bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolution of the whistleblowing regime: the UAE model
Authors: Gibbs Tatyana
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to conceptualize the UAE’s whistleblowing model by reviewing recent legislative updates directed toward removing potential legal deterrents, introducing legal protection and establishing numerous external whistleblowing channels. The study surveys these initiatives through the prism of the country’s unique socio-economic and judicial environments.

Design/methodology/approach

The study applies a conceptual approach to probe the potential impact of the UAE’s legislative initiatives on the country’s whistleblowing regime by connecting the demographic data, the UAE’s legal and regulatory frameworks, academic literature and media reports.

Findings

Recent legislative updates to the UAE whistleblowing regime are geared toward removal of potential legal deterrents, introduction of legal protection and establishment of external whistleblowing channels for reporting. These constitute the conceptual model of the UAE’s whistleblowing strategy, which is broad in scope and application yet may appear fragmented.

Originality/value

The study merges a comprehensive review of legislative initiatives and regulatory framework with academic literature to conceptualize the UAE’s whistleblowing model.
How employees’ motivated needs relate to employees’ personal and workplace spirituality
Authors: Yarbrough Jillian Williamson , Ramos Salazar Leslie
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The aim of this paper was to examine the interrelationships between Maslow’s motivated needs in relation to employees’ personal and workplace spirituality experiences.

Design/methodology/approach

Regression analysis using a cross-sectional, convenience sampling approach of 158 US employees responding to survey questions using a Qualtrics survey related to their demographics, motivated needs, daily spirituality experiences, workplace spirituality, work spirituality experiences and work-related flow.

Findings

Correlation analyses provided support for Maslow’s hierarchy of needs in relation to employees’ daily spiritual experiences, workplace spirituality, work spirituality experiences and work-related flow. Regression analyses also identified the specific Maslow needs that served as predictive factors in relation to employees’ personal and workplace spirituality. Findings and conclusions are also discussed in relation to employees and organizations.

Practical implications

Currently, there are no correlation studies that have examined workplace spirituality as an ethical behavior in the workplace and Maslow’s hierarchy of needs. This correlation gap is notable because further examination of Maslow’s hierarchy of needs as a theoretical framework in relation to employees’ spirituality can be particularly valuable for contemporary work settings. Consider that today’s work environment is faced with dynamic and unique factors, and each of these factors not only changes the work environment but also they significantly drive or minimize employee motivation. Three such factors include new generations of employees with unique values entering the workforce and the great resignation and quiet quitting.

Social implications

The study identifies that Maslow’s belonging, esteem and self-transcendence are related positively to employees’ spiritual experiences in the workplace. When these needs are fulfilled in the work environment, employees may be more likely to engage in spiritual practices at work, such as participating in yoga, prayer and meditation and in fulfilling one’s motivated needs and spirituality, employees are able to pursue their true purpose in the workplace.

Originality/value

This study extends the literature regarding understanding the value of workplace spirituality as a positive outcome for the employees and organizations.
Smart heuristics in business relationships: toward a typology
Authors: Reb Jochen , Jha Nilotpal
Published: September 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to develop a typology of heuristics in business relationships. We distinguish between four categories: (1) general heuristics used in the context of a business relationship but that may also (and are often) used in other contexts; (2) relational context heuristics that are typically used in a relational context; (3) relational information heuristics that rely on relational information and (4) genuine relational heuristics that use relational information and are applied in relational contexts.

Design/methodology/approach

We draw on existing literature on heuristics and business relationships to inform our conceptual paper.

Findings

We apply this typology and discuss specific heuristics that fall under the different categories of our typology. These include word-of-mouth, tit-for-tat, imitation, friendliness, recognition and trust.

Research limitations/implications

We contribute to the heuristics literature by providing a novel typology of heuristics in business relationships. Emphasizing the interdependence between heuristics and business relationships, we identify genuine relational heuristics that capture the bidirectional relationships between business relationships and heuristics. Second, we contribute to the business relationships literature by providing a conceptual framework for understanding the types of heuristics managers use in business relationships and by discussing examples of specific heuristics and how they are applied in relational contexts.

Practical implications

We contribute to practice by providing a simple framework for making sense out of the “universe” of heuristics for business relationships.

Originality/value

Our paper provides a novel typology for understanding heuristics in business relationships.
Predicting sustainable tourism: examining customers’ intention to visit green hotels using an extended norm activation model
Authors: Waris Idrees , Mohd Suki Norazah
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to predict customers’ intention (INT) to visit green hotels through an extended norm activation model (NAM) framework. The extended NAM includes environmental concern (EC), price consciousness (PC) and aesthetic values (AEV).

Design/methodology/approach

A quantitative survey design was used to collect 340 valid responses from customers in Pakistan. Partial least square - structural equation modeling was used to assess the hypothesized relationships.

