bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Delayed pull‐through coloanal anastomosis without temporary stoma: an alternative to the standard manual side‐to‐end coloanal anastomosis with temporary stoma? A comparative study in 223 patients with low rectal cancer
Authors: Melka Dan , Leiritz Elsa , Labiad Camélia , Blondeau Marc , Frontali Alice , Giacca Massimo , Monsinjon Marie , Panis Yves
Published: January 2022

Aim

After total mesorectal excision (TME) for low rectal cancer, current guideline recommendations for sphincter‐saving surgery are to perform a side‐to‐end manual coloanal anastomosis (CAA) (or with J‐pouch) with a temporary stoma. Our study aimed to evaluate if delayed pull‐through coloanal anastomosis (DCAA) without a temporary stoma could represent a safe alternative in low rectal cancer.

Method

From 2003 to 2020, 223 consecutive patients with low rectal cancer undergoing TME were compared: CAA and diverting stoma (n = 190) versus DCAA without stoma (n = 33).

Results

Overall 3‐month and severe (Dindo ≥ IIIb) morbidity rates were similar in CAA versus DCAA groups: 34% (65/190) vs. 36% (12/33) and 2.6% (5/190) vs. 3% (1/33), respectively. In the DCAA group, only one patient (3%) underwent reoperation (Hartmann's procedure) at day 3 due to colon necrosis. The anastomotic leakage rate (both clinical and radiological) was significantly higher after CAA than DCAA: 28% (53/190) vs. 3% (1/33; p = 0.00138). Failure of the procedure (with return to stoma) was observed in 8% (15/190) vs. 6% (2/33) of patients after CAA and DCAA respectively (not significant).

Conclusion

Our comparative study suggested that in patients with low rectal cancer, DCAA without a temporary stoma could represent an interesting alternative to the actual recommended CAA with a temporary ileostomy. DCAA could offer two major advantages over CAA: a significantly lower rate of anastomotic leakage and absence of a temporary stoma and its potential complications (rehospitalization, dehydration, wound hernia after stoma closure).
Associations between diabetic retinopathy and modifiable risk factors: An umbrella review of meta‐analyses
Authors: Trott Mike , Driscoll Robin , Pardhan Shahina
Published: January 2022

Aims

Several modifiable risk factors have been meta‐analysed for diabetic retinopathy (DR), such as physical activity and vitamin D status. To date, these factors have not been systematically aggregated and the credibility of evidence assessed. Therefore, the aim of this umbrella review was to aggregate all modifiable risks of DR and assess the credibility of the evidence.

Methods

An umbrella review of meta‐analyses was undertaken. For each meta‐analytic association, random‐effects effect size, 95% confidence intervals (CIs), heterogeneity, small‐study effects, excess significance bias and 95% prediction intervals were calculated. The credibility of significant evidence (p < 0.05) was graded from I to IV, using pre‐defined criteria.

Results

After initial searches, 13 studies were included covering 34 independent outcomes (total participants = 824,372). Positive associations were found between insulin usage and diabetic macular oedema (RR = 4.5; 95% CI 3.1–6.6), and DR risk (RR = 2.3; 95% CI 1.4–3.9) in people with type 2 diabetes. Vitamin D deficiency was associated with DR risk (OR = 2.8; 95% CI 1.1–7.1), as was obesity (RR = 1.34; 95% CI 1.06–1.68) and sedentary behaviour (RR = 1.22; 95%CI 1.03–1.44). Intensive blood pressure targets (RR = 0.8 95%CI 0.8–1.0), and moderate physical activity (RR = 0.69; 95%CI 0.53–0.91) yielded significant protective associations with DR.

Conclusions

People with type 2 diabetes on insulin have a high risk of macular oedema and DR. Vitamin D deficiency yielded almost three times greater odds of DR, while intensive blood pressure control reduces DR risk by 20% and moderate physical activity by 31%. Healthcare professionals should use this evidence to identify those people most at risk to ensure that proper treatment and healthy lifestyles are recommended.
Cumulative effects of sex pheromone components in mate recognition of Muscidifurax raptorellus
Authors: Pokorny Tamara , Bogenberger Katharina , Ruther Joachim
Published: January 2022

In insects, chemical information is often crucial for mate recognition. The chemical signal may be perceived already from a distance or only at close range, depending on the volatility of the sex pheromone compounds. In many species, close‐range mate recognition is mediated by compounds of low volatility that originate from the insects’ cuticular lipid layer. The most prominent constituents are usually non‐polar hydrocarbons, but other, more polar compounds can be present as well. Upon detection, these lipids can elicit courtship behaviour. We studied mate recognition in the parasitoid wasp Muscidifurax raptorellus Kogan & Legner (Hymenoptera: Pteromalidae). In this species, courtship behaviour starts with bouts of wing fanning (high frequency wing beats while standing or walking). Once the male has mounted the female, he shows stereotypical antennal movements (antennal courtship) that lead to female receptivity signalling and copulation. We investigated the role of chemical compounds for mate recognition by evaluating the reaction of male M. raptorellus towards live conspecifics and dummies treated with whole‐body extracts or with extract fractions (non‐polar, intermediately polar, and polar compounds) in bioassays. Our results indicate that despite the sex specificity of cuticular hydrocarbon profiles, these compounds alone are not sufficient for mate recognition. Rather, we found that cuticular lipids of all three fractions seem to constitute the mate recognition signal, with a ternary mixture eliciting wing fanning significantly more often than single fractions. Overall, our results suggest that the three lipid fractions contribute cumulatively to the mate recognition signal.
The associations of cannabis and methamphetamine use with cognitive performance over the first 2 years of treatment in schizophrenia spectrum disorders
Authors: Scheffler Freda , Phahladira Lebogang , Hendrikse Chanellé B. , du Plessis Stefan , Asmal Laila , Luckhoff Hilmar K. , Smit Anna Margaretha , Olivier M. Riaan , Emsley Robin
Published: February 2022

