bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Obstetric analgesia and anaesthesia in SARS‐CoV‐2‐positive parturients across 10 maternity units in the north‐west of England: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Bhatia K. ,   Group of Obstetric Anaesthetists of Lancashire, Greater Manchester and Mersey Study Collaborators
Published: February 2022

Since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic, few studies have reported anaesthetic outcomes in parturients with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. We reviewed the labour analgesic and anaesthetic interventions utilised in symptomatic and asymptomatic parturients who had a confirmed positive test for SARS‐CoV‐2 across 10 hospitals in the north‐west of England between 1 April 2020 and 31 May 2021. Primary outcomes analysed included the analgesic/anaesthetic technique utilised for labour and caesarean birth. Secondary outcomes included a comparison of maternal characteristics, caesarean birth rate, maternal critical care admission rate along with adverse composite neonatal outcomes. A positive SARS‐CoV‐2 test was recorded in 836 parturients with 263 (31.4%) reported to have symptoms of COVID‐19. Neuraxial labour analgesia was utilised in 104 (20.4%) of the 509 parturients who went on to have a vaginal birth. No differences in epidural analgesia rates were observed between symptomatic and asymptomatic parturients (OR 1.03, 95%CI 0.64–1.67; p = 0.90). The neuraxial anaesthesia rate in 310 parturients who underwent caesarean delivery was 94.2% (95%CI 90.6–96.0%). The rates of general anaesthesia were similar in symptomatic and asymptomatic parturients (6% vs. 5.7%; p = 0.52). Symptomatic parturients were more likely to be multiparous (OR 1.64, 95%CI 1.19–2.22; p = 0.002); of Asian ethnicity (OR 1.54, 1.04–2.28; p = 0.03); to deliver prematurely (OR 2.16, 95%CI 1.47–3.19; p = 0.001); have a higher caesarean birth rate (44.5% vs. 33.7%; OR 1.57, 95%CI 1.16–2.12; p = 0.008); and a higher critical care utilisation rate both pre‐ (8% vs. 0%, p = 0.001) and post‐delivery (11% vs. 3.5%; OR 3.43, 95%CI 1.83–6.52; p = 0.001). Eight neonates tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 while no differences in adverse composite neonatal outcomes were observed between those born to symptomatic and asymptomatic mothers (25.8% vs. 23.8%; OR 1.11, 95%CI 0.78–1.57; p = 0.55). In women with COVID‐19, non‐neuraxial analgesic regimens were commonly utilised for labour while neuraxial anaesthesia was employed for the majority of caesarean births. Symptomatic women with COVID‐19 are at increased risk of significant maternal morbidity including preterm birth, caesarean birth and peripartum critical care admission.
Anti‐drug antibodies to brolucizumab and ranibizumab in serum and vitreous of patients with ocular disease
Authors: Busch Martin , Pfeil Johanna M. , Dähmcke Merlin , Brauckmann Tara , Großjohann Rico , Chisci Viola , Hunfeld Elisabeth , Eilts Sonja , Omran Wael , Morawiec‐Kisiel Ewa , Schulz Daniel , Paul Sebastian , Tayar Allam , Bründer Marie‐Christine , Grundel Bastian , Küstner Martin , Stahl Andreas
Published: February 2022

Purpose

Postapproval reports of intraocular inflammation (IOI) and occlusive retinal vasculitis following intravitreal brolucizumab are accumulating. A role of anti‐drug antibodies (ADAs) to brolucizumab is under current scientific discussion. The purpose of the present study was to measure brolucizumab ADAs in a cross‐sectional ophthalmic patient population and to compare the occurrence of brolucizumab ADAs with that of ranibizumab ADAs.

Methods

One hundred and ninety‐two serum samples and 54 vitreous samples were collected from patients with a range of eye diseases including neovascular age‐related macular degeneration (AMD), diabetic retinopathy, retinal vein occlusion, cataract, glaucoma, dry eye disease, macular hole, epiretinal membranes and intraocular lens (IOL) dislocation. Serum and vitreous samples were analysed for immune globuline (Ig) G ADAs to brolucizumab and ranibizumab using indirect enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Optical Density (OD) was read at 450 nm (wavelength correction at 550 nm) for ADA level measurements.

Results

Presence of brolucizumab ADAs was observed in patients with and without prior brolucizumab exposure. Both the frequency of notable ADA signals (OD > 0.1) and the mean ADA signal in serum samples were higher for brolucizumab than for ranibizumab. Two patients who experienced severe IOI and occlusive retinal vasculitis following intravitreal brolucizumab had high brolucizumab ADA serum levels. In one of these two patients, high brolucizumab ADA levels were also found in vitreous. Another patient developed moderate IOI without retinal vasculitis in the presence of low brolucizumab ADA serum levels. Overall, notable brolucizumab ADA levels were less frequent in vitreous than in the corresponding serum samples but with a tendency for higher prevalence in vitreous from patients with diabetic retinopathy.

