bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Where will the dhole survive in 2030? Predicted strongholds in mainland Southeast Asia
Authors: Tananantayot Jiratchaya , Agger Cain , Ash Eric , Aung Saw Soe , Baker‐Whatton Megan C. , Bisi Francesco , Clements Gopalasamy Reuben , Cremonesi Giacomo , Crouthers Rachel , Frechette Jackson L. , Gale George A. , Godfrey Alexander , Gray Thomas N. E. , Greenspan Evan , Griffin Olly , Grindley Mark , Hashim Abdul Kadir Bin Abu , Jenks Kate E. , Say K'lu Saw , Lam Wai Yee , Lynam Antony J. , McCann Gregory Edward , Mohamad Shariff Wan , Petersen Wyatt Joseph , Sivayogam Charina Pria , Rayan Darmaraj Mark , Riggio Alex Michael , Saosoong Sutasinee , Savini Tommaso , Seuaturien Naret , Shwe Nay Myo , Siripattaranukul Kittiwara , Steinmetz Robert , Suksavate Sasi , Sukumal Niti , Tantipisanuh Naruemon , Vinitpornsawan Supagit , Ngoprasert Dusit
Published: October 2022

Dhole (Cuon alpinus) is threatened with extinction across its range due to habitat loss and prey depletion. Despite this, no previous study has investigated the distribution and threat of the species at a regional scale. This lack of knowledge continues to impede conservation planning for the species. Here we modeled suitable habitat using presence‐only camera trap data for dhole and dhole prey species in mainland Southeast Asia and assessed the threat level to dhole in this region using an expert‐informed Bayesian Belief Network. We integrated prior information to identify dhole habitat strongholds that could support populations over the next 50 years. Our habitat suitability model identified forest cover and prey availability as the most influential factors affecting dhole occurrence. Similarly, our threat model predicted that forest loss and prey depletion were the greatest threats, followed by local hunting, non‐timber forest product collection, and domestic dog incursion into the forest. These threats require proactive resource management, strong legal protection, and cross‐sector collaboration. We predicted <20% of all remaining forest cover in our study area to be suitable for dhole. We then identified 17 patches of suitable forest area as potential strongholds. Among these patches, Western Forest Complex (Thailand) was identified as the region's only primary stronghold, while Taman Negara (Malaysia), and northeastern landscape (Cambodia) were identified as secondary strongholds. Although all 17 patches met our minimum size criteria (1667 km2), patches smaller than 3333 km2 may require site management either by increasing the ecological carrying capacity (i.e., prey abundance) or maintaining forest extent. Our proposed interventions for dhole would also strengthen the conservation of other co‐occurring species facing similar threats. Our threat assessment technique of species with scarce information is likely replicable with other endangered species.
The impact of the United Network of Organ Sharing allocation change on waitlist trajectories of inpatients listed with inotropic support: A single‐center analysis
Authors: Cao Louie , Kim Seong Kyu , Schwartz Brandon , Cole Robert , Patel Jignesh , Czer Lawrence , Esmailian Fardad , Kobashigawa Jon A. , Hamilton Michele A. , Kittleson Michelle M.
Published: October 2022

Background

In the United Network of Organ Sharing (UNOS) allocation scheme prior to October 18, 2018, heart transplant (HTx) candidates with extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO), temporary mechanical circulatory support (MCS), or pulmonary artery (PA) catheter inotropic support all received Status 1A priority. In revised scheme, patients with PA catheter and inotropic support are Status 3 after those on ECMO (Status 1) or temporary MCS (Status 2). We examined the impact of the allocation change on HTx candidates listed Status 1A versus Status 3 at a high‐volume transplant center.

Methods

Between January 2017 and January 2021, 75 patients were listed with a PA catheter and inotropic support prior to the allocation change (Era 1) and 48 were listed after (Era 2). Clinical characteristics and outcomes were compared for these 123 patients.

Results

Heart transplant (HTx) candidates in Era 2 had higher median inotrope doses at listing. There was no significant difference in inpatient wait list days (12 vs. 20 days, P = .15), transition to temporary MCS (33.3% vs. 22.7%, P = .15), or wait list mortality (6.3% vs. 4.0%, P = .68). There was also no significant difference in survival to transplantation (91.7% vs. 94.7%, P = .71). There were no differences in post‐transplant outcomes including 1‐year survival (88.6% vs. 93.0%, P = .38).

Conclusion

At a high‐volume transplant center, the UNOS allocation change did not result in increased wait list time, use of temporary MCS, or mortality on the waitlist or post‐transplant for candidates on inotropic support with continuous hemodynamic monitoring.
Automated scoring of total inflammation in renal allograft biopsies
Authors: Smith Byron , Grande Joseph , Ryan Maggie , Smith Maxwell , Denic Aleksandar , Hermsen Meyke , Park Walter , Kremers Walter , Stegall Mark
Published: October 2022

Background

Computer‐assisted scoring is gaining prominence in the evaluation of renal histology; however, much of the focus has been on identifying larger objects such as glomeruli. Total inflammation impacts graft outcome, and its quantification requires tools to identify objects at the cellular level or smaller. The goal of the current study was to use CD45 stained slides coupled with image analysis tools to quantify the amount of non‐glomerular inflammation within the cortex.

