bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis in sputum of severe asthma with inflammasome and neutrophil activation
Authors: Versi Ali , Ivan Fransiskus Xaverius , Abdel‐Aziz Mahmoud I. , Bates Stewart , Riley John , Baribaud Frederic , Kermani Nazanin Zounemat , Montuschi Paolo , Dahlen Sven‐Erik , Djukanovic Ratko , Sterk Peter , Maitland‐Van Der Zee Anke H. , Chotirmall Sanjay H. , Howarth Peter , Adcock Ian M. , Chung Kian Fan ,   U‐BIOPRED consortium
Published: June 2023

Background

Because of altered airway microbiome in asthma, we analysed the bacterial species in sputum of patients with severe asthma.

Methods

Whole genome sequencing was performed on induced sputum from non‐smoking (SAn) and current or ex‐smoker (SAs/ex) severe asthma patients, mild/moderate asthma (MMA) and healthy controls (HC). Data were analysed by asthma severity, inflammatory status and transcriptome‐associated clusters (TACs).

Results

α‐diversity at the species level was lower in SAn and SAs/ex, with an increase in Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis, and Haemophilus influenzae and Tropheryma whipplei, respectively, compared to HC. In neutrophilic asthma, there was greater abundance of Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis and in eosinophilic asthma, Tropheryma whipplei was increased. There was a reduction in α‐diversity in TAC1 and TAC2 that expressed high levels of Haemophilus influenzae and Tropheryma whipplei, and Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis, respectively, compared to HC. Sputum neutrophils correlated positively with Moraxella catarrhalis and negatively with Prevotella, Neisseria and Veillonella species and Haemophilus parainfluenzae. Sputum eosinophils correlated positively with Tropheryma whipplei which correlated with pack‐years of smoking. α‐ and β‐diversities were stable at one year.

Conclusions

Haemophilus influenzae and Moraxella catarrhalis were more abundant in severe neutrophilic asthma and TAC2 linked to inflammasome and neutrophil activation, while Haemophilus influenzae and Tropheryma whipplei were highest in SAs/ex and in TAC1 associated with highest expression of IL‐13 type 2 and ILC2 signatures with the abundance of Tropheryma whipplei correlating positively with sputum eosinophils. Whether these bacterial species drive the inflammatory response in asthma needs evaluation.
Proteomic analysis of the esophageal epithelium reveals key features of eosinophilic esophagitis pathophysiology
Authors: Molina‐Jiménez Francisca , Ugalde‐Triviño Lola , Arias‐González Laura , Relaño‐Rupérez Carlos , Casabona Sergio , Pérez‐Fernández María Teresa , Martín‐Domínguez Verónica , Fernández‐Pacheco Jennifer , Laserna‐Mendieta Emilio José , Muñoz‐Hernández Patricia , Arias‐Arias Ángel , Cano Ainara , Muñoz Javier , Lucendo Alfredo J. , Santander Cecilio , Majano Pedro
Published: June 2023

Background

Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic non‐IgE‐mediated allergic disease of the esophagus. An unbiased proteomics approach was performed to investigate pathophysiological changes in esophageal epithelium. Additionally, an RNAseq‐based transcriptomic analysis in paired samples was also carried out.

Methods

Total proteins were purified from esophageal endoscopic biopsies in a cohort of adult EoE patients (n = 25) and healthy esophagus controls (n = 10). Differentially accumulated (DA) proteins in EoE patients compared to control tissues were characterized to identify altered biological processes and signaling pathways. Results were also compared with a quantitative proteome dataset of the human esophageal mucosa. Next, results were contrasted with those obtained after RNAseq analysis in paired samples. Finally, we matched up protein expression with two EoE‐specific mRNA panels (EDP and Eso‐EoE panel).

Results

A total of 1667 proteins were identified, of which 363 were DA in EoE. RNA sequencing in paired samples identified 1993 differentially expressed (DE) genes. Total RNA and protein levels positively correlated, especially in DE mRNA‐proteins pairs. Pathway analysis of these proteins in EoE showed alterations in immune and inflammatory responses for the upregulated proteins, and in epithelial differentiation, cornification and keratinization in those downregulated. Interestingly, a set of DA proteins, including eosinophil‐related and secreted proteins, were not detected at the mRNA level. Protein expression positively correlated with EDP and Eso‐EoE, and corresponded with the most abundant proteins of the human esophageal proteome.

Conclusions

We unraveled for the first time key proteomic features involved in EoE pathogenesis. An integrative analysis of transcriptomic and proteomic datasets provides a deeper insight than transcriptomic alone into understanding complex disease mechanisms.
Nexus between GHRM and organizational competitiveness: role of green innovation and organizational learning of MNEs
Authors: Obeng Patrick , Dogbe Courage Simon Kofi , Boahen Patience Ama Nyantakyiwaa
Published: June 2023

