bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The effect of an initial catheter ablation with an adjunctive ethanol infusion into the vein of Marshall on persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Shimizu Yukiko , Yoshitani Kazuyasu , Kuriyama Tomoari , Mori Kazuki , Kujira Kazuto , Imai Masao , Fukuhara Rei , Taniguchi Ryoji , Toma Masanao , Miyamoto Tadashi , Sato Yukihito
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Some previous studies have reported that a first‐step ethanol infusion into the vein of Marshall (EIVOM) with touch‐up radiofrequency (RF) ablation can facilitate mitral isthmus (MI) block and improves the ablation outcomes in persistent atrial fibrillation (PeAF) patients. However, the effect of an initial RF ablation with an adjunctive EIVOM has not been fully investigated.

Methods

This study enrolled 233 PeAF patients undergoing pulmonary vein isolation and linear ablation including an MI, roof line, and cavotricuspid isthmus ablation. An EIVOM was performed when endocardial ablation with or without coronary sinus ablation failed to create MI block.

Results

Bidirectional MI block was achieved in 224 patients (96.1%). Among them, MI block was obtained by only RF ablation in 174/224 patients (77.7%) (RF group) and an adjunctive EIVOM was needed in 50/224 (22.3%) (EIVOM group). During the follow‐up, 113 (64.9%) RF group patients were free from AF/atrial tachycardia compared to 41 (82.0%) EIVOM group patients (log‐rank p = .045). In a multivariate Cox regression analysis, an adjunctive EIVOM was associated with a lower recurrence rate (hazard ratio = 0.39, 95% confidence interval = 0.17–0.78, p = .006).

Conclusion

An initial RF ablation with an adjunctive EIVOM strategy improved MI ablation's acute success rate and was associated with better clinical outcomes.
The antimicrobial effect of eugenol against Campylobacter jejuni on experimental raw chicken breast meat model
Authors: Gürbüz Murat , Ercan Aydan , Omurtag‐Korkmaz Burcu İrem
Published: January 2024

Campylobacter jejuni is the predominant bacterial cause of gastroenteritis, the main cause of foodborne deaths. Currently, Campylobacter is a common foodborne pathogen found in poultry; thus, there is a need for the development of novel intervention strategies. The aim of the study was to examine the effect of eugenol on C. jejuni load in an experimental chicken meat model. We observed that eugenol was effective in reducing C. jejuni load for 7 days of storage. Eugenol treatment at all concentrations (1.28, 5.12, and 10.24 mg mL−1) decreased Campylobacter load more significantly in the reference strain, and this decrease was dose‐dependent throughout the storage period. Compared to the control group, eugenol reduced the counts of chicken isolate and the reference strain of C. jejuni by approximately 1.5 and 4.5 log/CFU, respectively, after 7 days of storage. Eugenol is a promising agent for improving the safety of poultry.
An integrated single‐cell RNA‐seq atlas of the mouse hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus links transcriptomic and functional types
Authors: Berkhout J. B. , Poormoghadam D. , Yi C. , Kalsbeek A. , Meijer O. C. , Mahfouz A.
Published: January 2024

The hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVN) is a highly complex brain region that is crucial for homeostatic regulation through neuroendocrine signaling, outflow of the autonomic nervous system, and projections to other brain areas. In the past years, single‐cell datasets of the hypothalamus have contributed immensely to the current understanding of the diverse hypothalamic cellular composition. While the PVN has been adequately classified functionally, its molecular classification is currently still insufficient. To address this, we created a detailed atlas of PVN transcriptomic cell types by integrating various PVN single‐cell datasets into a recently published hypothalamus single‐cell transcriptome atlas. Furthermore, we functionally profiled transcriptomic cell types, based on relevant literature, existing retrograde tracing data, and existing single‐cell data of a PVN‐projection target region. Finally, we validated our findings with immunofluorescent stainings. In our PVN atlas dataset, we identify the well‐known different neuropeptide types, each composed of multiple novel subtypes. We identify Avp‐Tac1, Avp‐Th, Oxt‐Foxp1, Crh‐Nr3c1, and Trh‐Nfib as the most important neuroendocrine subtypes based on markers described in literature. To characterize the preautonomic functional population, we integrated a single‐cell retrograde tracing study of spinally projecting preautonomic neurons into our PVN atlas. We identify these (presympathetic) neurons to cocluster with the Adarb2+ clusters in our dataset. Further, we identify the expression of receptors for Crh, Oxt, Penk, Sst, and Trh in the dorsal motor nucleus of the vagus, a key region that the pre‐parasympathetic PVN neurons project to. Finally, we identify Trh‐Ucn3 and Brs3‐Adarb2 as some centrally projecting populations. In conclusion, our study presents a detailed overview of the transcriptomic cell types of the murine PVN and provides a first attempt to resolve functionality for the identified populations.
Coping and anxiety symptoms in family carers of dependent older people: Mediation and moderation effects of subjective caregiver burden
Authors: López‐Martínez Catalina , Orgeta Vasiliki , Frías‐Osuna Antonio , del‐Pino‐Casado Rafael
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Coping responses influence anxiety symptoms experienced by informal carers. However, only a few studies have investigated the longitudinal association between coping responses and anxiety symptoms in family carers. We also currently have limited knowledge on the mediating or moderating influence of subjective caregiver burden on this relationship over time. The aim of the present study was to investigate the longitudinal relationship between coping and anxiety symptoms in family carers of dependent older people, and examine the mediating or moderating role of subjective caregiver burden over time.

