bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sustainable supervisory relationships between postgraduate international students and supervisors: a qualitative exploration at a Malaysian research university
Authors: Nachatar Singh Jasvir Kaur
Published: April 2022

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the perceived sustainable supervisory relationships between supervisors and postgraduate international students at a research university in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on a qualitative study based on semi-structured interviews with 33 international postgraduate students and 10 academic staff at a Malaysian research university.

Findings

Perceived sustainable supervisory relationships were perceived by both stakeholders in terms of future employment rapport, further research collaborations upon graduation and global engagement via networking initiatives.

Originality/value

This paper contributes to the supervision literature by establishing novel nuances in the nature and lived experiences of the sustainable supervisory relationships beyond graduation. The implications of developing significant and profound relationships beyond graduation at micro and macro levels are also discussed.
How can aspects of quality of life be incorporated into corporate social responsibility strategies to achieve work life balance?
Authors: Zheng Jenny
Published: April 2022

Purpose

Employees in the hospitality industry have to adapt to a fast-paced and rapidly changing environment. Furthermore, employees must be able to handle a high volume of work and be willing to work long hours. In this context, the question is how can people work and cope with the pressures of hospitality businesses and at the same time, improve their QoL?

Design/methodology/approach

Outlines the various theories of corporate social responsibility (CSR) and reviews the meaning of the term quality of life (QoL). Thereafter, the article analyses three examples of hospitality companies (Radisson, Scandic and Peninsula Hotels) that have implemented CSR practices and the extent to which they align with the dimensions of QoL.

Findings

Concludes that well-conceived, multidimensional corporate social responsibility (CSR) strategies, combined with transparent reporting tend to enhance employee job satisfaction and quality of work life (QWL). It draws on the literature and case study examples from three companies with a reputation for sustainable thinking and practice.

Originality/value

Currently the links between CSR, QWL and QoL are not well understood, nor the role of CSR initiatives in achieving QoL outcomes and so the paper adds value by providing an explanation of QoL, CSR linked to case study examples.
Using physiological conditions to assess current and future habitat use of a Subarctic frog
Authors: HASTINGS Thomas P. , HOSSACK Blake R. , FISHBACK LeeAnn , DAVENPORT Jon M.
Published: April 2022

Species with especially close dependence on the environment to meet physiological requirements, such as ectotherms, are highly susceptible to the impacts of climate change. Climate change is occurring rapidly in the Subarctic and Arctic, but there is limited knowledge on ectotherm physiology in these landscapes. We investigated how environmental conditions and habitat characteristics influence the physiological conditions and habitat use of wood frogs (Rana sylvatica) in a Subarctic landscape near Churchill, Manitoba (Canada). We used plaster models to estimate water loss rates and surface body temperatures among different habitat types and at specific locations used by radio‐tracked frogs. Water loss (R2= 0.67) and surface temperature (R2= 0.80) of plaster models was similar to that of live frogs. Model‐based water loss rates were greater in tundra habitat than in boreal forest and ecotone habitat. Habitat use of wood frogs was strongly tied with available surface moisture and decreased water loss rates that were observed with plaster models. Environmental conditions, such as wind speed and ground temperature, explained 58% and 91% of the variation in water balance and temperature of plaster models. Maintaining physiological conditions may be challenging for semi‐aquatic ectotherms in environments vulnerable to future climate change. The ability to predict physiological conditions based on environmental conditions, as demonstrated in our study, can help understand how wildlife will respond to climatic changes.
Intratumoral genetic and immune microenvironmental heterogeneity in T4N0M0 (diameter ≥ 7 cm) non‐small cell lung cancers
Authors: Zhang Jia−Tao , Dong Song , Ji Li−Yan , Zhou Jia−Ying , Chen Zhi− Hong , Su Jian , Zhu Qing−Ge , Wang Meng−Min , Ke E−E. , Sun Hao , Li Xue−Tao , Yang Jin−Ji , Zhou Qing , Zhang Xu− Chao , Gao Xuan , Yang Xue−Ning , Xia Xuefeng , Yi Xin , Zhong Wen−Zhao , Wu Yi−Long
Published: April 2022

Background

Starting with low metastatic capability, T4N0M0 (diameter ≥ 7 cm) non‐small cell lung cancers (NSCLCs) constitute a unique tumor subset, as with a large tumor size but no regional or distant metastases. We systematically investigated intratumoral heterogeneity, clonal structure, chromosomal instability (CIN), and immune microenvironment in T4N0M0 (≥7 cm) NSCLCs.

Methods

Whole‐exome sequencing, RNA sequencing, and multiplex immunohistochemistry (mIHC) staining were conducted to analyze 24 spatially segregated tumor samples from eight patients who were pathologically diagnosed with T4N0M0 (diameter ≥ 7 cm) NSCLCs. The adjacent normal tissues and peripheral blood served as controls.

Results

In total, 35.2% of mutations and 91.1% of somatic copy number alterations were classified as subclonal events, which exhibited widespread genetic intratumoral heterogeneity. In contrast, a low degree of CIN was observed. None of the patients had genome doubling. The burden of loss of heterozygosity, aneuploidy, and the genome instability index of these tumors were significantly lower than those in the TRACERx cohort. Expression profiles revealed significantly upregulated expression of cell division‐related signals and the G2/M checkpoint pathway. In addition, a similar expression pattern of the immune microenvironment was observed in different regions of the tumor, which was confirmed by mIHC profiles.

