bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Law, Psychology, and Wrongful Convictions
Authors: Garrett Brandon L. , Crozier William
Published: February 2023

The study of psychology in law is integrally linked to wrongful convictions. Archival research and case studies of cases in which the wrong person was convicted of a crime provide real-life examples of errors that psychologists seek to understand. In turn, psychological research, particularly laboratory studies, provide explanations for how these errors can occur, making it easier to detect and address wrongful convictions in the future. This chapter discusses how eyewitness evidence, forensic evidence, false confessions, informant testimony, alibi evidence, police technology, plea bargaining, and features of the adversarial legal system can result in wrongful convictions—and how research has led to recommendations to avoid them. However, the work is not complete, and we make recommendations for how new research can address gaps in our current understanding, especially in areas where legal protections in the United States are currently inadequate.
Police Responses to Domestic Abuse during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Positive Action and Police Legitimacy
Authors: Johnson Kelly , Hohl Katrin
Published: February 2023

This article presents evidence from a mixed-methods study examining the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on frontline police responses to domestic abuse, with a particular focus on ‘positive action’, across seven police forces in England. Statistical analysis of police-recorded domestic abuse administrative data is combined with 73 semi-structured officer interviews conducted over the first year of the pandemic (June 2020 to June 2021). Findings identify officers felt their general approach to domestic abuse remained unchanged. However, officers used their discretion to adapt positive action practices to the pandemic context, for example, by temporarily making greater use of arrests, Domestic Violence Protection Notices/Orders, and informal measures. Mirroring broader tensions relating to police legitimacy arising during the pandemic, officers saw victim safeguarding as a priority but simultaneously expressed concern about proportionality. The article concludes by addressing the implications of the findings for the understanding and evaluation of domestic abuse policing practices both within and beyond the pandemic context—in terms of informing theoretical understandings of positive action, as well as police institutional knowledge, policy, and practice going forwards.
Assessing pain—the invisible, long-haul polio symptom
Authors: Tetz Karen B. , Schoenbeck Susan L.
Published: February 2023

Chronic pain is a common problem for polio survivors. Nurses are on the front line to assess the scope, severity, and impact of reported pain. This article describes how nurses can advocate for patients experiencing post-polio syndrome pain.
How gender disparities affect otolaryngology specialty selection: an international cross-sectional survey
Authors: Nuss Sarah , Denton Alexa , Aragão João , Sprow Holly N. , Daudu Davina , Kondamuri Neil , Hampton Thomas , O’Byrne Thomas J. , Wiedermann Joshua P.
Published: February 2023

Introduction:

Most studies evaluating gender disparities in surgical specialties as a career choice are limited to high-income countries and have largely evaluated surgical subspecialties in aggregate.

Objective:

This study aimed to describe gender-based differences in otolaryngology specialty selection amongst medical students, trainees, and attendings/consultants across both low- and middle-income (LMICs) and high-income countries.

Materials and methods:

An online cross-sectional survey with 2 arms was administered. The first arm asked medical students about gender-related factors that impact interest in otolaryngology. The second arm asked otolaryngology residents and attendings about gender-related factors that impacted otolaryngology specialty selection and career satisfaction. Descriptive statistics were used to summarize patient demographics and survey responses. Responses were compared by gender using χ2 and Fisher Exact tests. Subgroup analyses between gender and country income status were also conducted.

Results:

There were 67 medical student respondents (45% male, 54% female, 1.5% nonbinary) and 38 attending/consultant or resident respondents (47% male, 53% female, 0% nonbinary). Thirty-six (36%) of medical students were from LMICs, while 45% of attending/residents were from LMICs. Overall, the results demonstrated gender discrimination and gender-based barriers against female medical students considering otolaryngology and otolaryngologists worldwide that may not be recognized by their male colleagues.

Conclusion:

The results of these surveys highlight the need for continued education and anti-discrimination policy and advocacy in otolaryngology globally. This information can be leveraged to inform regionally specific research on gender disparities in the otolaryngology workforce and provide a foundation for initiatives to address gender disparities in otolaryngology programs.
Topical Pharyngeal Anesthesia in Sedated Pediatric Patients Undergoing Esophagogastroduodenoscopy
Authors: Aljabari Salim , Ohler Adrienne , Waheed Shahzad , El-Halabi Issam , Tryon Christina , Friedman Samantha
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

Pediatric patients undergoing esophagogastroduodenoscopy (EGD) commonly receive procedural sedation for comfort and to facilitate the procedure. EGD with procedural sedation carries the risk of several airway incidents and/or adverse events (AIAE). Topical pharyngeal anesthetics (TPAs) can blunt the airway reflexes and decrease the incidence of laryngospasm but has not been well studied with EGD under procedural sedation. We aimed to study the effect of adding a TPA to propofol-based sedation on the rate of AIAE.

Methods:

This is a single-center, retrospective, observational cohort study. We compare AIAE rates (coughing, gagging, apnea, airway obstruction, and laryngospasm) in children who received TPA as part of their propofol-based procedural sedation for EGD with those who did not receive TPA.