Methods

Sixty renal transplant whole slide images were used for digital image analysis. Multiple thresholding methods using pixel intensity and object size were used to identify inflammation in the cortex. Additionally, convolutional neural networks were used to separate glomeruli from other objects in the cortex. This combined measure of inflammation was then correlated with rescored Banff total inflammation classification and outcomes.

Results

Identification of glomeruli on biopsies had high fidelity (mean pixelwise dice coefficient of .858). Continuous total inflammation scores correlated well with Banff rescoring (maximum Pearson correlation .824). A separate set of thresholds resulted in a significant correlation with alloimmune graft loss.

Conclusions

Automated scoring of inflammation showed a high correlation with Banff scoring. Digital image analysis provides a powerful tool for analysis of renal pathology, not only because it is reproducible and can be automated, but also because it provides much more granular data for studies.
Clinicopathological features and histological tumor residues in re‐excision specimens of incompletely resected basal cell carcinomas
Authors: Lütgerath Constantin , Weiß Christel , Böer‐Auer Almut
Published: October 2022

Background and objective

Surgical excision is the primary mode of treating basal cell carcinoma (BCC). Incomplete excision is a common phenomenon usually dealt with by re‐excision. However, re‐excision specimens often do not contain any tumor residues, rendering the procedure superfluous in hindsight. Our study objective is the identification of clinicopathological features associated with the presence of histological tumor residues in re‐excision specimens.

Patients and methods

222 patients with a total of 255 incompletely resected BCCs were enrolled in this observational case‐control study. Eight clinicopathological features were correlated in a binary logistic regression analysis to the presence or absence of histological tumor residues in re‐excision specimens.

Results

Advanced age at first excision and a BCC in the high‐risk zone for recurrence were found to be independent risk factors for the presence of histological tumor residues in re‐excision specimens.

Conclusions

Our study results indicate a clear need for re‐excision of incompletely resected BCCs in the aforementioned subpopulation. However, less invasive therapies such as imiquimod may be considered for the follow‐up treatment of incompletely resected BCCs located in the low‐risk zone for recurrence in younger patients.
The essence of the mental
Authors: Buchanan Ray , Grzankowski Alex
Published: October 2022

Your belief that Obama is a Democrat would not be the belief that it is if it did not represent Obama, nor would the pain in your ankle be the state that it is if, say, it felt like an itch. Accordingly, it is tempting to hold that phenomenal and representational properties are essential to the mental states that have them. But, as several theorists have forcefully argued (including Kripke (1980) and Burge (1979, 1982)) this attractive idea is seemingly in tension with another equally attractive thesis, namely, the token‐identity thesis; the thesis according to which every mental state token is identical with some or other token physical state. In this paper, we show that these seemingly incontrovertible essentialist intuitions are in fact compatible with “token physicalism” regarding the mental. Given a suitably plentitudinous ontology of objects, we argue that there are physical things with which our token mental states can be identified. This is preferable to existing views that give up the essentiality claims or simply reject the token‐identity thesis.
Neurological autoimmune diseases following vaccinations against severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2): A follow‐up study
Authors: Doubrovinskaia Sofia , Mooshage Christoph M. , Seliger Corinna , Lorenz Hanns‐Martin , Nagel Simon , Lehnert Pascal , Purrucker Jan , Wildemann Brigitte , Bendszus Martin , Wick Wolfgang , Schönenberger Silvia , Kaulen Leon D.
Published: October 2022

Background and purpose

Population‐based studies suggest severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) vaccines may trigger neurological autoimmunity including immune‐mediated thrombotic thrombocytopenia. Long‐term characterization of cases is warranted to facilitate patient care and inform vaccine‐hesitant individuals.

Methods

In this single‐center prospective case study with a median follow‐up of 387 days long‐term clinical, laboratory and imaging characteristics of patients with neurological autoimmunity diagnosed in temporal association (≤6 weeks) with SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccinations are reported.

Results

Follow‐up data were available for 20 cases (central nervous system demyelinating diseases n = 8, inflammatory peripheral neuropathies n = 4, vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia n = 3, myositis n = 2, myasthenia n = 1, limbic encephalitis n = 1, giant cell arteritis n = 1). Following therapy, the overall disability level improved (median modified Rankin Scale at diagnosis 3 vs. 1 at follow‐up). The condition of two patients worsened despite immunosuppressants possibly related to their autoimmune diagnoses (limbic encephalitis n = 1, giant cell arteritis n = 1). At 12 months’ follow‐up, 12 patients achieved complete clinical remissions with partial responses in five and stable disease in one case. Correspondingly, autoimmune antibodies were non‐detectable or titers had significantly lowered in all, and repeat imaging revealed radiological responses in most cases. Under vigilant monitoring 15 patients from our cohort underwent additional SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccinations (BNT162b2 n = 12, mRNA‐1273 n = 3). Most patients (n = 11) received different vaccines than prior to diagnosis of neurological autoimmunity. Except for one short‐lasting relapse, which responded well to steroids, re‐vaccinations were well tolerated.

