bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glove-related contact dermatitis: diagnostic value of a repeated application test
Authors: Lamouroux Céline , Bertolotti Léa , Coste Clio , Pralong Pauline , Lefevre Marine-Alexia , Pasteur Justine , Clément Aude , Ferrier Le Bouëdec Marie-Christine , Charbotel Barbara , Fassier Jean-Baptiste , Vocanson Marc , Nicolas Jean-François , Hacard Florence , Nosbaum Audrey
Published: July 2023

Background

Gloves are frequently the cause of occupational hand dermatitis and are responsible for irritant (ICD) and allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). The diagnosis of ACD is based on patch tests to gloves (PTg), semi-open tests to gloves (SOg), and patch tests to glove allergens (PTal).

Objective

The aim was to define the contribution of a glove repeated application test (GRAT) in the diagnosis strategy of glove-related contact dermatitis.

Methods

This retrospective study included patients with hand eczema who wore gloves and who completed a GRAT in the context of allergological explorations. It consisted of applying a piece of the glove maintained by a non-adhesive strip during 10 consecutive nights on the same area of the anterior face of the forearm.

Results

Ten patients were diagnosed with ACD to gloves. This diagnosis was made on positive SOg, PTg, GRAT and PTal for 2 patients, positive PTal and GRAT for 3 patients, positive SOg and GRAT for 2 patients, positive GRAT alone for 2 patients, positive PTal alone for 1 patient. The GRAT had better sensitivity than the other tests.

Conclusion

GRAT seems useful in the diagnostic strategy of glove contact dermatitis and could be proposed when the diagnosis of glove-related contact dermatitis is suspected.
The impact of frailty on the outcomes of COVID-19 patients with persistent critical illness: A population-based cohort study
Authors: Bonavia William , Tiruvoipati Ravindranath , Reddy Mallikarjuna Ponnapa , Pilcher David , Subramaniam Ashwin
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Persistent critical illness (PerCI, ≥10 days in Intensive Care Unit [ICU]) is defined as the time from ICU admission when patients’ antecedent characteristics define their mortality rather than the admission aetiology. Patients with frailty and without COVID-19 have a higher risk of developing and dying from PerCI. We aimed to investigate the impact of frailty on critically ill patients with COVID-19 experiencing PerCI.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective multicentre cohort study including 103 Australian and New Zealand ICUs over two years, investigating the impact of frailty, measured with Clinical Frailty Scale (CFS), in patients with COVID-19, between patients with and without PerCI.

Results

The prevalence of PerCI was similar between patients with and without frailty (25.4% vs. 27.9%; p=0.44). Hospital mortality was higher in patients with PerCI than without (28.8% vs. 9.3%; p<0.001), with mortality rising with increasing CFS (p<0.001). Frailty independently predicted hospital mortality, but when adjusted for ANZROD and sex, its impact was no different in patients with and without PerCI (odds ratio [OR]=1.30 [95%-CI: 1.14-1.49] vs. OR=1.46 [95%-CI: 1.29-1.64]).

Conclusions

The presence of frailty independently predicted hospital mortality in patients with PerCI, but frailty did not have a different impact on patients with and without PerCI.
Characteristics and Prognosis of HHV8-Positive Diffuse Large B-Cell Lymphoma, Not Otherwise Specified: A Population-Based Study
Authors: Wang Fan
Published: July 2023

Background

HHV8-positive diffuse large B-cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified (HDN) is a rare and aggressive lymphoma that usually arises in association with HHV8-positive multicentric Castleman disease. The epidemiology, treatment patterns and survival outcomes of HDN are poorly understood.

Methods

A retrospective analysis was performed for 67 patients with HDN diagnosed from 2011 to 2020 using the SEER database. The clinicopathologic characteristics, treatment modalities and survival outcomes of HDN patients were evaluated. Kaplan-Meier analysis and Cox regression analysis were employed to identify prognostic factors for overall survival (OS) and disease-specific survival (DSS).

Results

The median age at diagnosis was 51.8 years, and 79.1% of patients were male. The primary site distribution was mainly nodal (79.1%), while the extranodal sites were rarely involved (20.9%). The majority of patients were white (65.7%). Only 3.0% of patients received radiotherapy, while 55.2% received chemotherapy. The 1-year, 3-year and 5-year OS was 67.4%, 65.6%, 58.4%, and 56.3%, respectively, and the corresponding DSS was 73.1%, 73.1%, and 67.8%, respectively. The diagnosis year group of 2016-2020 had a significantly worse OS than the diagnosis year group of 2011-2015 (P = 0.040), but not for DSS (P = 0.074). No significant survival improvement was observed in patients underwent chemotherapy. Age and marital status were independent prognostic factors for OS, and age was an independent prognostic factor for DSS.

Conclusions

HDN is a rare and aggressive disease, our study provides a comprehensive overview of the epidemiology, treatment patterns and survival outcomes of HDN patients for the first time. We revealed that older age and marital status of single were associated with worse survival of HDN, while chemotherapy was not associated with improved survival outcomes in HDN patients.
Machine learning prediction of future amyloid beta positivity in amyloid-negative individuals
Authors: Moradi Elaheh , Prakash Mithilesh , Hall Anette , Solomon Alina , Strange Bryan , Tohka Jussi ,   for the Alzheimers Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: July 2023

INTRODUCTION

The pathophysiology of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) involvesβ-amyloid (Aβ) accumulation. Early identification of individuals with abnormalβ-amyloid levels is crucial, but Aβquantification with positron emission tomography (PET) and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) is invasive and expensive.