Results:

In 2021, 73 patients received TPA as part of the procedural sedation for EGD and 123 did not. The overall rate of AIAE was high with 75 (38%) patients experiencing 1 or more AIAE. Patients who received benzocaine spray experienced more AIAE than the control group [adjusted odds ratio (aOR) = 1.16; 95% confidence interval (CI): 1.01–1.34; P = 0.037]. Coughing, gagging, apnea with desaturation rates, and laryngospasm were similar in both groups (coughing aOR = 1.01; 95% CI: 0.91–1.13; P = 0.814; gagging aOR = 1.01; 95% CI: 0.91–1.13; P = 0.814; apnea aOR = 0.99; 95% CI: 0.95–1.04; P = 0.688; laryngospasm OR = 1.01; 95% CI: 0.95–1.07; P = 0.71). The rate of airway obstruction requiring jaw thrust was higher in the benzocaine group but did not reach statistical significance (aOR = 1.11; 95% CI: 0.97–1.26; P = 0.133).

Conclusion:

The use of topical pharyngeal benzocaine in children undergoing EGD with propofol-based sedation is associated with a higher overall AIAE rate. Most of the AIAE were mild incidents and only 7 patients experienced true adverse events.
Correlation Between the Nancy Histopathology Index and Markers of Disease Activity in Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Faingelernt Yaniv , Morgenstern Sara , Matar Manar , Weintraub Yael , Shamir Raanan , Shouval Dror S.
Published: February 2023

The Nancy Histological Index (NHI) was developed to assess histological disease activity in adult ulcerative colitis (UC) patients. However, data in pediatrics is limited. Our aim was to determine whether the NHI correlates with different indices of disease activity in pediatric UC patients. We retrospectively reviewed the NHI in rectal biopsies from 61 pediatric UC patients (median age 14.3 years), of whom 34 (55.7%) were newly diagnosed. The median Pediatric Ulcerative Colitis Activity Index (PUCAI) score among participants was 30 (interquartile range 5–55). Most patients exhibited an NHI of 3 (41/61, 67.2%) or 4 (8/61, 13.1%), reflecting moderate-severe histologic inflammation. A moderate positive correlation was identified between the NHI and PUCAI, fecal calprotectin, and Mayo endoscopic scores (r = 0.60, 0.54, and 0.56 respectively, P ≤ 0.001), but not with CRP or albumin. These results indicate that the NHI has a modest correlation with clinical, laboratory and endoscopic indices of disease activity in pediatric UC patients.
COMPARISON OF THE PREDICTIVE PERFORMANCE OF CARDIOGENIC SHOCK SCORES IN A REAL-WORLD LATIN AMERICA COUNTRY
Authors: Ortega-Hernández Jorge , González-Pacheco Héctor , Gopar-Nieto Rodrigo , Araiza-Garaygordobil Diego , Sierra Lara-Martínez Daniel , Briseño De La Cruz José Luis , Mendoza-García Salvador , Altamirano-Castillo Alfredo , Montañez-Orozco Álvaro , Baeza-Herrera Luis Augusto , Hernández-Montfort Jaime , Aguilar-Montaño Klayder Melissa , Soliz Uriona Luis Alejandro , Meza López Jesús Ángel Freddy , Lizano Loría Carlos Alonso , Arias-Mendoza Alexandra
Published: February 2023

Background: Mortality in cardiogenic shock (CS) is up to 40%, and although risk scores have been proposed to stratify and assess mortality in CS, they have been shown to have inconsistent performance. The purpose was to compare CS prognostic scores and describe their performance in a real-world Latin American country. Methods: We included 872 patients with CS. The Society for Cardiovascular Angiography and Interventions (SCAI), CARDSHOCK, IABP-Shock II, Cardiogenic Shock Score, age-lactate-creatinine score, Get-With-The-Guidelines Heart Failure score, and Acute Decompensated Heart Failure National Registry scores were calculated. Decision curve analyses were performed to evaluate the net benefit of the different scoring systems. Logistic and Cox regression analyses were applied to construct area under the curve (AUC) statistics, this last one against time using the Inverse Probability of Censoring Weighting method, for in-hospital mortality prediction. Results: When logistic regression was applied, the scores had a moderate-good performance in the overall cohort that was higher AUC in the CARDSHOCK (c = 0.666). In acute myocardial infarction-related CS (AMI-CS), CARDSHOCK still is the highest AUC (0.68). In non–AMI-CS only SCAI (0.668), CARDSHOCK (0.533), and IABP-SHOCK II (0.636) had statistically significant values. When analyzed over time, significant differences arose in the AUC, suggesting that a time-sensitive component influenced the prediction of mortality. The highest AUC was for the CARDSHOCK score (0.658), followed by SCAI (0.622). In AMI-CS-related, the highest AUC was for the CARDSHOCK score (0.671). In non–AMI-CS, SCAI was the best (0.642). Conclusions: Clinical scores show a time-sensitive AUC, suggesting that performance could be influenced by time and the type of CS. Understanding the temporal influence on the scores could provide a better prediction and be a valuable tool in CS.
Smell, taste and chemesthesis disorders in patients with the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant in China
Authors: Chen Ying , Chen Yuying , Liu Xiang , Yan Chao , Zou Laiquan
Published: February 2023

Background

Chemosensory disorders (including smell, taste and chemesthesis) are among the established symptoms of COVID-19 infection; however, new data indicate that the changes in chemosensory sensation caused by COVID-19 may differ among populations and COVID-19 variants. To date, few studies have focused on the influence of the SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant on qualitative changes and quantitative reductions in chemosensory function in China.