Aim

Cognitive deficits are a core feature of schizophrenia, and comorbid substance use may be a contributory factor. Methamphetamine use has been associated with cognitive impairment in schizophrenia, while associations with cannabis use are less clear‐cut. This study aimed to investigate the associations of cannabis and methamphetamine use with cognitive performance in first‐episode schizophrenia spectrum disorders over the first 2 years of treatment.

Methods

This was a longitudinal cohort study in 81 patients treated with flupenthixol decanoate according to a standardized protocol over 24 months. Cognitive performance was assessed with the Measurement and Treatment Research to Improve Cognition in Schizophrenia Cognitive Consensus Battery at four time points, and urine testing for cannabis and methamphetamine was conducted at six time points. We used linear mixed‐effect models for repeated measures to assess visit‐wise changes in composite cognitive scores in patients (n = 91) compared to matched controls without psychiatric or medical disorders (n = 100). Linear regression models were constructed to examine pre‐treatment and end‐point effects in patients.

Results

Compared to controls, patients exhibited greater cognitive impairments at baseline, which improved with treatment, but remained significantly lower throughout. The number of positive methamphetamine, but not cannabis, tests predicted less cognitive improvement in patients.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest a negative association between methamphetamine and cognition, but not cannabis.
Dorsal–lateral clock neurons modulate consolidation and maintenance of long‐term memory in Drosophila
Authors: Suzuki Yuki , Kurata Yuto , Sakai Takaomi
Published: January 2022

A newly formed memory is initially unstable. However, if it is consolidated into the brain, the consolidated memory is stored as stable long‐term memory (LTM). Despite the recent progress, the molecular and cellular mechanisms of LTM have not yet been fully elucidated. The fruitfly Drosophila melanogaster, for which various genetic tools are available, has been used to clarify the molecular mechanisms of LTM. Using the Drosophila courtship‐conditioning assay as a memory paradigm, we previously identified that the circadian clock gene period (per) plays a vital role in consolidating LTM, suggesting that per‐expressing clock neurons are critically involved in LTM. However, it is still incompletely understood which clock neurons are essential for LTM. Here, we show that dorsal–lateral clock neurons (LNds) play a crucial role in LTM. Using an LNd‐specific split‐GAL4 line, we confirmed that disruption of synaptic transmission in LNds impaired LTM maintenance. On the other hand, induction of per RNAi or the dominant‐negative transgene of Per in LNds impaired LTM consolidation. Our results reveal that transmitter release and Per function in LNds are involved in courtship memory processing.
Vrk2 deficiency elicits aggressive behavior in female zebrafish
Authors: Umeda Ryohei , Teranishi Hitoshi , Hada Kazumasa , Shimizu Nobuyuki , Shiraishi Hiroshi , Urushibata Hirotaro , Lai Shaohong , Shide Masahito , Carrasco Apolinario Magdeline E. , Higa Ryoko , Shikano Kenshiro , Shin Toshitaka , Mimata Hiromitsu , Hikida Takatoshi , Hanada Toshikatsu , Hanada Reiko
Published: January 2022

Vaccinia‐related kinase 2 (VRK2) is a serine/threonine kinase initially identified in highly proliferative cells such as thymocytes and fetal liver cells, and it is involved in cell proliferation and survival. VRK2 is also expressed in the brain; however, its molecular function in the central nervous system is mostly unknown. Many genome‐wide association studies (GWASs) have reported that VRK2 is a potential candidate molecule for neuropsychiatric diseases such as schizophrenia in humans. However, the pathophysiological relationship between VRK2 and neuropsychiatric disorders has not been fully investigated. In this study, we evaluated vrk2‐deficient (vrk2−/−) zebrafish and found that vrk2−/− female zebrafish showed aggressive behavior and different social preference compared with control (vrk2+/+) zebrafish, with low gamma‐aminobutyric acid (GABA) content in the brain and high density of neuronal dendrites when compared to vrk2+/+ zebrafish. These findings suggest that female vrk2−/− zebrafish were indeed a model of malbehavior characterized by aggression and social interaction, which can be attributed to the low levels of GABA content in their brain.
Facilitating Open Pit Mine Closure with Managed Aquifer Recharge
Authors: Cook Peter G. , Miller Anthony D. , Wallis Ilka , Dogramaci Shawan
Published: January 2022