METHODS

We propose a machine learning framework using standard non-invasive (MRI, demographics, APOE, neuropsychology) measures to predict future Aβ-positivity in Aβ-negative individuals. We separately study Aβ-positivity defined by PET and CSF. RESULTS: Cross-validated AUC for 4-year Aβconversion prediction was 0.78 for the CSF-based and 0.68 for the PET-based Aβdefinitions. Although not trained for the clinical status-change prediction, the CSF-based model excelled in predicting future mild cognitive impairment (MCI)/dementia conversion in cognitively normal/MCI individuals (AUCs, respectively, 0.76 and 0.89 with a separate dataset).

DISCUSSION

Standard measures have potential in detecting future Aβ-positivity and assessing conversion risk, even in cognitively normal individuals. The CSF-based definition led to better predictions than the PET-based definition.
Complex epistatic interactions between ELF3, PRR9, and PRR7 regulates the circadian clock and plant physiology
Authors: Yuan Li , Avello Paula , Zhu Zihao , Lock Sarah C.L , McCarthy Kayla , Redmond Ethan J. , Davis Amanda M. , Song Yang , Ezer Daphne , Pitchford Jonathan W. , Quint Marcel , Xie Qiguang , Xu Xiaodong , Davis Seth J. , Ronald James
Published: July 2023

Circadian clocks are endogenous timekeeping mechanisms that coordinate internal physiological responses with the external environment. EARLY FLOWERING3 (ELF3), PSEUDO RESPONSE REGULATOR (PRR9), and PRR7 are essential components of the plant circadian clock and facilitate entrainment of the clock to internal and external stimuli. Previous studies have highlighted a critical role for ELF3 in repressing the expression ofPRR9andPRR7. However, the functional significance of activity in regulating circadian clock dynamics and plant development is unknown. To explore this regulatory dynamic further, we firstly employed mathematical modelling to simulate the effect of theprr9/prr7mutation on theelf3circadian phenotype. These simulations suggested that simultaneous mutations inprr9/prr7could rescue theelf3circadian arrythmia. Following these simulations, we generated all Arabidopsiself3/prr9/prr7mutant combinations and investigated their circadian and developmental phenotypes. Although these assays could not replicate the results from the mathematical modelling, our results have revealed a complex epistatic relationship between ELF3 and PRR9/7 in regulating different aspects of plant development. ELF3 was essential for hypocotyl development under ambient and warm temperatures, while PRR9 was critical for root thermomorphogenesis. Finally, mutations inprr9andprr7rescued the photoperiod insensitive flowering phenotype of theelf3mutant. Together, our results highlight the importance of investigating the genetic relationship amongst plant circadian genes.
Microfluidic Quaking-Induced Conversion (Micro-QuIC) for Rapid On-Site Amplification and Detection of Misfolded Proteins
Authors: Lee Dong Jun , Christenson Peter R. , Rowden Gage , Lindquist Nathan C. , Larsen Peter A. , Oh Sang-Hyun
Published: July 2023

Protein misfolding diseases, such as prion diseases, Alzheimer’s, and Parkinson’s, share a common molecular mechanism involving the misfolding and aggregation of specific proteins. There is an urgent need for point-of-care (POC) diagnostic technologies that can accurately detect these misfolded proteins, facilitating early diagnosis and intervention. Here, we introduce the Microfluidic Quaking Induced Conversion (Micro-QuIC), a novel acoustofluidic platform for the rapid and sensitive detection of protein misfolding diseases. We demonstrate the utility of our technology using chronic wasting disease (CWD) as a model system, as samples from wild white-tailed deer are readily accessible, and CWD shares similarities with human protein misfolding diseases. Acoustofluidic mixing enables homogeneous mixing of reagents in a high-Reynolds-number regime, significantly accelerating the turnaround time for CWD diagnosis. Our Micro-QuIC assay amplifies prions by an order of magnitude faster than the current gold standard, real-time quaking-induced conversion (RT-QuIC). Furthermore, we integrated Micro-QuIC with a gold nanoparticle-based, naked-eye detection method, which enables visual discrimination between CWD positive and negative samples without the need for a bulky fluorescence detection module. This integration creates a rapid, POC testing platform capable of detecting misfolded proteins associated with a variety of protein misfolding diseases.

TOC graphic
SGIP1 binding to the α-helicalH9domain of cannabinoid receptor 1 promotes axonal surface expression
Authors: Fletcher-Jones Alexandra , Spackman Ellen , Craig Tim J. , Nakamura Yasuko , Wilkinson Kevin A. , Henley Jeremy M.
Published: July 2023

