bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GLP‐1 agonists for people living with HIV and obesity, is there a potential?
Authors: Zino L. , Tack C. J. , Richel O. , Burger D. M.
Published: June 2023

Background and objectives

Obesity trends and metabolic dysregulation are rising in people living with HIV using antiretrovirals (ARVs). Underlying causes and preventive strategies are being investigated. Two glucagon like‐peptide 1 (GLP‐1) agonists, liraglutide and semaglutide, were formerly approved as glucose‐lowering drugs and have been recently approved for long‐term weight loss in people with obesity. Due to the lack of therapeutic guidelines or clinical trials in people with HIV, we discuss the potential benefits, safety aspects and pharmacological considerations of prescribing liraglutide and semaglutide in people with HIV.

Results

Clinical experience is limited to two clinical cases of diabetic people with HIV using liraglutide after which a successful weight loss and glycaemic control were observed. None of the adverse events associated with liraglutide and semaglutide usage indicate an additional risk for people with HIV. Extra caution showed be warranted when initiating GLP‐1 agonist therapy in people with HIV taking protease inhibitors who have pre‐existing risk factors for heart rate variability to reduce the incidence of RP interval prolongation. GLP‐1 agonists are metabolized by endopeptidases, and thus do not generate major drug–drug interactions with most drugs, including ARVs. GLP‐s agonists are known to inhibit gastric acid secretion, which warrants caution and close monitoring when combined with atazanavir and oral rilpivirine, two ARVs that require low gastric pH for an optimal absorption.

Conclusion

Theoretical considerations and a few available clinical observations support semaglutide and liraglutide prescription in people with HIV, with, thus far, no indications of concern regarding efficacy, safety or pharmacological interactions with ARVs.
The effects of trade liberalization on tax avoidance
Authors: Pan Rui , Zeng Dao‐Zhi
Published: June 2023

Does trade liberalization aggravate tax avoidance? We build a three‐country model of tax competition consisting of two nonhaven countries and one tax haven in which goods are traded between the nonhavens and firms may shift profits to the tax haven. When the nonhavens cooperate, the reduction in trade costs does not change the degree of tax avoidance. In contrast, when the nonhavens do not cooperate, the equilibrium tax rates become higher, resulting in more tax avoidance. Furthermore, trade liberalization strengthens the tax competition between nonhavens, which further increases the tax‐avoidance activities.
Prognostic impact of the radiological infiltrative feature of primary renal tumor in metastatic renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Yamaguchi Yoshitomo , Tanaka Hajime , Kimura Koichiro , Fukuda Shohei , Fukushima Hiroshi , Waseda Yuma , Yoshida Soichiro , Yokoyama Minato , Hirakawa Akihiro , Tateishi Ukihide , Campbell Steven C. , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Recent studies suggest that the radiological infiltrative feature (r‐IF) of renal tumors is strongly correlated with poor oncologic outcomes in locally advanced renal cell carcinoma (RCC). This study investigated the prognostic impact of r‐IF of primary renal tumors in metastatic RCC (mRCC) in comparison with International Metastatic RCC Database Consortium (IMDC) risk model.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 91 patients with previously untreated mRCC. Dynamic computed tomography of the primary renal tumor was reviewed to assess r‐IF, defined as a focally/extensively ill‐defined tumor interface with normal renal parenchyma.

Results

The median age was 67 years, and 69 patients (76%) were men. Prior nephrectomy was performed in 47 patients (52%). The median size of the primary renal tumor was 6.7 cm, and 50 patients (55%) presented with cT3–4 stage. Overall, 25 (28%)/52 (57%)/14 (15%) patients were classified into IMDC favorable/intermediate/poor‐risk groups, respectively. An image review identified r‐IFs in the primary renal tumor in 40 patients (44%). The incidences of r‐IFs were 28%/46%/64% in IMDC favorable/intermediate/poor‐risk groups, respectively. During a median follow‐up of 2.6 years, 31 patients (34%) died of RCC. On multivariable analysis, r‐IF and IMDC intermediate‐poor risks were independently associated with poor cancer‐specific survival (CSS). Two‐year CSS were 64%/87% in patients with/without r‐IF, respectively. C‐index was improved from 0.73 to 0.81 by adding r‐IF to the IMDC risk factors.

Conclusions

R‐IF of the primary renal tumor was an independent risk factor for poor CSS in patients with mRCC, which may improve the prognostic accuracy when combined with the IMDC risk model.
βhCG mediates immune suppression through upregulation of CD11b+Gr1+ myeloid derived suppressor cells, CD206+M2 macrophages, and CD4+FOXP3+ regulatory T‐cells in BRCA1 deficient breast cancers
Authors: Varghese Geetu Rose , Patra Dipyaman , Jaikumar Vishnu Sunil , Rajan Arathi , Latha Neetha R. , Srinivas Priya
Published: June 2023