Dewatering of open pit mines can lower the regional water table for distances of several kilometers from the pit. When the mine is closed, dewatering operations usually cease, and the water table near the pit begins to rise. If the pit is backfilled, the water table will eventually recover, but this recovery may take several hundred years. However, if the extracted water is re‐injected into the subsurface, then this may accelerate recovery of the water table. We show that there is an optimal distance for re‐injection, which is sufficiently far from the mine to minimize the amount of groundwater that flows back to the pit during mine operations (and hence necessitate additional pumping) but is still close enough to speed up the water table recovery post‐mine closure. The optimal injection distance increases with the aquifer hydraulic diffusivity and the mine life (duration of dewatering and injection), and typically ranges between about two and nine times the radius of the mine pit. Where the mine pit is not backfilled, the relative reduction in drawdown due to injecting all the pumped water at the optimal distance is between approximately 10% and 50% after a recovery time equal to the mining period, increasing to 30% to 90% after a recovery time five times the mining period. The relative drawdown reduction due to managed aquifer recharge will be even greater for a pit which is backfilled when mining ceases.
Pruritus‐reducing effects of omega‐3 fatty acids in hemodialysis patients: A cross‐over randomized clinical trial
Authors: Forouhari Ali , Moghtaderi Masoud , Raeisi Sina , Shahidi Shahrzad , Parin Hedayati Zahra , Zaboliyan Jinoos , Ani Sima , Moeinzadeh Firouzeh , Mortazavi Mojgan
Published: February 2022

Introduction

Chronic kidney disease‐associated pruritus is a common complication in patients with end‐stage renal disease. In this study, we have explored the outcome of omega‐3 supplementary intake for the treatment of this symptom.

Methods

This double‐blinded, randomized, crossover study was conducted in two dialysis centers in which 40 hemodialysis patients suffering from pruritus were randomly assigned into two groups (Group A and Group B). Patients in Group A consumed omega‐3 capsules for 4 weeks and after a washout period (6 weeks), they took placebo for another 4 weeks. The same was performed in Group B but in the reverse order. Pruritus score was determined at the baseline, Week 4, 10, and 14. Serum levels of prostaglandin E2 were also recorded at the baseline and Week 4.

Results

There was a statistically significant reduction of pruritus score in patients who took the omega‐3 fatty acid supplement. The mean pruritus score decreased significantly in both first (−3.41 ± 2.62, p < 0.001) and second (−1.00 ± 1.84, p = 0.04) treatment period after omega‐3 treatment; but no significant mean pruritus score difference in placebo group after both intervention periods was observed. The decrease in prostaglandin E2 amount was not statistically significant in the intervention (omega‐3) group compared to the placebo group (p = 0.204).

Discussion

Our observations indicate that omega‐3 fatty acids (3 grams per day) have decreasing effects on pruritus. Also, reduction in prostaglandin E2 levels in the omega‐3 group did not differ from the changes in the placebo group.
Clinicodemographic features of mixed vitiligo: a case–control study
Authors: Kumar Sheetanshu , Vinay Keshavamurthy , Choudhary Rajat , Thakur Vishal , Bishnoi Anuradha , Kumaran Muthu Sendhil , Parsad Davinder
Published: January 2022

Background

Mixed vitiligo (MV) is the coexistence of segmental vitiligo (SV) and non‐segmental vitiligo (NSV). The literature on MV is sparse.

Objective

To assess the clinicodemographic and treatment parameters in MV and compare them with SV.

Methods

Clinical data of MV and SV patients enrolled in our pigmentary clinic from July 2015 to December 2019 were reviewed retrospectively and compared.

Results

Out of a total of 4,371 vitiligo patients, 293 (6.7%) were SV while 74 (1.69%) were MV. As compared to SV, MV had significantly lower mean age of onset of segmental component (SC) (13.33 ± 9.01 vs. 15.70 ± 8.60 years, P = 0.03) and significantly higher proportion of patients with more than 1% body surface involvement by SC (66.2% vs. 51.5%, P = 0.03) and presence of leukotrichia in the SC (66.2% vs. 51.5%, P = 0.03). Topical agents and systemic immunosuppressive agents were significantly more effective in non‐segmental component (NSC) as compared to SC of MV. Surgical modalities were the only effective treatment modality for SC.

Limitations

Retrospective design, heterogeneity of treatment regimens.

Conclusion

Early age of onset, larger (>1%) body surface area involvement, and leukotrichia in SV predict its progression into MV with time. Treatment response to different modalities varies significantly between SC and NSC of MV.
Utility of 30% hydrogen peroxide in the treatment of seborrheic keratosis
Authors: Suvarna Punya , Kayarkatte Manasa Narayan
Published: January 2022

Background

Hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) has been used in medicine as an antiseptic, but at a higher concentration of 40%, it is used as a chemical cauterant for seborrheic keratoses (SKs). Its action and hence utility at 30% is unexplored. It can serve as a relatively inexpensive modality of treatment for SKs.

Objectives

To evaluate the efficacy and side effects of 30% H2O2 as a chemical cauterant in SKs.

Methods

Seborrheic keratoses were treated with 30% H2O2 methodically. Posttreatment assessment was done for the lesion thickness, patient satisfaction, and side effects like burning, itching, edema, crusting, vesiculation, erosion, ulceration, and pigmentary changes.

