bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seeing Beyond the Symptoms: Biomarkers and Brain Regions Linked to Cognitive Decline in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Hojjati Seyed Hani , Babajani-Feremi Abbas ,   the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: April 2023

Objective

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most prevalent form of dementia, and its pathological process can only be detected through clinical approaches. Early diagnosis of AD is difficult, as most individuals with AD are not diagnosed in the early stages, and symptoms become more prominent as the disease progresses. Therefore, identifying specific biomarkers and predicting AD in the early stages is crucial. In this study, we aimed to identify effective biomarkers and brain regions that are strongly associated with cognitive decline in AD.

Methods

We included a large sample of 1759 individuals, covering a range of cognitive aging, including healthy controls (HC), mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and AD. We extracted nine different biomarkers based on three neuroimaging modalities: structural magnetic resonance imaging (sMRI), positron emission tomography (PET), and diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) to predict three neuropsychological scores: Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), Clinical Dementia Rating Scale Sum of Boxes (CDRSB), and Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-Cognitive Subscale (ADAS). Rather than integrating biomarkers, we monitored and explored the complex interrelated mechanisms underlying the development of AD separately for each biomarker. For prediction tasks, we used the ensemble regression tree by implementing bagging and random forest techniques in four different combination groups consisting of different subsets of subject categories (i.e., HC, MCI, and AD).

Results

Our results demonstrated that different biomarkers could predict all three cognitive scores, and we identified the most associated features with the cognitive scores, including (a) the right transverse temporal based on Amyloid-β (Aβ) deposition, (b) the left and right entorhinal cortex, left inferior temporal gyrus, and left middle temporal gyrus based on average cortical thickness (ATH), and (c) the left uncinate fasciculus based on mean diffusivity (MD).

Conclusions

The results of this study emphasize the significance of taking an interdisciplinary approach in comprehending the underlying mechanisms of AD. Additionally, these findings shed light on the diversity of the disease and have the potential to contribute to the development of more efficient treatments.
A new full-field XRF imaging station at Synchrotron Light Research Institute
Authors: Klysubun Wantana , Tarawarakarn Pongjakr , Thamsanong Noppawath , Mahakhod Sompin , Amonpattaratkit Penphitcha , Cholsuk Chanakan
Published: April 2023

A full-field X-ray fluorescence imaging (FXI) station was recently developed at beamline BL8 of Synchrotron Light Research Institute (SLRI), Thailand. An unfocused, synchrotron X-ray beam from the bending magnet with a size of 2 mm (vertical) × 13 mm (horizontal) and photon energy of 10 keV was employed in the FXI experiments. A sample stage was tilted by 7.5° to enlarge the vertical beam size. X-ray fluorescence images were recorded by an energy-dispersive, 256 × 256 array, pn-type charge coupled device detector equipped with a polycapillary optics, providing a full-frame image size of 12.3 mm × 12.3 mm. The incident photon flux per pixel was 3 × 104 photons s−1 (100 mA)−1 and the experimental spatial resolution was 68 µm. Image processing was carried out offline using an in-house MATLAB program capable of elemental selection and inhomogeneity intensity correction. Elemental detection limits of FXI were found to decrease with increasing atomic number, i.e. 0.3 to 0.03 wt% for Z = 19 (K) to 30 (Zn). Compared with the BL6b microbeam imaging (µXI) station at SLRI with higher photon flux per pixel, 3 × 1010 photons s−1 (100 mA)−1, a tenfold sample area can be obtained and 13 times higher peak-to-background (PKB) ratio at Zn K
α measured with the same experimental time (8 h). Simultaneous measurement of FXI is more time-efficient against the long overhead times of µXI scanning over large pixel numbers, >65000. To demonstrate potential applications of the new FXI station, various types of samples were examined: dendritic limestone, ancient bronze and dried fish. Analyzed elemental images enabled us to identify areas rich in Mn on the limestone, Sn and Cu separation in the bronze, and Zn nutrition in the dried fish eye.
Design and evaluation of a self-paced cybersecurity tool
Authors: Shojaifar Alireza , Fricker Samuel A.
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to present the evaluation of a self-paced tool, CyberSecurity Coach (CYSEC), and discuss the adoption of CYSEC for cybersecurity capability improvement in small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). Cybersecurity is increasingly a concern for SMEs. Previous literature has explored the role of tools for awareness raising. However, few studies validated the effectiveness and usefulness of cybersecurity tools for SMEs in real-world practices.

Design/methodology/approach

This study is built on a qualitative approach to investigating how CYSEC is used in SMEs to support awareness raising and capability improvement. CYSEC was placed in operation in 12 SMEs. This study first conducted a survey study and then nine structured interviews with chief executive officers (CEOs) and chief information security officers (CISO).

Findings

The results emphasise that SMEs are heterogeneous. Thus, one cybersecurity solution may not suit all SMEs. The findings specify that the tool’s adoption varied quite widely. Four factors are primary determinants influencing the adoption of CYSEC: personalisation features, CEOs’ or CISOs’ awareness level, CEOs’ or CISOs’ cybersecurity and IT knowledge and skill and connection to cybersecurity expertise.