Endocannabinoid signalling mediated by cannabinoid type 1 receptors (CB1Rs) is critical for homeostatic neuromodulation of both excitatory and inhibitory synapses. This requires highly polarised axonal surface expression of CB1R, but how this is achieved remains unclear. We previously reported that theH9domain in the intracellular C-terminus of CB1R contributes to polarised surface expression by an unknown mechanism. Here we show theH9domain binds to the endocytic adaptor protein SGIP1 to promote CB1R expression in the axonal membrane. Overexpression of SGIP1 increases CB1R axonal surface localisation but has no effect on CB1R lacking theH9domain (CB1RΔH9). Conversely, SGIP1 knockdown reduces axonal surface expression of CB1R but does not affect CB1RΔH9. Furthermore, SGIP1 knockdown diminishes CB1R-mediated inhibition of presynaptic Ca2+influx in response to neuronal activity. Together, these data advance mechanistic understanding of endocannabinoid signalling by demonstrating that SGIP1 interaction withH9underpins axonal CB1R surface expression to regulate presynaptic responsiveness.
Crystal structure and Hirshfeld surface analysis of 4-cyano-N-[(4-cyanophenyl)sulfonyl]-N-[2-(5-methylfuran-2-yl)phenyl]benzenesulfonamide
Authors: Mammadova Gunay Z. , Yakovleva Elizaveta D. , Burkin Gleb M. , Khrustalev Victor N. , Akkurt Mehmet , Çelikesir Sevim Türktekin , Bhattarai Ajaya
Published: July 2023

In the title compound, C25H17N3O5S2, intramolecular π–π interactions [centroid-to-centroid distance = 3.5640 (9) Å] are observed between the furan and benzene rings of the 4-cyanophenyl group. In the crystal, molecules are connected via C—H...O and C—H...N hydrogen bonds, forming layers parallel to the (100) plane. These layers are interconnected by C—H...π interactions and weak van der Waals interactions. Hirshfeld surface analysis indicates that H...H (30.2%), N...H/H...N (22.3%), C...H/H...C (17.9%) and O...H/H...O (15.4%) interactions make the most significant contributions to the crystal packing.
Train for the job you want (or will be asked to take): envisioning the doctorate as preparation for equity-minded leadership in higher education
Authors: Pifer Meghan J. , Tevis Tenisha L. , Baker Vicki L.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study, nested within a broader study about higher education leadership, was to generate knowledge about the ways in which doctoral education prepared people for leadership roles in postsecondary institutions within the USA. At colleges and universities, there is an interest in ensuring diverse leadership teams and welcoming campus environments. Yet, the research demonstrates challenges for and underrepresentation among higher education leaders. One point of intervention is doctoral programs in higher education and related fields, given the professional socialization, identity formation and knowledge acquisition that occurs through the doctoral journey.

Design/methodology/approach

By conducting interviews with women who hold doctorates in the field of higher education and who took on new leadership roles at postsecondary institutions in the USA during the global health pandemic, the authors identified specific areas for which doctoral-level training and experiences may be helpful in supporting leader development.

Findings

The authors identified specific areas for which doctoral-level training and experiences may be helpful in supporting leader development. Based on those findings, the authors offer initial propositions about how doctoral programs might support the development of equity-minded leaders in higher education, which should be tested and refined through further research, theory development and application to practice.

Originality/value

This paper contributes by providing a focus on the ways in which doctoral programs can equitably train and develop equity-minded leaders for a range of career goals including but not limited to academic appointments in higher education.
Canada: Political Developments and Data in 2022
Authors: STEWART DAVID K.
Published: July 2023

There was no federal election in Canada in 2022, but the official opposition Conservatives ousted their leader and elected a new one. Additionally, the Liberals and New Democrats signed a Supply and Confidence Agreement that would protect the minority Liberal government from parliamentary defeat until 2025. Despite these significant developments, the major event was a convoy that descended on Ottawa to protest policies related to the COVID‐19 pandemic and was only removed after substantial police action and the declaration of the Emergencies Act.
Transcriptomes of human primary skin fibroblasts of healthy individuals reveal age‐associated mRNAs and long noncoding RNAs
Authors: Tsitsipatis Dimitrios , Martindale Jennifer L. , Mazan‐Mamczarz Krystyna , Herman Allison B. , Piao Yulan , Banskota Nirad , Yang Jen‐Hao , Cui Linna , Anerillas Carlos , Chang Ming‐Wen , Kaileh Mary , Munk Rachel , Yang Xiaoling , Ubaida‐Mohien Ceereena , Chia Chee W. , Karikkineth Ajoy C. , Zukley Linda , D'Agostino Jarod , Abdelmohsen Kotb , Basisty Nathan , De Supriyo , Ferrucci Luigi , Gorospe Myriam
Published: July 2023

Changes in the transcriptomes of human tissues with advancing age are poorly cataloged. Here, we sought to identify the coding and long noncoding RNAs present in cultured primary skin fibroblasts collected from 82 healthy individuals across a wide age spectrum (22–89 years old) who participated in the GESTALT (Genetic and Epigenetic Signatures of Translational Aging Laboratory Testing) study of the National Institute on Aging, NIH. Using high‐throughput RNA sequencing and a linear regression model, we identified 1437 coding RNAs (mRNAs) and 1177 linear and circular long noncoding (lncRNAs) that were differentially abundant as a function of age. Gene set enrichment analysis (GSEA) revealed select transcription factors implicated in coordinating the transcription of subsets of differentially abundant mRNAs, while long noncoding RNA enrichment analysis (LncSEA) identified RNA‐binding proteins predicted to participate in the age‐associated lncRNA profiles. In summary, we report age‐associated changes in the global transcriptome, coding and noncoding, from healthy human skin fibroblasts and propose that these transcripts may serve as biomarkers and therapeutic targets in aging skin.
Haematological parameters of laying hens under different group size
Authors: Osadcha Yuliia
Published: July 2023