Methodology

We conducted a cross sectional study of patients with COVID-19 caused by the Omicron variant, to investigate the prevalence of chemosensory disorders and chemosensory function before and during infection, using an online questionnaire.

Results

A total of 1245 patients with COVID-19 completed the survey. The prevalence rates of smell, taste, and chemesthesis disorders were 69.2%, 67.7%, and 31.4%, respectively. Our data indicate that sex, age, smoking, and COVID-19-related symptoms, such as lack of appetite, dyspnea, and fatigue, may be associated with chemosensory disorders during COVID-19.

Conclusions

Self-rating of chemosensory function revealed that patients experienced a general decline in smell, taste, and chemesthesis function. Further longitudinal research studies are needed to generate additional data based on objective assessment and investigate the factors influencing chemosensory function in COVID-19.
Inducible mismatch repair streamlines forward genetic approaches to target identification of cytotoxic small molecules
Authors: Nguyen Thu P , Fang Min , Kim Jiwoong , Wang Baiyun , Lin Elisa , Khivansara Vishal , Barrows Neha , Rivera-Cancel Giomar , Goralski Maria , Cervantes Christopher L , Xie Shanhai , Peterson Johann M , Povedano Juan Manuel , Antczak Monika I , Posner Bruce A , McFadden David G , Ready Joseph M , De Brabander Jef K , Nijhawan Deepak
Published: February 2023

Orphan cytotoxins are small molecules for which the mechanism of action (MoA) is either unknown or ambiguous. Unveiling the mechanism of these compounds may lead to useful tools for biological investigation and in some cases, new therapeutic leads. In select cases, the DNA mismatch repair-deficient colorectal cancer cell line, HCT116, has been used as a tool in forward genetic screens to identify compound-resistant mutations, which have ultimately led to target identification. To expand the utility of this approach, we engineered cancer cell lines with inducible mismatch repair deficits, thus providing temporal control over mutagenesis. By screening for compound resistance phenotypes in cells with low or high rates of mutagenesis, we increased both the specificity and sensitivity of identifying resistance mutations. Using this inducible mutagenesis system, we implicate targets for multiple orphan cytotoxins, including a natural product and compounds emerging from a high-throughput screen, thus providing a robust tool for future MoA studies.
Neural responses to repeated noise structure in sounds are invariant to temporal interruptions
Authors: Herrmann Björn
Published: February 2023

The ability to extract meaning from acoustic environments requires sensitivity to repeating sound structure. Yet, how events that repeat are encoded and maintained in the brain and how the brain responds to events that reoccur at later points in time is not well understood. In two electroencephalography experiments, participants listened to a longer, ongoing white-noise sound which comprised shorter, frozen noise snippets that repeated at a regular 2-Hz rate. In several conditions, the snippet repetition discontinued for a brief period after which the noise snippet reoccurred. The experiments aimed to answer whether neural activity becomes entrained by the regular repetition of noise snippets, whether entrained neural activity self-sustains during the discontinuation period, and how the brain responds to a reoccurring noise snippet. Results show that neural activity is entrained by the snippet repetition, but there was no evidence for self-sustained neural activity during the discontinuation period. However, auditory cortex responded with similar magnitude to a noise snippet reoccurring after a brief discontinuation as it responded to a noise snippet for which the snippet repetition had not been discontinued. This response invariance was observed for different onset times of the reoccurring noise snippet relative to the previously established regularity. The results thus demonstrate that the auditory cortex sensitively responds to, and thus maintains a memory trace of, previously learned acoustic noise independent of temporal interruptions.
High fat diet ameliorates mitochondrial cardiomyopathy in CHCHD10 mutant mice
Authors: Southwell Nneka , Manzo Onorina , Zhao Dazhi , Sayles Nicole M. , Dash Jalia , Fujita Keigo , D’Aurelio Marilena , Di Lorenzo Annarita , Manfredi Giovanni , Kawamata Hibiki
Published: February 2023

Mutations inCHCHD10, a mitochondrial protein with undefined functions, are associated with autosomal dominant mitochondrial diseases.Chchd10knock-in mice harboring a heterozygous S55L mutation (equivalent to human pathogenic S59L) develop a fatal mitochondrial cardiomyopathy caused by CHCHD10 aggregation and proteotoxic mitochondrial integrated stress response (mtISR). In mutant hearts, mtISR is accompanied by a metabolic rewiring characterized by increased reliance on glycolysis rather than fatty acid oxidation. To counteract this metabolic rewiring, heterozygous S55L mice were subjected to chronic high fat diet (HFD) to decrease insulin sensitivity and glucose uptake and enhance fatty acid utilization in the heart. HFD ameliorated the ventricular dysfunction of mutant hearts and significantly extended the survival of mutant female mice affected by severe pregnancy-induced cardiomyopathy. Gene expression profiles confirmed that HFD increased fatty acid utilization and ameliorated cardiomyopathy markers. Importantly, HFD also decreased accumulation of aggregated CHCHD10 in the S55L heart, suggesting activation of quality control mechanisms. Overall, our findings indicate that metabolic therapy can be effective in mitochondrial cardiomyopathies associated with proteotoxic stress.
Control of telomere length in yeast by SUMOylated PCNA and the Elg1 PCNA unloader
Authors: Singh Pragyan , Gazy Inbal , Kupiec Martin
Published: February 2023