Conclusions

Our study indicates the presence of intratumoral genetic heterogeneity and immune microenvironmental heterogeneity features in T4N0M0 NSCLCs, and the low degree of CIN may be related to the low metastatic capability.
The optimal therapy strategy for epidermal growth factor receptor‐mutated non‐small cell lung cancer patients with brain metastasis: A real‐world study from Taiwan
Authors: Cheng Wen‐Chien , Shen Yi‐Cheng , Chien Chun‐Ru , Liao Wei‐Chih , Chen Chia‐Hung , Hsia Te‐Chun , Tu Chih‐Yeh , Chen Hung‐Jen
Published: April 2022

Background

The treatment options for epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR)‐mutated non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) with brain metastases (BMs) include EGFR‐tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKIs), stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS), whole‐brain radiotherapy, brain surgery, and antiangiogenesis therapy. As treatment options evolve, redefining optimal treatment strategies to improve survival are crucial.

Methods

A total of 150 EGFR‐mutant NSCLC patients with BMs who received first‐ or second‐generation EGFR‐TKIs as first‐line treatment between January 2012 and October 2019 were included in this analysis.

Results

After multivariate analysis, patients with the graded prognostic assessment for lung cancer using molecular markers (Lung‐mol GPA) ≥3 (hazard ratio [HR]: 0.538, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.35–0.83), who received afatinib or erlotinib as first‐line treatment (HR: 0.521, 95% CI: 0.33–0.82), underwent SRS therapy (HR: 0.531, 95% CI: 0.32–0.87), or were sequentially treated with osimertinib (HR: 0.400, 95% CI: 0.23–0.71) were associated with improved overall survival (OS). Furthermore, SRS plus EGFR‐TKI provided more OS benefits in patients with Lung‐mol GPA ≥3 compared with EGFR‐TKI alone in our patient cohort (44.9 vs. 26.7 months, p = 0.005). The OS in patients who received sequential osimertinib therapy was significantly longer than those without osimertinib treatment (43.5 vs. 24.3 months, p < 0.001), regardless of T790 mutation status (positive vs. negative vs. unknown: 40.4 vs. 54.6 vs.43.4 months, p = 0.227).

Conclusions

The study demonstrated that EGFR‐mutant NSCLC patients with BMs could be precisely treated with SRS according to Lung‐mol GPA ≥3. Sequential osimertinib was associated with prolonged survival, regardless of T790M status.
A metatranscriptomic approach to explore longitudinal tissue specimens from non‐healing diabetes related foot ulcers
Authors: Radzieta Michael , Peters Timothy J. , Dickson Hugh G. , Cowin Allison J. , Lavery Lawrence A. , Schwarzer Saskia , Roberts Tara , Jensen Slade O. , Malone Matthew
Published: April 2022

Cellular mechanisms and/or microbiological interactions which contribute to chronic diabetes related foot ulcers (DRFUs) were explored using serially collected tissue specimens from chronic DRFUs and control healthy foot skin. Total RNA was isolated for next‐generation sequencing. We found differentially expressed genes (DEGs) and enriched hallmark gene ontology biological processes upregulated in chronic DRFUs which primarily functioned in the host immune response including: (i) Inflammatory response; (ii) TNF signalling via NFKB; (iii) IL6 JAK‐STAT3 signalling; (iv) IL2 STAT5 signalling and (v) Reactive oxygen species. A temporal analysis identified RN7SL1 signal recognition protein and IGHG4 immunoglobulin protein coding genes as being the most upregulated genes after the onset of treatment. Testing relative temporal changes between healing and non‐healing DRFUs identified progressive upregulation in healed wounds of CXCR5 and MS4A1 (CD20), both canonical markers of lymphocytes (follicular B cells/follicular T helper cells and B cells, respectively). Collectively, our RNA‐seq data provides insights into chronic DRFU pathogenesis.
Gender typicality and sexual minority labour market differentials
Authors: Burn Ian , Martell Michael E.
Published: April 2022

Sexual minorities experience significant differences in labour market outcomes relative to comparable heterosexuals, with larger differences in earnings than in labour supply. A common explanation of these differences is that they may reflect unobserved differences in masculinity and femininity in the sexual minority population. We leverage data on personality and behaviours in the National Study of Adolescent to Adult Health (Add Health) to test whether controlling for differences in masculinity and femininity through quantitative measures of gender typicality eliminates labour market differentials. While we find evidence that gender typicality does affect labour market outcomes of men and women on average, we find no evidence of a differential effect for gays and lesbians. Controlling for gender typicality does not affect the sexual orientation labour market differentials. The evidence suggests that existing estimates of earnings differentials are not affected by omitted variable bias due to not controlling for gender typicality.
Amelioration of endothelial dysfunction by sodium glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors: pieces of the puzzle explaining their cardiovascular protection
Authors: Li Xiaoling , Preckel Benedikt , Hermanides Jeroen , Hollmann Markus W. , Zuurbier Coert J. , Weber Nina C.
Published: April 2022

Sodium glucose co‐transporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2is) improve cardiovascular outcomes in both diabetic and non‐diabetic patients. Preclinical studies suggest that SGLT‐2is directly affect endothelial function in a glucose‐independent manner. The effects of SGLT‐2is include decreased oxidative stress and inflammatory reactions in endothelial cells. Furthermore, SGLT2is restore endothelium‐related vasodilation and regulate angiogenesis. The favourable cardiovascular effects of SGLT‐2is could be mediated via a number of pathways: (1) inhibition of the overactive sodium‐hydrogen exchanger; (2) decreased expression of nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate oxidases; (3) alleviation of mitochondrial injury; (4) suppression of inflammation‐related signalling pathways (e.g., by affecting NF‐κB); (5) modulation of glycolysis; and (6) recovery of impaired NO bioavailability. This review focuses on the most recent progress and existing gaps in preclinical investigations concerning the direct effects of SGLT‐2is on endothelial dysfunction and the mechanisms underlying such effects.
Endogenous fluctuations and international business cycles
Authors: McKnight Stephen , Povoledo Laura
Published: April 2022