The relevance of this study lies in its potential implications for poultry farming practices and animal welfare. Understanding the impact of group size on the blood parameters of hens can provide valuable insights for optimising their health and well‐being in farming environments. The aim of the study was an analysis of haematological parameters of laying hens under the influence group size with the same stoking density in analogous cages by design. Hens were kept for 34 weeks in cages of multilevel batteries at different group sizes: I group—93 birds, II group—52 birds, III group—17 birds and IV group—9 birds. The study analysed blood samples from laying hens at 18 and 52 weeks of age. Results showed that reducing the group size from 93 to 52 birds led to a haematological status within the physiological norm, characterized by increased heterophils and decreased monocyte levels. Whereas, the decrease in group size to 17 birds was accompanied by a decrease in the hens' blood content of thrombocytes, an increase of heterophile, a decrease of monocytes and lymphocytes within the physiological norm, as well as an increase in the heterophiles to lymphocytes ratio.
Coptidis rhizoma and evodiae fructus against lipid droplet deposition in nonalcoholic fatty liver disease‐related liver cancer by AKT
Authors: Li Shenghao , Hao Liyuan , Deng Jiali , Zhang Junli , Hu Xiaoyu
Published: July 2023

Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is the most common liver disease in the world. NAFLD has become one of the major factors contributing to hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) development. However, there are no clear targets and therapeutic drugs for NAFLD‐related liver cancer. This study explored the active compounds, target and mechanism of coptidis rhizoma and evodiae fructus in the treatment of NAFLD‐related liver cancer based on the network pharmacology and experimental verification. There were 455 intersection targets of NAFLD‐related liver cancer, and 65 drug‐disease common targets. AKT1 has the highest degree, indicating that it may be a key target of coptidis rhizoma and evodiae fructus in the treatment of NAFLD‐related liver cancer. The expression level of AKT1 was high in high‐risk group, and the overall survival rate was lower than that in low‐risk group. After oleic acid induction, p‐AKT expression and lipid droplet deposition were promoted in HepG2 cells. Quercetin and resveratrol reduced lipid droplet deposition in vivo. Moreover, quercetin inhibited p‐AKT expression, resveratrol both reduced the expression of p‐AKT and AKT. The overall findings suggested that quercetin inhibited AKT in the treatment of NAFLD‐related liver cancer.
Association of crown emergence angle and profile with dental plaque and inflammation at dental implants
Authors: Pelekos George , Chin Bonnie , Wu Xinyu , Fok Melissa R. , Shi Junyu , Tonetti Maurizio S.
Published: July 2023

Background

The shape of implant restorations is critical for function and aesthetics. It may also be important in peri‐implant tissue health preservation. This study aimed to associate the restorative contour of a single crown with marginal dental plaque accumulation, tissue inflammation and probing depths.

Methods

Subjects with a single screw‐retained implant restoration were clinically examined. The presence of dental biofilm, tissue inflammation and probing pocket depths were the dependent variables. The emergence angle, profile and depth of the mucosal tunnel were measured on superimposed digital scans of the crown soft‐tissue complex, the removed crown mounted on an analogue and the soft tissue.

Results

One hundred twenty two subjects (46.7% female, 68.9% never smokers, 77% with treated periodontitis and 52.5% participating in regular supportive peri‐implant care) were examined. The emergence angles at the mucosal margin were 15.3 ± 9.4°, 12.7 ± 8.5°, 31.3 ± 11.8° and 19.2 ± 9.8° for the mesial, distal, vestibular and oral aspects of the crowns. The largest emergence profile angles were observed on the vestibular aspect (74.6% of cases), reaching a maximum of 61.7°, and profiles were convex in 59% of cases. Generalized estimating equations indicated that the site‐specific platform‐level emergence angle and profile and depth of the mucosal tunnel were significantly associated with the presence of detectable plaque accumulation (p < .01) and bleeding on probing (p < .02).

Conclusions

Subtle variations in the shape of the restorative crown are associated with biofilm accumulation and mucosal inflammation. These findings are important for 3D implant planning/positioning and preservation of peri‐implant tissue health.
Anne Barnard, her life and contribution to Curtis's Botanical Magazine
Authors: Rix Alison
Published: July 2023

Anne Barnard (23 June 1833–19 January 1899), née Henslow, made around 125 illustrations for Curtis's Botanical Magazine, during the editorship of J.D. Hooker. Her life and botanical works are reviewed here, and examples of her original paintings are given.
Spatially Resolved Characterisation of Low Mass Fraction Uranium Glass Working Reference Materials
Authors: Willingham David , Wimpenny Josh , Groopman Evan , Williamson Todd , Tenner Travis , Naes Benjamin , Zimmer Mindy , Cunningham Heather , Knight Kim
Published: July 2023

We present the results of a study to generate reference glasses that reflect an environment analogous to historic nuclear fallout samples of interest for post‐detonation nuclear forensics. The glasses were generated by melting and then quenching SiO2, Al2O3 and CaCO3 powders. Two suites of glasses with three distinct U isotopic ratios were successfully made with enrichments in the 235U isotope (~ natural [0.72%], ~ 53% and 94%), but the bulk elemental data showed heterogeneity (~ 10% RSD) with U mass fractions ranging from 331.47 to 373.63 μg g‐1. Spatially resolved U isotopic measurements were performed using three mass spectrometry techniques (secondary ion mass spectrometry‐single stage accelerator mass spectrometry [SIMS‐SSAMS], large geometry [LG] ‐ SIMS, and laser ablation‐inductively coupled plasma‐mass spectrometry [LA‐ICP‐MS]) across five National Laboratories. The results showed good agreement with the bulk U isotopic data for the low, medium, and high U mass fractions. We conclude that despite elemental heterogeneity, these samples can serve as useful working reference materials for spatially resolved nuclear fallout analyses, as well as for other related spatially resolved analyses.
Effect of thermal depolarization on the poling‐induced domain texture and piezoelectric properties in Mg‐doped NBT‐6BT
Authors: Cangini Laura , Wohninsland Andreas , Bremecker Daniel , Fulanović Lovro , Zhao Changhao , Rödel Jürgen
Published: July 2023