Design

Prospective longitudinal study.

Methods

We recruited and enrolled participants from a probability sample of 132 family carers of older dependent relatives. We measured coping strategies, anxiety symptoms, subjective caregiver burden, and several covariates (sex and intensity of care) at baseline and at 1‐year follow‐up. We used generalized estimating equations with multiple imputations to examine associations over time.

Results

Considering both direct and indirect effects through subjective burden, anxiety symptoms were positively associated with proactive coping (B = 0.13), planning (B = 0.15), self‐distraction (B = 0.24), denial (B = 1.15), venting (B = 0.94) and self‐blame (B = 0.90), and negatively associated with positive reframing (B = −0.83) and acceptance (B = −0.75). Subjective caregiver burden moderated the relationship between anxiety symptoms and planning, and the use of denial as a form of coping.

Conclusions

Our results show that subjective caregiver burden is an important moderator and mediator of the longitudinal association between coping responses and anxiety symptoms in carers.

Clinical Relevance

Proactive coping and planning when subjective burden is low, self‐distraction, denial, venting, and self‐blame significantly increase levels of anxiety and caregiver burden in carers over time. Acceptance and positive reframing however as coping responses are associated with lower levels of anxiety and caregiver burden long‐term. Our findings highlight the need for a multi‐dimensional approach in future caregiving interventions.
The changing morphology of the ventricular walls of mouse and human with increasing gestation
Authors: Jensen Bjarke , Chang Yun Hee , Bamforth Simon D. , Mohun Timothy , Sedmera David , Bartos Martin , Anderson Robert H.
Published: January 2024

That the highly trabeculated ventricular walls of the developing embryos transform to the arrangement during the fetal stages, when the mural architecture is dominated by the thickness of the compact myocardium, has been explained by the coalescence of trabeculations, often erroneously described as ‘compaction’. Recent data, however, support differential rates of growth of the trabecular and compact layers as the major driver of change. Here, these processes were assessed quantitatively and visualized in standardized views. We used a larger dataset than has previously been available of mouse hearts, covering the period from embryonic day 10.5 to postnatal day 3, supported by images from human hearts. The volume of the trabecular layer increased throughout development, in contrast to what would be expected had there been ‘compaction’. During the transition from embryonic to fetal life, the rapid growth of the compact layer diminished the proportion of trabeculations. Similarly, great expansion of the central cavity reduced the proportion of the total cavity made up of intertrabecular recesses. Illustrations of the hearts with the median value of left ventricular trabeculation confirm a pronounced growth of the compact wall, with prominence of the central cavity. This corresponds, in morphological terms, to a reduction in the extent of the trabecular layer. Similar observations were made in the human hearts. We conclude that it is a period of comparatively slow growth of the trabecular layer, rather than so‐called compaction, that is the major determinant of the changing morphology of the ventricular walls of both mouse and human hearts.
The effectiveness of preoperative delirium prevention in intermediate to high‐risk older surgical patients: A systematic review
Authors: Lay Nicholas , Foley Pieternella , Allen Jacqueline
Published: January 2024

Background

Few reviews have addressed delirium prevention among intermediate to high‐risk older surgical patients.

Aims

To map preoperative delirium prevention interventions for older surgical patients at intermediate to high risk of developing delirium, assess outcomes and identify gaps in knowledge.

Design

Systematic narrative review of randomised controlled trials reported following the PRISMA checklist.

Methods

A systematic search was conducted of the literature published from 1990 to October 2022 in Medline, CINAHL and Ageline and of the grey literature in Google Scholar. Randomised controlled trials were retrieved that assessed the effectiveness of preoperative delirium prevention interventions for older surgical patients at intermediate to high risk of delirium. Data were extracted using a data extraction tool, and results were tabulated. Studies were assessed for bias using the Cochrane Collaboration Risk of Bias tool.

Results

Twenty‐one studies met the selection criteria including N = 5096 participants. Two studies tested cognitive training, two studies tested fascia iliaca compartment block and one study assessed femoral nerve block. Ten studies tested prophylactic medications including methylprednisolone. Five studies investigated geriatric assessment and management. One study assessed transcutaneous electrical acupoint stimulation. In the two studies testing fascia iliaca compartment block, there was a reduction in postoperative delirium for orthopaedic patients. Methylprednisolone reduced postoperative delirium in orthopaedic patients and in those undergoing gastrointestinal surgery. Results of all other interventions on the occurrence of postoperative delirium and additional outcomes including the severity and duration of delirium were inconclusive.

