bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evidence of subgroup differences in meta‐analyses evaluating medications for alcohol use disorder: An umbrella review
Authors: Wallach Joshua D. , Glick Laura , Gueorguieva Ralitza , O'Malley Stephanie S.
Published: November 2023

Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) evaluating medications for alcohol use disorder (AUD) often examine heterogeneity of treatment effects through subgroup analyses that contrast effect estimates in groups of patients across individual demographic, clinical, and study design‐related characteristics. However, these analyses are often not prespecified or adequately powered, highlighting the potential role of subgroup analyses in meta‐analysis. Here, we conducted an umbrella review (i.e., a systematic review of meta‐analyses) to determine the range and characteristics of reported subgroup analyses in meta‐analyses of AUD medications. We searched PubMed to identify meta‐analyses of RCTs evaluating medications for the management of AUD, alcohol abuse, or alcohol dependence in adults. We sought studies that measured drinking‐related outcomes; quality of life, function, and rates of mortality; adverse events; and dropout. We considered meta‐analyses that reported the results from formal subgroup analyses (comparing the summary effects across subgroup levels); summary effect estimates stratified across subgroup levels; and meta‐regression, regression, or correlation‐based subgroup analyses. We analyzed nine meta‐analyses that included 61 formal subgroup analyses (median = 6 per meta‐analysis), of which 33 (54%) were based on baseline participant‐level and 28 (46%) were based on trial‐level characteristics. Of the 58 subgroup analyses with either a p‐value from a subgroup test or a statement by the authors that the subgroup analyses were not statistically significant, eight (14%) were statistically significant at the p < 0.05 level. Twelve meta‐analyses reported the results of 102 meta‐regression analyses, of which 25 (25%) identified statistically significant predictors of the relevant outcome of interest; nine (9%) were based on baseline participant‐level and 93 (91%) were based on trial characteristics. Subgroup analyses across meta‐analyses of AUD medications often focus on study‐level characteristics, which may not be as clinically informative as subgroup analyses based on participant‐level characteristics. Opportunities exist for future meta‐analyses to standardize their subgroup methodology, focus on more clinically informative participant‐level characteristics, and use predictive approaches to account for multiple relevant variables.
Histochemical analysis, smooth muscle immunolocalization and volumetric density of the elastic system fibres of the ostrich (Struthio camelus) phallus
Authors: Corrêa Lanna Beatriz Neves Silva , dos Santos Clarice Machado , Abidu‐Figueiredo Marcelo , De Brito‐Gitirana Lycia , Chagas Mauricio Alves
Published: November 2023

There are few scientific reports on the histology of the phallus of ratite birds. The aim of this study was to conduct a histochemical analysis to determine the distribution of smooth muscle cells and the volumetric density (Vv) of the fibres of the elastic system in the ostrich phallus. Adult ostriches, 14 months old, were used. The phalluses were fixed in Bouin's solution and then transferred to a buffered formalin solution. They were then processed using standard histological stains for paraffin and slices were obtained. The following techniques were performed: HE, Picrosirius red, Alcian Blue at pH 1.0 and 2.5. The Periodic acid‐Schiff reagent and Weigert's Resorcin‐Fuchsin with previous oxidation were performed. The M42 test system was used to quantify the elastic system fibres. For immunohistochemical analysis, an anti alpha smooth muscle actin monoclonal antibody was used. The surface of the phallus is covered by a non‐keratinized stratified squamous epithelium, which becomes stratified cylindrical in the region of the spermatic sulcus. No glands associated with the connective tissue were observed. The Vv of the elastic system fibres was 4.75%. Smooth muscle cells were visualized only in the walls of blood vessels through immunostaining, with an absence in the lymphatic sinuses. Despite similarities with other birds, such as the presence of a fibrous external axis, a lymphatic core, and a spermatic groove, the ostrich phallus shows marked differences, including the absence of an elastic core, a non‐keratinized lining epithelium, and the absence of glands throughout its extension.
The effect of anterior quadratus lumborum block on morphine consumption in minimally invasive colorectal surgery: a multicentre, double‐blind, prospective randomised placebo‐controlled trial
Authors: Coppens S. , Somville A. , Hoogma D. F. , Dewinter G. , Neyrinck A. , Desmet M. , Vandebroek A. , D'Hoore A. , Wolthuis A. , Bislenghi G. , Fieuws S. , Rex S.
Published: November 2023