Telomeres cap and protect the linear eukaryotic chromosomes. Telomere length is determined by an equilibrium between positive and negative regulators of telomerase activity. A systematic screen for yeast mutants that affect telomere length maintenance in the yeastSaccharomyces cerevisiaerevealed that mutations in any of ∼500 genes affects telomere length. One of the genes that, when mutated, causes telomere elongation isELG1, which encodes an unloader of PCNA, the processivity factor for replicative DNA polymerases. PCNA can undergo SUMOylation on two conserved residues, K164 and K127, or ubiquitination at lysine 164. These modifications have already been implicated in genome stability processes. We report that SUMOylated PCNA acts as a signal that positively regulates telomerase activity. We also uncovered physical interactions between Elg1 and the CST (Cdc13-Stn1-Ten) complex, and dissected the mechanism by which Elg1 and Stn1 negatively regulates telomere elongation, coordinated by SUMO. We present a model that provides mechanistic insights on how chromosomal replication and telomere elongation are coordinated.
Adaptation of the e-servicescape model to the online exhibition industry
Authors: Leung Wing Ki , Ho Grace , Leung Rosanna
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The servicescape model has been widely adapted in various service industries, but this model may not be applicable if the exhibition is transformed from physical to online. Moreover, there is only a handful of research on online exhibitions; studies focusing on visitor behaviors from various types of online exhibitions and the differences between genders are still lacking. This study aims to examine the different variables in the e-servicescape model and discuss how e-servicescape affects visitor behavior based on the exhibition types and gender differences.

Design/methodology/approach

The e-servicescape model is adapted in this study. Qualitative interviews were conducted prior to a quantitative online survey to examine by regression analysis the relationships among the dimensions in e-servicescape and how it affects visitor subsequent behavior. Data analyses are based on the differences between exhibition types and gender differences in response to the three environmental dimensions, namely, aesthetic appeal, layout and functionality, and security concern.

Findings

The findings show that visitors pay more attention to artistic enjoyment in art-related exhibitions and focus on informative issues in other types of exhibitions. “Aesthetic appeal” and “layout and functionality” are important to both genders, but little concern is shown to computer security issues. Female visitors are concerned with aesthetic design and male visitors stress layout and functionality elements. In terms of the security concerns, females have no concern about cookies function, while males have no concern on leaving search history on the website.

Originality/value

There is no previous relevant research on the relationships and influence between e-servicescape and online exhibition; this study focuses on the application of e-servicescape to the online exhibition industry and helps fill this research gap.
Measuring research efficiency and its determining factors for Indonesian R&D institutions: does scientific publication make a difference?
Authors: Afriana Finik Mutia , Khoirunurrofik Khoirunurrofik
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The outcomes of public research institutions (PRIs), also known as research and development (R&D) institutions, in developing countries, including Indonesia, are still dubious. This study aims to measure the efficiency of R&D institutions using the case of the Indonesian Institute of Sciences, with and without an assessment of the role of scientific publication.

Design/methodology/approach

A panel data envelopment analysis (DEA) model is used to estimate the research efficiency of Indonesian R&D institutions during the period 2016–2019 based on the relationship between intellectual property (IP), research budgets and number of active researchers. The Tobit model is subsequently applied to analyze the factors that affect efficiency.

Findings

The DEA analysis shows an average efficiency value of 0.361, implying that 42% of the decision-making units (DMUs) have above-average efficiency scores. When scientific publication is added as an output variable, the efficiency increases to an average of 0.545, resulting in 53% of the DMUs with above-average efficiency.

Research limitations/implications

The main implication is that scientific publications can increase the output of R&D institutions in Indonesia. This study recommends strengthening the research group establishment led by research professors along with setting acceptable high output targets. Researcher competence must be improved together with support for research collaboration among the different fields of science. Scientific publications should be considered part of IP measurement along with the type of mandate of each PRI.

Practical implications

This study offers a method of evaluation of research efficiency that can be applied to institutions outside Indonesia, thus furthering the dialogue on science and technology policy management.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the literature by using a new and comprehensive method to measure research output – that of IP measurement, including new scientific publication. The implications provide action points for the governments to support R&D institutions and for research practitioners to augment research output.
Decoupling pioneering traits from latitudinal patterns in a north American bird experiencing a southward range shift
Authors: Siefferman Lynn , Bentz Alexandra B. , Rosvall Kimberly A.
Published: February 2023

Ecogeographic rules describe spatial patterns in biological trait variation and shed light on the drivers of such variation. In animals, a consensus is emerging that ‘pioneering’ traits may facilitate range shifts via a set of bold, aggressive and stress‐resilient traits. Many of these same traits are associated with more northern latitudes, and most range shifts in the northern hemisphere indicate northward movement. As a consequence, it is unclear whether pioneering traits are simply corollaries of existing latitudinal variation, or whether they override other well‐trodden latitudinal patterning as a unique ecogeographic rule of phenotypic variation.