Results

Complete clearance was noted in 25 (49%) lesions, after a single session. Five (9%) lesions responded poorly. Patient satisfaction was excellent with 34 (66.7%) lesions. Side effects noted were burning, pruritus, erythema, edema, and crusting. However, none of them was severe. Dryness, vesiculation, and scarring were reported by none.

Conclusions

H2O2 30% can be used as a chemical cauterant with minimal side effects.
Serious health threat of mucormycosis during the ongoing COVID‐19 pandemic: what dermatologists need to know in this regard
Authors: Hatami Parvaneh , Balighi Kamran , Nicknam Asl Hamed , Aryanian Zeinab
Published: January 2022

Background

Recently, a surge of mucormycosis in patients affected with or recovered from SARS‐Cov‐2 has been noted, especially in developing countries such as India, Pakistan, and Iran.

Aim

To focus on existing data about the important aspects of COVID‐associated mucormycosis.

Methods

We searched on PubMed, Google Scholar, and Scopus in this regard, and all of the relevant papers published until August 28, 2021, for which we could access their full‐texts, were included.

Results

We found some recommendations made by ophthalmologists, anesthesiologists, and ENT surgeons and tried to summarize them to provide a practical guide for dermatologists.

Conclusion

Careful examination and clinical suspicion are the key factors for correct diagnosis especially in patients affected by or recently recovered from COVID. Implementing some preventive measures such as using a titrated dose of corticosteroids and encouraging patients to get vaccinated should be considered to tackling this serious issue.
Clinical features, histology, and treatment outcomes of granular parakeratosis: a systematic review
Authors: Ip Ken Hiu‐Kan , Li Angela
Published: January 2022

Background

Granular parakeratosis is a rare disorder characterized by erythematous‐brown hyperkeratotic papules and erythematous patches with scaling, occurring predominantly in the flexures and sites of occlusion. While the exact underlying pathogenesis remains unknown, there has been a wide variety of precipitating factors and treatment options reported in the literature.

Objective

We systematically reviewed and identified precipitants of granular parakeratosis, as well as its clinical and histologic features and treatment outcomes.

Method

A comprehensive literature search was conducted using MEDLINE and Embase in March 2021.

Results

A total of 60 studies with 129 patients were included for analysis. An inciting factor was identified in 53.4%, the most common being topical agents including zinc oxide (17.1%), deodorant/antiperspirant (15.5%), and those containing benzalkonium chloride (7.0%). The majority presented with bilateral (68.2%) eruption of hyperkeratotic papules or erythematous patches and plaques, most frequently involving the axilla (56.5%). The prevailing histologic feature was retained keratohyalin granules within the stratum corneum in punch biopsy (97.2%) and curette (100%) specimens. Treatment options with reported success ranged from topical corticosteroids and systemic antibiotics to surgical interventions.

Conclusion

We provide a systematic review of reported precipitants, clinical features, and treatment options that clinicians should consider when granular parakeratosis is considered.
Constructing Flexible, Identifiable and Interpretable Statistical Models for Binary Data
Authors: Scharf Henry R. , Lu Xinyi , Williams Perry J. , Hooten Mevin B.
Published: January 2022

Binary regression models are ubiquitous in virtually every scientific field. Frequently, traditional generalised linear models fail to capture the variability in the probability surface that gives rise to the binary observations, and remedial methods are required. This has generated a substantial literature composed of binary regression models motivated by various applications. We describe an organisation of generalisations to traditional binary regression methods based on the familiar three‐part structure of generalised linear models (random component, systematic component and link function). This perspective facilitates both the comparison of existing approaches and the development of flexible models with interpretable parameters that capture application‐specific data‐generating mechanisms. We use our proposed organisational structure to discuss concerns with certain existing models for binary data based on quantile regression. We then use the framework to develop and compare several binary regression models tailored to occupancy data for European red squirrels (Sciurus vulgaris).
Probiotic properties of yeasts in traditional fermented foods and beverages
Authors: Tamang Jyoti Prakash , Lama Sonam
Published: January 2022

The interest in potentiality and functionality of probiotic yeasts from fermented foods has increased drastically over the years. In many fermented foods and beverages, lactic acid bacteria and yeasts exist synergistically by stimulating their growth and survival. Probiotic strains of lactic acid bacteria are more widely studied than potential probiotic yeasts. Saccharomyces cerevisiae variety boulardii is the only commercialized probiotic yeast, which are extensively studied. This review article provides information on the presence of potential probiotic yeasts in some traditional fermented foods and beverages.
Pantropical diversification of padauk trees and relatives was influenced by biome‐switching and long‐distance dispersal
Authors: Schley Rowan J. , Qin Ming , Vatanparast Mohammad , Malakasi Panagiota , de la Estrella Manuel , Lewis Gwilym P. , Klitgård Bente B.
Published: January 2022

Aim

Phenotypes promoting dispersal over ecological timescales may have macroevolutionary consequences, such as long‐distance dispersal and diversification. However, whether dispersal traits explain the distribution of pantropical plant groups remains unclear. Here we reconstruct the biogeographical history of a tree clade to assess whether seed dispersal traits and biome‐switching explain the clade’s pantropical distribution.

Location

Pantropical.

Taxon

The Pterocarpus clade (Leguminosae/Fabaceae).

