bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A mechanism of melanogenesis mediated by E-cadherin downregulation and its involvement in solar lentigines
Authors: Inoue Daigo , Narita Tomomi , Ishikawa Keiko , Maeno Katsuyuki , Motoyama Akira , Ono Takayuki , Aoki Hirofumi , Shibata Takako
Published: January 2023

Background

Intensive studies have revealed pleiotropic melanocytic factors for age spot formation. In particular, dysfunctional keratinocyte differentiation is thought to be an upstream cause of age spot formation. Although keratinocyte differentiation is mediated by a cell-cell contact factor, E-cadherin, its involvement in age spots remains unknown. To find the origin of age spots and an integrated solution, we focused on E-cadherin.

Methods

Immunofluorescent staining with cutaneous tissues and cultured cells was performed. Keratinocytes treated with siRNAs were cocultured with melanocytes. With the supernatants of the keratinocyte culture, secretion factors were identified using proteomic analysis. For the activity of melanogenesis and the ingredient screening, a quantitative PCR was performed. For the behavioral analysis of melanocytes, time-lapse imaging of melanocytes was done by confocal laser scanning microscopy.

Results

In age spots, E-cadherin expression in the epidermis was downregulated, suggesting that E-cadherin is implicated in age spot formation. E-cadherin knockdown (E-cad-KD) keratinocytes not only promoted the secretion of melanocytic/inflammatory factors, but also increased melanogenesis by upregulating the expression of melanogenesis factors. Furthermore, live imaging showed E-cadherin downregulation detained melanocyte dynamics and accelerated melanin-uptake. Finally, we identified Rosa multiflora fruit extract as a solution for upregulating E-cadherin in keratinocytes.

Conclusion

Our findings showed that E-cadherin downregulation triggers various downstream melanocytic processes such as secretion of melanocytic factors and melanogenesis. Additionally, we showed that Rosa multiflora fruit extract upregulates E-cadherin expression in keratinocytes.
Kidins220 sets the threshold for survival of neural stem cells and progenitors to sustain adult neurogenesis
Authors: Puerto Ana del , Martí-Prado Beatriz , Barrios-Muñoz Ana L. , López-Fonseca Coral , Pose-Utrilla Julia , Alcover-Sanchez Berta , Cesca Fabrizia , Schiavo Giampietro , Campanero Miguel R , Fariñas Isabel , Iglesias Teresa , Porlan Eva
Published: January 2023

In the adult mammalian brain, neural stem cells (NSCs) located in highly restricted niches sustain the generation of new neurons that integrate into existing circuits. A reduction in adult neurogenesis is linked to ageing and neurodegeneration, whereas dysregulation of proliferation and survival of NSCs have been hypothesized to be at the origin of glioma. Thus, unravelling the molecular underpinnings of the regulated activation that NSCs must undergo to proliferate and generate new progeny is of considerable relevance. current research has identified cues promoting or restraining NSCs activation. Yet, whether NSCs depend on external signals to survive or if intrinsic factors establish a threshold for sustaining their viability remains elusive, even if this knowledge could involve potential for devising novel therapeutic strategies. Kidins220 (Kinase D-interacting substrate of 220 kDa) is an essential effector of crucial pathways for neuronal survival and differentiation. It is dramatically altered in cancer and in neurological and neurodegenerative disorders, emerging as a regulatory molecule with important functions in human disease. Herein, we discover severe neurogenic deficits and hippocampal-based spatial memory defects in Kidins220 deficient mice. Mechanistically, we demonstrate that Kidins220-dependent activation of AKT in response to EGF restraints GSK3 activity preventing NSCs apoptosis. Hence, Kidins220 levels set a molecular threshold for survival in response to mitogens, allowing adult NSCs to proliferate. Our study identifies Kidins220 as a key player for sensing the availability of growth factors to sustain adult neurogenesis, uncovering a molecular link that may help paving the way towards neurorepair.
Regularization regression methods for aerodynamic parameter estimation from flight data
Authors: Kumar Ajit , Ghosh A.K.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to estimate aerodynamic parameters using regularized regression-based methods.

Design/methodology/approach

Regularized regression methods used are LASSO, ridge and elastic net.

Findings

A viable option of aerodynamic parameter estimation from regularized regression-based methods is found.

Practical implications

Efficacy of the methods is examined on flight test data.

Originality/value

This study provides regularized regression-based methods for aerodynamic parameter estimation from the flight test data.
How cultural intelligence affects expatriate effectiveness in international construction projects
Authors: Chen Yuan , Yang Ziyue , Liu Bingsheng , Wang Dan , Xiao Yan , Wang Anmin
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the influence mechanism of expatriates' cultural intelligence (CQ) on expatriate effectiveness (task performance and premature return intention), identifying work engagement as a mediator and cultural distance as a boundary condition.