Conclusions

In this study long‐term characteristics of neurological autoimmunity encountered after SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccinations are defined. Outcome was favorable in most cases. Re‐vaccinations were well tolerated and should be considered on an individual risk/benefit analysis.
Re‐evaluating Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) conservation units in Canada using genomic data
Authors: Xuereb Amanda , Rougemont Quentin , Dallaire Xavier , Moore Jean‐Sébastien , Normandeau Eric , Bougas Bérénice , Perreault‐Payette Alysse , Koop Ben F. , Withler Ruth , Beacham Terry , Bernatchez Louis
Published: October 2022

Conservation units (CUs) are important tools for supporting the implementation of standardized management practices for exploited species. Following the adoption of the Wild Salmon Policy in Canada, CUs were defined for Pacific salmon based on characteristics related to ecotype, life history and genetic variation using microsatellite markers as indirect measures of local adaptation. Genomic data sets have the potential to improve the definition of CUs by reducing variance around estimates of population genetic parameters, thereby increasing the power to detect more subtle patterns of population genetic structure and by providing an opportunity to incorporate adaptive information more directly with the identification of variants putatively under selection. We used one of the largest genomic data sets recently published for a nonmodel species, comprising 5662 individual Coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch) from 149 sampling locations and a total of 24,542 high‐quality SNPs obtained using genotyping‐by‐sequencing and mapped to the Coho salmon reference genome to (1) evaluate the current delineation of CUs for Coho in Canada and (2) compare patterns of population structure observed using neutral and outlier loci from genotype–environment association analyses to determine whether separate CUs that capture adaptive diversity are needed. Our results reflected CU boundaries on the whole, with the majority of sampling locations managed in the same CU clustering together within genetic groups. However, additional groups that are not currently represented by CUs were also uncovered. We observed considerable overlap in the genetic clusters identified using neutral or candidate loci, indicating a general congruence in patterns of genetic variation driven by local adaptation and gene flow in this species. Consequently, we suggest that the current CU boundaries for Coho salmon are largely well‐suited for meeting the Canadian Wild Salmon Policy's objective of defining biologically distinct groups, but we highlight specific areas where CU boundaries may be refined.
Agglomeration and firm performance in times of economic turmoil: Evidence from Tunisian firm‐level data
Authors: Amara Mohamed
Published: October 2022

The paper analyzes the relationship between agglomeration economies (urbanization, specialization, and diversity) and firm‐level performance during a period of deep economic downturn (2011–2018). We use data from the National Survey of Economic Activities for eight Tunisian manufacturing industries to explore which agglomeration externalities matter most for firm performance after the revolution. The analysis considers, in addition, the role played by selected firm‐specific characteristics. The empirical results, based on a multilevel analysis approach, sanction the importance of firm‐specific determinants of productivity and exporting. They also indicate that only specialization externalities have a positive and significant effect on firms' performance. The replicate results during a period of economic stability (1998–2004) show, however, that specialization and urbanization economies are both relevant predictors of firms' productivity and that more productive firms, in particular the smaller ones, are better able to benefit from agglomeration. This finding has not been confirmed for the post‐revolutionary period.
“This boys club world is finally getting to me”: Developing our glass consciousness to understand women's experiences in elite architecture firms
Authors: Ahuja Sumati , Weatherall Ruth
Published: October 2022

In this article, we take inspiration from the evolution of the material use of glass to explore how the metaphorical use of glass could be developed to understand the emerging struggles of women in architecture. Drawing on semi‐structured interviews of architects employed in professional service firms, we suggest that the multi‐faceted nature of glass helped us to identify and understand the complex experiences of inequality for women in architecture. In so doing, we make three contributions to scholarship on gender, work, and organizations. First, we demonstrate how glass barriers were truly material in their consequences for senior women, as they prevented their rise or initiated their decline. A focus on glass barriers, however, did not fully account for the experiences of younger women in these firms. Surprisingly, and in stark contrast to the “boys club world” that left many senior women in architecture with a fractured sense of self as they struggled to construct self‐affirming identities as both women and architects, we found that the exclusive use of new technologies enabled younger women architects to melt some aspects of the traditional identity and turn them into new forms. Our conceptualization of “technologies of glass” draws attention to the social, cultural, and technological resources that younger women deploy to construct a strong professional identity in the changing world of architecture. We argue that glass can be understood not just as a constraint but as a multifaceted material with limitless possibilities for design. Thus, by highlighting the material‐symbolic entanglements of the use of glass, we strengthen and refresh the metaphor of glass, to better understand the fluidity of contemporary challenges facing professional women at work.
Marketing education to international students: A systematic literature review and future research agenda
Authors: Pawar Sanjay Krishnapratap
Published: October 2022

Even though numerous studies provide information on marketing education to international students, research that reviews the accrued knowledge holistically remains elusive. Accordingly, the main purpose of this study is to (1) systematically synthesize, compile and understand the existing line of empirical research on the topic of marketing education to international students and (2) outline a comprehensive future research agenda to help further advance this field. This study adopts the theory‐context‐characteristics‐methodology (TCCM) framework proposed by Paul and Rosado‐Serrano to systematically review 52 articles published in A*, A and B category journals from the ABDC Journal Quality List. This systematic review reveals that the existing studies mostly focus on consumer‐specific theories and detects a need for more macro‐market, and industry‐related theoretical perspectives (theory); it also identifies research gaps related to international student host and home country settings (context), and the application of competition‐related variables for the main relationships in this field (characteristics). Finally, the author proposes several methodological best practices (methodology) to advance findings in this field.
Influence of ultrasound on the mechanism of conjugation between epigallocatechin gallate and β‐lactoglobulin for function improvement
Authors: Shao Xiaoqing , Wang Cunfang , Wang Xipeng , Li Zhenghao , Ma Mengjia , Li Meifeng , Sun Hongyan , Zhang Xiaoning
Published: October 2022