Originality/value

This empirical study provides new insights into how a self-paced tool has been used in SMEs. This study advances the understanding of cybersecurity activities in SMEs by studying the adoption of CYSEC. Moreover, this study proposes significant dimensions for future research.
The correlation between social resilience and flooding in low-income communities: a case of Mzuzu City, Malawi
Authors: Bwanali Wisdom , Manda Mtafu
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Floods are among the most frequent urban disasters in cities of the global south where capacity and resource limitations collude with rapid urbanization to force many poor people to live in flood prone settlements. This paper investigated the impact of flood disasters on social resilience of low-income communities in Mzuzu City, Malawi.

Design/methodology/approach

Using a quantitative design, 345 households were interviewed in Zolozolo West and Mzilawaingwe Wards in Mzuzu City. The survey instrument achieved a 100% response rate. A reliability test using Cronbach’s alpha showed internal consistency of survey instrument at 0.711 for Zolozolo West Ward and 0.730 for Mzilawaingwe Ward.

Findings

Out of the eleven indicators of social resilience used in this study, six indicators showed no correlation with the outcome expectancy of social resilience. Of the five indicators that showed relationship with social resilience, only improvisation and inventiveness (rs = 0.356, p = 0.000 at two-tailed, n = 213; rs = 0.610, p = 0.000 at two-tailed, n = 132) had a strong relationship with the outcome expectancy of social resilience.

Research limitations/implications

The study was only conducted in two settlements; caution should be observed when generalizing the results.

Practical implications

Practitioners should ensure that social resilience strengthening mechanisms are incorporated in flood risk management as they strive to achieve SDG 11 of making cities inclusive, safe, resilient and sustainable.

Originality/value

The study showed how floods can negatively impact the social resilience of low-income communities, which is different from common knowledge that floods can enhance community social resilience.
The role of motivational interviewing training in supporting the practice of COVID-19 contact tracers
Authors: Atkinson Cathy , Barrow Joanna , Earnshaw Paul
Published: April 2023

Purpose

To explore how motivational interviewing (MI) training might benefit the practice of COVID-19 contact tracers.

Design/methodology/approach

Following co-production of a MI training package, with a United Kingdom (UK) track and trace organisation, training was delivered virtually to 101 volunteer participants involved in contact tracing. Data were captured via an online survey, incorporating questions from recognised measures of occupational self-efficacy and workplace wellbeing, prior to the training. Open data fields were used to gather feedback about participants' reasons for attending, and views about the training afterwards.

Findings

Although the contact tracers reported high occupational self-efficacy and workplace wellbeing, both quantitative and qualitative data suggested participants saw practitioner value and utility in MI.

Research limitations/implications

The sample was self-selecting and typically involved contact tracers from UK local authorities. The study did not measure impact on compliance with self-isolation guidance and/or providing details of contacts, and larger-scale research would be needed to establish this. This was not a pre-post-test evaluation study, and measures of occupational self-efficacy and workplace wellbeing were gathered to give insight into the sample and to test the feasibility of using this survey for a future large-scale study. The research was conducted during the height of the pandemic. While UK COVID-19 contact tracing services have since been reduced, there are potential implications for infection control more generally.

Practical implications

MI is potentially a useful approach for enhancing contact tracing practice. However, implementation factors should be carefully considered, to ensure effective and sustainable practice.

Social implications

Improved practice in contact tracing could have potential benefits in infection control, through improving compliance with central guidance, although this requires more widespread investigation.

Originality/value

This is the first empirical study to investigate how MI training could benefit COVID-19 contact tracing practice.
The optimisation of Qardhul Hasan management in Islamic banking: enhancing its role in empowering the community
Authors: Nugraheni Peni , Muhammad Rifqi
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Qardhul Hasan (QH) is a type of Islamic contract that prioritises benevolent aspects between beneficiaries and the fund provider. The effective management and distribution of QH can contribute to overcoming economic problems in society. This study aims to explore the potential to enlarge the sources of QH funding and QH financing in Indonesian Islamic banks. The paper proposes a framework for QH management in Islamic banks by identifying the sources of QH funds as well as the management and potential allocations of QH funds.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a descriptive analysis method with a framework-based review to discuss the strategy of optimising the sources, financing and management of QH in Islamic banks. The implementation of QH in the Islamic banking industry is described based on the previous literature and current phenomena.

Findings

To positively impact economic development, Islamic banks can collaborate with parties that are more focused on charitable activities and have greater resources to channel and use QH funds. This study also formulates a framework of QH funds management that prioritises efforts to multiply benefits for both the fund provider and the beneficiaries.

Research limitations/implications

The descriptive method used in this paper comprises preliminary research to analyse the current phenomena and potential strategies that can be implemented. Future studies may use empirical data to strengthen the analysis.