We investigated the efficacy and safety of a bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum block in patients undergoing minimally invasive colorectal surgery. This was a two‐centre, double‐blind, prospective, randomised, placebo‐controlled trial including 150 patients undergoing laparoscopic colorectal surgery (left‐ or right hemicolectomy, sigmoidectomy) who were enrolled in the institutional abdominal enhanced recovery programme. Before induction of anaesthesia, patients received a bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum block in the left and right lateral decubitus position under ultrasound guidance and were allocated randomly to receive 30 ml of ropivacaine 0.375% (n = 75) or placebo (saline 0.9%) (n = 75) bilaterally. Postoperatively, all patients received multimodal intravenous analgesia including paracetamol, ketorolac and patient‐controlled analgesia with morphine. The primary outcome was morphine consumption during the first 24 h after tracheal extubation. Secondary outcomes included severity of pain; presence and extent of sensory block; incidence of postoperative nausea and vomiting; and hospital duration of stay. We also investigated the need for, and dose of, rescue analgesia. Safety outcomes included the incidence of adverse events. Mean (SD) 24‐hour morphine consumption was no different between patients allocated to ropivacaine and placebo (28.6 (22.3) mg vs. 28.4 (22.5) mg, p = 0.966, respectively). While a sensory block could be detected in significantly more patients allocated to the ropivacaine group, no differences were detected in pain scores or other secondary or safety endpoints. Patient satisfaction scores were high in both groups. In laparoscopic colorectal surgery, adding a bilateral anterior quadratus lumborum block to a standard multimodal analgesia regimen did not reduce opioid consumption or improve pain scores.
Risk of venous thromboembolism in pregnant patients with active malignancy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Folkins Sara , Miller Ashley , Nash Christopher M.
Published: November 2023

Introduction

Cancer currently occurs in about 1 in 1000 pregnancies. Both active malignancy and pregnancy are individual risk factors for venous thromboembolism (VTE). The purpose of this systematic review/meta‐analysis was to evaluate the rate of VTE in pregnant patients with active malignancy compared with pregnant patients without malignancy.

Material and methods

Embase, Medline/PubMed, Cochrane Database, and clinicaltrial.gov were search by a trained librarian from inception until June 2021, and limited to English and French language human studies using keywords related to pregnancy, neoplasm, and thrombosis. This study was prospectively registered with PROSPERO (CRD42021245886). Title, abstract, and full‐text review was performed using the Covidence data management system. Two authors reviewed the studies independently. Of the 3821 articles screened, seven cohort studies were included that reported VTE rate in patients with active malignancy in pregnancy.

Results

A total of 5928 individuals had active malignancy and pregnancy. Active malignancy in pregnancy significantly increased the odds of a VTE (odds ratio [OR] 6.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] 3.8–12.1). Specifically, patients with thyroid (OR 2.7, 95% CI 1.3–6.3), cervix (OR 6.6, 95% CI 2.4–18.0), or other gynecological (OR 10.6, 95% CI 4.4–25.8) cancers; Hodgkin's lymphoma (OR 8.7, 95% CI 3.3–23.4); or acute leukemia (OR 17.1, 95% CI 10.9–26.8) all had increased odds, whereas those with brain cancer (OR 6.1, 95% CI 0.4–98.2), breast cancer (OR 2.5, 95% CI 0.3–17.4), malignant melanoma (OR 5.5, 95% CI 0.3–88.1), or non‐Hodgkin's lymphoma (OR 3.2, 95% CI 0.8–12.9) malignancies did not have statistically significant increased odds for VTE. No studies reported whether prophylactic anticoagulation was used during pregnancy in this population; nor did they report timing in pregnancy of the VTE. The absolute risk for VTE in those with active malignancy was 0.9% compared with 0.2% in those without active malignancy in pregnancy.

Conclusions

Pregnancy with active malignancy confers a significant increased risk for VTE compared with pregnancy alone. Given this finding, prophylactic anticoagulation during pregnancy and postpartum could be considered in this patient population. Data are underpowered to make firm recommendations per cancer type.
The lived experience of immigrant parents of disabled adolescents and young adults transitioning into adulthood: A narrative inquiry
Authors: Nyikach Dominic Andrew , Hansen Ketil Lenert
Published: November 2023

Background

Immigrant parents' perspectives on raising adolescents and young adults with intellectual disabilities during the transition to adulthood are the focus of this study. Disabled children demand more care and support as they mature and transition to adulthood. This increased care demand places significant stress on parents' wellbeing and participation in social and economic activities.

Methods

Qualitative interviews were undertaken with purposively sampled immigrant parents of adolescents and young adults with intellectual disabilities transitioning into adulthood. The study used inductive thematic analysis to identify common themes across the data set.

Findings

The birth of their disabled child marked a new beginning in a family's life, characterised first by shock and later by acceptance. Informants experienced challenges associated with language and information access, reduced service, social isolation, skewed gender roles and worrying about their children's future.

Conclusions

The intersection between migration and disability can aggravate the care burden. Knowledge about parents' experiences is crucial for designing rehabilitation programmes, promoting wellbeing and bridging gaps between services recommended by service providers and the actual needs of the family and child.
On the limits of rational expectations for policy analysis
Authors: Eichenbaum Martin
Published: November 2023

In this lecture, I review work addressing three questions. First, are predictions about macro stabilization policies robust to reasonable departures from rational expectations? Second, do people's expectations converge to a particular set of rational expectations? Third, if they do converge, how quickly? I discuss examples from the literature where the answer to the first question is no. The answer to the second question is that learning equilibria converge to the “standard” rational equilibria analyzed in new Keynesian models. Finally, I discuss circumstances under which the answer to the third question is very slowly. In the examples, learning is slowest and policy analysis based on rational expectations is least robust in the face of shocks that render the stakes of getting policy “right” the highest.
Does the Self‐Reported Behavioural Automaticity Index provide a valid measure of toothbrushing behaviour in adults?
Authors: Raison Heather , Harris Rebecca V.
Published: November 2023

