bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relative importance of safety against natural disasters for residential selection: a case study at Osaka prefecture, Japan
Authors: Takabatake Tomoyuki , Hasegawa Nanami , Nishigaki Suguru
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This study aims to clarify the following research questions: to what extent do people consider natural disaster risks as important for residential selection? what personal demographics and attitudes toward natural disaster risks are associated with the relative importance of natural disasters for residential selection? and to what extent do the associated personal attributes influence the relative importance of natural disasters for residential selection?

Design/methodology/approach

An internet-based survey was performed to collect 2,000 responses from residents of Osaka Prefecture, Japan, to gauge people’s relative importance of safety against natural disasters regarding residential preference. The obtained results were analysed using two types of statistical analysis, specifically chi-square test and multivariable logistic regression analyses.

Findings

It was found that 37.3% of the respondents in Osaka Prefecture, Japan, considered the “safety against natural disasters” relatively important when selecting a residential location. The statistical analysis also demonstrated that those having a relatively higher level of disaster awareness and preparedness were 1.41 times more likely to prefer to live in a place that is safer from natural disasters. Thus, it was suggested that disaster education aimed at raising the level of people’s disaster awareness could be effective to increase the number of people who choose to live in a safer place from natural disasters.

Originality/value

Living in an area that is safer from natural disasters can effectively minimize human and property damage. Recently, several measures have been taken in Japan to guide people to live in a safer place. The clarification of the extent to which people consider natural disaster risks as important for residential selection and the understanding of the categories of the people who are likely to do so is important to develop more effective natural disaster measures; however, there has been less attention on such investigation. Therefore, this study conducted an internet-based survey and examined it.
Air quality measurement, prediction and warning using transfer learning based IOT system for ambient assisted living
Authors: Sonawani Shilpa , Patil Kailas
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Indoor air quality monitoring is extremely important in urban, industrial areas. Considering the devastating effect of declining quality of air in major part of the countries like India and China, it is highly recommended to monitor the quality of air which can help people with respiratory diseases, children and elderly people to take necessary precautions and stay safe at their homes. The purpose of this study is to detect air quality and perform predictions which could be part of smart home automation with the use of newer technology.

Design/methodology/approach

This study proposes an Internet-of-Things (IoT)-based air quality measurement, warning and prediction system for ambient assisted living. The proposed ambient assisted living system consists of low-cost air quality sensors and ESP32 controller with new generation embedded system architecture. It can detect Indoor Air Quality parameters like CO, PM2.5, NO2, O3, NH3, temperature, pressure, humidity, etc. The low cost sensor data are calibrated using machine learning techniques for performance improvement. The system has a novel prediction model, multiheaded convolutional neural networks-gated recurrent unit which can detect next hour pollution concentration. The model uses a transfer learning (TL) approach for prediction when the system is new and less data available for prediction. Any neighboring site data can be used to transfer knowledge for early predictions for the new system. It can have a mobile-based application which can send warning notifications to users if the Indoor Air Quality parameters exceed the specified threshold values. This is all required to take necessary measures against bad air quality.

Findings

The IoT-based system has implemented the TL framework, and the results of this study showed that the system works efficiently with performance improvement of 55.42% in RMSE scores for prediction at new target system with insufficient data.

Originality/value

This study demonstrates the implementation of an IoT system which uses low-cost sensors and deep learning model for predicting pollution concentration. The system is tackling the issues of the low-cost sensors for better performance. The novel approach of pretrained models and TL work very well at the new system having data insufficiency issues. This study contributes significantly with the usage of low-cost sensors, open-source advanced technology and performance improvement in prediction ability at new systems. Experimental results and findings are disclosed in this study. This will help install multiple new cost-effective monitoring stations in smart city for pollution forecasting.
Individualism and climate change policies: international evidence
Authors: Vu Trung V.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to examine the extent to which the cultural dimension of individualism/collectivism matters for international differences in climate change policy performance. This study postulates that individualistic societies, relative to their collectivistic counterparts, are more likely to address global climate change.

Design/methodology/approach

The main hypothesis is tested using data for a world sample of up to 92 countries. To achieve causal inference, this study isolates exogenous sources of variation in individualistic cultures, based on blood distance to the UK and historical pathogen prevalence.

Findings

The core results suggest that individualistic countries are characterized by greater climate change policy performance. This study also finds evidence that individualism affects climate change policy adoption through enhancing governance and female political representation. Subnational analyses based on data from the World Values Survey indicate that survey participants with an orientation toward individualism tend to self-report positive attitudes to pro-environmental policies.