BRCA1 mutation is reported in about 70% of all triple negative breast cancers (TNBC), while BRCA1 defect due to promoter hypermethylation is seen in about 30%–60% of sporadic breast cancers. Although PARP inhibitors and platinum‐based chemotherapy are used to treat these cancers, more efficient therapeutic approaches are required to overcome the resistance to treatment. Our previous findings have reported elevated βhCG expression but not αhCG in BRCA1 deficient breast cancers. As βhCG causes immune suppression in pregnancy, this study explored the immunomodulatory effect of βhCG in BRCA1mutated/deficient TNBC. We observed that Th1, Th2, and Th17 cytokines are upregulated in the presence of βhCG in BRCA1 defective cancers. In NOD‐SCID and syngeneic mouse models, βhCG increases the frequency of Myeloid‐derived suppressor cells in tumour tissues and contributes to macrophage reprogramming from antitumor M1 to pro‐tumour M2 phenotype. βhCG reduces the CD4+T‐cell infiltration while increasing the density of CD4+CD25+FOXP3+regulatory T‐cell in BRCA1 deficient tumour tissues. In contrast, xenograft tumours with βhCG knocked down TNBC cells did not show these immune suppressive effects. We have also shown that βhCG upregulates pro‐tumorigenic markers arginase1(Arg1), inducible nitric oxide synthase, PD‐L1/PD‐1, and NFκB in BRCA1 defective tumours. Thus, for the first time, this study proves that βhCG suppresses the host antitumor immune response and contributes to tumour progression in BRCA1 deficient tumours. This study will help develop new immunotherapeutic approaches for treating BRCA1 defective TNBC by regulating βhCG.
Enhanced electrostrains in PMN–xPZN solid solutions driven by a rather small electric field
Authors: Huang Yunyao , Shi Wenjing , Jing Ruiyi , Tran Nguyen‐Minh‐An , Zhang Haibo , Shur Vladimir , Wei Xiaoyong , Jin Li
Published: June 2023

Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3 (PMN) relaxors have gained a lot of interest due to their unusual dielectric relaxation and high electrostrictive electrostrain. However, the Tm (temperature associated with maximum permittivity) of PMN is lower than room temperature, which limits their future development of electrostrain and practical applications. In this study, we increased the Tm by incorporating a relaxor ferroelectric (FE) end member Pb(Zn1/3Nb2/3)O3 (PZN) rather than a conventional high Curie temperature FE end member to create (1−x)PMN–xPZN solid solutions with x = 0.2–0.5. Their dielectric, FE, and electrostrain properties were systematically investigated. In x = 0.4 composition, we get a maximum electrostrain of 0.134% and an equivalent piezoelectric coefficient of 936 pm/V under a rather small driving field of 5 kV/cm. Furthermore, the electrostrain of the x = 0.5 is greater than 0.1% between 20 and 80°C, indicating its possible applicability in precision displacement actuators. Our findings not only clarify the electrostrain and electrostrictive properties of (1 − x)PMN–xPZN system but also show an innovative way to improve electrostrain properties by constructing relaxor–relaxor type solid solutions that can be applied to other FE systems.
How a Conversation Between EU Studies and Critical‐Constructivist IR Norm Research Illuminates a Union in Crisis: A Research Note
Authors: Speyer Johanna , Stockmann Nils
Published: June 2023

Historically, crises have been lauded for fostering European Union (EU) integration. Conversely, it has recently been predicted that the current ‘polycrisis’ will precipitate the EU's demise. However, this dichotomous perspective on crises is oversimplified. In this research note, we argue that a critical‐constructivist approach to norm contestation is uniquely placed to illuminate the shades of grey populating the continuum between these two extremes. As contestation effects may occur on both normative and institutional levels, a norm contestation approach has the potential to open the black box of crises by investigating the prerequisites, actors and processes of crisis and reminding us that these stages are linked in a circular way. Therefore, we argue that a conversation between EU studies and critical‐constructivist norm contestation research is crucial to advancing our understanding of the myriad effects crises have on the EU beyond the dichotomous distinction between integration and demise.
Resistance monitoring in field populations of Chilo suppressalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) in Hubei Province to four insecticides in 2019–2022
Authors: Su Chunyan , Li Chengyue , Cai Tingwei , Xie Yuanli , He Shun , Ma Kangsheng , Wan Hu , Zhou Huazhong , Li Jianhong
Published: June 2023

Chilo suppressalis is a highly destructive insect pest of rice crops. Chemical insecticides have been used as an effective method for controlling this pest. In this study, we evaluated the susceptibility of seven field populations of C. suppressalis from three regions in Hubei Province, China, to four different insecticides over a period of 4 years (2019–2022). Our results showed that the populations of C. suppressalis in these areas have evolved low to high levels of resistance to abamectin (Resistant Ratio, RR = 8.5–413.4). Furthermore, the field populations were susceptible to high levels of resistance to chlorantraniliprole (RR = 2.0–401.6) and showed moderate levels of resistance to triazophos (RR = 56.9–78.7) and chlorpyrifos (RR = 10.6–54.5). Correlation analysis indicated significant positive correlations between the susceptibility of abamectin and chlorantraniliprole and chlorpyrifos, as well as chlorpyrifos and chlorantraniliprole, and triazophos. This study provides valuable information on the current resistance status of field populations of C. suppressalis, which can aid in the judicious use of these insecticides and serve as an important reference for effective resistance management strategies.
Social innovations and drivers in flood early warning systems: A community‐based transboundary perspective from Elegu flood plain in Northern Uganda
Authors: Canwat Vincent
Published: June 2023