Design/methodology/approach

Drawing on the conservation of resource theory and the person–environment fit (P–E fit) theory, a moderated mediation model is built. Working with a sample of 303 international construction expatriates collected by snowball sampling, the hypotheses are tested by using the structural equation model analysis.

Findings

Work engagement partially mediates the relationship between expatriates' CQ and task performance, as well as fully mediates the relationship between expatriates' CQ and premature return intention. Cultural distance moderates the positive relationship between CQ and work engagement, as well as moderates the mediating effects of work engagement.

Research limitations/implications

The impacts of potential moderators (e.g. work–family conflict and organizational culture) on the relationship between CQ and expatriate effectiveness have not been considered in this study.

Practical implications

This study is useful for international construction firms to optimize the allocation of human resources.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the expatriate literature by adding empirical evidence to explain the influence mechanism of expatriates' CQ on expatriate effectiveness.
Modeling users’ and practitioners’ intention for continued usage of the Internet of Medical Devices (IoMD): an empirical investigation
Authors: Singh Manpreet , Tandon Urvashi , Mittal Amit
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to identify the antecedents of continued usage intentions in the connected devices ecosystem in health care by analyzing the users' and physicians' expectations in a new ecosystem where one prefers to connect digitally rather than physically.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a unique study in which data was collected from 242 doctors and 215 end-users to gauge the expectations from the connected devices in health care. Further, these responses were hypothesised using UTAUT-2 and ECT theories to analyze general users’ and professional users’ or doctors’ expectations for continued usage in connected devices ecosystem in the health-care ecosystem.

Findings

Performance expectancy, social influence, facilitating conditions and price value emerged as significant predictors of satisfaction in both user groups. But habit and hedonic motivation reflected an insignificant impact on user satisfaction. Surprisingly, effort expectancy emerged as a significant factor for end-user satisfaction, and this became insignificant for professional user satisfaction. Satisfaction was positively related to continued usage for both user groups, and app quality has a positive impact on all the predictors.

Practical implications

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first comparative study to understand the factors which influence consumer behavior leading to a holistic model and can be imbibed for creating a better customer experience in an era where we are more comfortable connecting digitally rather than physically.

Originality/value

This study has used the Unified Theory of Acceptance and Use of Technology-2 model and expectation confirmation theory to analyze the key factors influencing the intentions for continued usage of devices in the Internet of Medical Devices setup.
Factors influencing international students' trajectories: a comparative study of Chinese students in Japan and Australia
Authors: Liu Tongrui , Sato Yuriko , Breaden Jeremy
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aims to compare Chinese students' educational and career trajectories in Japan and Australia and to explore the factors that have influenced their choices that shaped their trajectories.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors applied the push-pull and life planning models to compare the factors that shaped the Chinese students' trajectories in Japan and Australia. The mixed-method approach was adopted by combining the result of 353 questionnaire responses and ten semi-structured interviews of Chinese international graduates to understand the factors influencing their decision-makings when choosing a study destination, a workplace and a place for settlement. The authors also interviewed six human resources managers of local companies to understand how Chinese international graduates are evaluated in the host country's labor market.

Findings

When choosing a study destination, cultural interest and inexpensive tuition fees are the pull factors for Japan, while family and friends' recommendations are strong motivations in choosing Australia. After graduation, utilization of capacity/specialty is a pull factor to work in Japan, while the prospect of promotion, good living environment and consideration for spouse/parents/children are the pull factors for Australia. Chinese graduates in Australia have stronger aspiration to remain in their study destination.

Originality/value

Since there are few cross-national studies on international students' trajectories, this study filled the research gap by comparing the trajectories of Chinese students in Japan and Australia and clarifying the factors that shaped them.
Impact of social media distraction on student evaluation of teacher effectiveness
Authors: Nema Priyanka , Srivastava Ritu , Bhalla Rohan , Chakarboty Abhinandan
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The study examines the impact of social media distraction on the relationship between student engagement and student evaluations of teachers (SET) in management education, part of the STEM disciplines. While it is widely accepted that student engagement and evaluation of teachers are two important constructs of active learning systems, their links, especially in the context of management education, have not been explored. This study seeks to fill this research gap as teachers' appraisal and career growth greatly depend on SET across higher education institutes worldwide.

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected from 247 student participants from higher education institutes/universities using a questionnaire-based survey. Further, 15 students were interviewed to glean insights from their feelings regarding social media distractions and how it impacts their engagement and evaluation of teachers. For the quantitative and qualitative analyses, multiple regression and thematic analysis were applied, respectively. A word tree was developed to determine the association between experiences and contexts.

Findings

The results indicate that social media distraction moderates the relationship between students' cognitive engagement and their evaluation of teaching faculty. Social media distractions disrupt student engagement inside the classroom, leading to wrong/biased assessments of teachers' performance. Additionally, cognitive and emotional engagement significantly impacted student evaluations of the management college faculty.