We introduce equilibrium indeterminacy into a two‐country incomplete asset model with imperfect competition to analyze the role of self‐fulfilling expectations or beliefs in explaining international business cycles. We find that, when self‐fulfilling beliefs are correlated with technology shocks, the model can account for the countercyclical behaviour observed for the terms of trade and real net exports while simultaneously generating higher volatilities relative to output, as in the data. The choice of the labour‐supply elasticity is shown to be critical for generating a negative correlation between the real exchange rate and relative consumption, thereby resolving the Backus–Smith puzzle.
Narrative Matters: Encanto and intergenerational trauma
Authors: Conroy Sydney
Published: April 2022

Encanto is Disney's latest animated film about a Colombian family blessed with a miracle following painful events of conflict and death. The miracle provides gifts (perfection, strength, and weather control) to each member of the family, except for one, whose gift only reveals itself as the film progresses. This article examines Encanto as an introductory exploration into the experience of intergenerational trauma within one family including defining, experiencing, and healing intergenerational trauma.
Analysis of implant loss risk factors after simultaneous guided bone regeneration: A retrospective study of 5404 dental implants
Authors: Shen Xiaoting , Yang Sijia , Xu Yangbo , Xu Jiangang , Feng Yi , He Fuming
Published: April 2022

Purpose

The purpose was to analyze the risk factors for implant loss after simultaneous guided bone regeneration (GBR).

Materials and Methods

Patients who underwent implant placement with simultaneous GBR between January 2011 and December 2018 were screened for this study. The cumulative survival rate (CSR) was calculated using the life table method. Log‐rank test and Kaplan–Meier survival estimates were used to identify potential risk factors for implant loss. The association between the investigated variables and implant loss was determined using hazard ratios (HRs) obtained from a multivariate Cox regression analysis.

Results

A total of 3973 patients with 5404 implants were included in this study. The CSRs of the implants at 1, 5, and 10 years were 99.6%, 98.9%, and 98.7%, respectively. Male patient (HR = 2.94, 95% CI: 1.41–6.14), periodontitis (HR = 4.26, 95% CI: 2.05–9.86), tissue‐level implants (HR = 3.02, 95% CI: 1.30–6.98), narrow implants (HR = 2.71, 95% CI: 1.12–6.57), and implant length ≤10 mm (HR = 2.91, 95% CI: 1.41–6.02) significantly increased the risk of implant loss (p < 0.05). The risk of implant loss was significantly higher in the maxillary posterior region (HR = 2.26, 95% CI: 1.04–4.90) than in the maxillary anterior region (p < 0.05). Compared to Straumann, Nobel (HR = 4.07, 95% CI: 1.75–9.44) and other implant systems (HR = 14.23, 95% CI: 4.32–46.85) showed a significantly higher risk of implant loss (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Male patient, periodontitis, maxillary posterior region, Nobel implant system, other implant systems, tissue‐level implants, narrow implants, and implant length ≤10 mm were considered risk factors for implant loss after simultaneous GBR.
Mortality of the oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis, during pupation in insect pest suppressive soils
Authors: Menzler‐Hokkanen Ingeborg , Ruhanen Helena , Hokkanen Heikki M.T.
Published: April 2022

The oriental fruit fly, Bactrocera dorsalis (Hendel) (Diptera: Tephritidae), is an important pest of various crops. Little is known about the role naturally present soil‐entomopathogens play in its mortality. Preimaginal mortality of B. dorsalis during pupation in soil was determined in 3‐dl plastic pots in the laboratory, simulating natural conditions. Eleven treatments included standard potting soil, sterilized sand, no pupation medium, standard soil amended one‐by‐one with beneficial soil organisms [the fungi Beauveria bassiana (Bals.‐Criv.) Vuill., Metarhizium robertsii JF Bisch, SA Rehner & Humber, Isaria fumosorosea Wize, and Glomus spp. (each one dose), and the nematode Steinernema feltiae (Filipjev) (three doses)], and standard soil amended with a consortium of beneficals. Preimaginal mortality varied widely from 32–36% (Glomus spp., untreated soil, and S. feltiae low dose) to 85% (no pupation medium). From all treatments with beneficials, amending standard potting soil with a high dose of S. feltiae caused the highest mortality (80%). A microbial consortium led to much higher mortality (77.5%) than any of its single components alone: S. feltiae medium dose (58%), B. bassiana (56%), and M. robertsii (50%). The two other microbial treatments (I. fumosorosea and Glomus spp.) did not significantly increase mortality compared to untreated soil during pupation. We conclude that mortality during pupation of B. dorsalis under field conditions is likely to be highly important to the population dynamics of the pest. Therefore, management of the soil in agricultural fields, including orchards, to favour microbial antagonists of insects can be a powerful tool in the management of this important pest.
Sex‐dependent impact of microbiota status on cerebral μ‐opioid receptor density in fischer rats
Authors: Effah Felix , de Gusmão Taveiros Silva Nívea Karla , Vijayanathan Katie , Camarini Rosana , Joly Fatima , Taiwo Benjamin , Rabot Sylvie , Champeil‐Potokar Gaëlle , Bombail Vincent , Bailey Alexis
Published: April 2022