Conclusion

Brolucizumab ADAs occur with significant prevalence in a typical ophthalmic patient population and may represent a risk factor for IOI and occlusive retinal vasculitis following brolucizumab.
Catalyzing purposeful transformation: The emergence of transformation catalysts
Authors: Waddock Sandra
Published: February 2022

This op ed argues that the pandemic has highlighted the emergence of a new type of entity called a transformation catalyst (TC). TCs help collections of initiatives with similar agendas see and understand their system, connect to like‐minded others to develop coherence for their efforts, and thereby amplify their impact by working in coherence and sometimes coordinated—yet independent—ways. Such efforts around issues like reframing the purpose of business or efforts to transform business sectors are enhanced and their effectiveness catalyzed by TCs. TCs work by helping initiatives see and understand their system, connect with like‐minded others, and cohere their efforts. These activities can amplify the impacts of initiatives to bring needed system transformation into being.
Wellbeing‐oriented organizations: Connecting human flourishing with ecological regeneration
Authors: Shrivastava Paul , Zsolnai Laszlo
Published: February 2022

Wellbeing is an organizing principle that ensures simultaneous flourishing of people and nature. It binds together an ethic of nature and ethics of people/community into a practical framework for creating integrated socio‐ecological wellbeing. This paper discusses the theoretical and practical implications of this position and presents illustrative cases of innovative wellbeing‐oriented organizations, both business and social. The paper explains why we need wellbeing organizations anchored in the wellbeing economy movement. A concept of resilient wellbeing organization is presented and illustrated with working models of existing organizations attempting to live up to the wellbeing values and practices. The paper ends with some thought on regulatory enabling of wellbeing organizations and makes practical implications for policy makers and managers, and suggestions for further research.
Humoral response to mRNA‐based COVID‐19 vaccine in patients with myeloid malignancies
Authors: Mori Akio , Onozawa Masahiro , Tsukamoto Shihori , Ishio Takashi , Yokoyama Emi , Izumiyama Koh , Saito Makoto , Muraki Haruna , Morioka Masanobu , Teshima Takanori , Kondo Takeshi
Published: February 2022

Data on the response to the COVID‐19 vaccine in patients with myeloid malignancy, who are at severe risk in case of infection, have not emerged. In a study of 69 patients with myeloid malignancies, including 46 patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) and 23 patients with myelodysplastic syndrome (MDS), anti‐spike SARS‐CoV‐2 antibody titres were measured 3 months after the second mRNA‐based vaccination. Seroconversion rates for AML and MDS were 94.7% and 100% respectively, with no significant difference from healthy controls (HCs). Patients with MDS showed a significantly lower antibody titre than that in HCs or AML patients. In AML patients, the antibody titres were comparable to those in HCs when treatment was completed, but lower in patients under maintenance therapy. The response to COVID‐19 vaccine appears to be related to disease and treatment status. Patients with myeloid malignancies may be more responsive to vaccines than patients with lymphoid malignancies.
Coarse woody debris density and carbon concentration by decay classes in mixed montane wet tropical forests
Authors: Shorohova Ekaterina , Kapitsa Ekaterina , Kuznetsov Andrey , Kuznetsova Svetlana , Lopes de Gerenyu Valentin , Kaganov Vladimir , Kurganova Irina
Published: February 2022

The role of coarse woody debris (CWD) in the global carbon (C) cycle is growing under increasing tree mortality driven by climate variability and disturbances. Quantifying C in CWD critically depends on accurate estimates of CWD density and C concentration in CWD. This study considered the main decomposition pathways (the proportions of CWD decomposed by fungi vs. invertebrates; fungal decay types) and the relationships between decay class, wood density, moisture, and C content of CWD in old‐growth mixed monsoon montane tropical forests in Vietnam based on the inventory of 359 CWD pieces. The bulk density of wood of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th decay classes averaged 0.56, 0.49, 0.37, 0.28, and 0.15 g cm−3, respectively. The density reduction across decay classes did not significantly differ for snags, stumps, branches, leaning, and lying logs. Wood density was negatively related to wood moisture. The wood mass loss averaged 0%, 20%, 37%, 54%, and 74% in the CWD of the 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and 5th decay classes, respectively. Signs of invertebrate activity were recorded on 3% of CWD pieces. Among CWD samples with identifiable decay type, 88% were decomposed by white‐rot, 8% were decomposed as brown‐rot, and 4% of pieces contained both white‐ and brown‐rot patches. The mean C concentration in wood was 46.5%. It did not change with decay class. Our research provides an empirical basis for future inventories of CWD carbon stocks in Asian montane tropical mixed forests.
Five‐year randomized controlled clinical study comparing cemented and screw‐retained zirconia‐based implant‐supported single crowns
Authors: Kraus Riccardo D. , Espuelas Catharina , Hämmerle Christoph H. F. , Jung Ronald E. , Sailer Irena , Thoma Daniel S.
Published: February 2022

Objectives

To compare screw‐retained and cemented all‐ceramic implant‐supported single crowns regarding biological and technical outcomes over a 5‐year observation period.

Materials and methods

In 44 patients, 44 two‐piece dental implants were placed in single‐tooth gaps in the esthetic zone. Patients randomly received a screw‐retained (SR) or cemented (CR) all‐ceramic single crown and were then re‐examined annually up to 5 years. Outcome measures included: clinical, biological, technical, and radiographic parameters. Data were statistically analyzed with Wilcoxon–Mann–Whitney, Wilcoxon, and Fisher's exact tests.

