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Aim: The aim of the study was to explore and understand the organizational culture of a workplace in terms of support and well‐being for staff experiencing perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms at work. Design: It is widely acknowledged that perimenopause and menopause symptoms are experienced by a large percentage of the female workforce. There is a lack of research into how nurses are supported through menopause (Cronin et al. Issues in Mental Health Nursing, 42, 2021, 541–548). The perimenopause and menopause transition can be a challenging time where many may require symptom management and support (RCN, The Menopause and Work: Guidance for RCN Representatives, 2020). This paper presents a case study research (CSR) approach to examine one healthcare organization. Methods: CSR design was used: A survey distributed to all staff employed, a review of the available documentation on menopause and interviews with managers from different levels of the organization. The COREQ consolidated criteria was used for reporting the qualitative research reported this study. Results: The case study generated both quantitative and qualitative data using surveys, interviews and documentation. Data from the organization (n = 6905) showed a majority female workforce of 81.9% with 40.6% aged between 41 and 55 years old, meaning a third of the organization working through perimenopause and menopause. Survey responses (n = 167) collected biographical and psychometric data on the prevalence of perimenopausal and menopausal symptoms. Seven managers were interviewed highlighting two themes: Access to support and culture of menopause and 13 documents from the organization on menopause were analysed for content. The study design permitted an iterative approach to data collection and providing an in‐depth understanding of the needs and support for those experiencing perimenopause and menopause. The findings help healthcare organizations to understand their workforce and take in to account the larger numbers of female employees particularly nurses with the need to provide person‐centred support mechanisms and an organizational approach for all employees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An interview with Irish journalist David Cronin and German activist and writer Annette Groth is presented. Cronin discusses Germany's lobbying efforts to enhance Israel's trade status and other ties with the European Union and the impact of the German-Israeli relations on European Union policy toward the Palestinians. Groth talks about the power of pro-Israel elements in the Bundestag.

Methyl‐coenzyme M reductase (MCR) is a multi‐subunit (α2β2γ2) enzyme responsible for methane formation via its unique F430 cofactor. The genes responsible for producing MCR (mcrA, mcrB and mcrG) are typically colocated with two other highly conserved genes mcrC and mcrD. We present here the high‐resolution crystal structure for McrD from a human gut methanogen Methanomassiliicoccus luminyensis strain B10. The structure reveals that McrD comprises a ferredoxin‐like domain assembled into an α + β barrel‐like dimer with conformational flexibility exhibited by a functional loop. The description of the M. luminyensis McrD crystal structure contributes to our understanding of this key conserved methanogen protein typically responsible for promoting MCR activity and the production of methane, a greenhouse gas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mock‐Walker simulations have the potential to play a key role in a tropical model hierarchy, bridging small‐scale Radiative‐Convective Equilibrium simulations and global models of tropical circulations. We demonstrate that mock‐Walker simulations transition from single‐ to double‐celled overturning circulations as mean Sea Surface Temperature (SST) is increased, with the transition occurring near 300 K. The transition is robust to domain geometry and microphysical scheme, and is favored by larger SST gradients. The transition is associated with the development of a mid‐tropospheric minimum in the radiative‐subsidence velocity over the cold pool of the simulations, and is likely reinforced by zonal moisture and temperature fluxes between the warm and cold pools. Several methods of suppressing the transition are investigated, but all set‐ups produce a double‐cell at sufficiently warm mean SSTs. The striking dynamical transition of mock‐Walker simulations dominates their response to warming, though its relevance for observed tropical climate change is unclear. Plain Language Summary: Untangling the coupled interactions between clouds and large‐scale atmospheric flows is one of the "Grand Challenges" of climate science. Large‐scale flows are the main control on the spatial distribution of cloud‐types in the tropics, but clouds in turn play a key role in setting the strengths and spatial structures of these flows. Here, we investigate "mock‐Walker" simulations as a potential idealized modeling set‐up for investigating the two‐way interactions between clouds and tropical circulations. Mock‐Walker simulations include the zonal sea‐surface temperature (SST) gradient needed to generate realistic tropical circulations, while using grid resolutions sufficient to partially resolve clouds. However, in this study we document a robust transition in the large‐scale flow in mock‐Walker simulations from a single overturning cell to two vertically‐stacked overturning cells (a double‐celled flow) as the mean SST is increased. This transition occurs for a mean SST close to the observed SSTs in the equatorial Pacific, and dominates the response of mock‐Walker simulations to warming. The transition is robust to domain geometry, microphysical scheme and to fixing the radiation. While we are unable to provide a complete explanation of the transition, it does seem to be associated with extreme dryness over the cold pools of the simulations. Key Points: Mock‐Walker simulations transition from single‐to a double‐celled circulation as the mean SST is increasedThis is associated with a mid‐tropospheric minimum in the cold pool radiative‐subsidence velocityElevated stability maxima cause transitions in mock‐Walker simulations with fixed radiative cooling and artificial moisture sources [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tephra preserved in sediments form useful isochronous marker layers, linking disparate geological, palaeoenvironmental and archaeological records. The application of tephrochronology is greatly enhanced through the detection of macroscopically invisible tephra (cryptotephra). Here, we identify two discrete cryptotephra in Samoan lake sediments, the first identification of cryptotephra in the region outside of New Zealand. Geochemical data suggest one ash layer is from a local Samoan source, providing the first data on an eruption of this age, adding to knowledge of the local volcanic record. The second has a distinctive rhyolitic glass composition, which matches either that of Raoul Island in the Kermadec Arc (1800 km south of Samoa), or two currently submarine volcanoes in the Tongan Arc, 'Volcano F' and Lateiki/Metis Shoal (550 and 700 km south of Samoa, respectively). In all possible source cases, this points to a regionally significant eruption of a Kermadec–Tongan volcano at ca. 10 000 a bp. The study marks the first step in the establishment of a South Pacific tephra framework that can be used to answer questions about the synchronicity of changes in hydroclimate, vegetation and early Polynesian migration patterns, as well as providing more information on the volcanic history of Pacific island volcanoes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to determine the acute effects of wearable resistance forearm (WRf) loading versus shank (WRs) loading on change of direction (COD) performance in netball athletes. Ten elite female netball athletes (age: 24.9 ± 5.0 years, height: 180.1 ± 6.5 cm, weight: 81.3 ± 15.0 kg) participated in this within‐subject repeated measures study under three conditions: (1) no load (NL), (2) WRs and (3) WRf, both wearable resistance conditions loaded with 1% body mass on each limb. Athletes performed a modified 5‐0‐5 COD test with additional timing splits and inertial measurement units placed in their shoes. Total time was significantly longer for both WR conditions with a small effect compared to NL (p < 0.05, ES = 0.22–0.25). The greatest differences between WRs and WRf as compared to NL were in the acceleration phase with moderate effect sizes (0–2 m) (p < 0.05, ES = −0.67–0.79). Both loading conditions had moderate to large significant effects on peak deceleration (ES = 0.56–0.82) and maximum speed (ES = −0.50–0.60). No significant differences were observed between WR conditions. It appeared that WRs and WRs acutely affected COD performance and therefore might provide a potential training stimulus to elicit positive COD performance adaptations if used over an extended period of time. The choice of overload depended on the musculature that needed training. Highlights: Both WRs and WRf significantly affected the total time and acceleration as compared to no load during a modified 5‐0‐5 COD test.Only WRs loading affected the deceleration split time compared to NL and WRf.No significant differences were observed during the COD phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The discovery of new electroactive materials is slow due to the large combinatorial chemical space of possible experiments. Efficient exploration of redox‐active chemical space requires a machine learning assisted robotic platform with real‐time feedback. Here, we developed a closed‐loop robotic platform which is capable of