Methods

We sequenced 303 nuclear loci using target capture and generated a time‐calibrated phylogenomic tree. We also generated a corroborative time‐calibrated phylogenetic tree from data‐mined Sanger‐sequencing data. We then collated distribution data and seed dispersal morphology traits to compare trait‐dependent and trait‐independent biogeographical models, allowing us to infer whether dispersal traits influenced Pterocarpus’ spatio‐temporal evolution. Finally, using the results of these model tests, we estimated the ancestral ranges and biomes of Pterocarpus species to better understand their biogeographical history, and assessed the degree and direction of biome‐switching over the course of their diversification.

Results

We recovered well‐supported phylogenetic relationships within Pterocarpus, within which there were two subclades – one neotropical and the other palaeotropical. Our divergence date estimates suggested that Pterocarpus diversified from around 12 Ma, during the Miocene. Trait‐dependent biogeographical models were rejected for both range and biome evolution within Pterocarpus, but models including dispersal were supported. Pterocarpus’ ancestral node shared a range across the new‐world and old‐world tropics, followed by divergence into palaeotropical and neotropical clades. Biome‐switching occurred most frequently into rainforest and grassland.

Main conclusions

Our analyses suggest that Pterocarpus underwent infrequent cross‐continental dispersal and establishment into novel biomes. While this was minimally impacted by seed dispersal traits, biome‐switching following long‐distance dispersal and climate change have played an important role in diversification within Pterocarpus since the Miocene. Indeed, rare events of long‐distance dispersal likely explain the wide distributions of many pantropical plant species.
Are invasive species promoting yellowjacket invasion in Patagonia?
Authors: Masciocchi Maité , Villacide José M. , Buteler Micaela , Martínez Andrés S.
Published: January 2022

In recent decades, yellowjacket wasps, including Vespula vulgaris, have successfully been established in Patagonia. Additionally, the invasive willow Salix fragilis has also invaded areas next to watercourses, which in turn are typically colonized by the giant willow aphid (GWA, Tuberolagnus salignus), another invasive species. The honeydew exuded by the aphids has been reported to be used as a carbohydrate source by this social wasp. Our aim was to determine whether willows and GWA (invasive complex) on the stream shores promotes yellowjacket population growth. We worked under the hypothesis that GWA provides honeydew (i.e. carbohydrates) to yellowjackets, favouring nest growth and individual fitness. Our results indicate that habitats close (<200 m) to stream margins, where S. fragilis and GWA occur, contain not only a greater abundance of workers but also a higher nest density of V. vulgaris yellowjackets. Even though the nests were similar in size irrespective of the distance to the stream, weight, size and nutritional status of individuals suggest that foraging/nesting in proximity of the invasive complex promotes larger and better nurtured wasps, including reproductive castes, that in the long run could drive population growth and spread of the species in Patagonia. In this context, our study suggests that management of V. vulgaris populations should adopt strategies that encompass a broad approach, especially adopting new strategies designed to contemplate relevant multitrophic interactions between yellowjackets and invasive willows and aphids.
In vivo characterization of the threshold of laser‐induced optical breakdown (LIOB) of a fractional 1064 nm Nd:YAG picosecond laser by optical coherence tomography: A step forward to precision laser therapy
Authors: Wang Chao‐Chin
Published: January 2022

Background

Clinical endpoints serve as an important guide to physicians during laser treatment. However, there are no reliable clinical endpoints for the fractional picosecond laser‐induced optical breakdown (LIOB) whose threshold is dependent on the irradiance of the laser and epidermal melanin content of the skin treated.

Objectives

To determine the LIOB threshold in vivo of a 1064nm fractional picosecond laser for different skin colors.

Methods

A cellular‐level resolution optical coherence tomography (OCT) has successfully demonstrated that the in vivo morphological change of LIOB in the epidermis by a fractional picosecond laser. By measuring the melanin content in the area of the skin to treat using a skin imaging device, the physician would therefore be able to determine the threshold of LIOB visually under OCT for the skin of that particular melanin content.

Conclusion

The pilot study has demonstrated that OCT may serve as a non‐invasive modality to determine the thresholds of LIOB by a fractional picosecond laser. And the established correlation between melanin content and LIOB threshold in this pilot study may further guide physicians, that is, physicians may be able to predict the threshold of LIOB, without having to see the clinical endpoints, by simple measurement of melanin content of the skin to treat preoperatively.
Effects of some cosmetic dyes and pigments on the proliferation of human foreskin fibroblasts and cellular oxidative stress; potential cytotoxicity of chlorophyllin and indigo carmine on fibroblasts
Authors: Pasdaran Ardalan , Azarpira Negar , Heidari Reza , Nourinejad Simin , Zare Maryam , Hamedi Azadeh
Published: January 2022

Introduction

Fibroblasts and fibroblast‐like cells (FLCs) are highly distributed in the dermis layer of the skin and gastrointestinal tract. A few studies have investigated the effects of color additives of cosmetic products on human fibroblasts. Therefore, this in vitro study was conducted to investigate the effects of 9 synthetic and natural dyes (indigo carmine, carmine, sunset yellow, tropaeolin, acid green 25, chlorophyllin, tartrazine, lissamine, and amaranth) on human foreskin fibroblast cells.