The focus of this study was to assess the mediating effect of green innovation, in the relationship between green human resources management (GHRM) and organizational competitiveness of manufacturing multinational enterprises (MNEs). The study further looked at the moderating effect of organizational learning in the relationship between GHRM on organizational competitiveness of manufacturing MNEs. The population comprises manufacturing MNEs in Ghana. Through purposive and simple random sampling techniques, 231 manufacturing MNEs were selected for the study. Data was analyzed using frequencies, percentages, mean scores, and Structural Equation Modeling (SEM), using SPSS and SMART‐PLS (Partial Least Square) software. The study concludes that green innovation partially mediates the relationship between GHRM and organizational competitiveness. It was further concluded that organizational learning positively moderates the positive relationship between GHRM and organizational competitiveness. The study recommends that manufacturing MNEs should invest and improve the level of their organizational learning as it not only strengthens the effects of GHRM on organizational competitiveness, but it also directly improves competitiveness. Further, particular attention should also pay to green innovation, as it intervenes the relationship between GHRM and organizational competitiveness.
Promoting the advocacy behavior of customers through corporate social responsibility: The role of brand admiration
Authors: Ahmad Naveed , Ullah Zia , AlDhaen Esra , Siddique Irfan
Published: June 2023

Given that personal source of information is preferred by the customers over company‐generated marketing communications, promoting advocacy behavior among customers is of much importance for every organization. Literature suggests that an organization's corporate social responsibility (CSR) activities significantly influence individual behavior. However, the advocacy behavior of customers (ADB), from a CSR perspective, did not receive due attention. To address this literature gap, the current study attempts to explore the relationship among CSR and ADB with the intervening role of brand admiration (BA). To collect the data, customers of a large fast‐food service organization in Pakistan were approached. The proposed relationships were tested through the structural equation modeling (SEM) technique. The statistical evidence verifies a positive link between CSR and ADB, while BA mediated this relationship. These findings will be supportive to the fast‐food business to realize the critical role of CSR for a meaningful customer‐company relationship in the face of competition.
Dynamics between universities and social entrepreneurs: Insights from a multi‐country project in Latin America
Authors: Samaniego Andrea , Amaya Adriana , Izquierdo Edgar
Published: June 2023

Research has stressed the importance of universities in developing entrepreneurial ecosystems (EEs) and their possible social and economic impacts on society. Concerning this commitment, social entrepreneurs (SEs) favor university actions that facilitate the improvement of their individual capital. However, research on this topic has received little attention. This study investigated how universities contribute to the advancement of EEs. It also examines the mechanisms that universities employ to support SEs. Two survey instruments were administered: one to 418 SEs, and the other to 494 people affiliated with universities. The results indicate that universities can be key actors in EEs because they can mobilize resources aligned with their institutional commitments, including training, facilities, and contact with several stakeholders. Additionally, SEs rely on training opportunities and connections with other stakeholders to implement entrepreneurial initiatives. Accordingly, our study highlights the critical role universities play in the development and survival of SEs.
Recommendations on prevention of infections during chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell and bispecific antibody therapy in multiple myeloma
Authors: Mohan Meera , Chakraborty Rajshekhar , Bal Susan , Nellore Anoma , Baljevic Muhamed , D'Souza Anita , Pappas Peter G. , Berdeja Jesus G. , Callander Natalie , Costa Luciano J.
Published: June 2023

Chimeric antigen receptor T (CAR T) cell and bispecific antibody therapies have shown unprecedented efficacy in heavily pretreated patients with multiple myeloma (MM). However, their use is associated with a significant risk of severe infections, which can be attributed to various factors such as hypogammaglobulinemia, neutropenia, lymphopenia, T‐cell exhaustion, cytokine‐release syndrome and immune‐effector cell‐associated neurotoxicity syndrome. As these therapies have been recently approved by regulatory agencies, it is crucial to establish practical guidelines for infection monitoring and prevention until robust data from prospective clinical trials become available. To address this issue, a panel of experienced investigators from the Academic Consortium to Overcome Multiple Myeloma through Innovative Trials (COMMIT) developed consensus recommendations for mitigating infections associated with CAR T‐cell and bispecific antibody therapies in MM patients.
Influence of a simulated hurricane on aquatic insect recolonization in the phytotelma ofHeliconia caribaea(Heliconiacaea)
Authors: Everly Jaclyn , Yee Donald
Published: June 2023

Disturbances like hurricanes can affect diversity and community composition, which may in turn affect ecosystem function. We examined how a simulated hurricane disturbance affected insect communities inhabiting the phytotelma (plant‐held waters) ofHeliconia caribaeain the Luquillo Experimental Forest of eastern Puerto Rico, a tropical island that frequently experiences hurricanes. We hypothesized that disturbance would alter diversity and that largerHeliconiawould attract more species following disturbance due to the area‐diversity relationship described by the Theory of Island Biogeography. Individual flower parts (bracts) ofHeliconiainflorescences (racemes) were artificially disturbed via removal of existing insect communities, then after refilling with water, cohorts ofHeliconiawere destructively sampled biweekly for 6 weeks to assess recolonization patterns of α (bract level), β, and γ (summed across bracts; raceme level) diversity over time and across raceme sizes. Although we found no support for our hypothesis about the effect of raceme size on recolonization, our hypothesis regarding recolonization patterns over time was supported; species richness, evenness, and abundance of bracts increased directly after the disturbance and then decreased below pre‐disturbance levels, and community composition at the raceme level changed significantly over time during recolonization. β Diversity was also greater in smaller racemes compared to larger racemes, suggesting high heterogeneity across bracts ofHeliconiaracemes exacerbated by raceme size and age. Overall, our results highlight the importance of scale and appropriate measurements of diversity (particularly α) in experiments aiming to extrapolate conclusions about the ecological impacts of disturbances across different habitats and ecosystems.
Retinal microvascular and structural changes in intracranial hypertension patients correlate with intracranial pressure
Authors: Kwapong William Robert , Cao Le , Pan Ruosu , Wang Hang , Ye Chen , Tao Wendan , Liu Junfeng , Wu Bo
Published: June 2023

Aims

We aimed to evaluate the retinal microvascular and structural changes in intracranial hypertension (IH) patients compared with an age‐ and sex‐matched control group. We also investigated the association between clinical parameters and retinal changes in IH patients.