μ‐opioid receptors (MOPr) play a critical role in social play, reward and pain, in a sex‐ and age‐dependent manner. There is evidence to suggest that sex and age differences in brain MOPr density may be responsible for this variability; however, little is known about the factors driving these differences in cerebral MOPr density. Emerging evidence highlights gut microbiota's critical influence and its bidirectional interaction with the brain on neurodevelopment. Therefore, we aimed to determine the impact of gut microbiota on MOPr density in male and female brains at different developmental stages. Quantitative [3H]DAMGO autoradiographic binding was carried out in the forebrain of male and female conventional (CON) and germ‐free (GF) rats at postnatal days (PND) 8, 22 and 116–150. Significant ‘microbiota status X sex’, ‘age X brain region’ interactions and microbiota status‐ and age‐dependent effects on MOPr binding were uncovered. Microbiota status influenced MOPr levels in males but not females, with higher MOPr levels observed in GF versus CON rats overall regions and age groups. In contrast, no overall sex differences were observed in GF or CON rats. Interestingly, within‐age planned comparison analysis conducted in frontal cortical and brain regions associated with reward revealed that this microbiota effect was restricted only to PND22 rats. Thus, this pilot study uncovers the critical sex‐dependent role of gut microbiota in regulating cerebral MOPr density, which is restricted to the sensitive developmental period of weaning. This may have implications in understanding the importance of microbiota during early development on opioid signalling and associated behaviours.
Ambient air pollution and epileptic seizures: A panel study in Australia
Authors: Chen Zhuying , Yu Wenhua , Xu Rongbin , Karoly Philippa J. , Maturana Matias I. , Payne Daniel E. , Li Lyra , Nurse Ewan S. , Freestone Dean R. , Li Shanshan , Burkitt Anthony N. , Cook Mark J. , Guo Yuming , Grayden David B.
Published: April 2022

Objective

Emerging evidence has shown that ambient air pollution affects brain health, but little is known about its effect on epileptic seizures. This work aimed to assess the association between daily exposure to ambient air pollution and the risk of epileptic seizures.

Methods

This study used epileptic seizure data from two independent data sources (NeuroVista and Seer App seizure diary). In the NeuroVista data set, 3273 seizures were recorded using intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG) from 15 participants with refractory focal epilepsy in Australia in 2010–2012. In the seizure diary data set, 3419 self‐reported seizures were collected through a mobile application from 34 participants with epilepsy in Australia in 2018–2021. Daily average concentrations of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen dioxide (NO2), ozone (O3), particulate matter ≤10 μm in diameter (PM10), and sulfur dioxide (SO2) were retrieved from the Environment Protection Authority (EPA) based on participants’ postcodes. A patient‐time‐stratified case‐crossover design with the conditional Poisson regression model was used to determine the associations between air pollutants and epileptic seizures.

Results

A significant association between CO concentrations and epileptic seizure risks was observed, with an increased seizure risk of 4% (relative risk [RR]: 1.04, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.01–1.07) for an interquartile range (IQR) increase of CO concentrations (0.13 parts per million), whereas no significant associations were found for the other four air pollutants in the whole study population. Female participants had a significantly increased risk of seizures when exposed to elevated CO and NO2, with RRs of 1.05 (95% CI: 1.01–1.08) and 1.09 (95% CI: 1.01–1.16), respectively. In addition, a significant association was observed between CO and the risk of subclinical seizures (RR: 1.20, 95% CI: 1.12–1.28).

Significance

Daily exposure to elevated CO concentrations may be associated with an increased risk of epileptic seizures, especially for subclinical seizures.
Diagnosis of tuberculosis in dialysis and kidney transplant patients
Authors: Ali Mahrukh , Dosani Dhriti , Corbett Richard , Johansson Lina , Charif Rawya , Kon Onn Min , Duncan Neill , Ashby Damien
Published: April 2022

Background and objectives

In patients with chronic kidney disease the risk of developing Tuberculosis is increased, while the presentation is often atypical making the diagnosis more difficult. The aim of this study is to describe the presentation of Tuberculosis in dialysis and kidney transplant patients, including the range of diagnostic approaches and the utility of different sample types.

Design, setting, participants, and measurements

In this retrospective study, case records of dialysis and kidney transplant patients were reviewed, including all those treated for Tuberculosis between January 2009 and December 2020.

Results

Over 12 years, there were 143 cases of Tuberculosis in 141 patients (aged 17–86, 50.4% male). Tuberculosis was most common in Asian patients (64%) and those receiving hemodialysis (82%), particularly during the first year after dialysis initiation (54% of dialysis cases). Non‐pleural/pulmonary disease accounted 40% of cases, and non‐organ‐specific presenting features were prominent including fever, lymphadenopathy, and weight loss. The diagnosis was confirmed microbiologically or histologically in 87 cases (61%), with low sensitivity observed for many types of samples including sputum (18%) and pleural fluid (12%). Higher sensitivity was observed with tissue samples including bronchoscopic lymph node aspiration (75%) and other lymph node sampling (92%). In the 52 cases where drug sensitivities were available, resistance to a first line treatment, most commonly isoniazid, was seen in 12 cases (23%). Furthermore, 1‐ and 5‐year survival from diagnosis were 78% and 61%, respectively. Baseline variables independently associated with poorer survival were age (OR 1.8 per decade, 95% CI 1.4–2.3), weight loss over 10% (OR 1.9, 95% CI 1.0–3.5), and a non‐confirmed diagnosis (OR 1.6, 95% CI 1.2–2.1).