Originality/value

The authors’ findings enable educators in higher education systems, specifically management education, to rethink the faculty feedback system and social media distractions impeding student engagement other than SET drawbacks.
The influences of expressive and instrumental social ties in social commerce: integrating dyadic views from buyers and sellers
Authors: Li Xixi , Li Zhijie , Wang Qian , Guo Xunhua
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Entrepreneurs and individual sellers heavily leverage their social ties embedded in social media, expressive or instrumental, to penetrate the market and achieve business success. However, the extant social commerce literature offers limited understanding on how different forms of buyer−seller social ties embedded in social media affect buyers' purchase behaviors. The study draws on the theoretical lens of social ties and proposes an integrative theoretical framework to understand the direct and indirect influences of expressive and instrumental ties (ExTSM and InTSM) between buyers and sellers on buyers' purchase intention (PI) in social commerce.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors first validated the measures of ExTSM and InTSM with survey data from 166 Weibo commerce buyers. They then tested their theoretical framework and hypotheses with survey data from 246 buyer−seller dyads in WeChat commerce.

Findings

With a buyer-centric view, (1) ExTSM and InTSM, respectively, had a direct negative and a positive influence on PI; (2) both trust and perceived product value displayed inconsistent mediation effects on the negative relationship between ExTSM and PI; and (3) only perceived product value mediated the positive influence of InTSM on PI. From sellers' viewpoint, (1) their ExTSM and InTSM with buyers were mixed up, and (2) the mingled social ties negatively impacted buyers' purchase intention.

Originality/value

The findings of the study advance the theoretical understanding of social commerce and offer practical guidance for small and medium-sized enterprises to effectively utilize social media for business purposes.
Customer satisfaction as a mediator of service facility and word of mouth in higher learning institutions
Authors: Kazungu Isaac , Kubenea Hadija
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Higher learning institutions (HLIs) need to have quality service facilities to achieve customer satisfaction and positive word of mouth (WoM). The purpose of this study is to assess customer satisfaction as a mediator of service facility and WoM in the context of Tanzania's HLIs.

Design/methodology/approach

A mixed-methods approach was used to achieve the study objectives. Stratified and simple random sampling techniques were adopted to obtain the names of 201 students in HLIs in Tanzania. Confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and structural equation modelling (SEM) were used to test the hypotheses.

Findings

The findings show that service facility is significantly associated with both WoM and customer satisfaction, while the relationship between customer satisfaction and WoM is significant. The study also found that customer satisfaction mediates the relationship between service facility and WoM.

Practical implications

The practitioners of HLIs can invest in improving service facility. Service quality is an important component that impacts WoM in HLIs. This is the most important element that impacts students' satisfaction and WoM in HLIs more than any other element of service quality.

Originality/value

This paper adds to the body of knowledge on the role of customer satisfaction in mediating the relationship between service facility and WoM in the context of Tanzania's HLIs. This study also presents a methodological contribution for a better understanding of the predictors of customer satisfaction in HLIs from the students' point of view.
The Satoshi laundromat: a review on the money laundering open door of Bitcoin mixers
Authors: See Kenneth
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to examine the currently known techniques to tackle money laundering in Bitcoin mixers, and examine what gaps exist that would allow a criminal to get away with laundering Bitcoin obtained through illicit activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper first establishes the relevant properties of Bitcoin, how transactions occur over the Bitcoin network and then introduces the Bitcoin transaction graph as an important data structure for any analysis of Bitcoin transactions. Next, the paper outlines how Bitcoin mixing works, along with the relevant properties of mixers that would be relevant for money laundering. The paper then assesses the known methods for identifying mixed transactions within the Bitcoin network, followed by an assessment on identifying money laundering activities on known mixed transactions.

Findings

This paper argues that there remains a gap for criminals to launder money through Bitcoin mixing services as known methods would unlikely be able to trace a tainted transaction that goes through a decentralized mixer that uses off-chain communication techniques to coordinate the mixing and charges randomized mixing fees.

Research limitations/implications

The study of known methods is restricted to literature published in the public domain. There are private organizations that are tackling similar problems, but their methods are not published and therefore cannot be included in this paper.

Originality/value

To best of the author’s knowledge, this is the first paper that performs a contemporaneous review on anti-money laundering in the context of Bitcoin mixing. This paper could assist regulators and policymakers in their understanding of Bitcoin mixers and provide guidance on where they should focus their resources to address the money laundering problem of Bitcoin mixing.
Consumer attitudes and purchase intentions towards internet celebrity self-brands: an integrated view of congruence, brand authenticity and internet celebrity involvement
Authors: Tseng Timmy H. , Wang Han-Yu
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Internet celebrities have become key resources for consumers making purchase decisions. An increasing number of internet celebrities have begun to exert their influence by creating self-branded products. This study aims to examine the antecedents of consumer attitudes and purchase intentions towards internet celebrity self-brands by integrating cognitive consistency theory, cue utilisation theory and the literature on brand authenticity and celebrity involvement.