Practical implications

The recommendations of this paper can be used by relevant social fund management institutions in collaboration with Islamic banking.

Social implications

QH reflects not only the social aspects of Islamic banks and extends beyond their corporate social responsibility activities, its effective management will make a greater contribution to reducing the level of unemployment, poverty alleviation and supporting the country’s economic development.

Originality/value

This paper provides a framework that integrates financial institutions in maximising QH fund management to encourage greater benefits for the community. Although previous studies have mentioned the important role of QH, relatively few have considered how Islamic banks maximise its management.
Hyperfocus and offending behaviour: a systematic review
Authors: Worthington Rachel , Wheeler Suzanne
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Hyperfocus (HF) is characterised by an intense state of concentration/focus. The purpose of this study is to explore in what ways HF has been found to contribute towards offending behaviour and what treatments have been found to be efficacious to reduce offending behaviour where HF was a contributing factor.

Design/methodology/approach

The systematic review was performed according to the recommendations of the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses. Papers were screened for quality appraisal and risk of bias. The initial search yielded 9,446 articles. Fifty-seven papers were deemed as meeting the inclusion criteria.

Findings

HF was noted to act as a vulnerability factor for aggression, sexual offending, radicalisation and stalking. HF was also observed in clients with psychopathy, autism, mental illness and those without a diagnosis. Thus, HF was not found to be offence or diagnosis specific. Furthermore, HF was found across males and females and adults and adolescents. The results identified themes in relation to the mechanisms by which HF may contribute to offending and suggested interventions for HF and offending.

Practical implications

Practitioners working with clients with HF currently lack evidence on the extent to which this contributes towards offending and recidivism and how HF could be addressed in interventions. Future research is needed to establish the role of HF in offending behaviour. Ideally, this should involve longitudinal data collection, retrospective analysis of data and sophisticated statistical analysis. This should also include exploration of the ways in which HF may be interconnected with offence risks/need factors which contribute towards offending. Research could inform the development of formal measurement tools for HF which are validated with norms for adult and adolescent offender samples. Practitioners should use case formulation to explore if HF represents a treatment need for clients they are working with.

Originality/value

This review noted that although HF has been postulated as being an important contributing factor to offending behaviour, few studies have tested this directly. From the limited studies available, HF was found to be relevant across different types of offences. HF was noted to contribute to offending due to neuropsychological mechanisms linked to executive functioning deficits and positive rewards associated with offending behaviour. Reasons for the lack of HF research are noted and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Shifting shapes and unknown spirits at play on the borders of the human imagination: a critical reading of the serpent-woman
Authors: Golson Emily
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The primary purpose of this study is to determine if the main character is a shapeshifter and, if so, how does the tale contribute to shapeshifting lore.

Design/methodology/approach

The focus of the study is confined to a version of the tale that appears in Jane Yolen's Folktales From Around the World (1986) and on summaries of other versions of shapeshifting tales when needed. Support for the findings is provided by an examination of the observations and rhetorical techniques employed by what appears to be an unreliable narrator and selected knowledge and practices from a variety of academic disciplines.

Findings

The research findings neither confirm nor deny that the main character is or is not a shapeshifter.

Research limitations/implications

Instead, the critical reading confirms the traditional characterization of folktales as coming from diverse folk roots and disappearing or changing as they circulate through geographical space and narrative time.

Practical implications

It also implies that the tale has outgrown its practical and social folk roots and now extends far beyond that of traditional shapeshifting or literary folktales.

Social implications

By bringing to light the racial and gender fears, ignorance and emotional and physical violence that lurk just below the surface of the society from which serpent-woman emerges, the study creates a haunting vision of the embedded biases that lurk just below the surface of many societies.

Originality/value

To this author's knowledge, this is the first study of this tale to appear in publication. The findings need further investigation.
Impact of digital leadership on open innovation: a moderating serial mediation model
Authors: Fatima Tasneem , Masood Afshan
Published: April 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the relevant but overlooked intervening role of knowledge sharing and innovation capability between digital leadership and open innovation. This study hypothesizes that top management knowledge value (TMKV) can strengthen the relationship between digital leadership and knowledge sharing. In line with the resource- and knowledge-based views, the serial mediation model explains how organizations can achieve open innovation through knowledge sharing and innovation capability development under digital leadership.

Design/methodology/approach

The research hypotheses were tested with survey data collected in four different rounds, separated by three to four weeks each, from 250 employees working in telecom and IT companies. The statistical analyses relied on the PROCESS macro, which enabled a simultaneous estimation of the direct, mediation and moderated mediation effects that underpin the proposed theoretical framework.

Findings

Results showed good support for the serial mediation model. TMKV was found a significant factor to improve knowledge sharing among employees.

Practical implications

The role of leadership is inevitable in the journey of organizational performance, and digital leadership has become a significant phenomenon in this regard. To achieve open innovation, organizations need digital leadership that induce knowledge sharing and innovation capability.