Results

During the observation period, three patients (6.8%) were loss to follow‐up. Eight restorations (18.2%, CI (8.2%, 32.7%)) were lost due to technical (6 patients, 13.6% (CI (5.2%, 27.4%)), 2 CR and 4 SR group, intergroup p = .673; implants still present) or biological complications (2 patients, 4.5% (CI (0.6%, 16.5%)), only CR group, intergroup p = .201, both implants lost). This resulted in a survival rate of 81.2% (CI (65.9%, 90.1%)) on the restorative level (18 SR; 15 CR, 3 lost to follow‐up). At the 5‐year follow‐up, the median marginal bone levels were located slightly apical relative to the implant shoulder with 0.4 mm (0.5; 0.3) (SR) and 0.4 mm (0.8; 0.3) (CR) (intergroup p = .582). Cemented restorations demonstrated a significantly higher biological complication rate (36.8%, SR: 0.0%; intergroup p = .0022), as well as a significantly higher overall complication rate (68.4%, SR: 22.7%, intergroup p = .0049). All other outcomes did not differ significantly between the two groups (p > .05).

Conclusions

All‐ceramic single‐tooth restorations on two‐piece dental implants resulted in a relatively low survival rate. Cemented restorations were associated with a higher biological and overall complication rate than screw‐retained restorations.
Perioperative stroke: A perspective on challenges and opportunities for experimental treatment and diagnostic strategies
Authors: Jin Xia , Li Peiying , Michalski Dominik , Li Shen , Zhang Yueman , Jolkkonen Jukka , Cui Lili , Didwischus Nadine , Xuan Wei , Boltze Johannes
Published: February 2022

Perioperative stroke is an ischemic or hemorrhagic cerebral event during or up to 30 days after surgery. It is a feared condition due to a relatively high incidence, difficulties in timely detection, and unfavorable outcome compared to spontaneously occurring stroke. Recent preclinical data suggest that specific pathophysiological mechanisms such as aggravated neuroinflammation contribute to the detrimental impact of perioperative stroke. Conventional treatment options are limited in the perioperative setting due to difficult diagnosis and medications affecting coagulation in may cases. On the contrary, the chance to anticipate cerebrovascular events at the time of surgery may pave the way for prevention strategies. This review provides an overview on perioperative stroke incidence, related problems, and underlying pathophysiological mechanisms. Based on this analysis, we assess experimental stroke treatments including neuroprotective approaches, cell therapies, and conditioning medicine strategies regarding their potential use in perioperative stroke. Interestingly, the specific aspects of perioperative stroke might enable a more effective application of experimental treatment strategies such as classical neuroprotection whereas others including cell therapies may be of limited use. We also discuss experimental diagnostic options for perioperative stroke augmenting classical clinical and imaging stroke diagnosis. While some experimental stroke treatments may have specific advantages in perioperative stroke, the paucity of established guidelines or multicenter clinical research initiatives currently limits their thorough investigation.
Restrictive spirometry versus restrictive lung function using the GLI reference values
Authors: Myrberg Tomi , Lindberg Anne , Eriksson Berne , Hedman Linnea , Stridsman Caroline , Lundbäck Bo , Rönmark Eva , Backman Helena
Published: February 2022

Background

Restrictive lung function may indicate various underlying diseases. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of different restrictive spirometry patterns (RSPs) to identify restrictive lung function (total lung capacity [TLC] < lower limit of normal [LLN]) according to reference values by the Global Lung Function Initiative (GLI) in a wide age‐ranged, general population sample.

Methods

A general population sample (n = 607, age 23–72 years, smokers 18.8%) with proper dynamic spirometry and TLC measurements, was included. Accuracy of two main categories of RSP to identify TLC < LLN were evaluated: traditional RSPs (definition 1: FVC < 80% of predicted and FEV1/FVC ≥ 0.7 and definition 2: FVC < LLN and FEV1/FVC ≥ LLN) and RSPs defined by Youden's method (definition 3: FVC < 85.5% of predicted and FEV1/FVC ≥ LLN and definition 4: FVC Z‐score < −1.0 and FEV1/FVC ≥ LLN).

Results

The prevalence of restrictive lung function (TLC < LLN) was 5.3%. The most accurate cut‐offs for FVC to identify TLC < LLN were 85.5% for FVC% of predicted, and −1.0 for FVC Z‐score. The traditional RSP definitions 1 and 2 had higher specificity (95.0% and 96.9%) but substantially lower sensitivity compared to RSP definitions 3 and 4.

Conclusion

Based on the GLI reference values, the RSP definition FVC < LLN and FEV1/FVC ≥ LLN yielded the highest specificity and may appropriately be used to rule out restrictive lung function. The RSP definition with the most favourable trade‐off between sensitivity and specificity, FVC < 85.5% of predicted and FEV1/FVC ≥ LLN, may serve as an alternative with higher sensitivity for screening.
The management of diabetic ketoacidosis in adults—An updated guideline from the Joint British Diabetes Society for Inpatient Care
Authors: Dhatariya Ketan K. ,   The Joint British Diabetes Societies for Inpatient Care
Published: February 2022

This article summarises the Joint British Diabetes Societies for Inpatient Care guidelines on the management of ketoacidosis; available athttps://abcd.care/resource/management‐diabetic‐ketoacidosis‐dka‐adults. The document explicitly states that when a person aged 16–18 is under the care of the paediatric team, then the paediatric guideline should be used, and if they are cared for by an adult team, then this guideline should be used. The guideline takes into account new evidence on the use of the previous version of this document, particularly the high prevalence of hypoglycaemia and hypokalaemia, and recommends that when the glucose concentration drops below 14 mmol/L, that de‐escalating the insulin infusion rate from 0.1 to 0.05 units/kg/h should be considered. Furthermore, a section has been added to address the recognition that use of sodium glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors is associated with an increased risk of euglycaemic ketoacidosis. The management of ketoacidosis in people with end‐stage renal failure or on dialysis is also mentioned. Finally, the algorithms to illustrate the guideline have been updated.
Different levels of EGF, VEGF, IL‐6, MCP‐1, MCP‐3, IP‐10, Eotaxin and MIP‐1α in the adipose‐derived stem cell secretome in androgenetic alopecia
Authors: Andjelkov Katarina , Eremin Ilya I. , Korac Aleksandra
Published: February 2022