Design/methodology/approach

Two sub-samples of different social media brand communities were collected via online surveys of consumers with experience purchasing targeted internet celebrity self-brands. Partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS-SEM) was used to analyse the data.

Findings

The results of the two sub-samples provide convergent evidence that brand–consumer congruence, brand authenticity and internet celebrity involvement have positive correlations with consumer attitudes towards internet celebrity self-brands, which then positively correlate with purchase intentions in both psychological (Sub-sample 1) and social (Sub-sample 2) brand communities.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this research is the first to develop a comprehensive model of consumers’ attitudes towards internet celebrity self-brands, which predict purchase intentions. The model is empirically tested in different social media brand communities, and the convergent results show the power of the proposed model. Internet celebrity involvement is proposed as a key driver of brand attitudes, which has received little attention. We conceptualise internet celebrity involvement and develop a scale to measure it. Based on the findings, we propose strategies to improve the marketing effectiveness of internet celebrity self-brands.
Subordinates’ silence: the consequence of bullying behaviour and psychological insecurity among policemen
Authors: Vem Linus Jonathan , Peter Julfa Christian , Tali Danjuma Nimfa , Ochigbo Abel Daniel , Sambasivan Murali , Nmadu Teresa Mwuese
Published: January 2023

Purpose

There has been a growing concern about employee silence (ES) within an organization. ES is associated with low creativity and innovativeness, unethical organizational practices, avoidable errors and safety-related issues. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the mediating role of psychological insecurity (PI) in the relationship between leaders’ bullying behaviour (LBB) on defensive (DES) and acquiescent employee silence (AES).

Design/methodology/approach

Data were collected among police personnel working in Plateau state Nigeria. In all, a total of 350 responses were found useable for further analysis, of the 398 copies of the questionnaire administered. A structural equation modelling technique was used via SMART-PLS version 3.3.3 to test the hypothesized relationship.

Findings

The findings of this study revealed that leaders’ bullying positively and significantly influences both AES and DES, and PI was found to mediate the relationship between LBB and AES and DES.

Originality/value

LBB among the police has been under-researched, even when there is clear evidence of its existence. PI explains the mechanism through which LBB influences officers' silence.
Changes in dietary intake of aspartic acid during and after intermittent fasting correlate with an improvement in fasting glucose in overweight individuals
Authors: Karras Spyridon N. , Koufakis Theocharis , Dimakopoulos Georgios , Popovic Djordje S. , Kotsa Kalliopi
Published: January 2023

Highlights

We investigated a potential correlation between amino acid intake and glycemic markers among individuals who practiced intermittent fasting and controls.

Reduced aspartic acid intake during and after intermittent fasting presented a positive correlation with fasting glucose.

The positive effects of intermittent fasting on glucose metabolism could be partially related to a decrease in the ingestion of specific amino acids.
Sporadic hypophosphatemic osteomalacia combined with psoriasis: A rare case report and a brief review of the literature
Authors: Li Yuan , Chen Xiaohong , Wang Bin , Liu Xiaoming , Hou Suchun
Published: January 2023

Background

Hypophosphatemic osteomalacia (HO) is an unusual metabolic disease characterized by low concentrations of serum phosphate levels, which leads to reduced mineralization of the bone matrix. Typically, HO consists of 4 common types: X‐linked dominant hypophosphatemia (XLH), autosomal dominant hypophosphatemic rickets (ADHR), tumor‐induced osteomalacia (TIO), and sporadic HO.

Case Presentation

We herein report the case of a 48‐year‐old man who developed multiple joint and bone pain and muscle weakness over 5 months with a 23‐year history of psoriasis. He was diagnosed with psoriatic arthritis by primary hospitals but was unresponsive to etanercept and adalimumab treatments. After referral to our hospital, the patient was diagnosed with HOs combined with psoriasis. The patient was treated with oral phosphate solution, calcium, and active vitamin D, and the symptoms of bone and joint pain and muscle weakness gradually relieved. Since TIO accounts for the majority of adult‐onset HO, positron emission tomography – computed tomography or octreotide imaging examinations had been done yearly to locate any underlying tumor in our patient, with negative findings in the 4‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions

Diagnosis of HO remains a challenge to rheumatologists, and especially to dermatologists when accompanied by psoriasis. After excluding the inherited HO and with negative tumor, this report may be the first male case of sporadic HO combined with psoriasis.
Social jetlag and body mass index among shift‐working nurses in Korea: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Hwang Kyu Rim , Lee Miyoung , Jang Sun Joo
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Shift‐working nurses must function against their natural circadian system and are, thus, bound to be detrimentally affected by social jetlag. Circadian rhythms play a crucial role in regulating homeostasis, and social jetlag may increase one's risk for obesity. Therefore, this study aimed to identify associations between social jetlag and obesity among shift‐working nurses.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 183 nurses working rotating shifts in South Korea. Chronotype and social jetlag were measured using the Morningness‐Eveningness Questionnaire and the Munich Chronotype Questionnaire for Shift‐Workers, respectively. Obesity was defined as a body mass index of 25.0 or higher, which was calculated using self‐reported height and weight data. The associations between chronotype, social jetlag, and obesity were investigated using multiple logistic regression analysis.