Originality/value

This study contributes to extant research by explaining how digital leadership induces knowledge sharing and innovation capability to achieve open innovation that is highly important to compete and outperform the rivals.
How transformational leadership, workplace spirituality and resilience enhance the service recovery performance of FLEs: a theoretical integration of COR theory and SDT
Authors: Kim Quy Hoang Thi , Tran Mai Dong , Dinh Tien Minh
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The present study aims to explore the linkages among transformational leadership, workplace spirituality and frontline employee (FLE) service recovery performance in the aviation service industry. The resilience of individuals was taken as a mediator for the associations between transformational leadership as well as workplace spirituality and frontline employee's service recovery performance. The hypothesized research model was examined by integrating the principles of COR theory and the SDT perspective on psychological needs.

Design/methodology/approach

The research model was evaluated via partial least squares (PLS). In particular, SmartPLS 3.0 software was utilized to examine anticipated correlations through a poll of 371 air service provider frontline employees.

Findings

Results demonstrated that transformational leadership had a positive impact on both service recovery performance and spirituality in the workplace. The positive connection between workplace spirituality and service recovery performance was also supported. Further, the mediating role of an employee's resilience in these relationships was established. The paper provides a significant contribution with both theoretical and practical implications.

Practical implications

The present research also provides some practical implications for the aviation industry. Since the aviation industry is a high-contact service industry, aviation frontline employees play a crucial role in service recovery strategies. Thus, air service providers need to provide these employees with ample resources to effectively handle service failures. Moreover, the service recovery performance of air service providers may benefit from the hiring of managers with strong transformational leadership styles. Therefore, these providers should take leadership style into account when recruiting, promoting and training supervisors. Managers should, among other activities, implement transformational leadership approaches, such as inspiring and motivating, establishing a supportive organizational climate, paying attention to employees' needs and engaging in active listening.

Originality/value

The current study contributes to the stream of research on SRP and the role of transformational leadership, workplace spirituality and resilience in service recovery in particular. Furthermore, by integrating the COR and SDT theories, the current study gives more real-world proof of the importance of leadership for organizations.
The effect of image enhancement on influencer's product recommendation effectiveness: the roles of perceived influencer authenticity and post type
Authors: Zhang Yajun , Shao Zhuoyan , Zhang Jin , Wu Banggang , Zhou Liying
Published: April 2023

Purpose

Facilitated by image retouch tools, social media influencers can digitally enhance their self-image in product recommendation posts. This paper proposes that image enhancement may serve as a cue for the audience to assess the authenticity of the influencer (“true to oneself”), which further affects the influencer's product recommendation effectiveness (i.e. attitudes toward the post and recommended product).

Design/methodology/approach

Experiment 1 examines the effect of image enhancement on consumers' perceived influencer authenticity and product recommendation effectiveness. Experiment 2 considers the moderating role of post type, examining the effects in informational versus storytelling posts.

Findings

Consumers perceived an influencer to be more authentic when the image is not enhanced; in turn, consumers reported more favorable attitudes toward the post and the recommended product upon reading the post. The effects are moderated by post type: the effect of image enhancement (through perceived influencer authenticity) exists in posts using an informational message format but is attenuated for those using a storytelling message format.

Originality/value

This research enriches the literature on authenticity cues by documenting a novel visual cue and contributes to influencer marketing by identifying a nuanced interactive effect between image enhancement and post type on recommendation effectiveness.
Reduction of the warping of a silicon wafer coated with two thin layers by minimal geometric modifications
Authors: El Fatmi Imad , Belhenini Soufyane , Tougui Abdellah
Published: April 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study is to make a contribution towards reducing the deflections of silicon wafers. The deformation of silicon wafers used in the manufacture of electronic micro-components is one of the most common problems encountered by industrialists during manufacturing. Stack warping is typically produced during the process of depositing thin layers on a substrate. This is due to the thermal-mechanical stresses caused by the difference between the thermal expansion coefficients of the materials. Reducing wafer deformation is essential to increase reliability and improve quality. In this paper, the authors propose an approach based on minimal geometrical modifications to reduce the deformation of a silicon wafer coated with two thin layers. Numerical finite element models have been developed to evaluate the impact of geometrical modifications on warping amplitude. Finite element models have been validated compared with experimental models. The results obtained are encouraging and clearly show a considerable reduction in wafer deformation.

Design/methodology/approach

Reducing wafer deformation is essential to increase reliability and improve quality. In this paper, the authors propose an approach based on minimal geometrical modifications to reduce the deformation of a silicon wafer coated with two thin layers. Numerical finite element models have been developed to evaluate the impact of geometrical modifications on warping amplitude. Finite element models have been validated compared with experimental models.

Findings

The results obtained are encouraging and clearly show a considerable reduction in wafer deformation.

