bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
(E,E)-1,1′-[1,2-Bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane-1,2-diyl]bis(phenyldiazene) revisited: threefold configurational disorder of (S,S), (R,R) and (S,R) isomers, a detailed critique
Authors: Parkin Sean , Glidewell Christopher , Horton Peter N.
Published: February 2023

Crystal structures described as concomitant triclinic (I) and monoclinic (II) polymorphs of meso-(E,E)-1,1′-[1,2-bis(4-chlorophenyl)ethane-1,2-diyl]bis(phenyldiazene) [Mohamed et al. (2016). Acta Cryst. C72, 57–62] have been re-investigated. The published model for II was distorted due to forcing the symmetry of space group C2/c on an incomplete structure model. It is shown here to be a likely three-component superposition of S,S and R,R enantiomers with a lesser amount of the meso form. A detailed analysis of how the improbable distortion in the published model aroused suspicion and the subsequent construction of undistorted chemically and crystallographically plausible alternatives having the symmetry of Cc and C2/c is presented. For the sake of completeness, an improved model for the triclinic P-1 structure of the meso isomer I, revised to include a minor disorder component, is also given.
The imperfections of employee involvement: harnessing the consequences of involvement practices on psychosocial risks at work
Authors: Palumbo Rocco , Hinna Alessandro , Decastri Maurizio
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Involving employees in making management decisions is a powerful way to enhance organizational performance. However, employee involvement (EI) might exacerbate psychosocial stress at work. This paper aims to investigate this issue, illuminating the implications of EI on work-related stress.

Design/methodology/approach

Secondary data were collected from the third wave of the European Survey of Enterprises on New and Emerging Risks. A conditional process analysis based on ordinary least square regression and bootstrap sampling was accomplished to obtain evidence of the implications of EI on psychosocial risks (PSR) at work, taking into consideration the mediating role of organizational health promotion initiatives (HPI).

Findings

EI increased the sources of psychosocial stress at work, adding to individual job demands. Involving employees was positively related to a greater organizational concern for HPI, which, in turn, lessened psychosocial strain.

Practical implications

Although it contributes to organizational performance, EI propels work-related stress, which undermines individual and collective wellbeing. Involvement practices should be coupled with tailored HPI to address the PSR at work triggered by involvement, empowering people to cope with strain.

Originality/value

Scientific literature emphasizes the positive implications of EI on organizational performance, but little is known about its side effects on work-related stress. The paper provides original insights into this topic, arguing that HPI are necessitated to address the drawback of involvement on work-related stress.
Stalking: Issues of deterrence “When I was stalking, I was so dedicated to it. Nothing would stop me. It was my focus.”
Authors: Wheatley Rachael , Henley Sara , Farnham Frank
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to present issues of deterrence related to stalking.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors have combined recent mixed method research findings and existing general deterrence literature with their practitioner experiences of working with this population, to provide a novel viewpoint paper intending to influence advancements in knowledge in this area.

Findings

Recent qualitative research investigating the function of stalking in a small sample (see Wheatleyet al., 2020a) noted the participants’ focus on the lack of deterrence. For example, participants described feeling emotionally stuck in their pursuits, experiencing poor access to help and support, being ignorant of the potential custodial consequences of their offending and even stating that imprisonment provided a harsh yet necessary moment of reality.

Originality/value

This novel discussion paper reviews these findings in relation to both the available research based on deterrence generally and deterrence related to stalking and the experience of working with stalking cases in clinical practice. This paper explores what we know about the motivations that underlie stalking behaviour and how that relates to the effectiveness of deterrence, including the role of traditional criminal justice approaches to this type of offending.
A framework of open government data (OGD) e-service quality dimensions with future research agenda
Authors: Alexopoulos Charalampos , Saxena Stuti , Rizun Nina , Shao Deo
Published: February 2023

Purpose

This research paper aims to present a framework of open government data (OGD) relating to e-service quality dimensions. In addition, it provides a research agenda for the e-service delivery of OGD.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review pertaining to e-service quality with special reference to e-government was delivered to deduce the key dimensions of e-service quality for OGD.

Findings

Five e-service quality dimensions of OGD are identified in the study; website design, fulfilment, service provision to the user while interfacing with the OGD Web portal, service provision to the user during and after the value-creation and innovation period and security/privacy. To further OGD re-use for value creation and innovation, it is important that the e-service quality dimensions are built into all OGD programmes by public authorities.

Originality/value

Hitherto, extant research has focused on the data quality dimensions of OGD, but the dimensions linked with e-service have not been explored. This study seeks to fill this gap and, in addition, suggests further research requirements in this field.
Linkages between natural gas, fertiliser and cereal prices: A note
Authors: Vatsa Puneet , Miljkovic Dragan , Baek Jungho
Published: February 2023

We use structural vector autoregressions to analyse the dynamic effects of shocks to natural gas and nitrogenous fertiliser prices on three major cereal crops: maize, rice and wheat. We find that the response of cereal prices to natural gas and fertiliser price shocks has been relatively small, instantaneous and transitory. These findings suggest that crop prices may change rapidly in response to energy and fertiliser prices, even when there are no shifts in the underlying fundamentals in crop markets. Furthermore, because the effects of the shocks dissipate rather quickly, short‐term measures to address swings in food prices may suffice.
Application of chickpea‐based edible coating with chickpea husk polyphenols on the preservation of sunflower seeds
Authors: Camiletti Ornella F. , Bergesse Antonella E. , Aleman Rebeca , Riveros Cecilia G. , Grosso Nelson R.
Published: February 2023