Findings

The results show that EC and awareness of consequences have a significant ascription of responsibility (AR) and personal norms (PN) towards INT. The results confirmed the moderating effect of PC on the relationship between PN and INT and the moderating effect of AEV on relationship between PN and INT and AR and INT. The findings indicate that PN does not mediate the relationship between AR and INT. These findings indicate that customers are aware of the consequences of resource depletion and environmental pollution that result from the unsustainable hotel practices. Therefore, customers tend to visit aesthetically green hotels at affordable prices.

Practical implications

The study proposes that green hotels should design marketing strategies in a way that increases customers’ awareness and concern towards environmental issues. Marketing campaigns focusing on environmental aspects of green hotels enhance its green reputation and motivate customers to visit green hotels. In addition, managers must consider enhancing the beauty of hotels at a competitive price.

Originality/value

This is the first study to use an extended NAM by integrating EC, average variance extracted and PC to predict customers’ INT towards green hotels. The extended NAM framework provides comprehensive understanding of the relationships between EC, AR and PN regarding visiting green hotels. In addition, the study emphasizes on AEV’s crucial role in influencing customers’ INT to visit green hotels.
Risk factors associated with early childhood diarrhea: a case-control study
Authors: Alshula Hawra , Alawami Kawther , Abdullatif Hawra , Alhamood Zahra , Alshaikh Zainab , Alawfi Jumanah , Purayidathil Tunny , Abuzaid Omar , Algindan Yassmin , Khattab Rabie
Published: September 2024

Purpose

This study aims to explore the link between prevalent risk factors for early childhood diarrhea, including hygiene, feeding, weaning practices and maternal education and the occurrence and severity of early childhood diarrhea in Saudi Arabia.

Design/methodology/approach

A case-control study was conducted, involving 98 mothers from the Eastern Region of Saudi Arabia (51 cases and 47 controls). Data were collected from both hospital and community sources. The collected data were statistically analyzed and depicted using descriptive statistics and frequency tables.

Findings

Demographic data revealed that 60% of mothers were housewives, 75% had normal deliveries and all babies were full term. In the study cohort, 44% of children aged one to two years. Four domains were compared: diarrheal management, hygiene, weaning and feeding practices. Diarrheal management was suboptimal in some cases: 29% increased fluid intake, 10% maintained adequate food intake, 50% sought medical advice, 58% were familiar with oral rehydration solutions and only 37% used them. Hygiene practices were deficient, with 35% using wipes or sanitizers, 64% handwashing before feeding and 52% adhering to the recommended 10-s duration. Controls exhibited better hygiene practices. Weaning practices were generally similar, with no significant differences between the two groups.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study to collectively report on the risk factors linked to early childhood diarrhea in Saudi Arabia. This study yields significant insights, highlighting the crucial role of managing diarrhea, educating mothers and implementing proper household practices in impacting the occurrence and severity of this perilous ailment.
Large grazers suppress a foundational plant and reduce soil carbon concentration in eastern US saltmarshes
Authors: Sharp S. J. , Davidson K. E. , Angelini C. , Fischman H. S. , Pennings S. , Fowler M. S. , Griffin J. N.
Published: September 2024

Large grazers modify vegetated ecosystems and are increasingly viewed as keystone species in trophic rewilding schemes. Yet, as their ecosystem influences are context‐dependent, a crucial challenge is identifying where grazers sustain, versus undermine, important ecosystem properties and their resilience.

Previous work in diverse European saltmarshes found that, despite changing plant and invertebrate community structure, grazers do not suppress below‐ground properties, including soil organic carbon (SOC). We hypothesised that, in contrast, eastern US saltmarshes would be sensitive to large grazers as extensive areas are dominated by a single grass, Spartina alterniflora. We predicted that grazers would reduce above‐ and below‐ground Spartina biomass, suppress invertebrate densities, shift soil texture and ultimately reduce SOC concentration.

We tested our hypotheses using a replicated 51‐month large grazer (horse) exclusion experiment in Georgia, coupled with observations of 14 long‐term grazed sites, spanning ~1000 km of the eastern US coast.

Grazer exclusion quickly led to increased Spartina height, cover and flowering, and increased snail density. Changes in vegetation structure were reflected in modified soil texture (reduced sand, increased clay) and elevated root biomass, yet we found no response of SOC. Large grazer exclusion also reduced drought‐associated vegetation die‐off.

We also observed vegetation shifts in sites along the eastern US seaboard where grazing has occurred for hundreds of years. Unlike in the exclusion experiment, long‐term grazing was associated with reduced SOC. A structural equation model implicated grazing by revealing reduced stem height as a key driver of reduced soil organic carbon.