The tree swallow Tachycineta bicolor is a songbird undergoing a southward range shift in the eastern United States, in direct opposition of the poleward movement seen in most other native species' range shifts. Because this organic range shift countervails the typical direction of movement, this case study provides for unique ecological insights on organisms and their ability to thrive in our changing world.

We sampled female birds across seven populations, quantifying behavioural, physiological and morphological traits. We also used GIS and field data to quantify a core set of ecological factors with strong ties to these traits as well as female performance.

Females at more southern expansion sites displayed higher maternal aggression, higher baseline corticosterone and more pronounced elevation of corticosterone following a standardized stressor, contrary to otherwise largely conserved latitudinal patterning in these traits. Microhabitat variation explained some quantitative phenotypic variation, but the expansion and historic ranges did not differ in openness, distance to water or breeding density.

This countervailing range shift therefore suggests that pioneering traits are not simply corollaries of existing latitudinal variation, but rather, they may override other well‐trodden latitudinal patterning as a unique ecogeographic rule of phenotypic variation.
New‐onset retroperitoneal fibrosis following COVID‐19 mRNA vaccination: Coincidental or vaccine‐induced phenomenon?
Authors: Ture Hirut Yadeta , Kim Na Ri , Nam Eon Jeong
Published: February 2023

The Pfizer‐BioNTech mRNA vaccine is a US Food and Drug Administration‐approved coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) vaccine. Although it is reported to be safe and effective, immune dysregulation leading to autoimmunity has become an area of concern. Retroperitoneal fibrosis (RPF) is an immune‐mediated fibroinflammatory disease characterized by the deposition of fibrous tissues, primarily around the abdominal aorta and iliac arteries. Herein, we report a case of RPF following Pfizer BioNTech COVID‐19 mRNA vaccination. To the best of our knowledge, there have been no published reports on RPF after COVID‐19 mRNA vaccination. A 58‐year‐old woman with no history of autoimmune diseases presented with acute onset of epigastric pain 5 weeks after the second dose of the Pfizer‐BioNTech vaccine. She had been diagnosed with stage I breast cancer 9 years ago and was in complete remission on admission. Abdominal computed tomography showed preaortic soft‐tissue infiltration around the origin of the superior mesenteric artery but no evidence of breast cancer recurrence. Considering the temporal relationship between current symptoms and vaccination and the absence of other possible causes, she was diagnosed with RPF secondary to Pfizer‐BioNTech vaccine‐induced autoimmunity. This case may raise awareness of the possibility of RPF development following COVID‐19 mRNA vaccination.
Another Form of Aboriginal Exemption — Employment as Protection Against Removal
Authors: Lawrence Christina Elizabeth
Published: February 2023

The Queensland Aboriginals Protection and Restriction of the Sale of Opium Act 1897, which introduced the system of exemption certificates, also initiated another form of “exemption” — one based on employment. The Act permitted “lawfully employed” Aboriginal people to be “excepted” from forcible removal to reserves. Those placed on an Aboriginal reserve faced a restrictive life of disconnection from Country, kin networks, and traditional practices and way of life. Many Aboriginal people found employment in the pastoral industry and thus avoided the Act's provision of removal to a reserve. This paper interrogates government records and reports to provide an understanding of the development and implementation of this legislation and the racial ideologies underpinning it. The 1898 diary of a Queensland pastoralist who employed Aboriginal men on his station is also examined to obtain an understanding of the roles, experiences, and position of Aboriginal people in the pastoral industry during this period. These findings reveal that despite hardships faced in the pastoral industry, Aboriginal people found advantages in this form of employment. Through their highly sought‐after pastoral skills and expertise, and strategic engagement with Europeans, Aboriginal people excelled in the pastoral industry, and many achieved significant levels of freedom and success.
Racial differences in clinical characteristics and readmission burden among patients with a left ventricular‐assist device
Authors: Sherazi Saadia , Alexis Jeffrey D. , McNitt Scott , Polonsky Bronislava , Shah Suhaib , Younis Arwa , Kutyifa Valentina , Vidula Himabindu , Gosev Igor , Goldenberg Ilan
Published: February 2023

Background

There are limited data regarding racial disparities in outcomes after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. The purpose of this study was to compare clinical characteristics and the burden of readmissions by race among patients with LVAD.

Methods

The study population included 461 patients implanted with LVADs at the University of Rochester Medical Center, NY from May 2008 to March 2020. Patients were stratified by race as White patients (N = 396 [86%]) and Black patients (N = 65 [14%]). The Anderson‐Gill recurrent regression analysis was used to assess the independent association between race and the total number of admissions after LVAD implant during an average follow‐up of 2.45 ± 2.30 years.

Results

Black patients displayed significant differences in baseline clinical characteristics compared to White patients, including a younger age, a lower frequency of ischemic etiology, and a higher baseline serum creatinine. Black patients had a significantly higher burden of readmissions after LVAD implantation as compared with White patients 10 versus 7 (average number of hospitalizations per patient at 5 years of follow‐up, respectively) translated into a significant 39% increased risk of recurrent readmissions after multivariate adjustment (Hazard ratio 1.39, 95% CI; 1.07–1.82, p 0.013).