Hair folliculogenesis and hair growth mediated by the secretory properties of white adipocytes may pave the way for the adipose‐derived (AD) regenerative therapy for androgenetic alopecia (AGA). Quantitative and qualitative secretome profiling of AD stem cells (ADSCs) from different zones of hair growth in patients with AGA were analysed. 1‐mm punch samples of adipose tissue associated with hair follicles, of three scalp areas (balding, non‐balding and transition zones) and one periumbilical sample, were used for ADCS isolation. The ADCS secretome was analysed in conditioned media using a 41plex assay. Among the thirty‐five signalling proteins analysed, the levels of VEGF, EGF, IL‐6, Eotaxin, MCP‐3, IFNγ‐inducible protein‐10 and MIP‐1α were higher in the balding zone compared with the non‐balding and periumbilical zones. In contrast, MCP‐1 was the lowest in the balding zone in comparison with the other zones. The observed differences in the secretome suggest crosstalk between angiogenic and inflammatory processes underlying AGA aetiology and may prove relevant in both the diagnosis of AGA and the application of ADSC secretome for AGA treatment.
Phylogenetic signal and evolutionary relationships among traits of inland fishes along elevational and longitudinal gradients
Authors: Cano‐Barbacil Carlos , Radinger Johannes , Grenouillet Gaël , García‐Berthou Emili
Published: February 2022

Understanding the main drivers of species distributions is one of the main goals of ecology. However, the relationships between traits and elevational and longitudinal distributions in inland fishes, as well as their underlying evolutionary processes, have been less investigated. Thus, we aimed to quantify and assess the relationships among several types of traits resulting from species’ evolutionary histories by measuring their phylogenetic signal across inland fishes of the Iberian Peninsula. We also aimed to test for correlated evolution of these traits with elevation and stream size (i.e. stream order), to test whether a species’ suite of traits and their elevational and longitudinal niche tend to evolve together.

We compiled data on 23 fish biological and ecological traits for 30 inland fish species present in the Iberian Peninsula. We quantified their phylogenetic signal using four complementary indices (Pagel’sλ, Blomberg’sK, and Abouheif’sCmeanfor continuous and −D + 1 for binary traits). We used both phylogenetic and non‐phylogenetic methods to evaluate the relationship among traits and their relationship with elevation and stream order.

We found a significant phylogenetic signal for 65% of the studied traits. Phylogenetic signals were quite variable, but we did not detect clear differences between continuous and binary traits or among trait types (i.e. morphological, trophic, reproductive, and habitat use). Evolutionary models revealed that elevational and longitudinal distribution showed little evidence for directional trends of evolution. Hence, species elevational and longitudinal niches tend to resemble to those of the common ancestor.

Many fish traits were inter‐correlated as revealed by phylogenetic methods, indicating correlated evolution of pairs of traits. For example, reproductive traits such as maximum longevity, fecundity and age at maturity tended to evolve together with fish maximum length. Consequently, certain orders of fish showed shared suites of traits.

Comparative methods revealed a significant positive relationship of parental care with elevation and stream order. By contrast, non‐phylogenetic analyses and multivariate analyses indicated positive relationships between elevation and rheophily and lithophily, and a negative relationship between stream order and invertivory and rheophily.

Overall, our results point to a notable phylogenetic signal in many traits of inland fishes and a strong phylogenetic structure in their functional traits along their elevational and longitudinal gradients. Thereby, our results contribute to an improved understanding of species’ adaptations to environmental changes with important conceptual and practical implications for minimising further species losses.
Chamberlin without differentiation: Soft capacity constrained price competition with free entry
Authors: Cabon‐Dhersin Marie‐Laure , Drouhin Nicolas
Published: February 2022

We show that the long‐term properties of price and cost in Chamberlin's monopolistic competition model can be reproduced with a soft capacity constrained price competition oligopoly model for a homogeneous good with free entry.
Survey Weighting after Imperfect Linkage to an Administrative File
Authors: Chipperfield James
Published: February 2022

This paper proposes an instrumental variable regression estimator of population totals using a sample, a set of links between the sample units and records on an administrative file, and a set of calibration totals calculated from the administrative file. This paper proposes a survey‐weighted estimator of a population total that is valid when the survey non‐response mechanism is non‐ignorable and false negatives occur in the administrative‐survey linkage. False negatives lead to measurement error in the administrative variables that are available on the survey and will lead to biased estimates if not taken into account. We show the benefit of the proposed approach in a simulation and in a case study.
Occludin facilitates tumour angiogenesis in bladder cancer by regulating IL8/STAT3 through STAT4
Authors: Yang Fan , Liu Xue‐Qi , He Jian‐Zhong , Xian Shi‐Ping , Yang Peng‐Fei , Mai Zhi‐Ying , Li Miao , Liu Ye , Zhang Xing‐Ding
Published: February 2022