synthesis and electrochemical characterisation controlled using a probabilistic algorithm. This was used to probe the redox behaviour of different polyoxometalates (POMs) precursors and explore the formation of redox‐active coordination complexes. The system can run accurate analytical electrochemical measurements whilst maintaining the performance and accuracy of both the working and reference electrodes. The platform successfully ran and analysed 336 coordination chemistry reactions by performing ca. 2500 cyclic voltammetry (CV) scans for analysis and electrode cleaning. Overall, the platform carried out over 9900 operations in 350 hours at a rate of 28 operations per hour, and we identified 24 complex solutions which showed significantly different redox activity. Experiments were performed using a universal chemical synthesis language (χDL) with variable inputs. The platform was used autonomously to investigate a range of POM precursor materials demonstrating 45 % increase in capacitance. The experiments ran for 36 hours with more than 6400 operations during which we analysed 200 POM precursor solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Premise: To genetically discriminate subspecies of the common reed (Phragmites australis), we developed real‐time quantitative (qPCR) assays for identifying P. australis subsp. americanus, P. australis subsp. australis, and P. australis subsp. berlandieri. Methods and Results: Utilizing study‐generated chloroplast DNA sequences, we developed three novel qPCR assays. Assays were verified on individuals of each subspecies and against two non‐target species, Arundo donax and Phalaris arundinacea. One assay amplifies only P. australis subsp. americanus, one amplifies P. australis subsp. australis and/or P. australis subsp. berlandieri, and one amplifies P. australis subsp. americanus and/or P. australis subsp. australis. This protocol enhances currently available rapid identification methods by providing genetic discrimination of all three subspecies. Conclusions: The newly developed assays were validated using P. australis samples from across the United States. Application of these assays outside of this geographic range should be preceded by additional testing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Unfractionated heparin (UFH) is the anticoagulant of choice for most maintenance hemodialysis units in the United States. Low molecular weight heparin (LMWH) is the norm in Western Europe, but is not approved for this indication in the United States. UFH is likely to remain the agent of choice in the United States because of its relative ease of use, safety, and low cost. Coating tubing and dialyzers with heparin is now possible, but systemic anticoagulation with heparin is usually still required. The additional cost of this innovation does not yet justify its use. Side effects of both UFH and LMWH include heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, hypertriglyceridemia, and hyperkalemia. It is uncertain whether osteoporosis is an important side effect, as vitamin D deficiency, secondary hyperparathyroidism, age, and debility are confounding factors. When UFH poses a risk or its use is contraindicated, e.g., after development of heparin-induced thrombocytopenia, the use of direct thrombin inhibitors, regional citrate anticoagulation, citrate dialysate, and heparin-free dialysis may be appropriate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Forest loss and overhunting are eroding African tropical biodiversity and threatening local human food security, livelihoods, and health. Emblematic of this ecological crisis is Africa's most endangered group of monkeys, the red colobus (genus Piliocolobus). All 17 species, found in forests from Senegal in the west to the Zanzibar archipelago in the east, are threatened with extinction. Red colobus are among the most vulnerable mammals to gun hunting, typically disappearing from heavily hunted forests before most other large‐bodied animals. Despite their conservation status, they are rarely a focus of conservation attention and continue to be understudied. However, red colobus can act as critical barometers of forest health and serve as flagships for catalyzing broader African tropical forest conservation efforts. We offer a plan for conservation of red colobus and their habitats and discuss conservation and policy implications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate associations of the Fetal Pillow® with maternal and neonatal morbidity. Design: Retrospective cohort. Setting: Two tertiary maternity units, New Zealand. Population or Sample: Full dilatation singleton, term, cephalic caesarean section, with three comparisons: at Unit A (1) before versus after introduction of the Fetal Pillow® (1 Jaunary 2016–31 October 2021); (2) with versus without the Fetal Pillow® after introduction (27 July 2017–31 October 2021); and (3) between Unit A and Unit B during the same time period (1 January 2019–31 October 2021). The Fetal Pillow® is unavailable at Unit B. Methods: Cases were ascertained and clinical data were extracted from electronic clinical databases and records. Outcome data were adjusted and presented as adjusted odds ratios (aOR) with 95% CI. Main Outcome Measures: Primary outcome "any" uterine incision extension; secondary outcomes included major extension (into adjacent structures), and a composite neonatal outcome. Results: In all, 1703 caesareans were included; 375 with the device and 1328 without. Uterine incision extension rates were: at Unit A before versus after introduction: 26.8% versus 24.8% (aOR 0.88, 95% CI 0.65–1.19); at Unit A with the Fetal Pillow® versus without: 26.1% versus 23.8% (aOR 1.14, 95% CI 0.83–1.57); and at Unit A versus Unit B: 24.2% versus 29.2% (aOR 0.73, 95% CI 0.54–0.99). No differences were found in major extensions, or neonatal composite outcome. Conclusions: Despite the relatively large size of this study, it could not rule out either a positive or a negative association between use of the Fetal Pillow® and uterine extensions, major uterine incision extensions, and neonatal morbidity. Randomised controlled trial evidence is required to assess efficacy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Soil microorganisms are pivotal in the global carbon cycle, but the viruses that affect them and their impact on ecosystems are less understood. In this study, we explored the diversity, dynamics, and ecology of soil viruses through 379 metagenomes collected annually from 2010 to 2017. These samples spanned the seasonally thawed active layer of a permafrost thaw gradient, which included palsa, bog, and fen habitats. We identified 5051 virus operational taxonomic units (vOTUs), doubling the known viruses for this site. These vOTUs were largely ephemeral within habitats, suggesting a turnover at the vOTU level from year to year. While the diversity varied by thaw stage and depth‐related patterns were specific to each habitat, the virus communities did not significantly change over time. The abundance ratios of virus to host at the phylum level did not show consistent trends across the thaw gradient, depth, or time. To assess potential ecosystem impacts, we predicted hosts in silico and found viruses linked to microbial lineages involved in the carbon cycle, such as methanotrophy and methanogenesis. This included the identification of viruses of Candidatus Methanoflorens, a significant global methane contributor. We also detected a variety of potential auxiliary metabolic genes, including 24 carbon‐degrading glycoside hydrolases, six of which are uniquely terrestrial. In conclusion, these long‐term observations enhance our understanding of soil viruses in the context of climate‐relevant processes and provide opportunities to explore their role in terrestrial carbon cycling. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Complete avoidance of milk is the usual management for IgE‐mediated cow's milk protein allergy (CMPA). A baked milk ladder is a method of dietary advancement therapy in IgE‐mediated CMPA in Ireland, while in Spain, avoidance of milk awaiting natural tolerance acquisition through an oral food challenge (OFC) is employed. The aim of this study was to evaluate the use of dietary advancement therapy using a milk ladder compared with complete avoidance of milk for managing IgE‐mediated CMPA. Methods: This is a retrospective chart review of 371 pediatric patients from the population who have been treated for IgE‐mediated CMPA between 2011 and 2020, with the milk ladder (Ireland) or complete avoidance followed by an OFC (Spain). The main outcome was the introduction of cow's milk. Results: Milk ladder patients were 3.67 times more likely to succeed in comparison with milk avoidance (p <.001). Anaphylaxis during the treatment period occurred in 34 patients in the milk avoidance groups, while three patients in the milk ladder group experienced anaphylaxis due to accidental exposure to milk (p <.001). Failure to complete treatment was associated with a higher skin prick test in the milk avoidance group and a raised specific IgE in the milk ladder group. Conclusion: This is the first study that compares outcomes of dietary advancement therapy to complete avoidance for CMPA management, demonstrating that cow's milk can be successfully and safely reintroduced using dietary advancement therapy using a milk ladder. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: Within the intensively‐studied, well‐documented latitudinal diversity gradient, the deep‐sea biodiversity of the present‐day Norwegian Sea stands out with its notably low diversity, constituting a steep latitudinal diversity gradient in the North Atlantic. The reason behind this has long been a topic of debate and speculation. Most prominently, it is explained by the deep‐sea glacial disturbance hypothesis, which states that harsh environmental glacial conditions negatively impacted Norwegian Sea diversities, which have not yet fully recovered. Our aim is to empirically test this hypothesis. Specific research questions are: (1) Has deep‐sea biodiversity been lower during glacials than during interglacials? (2) Was there any faunal shift at the Mid‐Brunhes Event (MBE) when the mode of glacial–interglacial climatic change was altered? Location: Norwegian Sea, deep sea (1819–2800 m), coring sites MD992277, PS1243, and M23352. Time period: 620.7–1.4 ka (Middle Pleistocene–Late Holocene). Taxa studied: Ostracoda (Crustacea). Methods: We empirically test the deep‐sea glacial disturbance hypothesis by investigating whether diversity in glacial periods is consistently lower than diversity in interglacial periods. Additionally, we apply comparative analyses to determine a potential faunal shift at the MBE, a Pleistocene event describing a fundamental shift in global climate. Results: The deep Norwegian Sea diversity was not lower during glacial periods compared to interglacial periods. Holocene diversity was exceedingly lower than that of the last glacial period. Faunal composition changed substantially between pre‐ and post‐MBE. Main conclusions: These results reject the glacial disturbance hypothesis, since the low glacial diversity is the important precondition here. The present‐day‐style deep Norwegian Sea ecosystem was established by the MBE, more specifically by MBE‐induced changes in global climate, which has led to more dynamic post‐MBE conditions. In a broader context, this implies that the MBE has played an important role in the establishment of the modern polar deep‐sea ecosystem and biodiversity in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate early structural and mechanical predictors of plantarflexor muscle strength and the magnitude of Achilles tendon (AT) nonuniform displacement at 6 and 12 months after AT rupture. Methods: Thirty‐five participants (28 males and 7 females; mean ± SD age 41.7 ± 11.1 years) were assessed for isometric plantarflexion maximal voluntary contraction (MVC) and AT nonuniformity at 6 and 12 months after rupture. Structural and mechanical AT and plantarflexor muscle properties were measured at 2 months. Limb asymmetry index (LSI) was calculated for all variables. Multiple linear regression was used with the 6 and 12 month MVC LSI and 12 month AT nonuniformity LSI as dependent variables and AT and plantarflexor muscle properties at 2 months as independent variables. The level of pre‐ and post‐injury sports participation was inquired using Tegner score at 2 and 12 months (scale 0–10, 10 = best possible score). Subjective perception of recovery was assessed with Achilles tendon total rupture score (ATRS) at 12 months (scale 0–100, 100=best possible score). Results: Achilles tendon resting angle (ATRA) symmetry at 2 months predicted MVC symmetry at 6 and 12 months after rupture (β = 2.530, 95% CI 1.041–4.018, adjusted R2 = 0.416, p = 0.002; β = 1.659, 95% CI 0.330–2.988, adjusted R2 = 0.418, p = 0.016, respectively). At 12 months, participants had recovered their pre‐injury level of sports participation (Tegner 6 ± 2 points). The median (IQR) ATRS score was 92 (7) points at 12 months. Conclusion: Greater asymmetry of ATRA in the early recovery phase may be a predictor of plantarflexor muscle strength deficits up to 1 year after rupture. Trial Registration: This research is a part of "nonoperative treatment of Achilles tendon rupture in Central Finland: a prospective cohort study" that has been registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03704532) [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Movement behavior is central to understanding species distributions, population dynamics and coexistence with other species. Although the relationship between conspecific density and emigration has been well studied, little attention has been paid to how interspecific competitor density affects another species' movement behavior. We conducted releases of two species of competing Tribolium flour beetles at different densities, alone and together in homogeneous microcosms, and tested whether their recaptures‐with‐distance were well described by a random‐diffusion model. We also determined whether mean displacement distances varied with the release density of conspecific and heterospecific beetles. A diffusion model provided a good fit to the redistribution of T. castaneum and T. confusum at all release densities, explaining an average of >60% of the variation in recaptures. For both species, mean displacement (directly proportional to the diffusion rate) exhibited a humped‐shaped relationship with conspecific density. Finally, we found that both species of beetle impacted the within‐patch movement rates of the other species, but the effect depended on density. For T. castaneum in the highest density treatment, the addition of equal numbers of T. castaneum or T. confusum had the same effect, with mean displacements reduced by approximately one half. The same result occurred for T. confusum released at an intermediate density. In both cases, it was total beetle abundance, not species identity that mattered to mean displacement. We suggest that displacement or diffusion rates that exhibit a nonlinear relationship with density or depend on the presence or abundance of interacting species should be considered when attempting to predict the spatial spread of populations or scaling up to heterogeneous landscapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predicting the spatiotemporal distribution of rainfall remains a key challenge in Tropical Meteorology, partly due to an incomplete understanding of the effects of different environmental factors on atmospheric convection. In this work, we use numerical simulations of tropical ocean domains to study how rainfall responds to imposed localized thermal and mechanical forcings to the atmosphere. We use the Normalized Gross Moist Stability—NGMS—to quantify the net precipitation response associated with a given net atmospheric heating. We find that NGMS values differ considerably for different forcings, but show that the relationship between precipitation and column relative humidity collapses along a universal curve across all of them. We also show that the contributions from mean vertical advection of moist and dry static energy only approximate the NGMS well at scales larger than a couple hundred kilometers, indicating that general horizontal mixing processes are not negligible at smaller scales. Plain Language Summary: Predicting where rain tends to occur in tropical areas is challenging. In this work, we simulate a small area of atmosphere over a tropical ocean to study how rainfall changes when we alter the surface temperature, the atmospheric heating rate at different heights, and the pressure gradients that drive the winds near the surface. We find that such alterations lead to self‐consistent but different relationships between the amount of rainfall produced and the net heating of the atmosphere. We show that the spatial extent of the alteration affects how well this relationship can be inferred from horizontally averaged atmospheric properties. In contrast, we find that the relationship between rainfall and the average relative humidity in the atmosphere remains the same across all types of environmental alterations. Key Points: Convective rainfall triggered by different thermodynamic and mechanical forcings can exhibit markedly different Gross Moist StabilitiesMechanically induced, low‐level convergence is an effective mechanism of net precipitation enhancementAll forcing types collapse onto the same curve relating column relative humidity and rainfall [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Reproductive strategies are defined by a combination of behavioural, morphological, and life‐history traits. Reproductive investment and offspring propagule size are two key traits defining reproductive strategies. While a substantial amount of work has been devoted to understanding the independent fitness effects of each of these traits, it remains unclear how coevolution between them ultimately affects the evolution of reproductive strategies, and how this might influence the relationship between dispersal and environmental factors. In this study we explore how the evolution of reproductive strategies defined by these two coevolving traits is influenced by resource availability and spatial structuring of the environment using a simulation model. We find three possible equilibrium strategies across all scenarios: a competitor strategy with high reproductive investment (producing large propagules which disperse short distances), and two coloniser strategies differing in reproductive investment (both producing small propagules which disperse long distances). The possible equilibrium strategies for each scenario depended on starting conditions, spatial structure and resource availability. Evolutionary transitions between these equilibrium strategies were more likely in heterogeneous than homogeneous landscapes and at higher resource levels. Transition from coloniser strategy to competitor strategy was usually a two‐step process, with changes in propagule size following initial evolution in investment. This highlights how the interaction between the two trait axes affects the evolution of reproductive strategies, particularly where fitness valleys preclude the simultaneous evolution of traits. Our results highlight the need to incorporate trait coevolution into evolutionary models to help develop a more