Methods

Intracranial hypertension patients were divided into eyes with papilledema (IH‐P) and eyes without papilledema (IH‐WP). IH patients underwent lumbar puncture to measure intracranial pressure (ICP); visual acuity was performed using the Snellen chart. Optical coherence tomography (OCT) was used to image and measure the retinal nerve fiber layer (RNFL) and ganglion cell‐inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) while OCT angiography was used to image and measure the superficial vascular complex (SVC) and deep vascular complex (DVC).

Results

Intracranial hypertension patients showed reduced microvascular densities and thinner retinal thicknesses compared with the control group (all p < 0.001). Compared with the control group, IH‐P showed reduced microvascular densities and thinner retinal thicknesses (all p < 0.001). IH‐P showed reduced SVC density and thinner retinal thicknesses when compared with IH‐WP (p = 0.008 for SVC, p = 0.025 for RNFL, and p = 0.018 for GCIPL). ICP correlated with the microvascular densities and GCIPL thickness in IH patients (p = 0.025 for GCIPL, p = 0.004 for SVC, and p = 0.002 for DVC). A significant association of ICP with SVC (p = 0.010) and DVC (p = 0.005) densities were also found in IH‐P.

Conclusions

Given the observed differences in these noninvasive retinal imaging markers, further research into their clinical utility in IH is needed.
Microbial lipopolysaccharide‐induced inflammation contributes to cognitive impairment and white matter lesion progression in diet‐induced obese mice with chronic cerebral hypoperfusion
Authors: Inaba Toshiki , Yamashiro Kazuo , Kurita Naohide , Ueno Yuji , Miyamoto Nobukazu , Hira Kenichiro , Nakajima Sho , Kijima Chikage , Nakaguro Ryohei , Urabe Takao , Hattori Nobutaka
Published: June 2023

Aims

White matter lesions (WMLs) are involved in the pathological processes leading to cognitive decline and dementia. We examined the mechanisms underlying the exacerbation of ischemia‐induced cognitive impairment and WMLs by diet‐induced obesity, including lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐triggered neuroinflammation via toll‐like receptor (TLR) 4.

Methods

Wild‐type (WT) and TLR4‐knockout (KO) C57BL/6 mice were fed a high‐fat diet (HFD) or low‐fat diet (LFD), and subjected to bilateral carotid artery stenosis (BCAS). Diet groups were compared for changes in gut microbiota, intestinal permeability, systemic inflammation, neuroinflammation, WML severity, and cognitive dysfunction.

Results

In WT mice, HFD induced obesity and increased cognitive impairment and WML severity compared with LFD‐fed mice following BCAS. HFD caused gut dysbiosis and increased intestinal permeability, and plasma LPS and pro‐inflammatory cytokine concentrations. Furthermore, HFD‐fed mice had higher LPS levels and higher neuroinflammatory status, including increased TLR4 expression, in WMLs. In TLR4‐KO mice, HFD also caused obesity and gut dysbiosis but did not increase cognitive impairment or WML severity after BCAS. No difference was found between HFD‐ and LFD‐fed KO mice for LPS levels or inflammatory status in either plasma or WMLs.

Conclusion

Inflammation triggered by LPS–TLR4 signaling may mediate obesity‐associated exacerbation of cognitive impairment and WMLs from brain ischemia.
Association between regular physical activity and lower incidence of colorectal cancer in patients with diabetes mellitus: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Lee Han Hee , Lee Kyu‐na , Kim Jin Su , Cheung Dae Young , Kwon Hyuk‐Sang , Lee Bo‐In , Cho Young‐Seok , Park Soo‐Heon , Han Kyungdo , Kim Jin Il
Published: June 2023

Aim

The aim of this work was to investigate the association between changes in physical activity (PA) status and the development of colorectal cancer (CRC) in patients with diabetes.

Method

This nationwide population study included 1 439 152 patients with diabetes who underwent a health screening provided by the Korean National Health Insurance Service between January 2009 and December 2012 and a follow‐up screening after 2 years. Based on changes in PA status, participants were categorized into four groups: remained inactive, remained active, active‐to‐inactive and inactive‐to‐active.

Results

During the median follow‐up period of 5.2 years, 38 244 new cases of CRC were diagnosed. Compared with the remained inactive group, among the three other groups, the remained active group had the lowest risk of CRC [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 0.93; 95% CI 0.90–0.96], followed by the inactive‐to‐active group (aHR 0.97; 95% CI 0.94–1.00) and active‐to‐inactive group (aHR 0.99; 95% CI 0.96–1.02), after adjusting for confounding variables (p = 0.0007). This reduction in cancer incidence in the remained active group was observed for both rectal cancer (aHR 0.87, 95% CI 0.79–0.95) and colon cancer (aHR 0.93, 95% CI 0.90–0.97), irrespective of sex. In terms of the intensity and amount of PA, moderate intensity PA was the most effective, and a positive correlation was found between the amount of PA and the reduction in CRC incidence.