Bladder cancer (BLCA) is a common genitourinary cancer in patients, and tumour angiogenesis is indispensable for its occurrence and development. However, the indepth mechanism of tumour angiogenesis in BLCA remains elusive. According to recent studies, the tight junction protein family member occludin (OCLN) is expressed at high levels in BLCA tissues and correlates with a poor prognosis. Downregulation of OCLN inhibits tumour angiogenesis in BLCA cells and murine xenografts, whereas OCLN overexpression exerts the opposite effect. Mechanistically, the RT‐qPCR analysis and Western blotting results showed that OCLN increased interleukin‐8 (IL8) and p‐signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) levels to promote BLCA angiogenesis. RNA sequencing analysis and dual‐luciferase reporter assays indicated that OCLN regulated IL8 transcriptional activity via the transcription factor STAT4. In summary, our results provide new perspectives on OCLN, as this protein participates in the development of BLCA angiogenesis by activating the IL8/STAT3 pathway via STAT4 and may serve as a novel and unique therapeutic target.
No genomic repercussions of assortative pairing in a colour polymorphic lizard
Authors: Aguilar Prem , Andrade Pedro , Afonso Sandra , Carretero Miguel Á. , Pérez i de Lanuza Guillem , Pinho Catarina
Published: February 2022

Long‐term maintenance of colour polymorphisms often depends on the interplay of multiple selective forces. In the common wall lizard (Podarcis muralis), up to three pure and two mosaic ventral colour morphs co‐exist across most of its range. Available evidence suggests that colour morphs in this species are maintained through the interaction between sexual and environment‐dependent selection. In particular, colour‐assortative pairing has been recorded, suggesting some degree of assortative mating. Here, we combined reduced‐representation sequencing (ddRADseq) and fine‐scale distribution data to explore the effects of assortative pairing on the common wall lizard. Overall, our results do not support any population structure (FST = 0 and K = 1) nor a significant effect of colour morph or geographic location on genomic differentiation. Therefore, we argue that assortative pairing may not fully translate into assortative mating and genomic differentiation between colour morphs and discuss possible explanations. Nonetheless, we find potential support for an elevated population size and/or source‐sink dynamics and debate the potential contribution of other forms of selection to the maintenance of colour polymorphisms in lacertids.
Trophic niche of Australian cownose rays (Rhinoptera neglecta) and whitespotted eagle rays (Aetobatus ocellatus) along the east coast of Australia
Authors: Chan Alysha J. , Raoult Vincent , Jaine Fabrice R. A. , Peddemors Victor M. , Broadhurst Matt K. , Williamson Jane E.
Published: February 2022

Australian cownose rays (Rhinoptera neglecta) and whitespotted eagle rays (Aetobatus ocellatus) are large myliobatiform rays that co‐occur off temperate eastern Australia. Here, we performed stable‐isotope analyses (δ13C, δ15N and δ34S) on fin clips of both species to gain insights into their trophic interactions and isotopic niches, and assess the effect of preservation (ethanol‐stored versus frozen) on isotopic values of fin‐clip tissue of R. neglecta. Linear mixed models identified species as the main factor contributing to variation among δ15N and δ34S values, and disc width for δ13C. Bayesian ecological niche modelling indicated a 57.4% to 74.5% overlap of trophic niches, with the niche of R. neglecta being smaller and more constrained. Because values of δ13C were similar between species, variation in isotopic niches were due to differences in δ15N and δ34S values. Linear mixed models failed to detect differences in isotopic values of ethanol‐stored and frozen fin tissue of R. neglecta. This study provides the first examination of the trophic ecology of R. neglecta and the comparison of isotopic niche with A. ocellatus, which will facilitate future research into the trophic interactions of these species and aid better resource management.
Clear‐headed into old age: Resilience and resistance against brain aging—A PET imaging perspective
Authors: Hoenig Merle C. , Drzezga Alexander
Published: February 2022

With the advances in modern medicine and the adaptation towards healthier lifestyles, the average life expectancy has doubled since the 1930s, with individuals born in the millennium years now carrying an estimated life expectancy of around 100 years. And even though many individuals around the globe manage to age successfully, the prevalence of aging‐associated neurodegenerative diseases such as sporadic Alzheimer’s disease has never been as high as nowadays. The prevalence of Alzheimer’s disease is anticipated to triple by 2050, increasing the societal and economic burden tremendously. Despite all efforts, there is still no available treatment defeating the accelerated aging process as seen in this disease. Yet, given the advances in neuroimaging techniques that are discussed in the current Review article, such as in positron emission tomography (PET) or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), pivotal insights into the heterogenous effects of aging‐associated processes and the contribution of distinct lifestyle and risk factors already have and are still being gathered. In particular, the concepts of resilience (i.e. coping with brain pathology) and resistance (i.e. avoiding brain pathology) have more recently been discussed as they relate to mechanisms that are associated with the prolongation and/or even stop of the progressive brain aging process. Better understanding of the underlying mechanisms of resilience and resistance may one day, hopefully, support the identification of defeating mechanism against accelerating aging.