Methods

MTT assay was applied to investigate the effects of dyes on human normal fibroblast cells. For investigating the possible mechanism of cytotoxicity, the effect of dyes was evaluated on parameters of cellular oxidative stress including lipid peroxidation and reactive oxygen species (ROS) as well as lactate dehydrogenase.

Results

In the MTT assay, a significant reduction (p ≤ 0.05) was observed in the viability of fibroblast cells by chlorophyllin and indigo carmine at concentrations higher than 10 and 100 (μg/ml), respectively. Acid green 25 caused a significant reduction at very high concentrations (1000 and 2000 μg/ml), which was not toxic. The effect of other investigated dyes was not significant on the fibroblasts. A trend in increased cell proliferation by amaranth and carmine was observed, but this enhancement was not statistically significant. No significant changes were observed in lipid peroxidation or lactate dehydrogenase. Chlorophyllin caused a significant increase in the production of cellular ROS.

Conclusions

Indigo carmine and chlorophyllin had cytotoxicity on human fibroblasts, and thus, further studies are required on their safety of use in cosmetics and pharmaceuticals.
Efficacy of handheld iontophoresis device in enhancing transdermal vitamin C delivery: A split‐face clinical trial
Authors: Yan Chadakan , Ng Janice Natasha C. , Wanitphakdeedecha Rungsima
Published: January 2022

Background

The stratum corneum of the epidermis is the principal barrier in topical drug delivery. Currently, iontophoresis is incorporated in dermatology management to increase transdermal drug delivery.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy and safety of handheld iontophoresis device in enhancing transdermal vitamin C delivery.

Methods

This was a prospective split‐face clinical trial with a total of 24 subjects, who presented with photoaging skin. All subjects were treated with the handheld iontophoresis device on the left side of their face, twice a week for 8 weeks. Primary outcomes were the improvement in pore tightening and skin hydration. Evaluations were done at baseline, 2‐, 4‐, 6‐, and 8‐week follow‐up. Subjects' self‐improvement scores and adverse reactions were also recorded.

Results

Out of 24 subjects, 17 (70.8%) completed the study protocol. Pore tightening in the iontophoresis group had significant improvement at 2‐ and 8‐week follow‐up when compared to the baseline (p = 0.019 and 0.026). Skin hydration on the iontophoresis group improved significantly at 4‐week follow‐up when compared to the baseline (p = 0.024). In the iontophoresis group, an image of the skin captured using Visioscan® showed improvement of skin texture and pore tightening at 8‐week follow‐up. Majority of the subjects in the iontophoresis group scored good improvement at 2‐, 4‐, and 6‐week follow‐up (41.7%, 29.2%, and 45.8%) when compared to the baseline. No adverse reactions were recorded.

Conclusion

The handheld iontophoresis device is safe and can be used as an adjunctive home treatment in enhancing transdermal vitamin C delivery.
Abdominal body shaping using StarFormer high‐intensity magnetic stimulation—A case series
Authors: Valdivia Roberto
Published: January 2022

Background

Magnetic stimulation of muscles has become a popular method for muscle toning and strengthening.

Aims

The aim of this case series was to investigate safety and effectiveness of a novel magnetic stimulation device.

Methods

The patients received 10 sessions of high‐intensity magnetic stimulation of their abdominal muscles. Change in muscle tone was determined by anonymous evaluation of photographs and using patient satisfaction questionnaires before treatment and 10 weeks following the last treatment session. Weight and waist circumference were also measured before treatment and at the 10‐week follow‐up.

Results

Blinded evaluation of photographs has shown improvement of the appearance of abdominal muscles. Patient satisfaction was high. The patients also experienced a reduction in their waist circumference, while their weight did not significantly change.

Conclusions

The treatment using the StarFormer® high‐intensity magnetic stimulation is an effective and noninvasive method for abdominal body shaping, which is safe and comfortable to the patients and results in high patient satisfaction and an objective improvement in abdominal body shape appearance.
Optimising health care for people living with chronic kidney disease: Health‐professional perspectives
Authors: Fildes Karen , Stefoska‐Needham Anita , Atkinson Josie , Lambert Kelly , Lee Anna , Pugh Debbie , Smyth Mikki , Turner Rebecca , Wallace Samantha , Nealon Jessica
Published: January 2022

Background

People with chronic kidney disease are often multimorbid and have complex psychosocial needs. For health professionals to deliver holistic, person‐centred care to individuals and their carers living with this multifaceted disease, they are required to communicate complex information and problem solve in a multifactorial health and disease context.

Objectives

To explore the perspectives and experiences of tertiary care multidisciplinary team members and primary care providers of health care to people with chronic kidney disease; identify opportunities to innovate and improve the coordinated delivery of health services.

Design

The qualitative study design used purposive sampling to recruit 39 health professionals, working in the primary and tertiary sector in a regional Australian health district. Participants included general practitioners, renal and general practice nurses, dietitians, nephrologists and social workers.

Approach

The data were collected through semistructured interviews and analysed using a relativist ontological position and directed content analysis approach. Analysis of interviews was undertaken by three independent researchers and key themes were derived via consensus.