Early warning systems play significant roles in disaster risk reduction and management. However, a global picture of how they function on the ground, especially in developing countries, is lacking. This study assessed social innovations and drivers in the community‐based transboundary flood early warning systems in the Ugandan context. The study found that the community‐based transboundary flood early warning system generated three social innovations: new inter‐community relations, new community‐local resource relations, and new housing and bedding structures. New inter‐community relations were driven by the transboundary nature of the flood and kinship. New community‐local resource relations were driven by the lack of government support for the early warning system. New housing and bedding structures were driven by the uncertainty about the flood at night. The study confirms the importance of social market failure in driving social innovations and the role of community‐based flood early warning systems in promoting the utilisation of local resources. The effectiveness of transboundary early warning systems in extending lead time and reducing losses was also confirmed. However, the early warning system was found to be effective only during day time. The study, therefore, recommends government intervention in bridging the early warning system gap by installing telemetry.
Nerve sheath tumor in the forearm of a common marmoset (Callithrix jacchus)
Authors: Kezar Sarah , Fowlkes Natalie W. , Hensel Martha E.
Published: June 2023

Tumors of the skin and subcutaneous tissues are uncommon in marmosets. In this report, we describe the gross, histopathology, and immunohistochemical findings of a nerve sheath tumor that arose in the left forearm of an adult female marmoset (Callthrix jacchus).
European Neuroendocrine Tumor Society 2023 guidance paper for functioning pancreatic neuroendocrine tumour syndromes
Authors: Hofland Johannes , Falconi Massimo , Christ Emanuel , Castaño Justo P. , Faggiano Antongiulio , Lamarca Angela , Perren Aurel , Petrucci Simona , Prasad Vikas , Ruszniewski Philippe , Thirlwell Christina , Vullierme Marie‐Pierre , Welin Staffan , Bartsch Detlef K.
Published: June 2023

This ENETS guidance paper aims to provide practical advice to clinicians for the diagnosis, treatment and follow‐up of functioning syndromes in pancreatic neuroendocrine tumours (NET). A NET‐associated functioning syndrome is defined by the presence of a clinical syndrome combined with biochemical evidence of inappropriately elevated hormonal levels. Different hormonal syndromes can be encountered in pancreatic NET patients, including insulinoma, gastrinoma as well as the rare glucagonoma, VIPoma, ACTHoma, PTHrPoma, carcinoid syndrome, calcitoninoma, GHRHoma and somatostatinoma. The recommendations provided in this paper focus on the biochemical, genetic and imaging work‐up as well as therapeutic management of the individual hormonal syndromes in well‐differentiated, grade 1‐3, functioning NET with the primary tumour originating in the pancreas, and for specific subtypes also in the duodenum.
Vacuum and electromagnetic field in synergy for skin rejuvenation: A retrospective study on 217 patients
Authors: Laura Simona , Veronese Sheila , Alberti Giovanni , Bacci Pier Antonio , Beatini Annalisa , Fulgione Elisabetta , Urbani Claudio , Sbarbati Andrea
Published: June 2023

Background

There are many aesthetic treatments aimed at combating aging. In the most common and frequently used ones there are often side effects, albeit minor ones. However, sometimes it is necessary to use medications before or after treatments.

Objectives

To evaluate the anti‐aging efficacy and application safety of a therapy based on the combination of vacuum and electromagnetic fields (EMFs).

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted to evaluate the aesthetic effects of the treatment on 217 subjects. Before treatment (T0) and after the last session (T1), skin hydration levels, the amount of sebum present and the pH were measured. The presence of discomfort during the sessions and side effects at T1 was verified. At T1, the levels of satisfaction of the patients and of the doctors who performed the treatment were assessed. At 3 and 6 months of follow‐up the aesthetic results were re‐evaluated.

Results

For all treated subjects, an evident qualitative improvement was observed in the quality of the skin of the neck and face, with an increase in tone and a reduction in wrinkles. The instrumental tests highlighted a normalization of skin hydration, pH, and sebum values. High levels of satisfaction at T0 and good stability of results up to 6 months of follow‐up were reported. No discomfort was referred during the treatment sessions, nor any side effects after the entire treatment.

Conclusions

The treatment that exploits the synergy between vacuum and EMFs is very promising given the effectiveness and safety of the technique.
Platelet‐rich plasma injections for the treatment of temporomandibular joint disorders: A systematic review
Authors: Haddad Camille , Zoghbi Amine , El Skaff Emilsa , Touma Joseph
Published: June 2023

Objective

This systematic review aimed to investigate and examine whether intra‐articular injections of platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) after arthrocentesis are beneficial for the treatment of temporomandibular disorders, when compared to other treatments, such as injections of hyaluronic acid (HA) or saline after arthrocentesis.

Methods

An electronic search on PubMed was performed using combinations of the terms ‘temporomandibular’ and ‘platelet rich plasma’, to identify studies reported in English and published up until 2017. The initial screening identified 222 records, of which only seven fulfilled the inclusion criteria and were included in this review. Of these studies, three compared injection of PRP after arthrocentesis with the injection of HA after arthrocentesis, while two compared injection of PRP after arthrocentesis with Ringer's lactate after arthrocentesis and one compared injection of PRP after arthrocentesis to sodium chloride.

Results

Five of the studies found that PRP injections have led to significant improvements in mandibular range of motion and pain intensity up to 12 months after treatment, while the remaining two studies found similar results for the different treatments.