Conclusion

Black LVAD patients experience an increased burden of readmissions compared with White patients, after adjustment for baseline differences in demographics and clinical characteristics. Future studies should assess the underlying mechanisms for this increased risk including the effect of social determinants of health on the risk of readmissions in LVAD recipients.
Editorial: real‐world evidence of tofacitinib and vedolizumab in ulcerative colitis—are we one step closer to better positioning therapies after anti‐TNF failure?
Authors: Ernest‐Suarez Kenneth , Lu Cathy
Published: February 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Buisson et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17305 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17405
Trends in risk factor control and treatment among patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease and type 2 diabetes between 2000 and 2020: A territory‐wide study
Authors: Zhang Xinrong , Yip Terry Cheuk‐Fung , Tse Yee‐Kit , Hui Vicki Wing‐Ki , Li Guanlin , Lin Huapeng , Liang Lilian Yan , Lai Jimmy Che‐To , Lai Mandy Sze‐Man , Cheung Johnny T. K. , Chan Henry Lik‐Yuen , Chan Stephen Lam , Kong Alice Pik‐Shan , Wong Grace Lai‐Hung , Wong Vincent Wai‐Sun
Published: February 2023

Background & Aims

We aimed to determine the trends in risk factor control and treatment among patients with non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) and type 2 diabetes (T2D) in 2000–2020.

Methods

We conducted a territory‐wide cohort study of adult patients with NAFLD and T2D diagnosed between 1 January 2000 and 31 July 2021 in Hong Kong. T2D was defined by use of any anti‐diabetic agents, laboratory tests and/or diagnosis codes.

Results

This study included 16,084 patients with NAFLD and T2D (mean age, 54.8 ± 12.0 years; 7124 male [44.3%]). The percentage of patients achieving individualised haemoglobin A1c (HbA1c) targets increased from 44.5% (95% confidence interval [CI], 42.9–46.1) to 64.8% (95% CI, 64.1–65.5), and percentage of patients achieving individualised low‐density lipoprotein‐cholesterol (LDL‐C) targets increased from 23.3% (95% CI, 21.9–24.7) to 54.3% (95% CI, 53.5–55.1) from 2000–2005 to 2016–2020, whereas percentage of patients achieving blood pressure control (<140/90 mm Hg) remained static at 53.1–57.2%. Combination therapy for diabetes increased, especially among those with poor glycaemic control, but there was no increase in combination therapy for hypertension. Fewer cirrhotic patients achieved blood pressure control and individualised LDL‐C targets, but they were more likely to achieve individualised HbA1c targets than non‐cirrhotics. Metformin and statins were underused in cirrhotic patients. Younger patients (18–44 years) were less likely to achieve individualised HbA1c targets than middle‐aged (45–64 years) and older ones (≥65 years).

Conclusions

From 2000 to 2020, glycaemic and lipid control improved significantly, whereas blood pressure control remained static among patients with NAFLD and T2D.
Opioid research in the time of the opioid crisis
Authors: Traynor John R. , Moron Jose A.
Published: February 2023

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue on Advances in Opioid Pharmacology at the Time of the Opioid Epidemic. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v180.7/issuetoc
Design, synthesis, in vitro evaluation, and molecular modeling studies of N‐substituted benzomorphans, analogs of LP2, as novel MOR ligands
Authors: Costanzo Giuliana , Patamia Vincenzo , Turnaturi Rita , Parenti Carmela , Zagni Chiara , Lombino Jessica , Amata Emanuele , Marrazzo Agostino , Pasquinucci Lorella , Rescifina Antonio
Published: February 2023

6,7‐Benzomorphans have been investigated in medicinal chemistry for developing new drugs. This nucleus could be considered a versatile scaffold. The physicochemical properties of benzomorphan N‐substituent are crucial in achieving a definite pharmacological profile at opioid receptors. Thus, the dual‐target MOR/DOR ligands LP1 and LP2 were obtained through N‐substituent modifications. Specifically, LP2, bearing as N‐substituent the (2R/S)‐2‐methoxy‐2‐ phenylethyl group, is a dual‐target MOR/DOR agonist and is successful in animal models of inflammatory and neuropathic pain. To obtain new opioid ligands, we focused on the design and synthesis of LP2 analogs. First, the 2‐methoxyl group of LP2 was replaced by an ester or acid functional group. Then, spacers of different lengths were introduced at N‐substituent. In‐vitro, their affinity profile versus opioid receptors has been performed through competition binding assays. Molecular modeling studies were conducted to deeply analyze the binding mode and the interactions between the new ligands and all opioid receptors.
Generating inclusive services for children, youth and families: A shift to using complex systems theory
Authors: Lee Jo Ann , Wolf‐Branigin Michael
Published: February 2023