Background

Studies to promote regular toothbrushing usually rely on self‐reports of toothbrushing frequency (SRF). However, toothbrushing frequency measures may be open to responder bias since twice‐daily toothbrushing is a commonly accepted social norm. The validity of SRF measures is unclear, meaning that their use as outcomes in interventional work may be flawed. The study's aim was to compare two different self‐reported toothbrushing measures: SRF and the Self‐Reported Behavioural Automaticity Index (SRBAI); with measurement of observed toothbrushing frequency tracked over 6 weeks. A secondary aim was to explore the interaction effect of various moderators (age, ethnicity, socioeconomic status (SES), sex, self‐efficacy, participant personality and routine preference) upon the correlation between SRBAI and observed toothbrushing frequency.

Methods

One hundred and sixty‐four adults were recruited via a number of different community groups and workplaces outside the dental setting. After consent, participants completed a questionnaire which collected demographic and participant characteristics measures (age, ethnicity, SES, sex, self‐efficacy, participant personality and routine preference) and self‐reported toothbrushing habits. Participants then attached a ‘Brushlink’ device to their toothbrush for 6 weeks to track their observed toothbrushing frequency.

Results

Using the Pearson correlation coefficient, a moderately strong positive linear association (r = 0.65) between SRBAI and observed toothbrushing frequency was found. By comparison, the correlation between SRF and observed toothbrushing frequency was weak (r = 0.39). There was a weak positive association between self‐reported behaviour frequency and SRBAI score (r = 0.35). Using multivariable linear regression, no statistically significant interactional effect was demonstrated for any moderator variable upon the correlation coefficient of SRBAI and observed toothbrushing frequency.

Conclusions

The SRBAI provided a stronger association with observed toothbrushing frequency than the SRF measure. A moderately strong relationship between SRBAI and observed toothbrushing frequency was found, compared to a weak positive relationship between self‐reported behaviour frequency and SRBAI score. This suggests that the SRBAI score could be a suitable proxy to measure observed toothbrushing behaviour and preferable to SRF in interventional work.
Distinct Profiles for Beliefs About Religion Versus Science
Authors: Metz S. Emlen , Liquin Emily G. , Lombrozo Tania
Published: November 2023

A growing body of research suggests that scientific and religious beliefs are often held and justified in different ways. In three studies with 707 participants, we examine the distinctive profiles of beliefs in these domains. In Study 1, we find that participants report evidence and explanatory considerations (making sense of things) as dominant reasons for beliefs across domains. However, cuing the religious domain elevates endorsement of nonscientific justifications for belief, such as ethical considerations (e.g., believing it encourages people to be good), affiliation (what loved ones believe), and intuition (what feels true in one's heart). Study 2 replicates these differences with specific scientific and religious beliefs held with equal confidence, and documents further domain differences in beliefs’ personal importance, openness to revision, and perceived objectivity. Study 3 replicates these differences, further finding that counter‐consensus beliefs about contentious science topics (such as climate change and vaccination) often have properties resembling religious beliefs, while counter‐religious beliefs about religion (e.g., “There is no God”) have properties that more closely resemble beliefs about science. We suggest that beliefs are held and justified within coherent epistemic frameworks, with individuals using different frameworks in different contexts and domains.
Artificial Intelligence: Exploring utility in detection and typing of fungus with futuristic application in fungal cytology
Authors: Singla Nidhi , Kundu Reetu , Dey Pranab
Published: November 2023

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is an emerging, transforming and revolutionary technology that has captured attention worldwide. It is translating research into precision oncology treatments. AI can analyse large or big data sets requiring high‐speed specialized computing solutions. The data are big in terms of volume and multimodal with the amalgamation of images, text and structure. Machine learning has identified antifungal drug targets, and taxonomic and phylogenetic classification of fungi based on sequence analysis is now available. Real‐time identification tools and user‐friendly mobile applications for identifying fungi have been discovered. Akin to histopathology, AI can be applied to fungal cytology. AI has been fruitful in cytopathology of the thyroid gland, breast, urine and uterine cervical lesions. AI has a huge scope in fungal cytology and would certainly bear fruit with its accuracy, reproducibility and capacity for handling big data. The purpose of this systematic review was to highlight the AI's utility in detecting fungus and its typing with a special focus on future application in fungal cytology. We also touch upon the basics of AI in brief.
Colonizing polar environments: thermal niche evolution in Collembola
Authors: Escribano‐Álvarez Pablo , Martinez Pablo A. , Janion‐Scheepers Charlene , Pertierra Luis R. , Olalla‐Tárraga Miguel Á.
Published: November 2023