Conclusion

Regular PA was independently associated with a decreased risk of CRC in patients with diabetes. The intensity and amount of physical activity both play a role in reducing the risk.
Board demographic, structural diversity, and eco‐innovation: International evidence
Authors: Zaman Rashid , Asiaei Kaveh , Nadeem Muhammad , Malik Ihtisham , Arif Muhammad
Published: June 2023

Research question/issue

We examine whether and how board diversity, measured by demographics (i.e., board gender, cultural diversity, tenure, social capital, expertise, and age) and structural diversity (i.e., board independence, size, board seat accumulation‐chair, board compensation, and board meeting frequency), influence corporate eco‐innovation.

Research findings/insights

Utilizing a global sample of publicly listed companies for the period 2004–2019, we find that a one‐standard deviation increase in demographic and structural diversity translates into 4.66% and 7.11% higher corporate eco‐innovation, respectively. Furthermore, we discover that demographic and structural diversity promotes eco‐innovation by offsetting the negative effects of political risk. In an additional analysis, we find evidence that, in the absence of greater external monitoring (institutional investors and analyst following), organizations benefit more from the monitoring role of board diversity.

Theoretical/academic implications

By adopting the concept of “bundling the governance mechanisms,” our study adds to the ongoing discourse about the function of board diversity in addressing corporate climate footprints by offering original evidence that board diversity heterogeneity—demographic and structural diversity—matters for corporate eco‐innovation.

Practitioner/policy implications

Given the increasing pressure on companies to manage their environmental impacts and carbon footprints, our paper has significant ramifications for those involved in promoting eco‐innovative business practices, such as policymakers, regulators, and practitioners.
Inquiry Letters and Tax Aggressiveness
Authors: Wu Yewei , Zhang Bofu
Published: June 2023

This study examined the impact of inquiry letters on corporate tax aggressiveness based on the special inquiry system in Chinese stock exchanges. It found that the receipt of inquiry letters significantly inhibited tax aggressiveness. The channel through which inquiry letters worked involved a monitoring effect on related‐party transactions. The disincentive effect of inquiry letters on corporate tax aggressiveness was mainly found in firms with overseas operations, low‐quality of internal control, and weak tax enforcement. Examining the textual information in inquiry letters, the results show that more questions and the demand for a specific opinion from the auditor led to a greater disincentive effect. The level of detail in firms' reply letters weakened this disincentive effect. Finally, the disincentive effect of tax aggressiveness was more pronounced when inquiry letters pointed to tax‐related issues.
Longitudinal latent polysubstance use patterns among a cohort of people who use opioids in Vancouver, Canada
Authors: Karamouzian Mohammad , Cui Zishan , Hayashi Kanna , DeBeck Kora , Milloy M.‐J. , Buxton Jane A. , Kerr Thomas
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Polysubstance use (PSU) practices are increasing among people who use opioids (PWUO). However, several aspects of longitudinal PSU patterns among PWUO remain understudied. This study aims to identify person‐centred longitudinal patterns of PSU among a cohort of PWUO.

Methods

Using longitudinal data (2005–2018) from three prospective cohort studies including people who use drugs in Vancouver, Canada, we used repeated measures latent class analysis to identify different PSU classes among PWUO. Multivariable generalised estimating equations models weighted by the respective posterior membership probabilities were applied to identify covariates of membership in different PSU classes over time.

Results

Overall, 2627 PWUO (median age at baseline: 36 [quartile 1–3: 25–45]) were included between 2005 and 2018. We found five distinct PSU patterns, including low/infrequent probability of regular substance use (Class 1; 30%), primarily opioid and methamphetamine use (Class 2; 22%), primarily cannabis use (Class 3; 15%), primarily opioid and crack use (Class 4; 29%) and frequent PSU (Class 5; 4%). Membership in Class 2, 4 and 5 was positively associated with several behavioural and socio‐structural adversities.

Discussion and Conclusions

Findings of this longitudinal study suggest PSU is the norm among PWUO and highlights the heterogeneous characteristics of PWUO. The diversities within the population of PWUO need to be recognised in addiction care and treatment as well as optimising resource allocation in the response to the overdose crisis.
Unpacking the ‘black box’: Improving ecological interpretation of regression‐based models
Authors: Prasad Anantha , Peters Matthew , Matthews Stephen , Iverson Louis
Published: June 2023

Aim

Many tree species distribution models use black‐box machine learning techniques that often neglect interpretative aspects and instead focus mainly on maximizing predictive accuracy. In this study, we outline an interpretative modelling framework to gain better ecological insights while mapping abundance patterns of six North American species.

Location

Continental United States and Canada.

Methods

We develop an innovative procedure using regression trees by stabilizing variance, and mapping dominant rules which we term ‘optimized regression tree bagging for interpretation and mapping’ (ORTBIM). We apply this technique to understand ecological features influencing the abundance patterns of three eastern (Pinus strobus, Acer saccharum and Quercus montana), and three western (Picea engelmannii, Pinus ponderosa and Pseudotsuga menziesii) tree species in North America. For these species, we assess and map the dominant climate–terrain interactions that partly determine abundance patterns in the eastern and western regions. In the process, we examine the role of varying responses and scales and explore finer‐scale species climate–terrain niches and non‐linear relationships.