Originality/value

This paper describes the influence of geometric modification on wafer deformation. The work show also the cruciality of stress reduction in the purpose to obtain less wafer deformation.
The effectiveness and safety of dupilumab in the management of refractory prurigo nodularis in 45 Chinese patients: A real‐life observational study
Authors: Fang Hao‐Yue , Lian Cui‐Hong
Published: April 2023

Prurigo nodularis (PN) is a chronic, pruritic inflammatory skin disease characterized by severe skin itching and hyperkeratotic nodules. The existing treatment options for PN are limited by severe adverse effects. Dupilumab is an approved biological agent for treating atopic dermatitis and other type 2 inflammatory diseases in adults, showing good efficacy and safety in clinical trials. Recently, dupilumab has shown remarkable effects in patients with PN, but the data on Chinese patients are limited. This study aimed to evaluate the safety and efficacy of dupilumab to treat atopic and nonatopic PN in 45 Chinese patients. To our knowledge, this is the largest cohort to date to evaluate the safety and efficacy of dupilumab to treat atopic and nonatopic PN. To achieve this, 45 patients with PN from the department of dermatology of several Grade A hospitals in Shenzhen, China, were treated with off‐label prescription dupilumab. We followed‐up the patients on weeks 8 and 16, and the pruritus symptoms, changes in lesion color and area, and the quality of sleep and life were evaluated before and after treatment using the Pruritus Peak Numeric Rating Scale (PP‐NRS, 0–10), the Dermatology Life Quality Index/Children's Dermatology Life Quality Index (DLQI/CDLQI, 0–30), and the Investigator's Global Assessment Scales for Stage and Activity (IGA/IGAa, 0–4) at weeks 2, 4, 8, 12, and 16. Total serum immunoglobin E and eosinophilic granulocyte levels were the main laboratory indices for patient evaluation. During treatment, the skin lesions and itching symptoms of these 45 patients were relieved remarkably within 2 weeks. All the PP‐NRS, DLQI/CDLQI, and IGA/IGAa scores significantly improved from the baseline to 16‐week dupilumab treatment (P < 0.001 for all scores) and no adverse events were reported.
Access to public capital markets and bank lending
Authors: Chu Yongqiang , Zhao Daxuan
Published: April 2023

We examine how the cost of issuing equity affects bank lending. Using the SEC rule change that allowed exchange‐listed firms with public float less than $75 million to raise equity via shelf registrations as a quasi‐natural experiment, we show that the affected banks increase mortgage lending relative to control banks. Furthermore, the affected banks reduce demand for precautionary capital and become less likely to sell mortgages to third parties.
Evaluating expertise in forensic anthropology
Authors: Passalacqua Nicholas V. , Langley Natalie R. , Pilloud Marin A. , Tersigni‐Tarrant MariaTeresa A.
Published: April 2023

The medicolegal system relies on the ability of experts and non‐experts alike to make judgments about expertise and use those judgments to reach consequential decisions. Given the lack of standard criteria, mandatory certification, or licensure for establishing expertise required to practice forensic anthropology and testify as an expert witness, we sought to understand how individuals assess and identify expertise in forensic anthropology by using a social science tool called the Imitation Game. This tool assesses immersion in a specific area of study via discourse, with the premise that some individuals lacking expertise themselves imitate or attempt to pass as experts. For this project we recruited volunteers with varying expertise in forensic anthropology to participate in interviews which asked questions about the practice and structure of the discipline. Those interviews were transcribed, anonymized, and evaluated by other recruited individuals with varying expertise in forensic anthropology. Results found that judges who were experts in forensic anthropology performed better than non‐expert judges in determining who was not an expert in forensic anthropology based on their anonymized responses; however, nearly half of the non‐experts were still able to pass as experts in forensic anthropology. The difficulties in assessing expertise based on discourse interactions demonstrates the value and need for well‐defined credentials and mandatory certification to practice forensic anthropology. This study demonstrates that accurately identifying expertise in forensic anthropology may be challenging for both experts and non‐experts, especially when relying solely on interactional expertise rather than formal assessments of competency which directly elucidate contributory expertise.
Whole‐exome sequencing in primary pulmonary synovial sarcoma misdiagnosed as mesothelioma: A case report and literature review
Authors: Wu Di , Zhang Hongbing , Li Xin , Liu Jinghao , Liu Minghui , Liu Hongyu , Dong Ming , Chen Jun
Published: April 2023

Synovial sarcoma is a highly malignant tumor that accounts for 10% of all soft tissue sarcomas. Primary pulmonary synovial sarcoma (PPSS) is extremely rare, and its prognosis is poor. A diagnosis is usually established after other primary lung malignancies or metastatic extrathoracic sarcomas have been excluded. Therefore, it is often misdiagnosed. In this study, we report the case of a 38‐year‐old woman who was misdiagnosed as having pleural mesothelioma and finally endured surgery to remove the tumor. The tumor showed SYT‐SSX fusion transcripts and was diagnosed as PPSS after combining histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses. Finally, we determined some biomarkers through whole‐exome sequencing (WES) to improve the diagnosis and treatment strategies.
Chlorophyll a fluorescence during flag leaf senescence of field‐grown winter wheat plants under drought conditions
Authors: Španić Valentina , Šunić Katarina , Duvnjak Jurica , Hu Yin‐Gang , Katanić Zorana
Published: April 2023