The objective of this study was to evaluate the protective effect of a chickpea‐based edible coating with the addition of polyphenols on the chemical, microbiological, and sensory quality of roasted sunflower seeds throughout storage. Four different samples were prepared: roasted sunflower seeds (control sample, SF‐C), roasted sunflower seeds with BHT (SF‐BHT), roasted sunflower seeds with chickpea‐based coating (SF‐CCs), and roasted sunflower seeds with chickpea‐based coating with chickpea polyphenolic extract (SF‐CCPE). The samples were stored for 60 days at room temperature, and their chemical, microbiological, and sensory parameters were analyzed. The acceptability of fresh samples was also studied. The use of chickpea‐based coatings retarded the lipid oxidation process efficiently, but the inclusion of chickpea polyphenols in the coating enhanced the protective effect. At 60th day of storage, no statistically significant differences were found between SF‐CCPE and SF‐BHT in relation to peroxides and conjugated dienes values, saturated/unsaturated ratio, and hexanal content. Linoleic acid content was reduced significantly more in SF‐CCs than SF‐CCPE. The addition of chickpea coating with chickpea antioxidants did not modify the flavor of the sunflower seeds and was the most accepted treatment by the consumer. The formation of undesirable flavors (cardboard and oxidized) was less in SF‐CC, SF‐CCPE, and SF‐BHT without finding significant differences between these treatments. None of the samples presented microbiological contamination or an increase in bacteria, yeast, and molds during storage. The chickpea‐based coating was able to retard lipid oxidation in roasted sunflower seeds, proving to be a good alternative as a natural method to preserve foods with high lipid content.

Practical Application

Discarded chickpeas and chickpea husks constitute byproducts from the chickpea industry. The grain husks are currently discarded or marketed at a very low cost, constituting a novel residue with antioxidant properties. Considering the growing interest in sustainability and the circular economy, this investigation proposes the utilization of nutritional materials to prepare edible coatings. The chickpea‐based coatings loaded with polyphenol extract (obtained from the husk of chickpea) demonstrated to have a protective effect against lipid oxidation process in sunflower seeds, which represent a good alternative to be used for the food industry to increase the shelf life of lipid foods.
Depletion of Tgfbr2 in hepatocytes alleviates liver fibrosis and restores hepatic function in fibrotic mice
Authors: Liu Shu Qing , Deng Xing , Zhu Chang Peng , Cui Ya Lu , Xie Wei Fen , Zhang Xin
Published: February 2023

Objectives

Previous studies have demonstrated the pivotal role of transforming growth factor (TGF)‐β signaling in activating hepatic stellate cells during liver fibrosis. In this study we aimed to demonstrate the effects and underlying mechanism of TGF‐β signaling in hepatocytes on hepatic fibrogenesis.

Methods

Hepatocyte‐specific Tgfbr2‐knockout (Tgfbr2HKO) mice were generated by AAV8‐TBG‐Cre injection via the tail vein of Tgfbr2f/f mice. CCl4 was injected intraperitoneally twice a week for 4 weeks to establish the fibrotic mouse model. The expression of the fibrogenesis markers was evaluated by immunohistochemistry, western blot, and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR). RNA‐seq analysis was used to detect the transcriptional profiles of primary hepatocytes isolated from Tgfbr2HKO mice and control mice.

Results

The expression of TβR2 (Tgfbr2) was markedly upregulated in hepatocytes of the fibrotic liver. Tgfbr2 depletion in hepatocytes decreased the expressions of profibrogenic markers (Col1a1 and Acta2) in the CCl4‐treated fibrotic liver. RNA‐seq analysis revealed that Tgfbr2 deletion in hepatocytes significantly reduced the inflammatory response and suppressed epithelial–mesenchymal transition of hepatocytes accompanied by upregulation of the metabolic pathways during liver fibrosis. Moreover, the expressions of hepatocyte nuclear factors (HNFs), including Hnf4α, Foxa1, Foxa2, and Foxa3, which are important for maintaining liver metabolism and homeostasis, were decreased in fibrotic livers and significantly increased after Tgfbr2 blockade.

Conclusion

Blocking the TGF‐β signaling pathway in hepatocytes reduces hepatic fibrosis and improves hepatic function in fibrotic livers.
Storing power: market structure matters
Authors: Andrés‐Cerezo David , Fabra Natalia
Published: February 2023

We assess how firms' incentives to operate and invest in energy storage depend on the market structure. For this purpose, we characterize equilibrium market outcomes allowing for market power in storage and/or production, as well as for vertical integration between storage and production. Market power reduces overall efficiency through two channels: It induces an inefficient use of the storage facilities, and it distorts investment incentives. The worst outcome for consumers and total welfare occurs under vertical integration. The results are key to understanding how to regulate energy storage, an issue which is critical for the deployment of renewable energies.
Functional correlates of neurological soft signs in heavy cannabis users
Authors: Wolf Robert Christian , Werler Florian , Schmitgen Mike M. , Wolf Nadine D. , Wittemann Miriam , Reith Wolfgang , Hirjak Dusan
Published: February 2023

