAC (OR = 6.5, 95% CI 5.8–7.2) and CMA (OR = 4.7, 95% CI 4.5–5.3). Progestogen exposure increased the risk of meningioma for all histological grades and anatomical sites, particularly for the anterior and middle skull base: OR = 35.7 (95% CI 26.5–48.2) and 23.9 (95% CI 17.8–32.2) for CPA. The estimated number of attributable cases was 2124 (95% CI 2028–2220) (212/year).

Conclusion

A strong association between prolonged exposure to potent progestogens and surgery for meningioma was observed. The risk increased from CMA to NOMAC to CPA. Individuals should be informed of this risk.
Case study: Applying the resist–accept–direct framework to an Ojibwe Tribe's relationship with the natural world
Authors: Shultz Aaron , Luehring Mark , Ray Adam , Rose Joe Dan , Croll Robert , Gilbert Jonathan , Price Michael , Graveen Joe , Chapman Lyle
Published: May 2022

Ojibwe Tribes' approach to the natural world is guided by the original treaties between beings (species and spirits) and the Ojibwe people who reside in lands now known as the United States and Canada. Relationships with these beings, such as ogaa (walleye Sander vitreus), are best characterised as taking care of a relative/gift for the next seven generations of Ojibwe. Initial denial of treaty rights by the state government has strongly influenced tribes' relationship with their relatives for over 100 years. Ogaa stocks and natural reproduction have declined in the Minocqua Chain of Lakes (Wisconsin, USA) over the last 20 years. Region‐wide declines in ogaa have been attributed to many stressors such as overharvest by state‐licensed anglers, invasive species and climate change. Here, we retroactively applied the resist–accept–direct (RAD) framework to the process used to create an interjurisdictional rehabilitation plan for the Minocqua Chain of Lakes. Specifically, we cover the following: progress to date on the rehabilitation plan; subsistence, cultural and spiritual challenges associated with resisting ecosystem change; unforeseen obstacles to rehabilitation; re‐evaluation of the relationship with ogaa; unknowns; and contingency plans from a tribal perspective. Lastly, we discuss how the RAD framework could become more useful to tribes in the region.
Letters to Hell: Correspondence with death row inmates
Authors: Knoll‐Frey Kathleen , Clark Richard D. , Kato Amy
Published: May 2022

Death row inmates are sentenced to long periods of isolation before their execution. These individuals, however, often acquire pen pals who write on a regular basis. Anecdotal writings on correspondence with death row inmates have been studied, though usually focusing only on a set of letters between pen pals. This project uses a mixed‐methods approach to examine individuals who corresponded with death row inmates. A qualitative analysis explores multiple facets of why a person chose to write to a death row inmate and the effects of this letter writing. A quantitative analysis of the data explores which aspects of letter writing are more likely to result in the correspondent engaging in activities relating to the death penalty. Results from the study reveal that letter writing has positive effects on the letter writers. Letter writing may pose a way to humanise death row inmates and encourage advocacy work towards the death penalty.
Exploring the context, role and impact of public health nursing during COVID‐19: A multiple case study protocol
Authors: Belita Emily , Jack Susan M. , Lokko Heather , Dobbins Maureen
Published: May 2022

Aim

The purpose of this study is to: (a) describe public health nursing roles over the course of the COVID‐19 pandemic in Ontario, Canada; (b) describe the contextual factors that influence public health nursing role implementation; and (c) describe nurses' perceived impact of their roles on client outcomes and professional/personal nursing practice.

Design

Descriptive multiple case study.

Methods

Recruitment of public health nurses (PHNs), working in direct service or administrative leadership positions, in an Ontario public health unit will be conducted through purposive and snowball sampling. Nursing roles will be compared and contrasted across three cases differentiated by geographic setting: urban, urban–rural, northern. In each geographic case, a priori estimates of sample size will include 10 PHNs providing direct care and at least five nurses in an administrative leadership role; with an overall estimated study sample size of 45 individuals. Demographic data will be collected using an online anonymous survey. Individual semi‐structured interviews with PHNs, and focus groups with nursing administrators will be conducted via telephone and audio‐recorded. Individual interviews and focus groups will be transcribed verbatim. Reflexive thematic analysis will be used to generate emergent themes in each case and cross‐case synthesis will be used to compare and contrast patterns across geographic cases.