Epigallocatechin‐3‐gallate (EGCG) can improve functional properties of β‐Lactoglobulin (βLg) by conjugation. The effects of ultrasound, a useful tool in improving the conjugation efficiency, on the various functional properties of βLg‐EGCG conjugates were investigated in this study. Results revealed βLg‐EGCG conjugates transformed from cross‐linked state to fragments of various forms with ultrasound treatment with increased of binding affinity. Meanwhile, ultrasound increased secondary structural changes in βLg in the conjugated state. Functionally, ultrasound decreased the immunoglobulin E (IgE) combing capacity of βLg and enhanced its antioxidant properties by promoting the interaction between EGCG and βLg. Moreover, ultrasound induced an increase in hydrodynamic diameter and lowered the absolute zeta potential of βLg‐EGCG conjugates, resulting in an increase in digestibility, as well as foaming and emulsification abilities, while, a decrease in thermal stability. The results provide valuable information for obtaining βLg with better functional properties for industrial production by ultrasound‐assisted covalent binding of EGCG with βLg.
Stabilise, balance and adjust—Framing the early years transitions of children whose parents work non‐standard hours
Authors: Peltoperä Kaisu , Siippainen Anna , Karila Kirsti
Published: October 2022

This study examined talk by parents about the early years transitions of their children (n = 7) in the context of parental non‐standard working hours and Finnish early childhood education and care (ECEC) services. Parents were interviewed at three time points: when their child was aged one, four, five or six years (a total of 21 interviews). The third interview was conducted during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This article focuses on the children's ECEC transitions and the interpretative frames used by parents when talking about their work and childcare. The frames used by the parents to discuss the children's transitions were stabilising the children's lives, balancing between staying at home and attending ECEC and adjusting to norms and rules. The diversity of families' experiences and their children's transitions during the early years should be considered when developing family policy and ECEC services.
A cross‐sector systematic review and synthesis of knowledge on telemedicine interventions in chronic wound management—Implications from a system perspective
Authors: Høyland Sindre Aske , Holte Kari Anne , Islam Kamrul , Øygaarden Olaug , Kjerstad Egil , Høyland Synnøve Aske , Wærnes Hanne Rusten , Gürgen Marcus , Conde Katharina Brekke , Hovland Kristin Søisdal , Rødseth Eirin , Carayon Pascale , Fallon Maureen , Ivins Nicola , Bradbury Sarah , Husebø Sissel Iren Eikeland , Harding Keith G. , Ternowitz Thomas
Published: October 2022

Based on initially identified needs for further telemedicine (TM) and chronic wound management research, the objective of this article is twofold: to conduct a systematic review of existing knowledge on TM interventions in chronic wound management—including barriers and opportunities—across the specialist and primary care sectors, and to incorporate the review findings into a system framework that can be further developed and validated through empirical data. We conclude that there is a pressing need for broader and more comprehensive empirical explorations into quality improvement and integration of TM in chronic wound management, including using system frameworks that can capture cross‐sector system perspectives and associated implications. Of practical consideration, we suggest that the design and execution of TM improvement interventions and associated research projects should be conducted in close cooperation with managers and practitioners knowledgeable about barriers and opportunities that can influence the implementation of important interventions within chronic wound management.
Pulsed field ablation in patients with complex consecutive atrial tachycardia in conjunction with ultra‐high density mapping: Proof of concept
Authors: Gunawardene Melanie A. , Schaeffer Benjamin N. , Jularic Mario , Eickholt Christian , Akbulak Ruken Ö. , Hedenus Katja , Wahedi Rahin , Anwar Omar , Gessler Nele , Hartmann Jens , Willems Stephan
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Catheter‐ablation (CA) of consecutive left atrial tachycardias (LAT) can be challenging. Pulsed field ablation (PFA) yields a novel nonthermal CA technology for treatment of atrial fibrillation (AF). There is no data regarding PFA of LAT. This study sought to investigate PFA of consecutive LAT following prior CA of AF.

Methods

Consecutive patients with LAT underwent ultrahigh‐density (UHDx) mapping. Subsequent to identification of the AT mechanism, PFA was performed at the assumed critical sites for LAT maintenance. Continuous ablation lines were performed if required and evaluated with pre‐ and post‐PFA HDx‐mapping.

Results

Fifteen patients (age 70 ± 10, male 73%) who underwent 3.6 ± 2 prior AF‐CA procedures were included. The total mean procedure and fluoroscopy times were 141 ± 43 and 18 ± 10 min, respectively. All 19 of 19 (100%) LAT were successfully ablated with PFA. Two AT located at the right atria required RF‐ablation. LAT were identified as localized reentry (n = 1) and macro‐reentry LAT (n = 18) and targeted with PFA. All LAT terminated with PFA either to sinus rhythm (9/15) or a secondary AT (6/15 and subsequently to SR); 63% (12/19) terminated with the first PFA‐application. All lines (13 roof, 11 anterior, 1 mitral) were blocked. LA‐posterior‐wall isolation (LAPWI) was successfully achieved when performed (10/10). AF/AT free survival was 80% (12/15) after 153 [88–207] days of follow‐up. No procedure‐related complications occurred.