Service systems for children and families have been shaped by standard approaches to knowledge‐building, which reflect a reductionist approach and assume linearity and/or that individuals and experiences are normally distributed. Yet, these approaches may be inadequate for clients most at‐risk, especially those who would be analytic ‘outliers’. A complexity lens focuses on the whole system and seeks to identify patterns, including the dynamic interactions between components of the system. Social work scholars have begun to apply complexity theory to social work research efforts, demonstrating the conceptual potential of incorporating this theoretical approach into social work theories and models such as the person‐in‐environment framework and the ecosystems perspective. Yet, frameworks informed by complexity theory may require ontological and epistemological shifts in thinking and new methodological approaches in order to fully embody a complexity approach. Complexity theory offers the opportunity to consider social work clients who are most at‐risk, as it is better suited for power law distributions. We can, therefore, reconceptualize the most ‘at‐risk’ clients as being in a state of transition, which is also the space of most creativity and possibility.
Climate change shrinks environmental suitability for a viviparous Neotropical skink
Authors: Pio Caetano Machado Laís , de Oliveira Caetano Gabriel Henrique , Lacerda Cavalcante Vitor Hugo , B. Miles Donald , Rinaldi Colli Guarino
Published: February 2023

Anthropogenic global warming and deforestation are significant drivers of the global biodiversity crisis. Ectothermic and viviparous animals are especially vulnerable since high environmental temperatures can impair embryonic development, but we lack knowledge about these effects upon Neotropical organisms. Here, we estimate how much of the current area with suitable habitats overlaps with protected areas and model the combined effects of climate change and deforestation on the geographic distribution of the viviparous Neotropical lizard Notomabuya frenata (Scincidae). This species ranges in Brazil, Argentina, Paraguay, and Bolivia. We use environmental and physiological variables (locomotor performance and hours of activity) to predict suitable present and future areas, considering different scenarios of greenhouse gas emissions and deforestation. The most critical predictors of habitat suitability were isothermality (i.e., the ratio between mean diurnal temperature range and annual temperature range), precipitation during winter, and hours of activity under lower thermal extremes. Still, our models predict a contraction of suitable habitats in all future scenarios and the displacement of these areas towards eastern South America. In addition, protected areas are not enough to ensure suitable habitats for this species. Our findings highlight the vulnerability of tropical and viviparous ectotherms and suggest that even widely distributed species, such as N. frenata, may have their conservation compromised shortly due to the low representativeness of their suitable habitats in protected areas combined with the synergistic effects of climate change and deforestation. We stress the need for decision‐makers to consider the impact of range shifts in creating protected areas and managing endangered species.
Prioritizing populations based on recovery potential
Authors: McLellan Michelle L. , Dickie Melanie , Boutin Stan , Becker Marcus , Ernst Bevan , Peel Darcy , Zimmerman Kathryn L. , Serrouya Robert
Published: February 2023

For wide‐ranging species, it is often too expensive or politically challenging to effectively implement conservation action across their range. In these cases, conservation actions may be vigorously applied where the situation appears most dire, but inadvertently at the expense of where success is more probable. Consequently, it is prudent to use a prioritization approach that highlights areas of probable success. Using Southern Mountain Caribou as a target species, we develop a simple algorithm that integrates scaled habitat quality measures and population characteristics known to affect the demographics of caribou and weights them according to their relative importance as defined by expert opinion. The algorithm ranks subpopulations by their relative conservation status and, as a result, how likely they are to respond to additional conservation efforts and contribute to long‐term species persistence. Sensitivity analyses are then used to measure the implications of variance among key criteria and the potential variance in expert weighting. The transparent method quickly allows for real, or potential changes in criteria values, scaling, or their relative weighting, thus providing a baseline metric for conservation discussion, subpopulation comparisons, and adaptive management action. A web‐based application of the algorithm can be used directly or adapted for other species. This transparent framework can be used by conservation scientists and managers for prioritizing populations for receiving recovery actions to maximize long‐term conservation impact.
Big in the tropics–Are there thermal advantages of large body size for carpenter bees in hot climates?
Authors: Harano Ken‐ichi , Hrncir Michael
Published: February 2023

Large body size is a major advantage for flying insects living in cold climates. Size‐related metabolic heat production allows them to maintain their body temperature high enough for flight even at low ambient temperatures. Due to an elevated risk of overheating, however, large body size should be a disadvantage in hot climates. The present study asked whether large body size may provide a thermal benefit for bees even in tropical environments. To answer this question, we observed the foraging behaviour of two different‐sized carpenter bee species at flowers of Allamanda sp. in the hot semi‐arid region of Brazil. The larger species (Xylocopa frontalis) visited flowers preferentially earlier in the morning and at lower ambient temperatures than the smaller species (X. cearensis). Prior to the foraging peak of X. cearensis, nectar was more abundant in the flowers, which certainly increased the foraging success by X. frontalis. Under cool conditions, moreover, the large species harvested nectar more rapidly than the small species. A thermographic survey revealed that individuals of X. frontalis had higher thoracic temperatures than X. cearensis at the same ambient temperature, and that flower handling became faster with increasing thoracic temperature. These results clearly demonstrate that high thoracic temperatures associated with large body size are an advantage for big bees in hot environments, particularly early in the morning, since they allow an early foraging onset and lead to an increased nectar‐collecting efficiency.
Consistent physiological, ecological and evolutionary effects of fire regime on conservative leaf economics strategies in plant communities
Authors: Pellegrini Adam F. A. , Anderegg Leander , Pinto‐Ledezma Jesús N. , Cavender‐Bares Jeannine , Hobbie Sarah E. , Reich Peter B.
Published: February 2023