Discussion

Expected findings will provide an in‐depth analysis of the rapidly evolving roles and functions of PHNs throughout the COVID‐19 pandemic and their impact on individuals, families and communities. As well, findings will provide a new understanding about the contextual barriers and facilitators of PHN role implementation in their working environments.

Impact

Study findings can support decision‐making in relation to funding, resource allocation and supportive work structures and processes at a public health system and/or individual public health organization level.
The Adapted Firesetting Assessment Scale: reliability and validity
Authors: Collins J. , Langdon P. E. , Barnoux M.
Published: May 2022

Background

The Adapted Firesetting Assessment Scale was developed for use with adults with developmental disabilities targeting fire‐related factors thought to be associated with deliberate firesetting behaviour (i.e. attitudes towards fire, fire interest, fire normalisation, identification with fire and fire safety awareness). However, the psychometric properties of the scale are yet to be evaluated.

Method

The reliability, validity, comprehensibility, relevance and comprehensiveness of the Adapted Firesetting Assessment Scale were evaluated. Fifty‐nine adults with developmental disabilities, some of whom had a history of firesetting, completed the Adapted Firesetting Assessment Scale on two occasions. Feedback about the questionnaire was sought from both participants and professionals.

Results

The AFAS has acceptable internal consistency and excellent test–retest reliability. The attitudes towards fire, fire normalisation, poor fire safety subscales and total scores discriminated firesetters from non‐firesetters. Content analysis of feedback indicated items of the AFAS were understood, relevant, accessible and comprehensible.

Conclusion

A larger study is needed to examine the factor structure of the AFAS.
Serum concentrations of leptin and adiponectin in dogs with chronic kidney disease
Authors: Choi Dongjoon , Yun Taesik , Lee Dohee , Koo Yoonhoi , Chae Yeon , Yang Mhan‐Pyo , Kang Byeong‐Teck , Kim Hakhyun
Published: May 2022

Background

An imbalance in adipokines is associated with the progression of chronic kidney disease (CKD) in humans. However, alterations in adipokines in dogs with CKD remain unclear.

Objectives

To examine whether adipokine concentrations in serum differ between healthy dogs and dogs with CKD and to determine the correlation between serum adipokine concentrations and CKD severity in dogs.

Animals

Twenty dogs with CKD and 10 healthy dogs.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, serum concentrations of leptin, adiponectin, interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐10, IL‐18, and tumor necrosis factor (TNF)‐α were measured in healthy dogs and dogs with CKD, which were classified according to the International Renal Interest Society guidelines.

Results

Serum leptin concentrations were positively correlated with systolic arterial blood pressure (r = .41), creatinine concentrations (r = .39), and symmetric dimethylarginine concentrations (r = .73). Serum adiponectin concentrations (median [range]) in CKD dogs with borderline or non‐proteinuric (20.25 [14.9‐45.8] ng/mL) were significantly higher than those in proteinuric CKD dogs (13.95 [6.4‐22.1] ng/mL; P = .01). Serum IL‐6 (median [range]; 43.27 [24.30‐537.30] vs 25.63 [6.83‐61.03] pg/mL; P = .02), IL‐18 (median [range]; 25.98 [11.52‐280.55] vs 10.77 [3.53‐38.45] pg/mL; P = .01), and TNF‐α (median [range]) concentrations (11.44 [8.54‐38.45] vs 6.105 [3.97‐30.68] pg/mL; P = .02) were significantly different between proteinuric and borderline or non‐proteinuric CKD dogs.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

leptin and adiponectin concentrations in serum might be associated with severity of CKD and proteinuria in dogs with CKD, respectively.
Portal pressure is of significant prognostic value in primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Warnes Thomas W. , Roberts Stephen A. , Smith Alexander , Cope Victor M. , Vales Patricia , McMahon Raymond
Published: May 2022

Background and Aims

In other forms of chronic liver disease, measurement of portal pressure is of prognostic value, but this has not yet been established in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC). The aim of the study is to determine the prognostic value of hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) in relation to liver‐related survival outcomes, as well as to the development of hepatic decompensation, oesophageal varices and variceal bleeding.