Findings

A total of 183 nurses were included in the analysis (81.4% women and 80.3% single, median age = 27.00 years). Majority of the participants’ (95.1%) chronotypes were moderate evening or intermediate type. The mean overall social jetlag was 3 h and 31 min. The odds for obesity were 8.44 times higher among shift‐working nurses whose social jetlag was over 3 h and 31 min (95% confidence interval: 1.66–42.99) while controlling for chronotype, exercise time, and eating habits.

Conclusions

Social jetlag may increase the likelihood of obesity among rotating shift‐working nurses.

Implications for Nursing Practice

To achieve positive outcomes for promoting nurses’ health, upper nursing management should consider individual nurses’ social jetlag when scheduling shifts. In addition, nursing managers should have the responsibility to educate nurses involved in shift work about the adverse effects of social jetlag.
A review of the ecological and socioeconomic characteristics of trophy hunting across Asia
Authors: Parker B. G. , Khanyari M. , Ambarlı H. , Buuveibaatar B. , Kabir M. , Khanal G. , Mirzadeh H. R. , Onon Y. , Farhadinia M. S.
Published: January 2023

The continuing debates about trophy hunting should be underpinned by an understanding of at least the basic characteristics of the practice (e.g. species, quotas, areas, prices). Whilst many countries in Asia have established trophy hunting programmes of considerable importance to conservation and local livelihoods, there remains some ambiguity over the extent of trophy hunting in Asia as its basic characteristics in each country have not been compiled. In this study, we compile information on various ecological and socioeconomic characteristics of trophy hunting of mammals for countries across Asia by reviewing published and unpublished literature, analysing trade data, and obtaining contributions from in‐country contacts. Across Asia, established trophy hunting programmes exist in at least 11 countries and target at least 30 species and one hybrid (incl., five Vulnerable and one Endangered species). Trophy hunting in these countries varies markedly in areas (e.g. >1 million km2 in Kazakhstan, 37% of country, vs. 1325 km2 in Nepal, <1% of country) and annual offtakes (e.g. Kazakhstan: 4500 individuals from 4 of 5 trophy species; Pakistan: 229 from 4 of 7; Mongolia: 155 from 6 of 9; Tajikistan: 126 from 3 of 6; Nepal: 22 from 3 of the 4 that are trophy hunted in practice). Permit prices also vary across species and countries, with domestic and international hunters sometimes charged different rates. Hunters from the USA appear overwhelmingly prominent among international clients. National legislations typically mandate a proportion of trophy hunting revenue to accrue locally (range: 40–100%). We provide five key recommendations for research to inform trophy hunting policy in Asia: (1) Ecological impact assessments; (2) Socioeconomic impact assessments; (3) Evaluations of the contributions of trophy hunting to conservation spending; (4) Evaluations of the contributions of trophy hunting to the post‐2020 Global Biodiversity Framework; (5) Further examinations of perceptions of trophy hunting.
Environmental, structural, and taxonomic diversity factors drive aboveground carbon stocks in semi‐deciduous tropical rainforest strata in Cameroon
Authors: Zekeng Jules Christian , van der Sande Masha T. , Fobane Jean Louis , Mphinyane Wanda N. , Sebego Reuben , Ebanga Paul André , Mbolo Marguerite Marie
Published: January 2023

Forest stratification plays a crucial role in the interception of light and plants' photosynthetic activities. However, there is still a lack of information on the contribution of tropical forest stratification to its functioning, despite the increasing number of studies. Here, we analysed from a perspective of the whole tree community (WTC) and forest strata (i.e., large trees, understory trees, and small stems), the relationship between abiotic, biotic factors and aboveground Carbon (AGC). The abiotic factors‐AGC relationships were positive for all strata and WTC. However, soil factors‐AGC relationship was stronger for small stems and understorey, while topography factor‐AGC relationship was stronger for large trees and WTC. Tree size inequality‐AGC relationship was positive and much stronger for WTC, large trees and small stems. In addition, a species diversity‐AGC relationship was found positive only for large trees and WTC. These results highlight the niche complementarity effect for driving positive relationships of species diversity and individual tree size variation with aboveground biomass at large tree strata and WTC. The lack of positive effect of species diversity on AGC for understorey and small stems strata might be attributable to the selection effect or resource complementarity among species.
Representative Assemblies in Early Modern European State‐Building: Evidence from Four Experiences
Authors: Battegazzorre Francesco
Published: January 2023