The functional response of plant communities to disturbance is hypothesised to be controlled by changes in environmental conditions and evolutionary history of species within the community. However, separating these influences using direct manipulations of repeated disturbances within ecosystems is rare. We evaluated how 41 years of manipulated fire affected plant leaf economics by sampling 89 plant species across a savanna‐forest ecotone. Greater fire frequencies created a high‐light and low‐nitrogen environment, with more diverse communities that contained denser leaves and lower foliar nitrogen content. Strong trait–fire coupling resulted from the combination of significant intraspecific trait–fire correlations being in the same direction as interspecific trait differences arising through the turnover in functional composition along the fire‐frequency gradient. Turnover among specific clades helped explain trait–fire trends, but traits were relatively labile. Overall, repeated burning led to reinforcing selective pressures that produced diverse plant communities dominated by conservative resource‐use strategies and slow soil nitrogen cycling.
Scalp hair loss is not random across follicular units: A new insight into human hair ageing
Authors: Luo Junyu , Qian Qili , Zheng Wenxin , Gripkauskaite Ieva , Wu Sijie , Zhang Min , Li Jinxi , Fu Bingfei , Bhogal Ranjit , Murray Peter , Rowson Matthew , Li Bin , Xue Xiangyang , Gu Xuelan , Yang Yajun , Jin Li , Gunn David Andrew , Wang Sijia
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Scalp hair has the greatest number of hairs (typically 1–5) per follicular unit but is also the most susceptible body site to hair loss with age. Hence, we set‐out to determine the degree to which scalp hair parameters change with age in women and men, any sex differences thereof and whether hair loss is random across follicular units.

Methods

A retrospective cross‐sectional study of 200 Chinese men and 200 Chinese women (30–69 years). Image analysis and manual counting methods were used to measure occipital located hair parameters from 6 × 8 mm shaved scalp photographs and plucked hair microscopy images.

Results

Of the five hair parameters, the number of hairs per follicular unit had the greatest (negative) correlation with age in both men and women. Men had a greater number of hairs and follicular units than women on average but had a greater decrease in the number of hairs per follicular unit with age, particularly for the loss of multi‐hair (3+) follicular units. The loss of hairs with age was significantly different to that expected by a random loss of hairs across follicular units and better described by a model of increased hair loss risk the greater number of hairs per follicular unit.

Conclusions

We have found evidence of hair loss preferentially occurring in multi‐hair follicular units, which was more pronounced in men. These data suggest that part of the reason scalp hair is more susceptible to hair loss than on other body sites is due to the greater presence of multi‐hair follicular units on the scalp.
Energy storage properties and transparency in (Ba0.6Sr0.4)1‐1.5xBixTi1‐x(Mg1/3Nb2/3)xO3 ceramics
Authors: Li Yuming , Bian Jianjiang
Published: February 2023

Fully densified (transparent) ceramic with small grain size is highly desired to improve the field breakdown strength (BDS) and its scattering. Sintering behavior, microstructural evolution, electric, dielectric, and energy storage properties of (Ba0.6Sr0.4)1‐1.5xBixTi1‐x(Mg1/3Nb2/3)xO3 (x = .04–.10) ceramics have been studied in this paper. Phase pure cubic perovskite is observed for the x = .04 composition. Nb‐rich tungsten bronze type and Ti‐rich barium titanate secondary phases are present in the x > .05 compositions. A multiphasic transparent ferroelectric ceramic with ∼74.2% (780 nm) transmittance and a high refractive index of ∼2.3 within the visible region could be successfully obtained for the x = .10 composition by traditional ceramic process. The x = .09 composition demonstrates good energy storage performance (recoverable energy density Wrec = 3.74J/cm3, efficiency η = 77% and BDS = 390kV/cm) with extremely low scattering in BDS, suggesting potential application in large sized energy storage capacitor.
Motivational pathways for farmer learning behaviour in the student‐to‐farmer university outreach
Authors: Kalule Stephen W. , Sseguya Haroon , Karubanga Gabriel , Ongeng Duncan
Published: February 2023

In recent times, calls for practical training of agricultural extension workers, who exhibit the right mix of competences for responsiveness to farmer learning needs, have intensified. This comes at the time when there is an increasingly growing desire for more community‐engaged African universities, and as such, making the integration of agricultural students into community outreach services a necessity. However, empirical evidence on whether student‐led outreach and training models adequately respond to the psychological learning needs of host farmers and subsequent motivation of these farmers for learning is lacking. This study uses a structural equation modelling technique on a sample of 283 farmers who had previously participated in the student‐to‐farmer outreach of Gulu University. Results reveal that satisfying farmer learning needs influences intrinsic motivation, formation of learning intentions and farmer learning behaviour. Intrinsic motivation mediates the relationship between satisfying farmer learning needs and the outcome learning behaviour. We conclude that satisfying farmer learning needs is a strong initiator of motivational pathways for farmer learning behaviour in the student‐to‐farmer university outreach. We call for more public financing of university outreach programmes so as to enable not only training for churning out graduates with the right competences of responsiveness to community needs but also fostering creative innovations involving both universities and communities.