Sensorimotor dysfunction has been previously reported in persons with cannabis dependence. Such individuals can exhibit increased levels of neurological soft signs (NSS), particularly involving motor coordination, sensorimotor integration and complex motor task performance. Abnormal NSS levels can also be detected in non‐dependent individuals with heavy cannabis use (HCU), yet very little is known about the functional correlates underlying such deficits. Here, we used resting‐state functional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to investigate associations between NSS and intrinsic neural activity (INA) in HCU (n = 21) and controls (n = 26). Compared with controls, individuals with HCU showed significantly higher NSS across all investigated subdomains. Three of these subdomains, that is, motor coordination, sensorimotor integration and complex motor task behaviour, were associated with specific use‐dependent variables, particularly age of onset of cannabis use and current cannabis use. Between‐group comparisons of INA revealed lower regional homogeneity (ReHo) in left precentral gyrus, left inferior occipital gyrus, right triangular pat of the inferior frontal gyrus and right precentral gyrus in HCU compared with controls. In addition, HCU showed also higher ReHo in right cerebellum and left postcentral gyrus compared with controls. Complex motor task behaviour in HCU was significantly related to INA in postcentral, inferior frontal and occipital cortices. Our findings indicate abnormal ReHo in HCU in regions associated with sensorimotor, executive control and visuomotor‐integration processes. Importantly, we show associations between ReHo, cannabis‐use behaviour and execution of complex motor tasks. Given convergent findings in manifest psychotic disorders, this study suggests an HCU endophenotype that may present with a cumulative risk for psychosis.
Incentive mechanisms to exploit intraseasonal price arbitrage opportunities for smallholder farmers: Experimental evidence from Malawi
Authors: Nindi Tabitha , Ricker‐Gilbert Jacob , Bauchet Jonathan
Published: February 2023

Seasonal commodity price fluctuations can potentially offer farmers arbitrage opportunities to increase their income. However, smallholder farmers in most of sub‐Saharan Africa often do not exploit these opportunities to the fullest extent possible. To inform this issue, we conducted a randomized controlled trial among 1739 smallholder farmers in Malawi to estimate the impact of two key post‐harvest constraints, lack of appropriate storage technology and commitment issues, on farmers' legume storage and sales decisions. The treated groups received (i) an improved storage technology in the form of two hermetic (airtight) bags, (ii) the same improved storage technology under the condition that farmers store collectively with members of their farmer club in their village, and/or (iii) the improved storage technology under the condition that farmers store collectively at a centralized association warehouse. We analyzed the impacts of these treatments on storage behavior and revenue from sales. Results indicated that addressing the technological and commitment constraints simultaneously had the largest average impacts. One year after the intervention, farmers offered hermetic bags and the village storage program (Treatment 2) stored 24% more legumes at harvest, stored 27% longer, received a 3% higher price for their legumes and ultimately made 12% more on average than farmers in the control group. Farmers in that treatment also improved some (but not all) outcomes compared to farmers in other treatment groups. These findings suggest that combining technology with collective action that is localized and flexible can lead to better post‐harvest outcomes for smallholder farmers.
Equity preferences and abatement cost sharing in international environmental agreements
Authors: Börger Tobias , Hanley Nick , Johnston Robert J. , Meginnis Keila , Ndebele Tom , Ali Siyal Ghamz E. , de Vries Frans
Published: February 2023

This paper examines empirically the importance of equity preferences for the formation of international environmental agreements (IEA) for transboundary pollution control. Although it has been shown theoretically that the existence of equity preferences among countries considering an IEA increases the chances for formation and stability of a coalition, empirical assessments of such preferences have been limited to climate change mitigation and single‐country studies. We consider the case of marine plastic pollution, of which a large share consists of food and beverage containers, representing a transboundary pollution control problem of increasing policy concern, with properties that lead to distinct considerations for equity and the sharing of abatement costs. We employ a coordinated choice experiment in the United Kingdom and United States to assess preferences for abatement‐cost allocations in a marine plastics IEA. Pairs of cooperating countries and the relative allocation of abatement costs are varied experimentally. Results show systematic aversion to both advantageous and disadvantageous inequality with respect to abatement costs but also that the relative strength of advantageous and disadvantageous inequality aversion differs across countries. Across both countries, there is evidence that left‐leaning voters generally favor more equal international sharing of abatement costs. Differences of these results from the case of greenhouse gas emission reduction, and implications for current efforts to establish a legally binding global treaty on marine plastic pollution, are discussed.
Effects on neonatal immunoglobulin concentrations by infant mode of delivery in the upstate KIDS study (2008–2010)
Authors: Adeyeye Temilayo E. , Jones Laura E. , Yeung Edwina , Mendola Pauline , Lawrence David A. , Lin Shao , Bell Erin M.
Published: February 2023

Problem

Previous studies document an association between mode of delivery (MOD) and allergic conditions in children. Immunoglobulin (Ig) concentrations at birth may play a role. The goal of this study is to assess the impact of MOD on Ig concentrations at delivery from newborn dried blood spots (DBS).