Conclusion

PFA of consecutive LAT is feasible and safe. Successful creation of ablation lines and LAPWI can be achieved in a short time. PFA may offer the opportunity for effective ablation of atrial arrhythmias beyond AF.
Influencing factors of wide pulse pressure in an elderly Chinese population: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Yang Dandan , Chen Jie , Zhang Tingting , Lin Yaoyao , Yao Xuecheng , Meng Lin , Guo Fanjia , Chen Kun , Dai Honglei , Tang Mengling
Published: October 2022

Blood pressure and pulse pressure (PP) had their own characteristics in the elderly population. This cross‐sectional study including 5030 elderly participants was conducted to describe the distribution of blood pressure and wide PP in the elderly population and find influencing factors of wide PP. Wide PP was defined as PP equal to or more than 65 mmHg, and was classified three types as low systolic blood pressure (SBP) and low diastolic blood pressure (DBP) (LSLD), high SBP and low DBP (HSLD), and high SBP and high DBP (HSHD). Using multivariate logistic regression models to analyze the associations of demographic factors, health‐related factors and lifestyle factors with different wide PP types. The associations of lifestyles with wide PP by gender were estimated by subgroup analyses. Among 5030 elderly participants, 2727 (54.2%) participants had wide PP. Logistic regression models showed older age (OR = 2.48, 95%CI: 2.14‐2.88), female (OR = 1.31, 95%CI: 1.07‐1.60), not married (OR = 1.26, 95%CI: 1.07‐1.49), having chronic diseases (OR = 1.28, 95%CI: 1.09‐1.50), current alcohol drinker (OR = 1.29, 95%CI: 1.11‐1.50) were positively associated, and higher body height (OR = .78, 95%CI: .62‐.99), higher education level (OR = .60, 95%CI: .43‐.82), current smoker (OR = .79, 95%CI: .64‐.97) were negatively associated with wide PP. Among three different types of wide PP including LSLD, HSLD, HSHD, these factors had different effects. Subgroup analyses found that only among male, current smoker was negatively associated and current alcohol drinker was positively associated with wide PP.
Evaluating the effect of LPS from periodontal pathogenic bacteria on the expression of senescence‐related genes in human dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Sattari Mandana , Masoudnia Mina , Mashayekhi Kazem , Hashemi Seyed Mahmoud , Khannazer Nikoo , Sattari Sepanta , Mohammadian Haftcheshmeh Saeed , Momtazi‐Borojeni Amir Abbas
Published: October 2022

The human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs) are one of the readily available sources of multipotent mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and can be considered as a type of tool cells for cell‐based therapies. However, the main limitation in the clinical use of these cells is DPSC senescence, which can be induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) of oral pathogenic bacteria. Up to now, far little attention has been paid to exploring the molecular mechanisms of senescence in DPSCs. So, the current study aimed to investigate the underlying molecular mechanism of senescence in hDPSCs stimulated with Porphyromonas gingivalis (P. gingivalis) and Escherichia coli (E. coli)‐derived LPSs, by evaluating both mRNA and protein expression of four important senescence‐related genes, including TP53, CDKN1A, CDKN2A and SIRT1. To this purpose, hDPSCs were stimulated with different LPSs for 6, 24 and 48 h and then the gene expression was evaluated using quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) and western blotting. Following stimulation with P. gingivalis and E. coli‐derived LPSs, the relative mRNA and protein expression of all genes were significantly up‐regulated in a time‐dependent manner, as compared with unstimulated hDPSCs. Moreover, the hDPSCs stimulated with P. gingivalis LPS for 6 and 24 h had the highest mRNA expression of CDKN1A and SIRT1, respectively (p < 0.0001), whereas the highest mRNA expression of CDKN2A and TP53 was seen in hDPSCs stimulated with E. coli LPS for 48 h (p < 0.0001). In summary, because DPSCs have been reported to have therapeutic potential for several cell‐based therapies, targeting molecular mechanisms aiming at preventing DPSC senescence could be considered a valuable strategy.
Masking ability of resin composites: A scoping review
Authors: Perez Bibiana Gabardo , Gaidarji Bruna , Righes Danielle Zorzo , Pecho Oscar E. , Pereira Gabriel Kalil Rocha , Durand Letícia Brandão
Published: October 2022

Objective

To map the existing evidence regarding the masking ability of resin composites.

Overview

The literature search was conducted electronically, based on the PRISMA Extension for Scoping Reviews—online protocol at https://osf.io/m2h67/ with no language or time restrictions. Two independent reviewers conducted the screening, and a third reviewer was consulted in case of disagreement. Studies that evaluated resin composite masking ability regardless of background, application technique, thickness, or number of layers were selected. The search found 2995 potentially eligible studies. After removal of duplicates (657), irrelevant articles (2323), 15 citations met the eligibility criteria based on title and abstract, and eight studies were included based on full text analysis (seven in vitro, and one case report). Acceptable masking ability is obtained by one layer of opaque shade resin composite or by the layering technique. A black background is masked with 1.0‐ to 2.0 mm‐thick layers of opaque shade resin composites. Masking of the C4 background is achieved with one layer of 0.5‐ to 1.5 mm‐thick opaque shade resin composite or by the layering technique using different combinations of enamel body and dentin shades with a final thickness of 1.5 mm.