Temperature is a primary driver to define the ecophysiological activity and performance of ectotherms. Thus, thermal tolerance limits have a profound effect in determining geographic ranges. In regions with extreme cold temperatures, lower thermal limits of species are a key physiological trait for survival. Moreover, thermal niche breadth also plays an important role in allowing organisms to withstand climatic variability and confers species with broader potential to establish in new regions. Here we study the evolution of thermal tolerance limits among Collembola (Arthropoda) and explore how they are affected by the colonization of polar environments. In addition, we test the hypothesis that globally invasive species are more eurythermal than non‐invasive ones. Critical thermal limits (CTmin and CTmax), classic measurements of thermal tolerance, were compiled from the literature and complemented with experimental assays for springtail species. Genetic data of the mitochondrial gene cytochrome oxidase subunit 1 (COI) was used to assemble a phylogeny. Our results show that polar springtails have lower CTmin and lower CTmax compared to species from temperate and tropical regions, consistent with the Polar pressure hypothesis. We found no phylogenetic signal for CTmax, but low values of phylogenetic signal for CTmin. Globally invasive species do not have significantly broader thermal tolerance breadth (CTrange) than non‐invasive ones, thus not supporting the predictions of the Eurythermality hypothesis. We conclude that polar springtails have evolved their thermal niches in order to adapt to extremely cold environments, which has led to decreasing both upper and lower thermal tolerance limits.
Eurycoma longifolia (Tongkat Ali) enhances wakefulness during active periods but facilitates sleep during resting periods in C57BL/6 mice
Authors: Ono Taisuke , Nishino Naoya , Iwai Yusuke , Iwai Yumi , Sakai Noriaki , Kuroki Yutaka , Nishino Seiji
Published: November 2023

The effects of the Eurycoma longifolia (also known as Tongkat Ali [TA]) on sleep and wakefulness was evaluated in C57BL/6 mice. While TA has been used as an aphrodisiac in males, it exhibits various pharmacological effects. The most notable effect observed with TA was wake‐enhancement during the second half of the active period, accompanied by significant elevations in core body temperature (CBT). In contrast, sleep was enhanced during the resting period (i.e., increase in rapid eye movement [REM] sleep and delta electroencephalography [EEG] power in non‐REM sleep) with significant declines in CBT. The transition of TA's effects between resting and active periods was rapid. The results of the experiments in constant darkness indicate that TA prolongs the circadian tau and that this transition is governed by circadian clock mechanisms rather than light exposure. TA did not demonstrate efficacy in aiding sleep in an acute stress‐induced insomnia model; thus, TA may be more suitable as a wake‐enhancing agent for daytime sleepiness, as sleep propensity tends to accumulate towards the end of active period. Since TA amplifies the rest‐activity pattern, prolongs circadian tau and increases REM sleep, thereby reversing some common symptoms seen in elderly subjects, it may also hold promise as a rejuvenating medicine.
Genetic and environmental drivers of migratory behavior in western burrowing owls and implications for conservation and management
Authors: Barr Kelly , Bossu Christen M. , Bay Rachael A. , Anderson Eric C. , Belthoff Jim , Trulio Lynne A. , Chromczak Debra , Wisinski Colleen L. , Smith Thomas B. , Ruegg Kristen C.
Published: November 2023

Migration is driven by a combination of environmental and genetic factors, but many questions remain about those drivers. Potential interactions between genetic and environmental variants associated with different migratory phenotypes are rarely the focus of study. We pair low coverage whole genome resequencing with a de novo genome assembly to examine population structure, inbreeding, and the environmental factors associated with genetic differentiation between migratory and resident breeding phenotypes in a species of conservation concern, the western burrowing owl (Athene cunicularia hypugaea). Our analyses reveal a dichotomy in gene flow depending on whether the population is resident or migratory, with the former being genetically structured and the latter exhibiting no signs of structure. Among resident populations, we observed significantly higher genetic differentiation, significant isolation‐by‐distance, and significantly elevated inbreeding. Among migratory breeding groups, on the other hand, we observed lower genetic differentiation, no isolation‐by‐distance, and substantially lower inbreeding. Using genotype–environment association analysis, we find significant evidence for relationships between migratory phenotypes (i.e., migrant versus resident) and environmental variation associated with cold temperatures during the winter and barren, open habitats. In the regions of the genome most differentiated between migrants and residents, we find significant enrichment for genes associated with the metabolism of fats. This may be linked to the increased pressure on migrants to process and store fats more efficiently in preparation for and during migration. Our results provide a significant contribution toward understanding the evolution of migratory behavior and vital insight into ongoing conservation and management efforts for the western burrowing owl.
Biological lessons for strategic resistance management
Authors: Blumstein Daniel T. , Johnson Norman A. , Katz Nurit D. , Kharpatin Samuel , Ortiz‐Ross Xochitl , Parra Eliseo , Reshke Amanda
Published: November 2023

Biological resistance to pesticides, vaccines, antibiotics, and chemotherapies creates huge costs to society, including extensive morbidity and mortality. We simultaneously face costly resistance to social changes, such as those required to resolve human–wildlife conflicts and conserve biodiversity and the biosphere. Viewing resistance as a force that impedes change from one state to another, we suggest that an analysis of biological resistance can provide unique and potentially testable insights into understanding resistance to social changes. We review key insights from managing biological resistance and develop a framework that identifies seven strategies to overcome resistance. We apply this framework to consider how it might be used to understand social resistance and generate potentially novel hypotheses that may be useful to both enhance the development of strategies to manage resistance and modulate change in socio‐ecological systems.
Complications of orotracheal intubation in the horse
Authors: Burns Patrick M.
Published: November 2023

Difficulty to extubate any patient is not a problem commonly thought of during general anaesthesia. This case report describes some of the factors that lead to this predicament and the successful surgical removal of the endotracheal tube via a tracheostomy. This case report also highlights some of the deficiencies in the clinical practice of veterinary anaesthesia. Further research is required for the selection size criteria of endotracheal tubes in all species and the monitoring of cuff pressures during general anaesthesia.
Toothbrushing‐induced vestibular ulcerations with severe gingival defects
Authors: Liu Beili , Cao Jie , Lu Weiqing , Yao Hui
Published: November 2023

Background

Daily toothbrushing is a routine approach for helping to keep the oral cavity healthy. However, using a toothbrush as an ordinary oral hygiene habit can also lead to adverse events.