Findings and Conclusions

A common goal to deliver person‐centred individualised care was evident among health care professionals. However a deficit in shared understanding of the disease within and between disciplines was identified. The complex nature of chronic kidney disease requires up‐skilling of health professionals to ensure patient education is targeted to individual health contexts and motivates self‐management. Improved communication and comprehension might best be achieved across disciplines with an integrated approach to delivery of primary health care to individuals living with early‐stage kidney disease.
Demand for social interactions: Evidence from the restaurant industry during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Wang Binzhe , Williams Matias , Duarte Fábio , Zheng Siqi
Published: January 2022

We study the heterogeneous impacts of COVID‐19 on restaurants in the postlockdown United States, from lens of social interactions. We use the data structure of chain restaurants to disentangle restaurant attributes such as food and service types (which vary across chains) and local market conditions such as infection risks (which vary with each establishment's geographical location). We find that visits to chains with higher social indices experienced larger drops as local new cases increased in 2020, but also faster recovery later when vaccination programs expanded. Moreover, demand for restaurants in city centers recovered faster than demand for those in suburbs.
Impact of justice‐related dispositions on support for cyber vigilantism: The mediating effect of perceived severity of transgression
Authors: Tan Wei Liang , Khader Majeed
Published: January 2022

The prevalence of cyber vigilantism during this COVID‐19 pandemic is an imminent issue that warrants our attention. However, there is a dearth of research regarding cyber vigilantism, especially from a personality perspective. Therefore, the current study aims to address this gap by examining the impact of justice‐related dispositions such as legal authoritarianism and observer sensitivity on support for cyber vigilantism. Additionally, perceived severity of transgression was examined as a potential mediator. A total of 647 Singaporean participants (Mage = 23.16 years, SDage = 4.97) completed an anonymous online survey. Mediation analysis revealed an indirect effect: Perceived severity of transgression served as a mediator in the path between justice‐related dispositions (i.e. legal authoritarianism and observer sensitivity) and support for cyber vigilantism, whereas there was no significant direct effect of justice‐related dispositions on support for cyber vigilantism. The overall model predicted support for cyber vigilantism modestly, accounting for approximately three per cent of the variance. Findings of this study have theoretical implications that may be beneficial for both academics and law enforcement.
Alcohol‐related hepatitis admissions increased 50% in the first months of the COVID‐19 pandemic in the USA
Authors: Gonzalez Humberto C. , Zhou Yueren , Nimri Faisal M. , Rupp Loralee B. , Trudeau Sheri , Gordon Stuart C.
Published: January 2022

Early reports suggest that alcohol misuse increased in 2020 as a result of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Using retrospective data from Henry Ford Health System in Detroit MI—an area that experienced an early and severe COVID‐19 outbreak—we investigated the impact of the pandemic on alcohol‐related liver disease (ARLD) in the summer of 2020 compared with the same period in 2016‐2019. Both the number of ARLD admissions and the proportion of total admissions represented by ARLD patients increased significantly in 2020 compared with previous years. The number of ARLD admissions as a proportion of all hospitalizations was 50% higher in 2020 than in 2016‐2019 (0.31% vs 0.21%; P = .0013); by September 2020, the number of admissions was 66% higher than previous years. Despite racial and geographical disparities in direct and indirect COVID‐related stressors across the Detroit metropolitan area, the demographic profile of ARLD patients did not change compared with previous years.
Fairness principles for insurance contracts in the presence of default risk
Authors: Coculescu Delia , Delbaen Freddy
Published: January 2022

We use the theory of cooperative games for the design of fair insurance contracts. An insurance contract needs to specify the premium to be paid and a possible participation in the benefit (or surplus) of the company. We suppose that a convex commonotonic premium functional is used to value the aggregated liability of the insurance company. It results from the analysis that when a contract is exposed to the default risk of the insurance company, ex‐ante equilibrium considerations require a certain participation in the benefit of the company to be specified in the contracts. The fair benefit participation of agents appears as an outcome of a game involving the residual risks induced by the default possibility and using fuzzy coalitions.
Confession in the Desert: Jean‐Luc Marion and the Vita of St. Mary of Egypt
Authors: Roumas Sarah N.
Published: January 2022

The Vita Mariae Aegyptiae of Sophronius of Jerusalem, a hagiography adopted into the Byzantine liturgical year, has received little scholarly attention to date. This article analyzes the Vita through Jean‐Luc Marion’s thought, revealing the nature of the relationships between Mary and Zosimas and recasting the Eucharistic theology of the narrative in Marion’s terms of givenness (donation). The Vita is presented with an eye to its phenomenological narrative envelope and its interpersonal relations placed in Marion’s framework of the self‐other‐God triple doubled relationship. The Vita, narrating the relationship between a monk and a saintly woman, adds to Marion’s thought the picture of conversion taking place via a face‐to‐face confessio relationship narrated for the nameless alii. Further, the Vita’s treatment of the Eucharist places Marion’s twin concepts of sacrifice and givenness within a liturgical framework which completes the confessio, while Mary herself plays a feminine role challenging Marion’s understanding of the father.
Toward a new world order and ideas of mass destruction
Authors: Mehdi Syed Sikander
Published: January 2022