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A human blood–arachnoid barrier atlas of transporters, receptors, enzymes, and tight junction and marker proteins: Comparison with dog and pig in absolute abundance
Authors: Uchida Yasuo , Takeuchi Hina , Goto Ryohei , Braun Clemens , Fuchs Holger , Ishiguro Naoki , Takao Masaki , Tano Mitsutoshi , Terasaki Tetsuya
Published: February 2022

The purpose of this study was to elucidate the absolute abundance of transporters, enzymes, receptors, and tight junction and marker proteins at human blood–arachnoid barrier (BAB) and compare with those of dogs and pigs. Protein expression levels in plasma membrane fractions of brain leptomeninges were determined by quantitative targeted absolute proteomics. To realistically compare the absolute abundance of target molecules at the BAB among humans, dogs, and pigs, the unit was converted from fmol/μg‐protein to pmol/cm2‐leptomeninges. Of a total of 70 proteins, 52 were detected. OAT1, OAT3, GLUT1, 4F2hc, EAAT1, EAAT2, MCT8, SMVT, CTL2, GFAP, Claudin‐5, Na+/K+‐ATPase, COMT, GSTP1, and CES1 were abundantly expressed at the human BAB (>1 pmol/cm2). The protein expression levels were within a 3‐fold difference for 16 out of 33 proteins between humans and dogs and for 13 out of 28 proteins between humans and pigs. Both human–dog and human–pig differences in protein expression levels were within 3‐fold for OAT1, OAT3, 4F2hc, xCT, OCT2, MDR1, BCRP, PEPT2, SYP, and MCT1. In contrast, OCT3, MCT4, and OATP1A2 were detected in humans but not in dogs or pigs. MRP3 was detected in dogs and pigs but not in humans. The absolute level of GLUT1 in humans was nearly the same as that in dogs but was 6.14‐fold greater in pigs. No significant differences in the levels were observed between male and female dogs for nearly all molecules. These results should be helpful in understanding the physiological roles of BAB and cerebrospinal fluid pharmacokinetics in humans and their differences from dogs and pigs.

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Long read sequencing overcomes challenges in the diagnosis of SORD neuropathy
Authors: Grosz Bianca R. , Stevanovski Igor , Negri Sara , Ellis Melina , Barnes Stephanie , Reddel Stephen , Vucic Steve , Nicholson Garth A. , Cortese Andrea , Kumar Kishore R. , Deveson Ira W. , Kennerson Marina L.
Published: February 2022

Biallelic mutations in sorbitol dehydrogenase (SORD) have been recently identified as a common cause of recessive axonal Charcot‐Marie‐Tooth neuropathy (CMT2). We aimed to assess a novel long‐read sequencing approach to overcome current limitations in SORD neuropathy diagnostics due to the SORD2P pseudogene and the phasing of biallelic mutations in recessive disease. We conducted a screen of our Australian whole exome sequencing (WES) CMT cohort to identify individuals with homozygous or compound heterozygous SORD variants. Individuals detected with SORD mutations then underwent long‐read sequencing, clinical assessment, and serum sorbitol analysis. An individual was detected with compound heterozygous truncating mutations in SORD exon 7, NM_003104.5:c.625C>T (p.Arg209Ter) and NM_003104.5:c.757del (p.Ala253GlnfsTer27). Subsequent Oxford Nanopore Tech (ONT) long‐read sequencing was used to successfully differentiate SORD from the highly homologous non‐functional SORD2P pseudogene and confirmed that the mutations were biallelic through haplotype‐resolved analysis. The patient presented with axonal sensorimotor polyneuropathy (CMT2) and ulnar neuropathy without compression at the elbow. Burning neuropathic pain in the forearms and feet was also reported and was exacerbated by alcohol consumption and improved with alcohol cessation. UPLC‐tandem mass spectrometry confirmed that the patient had elevated serum sorbitol levels (12.0 mg/L) consistent with levels previously observed in patients with biallelic SORD mutations. This represents a novel clinical presentation and expands the phenotype associated with biallelic SORD mutations causing CMT2. Our study is the first report of long‐read sequencing for an individual with CMT and demonstrates the utility of this approach for clinical genomics.
Tyramide signal amplification coupled with multiple immunolabeling and RNAScopein situ hybridization in formaldehyde‐fixed paraffin‐embedded human fetal brain
Authors: Alzu'bi Ayman , Sankar Niveditha , Crosier Moira , Kerwin Janet , Clowry Gavin J.
Published: February 2022

Several strategies have been recently introduced to improve the practicality of multiple immunolabeling and RNA in situ hybridization protocols. Tyramide signal amplification (TSA) is a powerful method used to improve the detection sensitivity of immunohistochemistry. RNAScope is a novel commercially available in situ hybridization assay for the detection of RNA expression. In this work, we describe the use of TSA and RNAScope in situ hybridization as extremely sensitive and specific methods for the evaluation of protein and RNA expression in formaldehyde‐fixed paraffin‐embedded human fetal brain sections. These two techniques, when properly optimized, were highly compatible with routine formaldehyde‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue that preserves the best morphological characteristics of delicate fetal brain samples, enabling an unparalleled ability to simultaneously visualize the expression of multiple protein and mRNA of genes that are sparsely expressed in the human fetal telencephalon.
Argan oil as a pretreatment of human hair before exposure to oxidative damage: Attenuated total reflectance and protein loss studies
Authors: Sharifi Negin , Hamedeyazdan Sanaz , Shokri Javad , Monajjemzadeh Farnaz
Published: February 2022

Introduction

In recent years, argan oil has gained increasing interest in hair care products. In this study, attenuated total reflectance technique was utilized as a fast method and the results were compared to protein loss measurements in order to show the preventive effect of argan oil pre‐treatment on excised human hair after oxidative hair damage.