Method of study

The Upstate KIDS Study (2008–2010) is a prospective cohort of mother‐child pairs recruited from New York State, excluding New York City. Ig subtypes IgA, IgE, IgG1, IgG2, IgG3, IgG4, and IgM were measured in residual NDBS from the Newborn Screening Program (N = 3274 infants). MOD was categorized as vaginal delivery (VD), emergency cesarean delivery (ECD) or planned cesarean delivery (PCD). Associations between MOD and Ig levels were assessed using ANOVA and multiple regression, with models adjusted for gestational age, birth weight, maternal race, plurality, and smoking status.

Results

IgA, and the IgG subtypes IgG3 and IgG4 were found to be significantly lower in PCD neonates relative to VD neonates in adjusted regression models: 3.57 mg/ml, (95% CI: 3.51, 3.63) compared to 3.64 mg/ml (95% CI: 3.59, 3.69); 8.95 ng/ml (95% CI: 8.88,9.03) compared to 9.03 ng/ml (95% CI: 8.98, 9.08) and 8.05 ng/ml (95% CI: 7.91, 8.20) compared to 8.22 ng/ml (95% CI: 7.91,8.20), respectively.

Conclusions

MOD may thus be related to neonatal immune profile. Results were found to be robust to sensitivity testing based on maternal complications and indication for CD.

Clinical implications are unclear given the small levels of association found in newborns, but the result suggests greater susceptibility to infection, and further study is warranted.
Mifepristone priming and subsequent misoprostol for second trimester medical abortion in women with previous caesarean delivery
Authors: Dickinson Jan E. , Doherty Dorota A.
Published: February 2023

Aims

To assess clinical outcomes and complications in women with ≥1 prior caesarean delivery (CS) during mid‐pregnancy medical abortion with misoprostol following mifepristone priming.

Materials and Methods

Retrospective analysis of abortions at 13–28 weeks gestation using sequential mifepristone and misoprostol at a single centre from 1/2008–12/2018. Procedural outcomes were compared between cases with no prior CS, one prior and ≥2 prior CS.

Results

There were 1399 consecutive women who underwent a medical abortion, with 304 (21.7%) having ≥1 prior lower segment CS (241 one, 49 two, 12 three, one four) and one a prior classical CS. Median gestation was 19 weeks (interquartile range (IQR) 17–21) among nulliparas, multiparas with no prior CS and multiparas with prior CS, P = 0.505. Compared with nulliparas (median procedural duration 10.8 h, IQR 7.5–16.5; adjusted hazards ratio (aHR) = 1.20 95%CI 1.04–1.40, P = 0.015), multiparas with prior CS had a shorter procedural duration (9.5 h, IQR 6.5–13.5) while multiparas with no CS had the shortest duration (7.0 h, IQR 5.0–9.8; aHR = 2.28 95%CI 2.01–2.58, P < 0.001). Complications were more frequent with prior CS: estimated blood loss (medians: 100 cc no CS vs 150 cc ≥1 CS, P = 0.002), blood loss >1000 cc (3.6% no CS vs 7.2% ≥1 CS; odds ratio (OR) = 2.11 95%CI 1.23–3.62, P = 0.007) and placental retention (17.3% no CS vs 25.3% ≥1 CS; adjusted OR = 1.44 95%CI 1.05–1.99, P = 0.024). Uterine rupture occurred in 4/304 women with ≥1 prior CS (1.3%).

Conclusions

Mifepristone‐misoprostol abortion in women with prior CS is generally safe but associated with an increased risk of procedural complications. Lowering of the misoprostol dosage with prior CS may reduce uterine rupture, although this hypothesis requires ongoing research.
The role of screening colonoscopy after appendicitis in patients over 40 years of age
Authors: Jolly Samantha , McCullough Timothy , Gunning Thomas , Maddern Guy , Wichmann Matthias
Published: February 2023

Background

There is some evidence of the association between acute appendicitis and colorectal neoplasm in patients over the age of 40 years. Despite this, few centres routinely evaluate the colon endoscopically following an episode of appendicitis in these patients. Our aim was to investigate the incidence of colorectal neoplasm in patients aged 40 years and over who underwent screening colonoscopy following acute appendicitis.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of patients aged 40 years and over who were diagnosed with acute appendicitis via imaging or histology between January 2015 and May 2022. Findings on subsequent screening colonoscopy were evaluated and classified according to adenomatous and non‐adenomatous lesions.

Results

A total of 176 patients met inclusion criteria, with a median age of 54 years (range 40–92) and female to male ratio of 1:1.3. One hundred patients (56%) had a colonoscopy following their admission, at a mean duration of 3.5 months post discharge. 15% of patients had an adenomatous polyp detected (10 adenomas, 4 advanced adenomas, and 1 sessile serrated adenoma), and 9% had a non‐adenomatous lesion detected (8 hyperplastic polyps and 1 lipoma).