Conclusions

Despite the promising results for fascia iliaca compartment block and methylprednisolone, there is limited knowledge regarding evidence‐based delirium prevention interventions. Most studies had small sample sizes indicating that the current evidence is exploratory. There is an urgent need for the funding and conduct of trials to test preventative interventions for older surgical patients at intermediate to high risk of developing delirium.
Patients' experiences of shared decision‐making in nursing care: A qualitative study
Authors: Van Der Ploeg‐Dorhout Marianne Paulina , Van Den Boogaard Charina , Reinders‐Messelink Heleen , Van Der Cingel Margreet
Published: January 2024

Aim

To explore patients' experiences of shared decision‐making, in nursing care during their stay in a healthcare institution.

Design

This study employed a qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

Twenty participants were interviewed from two rehabilitation centres, a nephrology ward of a hospital, and a rehabilitation ward of a long‐term care facility. A constant comparative method was used for the inductive analysis.

Results

The main theme was ‘feeling seen and understood’, in the context of person‐centred care, which served as the unifying thread across five themes. The five themes included the importance of a positive nurse–patient relationship as a foundation for shared decision‐making. Next, patients experienced collaboration, and this was influenced by verbal and non‐verbal communication. Another theme was that patients often felt overwhelmed during their stay, affecting shared decision‐making. The fourth theme was that many decisions were not made through the shared decision‐making process but were still perceived as satisfactory. The final theme highlighted patients' perspectives on their role in decision‐making and influencing factors.

Conclusion

Patients describe how feeling seen and understood is a prerequisite for shared decision‐making as a part of person‐centred care. For nurses, this implies that they should focus on aspects such as building a good relationship and acknowledgement of patients' feelings and circumstances, next to empowering patients to feel knowledgeable and valued. This way patient's motivation to participate in shared decision‐making will be enhanced.

Reporting Method

Following the EQUATOR guidelines, reporting was guided by the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ).

Patient or Public Contribution

Patients were involved in the study through interviews during the research process and member checks during analysis.

Implications for the profession and/or patient care

Before initiating shared decision‐making processes, prioritise making the patient feel seen and understood. Be mindful that patients often feel overwhelmed during their stay. Use a person‐centred approach to make patients feel knowledgeable—this empowers them for shared decision‐making.

Impact

Research on patients' experiences of shared decision‐making in nursing care is limited, yet crucial for understanding patients' needs in shared decision‐making. This study highlights patients' perceptions that shared decision‐making is best facilitated within the nurse–patient relationship by nurses who primarily focus on ensuring that patients feel acknowledged and understood.
The experiences of gender and sexually diverse parents using support and services for their young children: An integrative review
Authors: Wright Amy L. , Butt Michelle L. , Valerio Claudia , Ahmed Ossaid , Russell Lisa M. , Ferron Era Mae
Published: January 2024

Aim

To address: What are the experiences of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parents using parenting supports and services to meet their children's early childhood development needs (<5 years of age)?

Design

Whittemore and Knafl's (2005) integrative review methodology.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched from 2000 to October 14, 2022 for empirical studies or reviews addressing the research question. The title and abstract of 12,158 articles were screened for inclusion in the review by two independent researchers; 175 of these articles underwent full‐text review. Studies selected were critically appraised using a Joanna Briggs Institute Critical Appraisal tool. Relevant key findings were extracted from each study and entered into N‐VIVO‐12. Thematic content analysis was employed and PRISMA guidelines were adhered to.

Results

A total of 18 articles (15 qualitative and three multi‐method studies) met the inclusion criteria and were selected for the review. Seven themes were revealed from analysis of the studies: (1) 2SLGBTQQIA+ Status kept a secret; (2) Forced to come out; (3) Heteronormative messaging; (4) Feeling excluded; (5) Stigmatised; (6) Parents act as educators; and (7) Positive experiences.

Conclusion

This integrative review provides nurses with insight into the experiences of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parents using health care services for their young child.

Implications for the Profession

This article highlights what changes nurses need to make to their practice to ensure appropriate, inclusive care for clients of diverse sexual and gender identities and their families.

Impact

Health care providers, especially nurses, have an opportunity to improve the experiences of these families and positively impact their health and well‐being. Additionally, there is a need for research with the 2SLGBTQQIA+ parent community and the use of rigorous methodological techniques, including clearly linking participants' gender and sexual identities with study findings, to improve our understanding of 2SLGBTQQIA+ parent experiences.

Patient or Public Contribution

Although there was no direct patient contribution to the work since it was an integrative review of the literature, indirectly patient contributions are incorporated from the original research results of studies incorporated into this review.
Factors that influence medication adherence in women with fibromyalgia: A path analysis
Authors: Prikhodkina Maria , Melnikov Semyon
Published: January 2024

Aims

To investigate the relationships between depression symptoms, perceived stigma, disease severity, patient‐provider communication and medication adherence in fibromyalgia patients. The objectives were to explore how these factors influence treatment adherence and to develop a comprehensive model illustrating their interconnections.

Background

Fibromyalgia is a chronic pain syndrome with fatigue, sleep issues and idiopathic pain. Medication adherence is limited by insufficient symptom relief, side effects and costs. Stigma further complicates fibromyalgia. Disease severity affects patient‐provider communication. Associations between depression, stigma, severity, communication and adherence in fibromyalgia are unclear.

Design

A cross‐sectional, correlational study.