Results

Our study emphasizes the prominent role of elevation and heat–moisture variables in the west and the greater importance of seasonal precipitation and seasonal temperature in the east. The abundance patterns under future climate (SSP5‐8.5) show climate–terrain habitats shifting northward and westward into Canada and Alaska for the eastern species, and predominantly north‐westward for the western species.

Conclusion

Our interpretative modelling framework can be used to gain a more comprehensive understanding of the abundance patterns across the full species range, formulate better predictive models and facilitate improved management practices under climate change.
Evaluation of the effects of ezetimibe on albuminuria and kidney fat in individuals with type 2 diabetes and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Heinrich Niels Søndergaard , Pedersen Rune Ploegstra , Vestergaard Mark Bitsch , Lindberg Ulrich , Andersen Ulrik Bjørn , Haddock Bryan , Hansen Tine Willum , Fornoni Alessia , Larsson Henrik Bo Wiberg , Rossing Peter
Published: June 2023

Aim

To investigate the effects of ezetimibe on the urine albumin creatinine ratio (UACR) and kidney parenchyma fat content (kidney‐PF) in individuals with type 2 diabetes (T2D) and early chronic kidney disease.

Materials and Methods

A randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study of ezetimibe 10 mg once daily for 16 weeks in individuals with T2D and a UACR of 30 mg/g or higher was conducted. Kidney‐PF was assessed with magnetic resonance spectroscopy. Geometric mean changes from baseline were derived from linear regressions.

Results

A total of 49 participants were randomized to ezetimibe (n = 25) or placebo (n = 24). Overall, mean ± standard deviation age was 67 ± 7 years, body mass index was 31 ± 4 kg/m2 and the proportion of men was 84%. The mean estimated glomerular filtration rate was 76 ± 22 mL/min/1.73m2 and median (first‐third quartile) UACR was 95 (41‐297) mg/g. Median kidney‐PF was 1.0% (0.3%‐2.1%). Compared with placebo, ezetimibe did not significantly reduce UACR (mean [95% confidence interval] change: −3% [−28%‐31%]) or kidney‐PF (mean change: −38% [−66%‐14%]). In participants with baseline kidney‐PF above the median, ezetimibe reduced kidney‐PF significantly (mean change: −60% [−84%‐−3%]) compared with placebo, while the reduction in UACR was not significant (mean change: −28% [−54%‐15%]).

Conclusions

Ezetimibe did not reduce the UACR or kidney‐PF on top of modern T2D management. However, kidney‐PF was reduced with ezetimibe in participants with high baseline kidney‐PF.
Diabetes, fasting blood glucose and the efficacy of remote ischaemic conditioning: A secondary analysis of the RICAMIS trial
Authors: Zhang Yi‐Na , Dai Ying‐Jie , Cui Yu , Wu Qiong , Zhang Nan‐Nan , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: June 2023

Aim

To investigate whether diabetes and fasting blood glucose (FBG) levels affect the efficacy of remote ischaemic conditioning (RIC) using the database included in the Remote Ischaemic Conditioning for Acute Moderate Ischaemic Stroke (RICAMIS) trial.

Methods

A total of 1707 patients were enrolled in this post hoc study, including 535 patients with diabetes and 1172 without diabetes. Each group was further divided into RIC and control subgroups. The primary outcome was excellent functional outcome, defined as a modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score of 0 to 1 at 90 days. The difference in the proportion of patients with excellent functional outcome between the RIC subgroup and control subgroup was compared in diabetic and non‐diabetic patients, respectively, and the interactions of treatment assignment with diabetes status and FBG were evaluated.

Results

Compared with the control group, RIC produced a significantly higher proportion of patients with excellent functional outcome in the non‐diabetic group (70.5% vs. 63.2%; odds ratio [OR] 1.487, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.134‐1.949; P = 0.004), while a similar, but not significant difference was observed in the diabetic group (65.3% vs. 59.8%; OR 1.424, 95% CI 0.978‐2.073; P = 0.065). Similar results were observed in patients with normal FBG levels (69.3% vs. 63.7%; OR 1.363, 95% CI 1.011‐1.836; P = 0.042) and those with high FBG levels (64.2% vs. 58%; OR 1.550, 95% CI 1.070‐2.246; P = 0.02). Furthermore, we did not find an interaction effect of intervention (RIC or control) by different diabetes status or FBG levels on clinical outcomes (P > 0.05 for all). However, diabetes (OR 0.741, 95% CI 0.585‐0.938; P = 0.013) and high FBG (OR 0.715, 95% CI 0.553‐0.925; P = 0.011) were independently associated with functional outcomes in patients overall.