Synthesis: These results illustrate the context dependency of large grazer impacts on ecosystem properties in coastal wetlands. In contrast to well‐studied European marshes, eastern US marshes are dominated and structured by a single foundational grass species resulting in vegetation and soil properties being more sensitive to grazing. Coastal systems characterised by a single foundation species might be inherently vulnerable to large grazers and lack resilience in the face of other disturbances, underlining that frameworks to explain and predict large grazer impacts must account for geographic variation in ecosystem structure.
Curcumin‐ and quercetin‐functionalized polypropylene membranes as active food packaging material
Authors: Karahaliloğlu Zeynep , Hazer Baki
Published: September 2024

A wide range of active agents, synthetic and natural agents such as essential oils, chitosan and polyphneols consisting of curcumin, gallic acid, anthocyanins, and catechins have been used in order to develop antimicrobial packaging systems, and among them, natural polyphenolic compounds, specially curcumin (Cur) has great potential due to effective biological activities in developing food packaging material. Quercetin (Quer) is also the mostly studied flavonol as a color‐changing indicator in the food industry and has been already developed as a realistic alternative for smart and active food packaging. The reason for choosing these two polyphenolic compounds is that they simultaneously possess many beneficial properties such as antioxidant, antibacterial, antiviral, antitumoral, and anti‐inflammatory effects. Additionally, the main objective of the study is to combine polypropylene (PP), which is the most preferred and cost‐effective polymer in the packaging industry, with these active ingredients, rather than using more expensive polymer types. In this context, PP‐Quer or PP‐Cur membranes, which are new experiences based on these literatures were chemically characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the surface morphology of these composite membranes was characterized by scanning electron microscopy. The antibacterial response against gram‐positive (Staphylococcus aureus) and gram‐negative (Escherichia coli) bacteria species was investigated. Furthermore, the reactive oxygen species generation and anticancer activity of these composite membranes using human colorectal adenocarcinoma (HT‐29) were observed. We proposed that PP‐Quer or PP‐Cur composite membranes can be a potential candidate as active packaging material in the food industry.
Update on Takayasu arteritis: Year in review 2024
Authors: Mruthyunjaya Prakashini , Misra Ramnath
Published: September 2024

Takayasu arteritis is an uncommon systemic inflammatory large vessel vasculitis affecting women in their third and fourth decades frequently. The disease poses considerable morbidity and mortality owing to the involvement of the aorta and its major branches. Treatment comprises medical and vascular interventions, tailored to each patient. We review the high‐impact publications of the year 2023 up to April 2024, which provide great insight into clinical, biomarker, imaging, pathogenetic, and therapeutic updates.
Fetal microchimerism cells suppress arthritis progression by inducing CD14+ IL‐10+ cells in pregnant experimental mice
Authors: Chang Da‐Wei , Wu Cheng‐Chi , Liu Fei‐Lan , Lu Chun‐Chi , Chu Chen‐Chih , Chang Deh‐Ming
Published: September 2024

Background

Fetal microchimerism occurs in the mother after a pregnancy. To investigate the role of fetal microchimerism cells (FMCs) in rheumatoid arthritis, we analyzed the population of fetal cells in pregnant experimental arthritis mice.

Methods

We used EGFP+ fetuses, which were mated with either healthy female mice or CIA mice, and male C57BL/6J‐Tg (Pgk1‐EGFP)03Narl mice, to detect the population of FMCs in maternal circulation. The disease progression was determined by measuring the clinical score and histological stains during pregnancy. The fetal cells have been analyzed if expressing EGFP, CD45, and Scal by flow cytometry. We also detected the expression of CD14+ IL‐10+ cells in vivo and in vitro.

Results

Our data showed that the pregnancy ameliorated the arthritis progression of CIA mice. The IHC stains showed the CD45 −Sca‐1+ EGFP+ FMCs were expressed in the bone marrow and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) at 14 gestation days. However, Treg and Tc cell populations showed no significant change in the bone marrow. The data showed the H2Kb + fetal cells induced CD14+ IL10+ cell populations increased in the bone marrow in vitro and in vivo.

Conclusion

Our investigations demonstrated that the FMCs protected the CIA mice from cartilage damage and triggered an immunosuppressive response in them by increasing the number of CD14+ IL10+ cells. In conclusion, the FMCs could potentially exhibit protective properties within the context of inflammatory arthritis that arises during pregnancy.
Analysis of the epidemiological trends and spatial patterns of esophageal cancer among male populations in China's mainland from 1990 to 2021
Authors: Qiao Xiaowei , Ma Chunxiao , Ma Changgeng , Zhang Guangcheng , Cui Yunshang , Wang Peicheng , Bai Bingyu , Wang Chunping
Published: September 2024

Background

This study aimed to delineate the temporal patterns of esophageal cancer epidemic trends and spatial clustering patterns among male populations in China's mainland from 1990 to 2021. This analysis aimed to provide a scientific rationale and empirical data to facilitate the formulation of targeted prevention and control strategies.

Methods

Data on the number of cases and deaths, crude and age‐standardized incidence and mortality rates of esophageal cancer in men were collected from the Global Burden of Disease Study and the Chinese Cancer Registry Annual Report. Global and local Moran's I spatial autocorrelation index was employed to quantify spatial clustering, and a disease map was drawn.

Results

From 1990 to 2021, the cumulative incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer in men were 6 100 342 and 5 972 294, respectively. The crude incidence and death rates increased in 2021, yet the age‐standardized rates decreased significantly. Cixian County in Hebei Province had the highest age‐standardized rates. The disease displayed spatial clustering, with relatively high rates in Shandong, Jiangsu, and Hebei Provinces.