Methods

The STROBE guidelines for cross‐sectional studies were followed. Participants included Hebrew‐speaking participants who were members of two Facebook groups: ‘Shades of Purple’ and ‘Fibromyalgia‐ Get to Know!’ Between February and April 2022. They undertook evaluations using The Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 to gauge depression symptoms, assessed perceived stigma, utilised The Revised Fibromyalgia Impact Questionnaire to determine disease severity, employed The Patient Reaction Assessment questionnaire for patient‐provider communication, and used the 8‐item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale (MMAS‐8). Associations between the variables were explored using Pearson's correlations and path analyses.

Results

The study included 141 women with fibromyalgia, aged 22 to 76 years. Most reported having a stable partner (69.5%) and 75.2% had children. The treatment adherence levels were as follows: 53.2% (N = 75)—low, 33.3% (N = 47)—medium and 13.5% (N = 19)—high. Depression positively correlated with stigma. Stigma negatively correlated with patient‐provider communication. Patient‐provider communication positively correlated with treatment adherence. A significant negative indirect effect of depression on treatment adherence through stigma and patient‐provider communication was found.

Conclusions

Perceived stigma and patient‐provider communication played a mediating role in the relationships between depression and treatment adherence among women with fibromyalgia.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Addressing stigma related to fibromyalgia and effective patient‐provider communication can positively influence treatment adherence.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
“The children don't do enough”: Including children in fairness perceptions of housework
Authors: Sarmiento Marla I. , Hwang Jaehong , Midgette Allegra J.
Published: January 2024

Objective

The present study set out to investigate how all the members, including children, of nuclear US families conceptualize a fair division of household labor.

Background

The majority of the literature has focused on how couples perceive their family's division of labor. However, for many households, children are also present and potentially involved in the division of household chores. Thus there is a need to investigate how the whole family, rather than just couples, perceive and understand the fairness of the family's division of labor.

Methods

This study employed thematic analysis of in‐depth interviews with all family members of nine primarily White US middle‐class families (N = 33).

Results

This study found two main themes: (1) the kids don't do enough and that's not fair, and (2) if we agree and are happy, then it's fair. The findings highlight how children's involvement is considered in fairness evaluations, whereas a specific amount of labor is often considered less important than emotional satisfaction and agreement.

Conclusion

Children are seen as important actors in conceptualizing a fair division of labor. Generational differences highlighted distinct understandings about the possibility of equality suggesting that the role of the (im)possibility of a type of division may result in other factors being used to evaluate whether a division is fair.

Implications

Future studies on fairness perceptions should include both children's perceptions and expectations for their involvement by both children and parents, to better understand how family's approach conceptualizing the division of their household's labor.
Cobra Kai Never Dies! Generational seriality and revived legacies of The Karate Kid
Authors: Frymus Agata
Published: January 2024

This article investigates the hallmarks of generational seriality—the term coined by Matt Hills—using Cobra Kai, and its predecessor, The Karate Kid trilogy, as case studies. It combines textual analysis of overarching themes of these texts, such as the portrayal of white masculinity, and aligned conceptualizations of class, with the examination of televisual nostalgia. It draws on existing scholarship on TV returns and revivals, exploring how Cobra Kai enters a dialogue with the fans of the franchise, and how that dialogue is articulated. While building upon the iconography familiar to The Karate Kid fans, Cobra Kai contains a great degree of self‐reflexivity, with dialogue or entire plot lines that parody regressive gender politics of the 1980s. The series brings together the generic conventions of the teen film and ample opportunities for nostalgia in its original fan base; thus, it significantly expands its appeal to two distinctive demographics.
Insomnia symptoms and risk for atrial fibrillation – The HUNT study
Authors: Gémes Katalin , Malmo Vegard , Strand Linn Beate , Ellekjær Hanne , Loennechen Jan Pål , Janszky Imre , Laugsand Lars Erik
Published: January 2024

Studies on the effect of insomnia on atrial fibrillation risk in the general population are limited, therefore we investigated the association between insomnia and the risk of atrial fibrillation in a large‐scale population‐based study with valid atrial fibrillation measure. A total of 33,983 participants (55% women) reported their insomnia symptoms in the third wave of the HUNT study (between 2006 and 2008) in Norway, and they were followed for their first atrial fibrillation diagnosis until 2020 using hospital registers. Atrial fibrillation diagnoses were validated by physicians based on medical records and electrocardiograms. Insomnia symptoms were assessed by four questions, and analysed both individually and as cumulative symptoms. Cox regression, adjusted for age, sex, social and marital status, working in shiftwork, alcohol consumption, smoking, physical activity, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, and symptoms of anxiety and depression, was conducted. Overall, 1592 atrial fibrillation cases were identified during the follow‐up and 31.6% of individuals reported at least one insomnia symptom. In our analysis, we did not detect meaningful associations between insomnia symptoms and the risk of atrial fibrillation. In conclusion, in this population there was no evidence for an association between insomnia symptoms and the risk of subsequent atrial fibrillation.
The Prevalence and Usage of “Neuromyths” Among German in‐Service‐ and Pre‐Service Teachers – Compared to Neuroscience Specialists and the General Public
Authors: Hennes Ann‐Kathrin , Schabmann Alfred , Schmidt Barbara Maria
Published: January 2024