The article reassesses the role played by parliaments and other representative structures in the European state‐building processes. It points to a need of going beyond the traditional antagonist conception of the relationships between rulers and social forces rooted in comparative historical political science, substituting it with a theory grounded in the concept of political exchange. A preliminary analysis of four cases (Brandenburg‐Prussia, Dutch Republic, Poland, and Sweden) is conducted, with the purpose of singling out the “internal” determinants — that is, institutional properties of the assemblies — that allowed them to integrate into the institutional framework of the states in formation, or that hindered such an integration. These determinants are found to consist in three main factors: organisational centralisation, working autonomy, and a significant interdependence relationship with a distinct and relatively autonomous governmental centre.
Neurovascular hypoxia after mild traumatic brain injury in juvenile mice correlates with heart–brain dysfunctions in adulthood
Authors: Leyba Katherine , Paiyabhroma Nitchawat , Salvas John P. , Damen Frederick W. , Janvier Alicia , Zub Emma , Bernis Corinne , Rouland Richard , Dubois Christophe J. , Badaut Jerome , Richard Sylvain , Marchi Nicola , Goergen Craig J. , Sicard Pierre
Published: January 2023

Aim

Retrospective studies suggest that mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in pediatric patients may lead to an increased risk of cardiac events. However, the exact functional and temporal dynamics and the associations between heart and brain pathophysiological trajectories are not understood.

Methods

A single impact to the left somatosensory cortical area of the intact skull was performed on juvenile mice (17 days postnatal). Cerebral 3D photoacoustic imaging was used to measure the oxygen saturation (sO2) in the impacted area 4 h after mTBI followed by 2D and 4D echocardiography at days 7, 30, 90, and 190 post‐impact. At 8 months, we performed a dobutamine stress test to evaluate cardiac function. Lastly, behavioral analyses were conducted 1 year after initial injury.

Results

We report a rapid and transient decrease in cerebrovascular sO2 and increased hemoglobin in the impacted left brain cortex. Cardiac analyses showed long‐term diastolic dysfunction and a diminished systolic strain response under stress in the mTBI group. At the molecular level, cardiac T‐p38MAPK and troponin I expression was pathologic modified post‐mTBI. We found linear correlations between brain sO2 measured immediately post‐mTBI and long‐term cardiac strain after 8 months. We report that initial cerebrovascular hypoxia and chronic cardiac dysfunction correlated with long‐term behavioral changes hinting at anxiety‐like and memory maladaptation.

Conclusion

Experimental juvenile mTBI induces time‐dependent cardiac dysfunction that corresponds to the initial neurovascular sO2 dip and is associated with long‐term behavioral modifications. These imaging biomarkers of the heart–brain axis could be applied to improve clinical pediatric mTBI management.
Birth equity on the front lines: Impact of a community‐based doula program in Brooklyn, NY
Authors: Thomas Mary‐Powel , Ammann Gabriela , Onyebeke Chinelo , Gomez Tanya K. , Lobis Samantha , Li Wenhui , Huynh Mary
Published: January 2023

Background

We assessed whether participation in Healthy Start Brooklyn's By My Side Birth Support Program—a maternal‐health program providing community‐based doula support during pregnancy, labor and delivery, and the early postpartum period—was associated with improved birth outcomes. By My Side takes a strength‐based approach that aligns with the doula principles of respecting the client's autonomy, providing culturally appropriate care without judgment or conditions, and promoting informed decision making.

Methods

Using a matched cohort design, birth certificate records for By My Side participants from 2010 through 2017 (n = 603) were each matched to three controls who also lived in the program area (n = 1809). Controls were matched on maternal age, race/ethnicity, education level, and trimester of prenatal‐care initiation, using the simple random sampling method. The sample was restricted to singleton births. The odds of preterm birth, low birthweight, and cesarean birth were estimated, using conditional logistic regression.

Results

By My Side participants had lower odds of having a preterm birth (5.6% vs 11.9%, P < .0001) or a low‐birthweight baby (5.8% vs 9.7%, P = .0031) than controls. There was no statistically significant difference in the odds of cesarean delivery.

Conclusion

Participation in the By My Side Birth Support Program was associated with lower odds of preterm birth and low birthweight for participants, who were predominantly Black and Hispanic. Investing in doula services is an important way to address birth inequities among higher risk populations such as birthing people of color and those living in poverty. It could also help shape a new vision of the maternal‐health system, placing the needs and well‐being of birthing people at the center.
Influence of buccal bone wall thickness on the peri‐implant hard and soft tissue dimensional changes: A systematic review
Authors: Monje Alberto , Roccuzzo Andrea , Buser Daniel , Wang Hom‐Lay
Published: January 2023

Background

The significance on the association between the peri‐implant bucco‐lingual dimension (BLD) at the stage of implant placement and the occurrence of biological and esthetic complications is yet unknown.