Conclusions

Tuberculosis is common in dialysis and kidney transplant patients, particularly during the first year of dialysis. Short‐term mortality is high, but the diagnostic sensitivity of many types of samples is low, so that diagnosis is difficult, with treatment often initiated without confirmation. These data highlight the importance of judgment and clinical experience with this complex patient group.
Endometrial neuroendocrine carcinoma and undifferentiated carcinoma are distinct entities with overlap in neuroendocrine marker expression
Authors: Tessier‐Cloutier Basile , Kang Eun‐Young , Alex Deepu , Stewart Colin J R , McCluggage W Glenn , Köbel Martin , Lee Cheng‐Han
Published: April 2022

Aims

Dedifferentiated endometrial carcinomas (DDECs)/undifferentiated endometrial carcinomas (UDECs) frequently harbour genomic activation of switch/sucrose non‐fermentable (SWI/SNF)‐complex proteins, and can show histological overlap with neuroendocrine carcinoma (NEC). The aim of this study was to compare the extent of the expression of neuroendocrine markers, SWI/SNF proteins and mismatch repair (MMR) proteins in DDEC/UDEC and NEC.

Methods and results

The extent of expression of synaptophysin, chromogranin, CD56, ARID1A, ARID1B, SMARCA4, SMARCB1 and MMR proteins was evaluated by immunohistochemistry on 44 SWI/SNF‐deficient DDECs/UDECs and 15 NECs. Thirty‐three of 44 (75%) DDECs/UDECs showed expression of at least one neuroendocrine marker, with 18 of 44 (41%) expressing two or more neuroendocrine markers, whereas all 15 NECs showed expression of at least one neuroendocrine marker, with 14 of 15 (93%) expressing two or more neuroendocrine markers. Neuroendocrine marker expression in DDECs/UDECs was typically focal when present, with average extents of 17%, 4% and 8% for synaptophysin, chromogranin and CD56 in the positive cases, respectively, in contrast to 73%, 40% and 62% in the positive NEC cases, respectively. All 15 NECs showed intact expression of SWI/SNF‐complex proteins, except for one that showed isolated loss of ARID1A. Thirty‐eight of 44 DDECs/UDECs were MMR‐abnormal (34 with loss of MLH1 and PMS2, and four with loss of PMS2 alone), whereas all NECs retained MMR protein expression.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates frequent but typically focal neuroendocrine marker expression in SWI/SNF‐deficient DDECs/UDECs, whereas NECs typically express two or more neuroendocrine markers, with diffuse expression of at least one marker. ARID1B, SMARCA4 and SMARCB1 immunohistochemistry can be used to aid in the differentiation between DDEC/UDEC and NEC.
The prevalence of nonmelanoma skin cancer in a population of patients with oculocutaneous albinism in Haiti
Authors: Hassan Shahzeb , Louis Shesly J. , Fethiere Myriam , Dure Danie , Rosen Jordan , Morrison Brian W.
Published: April 2022

Background

Multiple studies have examined the prevalence of nonmelanoma skin cancers (NMSC) in patients with oculocutaneous albinism (OCA). However, to date, no studies have examined this data in Caribbean populations.

Methods

This study is a cross‐sectional study of 106 patients with OCA who were seen at the Oculocutaneous Albinism Clinic in Port‐au‐Prince and Gros Morne, Haiti, between the dates of February 2017 and June 2018.

Results

In our population, 31/106 (29%) patients were found to have NMSC, 10/31 (32%) had BCC, 12/31 (39%) had SCC, and 9/31 (29%) had both types of NMSC. The most common age groups were 31–40 years, with the overall range of ages being 18–63 years. Also, 60/106 (57%) of the patients had actinic keratoses (AK).

Conclusions

Our study provides new data examining the prevalence of NMSC within a population of patients with OCA in Haiti. Overall, it shows that patients with albinism develop NMSC at an earlier age compared with the rest of the population. Therefore, appropriate skin cancer screening and surveillance should be implemented within this high‐risk population group.
Development of a prediction protocol for the screening of metabolic associated fatty liver disease in children with overweight or obesity
Authors: Oses Maddi , Cadenas‐Sanchez Cristina , Medrano María , Galbete Arkaitz , Miranda‐Ferrua Emiliano , Ruiz Jonatan R. , Sánchez‐Valverde Felix , Ortega Francisco B. , Cabeza Rafael , Villanueva Arantxa , Idoate Fernando , Labayen Idoia
Published: April 2022

Background

The early detection and management of children with metabolic associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) is challenging.

Objective

To develop a non‐invasive and accurate prediction protocol for the identification of MAFLD among children with overweight/obesity candidates to confirmatory diagnosis.

Methods

A total of 115 children aged 8–12 years with overweight/obesity, recruited at a primary care, were enrolled in this cross‐sectional study. The external validation was performed using a cohort of children with overweight/obesity (N = 46) aged 8.5–14.0 years. MAFLD (≥5.5% hepatic fat) was diagnosed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Fasting blood biochemical parameters were measured, and 25 candidates’ single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were determined. Variables potentially associated with the presence of MAFLD were included in a multivariate logistic regression.

Results

Children with MAFLD (36%) showed higher plasma triglycerides (TG), insulin, homeostasis model assessment of insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), aspartate transaminase (AST), glutamyl‐transferase (GGT) and ferritin (p < 0.05). The distribution of the risk‐alleles of PPARGrs13081389, PPARGrs1801282, HFErs1800562 and PNLPLA3rs4823173 was significantly different between children with and without MAFLD (p < 0.05). Three biochemical‐ and/or SNPs‐based predictive models were developed, showing strong discriminatory capacity (AUC‐ROC: 0.708–0.888) but limited diagnostic performance (sensitivity 67%–82% and specificity 63%–69%). A prediction protocol with elevated sensitivity (72%) and specificity (84%) based on two consecutive steps was developed. The external validation showed similar results: sensitivity of 70% and specificity of 85%.