Recently, poled Na0.50Bi0.50TiO3‐BaTiO3 (NBT‐BT)‐based polycrystalline materials have been characterized as possessing a high degree of poling‐induced domain texture in their remanent state. This finding is suggested to be the reason for their stable mechanical quality factor at high‐vibration velocity, making them promising candidates for high‐power applications. The materials in consideration are prone to self‐heating and thermal run‐away, particularly at slightly elevated temperatures. Therefore, this paper evaluates the temperature dependence of the poling‐induced domain texture of (Na0.47Bi0.47Ba0.06)TiO3 (NBT‐6BT) doped with 0.5 mol% of Mg as compared to undoped NBT‐6BT. Its influence on small‐signal, large‐signal, and high‐power properties was investigated. To obtain a fundamental understanding of crystal structure, in‐situ synchrotron measurements were conducted as function of temperature to establish a relationship between structure and piezoelectric properties of both Mg‐doped and undoped NBT‐6BT materials.
High‐performance KNN piezoceramics with reproducibility and chemical stability. Part II: Innovative melt‐reaction route
Authors: Vaschalde Lucile , Víllora Encarnación G. , Shimamura Kiyoshi
Published: July 2023

In the first part, a means to synthesize high‐density homogeneous (K,Na)NbO3 (KNN) ceramics with high piezoelectric performance and chemical stability at low spark‐plasma sintering temperature was found. However, these properties could not be obtained reproducibly, thus this second part is focused on solving this issue. Here, instead of doing a fine pulverization of raw materials prior to the reaction, the powders are ultimately mixed in the molten state and quenched to keep a single stoichiometry. A fast quenching is found to promote a better homogenization of the KNN phase upon annealing. Additionally, the coarse‐ground KNN powder is pre‐annealed before fine pulverization to preserve its high crystallinity. This innovative procedure prevents the formation of parasitic phases, leading with it to high‐performance undoped KNN ceramics (d33 ≈ 145 – 154 pC/N, kp ≈ 47–48% and kt ≈ 35 – 42%), while achieving both high reproducibility and chemical stability.
Feasibility of school‐based parent support groups for transition‐aged youth with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Lee Chung Eun , Choi Minsik
Published: July 2023

Background

Parents experience difficulties supporting children with intellectual disabilities when they exit the school system. One promising way to mitigate this problem is to set up school‐based parent support groups. This study aimed to examine the development and feasibility of school‐based parent support groups in South Korea designed to connect parents of transition‐aged youth with intellectual disabilities.

Methods

This qualitative study included 29 participants. Five focus groups and seven individual interviews were conducted with parents as co‐researchers. Data were analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Participants reported meaningful experiences after participating in the parent support groups. However, it is critical to consider the following components to promote their feasibility: clearly defined roles, small group meetings, school‐based initiatives, and collaboration.

Conclusions

Parent support groups could be a valuable way to promote parental empowerment. Implications for future practices are suggested.
Monitoring the consumption footprint of countries to support policy‐making: An assessment of data availability in Germany
Authors: Nuss Philip , Sanyé‐Mengual Esther , Sala Serenella
Published: July 2023

The European Green Deal and the German Resource Efficiency Programme both aim at decoupling resource consumption and associated environmental burdens from economic growth. Monitoring the progress of such policies requires robust estimates of environmental pressures and impacts, both from a domestic and a footprint perspective. Building on the life cycle assessment‐based consumption footprint (CoF) indicator, developed by the European Commission Joint Research Centre, we assess the environmental impacts of Germany's consumption in the areas of food, mobility, housing, household goods, and appliances during the period 2010–2018. A comparison between European and national consumption statistics revealed some differences in terms of data composition, granularity, consumption intensities, and calculated environmental impacts. Using national data sources results in slightly lower environmental impacts (e.g., due to differences in the assessment scope of national statistics) and requires some data preparation to match the CoF indicator. Emerging consumption trends can be highlighted using national data. Both data sources converge on main trends: Germany transgresses the safe operating space for several impact categories, with consumption of food, household goods, and mobility being the main drivers. Domestic impacts have decreased over time at the expense of outsourcing environmental pressures and impacts to other countries. The CoF indicator could complement resource monitoring frameworks and might be further aligned to the national context using country‐level consumption statistics and life cycle inventory data.
Configuring International Growth of Emerging Market Multinational Enterprises: A Compositional Springboarding View in the Context of India
Authors: Li Yi , Fan Di , Kumar Vikas , Ananthram Subramaniam
Published: July 2023