Conclusions

Acceptable masking of C4 shade background is achieved with one layer of opaque shade composite at least 0.5 mm‐thick or by different combinations of the layering technique, with a final thickness of 1.5 mm. Acceptable masking of the black background of the oral cavity is achieved with a resin composite of at least 1.0 mm opaque shade.

Clinical Significance

The thickness of the resin composite layer required to achieve adequate masking is variable and depends on the translucency/opacity of the tested resin composites and the background shade.
Assessment of quality changes of tangor fruit juice after pasteurization and thermosonication treatments
Authors: Basumatary Birhang , Nayak Mahendra , Nayak Prakash Kumar , Kesavan Radha krishnan
Published: October 2022

In recent years, thermosonication (TS) has been considered as a substitute to conventional heat treatments as it improves the quality characteristics of fruit juices. In the present research work, the impact of pasteurization (90 ± 2°C for 1 min) and TS on the quality of tangor fruit juice was examined and findings of the work were compared with freshly prepared juice. The quality characteristics, such as bioactive compounds, microbial counts and physicochemical properties were checked for all samples. After TS, the levels of total phenolic content (TPC) (683.25–747.84 μg gallic acid equivalents [GAE0/ml]), total flavonoid content (TFC) (61.76–71.51 μg quercetin equivalents [QE]/ml) and anti‐oxidant activity (AOA) (73.27–83.63%) of tangor juices were improved as compared to fresh (TPC − 584.84 μg GAE/ml, TFC − 34.65 μg QE/ml and AOA − 49.71%) and pasteurized juices (TPC – 471.74 μg GAE/ml, TFC – 26.64 μg QE/ml and AOA – 38.19%). But, a slight decrement in ascorbic acid content was perceived in thermosonicated juices (24.48–27.26 mg/100 ml) as compared to fresh tangor juice (45.55 mg/100 ml) but higher than pasteurized juice (22.55 mg/100 ml). TS also reduced the microbial populations in tangor juices with minor changes in the physicochemical properties as compared to fresh juices. Therefore, TS may be used effectively for the treatment of tangor juices to produce a product with better levels of bioactive compounds.

Practical Applications

Thermosonication is one among the emergent techniques for the processing fruit juice to enhance the shelf‐life without adversely affecting its quality. Although, pasteurization has been exercised for the processing of juices, but it has detrimental effect on nutritional and sensorial properties of juices. In the current study, the impact of pasteurization and thermosonication on the quality of tangor juices was evaluated. From the study, it can be proposed that thermosonication can be applied as an alternative method to pasteurization for enhancing the quality of tangor juices.
The epidemiology of preexisting geriatric and palliative conditions in older adults with poor prognosis cancers
Authors: Tsang Mazie , Gan Siqi , Boscardin W. John , Wong Melisa L. , Walter Louise C. , Smith Alexander K.
Published: October 2022

Background

Older patients with poor prognosis cancers have complex needs that can benefit from geriatrics and palliative care principles. Because they are not routinely assessed, the prevalence of preexisting geriatric and palliative conditions in this population is unknown.

Methods

We used the nationally representative Health and Retirement Study (HRS) linked with Medicare claims (1998–2016) to identify adults aged ≥65 years diagnosed with poor prognosis cancers (cancers with a median survival ≤1 year). Using the HRS interview before the first Medicare cancer claim, we used survey‐weighted descriptive statistics and modified Poisson regression analysis to examine the prevalence of the following clinically significant conditions: functional impairment, difficulty with mobility, falls and injurious falls, social support, cognition, advance care planning, use of pain or sleep medications, and presence of pain or breathlessness.

Results

Of 2105 participants (mean age 76, 53% women, 34% lung cancer, 21% gastrointestinal cancer), the median survival was 9.6 months. Approximately 65% had difficulty climbing stairs (95% CI 63%–67%), 49% had no advance directive (95% CI 45%–54%), 35% lived alone (95% CI 33%–37%), 36% fell in the last 2 years (95% CI 34%–38%), and 32% rated their memory as poor (95% CI 29%–34%). After adjusting for gender, cancer type, and HRS survey time before the first Medicare claim for a poor prognosis cancer, functional impairment and falls were highest among adults aged 85+. Adults aged 65–74 years were less likely to have an advance directive. After adjusting for age, cancer type, and HRS survey time, women had a higher rate of pain and physical impairment. In exploratory analyses, race and socioeconomic status predicted difficulty with mobility and instrumental activities of daily living, living alone, and advance directive completion.

Conclusions

Due to a high prevalence across multiple domains, all older adults with poor prognosis cancers should be assessed for geriatric and palliative care conditions.
Hospital‐acquired undernutrition and associated factors in children and adolescents admitted to a tertiary care hospital
Authors: Viana Alves Marília de Fátima , Cruvel Juliana Moreira da Silva , Coutinho Marluce Alves , Sousa Maria Milena Bezerra , Barbosa Elza Cristina Batista , Pires Bruna Renata Fernandes
Published: October 2022

Background

The present study aimed to verify the proportion and factors associated with hospital‐acquired malnutrition in the paediatric unit of a tertiary care hospital.