Conclusion

Since 1990, the incidence and mortality of esophageal cancer among men in mainland China have remained high, imposing a considerable burden. Although age‐adjusted rates have declined, they are still relatively high overall, especially in Shandong, Hebei, and Jiangsu Provinces.
New Immunological Indexes for the Effect of Systemic Inflammation on Oocyte and Embryo Development in Women With Unexplained Infertility: Systemic Immune Response Index and Pan‐Immune‐Inflammation Value
Authors: Topkara Sucu Serap , Goktuğ Kadioglu Berrin , Elmas Burak , Ozer Mehmet Caner , Fidan Ulaş , Ozturk Mustafa , Ceyhan Seyit Temel
Published: September 2024

Problem

Predicting the impact of systemic inflammation on oocyte and embryonic development in unexplained infertile women using the new immunological indexes.

Method of Study

This retrospective cohort study was conducted using the records of the In Vitro Fertilization Department of Ankara Gülhane Training and Research Hospital. After reviewing the records of patients who had undergone in vitro fertilization (IVF) for unexplained infertility (UI) and excluding all known factors that could cause systemic immune inflammation, the systemic immune response index (SIRI), and pan‐immune score were calculated from the pre‐treatment hemogram parameters between the embryo arrest (EA) group and the embryo transfer group. It was investigated whether there was a statistical difference between the two groups and whether an SIRI value affecting embryo quality was found. A receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was performed to determine the optimal cut‐off values for inflammatory markers to predict EA.

Results

The 108 EA group (embryos that were arrested during their development and could not be transferred) and the 140 embryo transfer group showed statistically significant differences in the parameters of systemic inflammatory index (SII), SIRI, pan‐immune inflammation value (PIV), and neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (NLR) (p < 0.05). These inflammatory parameters, which were examined before ovulation induction, also correlated positively with the required total dose of gonadotropin and negatively with the ovarian sensitivity index (OSI). SII, SIRI, PIV, and NLR have specific cut‐off values with ROC analysis and determine the effect of the inflammatory status of the environment in which the oocyte develops on EA (p < 0.005).

Conclusion

In women with UI, high levels of systemic immune inflammation have a negative impact on oocyte and embryo development, and treatments to suppress inflammation may improve IVF success.
Filial piety belief profiles among Chinese couples: Associations with relationship satisfaction and insecure attachment
Authors: Chen Wei‐Wen , Zhang Lu Ran , Wu Chih‐Wen
Published: September 2024

The present study examined the heterogeneity of Chinese romantic couples' filial piety belief patterns. In addition, we investigated how the configuration of filial piety belief profiles within couples can link to individuals' perceptions of romantic relationship satisfaction and different attachment tendencies. We recruited 297 dyads of Chinese couples currently in heterosexual romantic relationships in the university. The couples completed self‐reported measures of dual filial piety beliefs (reciprocal and authoritarian filial piety), romantic relationship satisfaction, and insecure attachment (attachment anxiety and avoidance). We used latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify couples' dual filial piety belief interaction profiles. Four‐couple profiles emerged: (1) authoritarian couples, (2) balanced couples (while men with slightly higher reciprocal filial piety), (3) balanced couples (while men with lower reciprocal filial piety), and (4) divergent couples (balanced men and non‐filial women). The couples in the four profiles did not show significant differences in their romantic relationship satisfaction, but their attachment styles differed. (1) authoritarian couples experienced the highest levels of attachment anxiety and avoidance; (2) balanced couples experienced relatively lower levels of attachment anxiety and avoidance; and (3) non‐filial women in divergent couple profiles experienced significantly higher levels of attachment avoidance. This was the first study to uncover the possible associations between Chinese young couples' dual filial piety interaction profiles, and their dyadic relationship satisfaction and insecure attachment by adopting the person‐centered approach. We further discussed the theoretical and practical implications of the findings.
Asthma development is associated with low mucosal IL‐10 during viral infections in early life
Authors: Melgaard Mathias Elsner , Jensen Signe Kjeldgaard , Eliasen Anders , Pedersen Casper‐Emil Tingskov , Thorsen Jonathan , Mikkelsen Marianne , Vahman Nilofar , Schoos Ann‐Marie Malby , Gern James , Brix Susanne , Stokholm Jakob , Chawes Bo Lund , Bønnelykke Klaus
Published: September 2024

Background

Viral infection is a common trigger of severe respiratory illnesses in early life and a risk factor for later asthma development. The mechanism leading to asthma could involve an aberrant airway immune response to viral infections, but this has rarely been studied in a human setting.

Objectives

To investigate in situ virus‐specific differences in upper airway immune mediator levels during viral episodes of respiratory illnesses and the association with later asthma.

Methods

We included 493 episodes of acute respiratory illnesses in 277 children aged 0–3 years from the COPSAC2010 mother–child cohort. Levels of 18 different immune mediators were assessed in nasal epithelial lining fluid using high‐sensitivity MesoScale Discovery kits and compared between children with and without viral PCR‐identification in nasopharyngeal samples. Finally, we investigated whether the virus‐specific immune response was associated with asthma by age 6 years.