Case Presentation

A 75‐year‐old man was referred by a periodontist for vestibular ulcerations with gingival defects. The patient reported no significant medical or social history, which might be associated with his symptoms. On examination, wide labio‐buccal gingival defects, white attached gingiva and linear vestibular ulcerations were observed. With the help of the periodontist, a diagnosis of inappropriate toothbrushing‐induced traumatic ulcerations was reasoned via an approach of aetiological elimination. The patient was put on a trial course of topical dexamethasone powder with lincomycin. The resolution of vestibular ulcerations was apparent after two weeks. He reported no similar oral ulcerations during the following nine years.

Conclusion

To our knowledge, this is the first case reported in the literature of vestibular ulcerations with severe gingival defects caused by inappropriate toothbrushing. The establishment of a correct diagnosis needs a close collaboration between periodontists and oral medicine specialists. Instruction on correct toothbrushing, especially for older people can be beneficial.
IWP‐2 modulates the immunomodulatory properties of human dental pulp stem cells in vitro
Authors: Chansaenroj Ajjima , Kornsuthisopon Chatvadee , Suwittayarak Ravipha , Rochanavibhata Sunisa , Loi Lai‐Keng , Lin Yu‐Cheng , Osathanon Thanaphum
Published: November 2023

Aim

To investigate the effect of IWP‐2, Wnt inhibitor, on human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) responses.

Methodology

hDPSCs were isolated from human dental pulp tissues. Cells were treated with 25 μM IWP‐2 for 24 h, and subsequently, the gene expression profile was examined using high‐throughput RNA sequencing. The mRNA expression was analysed using qPCR. The effect of IWP‐2 was investigated in both normal and LPS‐induced hDPSCs (inflamed hDPSCs). CD4+ T cells and CD14+ monocyte‐derived macrophages were cultured with conditioned media of IWP‐2 treated hDPSCs to observe the immunosuppressive property.

Results

RNA sequencing indicated that IWP‐2 significantly downregulated several KEGG pathways, including cytokine‐cytokine receptor interaction, IL‐17 signalling pathway, and TNF signalling pathway. In both normal and inflamed conditions, IWP‐2 markedly upregulated TGFB1 mRNA expression while the mRNA expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, TNFA, IL1B, IFNG, and IL6, was inhibited. In the inhibition experiment, the pretreatment with p38, MAPK, or PI3K inhibitors abolished the effects of IWP‐2 in LPS‐induced inflammation. In terms of immune cells, IWP‐2‐treated‐inflamed hDPSCs conditioned media attenuated T cell proliferation and regulated regulatory T cell differentiation. In addition, the migratory property of macrophage was decreased after being exposed to IWP‐2‐treated inflamed hDPSCs conditioned media.

Conclusion

IWP‐2 suppressed inflammatory cytokine expression in both normal and inflamed hDPSCs. Moreover, hDPSCs exerted the immunosuppressive property after IWP‐2 treatment. These results suggest the role of Wnt in inflammatory responses and immunomodulation in dental pulp tissues.
Exploring effect of M2 macrophages on experimental full‐thickness wound healing in streptozotocin‐induced diabetic rats
Authors: Khoshnoudi Parmis , Sabiza Soroush , Khosravi Mohammad , Mohamadian Babak
Published: November 2023

Diabetes mellitus is one of the most prevalent medical conditions, in both humans and animals. People with diabetes mellitus often experience slower than normal wound healing, making it a serious health concern. This study investigates the effect of M2 differentiated macrophages on full‐thickness wound healing in white Westar rats exposed to streptozocin 70 mg/kg. A full‐thickness skin defect with dimensions of 2 × 2 cm was created on the back of all the animals, and their blood sugar was simultaneously assessed. The monocytes were isolated from blood samples using the plastic adherence method and were exposed to dexamethasone (5–10 μ) for 24 h. Subsequently, they were washed with PBS and incubated in fresh cell culture medium for 5 days. The differentiated M2 cells were injected into four points of the experimental ulcers of the treatment group. Macroscopic and microscopic changes were evaluated and compared over a period of two weeks between the test and control groups. The infusion of these cells a few days after wounding enhances wound healing parameters significantly, as evidenced by an increase in germinating tissue formation, wound contraction, inflammation reduction, and collagen increase in the treated group.
Mapping sustainability practices in the healthcare sector: A systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Rahat Nazish , Sahni Shalini , Nasim Saboohi
Published: November 2023