The rapid international growth of emerging market multinational enterprises (EMNEs) has become widely researched in the international management field. The compositional springboarding view (CSV) provides a theoretical understanding of amalgamation‐ambidexterity‐adaptability elements that impact EMNEs' internationalization. Here we utilize the CSV to conduct a configurational analysis of factors explaining Indian firms' rapid international growth. Using fuzzy‐set qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) of a survey‐archival data set matched with a sample of listed manufacturing firms from India, we identify five configurational solutions for Indian multinational enterprises (MNEs) to achieve international growth. We further develop a taxonomy of Indian MNEs' CSV configurations supporting rapid international growth that we name as amalgamator, adapter, augmentor, explorer, and springboarder. Through the configurational approach, we extend the EMNE literature in the international management field by exploring the efficacy and complementarity of compositional springboarding factors that enable Indian MNEs' rapid international growth. We also contribute to the organization theory and strategy literatures by addressing the tension alleviation between reconfiguring existing resources and creating new ones. Our theoretical extension opens new opportunities for CSV to guide strategic analyses across various resource reuse and creation scenarios.
The happy personality revisited: Re‐examining associations between Big Five personality traits and subjective well‐being using meta‐analytic structural equation modeling
Authors: Busseri Michael A. , Erb Emily M.
Published: July 2023

Objective/Background

Using meta‐analytic structural equation modeling (MASEM), we examined the link between Big Five personality traits and subjective well‐being (SWB), operationalized as three separate components and as a latent factor indicated by life satisfaction (LS), positive affect (PA), and negative affect (NA). PA and NA were assessed based on frequency of a broad range of affective experiences, rather than intensity of high arousal affective experiences, thus excluding studies using the Positive and Negative Affect Schedule.

Method

35 samples were included, encompassing 22,135 participants from 14 countries, in which all eight variables were assessed.

Results

Correlations among personality traits were moderate, on average, and the latent SWB factor had strong loadings from all three components. Personality traits together explained substantial variance in LS, PA, and NA, and in the latent SWB factor, with unique predictive effects on the latent factor from each personality trait except openness. Associations between personality traits and SWB components were fully accounted for by a latent SWB factor, with one exception: A specific association was found between neuroticism and unique variance in NA.

Conclusions

The present findings provide new insights concerning the notion of a ‘happy personality’ in showing that Big Five personality traits have unique associations with an underlying sense of SWB.
The EU and Justice in Palestine: An Interview with Grace O'Sullivan
Authors: Gaess Roger
Published: July 2023

Grace O'Sullivan of the Irish Green Party, affiliated with the European Green Party, has been a member of the European Parliament from Ireland for the South constituency since July 2019. In the European Parliament, she is a member of delegations on Palestine and Mercosur. O'Sullivan previously served as a senator in Ireland and was a sponsor of the Control of Economic Activity (Occupied Territories) Bill 2018, which sought to prohibit the import of goods produced in illegal settlements. O'Sullivan, an environmental activist, spent 20 years with Greenpeace and worked on the crew of the Rainbow Warrior in 1985, when it was bombed in New Zealand by French intelligence. She was interviewed by Roger Gaess via email in April and May 2023.
A pedo‐climatic approach towards soil health assessment: Soil texture‐specific scoring curves on arable land in Norway
Authors: Bøe Frederik , Stolte Jannes , van Schaik Loes , Ritsema Coen
Published: July 2023

Soil health assessments that integrate physical, chemical and biological indicators help the evaluation of soil functioning, provide a framework for monitoring soil degradation, guide land management activities and secure the delivery of soil ecosystem services. In this study, we assessed soil health by soil texture class on arable land in Southeast Norway and mid‐Norway and between grassland and arable land in mid‐Norway. We used descriptive statistics and the Welch t‐test with unequal variance and Bonferroni corrections to compare a physical soil indicator (bulk density) and chemical indicators (organic matter, P‐AL, K‐AL, Ca‐AL, Mg‐AL, Na‐AL and pH). We developed scoring curves from cumulative normal distribution functions on regional soil data for various soil indicators where climate, soil texture class and land use were considered. Our results show that for certain soil texture classes, average soil indicator values differed between pedo‐climatic zones on arable land, but for others the difference was not significant. The variability between the pedo‐climatic zones for these can be neglected, but for the ones that differ, the variability is important to consider when assessing soil health. Similarly, this was the case when comparing land use (grassland and arable land) for most soil indicators in mid‐Norway. This finding illustrates the importance of addressing unique local conditions in soil health assessments. We propose aggregating similar soil texture classes where no differences are apparent when developing scoring curves. The sub‐optimal levels of plant available nutrients (P‐AL and K‐AL) found in the soil in both pedo‐climatic zones highlights the importance of suitable threshold values for targeted soil ecosystem services to ensure soil health and sustainable agricultural production. We also recommend prioritizing the most relevant soil ecosystem services to limit the number of soil indicators that need monitoring.
Shelter and dwelling: A pandemic response to houselessness and community‐engaged pedagogy in theological education
Authors: Jérémie‐Brink Nathan
Published: July 2023

Created during the height of the COVID‐19 pandemic, the Shelter Project brought together a denominational seminary, a leading state research university, a community arts organization, and a housing non‐profit serving unhoused and vulnerable neighbors. As the pandemic revealed and intensified the ongoing crisis of houselessness in central New Jersey and across the United States, this project, funded by the Henry Luce Foundation, provided direct housing services, preserved the stories of unhoused and vulnerable neighbors, and offered public arts interventions promoting engagement and advocacy. This article reflects on the Shelter Project's collaborative community engagement, demonstrates how oral histories and public arts developed a project‐informed pedagogy, and argues for more projects that employ community‐engaged scholarship in theological higher education.
The Design of a Virtual Prototyping System for Authoring Interactive Virtual Reality Environments From Real-World Scans
Authors: Ipsita Ananya , Duan Runlin , Li Hao , Chidambaram Subramanian , Cao Yuanzhi , Liu Min , Quinn Alex , Ramani Karthik
Published: July 2023