Conclusion

However, a standardized protocol for PRP preparation and application needs to be established.
Business dynamism, educational attainment, and residential location choice
Authors: Wertz Sydney Schreiner
Published: June 2023

Using individual‐level, geocode data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth's 1997 cohort, I ask whether business dynamism in local labor markets, defined as the rates of job creation and establishment entry, affects the location decisions of labor force participants, and I examine how effects differ for highly and less educated labor force participants. I find that a one standard deviation increase in business dynamism is associated with a 2%–4% increase in the probability a college graduate chooses a metropolitan statistical area and an 8%–15% decrease for high school graduates with no college experience. These results support recent findings documenting a decrease in responsiveness to local labor market conditions and suggest that incentivizing job creation in local labor markets may not be enough to offset the trend of declining internal migration in the United States.
Policy on sexual abuse: A survey study amongst managers of care facilities for individuals with intellectual disability in the Netherlands
Authors: Smit Manon J. , Scheffers Mia , Emck Claudia , van Busschbach Jooske T. , Engelsman Lara , Beek Peter J.
Published: June 2023

Individuals with intellectual disability living in a care facility are at high risk of sexual abuse. Formal policies on sexual abuse within these care facilities and their effective implementation are a prerequisite to reducing the risk of sexual abuse in this group. The present study aimed to determine the state of affairs in this regard in the Netherlands and identify areas of improvement regarding both policy formulation and implementation. An online survey was sent to the management boards of 129 Dutch care facilities for individuals with intellectual disability. Sixty‐nine managers completed the survey on behalf of their care facility. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the state of affairs regarding policies on sexual abuse. Areas of improvement reported by the managers were examined qualitatively by thematic analysis. Most care facilities complied with the national legal requirements on sexual abuse, which include the availability of a protocol on sexual abuse and mandatory reporting. It varied across the care facilities to what extent the protocols on sexual abuse are brought to the staff's attention and used in practice. About half of them provided no staff training on the protocol on sexual abuse, while nearly one‐third of the care facilities provided no organizational protective factors on sexual abuse, such as a special‐task official on sexual abuse, sexuality or sexual abuse department, or cooperation with the vice squad. Most areas of improvement reported by the managers pertained to the need for staff training and the improvement of practical use of policies and protocols on sexual abuse. In conclusion, the availability of policies and protocols on sexual abuse in care facilities for individuals with intellectual disability does not guarantee a caring culture in which these policies and protocols are implemented effectively, and in which sexual abuse is prevented and detected in a timely way.
Anti‐inflammatory and pro‐regenerative effects of a monoterpene glycoside on experimental periodontitis in a rat model of diabetes
Authors: Kuzu Turan Emre , Öztürk Kübra , Gürgan Cem A. , Yay Arzu , Göktepe Özge , Kantarcı Alpdoğan
Published: June 2023

Objective

Paeoniflorin (Pae) is a monoterpene glycoside with immune‐regulatory effects. Several studies have already demonstrated the impact of Pae on periodontitis, but its effect on diabetic periodontitis is unclear. In this study, our aim was to test the hypothesis that Pae had a strong anti‐inflammatory effect that prevented bone loss in diabetic periodontitis.

Methods

Thirty male Wistar albino rats were randomly divided into control (healthy, n = 10), periodontitis (PD) + diabetes (DM; n = 10), and PD + DM + Pae (n = 10) groups. Ligature‐induced periodontitis was created by placing 4–0 silk ligatures around the lower first molars on both sides of the mandibulae. Experimental DM was created via an injection of 50 mg/kg and streptozotocin (STZ). Hyperglycemia was confirmed by the blood glucose levels of rats (>300 mg/dL). The bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular number, trabecular thickness, and bone loss were measured by micro‐CT. The expression levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α were measured in tissue homogenates by ELISA.

Results

The PD + DM + Pae group had significantly less alveolar crest resorption when compared to the PD + DM group. There was also a significant difference between the PD + DM + Pae group compared to PD + DM group in trabecular thickness, BMD, and the number of trabeculae. Pae application led to a statistically significant decrease in IL‐1β, IL‐6, and TNF‐α levels in diabetic periodontitis.

Conclusion

Systemic application of Pae suppressed inflammation caused by PD and DM, leading to reduced bone loss and enhanced bone quality.
Generalised neuromuscular blockade after intraurethral administration of atracurium besilate in a male cat with urethral obstruction
Authors: Casoria V. , Felisberto R. , Auckburally A. , Flaherty D.
Published: June 2023

A 4‐year‐old, entire, male, domestic long‐haired cat was presented with an acute history of stranguria and dysuria and diagnosed with urolithiasis causing urethral obstruction. The patient was induced to general anaesthesia and several unsuccessful attempts to flush the uroliths retrogradely towards the bladder were made. An intraurethral administration of the neuromuscular blocking agent atracurium was performed as it has been reported to facilitate urethral catheterisation without any side effects. Respiratory arrest developed after 15 minutes from atracurium administration, which was promptly recognized and treated with mechanical ventilation. The absence of muscle contraction in response to a nerve stimulation confirmed a generalised muscle blockade. Approximately 35 minutes after, a muscle response to nerve stimulation appeared. Neostigmine combined with glycopyrrolate was administered resulting in complete recovery from neuromuscular blockade. In conclusion, the use of intraurethral atracurium can result in systemic absorption of the drug with subsequent generalised neuromuscular blockade.
The assessment of haematologic and serum chemistry parameters in canine pyometra: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Demeli A. , Meyer J. C.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Pyometra is common in non‐spayed adult female dogs requiring early diagnosis and treatment to increase the survival rate. The diagnosis of pyometra is mainly based on clinical examination and anamnesis. Radiography, ultrasonography and laboratory analyses are recommended to support a diagnosis. The aim of this study was to assess blood parameters associated with pyometra by performing a systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Materials and Methods