Improving wheat grain yield plays a significant role in ensuring global food security. Wheat production could be increased by the genetic improvement of wheat genotypes where delayed senescence with enhanced post‐anthesis capacity and staygreen traits could have an important role. In this study, chlorophyll a fluorescence (ChlF) rise kinetics from the early until late senescence of flag leaves, grain yield and other agro‐morphological characteristics were compared for three winter wheat advanced lines (Osk.4.312/10‐18, Osk.4.330/6‐18 and Osk.4.354/12‐18) under natural drought conditions. The differences between lines were observed when considering the heading date which was 1 and 4 days earlier for the line Osk.4.354/12‐18, than lines Osk.4.312/10‐18 and Osk.4.330/6‐18, respectively. Furthermore, line Osk.4.354/12‐18 had the highest test weight (kg hl−1), while line Osk.4.330/6‐18 showed a tendency of decreased grain yield, compared to the other two lines. Analysis of ChlF transients and several JIP‐test parameters indicated that all three lines had a generally similar course of changes in the photosynthetic performance of flag leaves during senescence under drought conditions. However, at the point when a decrease in photosynthetic performance was initiated, it was slightly less intensive in line Osk.4.354/12‐18 accompanied by longer preservation of functionality and connectivity of PSII units, than in the other two lines, which contributed to its better agronomical performance. These results indicated that even delicate variations in the functioning of the photosynthetic apparatus of the flag leaf during grain filling were agronomically important, especially when plants were exposed to drought stress, and could be used to differentiate otherwise similar wheat genotypes. Even small genotype‐specific differences in the photosynthetic performance of senescing flag leaves, along with earlier heading dates, could assist in the selection of genotypes with a better ability to cope with unfavourable environmental conditions.
Effect of microhabitat characteristics for predicting habitat suitability for a stalking large carnivore—the Eurasian lynx in middle Europe
Authors: Schmidt K. , Górny M. , Jędrzejewski W.
Published: April 2023

Large European carnivores are generally considered forest animals. However, there are a number of interacting factors that may have different impact on the availability and suitability of habitat for individual species. Felids, because of their stalking hunting mode, are habitat specialists requiring a heterogeneous environment, making them specifically vulnerable to habitat disturbance. The Eurasian lynx (Lynx lynx), despite protection in many European countries, has a surprisingly limited range. To explain environmental factors that affect its distribution, we undertook habitat selection and habitat suitability analyses at the macrohabitat and microhabitat scales, based on lynx occurrence and environmental data in Poland. Since the species occurs in two populations, one of which inhabits lowland and the other mountainous area, we modelled habitat suitability separately in both areas and then extrapolated it for the whole country scale. The lynx selected forests with medium undergrowth density in the lowlands and highly rugged terrain in the mountain areas—a proxy of stalking cover. Habitat suitability modelling performed at the macrohabitat scale identified around 110 000 km2 of habitat available from which 55 700 km2 was classified as high quality including large tracts of forests in western Poland that are beyond the natural range of the lynx. However, the microhabitat model built by including stalking cover variables, decreased high‐quality habitats to only 33% of the area designated at the macrohabitat scale. This model is largely consistent with the current distribution of lynx in Poland. This suggests that the simplified internal structure of forests (lacking understory cover) may act as a hindrance to increasing the distribution of lynx populations and helps to explain its limited range in the Central European lowlands. This research suggests that the microhabitat structure may play the crucial role in the effective conservation of the Eurasian lynx.
Germinação, superação da dormência de sementes e dispersão endozoocórica por bovinos de espécies nativas de pastagens naturais
Authors: de Azevedo Eduardo Bohrer , Pagel Reimar , Maggio Lilian Pedroso , Chiapinotto Diego Martins , Conterato Ionara Fátima , Schneider Angelo Alberto , Schaedler Carlos Eduardo , de David Diego Bitencourt
Published: April 2023