Conclusion

Diabetes and FBG levels did not influence the neuroprotective effect of RIC in acute moderate ischaemic stroke, although diabetes and high FBG levels were independently associated with functional outcomes.
Fine earth soil bulk density at 0.2 m depth from Land Use and Coverage Area Frame Survey (LUCAS) soil 2018
Authors: Pacini Lorenza , Yunta Felipe , Jones Arwyn , Montanarella Luca , Barrè Pierre , Saia Sergio , Chen Songchao , Schillaci Calogero
Published: June 2023

Soil Bulk Density (BD) is an extremely important variable because it is an important site characterization parameter, and it is highly relevant for policy development because it is mandatory for calculating soil nutrient stocks. BD can influence soil chemical properties, land‐use planning and agronomic management. The 2018 Land Use and Coverage Area Frame Survey (LUCAS) saw the unprecedented collection of BD core analysis in a subset of the locations in Europe and the United Kingdom where soil physical and chemical properties were analysed in the 2009 and the 2015 sampling campaigns. Here, we integrated the LUCAS 2018 BD sampling campaign with the mass fraction of coarse fragments previously determined in LUCAS 2009–2015 in order to provide a dataset of the volume fraction of coarse fragments and the BD of the fine earth and improve soil organic carbon (SOC) stock estimation accuracy for topsoil. BD data sampled at 0–10 and 10–20 cm were averaged to harmonize the BD with the mass fraction of coarse fragments measured in 2009, 2012 and 2015. Samples were from cropland, grassland and woodland soils, which accounted for 41%, 21% and 30%, respectively, of the total number of selected sites (n = 6059); ‘bareland’, and ‘shrubland’ accounted for 3% of the sites each, whereas ‘artificial land’ accounted for <1%. Only six samples were classified as ‘wetland’. The dataset was produced assuming the mass density of the coarse fraction to be constant across all LUCAS soil samples. We also estimated the SOC stocks associated with LUCAS 2018 BD and SOC content measurements and showed that correcting the BD by the coarse mass fraction instead of the coarse volume fraction generates SOC stock underestimation. We found the highest deviations in woodlands and shrublands. We showed that, when SOC stock is computed with coarse mass fraction, the error compared with the computation by volume may vary depending on the SOC and coarse mass fraction. This may imply a SOC stock underestimation for European soils. This dataset fits into the big framework of LUCAS soil properties monitoring and contributes both to soil awareness and soil research and assessments, which are two important objectives of the Soil Strategy and the European Soil Observatory (EUSO).
The Creed of Nicaea
Authors: Kinzig Wolfram
Published: June 2023

This article gives an account of the discussions about the creed that took place at the Council of Nicaea in 325. It considers major problems regarding its origin and history and outlines the circumstances of its composition, its peculiar structure, and its purpose on the basis of the latest research. Finally, it discusses the legacy of Nicaea for today's theology. The theological development that began at Nicaea in 325 and culminated in the victory of the Neo‐Nicenes at Constantinople in 381 brought about a conceptual clarification that helped to establish a wide consensus regarding how the Christian God and God's saving work in Christ and in the Holy Spirit is described. This development continues to influence Christian theology after 1700 years, despite heavy criticism in recent decades, some of it justified. It is to be hoped that the anniversary of Nicaea is an encouragement to go beyond commemorating the golden age of patristics by developing new ways to communicate the significance of the incarnation, passion, and resurrection of Christ for our salvation to a wider public.
Consumption of shark products: The interface of sustainability, trade (mis)labelling, human health and human rights
Authors: Hasan Md Robiul , Chaplin Jennifer A. , Spencer Peter B. , Braccini Matias
Published: June 2023

Sharks and rays evolved 450 million years ago, during the Late Ordovician Period. However, during the modern Anthropocene, shark populations have declined at considerable rates, and recent global assessments indicate about one in three species is threatened with extinction. A notable reason for this elevated extinction risk is overfishing linked to increased demand for shark fins and other products. Here, we review multiple dimensions of consuming shark products, ranging from stock sustainability, product (mis)labelling and trade, the human health implications of consuming shark products, and illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing and slavery and labour abuses in the fishing industry. We conclude that traceability and increased transparency in seafood supply chains is essential to overcome obstacles to consumption of sustainable, ethical and healthy shark products. We also provide a decision tree outlining steps in consumer choice that would foster such consumption. Our aim is to provide a holistic view on issues concerning the consumption of shark products that will help policymakers, the public, management and law enforcement agencies to advocate for ecologically‐ and ethically sustainable consumption of shark products and thereby empower the general public to make informed decisions on which shark products they consume.
Parental competences in fathers and mothers of very‐low‐birth‐weight preterm infants
Authors: Jiménez‐Luque Natalia , Benavente‐Fernández Isabel , Ruiz‐González Estefanía , Lubián‐López Simón , Sánchez‐Sandoval Yolanda
Published: June 2023

Objective

The goal was to analyze parental competences in Spanish families with very‐low‐birth‐weight infants (≤32 weeks and/or less 1500 g) over 18 months of corrected age.

Background

Parenting in families of very preterm infants is an interesting focus of research as we advance in the knowledge of how parental competences can have an important impact on child development.

Method

Sixty‐eight mothers and 56 fathers completed measures of parental competences, sociofamily risk, parental stress, social support, and emotional symptoms. Clinical characteristics and neonatal medical risk data were collected after birth. Statistical analyses were performed to compare parental competences with those of mothers and fathers of non‐preterm infants. Generalized estimating equations were used for analysis, adjusted by family unit.

Results

Mothers and fathers of preterm infants score higher in most dimensions of parental competences compared to a control group. Focusing on the preterm population, mothers score higher than fathers in daily involvement and mentalization and lower in parental self‐care. When studied separately, we found different scores for fathers and mothers in parental competences (sociofamily risk, parental stress, social support, and emotional symptoms).