The review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A search of three databases (PubMed, Google Scholar and CAB abstracts) was performed in July 2022. Studies providing information about laboratory parameters for both the pyometra group and healthy control group dogs were eligible for inclusion. Data extraction included the first author’s name, publication year, country, number of participants in both groups, mean values of selected studies, standard deviation values, and blood parameters. The risk of bias for each study was evaluated, and a random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed.

Results

We included 44 studies which investigated 12 blood parameters. High heterogeneity was detected in all parameters in these meta‐analyses. The following blood parameters were increased in dogs with pyometra: white blood cell (mean=27.75×109 L−1, mean difference (MD)=17.16, 95% confidence interval (CI) 14.85 to 19.47), monocytes (mean=2.06×1012/L, MD=1.37, 95% CI 0.99 to 1.74), blood urea nitrogen (mean=41.42 mg/dL MD=18.06, 95% CI 12.26 to 23.85), alkaline phosphatase (mean=212.78 IU/L, MD=137.51, 95% CI 81.81 to 88.62), and aspartate aminotransferase (mean=48.31 IU/L, MD=16.96, 95% CI 10.61 to 23.30). The following parameters were reduced: red blood cell (mean=5.42 1012/L, MD=−1.37, 95% CI −1.68 to −1.05), haemoglobin (mean=121.20 g/L, MD=−30.57, 95% CI −39.70 to 21.45), albumin (mean=23.71 g/L, MD = −8.16, 95% CI −11.46 to −4.86). Lymphocyte, creatinine, urea, and alanine transaminase parameters were increased in some studies and decreased in others.

Clinical Significance

In canine pyometra, some blood parameters are consistently increased, some consistently decreased, and some increased or decreased depending on the study.
Redemption, transcendence, and spirituality, or ease, hope, and comfort? On Llanera's strong redescription of Rorty
Authors: Huckerby Elin Danielsen
Published: June 2023

In Richard Rorty: Outgrowing Modern Nihilism, Tracy Llanera places Richard Rorty in conversation with philosophers confronting nihilism as a “malaise of modernity.” She shows how Rortyan thought offers a horizontal and relational approach to “redemption,” as opposed to religious or philosophical paths to be saved by higher beings or ideas. This essay focuses on Llanera's redescription of Rorty and whether amplifying Rorty's use of “redemption” and “transcendence” is wise. Leaving behind this laden vocabulary might better serve Llanera's purpose of illuminating a path to outgrow, rather than overcome, the anxiety of nihilism. After exploring Llanera's redescription of Rorty, the essay suggests that a different vocabulary—composed of words such as ease, hope, and comfort, and potentially as capable of supporting Llanera's overarching aim—is available in Rorty's writings. Turning to this other vocabulary might strengthen Llanera's significant contribution to the nihilism debate and to Rortyan and pragmatist philosophy more generally.
Filtration of environmentally sourced aquatic media impacts laboratory‐colonised Aedes albopictus early development and adult bacteriome composition
Authors: Griffin Chasen D. , Weber Danya E. , Seabourn Priscilla , Waianuhea Lorraine K. , Medeiros Matthew C. I.
Published: June 2023

Microorganisms form close associations with metazoan hosts forming symbiotic communities, known as microbiomes, that modulate host physiological processes. Mosquitoes are of special interest in exploring microbe‐modulated host processes due to their oversized impact on human health. However, most mosquito work is done under controlled laboratory conditions where natural microbiomes are not present and inferences from these studies may not extend to natural populations. Here we attempt to assemble a wild‐resembling bacteriome under laboratory conditions in an established laboratory colony of Aedes albopictus using aquatic media from environmentally‐exposed and differentially filtered larval habitats. While we did not successfully replicate a wild bacteriome using these filtrations, we show that these manipulations alter the bacteriomes of mosquitoes, generating a unique composition not seen in wild populations collected from and near our source water or in our laboratory colony. We also demonstrate that our filtration regimens impact larval development times, as well as impact adult survival on different carbohydrate diets.
Forging a symbiosis: transition metal delivery in symbiotic nitrogen fixation
Authors: González‐Guerrero Manuel , Navarro‐Gómez Cristina , Rosa‐Núñez Elena , Echávarri‐Erasun Carlos , Imperial Juan , Escudero Viviana
Published: June 2023

Symbiotic nitrogen fixation carried out by the interaction between legumes and rhizobia is the main source of nitrogen in natural ecosystems and in sustainable agriculture. For the symbiosis to be viable, nutrient exchange between the partners is essential. Transition metals are among the nutrients delivered to the nitrogen‐fixing bacteria within the legume root nodule cells. These elements are used as cofactors for many of the enzymes controlling nodule development and function, including nitrogenase, the only known enzyme able to convert N2 into NH3. In this review, we discuss the current knowledge on how iron, zinc, copper, and molybdenum reach the nodules, how they are delivered to nodule cells, and how they are transferred to nitrogen‐fixing bacteria within.
Relative peripheral hyperopia leads to greater short‐term axial length growth in White children with myopia
Authors: Leighton Rebecca E. , Breslin Karen M. , Richardson Patrick , Doyle Lesley , McCullough Sara J. , Saunders Kathryn J.
Published: June 2023

Purpose

Controversy exists regarding the influence of peripheral visual experience on the onset and progression of childhood myopia. This longitudinal, observational study evaluated the relationship between relative peripheral refraction (RPR) and changes in refractive error and axial length (AL) over 12 months in White children aged 6–7 and 12–13 years with a range of baseline refractive errors.