As pastagens naturais, um dos principais ecossistemas do mundo, estão ameaçadas e as espécies nativas são desejáveis quando se trata de restauração. Os principais processos para o sucesso da restauração das pastagens são o estabelecimento das plantas e a adição de sementes no solo. Assim, isso requer a superação das barreiras que impedem a germinação e estratégias de dispersão de sementes. Este trabalho teve como objetivo avaliar o potencial germinativo, tratamentos para superar a dormência de sementes e a dispersão por endozoocoria de espécies nativas forrageiras por bovinos. Sementes de 21 espécies nativas das quatro famílias botânicas mais comuns (Poaceae, Asteraceae, Fabaceae e Cyperaceae) foram coletadas em uma área de pastagem natural (Bioma Pampa) e utilizadas nos experimentos. Experimento I: foi realizada a germinação em condições controladas de todas as espécies e comparada com a da forragem comercial (Paspalum notatum cv. “Pensacola”). Experimento II: foram testados três tratamentos para superação da dormência das sementes (escarificação mecânica e química e priming) em seis espécies. Experimento III: foi avaliada a recuperação, viabilidade e germinação das sementes das espécies nativas Paspalum notatum Flüggé e Desmodium incanum DC em fezes de gado. Os resultados mostram que Paspalum umbrosum Trin. e Saccharum angustifolium Nees apresentam alto potencial germinativo quando comparadas à forragem comercial. Os tratamentos para superar a dormência das sementes aumentaram a germinação de D. incanum, Paspalum plicatulum Michx. e Paspalum dilatatum Poir. A recuperação total de sementes de 15% (P. notatum) e 26% (D. incanum), sem afetar a viabilidade das sementes, mostra que os bovinos são capazes de suprir o banco de sementes do solo com espécies nativas. O potencial germinativo, tratamentos para superar a dormência de sementes e dispersão endozoocórica de espécies nativas forrageiras podem ser explorados na restauração de pastagens naturais.
The histologic comparison of submandibular gland between yak and yellow cattle
Authors: Yang Dapeng , Mao Aipeng , Yuan Ligang , He Yuqin , Chen Shaoyu , Zhang Yong
Published: April 2023

The purpose of this study was to compare between the histochemical characteristics and the expression of epidermal growth factor (EGF) and it's receptor (EGFR) in the submandibular gland (SMG) of adult yaks and yellow cattle. The SMG tissues of yaks and yellow cattles were collected for histochemical, immunohistochemical (IHC), immunofluorescence (F‐IHC)，real‐time quantitative polymerasechain reaction (RT‐qPCR) and Western blotting methods. The results showed that the striated ducts of SMG were highly developed and connected to the intercalated ducts, which were shorter and directly connected to the acini. Compared with yellow cattle, yak SMG contains more mucous acini. Immunofluorescence showed significant expression of EGF and its receptor in both striated and intercalated ducts of these two species of cattle. Statistical analysis divulged that the distribution density of EGF and EGFR in the SMG of the yak was both significantly higher than that in yellow cattle (p < 0.05). Furthermore, the mRNA expression of EGF and EGFR in yak SMG was also higher than that in yellow cattle. The above results indicated that the intercalated ducts and striated ducts are the main expression sites of EGF and EGFR, the acidic mucin and EGF secreted from SMG of yak were more than that from yellow cattle. The results of this study provide powerful data for the study of physiological functions of submaxillary gland in ruminants and also provide important clues for the study of adaptive physiological mechanisms in plateau organisms.
Perceptions of Australians with diabetes‐related foot disease on requirements for effective secondary prevention
Authors: Drovandi Aaron , Crowley Benjamin , Alahakoon Chanika , Seng Leonard , Fernando Malindu E. , Ross Diane , Evans Rebecca , Golledge Jonathan
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Secondary prevention is essential in reducing recurrence of diabetes‐related foot disease (DFD) but is frequently poorly implemented in clinical practice.

Objective

To explore the perceptions of people with diabetes‐related foot disease (DFD) on their self‐perceived knowledge in managing DFD, facilitators and barriers influencing their DFD care, and ideas and preferences for a secondary prevention program.

Design

Sixteen people with a history of DFD from Queensland and Victoria, Australia, underwent semi‐structured interviews. Interviews were audio‐recorded over telephone and transcribed and analysed following a thematic framework. Participants were asked about their experiences and perceptions relating to DFD and factors influencing the care they receive for DFD relevant to the development of a secondary prevention program for DFD.

Findings and discussion

Participants had high self‐perceived knowledge in managing DFD, especially in implementing healthy lifestyle changes and conducting daily foot checks and foot care, though most received support from family members acting as carers. However, issues with access and adherence to offloading footwear, and a lack of clear education received on footwear and other aspects of DFD care were perceived as major barriers. Improved patient education, provided in a consistent manner by proactive clinicians was perceived as an essential part of secondary prevention. Telehealth was perceived positively through facilitating faster care and considered a good adjunct to standard care. Health and technological literacy were considered potentially major barriers to the effectiveness of remote care.

Conclusion

People with DFD require improved access to offloading footwear and education about secondary prevention, which could be provided by telehealth with adequate support.
Lymph nodal recurrence in levels IV and V in oral squamous cell carcinoma after neck dissection
Authors: Obermeier Katharina Theresa , Liokatis Paris , Haidari Selgai , Kakoschke Tamara Katharina , Kraus Moritz , Smolka Wenko
Published: April 2023

Background

The aim of the study was to determine the risk of lymph node recurrence in levels IV and V after tumour resection and neck dissection of level I–III and level I–V.

Methods

Data from 228 patients suffering from OSCC were analysed retrospectively. Patients with level I–III neck dissection were compared to those with level I–V neck dissection in terms of number and location of nodal recurrence.