Methods

Baseline HVPG and liver biopsies were obtained in 86 patients followed for 10 years in a controlled trial of colchicine treatment, and subsequently in a long‐term observational cohort study for a further 30 years.

Results

There were 49 Hepatic deaths in addition to 10 Liver Transplants (Hepatic death/transplant; n = 59). Some of these were associated with a significant variceal bleed within 3 months of death or transplant (Portal hypertension‐associated death or transplant; n = 19). There were 63 deaths from all causes. During follow‐up, oesophageal varices developed in 26 patients, whilst 17 bled from varices and 32 developed hepatic decompensation over a median follow‐up of 18.1 years (1.9–28.5). Baseline HVPG was highly predictive of all 6 clinical outcomes and contributed significant predictive information additional to that provided by Mayo score and Ludwig stage.

Conclusion

Measurement of baseline portal pressure is of significant prognostic value in primary biliary cholangitis.
Ageing well: Social but also biological reasons for age‐grading
Authors: Hejná Míša , Jespersen Anna
Published: May 2022

The theory of language change has worked primarily with four basic language change profiles: generational change, age‐grading, communal change, and stability. This paper focuses primarily on age‐grading, the process whereby each generation undergoes a specific language change at the same age‐related stage within their lifespan. Despite the necessary influence of biological change on the ageing body, the explanations put forward to explain why and how age‐grading occurs have been primarily social. Previous work also often relies on the study of adolescents. Following the distinction between chronological, social, and biological ageing, this study provides an overview of biological factors which may also provide explanatory power, with a focus on phonetic variation. Considering biological factors can be important in order to avoid interpreting cases of biological age‐grading as (solely) social in nature, and as cases of generational change rather than age‐grading.
Gut microbiota composition does not associate with toxoplasma infection in rats
Authors: Taggart Patrick L. , Liddicoat Craig , Tong Wen Han , Breed Martin F. , Weinstein Philip , Wheeler David , Vyas Ajai
Published: May 2022

Toxoplasma infection in intermediate host species closely associates with inflammation. This association has led to suggestions that the behavioural changes associated with infection may be indirectly driven by the resulting sustained inflammation rather than a direct behavioural manipulation by the parasite. If this is correct, sustained inflammation in chronically infected rodents should present as widespread differences in the gastrointestinal microbiota due to the dependency between the composition of these microbiota and sustained inflammation. We conducted a randomized controlled experiment in rats that were assigned to a Toxoplasma‐treatment, placebo‐treatment or negative control group. We euthanised rats during the chronic phase of infection, collected their caecal stool samples and sequenced the V3‐V4 region of the 16S rRNA gene to characterize the bacterial community in these samples. Toxoplasma infection did not induce widespread differences in the bacterial community composition of the gastrointestinal tract of rats. Rather, we found sex differences in the bacterial community composition of rats. We conclude that it is unlikely that sustained inflammation is the mechanism driving the highly specific behavioural changes observed in Toxoplasma‐positive rats.
Logical Pantheism
Authors: Aranyosi István
Published: May 2022

Logical Pantheism is a view according to which God could be identified with logical space, that is, with the space of all possible worlds. It differs from classical pantheism in the latter identifies God merely with the actual Universe, or with nature. There are several reasons why Logical Pantheism is considered superior to classical pantheism by its proponents. One such reason is that it helps the traditional ontological (that is, a priori) argument for the existence of God go through unproblematically. Another core reason is that it ensures all greatmaking properties as belonging to God, in virtue of it containing all possible properties. The view was put forward and defended by István Aranyosi (2013) and by Yujin Nagasawa (2016).
Is seeing believing? Comparing the influence of textual and visual policy narratives on public opinion
Authors: Boscarino Jessica E.
Published: May 2022

Scholars have used the Narrative Policy Framework (NPF) to explain public opinion on a variety of policy issues and across venues. Recent work in the NPF has expanded the application of the framework beyond textual formats to accommodate policy narratives that are visual in nature. This article asks whether individuals respond differently to visual versus text‐based narratives. The research argues that visuals are more easily understood, dramatic, and memorable than text, suggesting that visual narratives may have a greater influence on policy attitudes. I explore these possibilities using Twitter narratives related to the Dakota Access Pipeline in the United States. Exposure to visual narratives significantly increased perception of issue importance, but contrary to expectations, visual narratives were no more effective at enhancing information recall, shifting attitudes, and encouraging activism than textual narratives. The article discusses possible reasons for these findings, the implications for narrative persuasion, and suggestions for future avenues of research.