integrative understanding of the structure of natural populations and how the interaction between traits constrains or hinders evolutionary processes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Promoting human contact with wildlife can be harmful to animal conservation and welfare by exposing animals to unsafe situations and driving demand for wildlife tourism and exotic pets. Conservationists and researchers justifiably use social media to raise awareness, but professionals posting pictures of themselves with animals can have unintended negative consequences for conservation. Though the International Union for Conservation of Nature Best Practice Guidelines for Responsible Images of Non‐Human Primates suggests researchers and animal professionals provide context in captions of images of humans interacting with primates, there is little research investigating whether this approach is effective. We investigated whether informative captions affect viewers' desires to have primates as pets and attitudes toward wildlife conservation. Using 4 mock Instagram posts depicting human−gorilla and human−slender loris interactions, we surveyed 2977 respondents to assess the effect of captions on viewers' perceptions of the images and primate conservation. Likert scale response data were analyzed with ordered probit regression models. Captions clearly contextualizing an image as research resulted in a significantly higher agreement that posts depicted wildlife research (gorilla β = 0.28 [SE 0.06], p < 0.001; loris β = 0.18 [0.06], p = 0.002), but such captions resulted in no significant difference in responses regarding viewers' desires to own primates as pets or questions regarding the primates' conservation statuses. Although most participants agreed the primates were endangered, more than 56% and 59%, respectively, stated they would have a gorilla or loris as a pet, that they would make good pets, or both, further supporting the conclusion that captions do not minimize harmful impacts of images of human−primate interactions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: This Phase I study evaluated the safety and early efficacy of an aldosterone synthase inhibitor (BI 690517) in people with diabetes and albuminuric chronic kidney disease. Methods: Double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study (NCT03165240) at 40 sites across Europe. Eligible participants [estimated glomerular filtration rate ≥20 and <75 ml/min/1.73 m2; urine albumin/creatinine ratio (UACR) ≥200 and <3500 mg/g] were randomized 6:1 to receive once‐daily oral BI 690517 3, 10 or 40 mg, or eplerenone 25‐50 mg, or placebo, for 28 days. The primary endpoint was the proportion of participants with drug‐related adverse events (AEs). Secondary endpoints included changes from baseline in the UACR. Results: Fifty‐eight participants were randomized and treated from 27 November 2017 to 16 April 2020 (BI 690517: 3 mg, n = 18; 10 mg, n = 13; 40 mg, n = 14; eplerenone, n = 4; placebo, n = 9) for 28 days. Eight (13.8%) participants experienced drug‐related AEs [BI 690517: 3 mg (two of 18); 10 mg (four of 13); 40 mg (two of 14)], most frequently constipation [10 mg (one of 13); 40 mg (one of 14)] and hyperkalaemia [3 mg (one of 18); 10 mg (one of 13)]. Most AEs were mild to moderate; one participant experienced severe hyperkalaemia (serum potassium 6.9 mmol/L; BI 690517 10 mg). UACR responses [≥20% decrease from baseline (first morning void urine) after 28 days] were observed for 80.0% receiving BI 690517 40 mg (eight of 10) versus 37.5% receiving placebo (three of eight). Aldosterone levels were suppressed by BI 690517, but not eplerenone or placebo. Conclusions: BI 690517 was generally well tolerated, reduced plasma aldosterone and may decrease albuminuria in participants with diabetes and albuminuric chronic kidney disease. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Eye loss has been a long‐standing interest in evolutionary biology. Many organisms that inhabit environments without light penetration, for example the deep sea, exhibit eye loss and thus become blind. However, water‐depth distribution of eyes in marine organisms is poorly understood. Ostracods are widely distributed crustaceans, and many sighted marine ostracods have eye tubercles (lenses) on their shells. Since eye tubercles are visible on the shells illustrated in much literature, it is easy to determine their presence or absence via a literature survey. Here, we used a large Arctic‐wide ostracod census dataset (Arctic Ostracode Database) to calculate the eye index (the percentage of species with eyes), and compare them with water depth and light availability. As water depth increases, eye index values decrease and become constantly zero in water deeper than 1000 m. Similar decline of sighted species with increasing depth is also known in isopods and amphipods, suggesting that it may be common in other crustaceans and perhaps in deep‐sea organisms in general. We also show that eye index values increase as light availability increases. This study is the first to quantify how distributions of sighted and blind species change with light availability, giving baseline information on vision in the deep sea. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In the past decade, two large marine heatwaves (MHWs) formed in the northeast Pacific near Ocean Station Papa (OSP), one of the oldest oceanic time series stations. Physical, biogeochemical, and biological parameters observed at OSP from 2013 to 2020 are used to assess ocean response and potential impacts on marine life from the 2019 northeast Pacific MHW. The 2019 MHW reached peak surface and subsurface temperature anomalies in the summertime and had both coastal, impacting fisheries, and offshore consequences that could potentially affect multiple trophic levels in the Gulf of Alaska. In the Gulf of Alaska, the 2019 MHW was preceded by calm and stratified upper ocean conditions, which preconditioned the enhanced surface warming in late spring and early summer. The MHW coincided with lower dissolved inorganic carbon and higher pH of surface waters relative to the 2013–2020 period. A spike in the summertime chlorophyll followed by a decrease in surface macronutrients suggests increased productivity in the well‐lit stratified upper ocean during summer 2019. More blue whale calls were recorded at OSP in 2019 compared to the prior year. This study shows how the utility of long‐term, continuous oceanographic data sets and analysis with an interdisciplinary lens is necessary to understand the potential impact of MHWs on marine ecosystems. Plain Language Summary: Marine heatwaves (MHWs) are warmer than normal surface ocean temperature events. In 2019, a MHW occurred in the northeastern Pacific, and we utilized Ocean Station Papa (OSP), a multidisciplinary observing system in the Gulf of Alaska, to present the physical, biogeochemical, and biological impacts. Prior to reaching the MHW's warmest surface temperatures, the upper ocean exhibited a calm and stratified state, which facilitated the occurrence of exceptionally high sea surface temperatures. During the MHW, warm water was present well below the surface and extended throughout the water column. Prior to the MHW's warmest surface temperatures, we also observed indications of increased primary productivity through observed spikes in chlorophyll levels and reductions in nutrient concentrations. Due to data limitations, the connection between this heightened primary productivity and higher trophic levels remains unclear. Our study demonstrates the necessity of adopting holistic perspectives when seeking to understand the complexities of MHWs. Key Points: The 2019 northeastern Pacific marine heatwave had various offshore physical, biogeochemical, and biological impactsTemperature anomalies associated with the 2019 marine heatwave were observed well below the mixed layer, indicating a subsurface structure throughout the water columnLong‐term multidisciplinary observing systems are necessary to provide a holistic view of extreme events [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Spinal cord ischemia and hypoxia can be caused by compression, injury, and vascular alterations. Measuring ischemia and hypoxia directly in the spinal cord noninvasively remains challenging. Ischemia and hypoxia alter tissue pH, providing a physiologic parameter that may be more directly related to tissue viability. Chemical exchange saturation transfer (CEST) is an MRI contrast mechanism that can be made sensitive to pH. More specifically, amine/amide concentration independent detection (AACID) is a recently developed endogenous CEST contrast that has demonstrated sensitivity to intracellular pH at 9.4 T. The goal of this study was to evaluate the reproducibility of AACID CEST measurements at different levels of the healthy cervical spinal cord at 3.0 T incorporating B1 correction. Using a 3.0 T MRI scanner, two 3D CEST scans (saturation pulse train followed by a 3D snapshot gradient‐echo readout) were performed on 12 healthy subjects approximately 10 days apart, with the CEST volume centered at the C4 level for all subjects. Scan–rescan reproducibility was evaluated by examining between and within‐subject coefficients of variation (CVs) and absolute AACID value differences. The C4 level of the spinal cord demonstrated the lowest within‐subject CVs (4.1%–4.3%), between‐subject CVs (5.6%–6.3%), and absolute AACID percent difference (5.8–6.1%). The B1 correction scheme significantly improved reproducibility (adjusted p‐value = 0.002) compared with the noncorrected data, suggesting that implementing B1 corrections in the spinal cord is beneficial. It was concluded that pH‐weighted AACID