Conclusion

Adenoma detection rate in patients aged 40 years and over undergoing colonoscopy after acute appendicitis was 15% in our cohort. This high adenoma detection rate supports the view of appendicitis as an indication for screening faecal immunochemical testing or colonoscopy in patients above 40 years.
Improvised Hybridity in the “Fixing” of Chinese Infrastructure Capital: The Case of Kenya's Standard Gauge Railway
Authors: Huang Zhengli , Lesutis Gediminas
Published: February 2023

The article explores the role of state‐owned enterprises (SOEs) in the globalisation of China's infrastructure capital. Examining how accumulation strategies of Chinese SOEs are driven by a complex set of political and economic, state and private, interests, it foregrounds the inherently hybrid nature of China's state capitalism. We use Kenya's Standard Gauge Railway (SGR) as a case study to analyse how state infrastructure capital traverses borders, and the specific ways that contradictions of accumulation in China are relocated through the improvised hybridity of SOEs. In Kenya, China Road and Bridge Corporation, the main SGR contractor, shifted and adapted its strategies as the pursuit of economic productivity gave way to political priorities in China, simultaneously responding to changing socio‐political circumstances in Kenya and across East Africa. Analysing these dynamics, we highlight the contingencies of, and limitations to, structural reorganisation of actually existing forms of state capitalism in China and beyond.
Single dose tocilizumab for COVID‐19 associated cytokine storm syndrome: Less is more
Authors: Boone Niels W. , Moes Dirk Jan A. R. , Ramiro Sofia , Mostard Remy L. M. , Magro‐Checa Cesar , van Dongen Christel M. P. , Gronenschild Michiel , van Haren Eric , Buijs Jacqueline , de Vries Annick , Peeters Ralph , Landewé Robert B. M. , Wong Dennis R.
Published: February 2023

Aims

We aim to evaluate the clinical pharmacokinetics of a single dose interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) antibody tocilizumab (TCZ) in methylprednisolone (MP)‐treated COVID‐19 patients with cytokine storm syndrome (CSS).

Methods

MP pre‐treated patients with COVID‐19‐associated CSS, defined as at least two elevations of C‐reactive protein (CRP) >100 mg/L, ferritin >900 μg/L or D‐dimers >1500 μg/L, received intravenous TCZ (8 mg/kg, max. 800 mg) upon clinical deterioration. A nonlinear‐mixed effects model was developed based on TCZ serum concentrations and dosing information. Population pharmacokinetic parameters were estimated and concentration–time profiles were plotted against individual predicted values. Fixed dose simulations were subsequently performed based on the final model.

Results

In total 40 patients (mean [SD] age: 62 [12] years, 20% female, body weight: 87 [17] kg) with COVID‐19 induced CSS were evaluated on pharmacokinetics and laboratory parameters. A biphasic elimination of TCZ serum concentration was described by a homogeneous population pharmacokinetic model. Serum TCZ concentrations above the 1 μg/L target saturation threshold were covered for 16 days in all evaluated patients treated with a single dose of 8 mg/kg. In a simulation with TCZ 400 mg fixed dose, this condition of full IL‐6 receptor occupancy at minimum serum concentration was also met.

Conclusions

A single dose (8 mg/kg, max. 800 mg) is sufficient to cover a period of 16 days of IL‐6‐mediated hyperinflammation in COVID‐19‐induced CSS in MP‐treated patients. Based on body weight PK simulations, a fixed‐dose tocilizumab of 400 mg should be considered to prevent overtreatment, future drug shortage and unnecessary drug expenditure.
The promises and limitations of codes of medical ethics as instruments of policy change
Authors: Komparic Ana , Garon‐Sayegh Patrick , Bensimon Cécile M.
Published: February 2023

Codes of medical ethics (codes) are part of a longstanding tradition in which physicians publicly state their core values and commitments to patients, peers, and the public. However, codes are not static. Using the historical evolution of the Canadian Medical Association's Code of Ethics as an illustrative case, we argue that codes are living, socio‐historically situated documents that comprise a mix of prescriptive and aspirational content. Reflecting their socio‐historical situation, we can expect the upheaval of the COVID‐19 pandemic to prompt calls to revise codes. Indeed, Alex John London has argued in favour of specific modifications to the World Medical Association's International Code of Medical Ethics (which has since been revised) in light of moral and scientific failures that occurred during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Responding to London, we address the more general question: should codes be modified to reflect lessons drawn from the COVID‐19 pandemic or future such upheavals? We caution that codes face limitations as instruments of policy change because they are inherently interpretive and ‘multivocal’, that is, they usually underdetermine or provide more than one answer to the question, ‘What should I do now?’ Nonetheless, as both prescriptive and aspirational documents, codes also serve as tools for reflection and deliberation—collective practices that are necessary to engaging with and addressing the moral and scientific uncertainties inherent to medicine.
Finding Influential Subjects in a Network Using a Causal Framework
Authors: Lee Youjin , Buchanan Ashley L. , Ogburn Elizabeth L. , Friedman Samuel R. , Halloran M. Elizabeth , Katenka Natallia V. , Wu Jing , Nikolopoulos Georgios K.
Published: February 2023

Researchers across a wide array of disciplines are interested in finding the most influential subjects in a network. In a network setting, intervention effects and health outcomes can spill over from one node to another through network ties, and influential subjects are expected to have a greater impact than others. For this reason, network research in public health has attempted to maximize health and behavioral changes by intervening on a subset of influential subjects. Although influence is often defined only implicitly in most of the literature, the operative notion of influence is inherently causal in many cases: influential subjects are those we should intervene on to achieve the greatest overall effect across the entire network. In this work, we define a causal notion of influence using potential outcomes. We review existing influence measures, such as node centrality, that largely rely on the particular features of the network structure and/or on certain diffusion models that predict the pattern of information or diseases spreads through network ties. We provide simulation studies to demonstrate when popular centrality measures can agree with our causal measure of influence. As an illustrative example, we apply several popular centrality measures to the HIV risk network in the Transmission Reduction Intervention Project and demonstrate the assumptions under which each centrality can represent the causal influence of each participant in the study.
A novel sorbicillinoid compound as a potent anti‐inflammation agent through inducing NLRP3 protein degradation
Authors: Wang Fangfang , Zhang Meng , Yuan Meng , Xia Zixuan , Yang Fengge , Zhang Sihao , Lin Tengyu , Luo Lianxiang , Tang Jinshan , Zhang Youwei
Published: February 2023

Background and Purpose

Chronic inflammation is pathogenic and contributes to human diseases, causing a significant threat to public health. The NLR family pyrin domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) is the best‐characterized factor regulating inflammation. Therefore, targeting NLRP3 has the potential to treat inflammatory diseases and improve human health.