The incidence of level IV–V recurrence in patients who had received level I–III neck dissection was compared with that of patients who had received level I–V neck dissection. The incidence of level IV–V recurrence was also compared between patients with pN0 and pN+ necks.

Results

Overall, 19 patients developed metastases. Only in two cases appeared nodal recurrence in levels IV or V. There was no statistically significant difference between both groups.

Conclusions

Neck dissection of levels I–III seems to be sufficient treatment in cases of unsuspicious lymph nodes in levels IV and V, even in cases of positive nodes in levels I–III if adjuvant radiation therapy is applied. However, 5‐year‐disease free survival rate is lower in patients with nodal metastases in levels IV and V than in patients with metastases located in levels I–III.
A contemporary evaluation of surgical aortic valve replacement outcomes and temporal trends
Authors: Chang Shantel , Yong Matthew S. , Stroebel Andrie , Hughes Ian , Scuffham Paul , He Cheng
Published: April 2023

Background

Given the ageing population and uptake of transcatheter approaches for treating aortic stenosis (AS), a renewed evaluation of outcomes after surgical aortic valve replacement (SAVR) is warranted. With guidelines recommending age‐based indications for surgical and transcatheter approaches, this study critically evaluates outcomes in age‐based subgroups, with the aim to refine management of AS in the elderly, where there is often no clear consensus.

Methods

Six hundred and thirteen consecutive patients who underwent SAVR in an Australian tertiary cardiac centre between 1 June 2014 and 13 January 2022 were retrospectively analysed. Of these, 70.31% were <75 years (Group 1) and 29.69% were ≥75 years (Group 2). Groups were compared with respect to early and long‐term outcomes. Logistic regression, Kaplan–Meier survival estimates and Cox proportional hazards regression were performed for all patients and an AS‐specific sub‐group.

Results

Patients aged ≥75 years were more likely to be female and have hypercholesterolemia, hypertension, and pre‐existing arrhythmia (P < 0.001). Group 1 experienced a higher incidence of renal failure compared with Group 2, in the overall cohort and AS‐specific subgroup (P = 0.02). The incidence of stroke was similar between groups, in the overall cohort (P = 0.22) and the AS‐specific subgroup (P = 0.32). Age ≥ 75 was not found to be an independent predictor of 30‐day, 1‐year or 5‐year mortality. Temporal trends revealed low consistently low complication rates.

Conclusions

Elderly patients should not be denied surgery based on age, despite guideline‐driven age‐based recommendations.
Uric acid transport, transporters, and their pharmacological targeting
Authors: Adomako Emmanuel A. , Moe Orson W.
Published: April 2023

Knowledge of uric acid (UA) crystallopathies preceded the identification of this compound. How the body handles and transports UA proved even more elusive. Over several decades, advances in molecular phenotyping have illuminated this hitherto nebulous field. Closely parallel to the characterization of the transport mechanisms of UA in the body was the development of drugs designed to manipulate UA levels. In this review, we highlight the study of UA transport and transporters. This is an evolving field, and we expect our knowledge of the transport mechanisms to both widen and deepen further. We focus on the best‐characterized transporters rather than an exhaustive catalog of all suspected transporters. We review the established and novel compounds that modulate UA transport.
Editorial: concurrence of coeliac disease with inflammatory bowel disease – is big data the final arbiter? Authors' reply
Authors: Sonnenberg Amnon , Genta Robert M.
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Sonnenberg and Genta's papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17408 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17425
Letter: fulminant onset complicated inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) – a unique subtype? Authors' reply
Authors: Jayasooriya Nishani , Saxena Sonia , Pollok Richard C.
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Jayasooriya et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17370 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17418
Letter: Potassium‐competitive acid blockers may increase the risk of gastric cancer after Helicobacter pylori eradication—a retrospective multicentre‐cohort analysis. Authors' reply
Authors: Piovani Daniele , Tsantes Andreas G. , Schünemann Holger J. , Bonovas Stefanos
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Piovani et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17360 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17461.
Letter: diagnostic delay in inflammatory bowel disease
Authors: Tassone Daniel , Gilmore Robert , Lee Tanya , Ding Nik S.
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Jayasooriya et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17370 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17493.
Editorial: NAFLD, chronic kidney disease, and pleiotropy—Why is PNPLA3 omnipresent?
Authors: Pirola Carlos J. , Sookoian Silvia
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Mantovani et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17477.
Letter: Does irritable bowel syndrome have a greater impact in Western, compared with Asian, patients? Authors' reply
Authors: Goodoory Vivek C. , Guthrie Elspeth A. , Ng Cho Ee , Black Christopher J. , Ford Alexander C.
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Goodoory et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17356 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17485.
Letter: 5‐aminosalicylate maintenance treatment in mild Crohn's disease—authors' reply
Authors: Atia Ohad , Goren Idan , Yanai Henit
Published: April 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Atia et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17419 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17489.