measurements, incorporating B1‐inhomogeneity correction, were reproducible within subjects along the healthy cervical spinal cord and that optimal image quality was achieved at the center of the 3D CEST volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It has long been thought that abiogenesis requires a process of selection and evolution at the molecular level, but this process is hard to explore experimentally. One solution could be the use of automation in experiments which could allow for traceability and the ability to explore a larger reaction space. We report a fully programmable and automated platform to explore the reactions of amino acids in the presence of mineral environments. The robotic system is based upon the Chemputer system which has well defined modules, software, and a chemical programming language to orchestrate the chemical processes, including analysis. The reaction mixtures were analysed with tandem mass spectrometry and a peptide sequencing algorithm. Each experiment was screened for 1,398,100 possible unique sequences, and more than 550 specifically defined sequences were confirmed experimentally. This work aimed to develop a new understanding of selection in repeated cycles of polymerisation reactions to explore the emergence of well‐defined amino acid sequences. We found that the outcome of oligomerisation was significantly influenced by the presence of different minerals, and that a serpentine environment selects glycine and phenylalanine rich fragments that enable the formation of longer oligomers with well‐defined sequences as a function of cycle number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Aims Materials and Methods Results Conclusions There is anecdotal evidence of Fetal Pillow® use, but no formal local information on clinician practices and perspectives.To assess obstetrician use of the Fetal Pillow®, knowledge of relevant research, and interest in a proposed randomised controlled trial in Aotearoa New Zealand.Anonymous cross‐sectional survey of practising obstetricians and obstetric trainees in Aotearoa New Zealand distributed by the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists.Of 136 respondents (69% specialists and 31% trainees), 130 had heard of the Fetal Pillow® device, and 108 had used it at least once (43% more than ten times). The device was available in 17/21 units represented. The 108 users of the device reported this was most commonly on collegial advice (63%) or after personal experience of a difficult delivery (33%) and most (80%) believed it reduced maternal morbidity. Only around one‐third of the 130 respondents who had heard of the device agreed there was adequate research demonstrating its efficacy for maternal (36%) and neonatal (30%) morbidity. The majority reported they would change practice in response to a randomised trial, although they were more likely to start use (81% of current non‐users) than stop (53% of users). Most (70%) respondents agreed they would encourage patients to participate in a randomised trial.The Fetal Pillow® is available in most maternity units in Aotearoa New Zealand. The majority of obstetric clinicians believe it reduces maternal morbidity, while acknowledging the lack of scientific evidence. Most would support a randomised trial. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Self‐report of motor and non‐motor symptoms is integral to understanding daily challenges of persons with Parkinson's disease (PwPD). Care partners are often asked to serve as informants regarding symptom severity, raising the question of concordance with PwPD self‐reports, especially regarding internalized (not outwardly visible) symptoms. Objectives: Concordance between PwPD and informant ratings of motor and non‐motor symptoms was evaluated across multiple domains. Methods: In 60 PwPD‐informant pairs, we compared ratings on 11 online self‐report measures comprising 33 total scores, 2/3 of which represented purely internalized symptoms. For discordant scores, multiple regression analyses were used to examine demographic/clinical predictors. Results: Though concordant on 85% of measures, PwPD endorsed more non‐motor symptoms, bodily discomfort, stigma, and motor symptoms than informants. For PwPD, younger age, greater disease severity, and female gender predicted discordance. Conclusions: Discordance between PwPD and informants on measures assessing symptoms that cannot be outwardly observed may require targeted education. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Asthma is characterized by preventable morbidity, cost, and inequity. We sought to build an Asthma Learning Health System (ALHS) to coordinate regional pediatric asthma improvement activities. Methods: We generated quantitative and qualitative insights pertinent to a better, more equitable care delivery system. We used electronic health record data to calculate asthma hospitalization rates for youth in our region. We completed an "environmental scan" to catalog the breadth of asthma-related efforts occurring in our children's hospital and across the region. We supplemented the scan with grouplevel assessments and focus groups with parents, clinicians, and community partners. We used insights from this descriptive epidemiology to inform the definition of shared aims, drivers, measures, and prototype interventions. Results: Greater Cincinnati's youth are hospitalized for asthma at a rate three times greater than the U.S. average. Black youth are hospitalized at a rate five times greater than non-Black youth. Certain neighborhoods bear the disproportionate burden of asthma morbidity. Across Cincinnati, there are many asthma-relevant activities that seek to confront this morbidity; however, efforts are largely disconnected. Qualitative insights highlighted the importance of cross-sector coordination, evidence-based acute and preventive care, healthy homes and neighborhoods, and accountability. These insights also led to a shared, regional aim: to equitably reduce asthma-related hospitalizations. Early interventions have included population-level pattern recognition, multidisciplinary asthma action huddles, and enhanced social needs screening and response. Conclusion: Learning health system methods are uniquely suited to asthma's complexity. Our nascent ALHS provides a scaffold atop which we can pursue better, more equitable regional asthma outcomes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide new approaches to examining the returns to college majors and institutional selectivity. Using unique resume data, we devise new groupings of majors and use these to construct five measures that characterize majors. Applying these measures to the National Survey of College Graduates, we find that majors that lead to jobs that are math‐intensive or writing‐intensive have higher earnings and also a higher return to selectivity. Majors that are occupationally specific also have higher earnings but have a lower return to institutional selectivity. We find that the value of selectivity relative to major increases as selectivity rises. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Telehealth is an emerging approach that uses technology to provide healthcare remotely. Recent publications have outlined the importance of supporting the transition to self‐management of adolescents with allergic conditions. However, no synthesis of the evidence base on the use and impact of telehealth interventions for this purpose has been conducted to date. This review achieves these aims, in addition to exploring the language use surrounding these interventions, and their implementation. Four databases were searched systematically. References were independently screened by two reviewers. Methodological quality was assessed using the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool. A narrative synthesis was undertaken. Eighteen articles were included, reporting on 15 telehealth interventions. A total of 86% targeted adolescents with asthma. Mobile applications were the most common telehealth modality used, followed by video‐conferencing, web‐based, virtual reality and artificial intelligence. Five intervention content categories were identified; educational, monitoring, behavioural, psychosocial and healthcare navigational. Peer and/or healthcare professional interaction, gamification and tailoring may increase engagement. The studies showed positive effects of the interventions or no difference from active controls, in self‐management outcomes such as knowledge, health outcomes such as quality‐of‐life, and economic outcomes such as healthcare utilization. The most common implementation outcomes reported were acceptability, appropriateness, feasibility and fidelity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the decade to 1999 in New Zealand, schools experienced more than doubling of the rates of suspension and exclusion. The higher suspension rates of Maori, males and in low decile schools were of particular concern. The Ministry of Education enacted a variety of responses to this situation, including encouraging the use of restorative conferencing in schools. This article builds on learning from the Restorative Conferencing in Schools Trial and shows how the process of a conversation can be productive of more and less peaceable relationships. It is argued that school communities are uniquely placed in civic life, and that it is worthwhile considering restorative conferencing and restorative practices more generally in relation to their behaviour management and disciplinary functions. Restorative practices are advanced from a social constructionist position, which is a very different philosophy from the philosophy of punishment and judgement that dominates in many schools. Copyright © 2004 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Maternal perception of fetal movements during pregnancy are reassuring; however, the perception of a reduction in movements are concerning to women and known to be associated with increased odds of late stillbirth. Prior to full term, little evidence exists to provide guidelines on how to proceed unless there is an immediate risk to the fetus. Increased strength of movement is the most commonly reported perception of women through to full term, but perception of movement is also hypothesized to be influenced by fetal size. The study aimed to assess the pattern of maternal perception of strength and frequency of fetal movement by gestation and customized birthweight quartile in ongoing pregnancies. A further aim was to assess the association of stillbirth to perception of fetal movements stratified by customized birthweight quartile. Material and methods: This analysis was an individual participant data meta‐analyses of five case–control studies investigating factors associated with stillbirth. The dataset included 851 cases of women with late stillbirth (>28 weeks' gestation) and 2257 women with ongoing pregnancies who then had a liveborn infant. Results: The frequency of prioritized fetal movement from 28 weeks' gestation showed a similar pattern for each quartile of birthweight with increased strength being the predominant perception of fetal movement through to full term. The odds of stillbirth associated with reduced fetal movements was increased in all quartiles of customized birthweight centiles but was notably greater in babies in the lowest two quartiles (Q1: adjusted OR: 9.34, 95% CI: 5.43, 16.06 and Q2: adjusted OR: 6.11, 95% CI: 3.11, 11.99). The decreased odds associated with increased strength of movement was present for all customized birthweight quartiles (adjusted OR range: 0.25–0.56). Conclusions: Increased strength of fetal movements in late pregnancy is a positive finding irrespective of fetal size. However, reduced fetal movements are associated with stillbirth, and more so when the fetus is small. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and Aims: There is a need for high utility and portability, and cost‐effective technologies that are suitable for assessing dual‐task gait after experiencing a concussion. Current technologies utilized such as 3D motion capture and force plates are too complex and expensive for most practitioners. The aim of this study was to quantify the variability of dual‐task walking gait parameters using in‐shoe inertial sensors in nonconcussed individuals. Methods: This was a randomized within‐subject repeated measures design conducted within a sports laboratory. Twenty healthy, uninjured, nonconcussed participants were recruited for this study. Gait variables of interest were measured across three 2‐min continuous walking protocols (12 m, 30 m, 1 min out and back) while performing a cognitive task of counting backward in sevens from a randomly generated number between 300 and 500. Testing was completed over three occasions separated by 7 days, for a total of nine walking trials. Participants completed the testing protocols in a randomized, individual order. The primary outcome was to determine the variability of dual‐task walking gait parameters using in‐shoe inertial sensors in nonconcussed individuals across three protocols. Results: Three to four participants were allocated to each randomized protocol order. Regarding the absolute consistency (coefficient of variation [CV]) between testing occasions, no gait measure was found to have variability above 6.5%. Relative consistency (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]) was acceptable (>0.70) in 95% of the variables of interest, with only three variables < 0.70. Similar variability was found across the three testing protocols. Conclusion: In‐shoe inertial sensors provide a viable option for monitoring gait parameters. This technology is also reliable across different testing distances, thus offering various testing options for practitioners. Further research needs to be conducted to examine the variability with concussed subjects. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article announces that Blaise Cronin has received the Award of Merit from the American Society for Information Science and Technology.

The aim of this study was to investigate the load effects of thigh attached wearable resistance (WR) on linear and angular kinematics and linear kinetics during sprint-running. Fourteen recreational active subjects performed a series of maximal sprints with and without WR of 1%, 2%, and 3% body mass (BM) in a randomised order. Sprints were performed on a non-motorised treadmill that collected velocity, and linear step kinematics and kinetics. Angular kinematics of the thigh were collected from an inertial measurement unit attached to the left thigh. Trivial decreases were found in peak velocity with all WR loads (−0.9 to −.2.4%, effect size [ES] 0.09–0.17, p >.05). The WR conditions resulted in significantly decreased average step frequency (−2.0% to −3.0%, ES = 0.35–0.44, p <.05) with loads of ≥2% BM, whereas average step length was statistically unchanged (1.9–2.8%, ES = 0.20–0.33). Average angular displacement was significantly decreased (−7.0% to −10.3%, ES = 0.88–1.10, p = 0.00–0.03) with loads of ≥2% BM. Average angular flexion velocity (−10.2%, ES = 1.07, p =.02) and extension velocity (−12.0%, ES = 0.85, p =.01) were significantly decreased with 3% BM. Trivial to small ES changes (p >.05) were found in the linear kinetic measures of interest. Thigh WR provides a sprint-specific rotational form of resistance resulting in greater changes to angular kinematics than linear properties of sprint-running. For practitioners who wish to target thigh angular kinematics and step frequency without decreasing step length, thigh WR of ≥2% BM offers a sprint-specific resistance training tool. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Depressive symptoms are prevalent in individuals living with sickle cell disease (SCD) and may exacerbate pain. This study examines whether higher depressive symptoms are associated with pain outcomes, pain catastrophizing, interference and potential opioid misuse in a large cohort of adults with SCD. The study utilized baseline data from the 'CaRISMA' trial, which involved 357 SCD adults with chronic pain. Baseline assessments included pain intensity, daily mood, the Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ), the Generalized Anxiety Disorders scale, PROMIS Pain Interference, Pain Catastrophizing Scale, the Adult Sickle Cell Quality of Life Measurement Information System and the Current Opioid Misuse Measure. Participants were categorized into 'high' or 'low' depression groups based on PHQ scores. Higher depressive symptoms were significantly associated with increased daily pain intensity, negative daily mood, higher pain interference and catastrophizing, poorer quality of life and a higher likelihood of opioid misuse (all p < 0.01). SCD patients with more severe depressive symptoms experienced poorer pain outcomes, lower quality of life and increased risk of opioid misuse. Longitudinal data from this trial will determine whether addressing depressive symptoms may potentially reduce pain frequency and severity in SCD. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The artiodactyl (deer and sheep) calcaneus is a model that helps in understanding how many bones achieve anatomical optimization and functional adaptation. We consider how the dorsal and plantar cortices of these bones are optimized in quasi‐isolation (the conventional view) versus in the context of load sharing along the calcaneal shaft by "tension members" (the plantar ligament and superficial digital flexor tendon). This load‐sharing concept replaces the conventional view, as we have argued in a recent publication that employs an advanced analytical model of habitual loading and fracture risk factors of the deer calcaneus. Like deer and sheep calcanei, many mammalian limb bones also experience prevalent bending, which seems problematic because the bone is weaker and less fatigue‐resistant in tension than compression. To understand how bones adapt to bending loads and counteract deleterious consequences of tension, it is important to examine both strain‐mode‐specific (S‐M‐S) testing (compression testing of bone habitually loaded in compression; tension testing of bone habitually loaded in tension) and non‐S‐M‐S testing. Mechanical testing was performed on individually machined specimens from the dorsal "compression cortex" and plantar "tension cortex" of adult deer calcanei and were independently tested to failure in one of these two strain modes. We hypothesized that the mechanical properties of each cortex region would be optimized for its habitual strain mode when these regions are considered independently. Consistent with this hypothesis, energy absorption parameters were approximately three times greater in S‐M‐S compression testing in the dorsal/compression cortex when compared to non‐S‐M‐S tension testing of the dorsal cortex. However, inconsistent with this hypothesis, S‐M‐S tension testing of the plantar/tension cortex did not show greater energy absorption compared to non‐S‐M‐S compression testing of the plantar cortex. When compared to the dorsal cortex, the plantar cortex only had a higher elastic modulus (in S‐M‐S testing of both regions). Therefore, the greater strength and capacity for energy absorption of the dorsal cortex might "protect" the weaker plantar cortex during functional loading. However, this conventional interpretation (i.e., considering adaptation of each cortex in isolation) is