Experimental Approach

Lipopolysaccharide was used to induce inflammation in cell cultures. Lipopolysaccharide/d‐galactosamine and dextran sulfate sodium salt were used to induce acute liver inflammation and ulcerative colitis respectively in C57BL/6J mice. Western blotting, immunofluorescence, immunoprecipitation, quantitative PCR and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) were used to evaluate the activation of the inflammatory response in cell cultures and in mice.

Key Results

JNUTS013, a novel sorbicillinoid compound recently synthesized by us, significantly inhibited inflammation both in cell cultures and in mouse models. Mechanistically, JNUTS013 induced proteasome‐dependent degradation of NLRP3. Hence, it suppressed the formation of the NLRP3 inflammasome and the production of downstream inflammatory cytokines and chemokines. The inhibitory effect of JNUTS013 on NLRP3 protein expression was confirmed in mice. Importantly, JNUTS013 failed to ameliorate bowel inflammation in Nlrp3‐/‐ knockout mice, supporting NLRP3 as the biological target by which JNUTS013 inhibits inflammation. Further studies revealed critical chemical moieties of JNUTS013 required for inducing NLRP3 degradation.

Conclusion and Implications

This study identifies a novel compound JNUTS013 that inhibits inflammation through inducing NLRP3 protein degradation in vitro and in vivo, which not only supports the development of JNUTS013 as an anti‐inflammation agent but also creates a new way for the treatment of inflammation by chemically inducing NLRP3 degradation.
Cytomorphological spectrum of pilomatricoma – A series of 28 cases
Authors: Ahuja Sana , Zaheer Sufian
Published: February 2023

Background

Pilomatricoma is a benign tumour that originates in the outer sheath of the hair follicle root. The clinical diagnosis of this rare entity is often missed, possibly due to a lack of awareness. Its characteristic cytomorphological features are sheets of ghost cells, basaloid cells, calcification and foreign body giant cell reaction. However, the above features may not all be present in all cases, rendering cytological diagnosis difficult.

Materials and Methods

This retrospective study included all cases of pilomatricoma diagnosed on fine needle aspiration over a period of 4 years. The histopathological diagnosis was retrieved for the cases wherever possible. A detailed histopathological and cytological evaluation was performed for the various components—basaloid cells, ghost cells, calcified debris, foreign body giant cells, bare nuclei, neutrophils, and macrophages—and they were graded on a scale of 0 to 3+.

Results

The 28 cases included 8 female and 20 male patients with a mean age of 34.6 years. Most cases (22 cases; 78.6%) were located in the head and neck, with the scalp being the most common site. Twenty‐five cases were cytologically diagnosed as pilomatricoma based on a variable admixture of the various components—nests of basaloid cells, ghost cells, foreign body giant cell reaction, calcified debris and viable squamous cells.

However, in two cases which showed an absence of basaloid cells, a differential diagnosis of epidermal inclusion cyst was also included. Another case showed a predominance of basaloid cells with a paucity of ghost cells, so a differential diagnosis of adnexal tumour was also included. Among all the cytological parameters, sheets of ghost cells followed by nests of basaloid cells and foreign body giant cell reaction had the highest sensitivity in the cytological diagnosis of pilomatricoma.

Conclusion

The presence of sheets of ghost cells is the most sensitive parameter for the cytological diagnosis of pilomatricoma. It is important that pilomatricoma should be considered in the differential diagnosis of subcutaneous masses, particularly in the head and neck region.
Machine learning for non‐invasive sensing of hypoglycaemia while driving in people with diabetes
Authors: Lehmann Vera , Zueger Thomas , Maritsch Martin , Kraus Mathias , Albrecht Caroline , Bérubé Caterina , Feuerriegel Stefan , Wortmann Felix , Kowatsch Tobias , Styger Naïma , Lagger Sophie , Laimer Markus , Fleisch Elgar , Stettler Christoph
Published: February 2023

Aim

To develop and evaluate the concept of a non‐invasive machine learning (ML) approach for detecting hypoglycaemia based exclusively on combined driving (CAN) and eye tracking (ET) data.

Materials and Methods

We first developed and tested our ML approach in pronounced hypoglycaemia, and then we applied it to mild hypoglycaemia to evaluate its early warning potential. For this, we conducted two consecutive, interventional studies in individuals with type 1 diabetes. In study 1 (n = 18), we collected CAN and ET data in a driving simulator during euglycaemia and pronounced hypoglycaemia (blood glucose [BG] 2.0‐2.5 mmol L−1). In study 2 (n = 9), we collected CAN and ET data in the same simulator but in euglycaemia and mild hypoglycaemia (BG 3.0‐3.5 mmol L−1).