Results

Viral detection were associated with upregulation of several Type 1 and regulatory immune mediators, including IFN‐ɣ, TNF‐α, CCL4, CXCL10 and IL‐10 and downregulation of Type 2 and Type 17 immune mediators, including CCL13, and CXCL8 (FDR <0.05). Children developing asthma had decreased levels of IL‐10 (FDR <0.05) during viral episodes compared to children not developing asthma.

Conclusion

We described the airway immune mediator profile during viral respiratory illnesses in early life and showed that children developing asthma by age 6 years have a reduced regulatory (IL‐10) immune mediator level. This provides insight into the interplay between early‐life viral infections, airway immunity and asthma development.
Loneliness, sleep and daily stress: Evidence of direct and indirect effects
Authors: O'Connor Daryl B. , Rogerson Olivia
Published: September 2024

This study investigated: i) the effects of loneliness on self‐reported sleep outcomes and daily stress/hassles, ii) whether the effects of loneliness on sleep outcomes were mediated through prior‐day stress/hassles and iii) if the effects of loneliness on daily stress/hassles were mediated through prior‐night sleep measures. Using a 7‐day diary design, this study aimed to investigate relationships between loneliness, daily sleep outcomes and daily stress/hassles. Participants (N = 174, Mage 19.95, 86.2% female) completed the UCLA Loneliness Scale once before a 7‐day online diary twice per day. Measures of daily stress and hassles were completed before bed and sleep outcomes the following day. Multilevel modelling found higher levels of loneliness were associated with poorer sleep quality, greater pre‐sleep arousal, morning tiredness, fewer total hours slept and higher levels of daily stress and hassles across the 7‐day study. Loneliness was found also to have indirect effects on sleep quality, pre‐sleep arousal and morning tiredness through prior‐day daily stress and hassles. In addition, loneliness also had indirect effects on daily stress and hassles through prior night sleep measures. The current findings suggest that interventions aimed at mitigating the effects of loneliness should also incorporate components that target modifiable risk factors such as sleep and stress.
From employee socialization to co‐evolution: A lifespan multidisciplinary conceptualization
Authors: Houle Simon A. , Morin Alexandre J. S. , Vandenberghe Christian , Tóth‐Király István , Fernet Claude
Published: September 2024

Various theories have highlighted how employees evolve in their organization and how organizations influence this process, but only portray part of the complex relations among these interacting social entities. We thus propose a meta‐theory to unify these multiple theories, including symbolic interactionism, employee/organizational socialization theory, human resource management (HRM) systems theory, cultural consensus theory, and self‐determination theory. This integration seeks to increase our understanding of the co‐evolution process unfolding over time between individuals and the organizations to which they belong. We first propose a multilevel expansion of the symbolic interactionist framework typically used to described employee socialization. In doing so, we integrate organizational culture, climate, identity, image, reputation, and HRM systems as distinct meso‐social phenomena that can be simultaneously considered in the co‐evolution process and themselves be influenced by macro‐social processes. We then outline how this proposed framework can explain the dynamic co‐evolution occurring between employees and the organization, hoping to spur research on the improvement of social entities through psychological means.
Editorial: Incidence and predictors of major gastrointestinal bleeding in patients on aspirin, low‐dose rivaroxaban or the combination: Secondary analysis of the COMPASS randomised controlled trial
Authors: Sehgal Kanika , Shung Dennis L.
Published: September 2024

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Forbes et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.18139
The ancient Maya and the modern forest
Authors: Brokaw Nicholas , Ward Sheila E. , Beach Timothy , Luzzadder‐Beach Sheryl , Walling Stanley , Cortes‐Rincon Marisol , Valdez Fred
Published: September 2024

The land use of the ancient Maya strongly affected the environment of the previously forested Maya Lowlands. A forest grew back after the Maya “collapse”, some 1100 years ago. Two activities of the ancient Maya could have had widespread effects on the tree species composition of the regrown, modern forest. First, in areas with topographic relief Maya agriculture caused substantial soil erosion and accumulation, changing soil depth and character. Soil character is associated with differential distributions and abundances of many tree species in the Maya Lowlands. To the extent that soil character on the modern landscape differs from that on the pre‐Maya landscape, regrown forests on the modern landscape would differ from pre‐Maya forests. Second, the ancient Maya cleared much forest but likely also cultivated or favored certain tree species in home gardens, regenerating farm plots, and patches of older growth. A rigorous study suggests that descendants of favored tree species persist in elevated abundance in some areas of the modern forest but not in other areas. After c. 1100 years of regrowth in some places, the legacy of the ancient Maya in the modern forest likely ranges from strong to absent across the varied landscape of the Lowlands. An ancient mosaic of forest patches would have provided a species‐rich, multiple‐point source for forest regrowth. Such a mosaic is lacking in modern deforested tropical landscapes, likely inhibiting recovery of a species‐rich forest.
Topical Anti‐Inflammatory Treatments for Eczema: A Cochrane Systematic Review and Network Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Lax Stephanie J. , Van Vogt Eleanor , Candy Bridget , Steele Lloyd , Reynolds Clare , Stuart Beth , Parker Roses , Axon Emma , Roberts Amanda , Doyle Megan , Chu Derek K. , Futamura Masaki , Santer Miriam , Williams Hywel C. , Cro Suzie , Drucker Aaron M. , Boyle Robert J.
Published: September 2024

Objective

Eczema is the most burdensome skin condition worldwide and topical anti‐inflammatory treatments are commonly used to control symptoms. The relative effectiveness and safety of different topical anti‐inflammatory treatments is uncertain.