rejected when critically considering the load‐sharing influences of the ligament and tendon that course along the plantar cortex. This important finding/interpretation has general implications for a better understanding of how other similarly loaded bones achieve anatomical optimization and functional adaptation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Automated chemistry platforms have been widely explored, but many focus on fixed tasks for chemical synthesis or analysis. However, a typical synthetic chemistry workflow utilizes both, such as kinetic measurements for reaction development and optimization. Due to their repetitive and time‐consuming nature, kinetic measurements are often omitted, which limits the mechanistic investigation of reactions. Herein, we present a "Chemputer" platform with on‐line analytics (UV/Vis, NMR) which automates routine kinetic measurements. The system's capabilities are showcased by exploring an inverse electron‐demand Diels–Alder using initial rate measurements, a metal complexation using variable time normalization analysis (VTNA), and formation of a series of tosylamide derivatives using Hammett analysis. Over 60 individual experiments are presented which required minimal intervention, highlighting the significant time savings of automation. Owing to the modular design of the platform, which facilitates rapid integration of commercial analytical tools, our approach is widely accessible and adjustable to the reaction under investigation. The platform is operated using the chemical programming language, XDL, hence experimental procedures and results are stored in a precise, computer‐readable format. We propose that widespread adoption of this reporting protocol in the chemical community could build a database of validated kinetic data beneficial for Machine Learning. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: The aim was to identify hospital and county characteristics associated with variation in breadth and depth of hospital partnerships with a broad range of organizations to improve population health. Data Sources: The American Hospital Association Annual Survey provided data on hospital partnerships to improve population health for the years 2017–2019. Design: The study adopts the dimensional publicness theory and social capital framework to examine hospital and county characteristics that facilitate hospital population health partnerships. The two dependent variables were number of local community organizations that hospitals partner with (breadth) and level of engagement with the partners (depth) to improve population health. The independent variables include three dimensions of publicness: Regulative, Normative and Cultural‐cognitive measured by various hospital factors and presence of social capital present at county level. Covariates in the multivariate analysis included hospital factors such as bed‐size and system membership. Methods: We used hierarchical linear regression models to assess various hospital and county factors associated with breadth and depth of hospital‐community partnerships, adjusting for covariates. Principal Findings: Nonprofit and public hospitals provided a greater breadth (coefficient, 1.61; SE, 0.11; p < 0.001 and coefficient, 0.95; SE, 0.14; p < 0.001) and depth (coefficient, 0.26, SE, 0.04; p < 0.001 & coefficient, 0.13; SE, 0.05; p < 0.05) of partnerships than their for‐profit counterparts, partially supporting regulative dimension of publicness. At a county level, we found community social capital positively associated with breadth of partnerships (coefficient, 0.13; SE, 0.08; p < 0.001). Conclusions: An environment that promotes collaboration between hospitals and organizations to improve population health may impact the health of the community by identifying health needs of the community, targeting social determinants of health, or by addressing patient social needs. However, findings suggest that publicness dimensions at an organizational level, which involves a culture of public value, maybe more important than county factors to achieve community building through partnerships. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: With access to cancer care services limited because of coronavirus disease 2019 control measures, cancer diagnosis and treatment have been delayed. The authors explored changes in the counts of US incident cases by cancer type, age, sex, race, and disease stage in 2020. Methods: Data were extracted from selected US population‐based cancer registries for diagnosis years 2015–2020 using first‐submission data from the North American Association of Central Cancer Registries. After a quality assessment, the monthly numbers of newly diagnosed cancer cases were extracted for six cancer types: colorectal, female breast, lung, pancreas, prostate, and thyroid. The observed numbers of incident cancer cases in 2020 were compared with the estimated numbers by calculating observed‐to‐expected (O/E) ratios. The expected numbers of incident cases were extrapolated using Joinpoint trend models. Results: The authors report an O/E ratio <1.0 for major screening‐eligible cancer sites, indicating fewer newly diagnosed cases than expected in 2020. The O/E ratios were lowest in April 2020. For every cancer site except pancreas, Asians/Pacific Islanders had the lowest O/E ratio of any race group. O/E ratios were lower for cases diagnosed at localized stages than for cases diagnosed at advanced stages. Conclusions: The current analysis provides strong evidence for declines in cancer diagnoses, relative to the expected numbers, between March and May of 2020. The declines correlate with reductions in pathology reports and are greater for cases diagnosed at in situ and localized stage, triggering concerns about potential poor cancer outcomes in the coming years, especially in Asians/Pacific Islanders. Plain Language Summary: To help control the spread of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19), health care organizations suspended nonessential medical procedures, including preventive cancer screening, during early 2020.Many individuals canceled or postponed cancer screening, potentially delaying cancer diagnosis.This study examines the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the number of newly diagnosed cancer cases in 2020 using first‐submission, population‐based cancer registry database.The monthly numbers of newly diagnosed cancer cases in 2020 were compared with the expected numbers based on past trends for six cancer sites.April 2020 had the sharpest decrease in cases compared with previous years, most likely because of the COVID‐19 pandemic. This analysis provides strong evidence for sharp declines in the numbers of new cancer cases diagnosed between March and May of 2020. The declines are correlated with reductions in pathology reports and are more substantial for cases diagnosed at in situ and localized stage, triggering concerns for potential poor cancer outcomes in certain demographic subgroups in the coming years. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: We examined the association between use of beta‐blockers and survival in pancreatic cancer patients after curative‐intent surgery. Methods: Using Danish healthcare registries, we conducted a population‐based cohort study of all patients undergoing curative‐intent surgery for pancreatic cancer in Denmark 1997–2021. We defined beta‐blocker use according to exposure before surgery as current (≤90 days), recent (91–365 days), or former (366–730 days) use, requiring at least one filled prescription. Patients were followed from the date of surgery for up to 5 years. We used Cox regression to compute hazard ratios (HRs) of deaths with 95% confidence intervals (CIs), adjusting for age, sex, year of diagnosis, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, liver disease, alcohol, and smoking. We also conducted an active comparator analysis, where we used angiotensin‐converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin‐receptor blockers as comparators instead of nonusers. Results: We included 2592 patients, of which 16.7% were beta‐blocker users. Median survival for the entire population was 24.4 months. Beta‐blocker use was associated with increased mortality (adjusted HR: 1.18; 95% CI: 1.04–1.34). This was evident in current (adjusted HR: 1.19; 95% CI: 1.02–1.38) and recent (adjusted HR: 1.29; 95% CI: 1.04–1.59) but not former (adjusted HR: 0.91; 95% CI: 0.64–1.43) users. In the active comparator analysis, the association between beta‐blocker exposure and mortality attenuated slightly (adjusted HR: 1.12; 95% CI: 0.93–1.35). Conclusions: We observed an association between beta‐blocker use and increased mortality in patients operated for pancreatic cancer. Findings are likely explained by confounding by indication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We created a database of lost and rediscovered tetrapod species, identified patterns in their distribution and factors influencing rediscovery. Tetrapod species are being lost at a faster rate than they are being rediscovered, due to slowing rates of rediscovery for amphibians, birds and mammals, and rapid rates of loss for reptiles. Finding lost species and preventing future losses should therefore be a conservation priority. By comparing the taxonomic and spatial distribution of lost and rediscovered tetrapod species, we have identified regions and taxa with many lost species in comparison to those that have been rediscovered—our results may help to prioritise search effort to find them. By identifying factors that influence rediscovery, we have improved our ability to broadly distinguish the types of species that are likely to be found from those that are not (because they are likely to be extinct). Some lost species, particularly those that are small and perceived to be uncharismatic, may have been neglected in terms of conservation effort, and other lost species may be hard to find due to their intrinsic characteristics and the characteristics of the environments they occupy (e.g. nocturnal species, fossorial species and species occupying habitats that are more difficult to survey such as wetlands). These lost species may genuinely await rediscovery. However, other lost species that possess characteristics associated with rediscovery (e.g. large species) and that are also associated with factors that negatively influence rediscovery (e.g. those occupying small islands) are more likely to be extinct. Our results may foster pragmatic search protocols that prioritise lost species likely to still exist. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Greater health care engagement with social determinants of health (SDOH) is critical to improving health equity. However, no national studies have compared programs to address patient social needs among critical access hospitals (CAHs), which are lifelines for rural communities. CAHs generally have fewer resources and receive governmental support to maintain operations. This study considers the extent to which CAHs engage in community health improvement, particularly upstream SDOH, and whether organizational or community factors predict involvement. Methods: Using descriptive statistics and Poisson regression, we compared 3 types of programs (screening, in‐house strategies, and external partnerships) to address the patient social needs between CAHs and non‐CAHs, independent of key organizational, county, and state factors. Findings: CAHs were less likely than non‐CAHs to have programs to screen patients for social needs, address unmet social needs of patients, and enact community partnerships to address SDOH. When we stratified hospitals according to whether they endorsed an equity‐focused approach as an organization, CAHs matched their non‐CAH counterparts on all 3 types of programs. Conclusions: CAHs lag relative to their urban and non‐CAH counterparts in their ability to address nonmedical needs of their patients and broader communities. While the Flex Program has shown success in offering technical assistance to rural hospitals, this program has mainly focused on traditional hospital services to address patients' acute health care needs. Our findings suggest that organizational and policy efforts surrounding health equity could bring CAHs in line with other hospitals in terms of their ability to support rural population health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: Anxiety and depression are common comorbidities in people living with epilepsy. Emerging research suggests that these conditions may even predate epilepsy onset. This review aimed to summarize the prevalence of clinically significant anxiety and depressive symptoms in people with first seizures and newly diagnosed epilepsy, as well as clinicodemographic factors associated with these symptoms. Methods: A scoping literature review was performed. OVID Medline and Embase were searched from January 1, 2000, through May 1, 2022. Articles of interest were selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results: From 1836 studies identified on screening, 16 met eligibility criteria and were included in the review. Clinically significant anxiety and depressive symptoms, as determined by validated cutoff scores for anxiety and depression screening instruments, were common in people with first seizures (range 13–28%) and newly diagnosed epilepsy (range 11–45%). They were associated with a range of clinicodemographic factors including past psychiatric history and trauma, personality traits, self‐esteem, and stigma profiles. Significance: There is substantial evidence that clinically significant anxiety and depressive symptoms are often present at the time and shortly following the first seizure or epilepsy diagnosis. Future research is needed to better understand the complex interactions between these common psychiatric comorbidities, new‐onset seizure disorders, and certain clinicodemographic characteristics. This knowledge may inform targeted and holistic treatment approaches. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Memristive devices are promising candidates for analog computing applications such as neuromorphic computation. Larger dynamic ranges and more sufficient multilevel states can enable the significant development of memristor‐based utilizations. Herein, a method to improve the analog switching performance of memristors through a hybrid tuning (coarse and fine tuning) of two sub‐filaments is demonstrated. The creation of sub‐filaments inside the dielectric switching layer is realized by deploying Pt metal islands in the switching layer. Given the different material stack configurations of the two sub‐filaments, they exhibit different switching properties to play the roles of coarse and fine tuning respectively in the memristor. Based on the above mechanism, a Pt/Ta/Al2O3/Pt island/Al2O3‐x/TiOy/Al2O3‐x/Pt memristor is proposed and fabricated. Through the hybrid tuning of two sub‐filaments, a combined dynamic range of 600 Ω to 50 kΩ is achieved. Compared to the reference Pt/Ta/Al2O3/Pt memristors (dynamic range: 600 Ω to 8 kΩ), both dynamic range and multilevel resistance states are increased significantly. Meanwhile, the energy efficiency is improved because the resistance of tunable states can be set to larger values. Furthermore, this mechanism can be incorporated into various existing memristors to improve their dynamic range and multilevel states, which extensively enriches the applications of memristors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Anaphylaxis is rising in prevalence among children. The current recommendations on the effective transition of anaphylaxis management to adolescents and young adults suggest preparation for the transition may be considered at 11–13 years of age in accordance with the patient's developmental stage. However, there has been limited research conducted on the perspective of caregivers regarding the transition of anaphylaxis management to their children. This study aims to determine the age caregivers feel it is appropriate to begin to teach their child to recognize anaphylaxis and use their adrenaline auto‐injectors (AAI). Methods: Caregivers of pediatric allergy patients who have been diagnosed with IgE‐mediated food allergy and have an AAI prescription were contacted by phone and invited to complete a questionnaire about when they feel it is appropriate to begin to teach their child to recognize anaphylaxis and use their AAI. Results: Of the 123 responses to the questionnaire received, 44.7% indicated that 9–11 years was the appropriate time for teaching their children to self‐inject an AAI. History of severe anaphylaxis (94.3%), child's ability to describe reasons to inject adrenaline (87.8%), and demonstrate AAI use (82.1%) were "very important" readiness factors identified. Almost half of caregivers were "not confident" (8.94%) or "somewhat confident" (40.65%) in training their child to use AAI. Caregivers with higher household incomes more frequently identified themselves as the party responsible for training their children to use AAI (p =.04). Conclusion: Caregivers in this sample expressed different perspectives than the current guidelines regarding the timing to initiate the transition of anaphylaxis management to their child. Caregivers expressed suboptimal confidence in teaching their children to use AAI. Clinicians should be aware of the factors that may indicate caregivers' desire to initiate an earlier transition of anaphylaxis management to their child and ensure access to appropriate training, education and support is available. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The New Zealand (NZ) Ministry of Health ethnicity data protocols recommend that people of South Asian (SAsian) ethnicity, other than Indian, are combined with people of Japanese and Korean ethnicity at the most commonly used level of aggregation in health research (level two). This may not work well for perinatal studies, as it has long been observed that women of Indian ethnicity have higher rates of adverse pregnancy outcomes, such as perinatal death. It is possible that women of other SAsian ethnicities share this risk. Aims: This study was performed to identify appropriate groupings of women of SAsian ethnicity for perinatal research. Materials and Methods: National maternity and neonatal data, and singleton birth records between 2008 and 2017 were linked using the Statistics NZ Integrated Data Infrastructure. Socio‐demographic risk profiles and pregnancy outcomes were compared between 15 ethnic groups. Recommendations were made based on statistical analyses and cultural evaluation with members of the SAsian research community. Results: Similarities were observed between women of Indian, Fijian Indian, South African Indian, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi and Pakistani ethnicities. A lower‐risk profile was seen among Japanese and Korean mothers. Risk profiles of women of combined Indian‐Māori, Indian‐Pacific and Indian‐New Zealand European ethnicity more closely represented their corresponding non‐Indian ethnicities. Conclusions: Based on these findings, we suggest a review of current NZ Ministry of Health ethnicity data protocols. We recommend that researchers understand the risk profiles of participants prior to aggregation of groups in research, to mitigate risks associated with masking differences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]