Domain users (DUs) with a knowledge base in specialized fields are frequently excluded from authoring virtual reality (VR)-based applications in corresponding fields. This is largely due to the requirement of VR programming expertise needed to author these applications. To address this concern, we developed VRFromX, a system workflow design to make the virtual content creation process accessible to DUs irrespective of their programming skills and experience. VRFromX provides an in situ process of content creation in VR that (a) allows users to select regions of interest in scanned point clouds or sketch in mid-air using a brush tool to retrieve virtual models and (b) then attach behavioral properties to those objects. Using a welding use case, we performed a usability evaluation of VRFromX with 20 DUs from which 12 were novices in VR programming. Study results indicated positive user ratings for the system features with no significant differences across users with or without VR programming expertise. Based on the qualitative feedback, we also implemented two other use cases to demonstrate potential applications. We envision that the solution can facilitate the adoption of the immersive technology to create meaningful virtual environments.
Complete genome of a 2014 isolate of peste des petits ruminants virus from Ethiopia
Authors: King Simon , Baron Michael D. , Kidane Menbere , Aklilu Fasil , Kapur Vivek , Herzog Catherine M. , Batten Carrie
Published: July 2023

This report describes the complete genome sequence of a peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV) isolate from Ethiopia in 2014. The strain (PPRV/Ethiopia/Habru/2014), which showed a normal virulence and relatively low morbidity in the field, belongs to the North African subclade of Lineage IV.
Resilience in children with congenital heart disease: a comparative study with health counterparts
Authors: Köble Katharina , Willinger Laura , Brudy Leon , Oberhoffer-Fritz Renate , Ewert Peter , Müller Jan
Published: July 2023

Objective

Resilience is a complex, yet rather unexplored topic in patients with congenital heart disease (CHD). The goal of this study was to assess and compare resilience in children with CHD with healthy controls during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design and patients

From June 2020 to June 2021, 124 children with various CHDs (14.6±2.1 years, 49 girls) and 124 matched healthy controls (14.8±2.0 years, 49 girls) completed the Resilience Scale-11 short version.

Results

Resilience was significantly reduced in children with CHD compared with healthy controls (CHD: 59.0±10.0 vs healthy controls: 64.4±6.5, p<0.001). That reduction was prominent in all CHD subgroups except those with left heart obstruction (aortic stenosis and coarctation of the aorta) and patients with transposition of the great arteries. Complex CHD had the lowest resilience of 57.6±8.4 (p<0.001) after adjusting for age and sex according to group differences. There was no difference between native CHD and CHD with open-heart surgery (native: 59.5±12.2 vs surgery: 58.8±9.3, p=0.758).

Conclusions

Resilience was reduced in children and adolescents with CHD compared with healthy peers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Children with complex severity appeared to be particularly affected. These findings emphasise continued efforts to provide a holistic and multidisciplinary approach in medical aftercare of these patients and their families.
Time to be more efficient: reducing wasted transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) diagnostic appointment slots at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Trust
Authors: Freitas Dario , Alner Sam , Demetrescu Camelia , Antonacci Grazia , Proudlove Nathan
Published: July 2023

Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) is one of the most requested non-invasive cardiac imaging diagnostic modalities available in the National Health Service (NHS). There is persistently high demand, but nationally, activity has lagged, producing increasing numbers of breaches of the 6-week waiting time target. This delays patients’ diagnosis and treatment.

Patients attend hospital for TTE either as a clinic-linked or a standalone appointment. In this quality improvement project, we identified that the clinic-linked slots were a major source of wasted capacity due to both unbooked slots and a high rate of patients not attending their appointments (DNA).

DNA is a complex issue, aggravated in our trust by many IT systems, complex clinic-booking pathways and restricted patient communication channels. We parked changing these processes, pending an imminent, unifying IT development programme. We focused instead on unused clinic-linked appointments, with the goal of reducing these from 18% (~31 of ~175 allocated each week) to 5% by the end of the 14 week project period.

In close collaboration with service stakeholders, we identified that the primary root causes were related to the clinic-linked TTE booking pathway. The change idea was a 7-day rule: after reminders at 9 and 8 days prior to the clinic date, any appointment slots still unbooked by cardiology sub-specialities for patients attending clinic-linked appointments at 7 days, would be used for booking standalone TTE patients.

We refined this process over two plan-do-study-act (PDSA) cycles, reducing unused (wasted) appointment slots, allocated initially to clinic-linked patients, to a sustained level of 5.1%, meaning we could now perform approximately 21 additional TTE tests weekly; we have materially increased activity without increasing capacity.

This contributed to a significant reduction in 6-week TTE waiting-time breaches. Over the project, this went from 378 (30%, February 2022) to 71 (8%, September 2022) and latest data show 28 (4%, February 2023).
Efficacy and safety of an inhaled pan-Janus kinase inhibitor, nezulcitinib, in hospitalised patients with COVID-19: results from a phase 2 clinical trial
Authors: Belperio John , Nguyen Tuan , Lombardi David A , Bogus Maxim , Moskalenko Valentyn , Singh Dave , Haumann Brett , Bourdet David L , Kaufman Elad , Pfeifer Nathan D , Thompson Corbin G , Woo Jacky , Moran Edmund J , Saggar Rajeev
Published: July 2023

Background

The inhaled lung-selective pan-Janus kinase inhibitor nezulcitinib had favourable safety and potential efficacy signals in part 1 of a phase 2 trial in patients with severe COVID-19, supporting progression to part 2.