Design

Network meta‐analysis performed within a Cochrane systematic review to compare and statistically rank efficacy and safety of topical anti‐inflammatory eczema treatments.

Data Sources

Cochrane Skin Specialised Register, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, Embase and trial registries to June 2023.

Eligibility Criteria for Selected Trials

Included trials were within‐participant or between‐participant randomised controlled trials. Participants had eczema that was not clinically infected and was not contact dermatitis, seborrheic eczema or hand eczema. Interventions were topical anti‐inflammatory treatments but not complementary treatments, antibiotics alone, wet wraps, phototherapy or systemic treatments. Comparators were no treatment/vehicle or another topical anti‐inflammatory.

Results

We identified 291 trials (45,846 participants), mainly in high‐income countries. Most were industry‐funded with median 3 weeks treatment duration. Risk of bias assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias 2.0 tool was high in 89% of trials, mainly due to risk of selective reporting. Network meta‐analysis of binary outcomes ranked potent and/or very potent topical steroids, tacrolimus 0.1% and ruxolitinib 1.5% among the most effective treatments for improving patient‐reported symptoms (40 trials, all low confidence) and clinician‐reported signs (32 trials, all moderate confidence). For investigator global assessment, the Janus kinas inhibitors ruxolitinib 1.5%, delgocitinib 0.5% or 0.25%, very potent/potent topical steroids and tacrolimus 0.1% were ranked as most effective (140 trials, all moderate confidence). Continuous outcome data were mixed. Local application site reactions were most common with tacrolimus 0.1% (moderate confidence) and crisaborole 2% (high confidence) and least common with topical steroids (moderate confidence). Skin thinning was not increased with short‐term use of any topical steroid potency (low confidence) but skin thinning was reported in 6/2044 (0.3%) participants treated with longer‐term (6–60 months) topical steroids.

Conclusion

Potent topical steroids, Janus kinase inhibitors and tacrolimus 0.1% were consistently ranked as among the most effective topical anti‐inflammatory treatments for eczema.
Multiple congenital anomalies in two fetuses with glutathione‐synthetase deficit (GSS)
Authors: Jury Jeanne , Benoist Jean‐François , Joubert Madeleine , Quelin Chloé , Besnard Thomas , Conrad Solène , Le Vaillant Claudine , Bézieau Stéphane , Isidor Bertrand , Attié‐Bitach Tania , Cogné Benjamin , Vincent Marie
Published: September 2024

Glutathione synthetase deficiency is a rare inborn metabolic disease usually caused by biallelic variants in GSS. Clinical severity varies from isolated hemolytic anemia, sometimes associated with chronic metabolic acidosis and 5‐oxoprolinuria, to severe neurological phenotypes with neonatal lethality. Here we report on two fetal siblings from two pregnancies with glutathione synthetase deficiency exhibiting similar multiple congenital anomalies associating phocomelia, cleft palate, intra‐uterine growth retardation, genito‐urinary malformations, and congenital heart defect. Genome sequencing showed that both fetuses were compound heterozygous for two GSS variants: the previously reported pathogenic missense substitution NM_000178.4 c.800G>A p.(Arg267Gln), and a 2.4 kb intragenic deletion NC_000020.11:g.34944530_34946833del. RNA‐seq on brain tissue revealed the out‐of‐frame deletion of the exon 3 and an almost monoallelic expression of the missense variant (88%), suggesting degradation of the deletion‐harboring allele by nonsense‐mediated mRNA decay. 5‐oxoproline (pyroglutamic acid) levels in amniotic fluid were elevated, suggesting an alteration of the gamma‐glutamyl cycle, and corroborating the pathogenicity of the two GSS variants. Only one case of glutathione synthetase deficiency with limb malformations has previously been reported, in a newborn homozygous for the c.800G>A variant. Thus, our data allow us to discuss a potential phenotypic extension of glutathione synthetase deficiency, with a possible involvement of the c.800G>A variant.
Fathers' transformative caring experiences of engaging in music and singing with their children
Authors: Damsgaard Janne Brammer , Dyring Rasmus , Brinkmann Svend
Published: September 2024