Conclusion

Parents of preterm infants present better parental competences than parents of non‐preterm infants when their children reach 18 months of age. It is important to consider the differences in parental competences between the mothers and fathers of these children.

Implications

Our findings suggest the need to address parental competences to develop preventive and adaptive strategies in parents of preterm infants to promote positive parenting.
A random forest‐based fatigue damage classification framework using global loading and displacement information
Authors: Lee Wayne , Dharmadhikari Susheel , Basak Amrita
Published: June 2023

The article presents a random forest‐based damage classification methodology built upon the force and displacement data obtained via fatigue testing of Al7075‐T6 specimens. Four features, namely, average displacement (D), material stiffness (ST), energy dissipation rate (EDR), and cumulative energy dissipation (CED), are defined from the collected data. These features are classified into healthy and cracked states based on the information obtained from a high‐resolution confocal microscope and a digital microscope. Random forest‐based classifiers are, thereafter, trained and tested using the individual as well as different combinations of the four features. The results reveal that, when used individually, CED shows the best accuracy of 80% in detecting a fatigue crack. When two or more pairs of features are used, the accuracy increases significantly to beyond 95%. CED is observed to be the most important feature for developing efficient classifiers for fatigue crack detection. The results demonstrate that the random forest classifier is a viable option to accurately detect fatigue damage based on the four features using only global information.
Intense pressure on small and juvenile coral reef fishes threatens fishery production in Madagascar
Authors: Ranaivomanana Harinirina Sandra , Jaquemet Sébastien , Ponton Dominique , Behivoke Faustinato , Randriatsara Roddy Michel , Mahafina Jamal , Léopold Marc
Published: June 2023

Size‐based indicators are appropriate for monitoring status and guiding management of multi‐species, multi‐gear fisheries, such as coral reef fisheries. From May 2018 to April 2019, size distribution and composition of coral reef fish catches were monitored through a participatory landing survey in southwestern Madagascar. Fishers targeted a large diversity of fish taxa (75 families) and range of sizes (1.6–86 cm). Five predominant gears accounted for most of the catch (1360 [±39] t), including mosquito net trawl (27.7%), beach seine (26.8%), speargun (7.2%), gillnet (30.6%), and handline (7.1%). Due to widespread use of gears made from mosquito nets, 75% of fishes smaller than 9 cm and 47% of juvenile fishes were represented in the total catch number. Large‐size taxa (Scaridae, Lethrinidae, Siganidae, Acanthuridae, Synodontidae, Mullidae, and Labridae) were mostly harvested as juveniles. Catches varied by 8%–70% throughout the year. Size of coral reef fish, annual catches, and catch rates all declined since the 1990s.
Fluorescent Dyes as Partitioning Tracers for the Estimation of NAPL‐Mass Saturation in Porous Media
Authors: Visitacion‐Carrillo Sofia , Colombano Stéfan , Fatin‐Rouge Nicolas , Davarzani Dorian
Published: June 2023

Accurate estimation of the nonaqueous phase liquids (NAPLs) saturation such as chlorinated organic compounds (COCs) in aquifers is crucial for the proper remediation of contaminated groundwater. A combination of conservative and partitioning tracers (PTs) are commonly used to assess NAPL saturations in the subsurface at COC release sites, using the partitioning interwell tracer test (PITT). In this study, five fluorescent dyes were assessed as PTs to estimate the saturation of octanol and 3 COC NAPLs in soil columns. PT experiments required an initial assessment of both partitioning (NAPL/water and octanol/water) and linear free‐energy relations. The predictability of the partition coefficients was correlated to the pH of the two‐phase fluids for both systems (NAPL/water and octanol/water). The COC NAPLs were acidic and some PTs with acid‐base properties, like fluorescein, are easily influenced by pH. The PITT experiments were performed in a column packed with glass beads, using rhodamine WT as PT because of its particular specificity for the complex mixture of NAPLs and sodium chloride as the inert tracer. Breakthrough curves of rhodamine WT were examined to estimate the saturation of a NAPL made of a complex mixture of COCs. The DNAPL residual saturation estimation accuracy was sensitive to both pH variations and the water velocity. The latter was represented by an exponential function which resulted from non‐equilibrium measurements, heterogeneous sweeping of the contaminated sample, and redistribution of the NAPL droplets in the medium.
Healthcare interventions for older people with dementia and family caregivers in Europe: A scoping review
Authors: García‐Vivar Cristina , Konradsen Hanne , Kolbrun Svavarsdóttir Erla , Brødsgaard Anne , Dieperink Karin B. , Luttik Marie‐Louise , Mahrer‐Imhof Romy , Østergaard Birte , Imhof Lorenz
Published: June 2023

Aim

This study aimed to examine the extent, range and variety of research in Europe describing healthcare interventions for older people with dementia (PwD) and family caregivers.

Methods

This was a scoping review and followed the PRISMA Scoping Review guideline. MEDLINE, CINAHL and Cochrane library databases were searched for studies published between 2010 and 2020. Studies reporting healthcare interventions in Europe for PwD over 65 years and their family caregivers were included.