Conclusions

The HEPAKID prediction protocol is an accurate, easy to implant, minimally invasive and low economic cost tool useful for the early identification and management of paediatric MAFLD in primary care.
A‐site acceptor‐doping strategy to enhance oxygen transport in sodium–bismuth–titanate perovskite
Authors: Shih Duke P.C. , Aguadero Ainara , Skinner Stephen J.
Published: April 2022

Sodium–bismuth–titanate (NBT) has recently been shown to contain high levels of oxide ion conductivity. Here we report the effect of A‐site monovalent ions, M+ = K+ and Li+, on the electrical conductivity of NBT. The partial replacement of Bi3+ with monovalent ions improved the ionic conductivity by over one order of magnitude without an apparent change of the conduction mechanism, which is attributed to an increase in the oxygen vacancy concentration based on an acceptor‐doping approach. The 18O tracer‐diffusion coefficient (D*) determined by the isotope exchange depth profile method in combination with secondary ion mass spectrometry confirmed that oxygen ions are the main charge carriers in the system. Among these acceptor‐doped samples, 4% Li doping provides the highest total conductivity, leading to a further discussion of doping strategies for NBT‐based materials to enhance the electrical behavior, is discussed. Comparisons with other oxide‐ion conductors and an oxygen‐vacancy diffusivity limit model in perovskite lattice suggested that the doped NBT‐based materials might already have achieved the optimization of the ionic conductivity.
Implementation of diabetes care and educational program via telemedicine in patients with COVID‐19 in home isolation in Thailand: A real‐worldexperience
Authors: Harindhanavudhi Tasma , Areevut Chatvara , Sahakitrungruang Taninee , Tharavanij Thipaporn , Kietdumrongwong Pongtorn , Ngimruksa Orasa , Songsiri Patitta , Pitukweerakul Siwadon , Tanathornkirati Nattamon , Kaewprasert Natthapon , Thamcharoen Ruchirek , Karndumri Krittadhee , Saetung Sunee , Anthanont Pimjai , Kiattisakthavee Pornpimol , Putkong Sarapee , Chotwanvirat Phawinpon , Nartsupha Phattanasri Chorthip , Jinadit Srikorn , Korpaisarn Sira , Chusane Manusvinee , Samittarucksa Rattanapan , Lertrit Amornpan , Siangruangsang Sanguansak , Sanpawithayakul Kanokporn , Sathiravikarn Waraporn , Soisuwan Sataporn , Chevaisrakul Parawee , Imsakul Kanokporn , Thuptimtong Pinradakarn , Sakmanarit Jandanee , Somwang Supaporn , Prasartkaew Hussamon , Jerawatana Ratanaporn , Butadej Siriwan , Tachanivate Porntip , Jongjaroenprasert Wallaya , Sripatong Jeeraphan , Chobtangsilp Sunanta , Kamnirdsittiseree Pattraphorn , Savetkairop Benjaporn , Manosittisak Warot , Tantivatanasatien Jitra , Hathaidechadusadee Amornrat , Reutrakul Sirimon
Published: April 2022

Background

The coronavirus disease (COVID‐19) outbreak in Bangkok led to a shortage of hospital capacity, and a home isolation system was set up. We described the process of diabetes self‐management education and support (DSMES) and glycemic management via telemedicine, along with outcomes in home‐isolated patients with COVID‐19 infection.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of glucose values, insulin and corticosteroids use, and outcomes was performed.

Results

A volunteer group of 21 endocrinologists and 21 diabetes educators/nurses formed the consultation team. Patients with diabetes or at high‐risk of diabetes and receiving corticosteroids were referred by primary volunteer physicians. Glucometers and related supplies, and insulin were donated, and delivered via same‐day delivery services. A chat group of an individual patient/their caregiver, diabetes educator, endocrinologist, and primary physician was formed (majority via LINE® platform) to assess the patient's clinical status and need. Real‐time virtual DSMES sessions were performed and treatments were adjusted via smartphone application or telephone. There were 119 patients (1,398 service days), mean (SD) age 62.0 (13.6) years, 85.7% had a history of type 2 diabetes, and 84.0% received corticosteroids. Insulin was used in 88 patients; 69 of whom were insulin‐naïve. During the first 10 days, there were 2,454 glucose values. The mean glucose level on day 1 was 280.6 (122.3) mg/dL, and declined to 167.7 (43.4) mg/dL on day 10. Hypoglycemia occurred in 1.4% of the values. A majority of patients (79.5%) recovered at home.

Conclusion

Diabetes care and DSMES delivered via telemedicine to patients on home isolation during COVID‐19 pandemic was safe and effective.
High‐resolution otolith elemental signatures in eteline snappers from valuable deepwater tropical fisheries
Authors: Sih Tiffany Lorraine , Williams Ashley John , Hu Yi , Kingsford Michael John
Published: April 2022