In the educational context, there are numerous “neuromyths” about how findings from neuroscience can be used to improve teaching and learning. International research has shown that the majority of teachers tend to believe in these and use them in the classroom. Since the belief in neuromyths might not enhance or even have adverse effects on students' learning, teachers need to be able to identify neuromyths. We examined the prevalence of beliefs in neuromyths among German in‐service and pre‐service teachers—compared to the prevalence among people with a certain expertise in neuroscience (“specialists”) or no connection to neuroscience (“general public”). A sample of 247 participants completed a German adaptation of the neuromyth questionnaire by Dekker et al. (2012). The results show that German teachers believe the majority of neuromyths to be true. Compared to teachers and the general public, specialists were more accurate in identifying neuromyths. About half of the in‐service teachers reported that they generally use neuroscientific principles in the classroom—at least some of which seem to be based on NM. Possible approaches to disrupt neuromyths are discussed.
The association between team cohesion and performance: A network analysis of nurses
Authors: Wei Huimin , Zhang Simeng , Qu Wenran , Liu Mengqi , Yan Zeping , Luan Xiaorong
Published: January 2024

Team cohesion, as a necessary condition for the cooperation and development of a team, has been shown to have a strong association with team performance. However, the mechanism of this internal correlation is unclear and more in‐depth studies are lacking. The study aimed to explore the complex links between the dimensions of team cohesion and performance in nurses. A total of 1639 practice nurses from 118 nursing teams were included in this cross‐sectional study. Data were collected using the Team Cohesion Scale (including consistency of affection, behavior, and cognition) and the Team Effectiveness Scale (including cooperation satisfaction, and task performance). Using network analysis, the team cohesion and performance network was constructed, and the strength and bridge strength of nodes were calculated. The results showed that the edges between team cohesion and performance dimensions were all positively correlated. Cooperation satisfaction and consistency of affection are the core variables in the network. Interventions targeting cooperation satisfaction and consistency of affection need to be developed at the team level to maximize team cohesion and performance among nurses.
Liberalism against itself
Authors: Moyn Samuel
Published: January 2024

The task for liberals in our time is to imagine a form of liberalism that is altogether original. If they don't, it does not seem likely that they will see their creed survive—and anyway, survival is not good enough.
Dupilumab: Two sides of a side‐effect
Authors: Hoeger Peter H.
Published: January 2024

The purported antiviral effect of dupilumab may be considered a positive side effect. Its mechanism, however, points to an underlying immunomodulation with potentially far‐reaching consequences.
Incontinentia pigmenti Stage 1 is not simply vesiculo‐bullous but vesiculo‐pustular
Authors: Çetinarslan Tubanur , Fölster‐Holst Regina , Van Gysel Dirk , Buchner Matthias , Happle Rudolf
Published: January 2024

Incontinentia pigmenti (IP) is a rare X‐linked dominant, male‐lethal disorder characterized by pathognomic skin lesions. As described in the literature the typical cutaneous changes follow the pattern of Blaschko's lines and develop in four stages that usually start at birth. Stage 1 is called vesicular, bullous or inflammatory. The vesicles are rapidly filled with eosinophils and thus turn into pustules. Thus, the term “pustular” is relevant to the first phase of IP, and the stage can be considered as “vesiculopustular/inflammatory” to be more precise than “vesicular” or “bullous.”
Corymbiform cutaneous disorders in pediatric dermatology: Exploring this pattern of presentation beyond secondary syphilis
Authors: McKinnon Alyson T. , Sadeghi Nakisa B. , Nieman Elizabeth L. , Morrell Dean S. , McShane Diana B. , Kincannon Jay M. , Evans Megan S.
Published: January 2024

“Corymbiform” is a term found in medical literature as early as 1876 to describe a central larger lesion with smaller surrounding lesions, leading to the appearance of an irregular border. While the term in current medical literature most often describes a possible morphology of secondary syphilis, the authors have noted this pattern presenting in other cutaneous conditions. We present a commentary on the corymbiform pattern in dermatology including a series of photographs of cutaneous disorders presenting in a corymbiform morphology in pediatric patients. While the term corymbiform is not commonly used in the present‐day dermatologic literature, increased recognition and use of this term may aid in the recognition of various dermatologic diagnoses presenting in a less common morphology and may also lend to increased fluidity of dermatologic descriptions in the literature.
The Mencian theory of royal succession
Authors: Back Youngsun
Published: January 2024