Results

Here, we show that our ML approach detects pronounced and mild hypoglycaemia with high accuracy (area under the receiver operating characteristics curve 0.88 ± 0.10 and 0.83 ± 0.11, respectively).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that an ML approach based on CAN and ET data, exclusively, enables detection of hypoglycaemia while driving. This provides a promising concept for alternative and non‐invasive detection of hypoglycaemia.
Predicting the age at maturity of Asian carp using air temperature
Authors: Brook Madison E. , Cuddington Kim , Koops Marten A.
Published: February 2023

Asian carp (bighead carp, Hypophthalmichthys nobilis; grass carp, Ctenopharyngodon idella and silver carp, H. molitrix) are a group of invasive species that are predicted to cause ecological effects if they invade the Great Lakes basin. Although Asian carp age at maturity is known to be an important factor in the risk of establishing a population, there is relatively little maturity data for North America. We found that air temperature can be used to predict the age at maturity of Asian carp. Nonlinear regressions using mean annual air temperature and annual degree days to predict age at maturity explain 60% and 62% of the variation respectively. These models predict that maturation is possible in locations that were previously excluded from Asian carp spawning range based on data from the Amur River. As expected, we find faster maturation in more southern areas of North America, although there are relatively large errors predicting age at maturity in the Mississippi River population. We conclude that due to the effect of faster maturation on population growth rates, southern Great Lakes locations (e.g. Lake Erie) may be at greater risk of faster population establishment.
Cortactin expression in a Norwegian cohort of human papilloma virus negative oral squamous cell carcinomas of the mobile tongue
Authors: Sengüven Toközlü B. , Sapkota D. , Vallenari E. M. , Schreurs O. , Søland T. M.
Published: February 2023

Oral squamous cell carcinoma of the tongue (OTSCC) is the most common malignancy among oral squamous cell carcinomas and is frequently associated with an unfavorable prognosis. Local spread and distant metastasis are important causes of poor prognosis in OTSCC. Cortactin amplification and overexpression, a common molecular alteration in oral squamous cell carcinomas, have been linked to invasion and metastasis of tumor cells. However, the intra‐tumor expression pattern and prognostic significance of cortactin in human papillomavirus (HPV) negative OTSCC is not fully investigated. Immunohistochemical analysis using tissue microarray consisting of formalin‐fixed and paraffin‐embedded HPV negative OTSCC (n = 123) specimens showed overexpression of cortactin at tissue cores from invading fronts as compared to the corresponding center cores. High overall cortactin expression was found to be associated with advanced (larger) tumor size and the occurrence of distance metastasis. Kaplan‐Meier survival analysis showed that patients with high overall cortactin expression were associated with reduced 5‐year survival. Multivariate Cox regression analysis identified high cortactin expression to be an independent prognostic factor in OTSCC. Additionally, siRNA‐mediated silencing of cortactin was found to suppress the proliferative and invasive abilities of OTSCC cells in an organotypic co‐culture model. Overexpression of cortactin is a promising prognostic marker in HPV‐negative OTSCC.
COMPETITIVE MARKET BEHAVIOR: CONVERGENCE AND ASYMMETRY IN THE EXPERIMENTAL DOUBLE AUCTION
Authors: Ikica Barbara , Jantschgi Simon , Nax Heinrich H. , Duran Diego G. Nuñez , Pradelski Bary S. R.
Published: February 2023

We conducted a large number of controlled continuous double auction experiments to reproduce and stress‐test the phenomenon of convergence to competitive equilibrium under private information with decentralized trading feedback. Our main finding is that across a total of 104 markets (involving over 1,700 subjects), convergence occurs after a handful of trading periods. Initially, however, there is an inherent asymmetry that favors buyers, typically resulting in prices below equilibrium levels. Analysis of over 80,000 observations of individual bids and asks helps identify empirical ingredients contributing to the observed phenomena including higher levels of aggressiveness initially among buyers than sellers.
A review of current treatments for chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome under the UPOINTS system
Authors: Maeda Koki , Shigemura Katsumi , Fujisawa Masato
Published: February 2023

Prostatitis is classified into four categories according to the National Institutes of Health Consensus Classification. The largest category, Category III chronic prostatitis and chronic pelvic pain syndrome (CP/CPPS), has a wide range of symptoms and is difficult to diagnose because diagnosis is based on exclusion. Although many treatment modalities, including both pharmacological and non‐pharmacological treatments, have been tried, definitive treatment methods have not yet been established, and many urologists struggle with the daily treatment of these conditions. The reasons for the failure of treatment are not only the wide variety of symptoms, but also the wide variety of causes. Therefore, the UPOINTS system is widely used, in which treatment methods are divided or combined according to symptoms and causes. This article summarizes the reports on treatment and reviews treatment findings for CP/CPPS in accordance with the UPOINTS system.
Genetic population structure of Pseudoplatystoma corruscans (Siluriformes: Pimelodidae) and evidence of temporal variation in structure
Authors: Rueda Eva C. , Machado Carolina B. , Castro Veronica , Braga‐Silva Alline , Ojeda Guillermo , Vargas Facundo , Loretán Gisela , Freitas Patricia D. , Galetti Pedro M. , Ortí Guillermo
Published: February 2023