Methods

Cycloplegic baseline autorefraction at horizontal retinal eccentricities of 0° and ±30° were recorded with the Shin‐Nippon NVision‐K 5001 while AL was measured using the Zeiss IOLMaster 700. Measurements were repeated after 12 months on a subgroup. Refractive data were transposed into power vectors as mean spherical equivalent (M), J0 and J45. RPR was calculated by subtracting central from peripheral measurements. Participants were defined as myopic (M ≤ −0.50 D), premyopic (−0.50 D < M ≤ +0.75 D), emmetropic (+0.75 D < M < +2.00 D) or hyperopic (M ≥ +2.00 D).

Results

Data were collected from 222 and 245 participants aged 6–7 and 12–13 years, respectively. Myopic eyes demonstrated, on average, more hyperopic RPR. Emmetropes and premyopes displayed emmetropic RPR, and hyperopes showed a myopic RPR. Fifty‐six 6‐ to 7‐year‐olds and seventy 12‐ to 13‐year‐olds contributed 12‐month repeated measures. Longitudinal data demonstrated a significant relationship between a more hyperopic RPR in the nasal retina and greater short‐term axial elongation in teens with myopia at baseline (β = 0.69; p = 0.04). Each dioptre of relative peripheral hyperopia in the nasal retina was associated with an additional 0.10 mm (95% CI: 0.02–0.18 mm) annual increase in AL.

Conclusions

Hyperopic RPR in the nasal retina of myopic children is indicative of increased risk for rapid axial elongation and may be a useful metric to support decision‐making in myopia management.
Clinicopathological and molecular characteristics of gastric papillary adenocarcinoma
Authors: Arai Tomio , Komatsu Akiko , Kanazawa Nobuo , Nonaka Keisuke , Ishiwata Toshiyuki
Published: June 2023

Papillary adenocarcinoma is defined as carcinoma with a well‐defined papillary or villous structure. Despite sharing clinicopathological and morphological features with tubular adenocarcinomas, papillary adenocarcinomas frequently show microsatellite instability. The present study aimed to clarify the clinicopathological features, molecular classification, and programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) expression characteristics of papillary adenocarcinoma, especially tumors with microsatellite instability. We examined the microsatellite status and expression of mucin core proteins and PD‐L1 as well as the clinicopathological features in 40 gastric papillary adenocarcinomas. Surrogate immunohistochemical analysis of p53 and mismatch repair proteins along with Epstein‐Barr virus‐encoded RNA in situ hybridization were performed for molecular classification. Female predominance and frequent microsatellite instability were observed in papillary adenocarcinoma in comparison with tubular adenocarcinoma. The presence of microsatellite instability in papillary adenocarcinoma was significantly correlated with older age, tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes, and Crohn's‐like lymphoid reactions. Surrogate examination demonstrated that the genomically stable type (17 cases, 42.5%) was the most common, followed by the microsatellite‐unstable type (14 cases, 35%). Among the seven cases showing PD‐L1‐positive expression in tumor cells, four involved carcinomas with microsatellite instability. These results reveal the clinicopathological and molecular characteristics of gastric papillary adenocarcinoma.
Depression and thoughts of self‐harm and suicide among people living with dementia: results of a cross‐sectional survey
Authors: Carey Mariko , Mansfield Elise , Cameron Emilie , Boyes Allison , Browne William , Dizon Jason , Sanson‐Fisher Rob
Published: June 2023

Background

Depression is common among people with dementia. Despite most people with dementia living in the community, there have been few investigations of self‐reported depressive symptoms and suicidal ideation among community‐dwelling people with dementia in Australia. This study aimed to explore the proportion of people with mild, moderate and severe levels of depressive symptoms, and suicidal ideation among a sample of people living with dementia in Australia. Correlates of reporting depressive symptoms were also explored.

Methods

Adults diagnosed with dementia by a medical professional who were English speaking and community‐dwelling were asked to complete a paper and pencil survey. Those who were unable to provide independent consent were excluded. Depression was assessed using the Geriatric Depression Scale −15, and suicidal ideation was assessed using two study‐specific items. Multivariable analyses examined quality of life, unmet needs and sociodemographic factors associated with having a score of five or more on the Geriatric Depression Scale‐15.