Marine resources are often shared among countries, with some fish stocks straddling multiple Exclusive Economic Zones, therefore understanding the structure of populations is important for the effective management of fish stocks. Otolith chemical analyses could discriminate among populations based on differences in the chemical composition of otoliths. We used otoliths from two deepwater snappers (flame snapper Etelis coruscans and ruby snapper Etelis boweni) to examine the evidence for population structure across six Pacific Island countries using solution‐based inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP‐MS) for otolith core and whole otolith samples and laser ablation ICP‐MS (LA‐ICP‐MS) for core and edge areas of a cross‐sectioned otolith. The inter‐species comparison of these methods is important as the two species are often managed under the same regulations. For both species, the two methods demonstrated separation among the locations sampled with high classification accuracy. Smaller laser ablation spot size gave greater temporal resolution over the life‐history transect. Comparing the early life‐history section of the otoliths (i.e., the core), one interpretation is that young fish experienced more uniform environments in the open ocean as larvae than adults, as the elemental fingerprints had greater overlap among multiple locations. LA‐ICP‐MS methods had some advantages over solution‐based ICP‐MS and generally better discrimination for the trace elements investigated. There were substantial differences between species, but both methods suggested nonmixing populations at the regional scale. Otolith chemistry can be an effective tool in discriminating variation for deepwater marine species in multispecies fisheries, and edge measurements from LA‐ICP‐MS provided the greatest resolution. Although caution should be taken in interpreting the results from relatively small samples sizes, otolith chemical analyses could be useful at these spatial scales to investigate population structure. This information on separate or overlapping populations could be used in future regional fishery management plans.
Protective effects of oral administration of mixed probiotic spores of Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus coagulans on gut microbiota changes and intestinal and liver damage of rats infected with Salmonella Typhimurium
Authors: Mazkour Somaye , Shekarforoush Seyed Shahram , Basiri Sara , Namazi Fatemeh , Zarei‐Kordshouli Forough
Published: April 2022

Although the intestinal lumen is a significant way to enter pathogens such as Salmonella, they face a dense microbiota in the gut lumen. This community confers health benefits. Probiotics enhance the colonization resistance and direct inhibition of pathogens, which are essential in reducing the incidence and duration of gastroenteritis and histopathological complications of enteric pathogens. In this study, the spores of two probiotic bacteria, Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus coagulans, were fed to rats for 3 weeks through their daily water intake. After that, Salmonella typhimurium was gavaged to the rats. On days 1, 3, 5, and 7 after gavaging, intestinal microbiota were evaluated, and on days 3, 5, and 7 after gavaging, gut and liver histopathological changes were also evaluated. Salmonella caused no changes in the spore and aerobic bacteria population compared to the control group, but it increased anaerobic and coliform bacteria and reduced lactic acid bacteria (LAB). But B. subtilis and B. coagulans reduced anaerobic and coliform bacteria and decreased the LAB population following Salmonella infection. Also, the histopathological evaluation showed that these probiotics attenuated the shortening and fusion of villi, mononuclear cell infiltration, submucosal edema, and epithelial necrosis in the intestine, hepatocyte degeneration, and mononuclear cell infiltration in the liver, which occurred due to Salmonella infection. B. subtilis and B. coagulans help the maintenance of the gut microflora population and reduce the histopathological effects when exposed to Salmonella, which causes the reduction of these pathogen's effects and early recovery.
Personality coherence as a personality dynamics‐related concept
Authors: Fajkowska Małgorzata
Published: April 2022

Extant theoretical models of personality coherence/incoherence do not sufficiently address the challenge of explaining personality coherence dynamics and the role of psychological mechanisms, including temperament and attention. To overcome these limitations, the Complex‐System Approach to Personality (C‐SAP) postulates that personality coherence is a within‐person structure that arises from the functional consistency/inconsistency between personality traits/types, underlain by specific attentional and temperament mechanisms that have integrative and regulatory potential. The dominant (reactive, regulative) function of stimulation processing in temperament types is the foundation for assessing personality coherence. This paper presents a revised, fine‐grained model of personality coherence—originally arising from the C‐SAP—that is enriched by a focus on personality coherence dynamics in relation to behavioral consistency. The methodological principles necessary for studying personality coherence dynamics are outlined in detail. This paper also addresses: (a) research methods for relating personality coherence/incoherence to behavioral consistency/inconsistency, and (b) situational contexts that are important to these personality dynamics. In addition, personality coherence dynamics in relation to the self and character and the impact of the C‐SAP assumption that behaviors are more stable than traits/types on the relation between personality coherence and behavioral consistency are discussed.
Pharmacokinetics of glaucine after intravenous and oral administrations and detection of systemic aporphine alkaloids after ingestion of tulip poplar shavings in horses
Authors: Haughan Joanne E. , Missanelli Jaclyn R. , You Youwen , Stefanovski Darko , Soma Lawrence R. , Robinson Mary A.
Published: April 2022

Glaucine, an aporphine alkaloid with anti‐tussive, anti‐inflammatory, and anti‐nociceptive properties, has been identified in post‐race samples from racehorses. To investigate pharmacokinetics of glaucine in horses, a three‐way crossover study of intravenous and oral glaucine (0.1 mg/kg) and orally administered tulip poplar shavings (50 g shavings = 0.001 mg/kg glaucine) was performed in six horses. A two‐compartment model best described IV administration with alpha () and beta () half‐life lives of 0.3 (0.1–0.7) and 3.1 (2.4–7.8) h, respectively. The area under the curve (iv) was 45.4 (34.7–52.3) h*ng/ml, and the volume of distribution of the central (Vdc) and peripheral (Vdp) compartments was 2.7 (1.3–4.6) and 4.9 (4.3–8.2) L/kg, respectively. A one compartment model best described the oral administration of glaucine with absorption () and elimination () half‐lives of 0.09 (0.05–0.15) and 0.7 (0.6–0.8) h, respectively. The area under the curve (PO) was 15.1 (8.0–19.5) h·ng/ml. Bioavailability following oral administration was 17%–48%. Following ingestion of shavings, glaucine and liriodenine were detectable in plasma for up to 16 and 48 h, respectively. Glaucine was quantifiable briefly in the urine from two horses. Liriodenine was quantifiable in urine for 12–20 h in four horses and for 48 h in two horses. The presence of liriodenine indicates ingestion of tulip poplar tree parts, however, does not rule out co‐administration of purified glaucine in horses.
Comparing surgical interventions for interstitial cystitis: A systematic review
Authors: Abelleyra Lastoria Diego Agustín , Raison Nicholas , Aydin Abdullatif , Khan Shamim , Dasgupta Prokar , Ahmed Kamran
Published: April 2022