Surubim (Pseudoplatystoma corruscans, Pimelodidae) are migratory catfish native to the rivers in the La Plata and São Francisco basins. They are piscivores that attain considerable body sizes and are a valuable economic resource. Surubim exhibits extensive migrations during its life cycle that may affect the population structure at vast geographic scales. The authors examined the genetic diversity and population genetic structure of P. corruscans using microsatellite markers from a comprehensive sampling of 260 individuals from the Upper and Lower Paraná River. They identified two well‐differentiated genetic clusters corresponding to a natural geographic barrier historically separating Upper and Lower Paraná regions. They also demonstrated temporal variation in population genetic structure at a site in Lower Paraná close to the confluence with the Paraguay River, most likely explained by the influx of migrant fishes at certain times of the year.
Association between types of home healthcare and emergency house calls, hospitalization, and end‐of‐life care in Japan
Authors: Sun Yu , Iwagami Masao , Komiyama Jun , Sugiyama Takehiro , Inokuchi Ryota , Sakata Nobuo , Ito Tomoko , Yoshie Satoru , Matsui Hiroki , Kume Keitaro , Sanuki Masaru , Kato Genta , Mori Yukiko , Ueshima Hiroaki , Tamiya Nanako
Published: February 2023

Background

To meet the increasing demand for home healthcare in Japan, as part of the national healthcare system, home care support clinics/hospitals (HCSCs) and enhanced HCSCs were introduced in 2006 and 2012 respectively. This study aimed to evaluate whether HCSCs has succeeded in providing 24‐h home care services through the end of life.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using the national database in Japan. Participants were ≥ 65 years of age, had newly started regular home visits between July 2014 and September 2015, and used general clinics, conventional HCSCs, or enhanced HCSCs. Each patient was followed up for 6 months after the first visit. The outcome measures were (i) emergency house call(s), (ii) hospitalization(s), and (iii) end‐of‐life care defined as in‐home death. Multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed for statistical analysis.

Results

The analysis included 160,674 patients, including 13,477, 64,616, and 82,581 patients receiving regular home visits by general clinics, conventional HCSCs, and enhanced HCSCs respectively. Compared to general clinics, the use of conventional and enhanced HCSCs was associated with an increased likelihood of emergency house calls (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] and 95% confidence intervals [CIs] of 1.62 [1.56–1.69] and 1.86 [1.79–1.93], respectively) and a decreased likelihood of hospitalizations (aOR [95% CIs] of 0.86 [0.82–0.90] and 0.88 [0.84–0.92] respectively). Among 39,082 patients who died during the follow‐up period, conventional and enhanced HCSCs had more in‐home deaths (aOR [95% CIs] of 1.46 [1.33–1.59] and 1.60 [1.46–1.74], respectively) compared to general clinics.

Conclusions

HCSCs (especially enhanced HCSCs) provided more emergency house calls, reduced hospitalization, and enabled expected deaths at home, suggesting that further promotion of HCSCs (especially enhanced HSCSs) would be advantageous.
Credit Market Frictions and Coessentiality of Money and Credit
Authors: KWON OHIK , LEE MANJONG
Published: February 2023

We explore how credit market frictions matter for the coessentiality of money and credit. Limited commitment calls for credit limits that are tailored according to borrowers' productivity. Under an adverse selection problem caused by asymmetric information, however, lenders impose the credit limit of the low‐productivity borrower onto the high‐productivity borrower. If productivities differ sufficiently between borrowers, the high‐productivity borrower is credit‐constrained and is willing to hold money to compensate for the deficiency of their credit limit, whereas the low‐productivity borrower is not. This implies the coessentiality of money and credit in the sense that their simultaneous use improves welfare.
Examining Enhanced Implementation of Routine Antenatal Care Practices to Support Healthy Pregnancy Weight Gain
Authors: Hoch Mikeeley , Meloncelli Nina , de Jersey Susan
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Current antenatal guidelines advocate for regular weighing of women during their pregnancy, with supportive conversations to assist healthy gestational weight gain (GWG). To facilitate overcoming weight monitoring barriers, a pregnancy weight gain chart (PWGC), coupled with brief intervention advice, was implemented in 2016 to guide provider and woman‐led routine weight monitoring. This study aimed to examine the extent to which the use of PWGCs and routine advice provision were normalized into routine antenatal care following enhanced implementation strategies and whether this led to a change in GWG.

Methods

This pre‐post study included data from 2010 (preimplementation), 2016, and 2019 (postimplementation). A retrospective audit of health records and PWGCs was undertaken to assess adherence to chart use and evaluate GWG outcomes. A survey was sent to women in 2010 and repeated in 2019 to understand the advice women received from health care professionals.

Results

Compared with the preimplementation cohort (2010), more women achieved a healthy GWG in 2019 (42% vs 31%,P= .04). In 2019, having 3 or more weights recorded was associated with a reduction in excess GWG (P= .028). More women reported receiving helpful advice about healthy GWG in 2019 compared with 2010, although minimal changes to advice received about nutrition and physical activity were observed.

Discussion

Enhanced implementation strategies and ongoing efforts to optimize supportive antenatal care practices are required to effect positive change in GWG. Further evaluation of the perspectives of pregnant women and counseling practices of health professionals is needed.