Results

Ninety‐four people participated in the study. Thirty‐seven percent (n = 35) reported some level of depressive symptoms, with most of these (21%, n = 20) classified as having mild depressive symptoms. Five participants (5%) reported they had had thoughts of being better off dead or hurting themselves, while three (3%) reported having had a plan to end their life. For each additional unmet need, the odds of being depressed increased by 25%(P < 0.001). For each point increase in quality of life, the odds of being depressed decreased by 48% (P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The high proportion of people with dementia who report depressive symptoms suggests the need to routinely assess depressive symptoms among this group. There may also be benefits in assessing unmet needs and addressing these where possible as part of an approach to reducing depression among people living with dementia in the community.
Incentives and effort in the public and private sector
Authors: van Triest Sander
Published: June 2023

While public service motivation theory suggests that public sector employees have higher levels of intrinsic motivation, average pay levels in the public sector are not lower, so public sector employees also value financial incentives. We investigate the relationship of financial incentives with effort (measured with unpaid overtime) for public versus private sector employees using a UK sample. Bonuses are used much less in the public sector, but their relationship with effort is not different between sectors. Public sector employees exert more effort when base pay is higher and do so to a somewhat higher extent than private sector employees. However, public sector employees increase effort more when effort is an important promotion criterion and when perceived job security is higher. Thus, implicit incentives resulting from being in a secure job and developing in that job are more effective for public sector employees than for private sector employees.
The impacts of trade liberalization on the local labor market: Older women are especially vulnerable
Authors: Yu Chan
Published: June 2023

This article examines the disparate impacts of Chinese import growth on US workers according to gender and age. I show that Chinese import growth generates larger employment losses for less skilled women than men in manufacturing. The gendered effects vary by age and are most concentrated among middle‐aged workers. The motherhood career interruption may explain the gender‐age disparities. Trade shocks depress labor outcomes more for women with children than for their male counterparts. Moreover, I find that the gender‐age differential effect is alleviated when trade shocks hit industries with longer female job tenure.
Prevalence and risk factors of frailty among older family caregivers
Authors: Kiljunen Outi , Välimäki Tarja , Savela Roosa‐Maria , Koponen Sohvi , Nykänen Irma , Suominen Anna Liisa , Schwab Ursula
Published: June 2023

Aim

The aim of this study was to investigate the prevalence of frailty and identify the demographical and clinical factors associated with frailty among older family caregivers.

Method

The participants of this cross‐sectional study were older family caregivers (n = 125) living in Eastern Finland. Data on functional and cognitive status, depressive symptoms, nutritional status, medication, chronic diseases, stroke, and oral health were obtained. The Mini Nutritional Assessment (MNA) was used to evaluate nutritional status. Frailty status was evaluated using the abbreviated comprehensive geriatric assessment (aCGA) scale.

Results

Seventy‐three percent of caregivers were identified as frail. According to multivariable logistic regression, cataract, glaucoma, or macular degeneration and the MNA score were predictors of frailty. After adjusting for age, gender, and number of own teeth, the MNA score remained a significant predictor of frailty (adjusted OR = 1.22, 95% CI = 1.06, 1.41). As the MNA scores decreased (meaning poorer nutritional status), the risk of frailty increased.

Conclusions

The present study showed that frailty is prevalent among older family caregivers. Recognising older family caregivers with frailty or at risk of frailty is vital. It is essential to acknowledge vision problems' role in frailty and to monitor and support the nutritional status of family caregivers regularly to prevent frailty development.
Loneliness and the sexual behavior of sexual minority men in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Skakoon‐Sparling Shayna , Palma Paolo A. , Zahran Adhm , Hart Trevor A. , Moore David M. , Cox Joseph , Lachowsky Nathan J. , Dvorakova Milada , Daroya Emerich , Grace Daniel
Published: June 2023

In March 2020, in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic, Canadian provincial governments instituted a variety of public health measures that included social distancing and isolation, which may have had unintended consequeses. According to the Loneliness and Sexual Risk Model, gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBM) often cope with loneliness through risky sexual behaviors. Previous studies have demonstrated that COVID‐19 measures such as social distancing and isolation led to increases in loneliness; thus, these measures may also have led to elevated sexual risk‐taking among some GBM. Participants were recruited from an ongoing cohort study on GBM health and well‐being, and were included in the current analysis if they had completed relevant study questions (n = 1134). GBM who reported lower levels of social support pre‐COVID‐19, were younger, and lived alone each reported greater loneliness during the first year of COVID‐19. Although feelings of loneliness did not predict sexual risk‐taking within the first year of COVID‐19, loneliness did predict greater sexual risk‐taking 6 months later. Additionally, younger GBM and those living alone were more likely to engage in sexual risk‐taking at both COVID‐19 data collection points. These findings offer some support of the Loneliness and Sexual Risk Model; however, it is possible that the unique circumstances of the COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in a temporary suspension of this association, as many GBM took steps to protect themselves and partners in the context of COVID‐19.
Pulmonary oedema in the course of severe maternal outcome in South Africa: A cohort study combined with clinical audit
Authors: Heitkamp Anke , Sandberg Evelien , Moodley Ashley , Burke Jonathan , van Roosmalen Jos , Gebhardt Stefan , Vollmer Linda , de Vries Johanna I. , van den Akker Thomas , Theron Gerhard
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To describe the incidence and outcomes of pulmonary oedema in women with severe maternal outcome during childbirth and identify possible modifiable factors through audit.

Methods

All women with severe maternal outcome (maternal deaths or near misses) who were referred to Tygerberg referral hospital from health facilities in Metro East district, South Africa, during 2014–2015 were included. Women with severe maternal outcome and pulmonary oedema during pregnancy or childbirth were evaluated using three types of critical incident audit: criterion‐based case review by one consultant gynaecologist, monodisciplinary critical incident audit by a team of gynaecologists, multidisciplinary audit with expert review from anaesthesiologists and cardiologists.