Methods

Part 2 was a randomised, double-blind phase 2 study (NCT04402866). Hospitalised patients aged 18–80 years with confirmed symptomatic COVID-19 requiring supplemental oxygen (excluding baseline invasive mechanical ventilation) were randomised 1:1 to nebulised nezulcitinib 3 mg or placebo for up to 7 days with background standard-of-care therapy (including corticosteroids). Efficacy endpoints included respiratory failure-free (RFF) days through day 28 as the primary endpoint. Secondary endpoints included safety and change from baseline oxygen saturation (SaO2)/fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) ratio on day 7, and 28-day mortality rate was a prespecified exploratory endpoint.

Results

Between June 2020 and April 2021, 205 patients were treated (nezulcitinib, 103; placebo, 102). There was no statistically significant difference between nezulcitinib versus placebo in the primary endpoint (RFF days; median, 21.0 vs 21.0; p=0.6137) or secondary efficacy endpoints. Nezulcitinib was generally well tolerated with a favourable safety profile.

Conclusions

Although the prespecified primary, secondary and exploratory efficacy endpoints, including RFF through day 28, change from baseline SaO2/FiO2 ratio on day 7, and 28-day mortality rate, were not met, nezulcitinib was generally well tolerated and had a favourable safety profile. Further studies are required to determine if treatment with nezulcitinib confers clinical benefit in specific inflammatory biomarker-defined populations of patients with COVID-19.
Physical fitness, hormonal profile, nutritional and psychological aspects assessment of transgender women volleyball players submitted to physical tests: protocol paper of a prospective cohort
Authors: Alvares Leonardo Azevedo Mobilia , Ferreira Raphael Einsfeld Simões , Nakamoto Fernanda Patti , Dos Santos Quaresma Marcus Vinicius Lúcio , Santos Lívia Marcela , Degani-Costa Luiza Helena , Navarro Lucas Soglio , Navarro Giovanna Soglio , Oliveira-Junior Ari Alves , Barbosa Renata Cléia Claudino , Lima Fábio Mitsuo
Published: July 2023

To evaluate aerobic capacity, strength and other physiological, nutritional, and psychological variables which may influence the performance of transgender women (TW) athletes and compare them to cisgender women (CW) and cisgender men (CM) athletes, as well as changes in TW performance over the course of a year. Prospective cohort study including three groups: TW, CW and CM volleyball athletes. Subjects will be comprehensively assessed at two different moments: baseline and after 6–12 months of adequate hormonal therapy. Evaluation will comprise clinical, medical, nutritional and psychological interviews, incremental treadmill cardiopulmonary exercise testing, hand grip strength test, vertical jump test, analysis of sleep quality (Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index), hormonal profile, echocardiogram, analysis of resting energy expenditure, assessment of bone mass and body composition through dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry scans, and untargeted metabolomic analysis. CW and CM matched by age, body mass index and level of physical activity will undergo a similar evaluation. The assessment of the strength, aerobic capacity, haematological, nutritional and psychological status of TW using gold-standard tests will contribute to understanding the impact of oestrogen therapy on the exercise performance of these athletes and how they compare with CW and CM.
Rapid glucocorticoid tapering regimen in patients with giant cell arteritis: a single centre cohort study
Authors: Mensch Noemi , Hemmig Andrea Katharina , Aschwanden Markus , Imfeld Stephan , Stegert Mihaela , Recher Mike , Staub Daniel , Kyburz Diego , Berger Christoph T , Daikeler Thomas
Published: July 2023

Objectives

We evaluated the feasibility of a rapid glucocorticoid tapering regimen to reduce glucocorticoid exposure in patients with giant cell arteritis (GCA) treated with glucocorticoids only.

Methods

Newly diagnosed patients with GCA treated with a planned 26-week glucocorticoid tapering regimen at the University Hospital Basel were included. Data on relapses, cumulative steroid doses (CSD) and therapy-related adverse effects were collected from patients’ records.

Results

Of 47 patients (64% women, median age 72 years), 32 patients (68%) had relapsed. Most relapses were minor (28/32) and 2/3 of those were isolated increased inflammatory markers (19/32). Among major relapses, one resulted in permanent vision loss. The median time until relapse was 99 days (IQR 71–127) and median glucocorticoid dose at relapse was 8 mg (IQR 5–16). Nine of 47 patients stopped glucocorticoids after a median duration of 35 weeks and did not relapse within 1 year. Median CSD at 12 months was 4164 mg which is lower compared with published data. Glucocorticoid-associated adverse effects occurred in 40% of patients, most frequently were new onset or worsening hypertension (19%), diabetes (11%) and severe infections (11%).

Conclusion

We could demonstrate that 32% of patients remained relapse-free and 19% off glucocorticoids at 1 year after treatment with a rapid glucocorticoid tapering regimen. Most relapses were minor and could be handled with temporarily increased glucocorticoid doses. Consequently, the CSD at 12 months was much lower than reported in published cohorts. Thus, further reducing treatment-associated damage in patients with GCA by decreasing CSD seems to be possible.