Methods

Hair tresses were divided into three groups: in group‐1; they were damaged using oxidant agent solely, in group‐2 and 3; hair were pre‐treated with argan oil before undergoing the oxidative damage. In group‐2, the oil was removed by physical cleaning but in group‐3 the oil was removed with a washing procedure. ATR (attenuated total reflectance) spectrum was recorded for different samples. Quantitative studies of protein loss in hair samples were performed by Lowry method. The antioxidant properties of argan oil were also measured in vitro using 2, 2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) protocol, which determined the ability of the oil to scavenge the DPPH free radicals.

Results

The amount of protein loss with oil pre‐treated groups was reduced significantly. The ATR spectrum showed oil deposition on hair even after washing. Four distinctive ATR peaks were changed during oxidation. The changes in peak height values were linear. The antioxidant property measured with DPPH method led to a IC50 value of 59 µg/ml.

Conclusion

Argan oil pre‐treatment was effective in protecting hair against oxidative damage. ATR outcomes were in accordance with protein loss results. In this study, the ATR testing method as a fast technique was used efficiently in quantification of hair damage.
The potential of ethnographic drama in the representation, interpretation, and democratization of sociolinguistic research
Authors: Blackledge Adrian , Creese Angela
Published: February 2022

In this paper, we discuss the affordances of an approach to the representation, interpretation, and democratization of sociolinguistic research, which utilizes the tools and methods of the theatre. Taking as an example a team ethnographic research project conducted across four cities in the UK, we discuss the process of creating drama from material observed as social practice. Drawing on observations in a welfare advice centre in a Chinese community centre, and a city‐based volleyball team, we propose that theatre techniques enable audiences and academic researchers to see communicative encounters in a new light. We propose that ethnographic drama offers three opportunities in particular: (i) it has the potential to make available outcomes of research beyond the academy; (ii) it has the potential to discover understandings of ethnographic material which remain latent in accounts that do not involve performance; and (iii) it has the capacity to democratize voice, privileging the voices of research participants rather than those of academic researchers. Ethnographic drama thus offers considerable potential in the representation, interpretation, and democratization of sociolinguistic research.
Cytomegalovirus infection in a single‐centre Australian neonatal cohort
Authors: Seneviratne Maheesha , Fernando Malindu E , Kandasamy Yogavijayan , White Andrew , Sabesan Vanaja , Norton Robert
Published: February 2022

Aim

Congenital cytomegalovirus (cCMV) is the most common infectious cause of congenital malformation, non‐genetic sensorineural hearing loss and neurodevelopmental sequelae in childhood. The primary aim of this retrospective cohort study was to identify the birth and neurodevelopmental outcomes of neonates diagnosed with symptomatic and asymptomatic cCMV in a large regional tertiary referral hospital.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of laboratory‐based cCMV diagnoses in neonates born at a single study centre between January 2005 and January 2020. Audit of medical records was undertaken to evaluate maternal characteristics, symptom patterns, radiological and neurodevelopmental outcomes of neonates meeting the laboratory diagnostic criteria during the first 24 months.

Results

There were 45 neonates with proven CMV infection and 27 mothers with proven infection with an associated pregnancy outcome. Nineteen neonates were born at term (>37 weeks). Of these, 32 (71.1%) neonates had a significant intercurrent comorbidity and 22 (48.9%) neonates were reported to have a degree of delay in one or more developmental domains. A large proportion (77.3%) of the symptomatic untreated neonates had an unknown history of maternal infection compared to the asymptomatic (10.0%) and symptomatic treated (53.8%) neonates (P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Up to half of the neonates with cCMV were at risk of developing a degree of developmental delay at our centre. Whether these outcomes are related primarily to CMV infection or are confounded by the co‐existence of prematurity is unclear and needs further evaluation in prospective studies.
Broadband internet subscription rates and opioid prescribing via telemedicine during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Oyler Douglas R. , Slavova Svetla , Freeman Patricia R. , Huang Zhengyan , Talbert Jeffery , Walsh Sharon L. , Westgate Philip M.
Published: February 2022

Purpose

In response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, the US DEA allowed controlled substance prescriptions to be issued following a telemedicine encounter. This study evaluated changes in opioid prescribing in Kentucky counties with low and high rates of broadband subscription before, during, and after a series of statewide emergency declarations that may have affected health care access.

Methods

The study used the prescription drug monitoring program to analyze records of opioid analgesic prescriptions dispensed to opioid‐naïve individuals in high (N = 26) and low (N = 94) broadband access counties during 3 periods: before a state of emergency (SOE) and executive order (EO) limiting nonemergent health care services (January 2019‐February 2020), while the EO was active (March‐April 2020), and after health care services began reopening (May‐December 2020). Marginal generalized estimating equations‐type negative binomial models were fit to compare prescription counts by broadband access over the 3 periods.

Findings

Rates of opioid dispensing to opioid‐naïve individuals decreased significantly during the EO, but increased nearly to pre‐SOE levels after health care services began reopening. Dispensing rates in low broadband counties were higher than those in high broadband counties during all time periods, although these differences were negligible after adjusting for potential confounders. During the EO, prescriptions were written for longer days’ supply in both county types.