Methods

A retrospective study was carried out in a tertiary care hospital in the state of Maranhão, Brazil. Demographic and clinical data on children and adolescents were collected from medical records and the data regarding weight, height and z‐scores of anthropometric indicators were obtained from the World Health Organization (WHO) Anthro® and WHO Anthro Plus® applications. Those with weight‐for‐height z‐score (< 5 years) and a body mass index (BMI)/age z‐score (≥ 5 years) < −2 SD at admission were considered to be malnourished. Patients who presented a decrease of > 0.25 SD between the z‐score of BMI‐for‐age (BMIZ) at admission and at discharge were classified as having hospital‐acquired malnutrition. Weight loss was also evaluated and was considered significant when it was > 2% between the weight measured at admission and the one before discharge. Logistic regression analysis was performed to verify the factors associated with hospital‐acquired malnutrition.

Results

The median age was 4.7 years and the length of stay was 21 days; 26.8% of patients had significant weight loss during hospitalisation and a greater proportion had hospital‐acquired malnutrition (34.9%). Gastroenteropathies, neuropathies and malnutrition on admission were significantly associated with hospital‐acquired malnutrition.

Conclusions

The occurrence of hospital‐acquired malnutrition is still a problem in paediatric patients. Thus, providing adequate nutritional support from admission is essential when aiming to avoid deterioration of the nutritional status of paediatric patients during hospitalisation.
Incidence, clinical signs, and videofluoroscopic swallow study abnormalities associated with airway penetration and aspiration in 100 dogs
Authors: Grobman Megan , Carluen Enrico , Reinero Carol R.
Published: October 2022

Background

Videofluoroscopic swallow studies (VFSS) utilizing penetration‐aspiration (P‐A) scoring assesses airway protection in people. On VFSS, penetration (ingesta or secretions immediately cranial to the vocal folds) and aspiration (material caudal to the vocal folds) are associated with increased risk of lung injury in people. Penetration‐aspiration (P‐A) scoring has been validated in animal models, but the incidence of P‐A, clinical signs (CS), and dysphagic disorders associated with P‐A in dogs are unknown.

Objectives

Using VFSS, identify the incidence of P‐A, compare CS between dogs with and without P‐A, and identify predisposing dysphagic abnormalities for P‐A.

Animals

One hundred client‐owned dogs.

Methods

Sequential VFSS and associated medical records from dogs presenting to the veterinary teaching hospitals at Auburn University (n = 53) and the University of Missouri (n = 47) were retrospectively reviewed. Statistical comparisons were made using Mann‐Whitney tests, one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA) on ranks, multiple linear regression, and Spearman rank order correlation (P < .05).

Results

On VFSS, the incidence of pathologic P‐A was 39%. No significant differences in CS were found between dogs with or without P‐A (P > .05), with 14/39 dogs with P‐A presenting without respiratory CS. Pharyngeal (P < .001) and esophageal (P = .009), but not oral‐preparatory (P = .2) dysphagia was more common with P‐A. Pharyngeal weakness (P < .001) and esophago‐oropharyngeal reflux (EOR; P = .05) were independent predictors of P‐A and were moderately and weakly positively correlated with P‐A score respectively (P < .001, r = 0.489; P = .04, r = 0.201).

Conclusions

Penetration‐aspiration occurs in dogs in the absence of respiratory CS (i.e., occult P‐A). Dogs with pharyngeal weakness and EOR should be considered at risk for P‐A.
Character‐based leadership in medicine: A valuable concept that is not without challenges
Authors: Hayat Ali Asghar , Amini Mitra
Published: October 2022

How does character‐based leadership affects followers and what conditions/contexts determine the effectiveness of this type of leadership? Hayat and Amini address these questions while considering the role of power and position.
Bridging health equity and quality improvement in medical education
Authors: Sukhera Javeed
Published: October 2022

Sukhera suggests that a deeper understanding of how QI education and health equity are interconnected requires critical reflection on why QI was developed, by whom, and for what purpose.
Discrepant modulating effects of dietary docosahexaenoic acid on cerebral lipids, fatty acid transporter expression and soluble beta‐amyloid levels in ApoE−/− and C57BL/6J mice
Authors: Xu Jingjing , Huang Xiaochen , Guo Yujie , Ma Xiaojun , Li Pengfei , Zhou Shaobo , Zhang Chi , Chen Rui , Van Halm‐Lutterodt Nicholas , Yuan Linhong
Published: October 2022

Aims

The study was designed to explore the role of apolipoprotein E (ApoE) deficiency concomitant with dietary docosahexaenoic acid (DHA) treatment on brain β‐amyloid (Aβ) and lipid levels.

Method

A 5‐month dietary DHA intervention was conducted in ApoE‐deficient (ApoE−/−) mice and wild‐type C57BL/6J (C57 wt) mice. The Morris water maze test was performed to assess the behaviour of the animals. The cortical contents of soluble Aβ1–40 and Aβ1–42 were detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). Cortical fatty acid levels were detected by gas chromatography. Gene and protein expression of molecules associated with cerebral Aβ and lipid metabolism were measured using real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), Western blot and histological methods.