Related Articles

Chang, Katherine T., and Elizabeth A. Koebele. 2020. “What Drives Coalitions' Narrative Strategy? Exploring Policy Narratives around School Choice.” Politics & Policy 48(4): 618–57. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12367.

Crow, Deserai A., Lydia A. Lawhon, John Berggren, Juhi Huda, Elizabeth Koebele, and Adrianne Kroepsch. 2017. “A Narrative Policy Framework Analysis of Wildfire Policy Discussions in Two Colorado Communities.” Politics & Policy 45(4): 626–56. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12207.

Shanahan, Elizabeth A., Mark K. McBeth, and Paul L. Hathaway. 2011. “Narrative Policy Framework: The Influence of Media Policy Narrative on Public Opinion.” Politics & Policy 39(3): 373–400. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2011.00295.x.
Assessing population genomic structure and polyploidy: a crucial step for native plant restoration
Authors: Richardson Bryce A. , Massatti Rob , Islam‐Faridi Nurul , Johnson Skylar , Kilkenny Francis F.
Published: May 2022

Establishing an effective restoration program requires baseline genetic information to make sound decisions for seed increase and transfer. For many plants this information is lacking, especially among native forbs that are critical for pollinator health. Erigeron speciosus is a widespread, perennial forb occupying montane environments in the western United States and Canada. This species is important in fostering pollinator diversity. Our study examines the population genetic patterns across the species range using reduced‐representation sequencing and surveys for genome duplication using flow cytometry and cytology. These genomic tools provide critical information for seed increase and seed transfer, necessary for restoration programs. Population genetic differentiation (FST) average was 0.13 and ranged from 0.05 to 0.24 among 23 collection sites. Model‐based Bayesian clustering supported a model with collection sites grouped into two populations, occupying distinct geographic regions of this species range. A genetic distance‐based neighbor‐joining tree also supported this division. Flow cytometry of 53 samples from 17 populations had 2C values that ranged from 1.7 to 3.6 pg with a mean 2C value of 2.3 pg. Putative triploids were found in two individuals from one collection site. The spatial distribution of genetic structure supports regionally based taxonomic descriptions of two varieties: speciosus in the North and macranthus in the South. This assessment of genetic structure and genome duplication describes an effective approach in developing baseline genetic information for restoration species, especially those species that may harbor complex taxonomy and polyploidy.
Players with high physical fitness are at greater risk of injury in youth football
Authors: Leppänen Mari , Uotila Aliisa , Tokola Kari , Forsman‐Lampinen Hannele , Kujala Urho M. , Parkkari Jari , Kannus Pekka , Pasanen Kati , Vasankari Tommi
Published: May 2022

The aim of this study was to investigate physical fitness, football‐specific skills, and their association with injury risk in youth football. Altogether 447 male and female players aged 9–14 years (median 12 years) participated in performance tests and prospective follow‐up. The physical fitness tests included five‐jump test for distance, 30‐m sprint, football‐specific figure of eight agility, countermovement jump, and Yo‐Yo intermittent endurance test level 1. The football‐specific skill tests included dribbling and passing tests. Injuries and exposure were registered during the 20‐week follow‐up. Our candidate risk factors were low/high level of physical fitness measured with a composite score of physical fitness tests and low/high level of football‐specific skills measured with a composite score of dribbling and passing tests. Secondarily, we investigated performance in individual tests and their association with injury risk. During the follow‐up, players reported 565 injuries (264 acute and 301 overuse injuries). High level of physical fitness was associated with increased rate of all injuries (age‐, sex‐, and mean team exposure—adjusted IRR: 1.28, 95% CI: 1.04–1.58). The level of football‐specific skills had no influence on the overall injury rate. Burden of overuse injuries, but not acute injuries was significantly higher in most fit players compared with the players in the reference group (IRR: 2.09, 95% CI: 1.04–4.24). In conclusion, most fit players were at greater risk of sustaining injuries in youth competitive football.