Material and methods

Systematic screening of electronic sources was carried out to identify clinical and preclinical studies reporting on the baseline BLD and/or buccal bone thickness (BBT) values. A secondary objective was to assess the effect of simultaneous grafting at sites with deficient or no buccal bone wall (BBW) at baseline. The primary outcome variables were BBT, BLD, and buccal vertical bone loss (VBL) at re‐evaluation. Moreover, radiographic, clinical, and patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) were evaluated.

Results

Overall, 12 clinical and four preclinical studies met the inclusion criteria. Inconsistencies were found in defining the critical BBT across the clinical and preclinical data evaluated. The clinical evidence demonstrated that during healing, dimensional changes occur in the alveolar bone and in the BBW that may compromise the integrity of the peri‐implant bone, leading to VBL and mucosal recession (MR), particularly in scenarios exhibiting a thin BBW. The preclinical evidence validated the fact that implants placed in the presence of a thin BBW, are more prone to exhibit major dimensional changes and VBL. Moreover, the clinical data supported that, in scenarios where dehiscence‐type defects occur and are left for spontaneous healing, greater VBL and MR together with the occurrence of biologic complications are expected. Furthermore, the augmentation of dehiscence‐type defects is associated with hard and soft tissue stability. PROMs were not reported.

Conclusions

Dimensional changes occur as result of implant placement in healed ridges that may lead to instability of the peri‐implant hard and soft tissues. Sites presenting a thin BBW are more prone to exhibit major changes that may compromise the integrity of the buccal bone and may lead to biologic and esthetic complications.
Site‐specific inhibition of the thalamic reticular nucleus induces distinct modulations in sleep architecture
Authors: Visocky Vladimir , Morris Brian J. , Dunlop John , Brandon Nick , Sakata Shuzo , Pratt Judith A.
Published: January 2023

The thalamic reticular nucleus (TRN) is crucial for the modulation of sleep‐related oscillations. The caudal and rostral subpopulations of the TRN exert diverse activities, which arise from their interconnectivity with all thalamic nuclei, as well as other brain regions. Despite the recent characterization of the functional and genetic heterogeneity of the TRN, the implications of this heterogeneity for sleep regulation have not been assessed. Here, using a combination of optogenetics and electrophysiology in C57BL/6 mice, we demonstrate that caudal and rostral TRN modulations are associated with changes in cortical alpha and delta oscillations and have distinct effects on sleep stability. Tonic silencing of the rostral TRN elongates sleep episodes, while tonic silencing of the caudal TRN fragments sleep. Overall, we show evidence of distinct roles exerted by the rostral and caudal TRN in sleep regulation and oscillatory activity.
Lost in transitional space? Organising labour market integration for highly skilled refugees in the welfare state
Authors: Diedrich Andreas , Omanović Vedran
Published: January 2023

Labour market integration of refugees is seen as a major challenge in many countries. This article draws on a qualitative study focused on highly skilled refugees participating in two internship programmes at two large private companies in Sweden. We draw on the concepts of organisational socialisation and liminality to suggest that such programmes, when organised in collaboration between private companies and public organisations as part of the labour market integration support offered by the welfare state, further entrench the liminal position of refugees. The refugee interns find themselves in a liminal space, aspiring to secure not only a future professional role at the workplace but also the role of an integrated member of the Swedish labour market—a role that is ambiguously defined and constantly shifting as ideas of what it means to be employable shift too. This is a position that is not without its problems, ambiguities and uncertainties and requires a new perspective on organising labour market integration of refugees.
The state of oral health in patients with haemophilia in the Netherlands
Authors: Mulders Greta , van Verseveld Hanneke , van der Geer Joyce , Wolvius Eppo , Leebeek Frank
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Previous studies show contradictory outcomes regarding dental, gingival and periodontal status in persons with haemophilia (PWH) compared to healthy controls. PWH may experience disease‐specific barriers to access dental care due to their bleeding tendency, which may lead to delays in oral care and severe dental problems.

Aim

To determine the current subjective and objective oral health status in adult PWH.

Methods

Randomly selected PWH of the Erasmus MC Haemophilia Treatment Center (HTC), Rotterdam, the Netherlands, were invited to participate. Data was collected using the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐14NL) and personal interviews. A dentist used the DMFT index, the Dutch Periodontal Screening index (DPSI), plaque and bleeding index to score the dental status.

Results

Forty‐eight adult PWH were included in this study, 20 mild, 15 moderate‐severe and 13 severe haemophilia with a mean age of 44.7. PWH scored low on the OHIP‐14 questionnaire (median total score 1.0; IQR .0–3.0), indicating a high self‐rating oral health status. The number of bleeding events, bleeding‐ and plaque index score was not statistically significant between patients with mild, moderate or severe haemophilia. The mean number of decayed, missing, and filled teeth (DMFT‐score) was significantly lower in the group of patients with severe haemophilia (median 2.0) compared to mild haemophilia (median 16.0) (p = .04). Twenty‐five patients (52.1%) reported to have encountered bleeding problems during or after dental interventions during their lifetime.