Sustainable healthcare means providing affordable, quality medical care without causing undue environmental damage, which is critical for a world just emerging from a debilitating pandemic. This article contends that it is now an opportune time to map the existing knowledge to guide future sustainability research in healthcare. Therefore, this article aims to systematically review and comprehensively analyse the extant literature on sustainability practices in healthcare organizations and propose future research directions based on gaps in the literature. A corpus of 79 articles sourced from five databases and published between 1995 and 2022 was identified for an in‐depth review. Following a framework‐based systematic literature review, this article offers an organized, retrospective view of the performance using antecedents, decisions, and outcomes (ADO) and Theories–Contexts–Methods (TCM) integrated framework. These frameworks are used to evaluate and understand sustainability practices in the healthcare sector. Additionally, the article shows the thematic evolution of sustainability research in healthcare with the help of five clusters. While the systematic literature review results highlight the large theoretical base, it also reveals the lack of consensus on defining sustainability. The analysis of 79 articles yielded six valuable categories of antecedents with 27 constructs, five categories of decisions with 11 constructs, and two categories of outcomes with 15 constructs. Results also reveal a lack of consensus regarding the influence of sustainability practices on organizational performance across the three sustainability pillars (social, environmental, and economic dimensions). The present review has implications for healthcare service delivery systems and policymakers to help them redesign their services to promote sustainable development goals. Before concluding the article, knowledge gaps and future research directions are structured using the ADO‐TCM framework through pertinent ideas for sustainability research in healthcare organizations.
Striae distensae treatment: evaluating laser efficacy and safety
Authors: Menashe Shaked , Heller Lior
Published: November 2023

Background

Striae distensae (SD) are common skin lesions that are difficult to treat and affect quality of life. Laser and light are emerging non‐invasive therapies that have proven successful in treating SD. Recently, hybrid laser devices offering simultaneous fractional ablative and non‐ablative laser treatment have been reported to benefit various skin conditions.

Objective

To evaluate the improvement of SD treated with a hybrid laser system and to analyze associations with patient characteristics.

Methods

We performed a retrospective study in which 28 adults with SD were treated with a hybrid laser device. Efficacy was evaluated by the assessment of aesthetic improvement by the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) of 1–10 and by patients' satisfaction using a scale of 0–10 satisfaction scale. Pain and adverse events were monitored. Statistical analysis was used to examine the potential impact of various factors on treatment outcomes.

Results

The mean GAIS score was 7.36 ± 1.06 with a positive correlation with patient satisfaction (r = 0.685) and a weak negative correlation with patient age (r = −0.0057). Skin type and body area did not show significant associations with GAIS scores (P > 0.05 for both). No adverse events were observed.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the potential of the hybrid laser system as a safe and effective method to achieve satisfactory aesthetic results with minimal downtime, making it a promising treatment approach for SD. Treatment outcomes were independent of patient characteristics, further supporting its widespread use.
Urinary markers for bladder cancer diagnosis: A review of current status and future challenges
Authors: Tomiyama Eisuke , Fujita Kazutoshi , Hashimoto Mamoru , Uemura Hirotsugu , Nonomura Norio
Published: November 2023

Bladder cancer is a common urological cancer with a high recurrence rate that requires long‐term follow‐up, and early detection positively affects prognosis. To date, the initial diagnosis and follow‐up for bladder cancer rely on cystoscopy, which is an invasive and expensive procedure. Therefore, urinary markers for the detection of bladder cancer have attracted research attention for decades to reduce unnecessary cystoscopies. Urine, which is in continuous contact with bladder cancer, is considered a suitable fluid for providing tumor information. Urinary cytology is the only widely used urinary marker in clinical practice; however, it has poor sensitivity for low‐grade tumors; indicating the need for novel urinary markers. Considerable research has been conducted on this topic over the years, resulting in a complex landscape with a wide range of urinary markers, including protein‐, exfoliated cell‐, RNA‐, DNA‐, and extracellular vesicle‐based markers. Although some of these markers have been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and are commercially available, their use in clinical practice is limited. To facilitate clinical application, potential urinary markers must withstand prospective clinical trials and be easy for patients and clinicians to understand and utilize in a clinical context. This review provides a comprehensive overview of currently available and recently reported promising urinary markers for bladder cancer. Additionally, the challenges and the prospects of these urinary markers for clinical implementation in bladder cancer treatment were discussed.
Change and stability of migration intentions. Evidence from Italy
Authors: Barbiano di Belgiojoso Elisa , Bonifazi Corrado , Ortensi Livia Elisa , Paparusso Angela
Published: November 2023

Due to a lack of relevant data, very few empirical studies have examined the changes in and stability of secondary migration intentions. We aim to fill this gap by analysing return migration intentions among international migrants in Italy. Data are drawn from the cross‐sectional SCIF survey conducted by ISTAT in 2011–2012. Our findings reveal that migration intentions at the beginning of the migratory experience tend to differ from those measured at more advanced migration stages (i.e. at the time of the survey). In particular, intentions to return seem less stable than intentions to stay. When confirming intentions to return or remain, critical factors include financial stability, family situation and ties with the country of origin and destination. Additionally, having an Italian partner, a partner living in Italy, and a positive self‐assessed family financial condition are positively associated with transitioning from a temporary plan to a permanent settlement intention.
September 2002: 24‐year‐old female with a 6‐month history of seizures
Authors: Lamszus Katrin , Makrigeorgi‐Butera Maria , Laas Rudolf , West‐Phal Manfred , Stavrou Dimitrios
Published: November 2023