Conclusions

The overall dramatic reduction in opioid prescribing rates should be considered when evaluating annual opioid prescribing trends. However, broadband subscription rate did not appear to influence opioid prescriptions dispensed in Kentucky during the EO.
Association between periodic limb movements during sleep and neuroimaging features of cerebral small vessel disease: A preliminary cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ouyang Fubing , Wang Meng , Liao Mengshi , Lan Linfan , Liu Xiaolu , Li Hao , Mo Rong , Shi Lin , Fan Yuhua
Published: February 2022

Evidence on the relationship between periodic limb movements during sleep (PLMS) and cerebral small vessel disease is lacking. This study aimed to assess the association between the PLMS index and the neuroimaging features of cerebral small vessel disease on magnetic resonance imaging. Consecutive patients diagnosed with cerebral small vessel disease were enrolled. Data on the clinical characteristics, polysomnography, and brain magnetic resonance imaging were collected. The Accubrain software was used to calculate automatically the volume of white matter hyperintensities, the number of lacunar infarctions, and cerebral microbleeds. The severity of white matter hyperintensities, enlarged basal ganglia perivascular spaces, and the total cerebral small vessel disease scores were also rated visually using semiquantitative scales. The severity of PLMS was measured using the PLMS index, and the patients were divided into two groups using an established cut‐off value of ≥15 per hour. Logistic regression was used to examine the association between PLMS and the neuroimaging features of cerebral small vessel disease. In total, 37 patients were included in the final analyses. The mean age was 66.49 ± 11.31 years, and 73.0% were males. The mean PLMS index was 19.30 ± 10.18. In univariate analyses, it was found that patients with cerebral small vessel disease with a PLMS index ≥15 had increased enlarged basal ganglia perivascular spaces (OR 6.136, 95%CI 1.101–34.214) and increased total cerebral small vessel disease scores (OR 6.0, 95%CI 1.253–28.742). Only the association between the PLMS index and the total cerebral small vessel disease burden score remained statistically significant after adjusting for age, sex, and the presence of moderate to severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome. In conclusion, an elevated PLMS index is likely to be associated with a greater cerebral small vessel disease burden. PLMS might be a novel potential marker of cerebral small vessel disease.
Euro Area Periphery Countries' Fiscal Policy and Monetary Policy Surprises*
Authors: Hülsewig Oliver , Rottmann Horst
Published: February 2022

We estimate local projections to explore how fiscal policy in euro area periphery countries responds to monetary policy shocks that lower sovereign bond yields. In particular, we assess whether the disciplining effect of financial markets on public finances is undermined by the ability of monetary policy to affect the conditions of external funds. We find that the fiscal balance, on average, improves in response to monetary policy surprises that bring down yields on sovereign bonds.
Blameworthiness, Control, and ConsciousnessOr A Consciousness Requirement and an Argument For It
Authors: Hatcher Michael
Published: February 2022

I first clarify the idea that blameworthiness requires consciousness as the view that one can be blameworthy only for what is a response to a reason of which one is conscious. Next I develop the following argument: blameworthiness requires exercising control in a way distinctive of persons and doing this, in view of what it is to be a person, requires responding to a reason of which one is conscious. Then I defend this argument from an objection inspired by Arpaly and Schroeder according to which responding to moral reasons suffices for exercising control distinctive of persons.
Neural correlates of unpredictable Stop and non‐Stop cues in overt and imagined execution
Authors: González‐Villar Alberto , Galdo‐Álvarez Santiago , Carrillo‐de‐la‐Peña María T.
Published: February 2022

The ability to inhibit incorrect behaviors is crucial for survival. In real contexts, cues that require stopping usually appear intermixed with indications to continue the ongoing action. However, in the classical Stop‐signal task (SST), the unpredictable stimuli are always signals that require inhibition. To understand the neural mechanisms activated by low‐probability nonstop cues, we recorded the electroencephalography from 23 young volunteers while they performed a modified SST where the unpredictable stimuli could be either Stop or confirmatory Go signals (CGo). To isolate the influence of motor output, the SST was performed during overt and covert execution. We found that, paradoxically, CGo stimuli activated motor inhibition processes, and evoked patterns of brain activity similar to those obtained after Stop signals (N2/P3 event‐related potentials and midfrontal theta power increase), though in lesser magnitude. These patterns were also observed during the imagined performance. Finally, applying machine learning procedures, we found that the brain activity evoked after CGo versus Stop signals can be classified above chance during both, overt and imagined execution. Our results provide evidence that unpredictable signals cause motor inhibition even when they require to continue an ongoing action.
Meaning‐Making, Negotiation, and Change in School Accountability, Or What Sociology Can Offer Policy Studies
Authors: Trinidad Jose Eos
Published: February 2022

In school systems around the world, countless reform strategies have focused on school and teacher accountability—the process of evaluating schools’ performance on the basis of student measures. Policy and education research has been dominated by debates on its effectiveness, where advocates highlight the positive effects on achievement while critics emphasize the negative consequences on pressure, morale, and autonomy. Yet the question is not so much whether to have accountability, but what form it should take. To answer this, sociologists contribute through their study of accountability’s organizational and ecological dynamics—key facets that are sidelined when researchers only focus on quantitative program evaluation. An organizational perspective highlights the meaning‐making school actors and the general public have of the policy, viewing it through technical‐rationalist and institutional‐performative lenses. An ecological perspective highlights how the form of accountability is a negotiated outcome of larger macrosocial forces, and how accountability is itself contributive to larger social changes. This review suggests a broader conceptualization of accountability regimes, and the unique contribution of critical, organizational, and sociological perspectives to the study of public policies.