This paper aims to construct a comprehensive theory of royal succession of Mencius. Basically, there are three distinct modes of royal succession described in the Mencius: abdication, hereditary succession, and revolution. Abdication involves the voluntary transfer of power by the incumbent ruler to a virtuous minister. Hereditary succession entails the transmission of power to the son of the incumbent ruler. Revolution marks the foundation of a new dynasty by deposing the incumbent ruler. What are their exact relationships? In contrast to hereditary succession, which represents “rule by heredity,” abdication and revolution are often categorized together as “rule by virtue,” which became the backbone of the Confucian virtue politics. However, Mencius' writings, especially 5A5 and 5A6, suggest his clear intention to establish a coherent, or at least, compatible relationship between abdication and hereditary succession. This paper analyzes Mencius' discussions on royal succession to elucidate how he perceived the connection between abdication and hereditary succession, and to explore why he considered revolution as a separate category. In this study, I refer to the former as the “entrenched‐trust model” and distinguish the latter as “anticipated‐trust model.” The final section of the paper compares the three modes of royal succession in terms of the nature of the people's trust, the susceptibility of the people's approval, and the candidate's disinterest in power.
Plum blossom low molecular weight polypeptide protects HaCaT cells against UVB‐induced oxidative damage in vitro and underlying mechanism
Authors: Chen Zhixiong , Cao Ping , Zhu Tingheng , Yan Cui , Zheng Zhongbo , Yao Hong
Published: January 2024

Background

Increasing amounts of ultraviolet radiation occur as ozone depletion causes the earth's ozone layer to be destroyed, making antioxidant efficacy a research hotspot. Previous studies on plum blossom have mostly focused on Volatile Oils, Flavonoids, Phenylpropanoids, and other compounds, whereas few studies have focused on low molecular weight polypeptide (LMWP) of plum blossom. This research provides a reference for the deep processing and utilization of plum blossom.

Objectives

(a) Plum blossom low molecular weight polypeptides protect HaCaT cells against UVB‐induced oxidative damage in vitro and the underlying mechanism. (b) Improve the theoretical basis for the intense processing and utilization of plum blossom.

Methods

The safe concentration of LMWP and the survival rate of HaCaT cells were determined using the CCK‐8 experiment. The fluorescence intensity of reactive oxygen species (ROS) was identified using the dichlorofluorescin diacetate (DCFH‐DA) method; Superoxide dismutase (SOD) and malondialdehyde (MDA) concentrations were measured in ruptured cells; Western blot analysis was used to examine the expression levels of three proteins: nuclear factor E2‐related factor 2 (Nrf2), heme oxygenase 1 (HO‐1), and benzoquinone oxidoreductase 1 (NQO‐1).

Results

It was noted that a certain concentration of LMWP could promote cell proliferation. In oxidatively damaged HaCaT cells, SOD levels and survival rates were markedly reduced, but ROS and MDA levels were elevated. However, after treatment with LMWP, the survival rate of the cells and SOD levels were markedly increased, and the levels of ROS and MDA were markedly decreased. As shown by Western blotting, the model group exhibited lower levels of Nrf2, HO‐1, and NQO‐1 expression than the control group, whereas LMWP‐treated cells had significantly higher levels of Nrf2, HO‐1, and NQO‐1 expression than their model‐treated counterparts.

Conclusions

LMMP can effectively protect HaCaT cells against oxidative damage in vitro induced by UVB, and the underlying mechanism is linked to the activation of the transcription factor Nrf2.
Lip color diversity: An intricate study
Authors: Vergnaud Héloïse , Charton Zoé , Blumenthal David , Couturaud Virginie , Le Fur Marie , Loescher Eléonore , Caisey Laurence , Gazano Germaine
Published: January 2024

Background

Lip investigations and characterizations in the literature are less prevalent than for skin, particularly on the topic of color diversity. However, as the consumer demand increases for a nude lip makeup result, that is, shades close to the bare lip color, the identification and modification of lip color is essential for the cosmetic industry.

Objective

The objective was to highlight lip color diversity among three ethnicities (Caucasian, African and Hispanic), through the use of a spectral color measurement device especially adapted to the lip area, and to consider lip color ethnic specificities and overlaps.

Materials and Methods

The inferior natural lip color was measured with a full‐face hyperspectral imaging system, SpectraFace (Newtone Technologies, Lyon, France), on 410 healthy women aged 19 to 68 (Caucasian French, Caucasian American, African American, and Hispanic American women). A hierarchical ascending classification, was deployed to determine clusters based on the lip colorimetric parameters along two strategies to identify the best statistical analysis to preserve the lip color diversity.

Results

Lip color is a continuous color space, with great intra‐ethnic and inter‐ethnic diversity, especially for African American women in terms of chroma and lightness. Among the two strategies of data analysis, our two‐step statistical clustering analysis yielded 11 groups (i.e., 11 lip tones), revealing an accurate representation of the scope of diversity, but also of the overlaps.

Conclusion

The 11 lip tones/colors could potentially serve as target shades for the development of a more diverse and inclusive range of lip cosmetics, such as nude lipsticks.
Figurate erythema in 11 Eastern European sphynx cats
Authors: Mendoza‐Kuznetsova Ekaterina , Lokianskiene Viktorija , Matise‐VanHoutan Ilze , Fiskovich Olesya , Olivry Thierry
Published: January 2024

Background

In humans, figurate erythema (FE) represents a heterogenous group of dermatoses with circular or serpiginous erythematous skin lesions; FE has not been reported in cats.

Objectives

To report clinical and histological characteristics and outcomes of FE in sphynx cats from Baltic sea‐bordering countries.

Animals

Eleven client‐owned sphynx cats with FE.