Results

DHA treatment increased the content of cortical DHA and n‐3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (n‐3 PUFAs) but decreased the ratio of n‐6/n‐3 PUFAs in ApoE−/− mice; whereas the content of cortical DHA and n‐3 PUFAs in C57 wt mice remained unchanged after DHA treatment. Cerebral Fabp5 and Cd36 gene expression were significantly downregulated in DHA‐fed C57 wt mice; cerebral Cd36 and Scarb1 gene expression were significantly upregulated, whereas Fabp5 gene expression was downregulated in DHA‐fed ApoE−/− mice. In comparison with C57 wt mice, the content of cortical soluble Aβ1–42, total cholesterol (TC) and low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) increased, whereas the level of high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C) decreased in ApoE−/− mice. Interestingly, these differences were significantly reversed by DHA dietary treatment.

Conclusion

DHA intervention has discrepant impacts on cerebral lipids, fatty acid transporter expression and soluble Aβ levels in ApoE−/− and C57 wt mice, suggesting the modifying role of ApoE status on the responses of cerebral lipids and Aβ metabolism to DHA treatment.
A rereading of Caryl Churchill's Owners: Patriarchy and misogyny
Authors: Baştan Ajda
Published: October 2022

Caryl Churchill's first professional play, Owners, is about ownership as its title implies. One of the highlighted themes in the play is misogyny which has been overlooked by scholars and critics who have commented on Owners. Thus, my aim in this study is to consider and disclose the reasons for misogyny, demonstrated by Churchill as a socio‐political critique, through a feminist reading. As the play is generally examined within the context of themes of power, politics or possession, this article may contribute to correct this omission in the academic domain. In her dark comedy, Churchill emphasises how gender roles are culturally learned and transferred to succeeding generations. In Owners, the married couple Marion and Clegg are both misogynists, but endowed with opposing world views. Churchill, like a sociologist, has made this family the main subject of her play and used it as a point of reference when explaining the reasons for misogyny in a comic and exaggerated style. In this family, while Marion is equipped with bourgeois feminist and anti‐patriarchal ideas, Clegg is a man supporting patriarchal principles. Churchill reveals in her play that Marion and Clegg hate women who do not fit into their ideal world views.
The Effect of Diabetes Mellitus on the Neurological Function of Patients with Cervical Spondylotic Myelopathy
Authors: Jiang Jialin , Sun Kaiqiang , Lin Feng , Lu Mincheng , Huan Le , Xu Ximing , Sun Jingchuan , Shi Jiangang , Guo Yongfei
Published: October 2022

Objective

To evaluate the clinical value of diabetes mellitus for diagnosis and postoperative prognosis in patients with cervical spondylotic myelopathy undergoing anterior decompression and fusion.

Methods

A total of 84 Patients (50 males and 34 females) who underwent anterior decompression and fusion were reviewed in this single‐center retrospective study. The patients were divided into two groups (44 patients in the diabetes mellitus group and 40 in the non‐diabetic group). Clinical manifestations were evaluated, including characteristics baseline, clinical tests, MRI information, clinical scores, and complications. The predictive effect of diabetes mellitus on clinical scores were assessed via the receiver operating characteristic curve. The correlation between the severity of diabetes mellitus and neurological function recovery was estimated using the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

Patients with diabetes mellitus exhibited a higher ratio of hyperintensity of the spinal cord (P < 0.05) and worse preoperative clinical scores and neurological recovery (all P < 0.05). Receiver operating characteristic curve results indicated that diabetes mellitus could serve as a good indicator for preoperative evaluation of the Japanese Orthopedic Association (JOA) score (area under curve [AUC] = 0.639), visual analogue score (AUC = 0.642), and Nurick score (AUC = 0.740). In addition, analysis of JOA in isolation suggested that diabetes mellitus correlated closely with the sensory function in the upper and lower limbs (both P < 0.01). The Receiver operating characteristic curve also demonstrated that diabetes mellitus as a clinical test had a reasonable specificity for sensory function in the upper (AUC = 0.654) and lower limbs (AUC = 0.671). Both the level of HbA1c and the duration of diabetes mellitus were negatively correlated with the recovery rate of the JOA score. There was no significant difference between the perioperative complications between the two groups (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

This present study revealed that the neurological impairment caused by diabetes mellitus in patients undergoing anterior decompression and fusion does not only affect postoperative functional recovery but also interferes with the preoperative clinical manifestations, especially the sensory function in the upper and lower limbs.
Carnap's philosophy of mathematics
Authors: Marschall Benjamin
Published: October 2022

For several decades, Carnap's philosophy of mathematics used to be either dismissed or ignored. It was perceived as a form of linguistic conventionalism and thus taken to rely on the bankrupt notion of truth by convention. However, recent scholarship has revealed a more subtle picture. It has been forcefully argued that Carnap is not a linguistic conventionalist in any straightforward sense, and that supposedly decisive objections against his position target a straw man. This raises two questions. First, how exactly should we characterise Carnap's actual philosophy of mathematics? Secondly, is his position an attractive alternative to established views? I will tackle these issues by looking at Carnap's response to the incompleteness theorems. Drawing on arguments put forward by Gödel and Beth, I show that some crucial aspects of Carnap's positive account have remained underdeveloped. Suggestions on what a full evaluation of Carnap's position requires are made.