This study explores the role of music and singing in fostering transformative caring relationships between fathers and their children. It aims to understand how these interactions contribute to fatherhood identity and relational dynamics, filling a significant gap in research on musical fatherhood. Employing a phenomenological‐hermeneutic approach, the study conducted open‐ended interviews with eight fathers, analysing data through the lens of Paul Ricoeur's theory of interpretation. Findings reveal that musical activities enable fathers to engage intuitively and responsively with their children, facilitating a pre‐verbal form of communication that deepens emotional bonds and enhances paternal identity. Music and singing emerge as powerful tools that transcend traditional parenting roles, allowing fathers to experience and express a potentiated sense of fatherhood marked by empathy, connection and care. This study highlights the profound impact of musical engagement on father–child relationships and suggests broader implications for emotional intelligence and gender roles in parenting.
CircSMAD3 represses VSMC phenotype switching and neointima formation via promoting hnRNPA1 ubiquitination degradation
Authors: Mei Shuai , Ma Xiaozhu , Zhou Li , Wuyun Qidamugai , Cai Ziyang , Yan Jiangtao , Ding Hu
Published: September 2024

Circular RNAs (circRNAs) are novel regulatory RNAs with high evolutionary conservation and stability, which makes them effective therapeutic agents for various vascular diseases. The SMAD family is a downstream mediator of the canonical transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β) signalling pathway and has been considered as a critical regulator in vascular injury. However, the role of circRNAs derived from the SMAD family members in vascular physiology remains unclear. In this study, we initially identified potential functional circRNAs originating from the SMAD family using integrated transcriptome screening. circSMAD3, derived from the SMAD3 gene, was identified to be significantly downregulated in vascular injury and atherosclerosis. Transcriptome analysis was conducted to comprehensively illustrate the pathways modulated by circRNAs. Functionally, circSMAD3 repressed vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) proliferation and phenotype switching in vitro evidenced by morphological assays, and ameliorated arterial injury‐induced neointima formation in vivo. Mechanistically, circSMAD3 interacted with heterogeneous nuclear ribonucleoprotein A1 (hnRNPA1) within the nucleus, enhanced its interaction with E3 ligase WD repeat domain 76 to promote hnRNPA1 ubiquitination degradation, facilitated p53 pre‐RNA splicing, activated the p53γ signalling pathway, and finally suppressed VSMC proliferation and phenotype switching. Our study identifies circSMAD3 as a novel epigenetic regulator that suppresses VSMC proliferation and phenotype switching, thereby attenuating vascular remodelling and providing a new circRNA‐based therapeutic strategy for cardiovascular diseases.
Education for Robust Self‐Respect in an Unjust World†
Authors: Li Shiying
Published: September 2024

Philosophical work on self‐respect has distinguished between various kinds of self‐respect. In this paper, Shiying Li begins by introducing important kinds of self‐respect and exploring the conceptual and empirical relations among them. She then discusses the value and political significance of social bases of self‐respect for both individuals and society. While political theory on this topic, especially from the Rawlsian tradition, has focused on the social bases of self‐respect in a well‐ordered society, Li takes on the task of uncovering the social bases of self‐respect in an unjust society marked by structural injustices such as racism, sexism, social stigmas, and economic and other social inequalities. She provides arguments, including public reason arguments, for the political priority and urgency of securing robust self‐respect for all in an unjust society, and thus paves the way for a discussion of the role that education, especially schooling, can and should play in securing robust self‐respect. Li concludes by offering reasons to direct special attention to specific aspects of schooling and by making suggestions regarding a curriculum and pedagogy aimed at securing robust self‐respect for all.
Buoyancy and vertical distribution of haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) eggs during embryonic development: A comparison with cod (Gadus morhua)
Authors: Stenevik Erling Kåre , Sundby Svein , Ådlandsvik Bjørn , Thorsen Anders
Published: September 2024

Vertical egg distributions are needed knowledge for understanding exposure to physical forcing, predation pressure, and modelling initial transport from the spawning areas. Egg density and size are the biotic factors determining vertical distributions while the ambient salinity and turbulent mixing are the physical factors contributing to their vertical distributions. Egg buoyancies and densities of Atlantic cod (Gadus morhua) have been extensively studied, while limited information on haddock (Melanogrammus aeglefinus) egg density is available. This is the first comprehensive study on haddock egg densities in Norwegian waters. Eggs were collected from pairs of spawning fish caught at the coast of western Norway and inserted into a density gradient column where density was measured. The haddock eggs were neutrally buoyant at salinities ranging from 28.5 to 31. The density changed during egg development, and the results from the measurements were used to model the vertical distribution of the eggs. The simulations showed that the changes in buoyancy substantially affected vertical distributions. A comparison to previously published data on cod eggs showed that haddock eggs are considerably more buoyant than the cod eggs and are—particularly during calm wind conditions—confined to the surface layer to a larger extent than the cod eggs. The more buoyant attribute of the haddock eggs, together with the lipophilic surface of the egg membrane, is suggested to make haddock eggs more vulnerable to buoyant pollutants, like hydrocarbons.
Sex differences in the clinical manifestations and treatment outcomes in a large cohort of spontaneous intracranial hypotension
Authors: Lin Po‐Tso , Hseu Shu‐Shya , Fuh Jong‐Ling , Lirng Jiing‐Feng , Chen Shih‐Pin , Chen Wei‐Ta , Wang Shuu‐Jiun , Wang Yen‐Feng
Published: September 2024

Objective

To determine sex differences in clinical profiles and treatment outcomes in patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension.