Materials and Methods

We recruited cases meeting the following criteria: (i) a sphynx breed, (ii) FE with or without scaling, (iii) a chronic, waxing‐and‐waning course lasting longer than a month and (iv) an absence of other skin diseases.

Results

Of 11 cats, there were seven Donskoys, one Peterbald, one Ukrainian Levkoy and two presumed Canadian sphynxes; all except one were males, and the age of onset was <12 months in eight cats. Skin lesions lasted between 1.2 and 56 months, and they consisted of erythematous plaques with a linear‐to‐serpiginous, annular, gyrate or iris configuration predominating on the trunk and extremities. Scaling was often seen trailing the edge of the centrifugally expanding erythema. All cats were otherwise asymptomatic or mildly pruritic. Dermatophytosis was ruled out by special stains and/or fungal cultures in eight cats. Microscopic lesions revealed focal, mild‐to‐moderate epidermal hyperplasia and hyperkeratosis, minimal‐to‐mild dysplasia and subepidermal collagen smudging. Special stains were negative for dermatophytes. The clinical remission of FE was not achieved with diet changes or medical interventions; yet, a spontaneous, transient, partial or complete improvement occurred in most cats.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance

This is the first report of FE in sphynx cats from Eastern Europe.
Prenatal maternal glucocorticoid exposure modifies sperm miRNA profiles across multiple generations in the guinea‐pig
Authors: Hamada Hirotaka , Casciaro Christopher , Moisiadis Vasilis G. , Constantinof Andrea , Kostaki Alisa , Matthews Stephen G.
Published: January 2024

Maternal stress and glucocorticoid exposure during pregnancy have multigenerational effects on neuroendocrine function and behaviours in offspring. Importantly, effects are transmitted through the paternal lineage. Altered phenotypes are associated with profound differences in transcription and DNA methylation in the brain. In the present study, we hypothesized that maternal prenatal synthetic glucocorticoid (sGC) exposure in the F0 pregnancy will result in differences in miRNA levels in testes germ cells and sperm across multiple generations, and that these changes will associate with modified microRNA (miRNA) profiles and gene expression in the prefrontal cortex (PFC) of subsequent generations. Pregnant guinea‐pigs (F0) were treated with multiple courses of the sGC betamethasone (Beta) (1 mg kg–1; gestational days 40, 41, 50, 51, 60 and 61) in late gestation. miRNA levels were assessed in testes germ cells and in F2 PFC using the GeneChip miRNA 4.0 Array and candidate miRNA measured in epididymal sperm by quantitative real‐time PCR. Maternal Beta exposure did not alter miRNA levels in germ cells derived from the testes of adult male offspring. However, there were significant differences in the levels of four candidate miRNAs in the sperm of F1 and F2 adult males. There were no changes in miRNA levels in the PFC of juvenile F2 female offspring. The present study has identified that maternal Beta exposure leads to altered miRNA levels in sperm that are apparent for at least two generations. The fact that differences were confined to epididymal sperm suggests that the intergenerational effects of Beta may target the epididymis.

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Key points

Paternal glucocorticoid exposure prior to conception leads to profound epigenetic changes in the brain and somatic tissues in offspring, and microRNAs (miRNAs) in sperm may mediate these changes.

We show that there were significant differences in the miRNA profile of epididymal sperm in two generations following prenatal glucocorticoid exposure that were not observed in germ cells derived from the testes.

The epididymis is a probable target for intergenerational programming.

The effects of prenatal glucocorticoid treatment may span multiple generations.
Description of two new species of genera Daidalotarsonemus and Floridotarsonemus (Acari: Tarsonemidae) from West Bengal, India
Authors: Kayal Sandipan , Karmakar Krishna
Published: January 2024

Two new species belonging to the genera Daidalotarsonemus De Leon, 1956 and Floridotarsonemus Attiah, 1970 named as Daidalotarsonemus kalyanicus Karmakar & Kayal sp. nov. and Floridotarsonemus boroiae Karmakar & Kayal sp. nov. are described based on the specimens found on the leaves and barks of Indian Ber, Ziziphus mauritiana Lam. from Kalyani, Nadia, West Bengal, India.
Surface chemistry models for low temperature Si epitaxy process simulation in a single-wafer reactor
Authors: Jäckel Linda , Zienert Andreas , Zeun Annekathrin , Seidel Anna-Sophie , Schuster Jörg
Published: January 2024

We investigate Si epitaxy using 3D reactor scale computational fluid dynamics simulations coupled with surface chemistry models for the growth of pure silicon and phosphorus-doped silicon (Si:P) films. We focus on low temperature Si and Si:P processes using dichlorosilane (DCS) and phosphine. Based on existing DCS-based Si chemistry models for higher process temperatures, we developed a new kinetic chemistry model for low temperature Si epitaxy. To include doping, we developed an additional empirical model for Si:P epitaxy as there is not sufficient qualitative data on phosphine chemistry available for a kinetic chemistry model. This work provides Si and Si:P surface chemistry models, which allow reactor scale process simulations to get valuable process insights, enabling rational process optimization and supporting process transfer. Process optimization is demonstrated through process parameter variation with the main goal being the reduction of Si process variability by increasing within-wafer growth rate homogeneity.
Exploring the thermal behavior and diffusive functionality of structural defects and phase boundaries in near-stoichiometric chromium diborides by in situ scanning transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Persson Per O. Å. , Rosen Johanna , Petrov Ivan , Palisaitis Justinas
Published: January 2024