The purpose of this review was to summarize and compare the efficacy among surgical interventions in terms of symptomatic relief in patients with interstitial cystitis/bladder pain syndrome (IC/BPS). The review protocol was published on PROSPERO. The Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) 2020 checklist was followed. Following database search, a narrative synthesis was performed. Data pertaining symptom scores, pain levels, and voiding frequency following surgery were summarized by calculating percentage change in these parameters. Multiple surgical treatments were identified. These included injections of hyaluronic acid (HA), botulinum toxin A (Botox A), triamcinolone, resiniferatoxin (RTX), platelet‐rich plasma, and 50% dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) solution, neuromodulation, hydrodistension (HD), resection/fulguration of Hunner lesions, resection of ilioinguinal and iliohypogastric nerves, reconstructive surgery, and cystectomy. This review found no evidence suggesting that HD and RTX injections can ameliorate IC/BPS symptoms. Current evidence suggests that sacral neuromodulation, cystectomy, and transurethral resection/fulguration of Hunner lesions could lead to symptomatic relief in IC/BPS. Further research into the efficacy of Botox A, triamcinolone, 50% DMSO solution, and HA instillations is required. However, the best treatment options cannot be reliably stated due to the low level of evidence of the studies identified. Further research should report outcomes for Hunner‐type IC and BPS separately given their differing histopathological characteristics. Performing high‐quality randomized controlled trials could be hindered by the low prevalence of the condition and a small proportion of patients progressing to surgery.
Measuring the shock stage of Itokawa and asteroid regolith grains by electron backscattered diffraction, optical petrography, and synchrotron X‐ray diffraction
Authors: Zolensky Michael , Martinez James , Sitzman Scott , Mikouchi Takashi , Hagiya Kenji , Ohsumi Kazumasa , Komatsu Mutsumi , Nakamura Tomoki , Takenouchi Atsushi , Ono Haruka , Hasegawa Hikari , Higashi Kotaro , Terada Yasuko , Yagi Naoto , Takata Masaki , Ozawa Hikaru , Taki Yuta , Yamatsuta Yuta , Hirata Arashi , Kurokawa Ayaka , Yamaguchi Shoki
Published: April 2022

Our goal was to devise a bridge between shock determinations of asteroid regolith grains by standard light optical petrography, synchrotron X‐ray diffraction (SXRD), and electron backscattered diffraction (EBSD). We determined the optimal conditions under which to measure the shock stage of olivine crystals in astromaterial grains by EBSD. We applied this EBSD procedure to the shock stage determination of four regolith grains from asteroid Itokawa, returned to earth by the Hayabusa spacecraft. Interpretation of these data required a parallel examination of three ordinary chondrite standards that exhibited shock histories ranging from stage 2 to stage 4, using all three techniques. Standard light optical petrography indicated shock stage of S2/3 for the 24 Itokawa grains analyzed. SXRD results for seven Itokawa grains indicate a shock stage of S2. EBSD maps of four Itokawa grains indicate shock stage S3. Thus, the different techniques indicate slightly different shock stages, probably due to small sampling populations for EBSD and SXRD. We therefore recommend that significantly more than seven regolith grains should be separately analyzed by any shock determination technique, probably between 10 and 20. In any case, Itokawa regolith grains have been shocked to stage S2/3, or approximately 5–10 GPa. Finally, we investigated the crystallinity of one Itokawa olivine by SXRD, determining that the 5–10 GPa shock it had experienced did not appreciably alter the size of the unit cell, contrary to some previous suggestions.
Genomic associations with poxvirus across divergent island populations in Berthelot's pipit
Authors: Sheppard Eleanor C. , Martin Claudia A. , Armstrong Claire , González‐Quevedo Catalina , Illera Juan Carlos , Suh Alexander , Spurgin Lewis G. , Richardson David S.
Published: April 2022

Understanding the mechanisms and genes that enable animal populations to adapt to pathogens is important from an evolutionary, health and conservation perspective. Berthelot's pipit (Anthus berthelotii) experiences extensive and consistent spatial heterogeneity in avian pox infection pressure across its range of island populations, thus providing an excellent system with which to examine how pathogen‐mediated selection drives spatial variation in immunogenetic diversity. Here, we test for evidence of genetic variation associated with avian pox at both an individual and population‐level. At the individual level, we find no evidence that variation in MHC class I and TLR4 (both known to be important in recognising viral infection) was associated with pox infection within two separate populations. However, using genotype‐environment association (Bayenv) in conjunction with genome‐wide (ddRAD‐seq) data, we detected strong associations between population‐level avian pox prevalence and allele frequencies of single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) at a number of sites across the genome. These sites were located within genes involved in cellular stress signalling and immune responses, many of which have previously been associated with responses to viral infection in humans and other animals. Consequently, our analyses indicate that pathogen‐mediated selection may play a role in shaping genomic variation among relatively recently colonised island bird populations and highlight the utility of genotype‐environment associations for identifying candidate genes potentially involved in host‐pathogen interactions.