Background

Spontaneous intracranial hypotension is associated with considerable functional disability and potentially fatal complications, and it is uncertain whether males and females should be managed differently.

Methods

This was a cohort study of consecutive patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension enrolled from a medical center. Medical records and imaging findings were reviewed. The outcome of treatment responses to epidural blood patches and risks of subdural hematoma were measured.

Results

In total, 442 patients with spontaneous intracranial hypotension (165 males, 277 females) were included in the analysis. Males were more likely to have a delayed (>30 days) initial presentation than females (32.1% [53/165] vs. 19.9% [55/277], p = 0.004), and males were less likely to have nausea (55.8% [92/165] vs. 67.1% [186/277], p = 0.016), vomiting (43.0% [71/165] vs. 54.2% [150/277], p = 0.024), photophobia (9.7% [16/165] vs. 17.0% [47/277], p = 0.034), and tinnitus (26.7% [44/165] vs. 39.7% [110/277], p = 0.005) compared with females despite comparable radiologic findings. Among the 374 patients treated with epidural blood patches, males were more likely to be nonresponders to the first epidural blood patch (58.0% [80/138] vs. 39.0% [92/236], OR = 2.2, 95% CI = 1.4–3.3, p < 0.001). Males were at a higher risk of having subdural hematoma (29.7% [49/165] vs. 10.8% [30/277], OR = 3.5, 95% CI = 2.1–5.8, p < 0.001). Among patients with subdural hematoma, males had greater thickness (12.8 ± 4.3 vs. 8.1 ± 5.9 mm, p < 0.001) and were more likely to receive surgical drainage (55.1% [27/49] vs. 10.0% [3/30], OR = 11.0, 95% CI = 3.0–41.3, p < 0.001) than females.

Conclusion

In the present study, spontaneous intracranial hypotension in males was characterized by a delayed presentation, poorer response to the first epidural blood patch, and a higher risk of subdural hematoma. Caution should be exercised in the management of males with spontaneous intracranial hypotension. The generalizability of the findings needs to be further confirmed.
Pornography consumption and its effect on sexual performance in young men: Urology point of view
Authors: Lucumi Yorlavi , Nieva‐Posso Daniel Andrés , García‐Perdomo Herney Andrés
Published: September 2024

Chronic pornography use is a public health problem that has considerable effects on men's health, especially on their sexual performance, having effects that can be encompassed from a biological, social, and psychological approach. Our objective was to conduct a literature review to evaluate the consequences in terms of sexual performance of young men who have chronic consumption of pornography. Chronic pornography consumption was related to erectile dysfunction, premature ejaculation, and alterations in genital anatomy and physiology. Social and psychological effects were also found, such as increased rates of violence towards women, problems with partners, and intimacy. However, benefits of controlled consumption of pornography have also been identified, such as reaffirmation of sexual orientation, stimulation of self‐discovery of the body, and improved communication with partners. Chronic consumption of pornography has direct effects on the sexual performance of young people and should be evaluated by a multidisciplinary team that includes physiological, social, and psychological elements. However, its use may be recommended for people with psychological problems, urological problems, and urological cancer.
Belief in conspiracy theories and satisfaction in interpersonal relationships
Authors: Toribio‐Flórez Daniel , Green Ricky , Douglas Karen M.
Published: September 2024

Researchers have theorized about how belief in conspiracy theories can negatively affect interpersonal relationships. However, despite growing anecdotal evidence of the effects that conspiracy theories seem to have on people's relationships, a systematic assessment of these effects is lacking. In seven studies (six of them preregistered, N = 2526), we examined whether people's perceptions of others' conspiracy beliefs were negatively associated with their actual (or anticipated) relationship satisfaction with those others. We found that participants' perceptions of their social contacts' beliefs in general (Pilot Studies 1–2) and specific conspiracy theories (Study 1) were negatively associated with their relationship satisfaction with those contacts. Using a hypothetical scenario, we further observed that participants anticipated that their relationship satisfaction would worsen when one of these social contacts explicitly endorsed (vs. opposed) a conspiracy theory (Studies 2, 3a, and 3b). Finally, participants expected lower relationship satisfaction with a stranger who endorsed (vs. opposed) a conspiracy theory in their online dating profile (Study 4). Importantly, across all studies we observed that participants' own conspiracy beliefs moderated the association between others' conspiracy beliefs and relationship satisfaction, revealing a similarity–dissimilarity pattern: although the association was negative among participants with weaker conspiracy beliefs, we observed signals of reversal among participants with stronger conspiracy beliefs. Our findings further suggest that a process of attitudinal distancing (among other relational changes) could explain why perceived conspiracy beliefs negatively predicted relationship satisfaction. Taken together, this research provides evidence that conspiracy beliefs have the potential to harm interpersonal relationships.