Cases of the Month, July to September, 2002

The July 2002 Case of the Month (COM). This 66‐year‐old Caucasian female presented with gradually increasing protrusion of her left eye over a one‐year period. She complained of increased tearing and foreign body sensation. The physical examination revealed a visual acuity of 20/20, normal color testing, full vision field with motility of her left eye limited in lateral gaze. Pupils were round, symmetric, with no afferent pupillary defect noted. On external examination, her left eye was grossly proptotic with resistance to retropulsion. She had 4 mm proptosis of the left eye. Computed tomography and MR imaging demonstrated a left retro‐orbital mass with gadolinium enhancement and focal remodeling of orbital bones. She underwent surgical resection of tumor with a diagnosis of solitary fibrous tumor, and postoperatively she was symptom free. The histopathological differential diagnoses of spindle cell neoplasms of the orbit are discussed. Five months after surgery, no evidence of tumor recurrence was seen on neuroimaging and her vision was 20/20.

The August 2002 COM. A 21‐year‐old male presented with a single episode of generalized tonic clonic seizures. Radiology revealed a cystic tumor with mural nodule suggestive of a pilocytic astrocytoma. However, histopathological examination and electron microscopy revealed features of an intracerebral schwannoma. Therefore, although rare, in an intracerebral cystic lesion with mural nodule, the possibility of an intracerebral schwannoma should be entertained. This is important because this is a benign tumor with favourable response to resection.

The September 2002 COM. A 24‐year‐old female presented with a history of 3 generalized seizures, the first of which had occurred 6 months before admission. Her neurological examination was normal, but upon admission her MRI showed a small cystic lesion in the left parieto‐occipital region. The lesion was hyper‐intense on T‐2 weighted images and did not show contrast enhancment. At surgery, the tumor was found to be deep to the cortex and was a cyst with amber fluid surrounded by gliotic brain. Microscopically, the tumor was well‐demarcated from the surrounding tissues, which showed reactive changes, including Rosenthal fibers. The tumor was composed of GFAP‐positive glial cells, which were arranged in a pseudopapillary fashion around blood vessels. In between, the tumor cells were positive for neuronal markers. The diagnosis was papillary glioneuronal tumor (PGNT), a relatively recently described lesion that may be a variant of ganglioglioma. The current literature on PGNTs is reviewed.
Measurements of stresses in β‐(Y,Yb)2Si2O7 environmental barrier coating layers using Raman spectroscopy
Authors: Setlur Anant A. , Davis Robert J. , Johnson Curtis A. , Sarrafi‐Nour Reza
Published: November 2023

Residual stress measurements in environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) can help in understanding coating durability and potential damage mechanisms. We demonstrate the capability of Raman spectroscopy to measure average residual stresses in two different β‐RE2Si2O7 (RE = rare earth or Y3+, denoted as REDS) EBCs with a nominal (Yb,Y)2Si2O7 composition, focusing on macroscopic residual stresses acting at macroscopic length scales. Uniaxial compression measurements of dense β‐(Yb,Y)2Si2O7 ceramics are used for calibration curves for applied stress versus Raman peak shift. We use these calibration curves to evaluate the macroscopic thermoelastic residual stress in the (Yb,Y)2Si2O7 layers from coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) mismatch of two different (Yb,Y)2Si2O7‐based EBCs on SiC‐based substrates. Microscopic stress contributions to Raman peak shifts are subtracted using reference free‐standing coatings and analytic estimates for inclusion stresses when (Yb,Y)2Si2O7 coatings have a high, variable volume fraction of (Yb,Y)2SiO5. The macroscopic thermal residual stress in these (Yb,Y)2Si2O7 EBCs is compressive, as expected from the smaller CTE of β‐REDS versus SiC. These thermal residual stresses can vary between different YbYDS EBC coatings by more than a factor of three with a measured layer residual stress of approximately –180 MPa (compressive) for a high modulus, low CTE coating, and our measured values generally agree with calculated estimates.
Larger distribution ranges of seagrasses towards the equator
Authors: Tuya Fernando , Bosch Néstor E. , Rodríguez Laura
Published: November 2023

Aim

The description of species' ranges provides biogeographical information to explain fundamental macroecological and evolutionary processes. In this study, we investigated the Rapoport's rule for the world's seagrasses, that is, whether the range extent of seagrasses increases from the tropics to the poles.

Location

Global.

Taxon

Seagrasses.

Methods

We examined whether four range geographical metrics: the extent of latitudinal and longitudinal ranges, total distribution area (Km2) and the number of marine ecoregions encompassed by seagrass species, changed according to their latitudinal distribution midpoints.

Results

Seagrasses have larger distribution ranges, as indicated by all geographical metrics, close to the equator in both hemispheres, supporting the inverse of the Rapoport's biogeographical pattern.