Near-stoichiometric chromium diboride films were subject to in situ annealing inside a scanning transmission electron microscope to access the thermal behavior of the film and embedded structural planar defects. Independent of films’ stoichiometry, the planar defects were unaffected by the applied heat treatments. On the contrary, the interfaces between the boron-rich tissue phase and the CrB2 phase were reshaped in the overstoichometric CrB2 film. At high temperatures, diffusion of contact metal species (platinum) from the focused ion beam sample preparation was triggered, with subsequent migration onto the sample. This resulted in the formation of metal-rich regions as directly observed and characterized at the atomic level. We determined that platinum did not react with the diboride structure but is accommodated by various defects present in the film.
Future pandemics and the urge to ‘do something’
Authors: Lerner Adam , Eyal Nir
Published: January 2024

Research with enhanced potential pandemic pathogens (ePPP) makes pathogens substantially more lethal, communicable, immunosuppressive or otherwise capable of triggering a pandemic. We briefly relay an existing argument that the benefits of ePPP research do not outweigh its risks and then consider why proponents of these arguments continue to confidently endorse them. We argue that these endorsements may well be the product of common cognitive biases—in which case they would provide no challenge to the argument against ePPP research. If the case against ePPP research is strong, the views of professional experts do little to move the needle in favour of ePPP research.
Opacity, difference and not knowing: what can psychiatry learn from the work of Édouard Glissant?
Authors: Strand Mattias
Published: January 2024

Martinican poet, novelist and cultural theorist Édouard Glissant (1928–2011) rejected contemporary simplistic notions of creole hybridity popularised in the 1980s and 1990s in favour of a unique and explicitly antiessentialist construct of Caribbeanness—a form of being that embraces place while shunning any associated ideas of rootednesss. Throughout his work, there is a constant tension between the local and the global, the particular and the universal, the essentialist and the homogenising, a tension that is never resolved but used creatively to stake out an emergent third position against a backdrop of a metaphorical Caribbean seascape. The purpose of this article is to shed light on a central idea developed by Glissant: the importance of acknowledging opacity in the encounter with the Other, in contrast to idealised notions of transparency as inherently desirable. This ‘right to opacity’ has been embraced in poststructural theory, postcolonial activism and contemporary art. However, I argue that opacity is also a highly relevant notion in clinical contexts, as an essential resource for understanding concepts such as first-person, second-person and third-person perspectives in the phenomenology of mental health and illness. For illustration, I point to a number of clinical tools and approaches—such as the Cultural Formulation Interview, Therapeutic Assessment and the employment of a not-knowing stance in mentalisation-based treatment—that successfully incorporate a respect for opacity as a core value in the clinician-patient encounter. This article is not an attempt to offer a definitive how-to guide on how to make use of the ideas of Édouard Glissant in the clinic; instead, I hope to inspire further discussion about how various notions of opacity and transparency come into play for mental health practitioners and how acknowledging alterity and difference may contribute to more fruitful and respectful ways of engaging with the patient-as-Other.
Challenging the gold standard: the limitations of molecular assays for detection ofMycobacterium tuberculosisheteroresistance
Authors: Danchuk Sarah N , Solomon Ori E , Kohl Thomas Andreas , Dreyer Viola , Barilar Ivan , Utpatel Christian , Niemann Stefan , Soolingen Dick van , Anthony Richard , van Ingen Jakko , Michael Joy S , Behr Marcel A
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Heteroresistant infections are defined as infections in which a mixture of drug-resistant and drug-susceptible populations are present. InMycobacterium tuberculosis(M. tb), heteroresistance poses a challenge in diagnosis and has been linked with poor treatment outcomes. We compared the analytical sensitivity of molecular methods, such as GeneXpert and whole genome sequencing (WGS) in detecting heteroresistance when compared with the ‘gold standard’ phenotypic assay: the agar proportion method (APM).

Methods

Using two rounds of proficiency surveys with defined monoresistant BCG strains and mixtures of susceptible/resistantM. tb, we determined the limit of detection (LOD) of known resistance associated mutations.

Results

The LOD for rifampin-R (RIF-R) detection was 1% using APM, 60% using GeneXpert MTB/RIF, 10% using GeneXpert MTB/RIF Ultra and 10% using WGS. While WGS could detect mutations beyond those associated with RIF resistance, the LOD for these other mutations was also 10%. Additionally, we observed instances where laboratories did not report resistance in the majority population, yet the mutations were present in the raw sequence data.

Conclusion

The gold standard APM detects minority resistant populations at a lower proportion than molecular tests.Mycobacterium bovisBCG strains with defined resistance and extracted DNA fromM. tbprovided concordant results and can serve in quality control of laboratories offering molecular testing for resistance. Further research is required to determine whether the higher LOD of molecular tests is associated with negative treatment outcomes.