Conclusion

Dutch adult PWH A/B have good dental status and oral health status.
High‐toughness mullite ceramics fabricated by hot‐press sintering of pyrophyllite and AlOOH at low temperatures
Authors: Wang Xin , Chen Yazhong , Han Xiaozhao , Yu Jiarui , Xiao Kesong , Zhang Xianlong , Wu Xueping
Published: January 2023

High‐toughness mullite ceramics were fabricated through hot‐press sintering (HPS) of pyrophyllite and AlOOH, which were wet‐milled and well mixed using a planetary ball mill. The impacts of sintering temperatures and contents of AlOOH on mullite phase formation, densification, microstructure and mechanical properties in ceramic materials were investigated through XRD, SEM and mechanical properties determination. The results indicated that high‐toughness mullite ceramics could be successfully prepared by HPS at temperatures higher than 1200°C for 120 min. Increasing the sintering temperature from 1000 to 1300°C significantly enhanced the flexural strength and fracture toughness of samples. The highest flexural strength of 297.97±25.32 MPa and fracture toughness of 4.64±0.11 MPa⋅m1/2 were obtained for samples sintered at 1300°C. Further increase of temperature to 1400°C resulted in slight decrease of flexural strength and fracture toughness. Compared with the mullite ceramics prepared only using pyrophyllite as raw material, incorporation of AlOOH into raw material significantly increased the mechanical properties of final mullite ceramics. And stoichiometric AlOOH and pyrophyllite as starting material gave the best performance in fracture toughness. The high‐toughness of mullite ceramics were ascribed to the high mullite phase content, fine mullite whiskers and in situ formed, intertwined three‐dimensional network structure obtained through HPS at a low temperature of 1300°C.
Clinical associations of patients with anti–3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl CoA reductase antibody–associated immune‐mediated necrotising myopathy
Authors: Tan Elina , Knight Jacinta , Khonasti Steffi , Nolan David , McGettigan Benjamin , Bundell Chris , Needham Merrilee , Brusch Anna
Published: January 2023

Background

Anti–3‐hydroxy‐3‐methylglutaryl CoA reductase (HMGCR) antibodies are associated with a subtype of immune‐mediated necrotising myopathy (IMNM).

Aims

To determine clinical associations of anti‐HMGCR antibodies for anti‐HMGCR–associated IMNM (HMGCR‐IMNM) among a cohort of patients in Western Australia and to determine whether serial HMGCR antibody levels parallel disease activity.

Methods

Adult patients with positive anti‐HMGCR antibodies detected by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay between January 2015 and November 2019 were included. Symptoms, examination findings, imaging findings and blood test results were reviewed retrospectively using patient records and laboratory database results.

Results

Among 26 patients with positive anti‐HMGCR antibodies, 23 were diagnosed with HMGCR‐IMNM representing a positive predictive value (PPV) of 88%. Myopathy was frequently severe at diagnosis with limb weakness graded as Medical Research Council score 3 or below in 78% of patients, bulbar muscle weakness in 39% and an average creatine kinase (CK) at diagnosis of 7986 U/L. The majority (83%) required at least two therapies to maintain remission, 48% had at least one flare of disease and 57% did not achieve CK normalisation. Correlation between CK and anti‐HMGCR antibody level at diagnosis was low (r = 0.04). Anti‐HMGCR antibodies fell with treatment in 10 of 12 patients, but remained persistently positive in 83% of patients.

Conclusions

The PPV of anti‐HMGCR antibodies for HMGCR‐IMNM in this Western Australian cohort is 88%. Patients typically present with proximal limb weakness, dysphagia and markedly elevated CK, and, despite multiagent immunosuppression, a significant number of patients have evidence of persistent biochemical myositis. Anti‐HMGCR antibodies did not correlate with CK levels at diagnosis.
Sociodemographic determinants of telehealth utilisation in general practice during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Australia
Authors: Dai Zhaoli , Sezgin Gorkem , Hardie Rae‐Anne , McGuire Precious , Pearce Christopher , McLeod Adam , Georgiou Andrew
Published: January 2023

This analysis assessed the sociodemographic characteristics of telehealth utilisation during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic from March 2020 to August 2021 in Australia. Drawing on 860 general practice providers among 3 161 868 patients, 24 527 274 consultations were recorded. Telehealth accounted for 37.6% of the consultations, with 2.4% through videoconferencing and 35.2% through phone consultations. Our multivariate regression analyses indicated low utilisation of videoconferencing compared with phone consultations among older adults, those living in rural communities and migrants from non‐English speaking countries.