Main Conclusions

The larger distribution ranges of seagrasses towards equatorial regions may be attributed to their origins during warm geologic periods, and the subsequent longer climatic stability in tropical areas leading to climate niche conservatism constraining seagrass evolution.
Equal Focus on Inequality? Approaches to Distributional Impact Assessment in the National Budget Process Across the EU
Authors: Bazoli Nicola , Fiorio Carlo , Marzadro Sonia , Pycroft Jonathan , Vergolini Loris
Published: November 2023

After four decades of increasing within‐country income inequality in many EU Member States, this study first aims to understand to what extent and how EU Member States make use of distributional impact assessments (DIAs) for budgetary measures. The second aim is to understand the factors that constrain the use of DIA, leading us to propose strategies for how it could be used more widely. To these ends, we perform a desk‐based study of the documents produced in the national budgeting process, which is then followed up with structured key informant interviews with those responsible for producing key budgetary documents in each of the 27 Member States of the EU. We then detail the constraints to performing more DIAs and potential solutions involving actions at both the country and EU levels. This study constitutes the first comprehensive analysis of DIA practices across the EU.
Mechanisms of the Effect of Individual Education on Pro‐European Dispositions
Authors: Fernández Juan J. , Teney Céline , Díez Medrano Juan
Published: November 2023

A burgeoning empirical literature on attitudes towards Europe shows that highly educated individuals are more likely to hold pro‐European dispositions than non‐highly educated individuals. The literature provides structural and cultural accounts for this relationship. The structural account highlights that formal education contributes to earning higher incomes and attaining an upper‐class occupation, which are conducive to pro‐European dispositions. The cultural account instead highlights that formal education instils universalist and non‐traditionalist values in individuals, which are conducive to pro‐European dispositions. This is the first article to assess the relative predictive power of these two approaches. Using structural equation models, Rounds 8–10 of the European Social Survey and three indicators of pro‐European dispositions, this article examines whether socio‐economic location measured by income and upper‐class occupation or commitment to human values measured by universalism and traditionalism mediates this association. All in all, the structural approach receives stronger support than the cultural one.
Cryoprotective effect of soybean oil on surimi gels and the mechanism based on molecular dynamics simulation
Authors: Shen Zhiwen , Gao Huaqian , Peng Wanqi , Wang Faxiang , Liu Yongle , Wu Jinhong , Wang Shaoyun , Li Xianghong
Published: November 2023

The effect of soybean oil (SO) on freeze‐thaw (F‐T)‐treated surimi was investigated and its related mechanism was revealed by molecular dynamics (MD) simulations. The results displayed that SO has a disrupting effect on the structure of fresh samples. However, in the F‐T‐treated samples, surimi gels supplemented with SO had a more uniform microstructure. Simultaneously, when SO was added from 0% to 7% in the F‐T‐treated samples, the gel strength increased from (p < .05), the physically bound water was increased from 92.90% to 94.15% (p < .05), and storage modulus was increased from 5939 to 6523 Pa. Triglycerides of SO generated hydrophobic interactions with myosin mainly in carbon chains. Computational results from MD simulations illustrated that the structure of myosin combined with triglycerides was more stable than that of myosin alone during temperature fluctuations (−20 to 4°C). During ice crystal growth, triglycerides absorbed on the myosin surface inhibited the growth of surrounding ice crystals and mitigated the ice crystal growth rate (from 7.54 to 5.99 cm/s). The addition of SO during the F‐T treatments allowed myosin to be less negatively affected by ice crystal formation and temperature fluctuations and ultimately contributed to the formation of a more uniform network gel structure.
YouTube™ as a source of parents' information for craniosynostosis
Authors: Samur Erguven Sara , Topsakal Kubra Gulnur , Aksoy Merve
Published: November 2023

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the content, reliability and quality levels of YouTube™ videos regarding craniosynostosis for parents' information.

Methods

A keyword search for ‘craniosynostosis’ was conducted on YouTube, and the uniform resource locators of the first 160 videos were initially recorded and evaluated. Ninety‐four videos that met the inclusion criteria were analysed. Each video received a score ranging from 0 to 9 points, classifying them as low‐content (0‐3), moderate‐content (4‐6) and high‐content (7‐9). The reliability scores adapted from DISCERN and Global Quality Scale (GQS) scores were recorded.

Results

The median content score for the videos was 4. According to the content scores, 34% of included videos (n = 32) were classified as low‐content, 60.6% (n = 57) as moderate‐content, and 5.3% (n = 5) as high‐content. The median reliability score for the videos was 3, and the median GQS score was 3. The reliability and quality levels of videos classified as high‐content and moderate‐content were significantly superior to low‐content videos (P < .05). Laypersons were identified as the most frequent source of information in the videos. However, most of the videos lacked information about syndromic/non‐syndromic forms and specific complications. The importance of early referral/timing of surgery and minimally invasive surgical treatment techniques was mentioned in all high‐content videos.

Conclusion

The results of the present study suggest that YouTube™ in its current format, is not a fully trustable source for parents seeking information on craniosynostosis. Craniofacial units must increase the content, quality and reliability level of videos on craniosynostosis.