Results

Of 32,161 pregnant women who gave birth in the study period, 399 (1.2%) women had severe maternal outcome and 72/399 (18.1%) had pulmonary oedema with a case fatality rate of 5.6% (4/72). Critical incident audit demonstrated that pre‐eclampsia/HELLP‐syndrome and chronic hypertension were the main conditions underlying pulmonary oedema (44/72, 61.1%). Administration of volumes of intravenous fluids in already sick women, undiagnosed underlying cardiac illness, administration of magnesium sulphate as part of pre‐eclampsia management and oxytocin for augmentation of labour were identified as possible contributors to the pathophysiology of pulmonary oedema. Women‐related factors (improved antenatal care attendance) and health care‐related factors (earlier diagnosis and management) would potentially have improved maternal outcome.

Conclusions

Although pulmonary oedema in pregnancy is rare, among women with severe maternal outcome a considerable proportion had pulmonary oedema (18.1%). Audit identified options for prevention of pulmonary oedema and improved outcome. These included early detection and management of preeclampsia with close monitoring of fluid intake and cardiac evaluation in case of suspected pulmonary oedema. Therefore, a multidisciplinary clinical approach is recommended.
MxMPK6‐2‐mediated phosphorylation enhances the response of apple rootstocks to Fe deficiency by activating PM H+‐ATPase MxHA2
Authors: Sun Qiran , Zhao Danrui , Gao Min , Wu Yue , Zhai Longmei , Sun Shan , Wu Ting , Zhang Xinzhong , Xu Xuefeng , Han Zhenhai , Wang Yi
Published: June 2023

Iron (Fe) deficiency significantly affects the growth and development, fruit yield and quality of apples. Apple roots respond to Fe deficiency stress by promoting H+ secretion, which acidifies the soil. In this study, the plasma membrane (PM) H+‐ATPase MxHA2 promoted H+ secretion and root acidification of apple rootstocks under Fe deficiency stress. H+‐ATPase MxHA2 is upregulated in Fe‐efficient apple rootstock of Malus xiaojinensis at the transcription level. Fe deficiency also induced kinase MxMPK6‐2, a positive regulator in Fe absorption that can interact with MxHA2. However, the mechanism involving these two factors under Fe deficiency stress is unclear. MxMPK6‐2 overexpression in apple roots positively regulated PM H+‐ATPase activity, thus enhancing root acidification under Fe deficiency stress. Moreover, co‐expression of MxMPK6‐2 and MxHA2 in apple rootstocks further enhanced PM H+‐ATPase activity under Fe deficiency. MxMPK6‐2 phosphorylated MxHA2 at the Ser909 site of C terminus, Thr320 and Thr412 sites of the Central loop region. Phosphorylation at the Ser909 and Thr320 promoted PM H+‐ATPase activity, while phosphorylation at Thr412 inhibited PM H+‐ATPase activity. MxMPK6‐2 also phosphorylated the Fe deficiency‐induced transcription factor MxbHLH104 at the Ser169 site, which then could bind to the promoter of MxHA2, thus enhancing MxHA2 upregulation. In conclusion, the MAP kinase MxMPK6‐2‐mediated phosphorylation directly and indirectly regulates PM H+‐ATPase MxHA2 activity at the protein post‐translation and transcription levels, thus synergistically enhancing root acidification under Fe deficiency stress.
OsMADS5 interacts with OsSPL14/17 to inhibit rice root elongation by restricting cell proliferation of root meristem under ammonium supply
Authors: Guo Xiaoli , Chen Yake , Hu Yibo , Feng Fan , Zhu Xiuli , Sun Hongzheng , Li Junzhou , Zhao Quanzhi , Sun Huwei
Published: June 2023

Nitrogen (N) is a vital major nutrient for rice (Oryza sativa). Rice responds to different applications of N by altering its root morphology, including root elongation. Although ammonium () is the primary source of N for rice, is toxic to rice roots and inhibits root elongation. However, the precise molecular mechanism that ‐inhibited root elongation of rice is not well understood. Here, we identified a rice T‐DNA insert mutant of OsMADS5 with a longer seminal root (SR) under sufficient N conditions. Reverse‐transcription quantitative PCR analysis revealed that the expression level of OsMADS5 was increased under compared with supply. Under conditions, knocking out OsMADS5 (cas9) produced a longer SR, phenocopying osmads5, while there was no significant difference in SR length between wild‐type and cas9 under supply. Moreover, OsMADS5‐overexpression plants displayed the opposite SR phenotype. Further study demonstrated that enhancement of OsMADS5 by supply inhibited rice SR elongation, likely by reducing root meristem activity of root tip, with the involvement of OsCYCB1;1. We also found that OsMADS5 interacted with OsSPL14 and OsSPL17 (OsSPL14/17) to repress their transcriptional activation by attenuating DNA binding ability. Moreover, loss of OsSPL14/17 function in osmads5 eliminated its stimulative effect on SR elongation under conditions, implying OsSPL14/17 may function downstream of OsMADS5 to mediate rice SR elongation under supply. Overall, our results indicate the existence of a novel modulatory pathway in which enhancement of OsMADS5 by supply represses the transcriptional activities of OsSPL14/17 to restrict SR elongation of rice.