Results

Twenty‐one studies from six European countries were included. The types of healthcare intervention identified were categorized as follows: (1) family unit intervention (interventions for both PwD and their family caregiver), (2) individual intervention (separate interventions for PwD or family caregivers) and (3) family caregiver only intervention (interventions for family caregivers only but with outcomes for both PwD and family caregivers).

Conclusions

This review provides insight into healthcare interventions for older PwD and family caregivers in Europe. More studies are needed that focus on the family as a unit of care in dementia.
Representation of visible minorities in Canada's public service: Slow but significant progression
Authors: Opare‐Addo Joyce
Published: June 2023

This study examined the representation of visible minority (VM) employees in Canada's public service to clarify the extent to which Canada's Employment Equity Act (EEA) for diversity and equity management has influenced VM employment outcomes, with a focus on executive (leadership) and professional representation. Data from EEA annual reports (1997–2020) were analysed, and the results for VMs in the public service were juxtaposed with those for VMs in the broader labour market. VM employees' numerical representation under the EEA had increased and was slowly trending upwards in executive roles, exceeding their workforce availability in 2020. However, the representation of VMs in public service failed to match their actual proportion in the larger Canadian population. This group had a stronger representation in scientific and professional occupations, reflecting current immigration policies' support for skilled migration. The VM workforce in the broader labour market lacked equal representation, which indicates significant policy implications.
Clinical Practice Guidelines for tuberous sclerosis complex‐associated renal angiomyolipoma by the Japanese Urological Association: Summary of the update
Authors: Osawa Takahiro , Oya Mototsugu , Okanishi Tohru , Kuwatsuru Ryohei , Kawano Haruna , Tomita Yoshihiko , Niida Yo , Nonomura Norio , Hatano Takashi , Fujii Yasuhisa , Mizuguchi Masashi , Shinohara Nobuo
Published: June 2023

New clinical issues have been raised through an interval of 7 years from the previous version (2016). In this study, we update the “Clinical Practice Guidelines for tuberous sclerosis complex‐associated renal angiomyolipoma” as a 2023 version under guidance by the Japanese Urological Association. The present guidelines were cooperatively prepared by the Japanese Urological Association and Japanese Society of Tuberous Sclerosis Complex; committee members belonging to one of the two societies or specializing in the treatment of this disease were selected to prepare the guidelines in accordance with the “Guidance for preparing treatment guidelines” published by Minds (2020 version). The “Introduction” consisted of four sections, “Background Questions (BQ)” consisted of four sections, “Clinical Questions (CQ)” consisted of three sections, and “Future Questions (FQ)” consisted of three sections (total: 14 sections). Concerning CQ, an agreement was confirmed through voting by the committee members based on the direction and strength of recommendation, accuracy of evidence, and recommendation comments. The present guidelines were updated based on the current evidence. We hope that the guidelines will provide guiding principles for the treatment of tuberous sclerosis complex‐associated renal angiomyolipoma to many urologists, becoming a foundation for subsequent updating.
Genomic inbreeding estimation, runs of homozygosity, and heterozygosity‐enriched regions uncover signals of selection in the Quarter Horse racing line
Authors: Santos Wellington B. , Pereira Camila B. , Maiorano Amanda M. , Arce Cherlynn D. Silva , Baldassini Welder A. , Pereira Guilherme L. , Chardulo Luis Artur L. , Neto Otávio R. M. , Oliveira Henrique N. , Curi Rogério A.
Published: June 2023

With the advent of genomics, significant progress has been made in the genetic improvement of livestock species, particularly through increased accuracy in predicting breeding values for selecting superior animals and the possibility of performing a high‐resolution genetic scan throughout the genome of an individual. The main objectives of this study were to estimate the individual genomic inbreeding coefficient based on runs of homozygosity (FROH), to identify and characterize runs of homozygosity and heterozygosity (ROH and ROHet, respectively; length and distribution) throughout the genome, and to map selection signatures in relevant chromosomal regions in the Quarter Horse racing line. A total of 336 animals registered with the Brazilian Association of Quarter Horse Breeders (ABQM) were genotyped. One hundred and twelve animals were genotyped using the Equine SNP50 BeadChip (Illumina, USA), with 54,602 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs; 54K). The remaining 224 samples were genotyped using the Equine SNP70 BeadChip (Illumina, USA) with 65,157 SNPs (65K). To ensure data quality, we excluded animals with a call rate below 0.9. We also excluded SNPs located on non‐autosomal chromosomes, as well as those with a call rate below 0.9 or ap‐value below 1 × 10−5for Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium. The results indicate moderate to high genomic inbreeding, with 46,594 ROH and 16,101 ROHet detected. In total, 30 and 14 candidate genes overlap with ROH and ROHet regions, respectively. The ROH islands showed genes linked to crucial biological processes, such as cell differentiation (CTBP1,WNT5B, andTMEM120B), regulation of glucose metabolic process (MAEAandNKX1‐1), heme transport (PGRMC2), and negative regulation of calcium ion import (VDAC1). In ROHet, the islands showed genes related to respiratory capacity (OR7D19,OR7D4G,OR7D4E, andOR7D4J) and muscle repair (EGFRandBCL9). These findings could aid in selecting animals with greater regenerative capacity and developing treatments for muscle disorders in the QH breed. This study serves as a foundation for future research on equine breeds. It can contribute to developing reproductive strategies in animal breeding programs to improve and preserve the Quarter Horse breed.