Preparation to draw the roadmap for the post‐pandemic world has already begun. Different power centers, leading research institutes, universities, and media houses have been organizing seminars and conferences and sponsoring research studies on the power and resourcefulness of the new world order to meet the challenges of the arriving future. In this context, the traditional approach focuses on the future of US‐China relations after COVID‐19 and its impact on the world at large. However, the world has undergone a sea change. Everything has been unsettled by COVID‐19. The credibility of the great powers has suffered enormously from their inability to save the world from capitulation. Worse still, for the global population of over 7 billion, the world virtually became a global prison. It is therefore likely that the post‐pandemic world order will be significantly different from the past world orders, and that a number of the settled rules of the game will be challenged. Perhaps the time has arrived to study and discuss the current and emerging threats, keeping in view the deadly consequences of ignoring the ideas of mass destruction any longer—and to devise strategies to diminish their role in the making and unmaking of world orders. It seems that the role of peace educators and scholars in the post‐pandemic period will be more significant than ever before, and the arriving world order will immensely benefit from new knowledge, new ideas, and new perspectives that they offer.
Non‐Propositional Regulation☆
Authors: Lorini Giuseppe , Moroni Stefano
Published: January 2022

When thinking about how human behaviour is regulated, one generally imagines a regulation consisting of norms linguistically expressed in sentences: that is, “sentential deontic regulation”. However, this notion of regulation is reductive because there are (non‐deontic and) non‐sentential forms of regulation. In this article, we do not restrict our investigation to (non‐deontic and) non‐sentential forms of regulation; we examine whether there are forms of (non‐deontic) regulation that are even not propositional. In this regard, we advance the hypothesis that there are indeed cases of “non‐propositional regulation”: that is, regulation that does not need propositions and propositional contents.
A review on the potential effects of temperature on fungicide effectiveness
Authors: Juroszek Peter , Laborde Marie , Kleinhenz Benno , Mellenthin Marina , Racca Paolo , Sierotzki Helge
Published: January 2022

Fungicides are one possible way to manage fungal and oomycete plant pathogens in order to safeguard yield and quality of crops and to improve shelf‐life of produce in agriculture and horticulture. However, global warming and the resulting temperature increase may affect the effectiveness of some important fungicides, including efficacy and duration of plant disease control. Nevertheless, according to our literature survey, there is little specific information available on whether and how temperature influences the effectiveness of fungicides. The very few publications that show specific data are summarized herein. Specific data are mainly gained under controlled conditions, both based on in vitro and in planta experiments. Field data are more or less missing. Most researchers assume that indirect effects of temperature on fungicide efficacy are particularly important. For example, temperature effects on pathogen spore germination and hyphal growth (optimal versus sub‐ and supra‐optimal), whereby optimal temperature conditions can improve pathogen fitness, thereby increasing the tolerance of pathogens to fungicides. Presumably, these indirect effects are often more important than the direct effects of temperature on fungicide performance. However, the data needed to prove this assumption are lacking. Therefore, it would be beneficial to conduct more in‐depth laboratory, greenhouse and field experiments in order to investigate the potential direct and indirect influence of temperature on the effectiveness of important fungicides. This would enable the establishment of appropriate recommendations for fungicide use in an increasingly warmer world and would assist the development of future fungicide solutions, based on improved knowledge.
Wheat stem rust recorded for the first time in decades in Ireland
Authors: Tsushima Ayako , Lewis Clare M. , Flath Kerstin , Kildea Stephen , Saunders Diane G. O.
Published: January 2022

Wheat stem rust, caused by the fungus Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt), occurs in most wheat‐growing areas worldwide, and, in western Europe since 2013, has started to re‐emerge after many decades of absence. Following this trend across western Europe, in 2020, we also detected and recorded wheat stem rust for the first time in five decades in experimental plots across five locations in Ireland. To examine the potential origin of the Irish Pgt infection in 2020, we carried out transcriptome sequencing on 12 Pgt‐infected wheat samples collected across Ireland and compared these to 76 global P. graminis isolates. This analysis identified a close genetic relationship between the Irish Pgt isolates and those from Ethiopia collected in 2015 after a severe stem rust epidemic caused by the TKTTF Pgt race, and with the UK‐01 Pgt isolate that was previously assigned to the TKTTF race. Subsequent pathology‐based race profiling designated two Irish isolates and recent UK and French Pgt isolates to the TKTTF Pgt race group. This suggests that the Irish Pgt occurrence most probably originated from recent long‐distance windborne dispersal of Pgt urediniospores from neighbouring countries in Europe where we confirmed the Pgt TKTTF race continues to be prevalent. The identification of wheat stem rust in Ireland at multiple locations in 2020 illustrates that the disease can occur in Ireland and emphasizes the need to re‐initiate local monitoring for this re‐emergent threat to wheat production across western Europe.
Nonlinear spatial innovation spillovers and regional open innovation: evidence from China
Authors: Wang Shuai , Shi Xing , Wang Ting , Hong Jin
Published: February 2022

This paper examines the spatial innovation spillovers in different distance ranges in China. Results indicate that innovation spillovers do not decay with distance monotonously but appear to be a concave curve. Spatial innovation spillovers are superimposed effects, including both the positive effects of knowledge diffusion and the crowding‐out effects of innovation resources and market rivalry. We also confirm that the regional open innovation can positively regulate such spillovers. Regions with higher intensity of open innovation could gain more substantial benefits from innovation spillovers. These findings provide manifold policy implications for reducing the inequality of regional innovation capacity.