Research limitations/implications

The main findings help improve the understanding of the deep origins of climate change policy performance, which is relevant for formulating policies that help mitigate the consequences of changing climate conditions.

Originality/value

To the best of the author’s knowledge, this paper is the first study to link cultural traits of individualism and climate change policy performance across countries.
The pricing strategies under the online platform selling mode with information sharing
Authors: Cao Xiaogang , Yuan Jing , Wen Hui , Zhang Cuiwei
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Different information sharing mechanisms and online platform information sharing to different charging models are compared and analyzed.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper uses the Stackelberg game model to study the demand information sharing and pricing decisions.

Findings

The results show that: (1) the retailer's pricing strategy is the highest when both of them obtain information, while the manufacturer's pricing strategy is affected by the related attributes of different products, such as the sensitivity of consumers to product prices; (2) in the online platform sales model, the demand information data sharing owned by the online platform can bring more expected profits to the whole supply chain and the members of the supply chain, and the higher the accuracy of the information, the higher the expected profit; (3) when the cost of obtaining demand information is zero, that is, the online platform shares the information data about market demand free of charge, the retailer and manufacturer tend to obtain information; (4) for the online platform, charging a certain fee can achieve higher expected profits than free sharing.

Originality/value

Based on the single platform online sales model, this paper uses the Stackelberg game model to study the demand information sharing and pricing decision of a manufacturer and a retailer selling products through the same online platform.
Can garment production survive in a developed economy in the 21st century? A study of “Made in Ireland”
Authors: Keegan Miriam , Lu Sheng
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Given the heated academic and policy debate regarding the fate of garment manufacturing in a high-wage developed economy in the 21st century, this study aims to explore the production and export strategies of apparel “Made in Ireland.”

Design/methodology/approach

A logistic regression analysis of 4,000 apparel items at the stock keeping unit (SKU) level sold in the market from January 2018 to December 2021 was conducted to evaluate the production and export strategy of apparel “Made in Ireland” versus foreign-made imported items sold in Ireland.

Findings

The statistical results showed that Ireland’s apparel manufacturing sector survived the market competition by leveraging non-price competing factors, such as distinct product assortment, cultural heritage, history and traditional craftsmanship.

Originality/value

The findings challenged the conclusions of the classic trade and economic development theories regarding the trajectory of the garment manufacturing sector and called for a rethink about the strategies for expanding garment manufacturing in a high-wage developed country in today’s global economy.
Dear technology, you are not welcome: exploring ungratefulness towards technology
Authors: Garg Naval , Kumari Sarika
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Technology has become all-pervasive and one of the essential requirements of life. The blessings of science and technology are countless, and today, it is almost impossible to imagine life without applications of technology. And at the same time, positive psychologists have advocated practicing gratitude for the betterment of personal and professional growth and development. But ironically, the area of gratitude toward technology remains unexplored. The purpose of this study is to investigate the difference in gratitude for the technological and non-technological aspects of life.

Design/methodology/approach

The first study compared gratitude for three parameters – sense of abundance, social appreciation and appreciation for others. The second study was based on the “counting blessing” exercise, in which respondents were asked to write five things for which they feel grateful in life. The Friedman test and Wilcoxon signed-rank test were used to compare the ranked data. In the third study, respondents were distributed into two groups. Both groups were given a puzzle to solve; first, group members were informed that they would interact with other human beings, and the second group was informed that they would interact with bots.

Findings

All three studies concluded that respondents are relatively less grateful for the contributions of technologies.

Originality/value

This is probably the first study that investigated gratefulness for technology.
Spread of stinging ants to oceanic islands, and the need to raise awareness of prevention and treatment of ant stings
Authors: Hoffmann Benjamin D , Ducarme Frédéric , Bradford DanaKai , Martinez Santiago
Published: January 2023

Objective

Venomous invasive ants are rapidly dispersing throughout oceanic islands. Medics unfamiliar with envenomation or venom‐induced anaphylaxis may be unprepared for the range of possible reactions and corresponding treatments. We detail the suboptimal treatment of a patient suffering anaphylaxis from an ant sting on a remote island and describe what treatment should have been provided.

Methods

The patient experienced stings on his feet from an ant later identified as tropical fire ant, Solenopsis geminata. Clinical examination revealed throat swelling without obstruction of the airway or pharynx.

Results

The patient was provided the following suboptimal treatment: intravenously‐administered antihistamine and saline perfusion. Injected epinephrine should be the standard first line of treatment for anaphylaxis, even when not all symptoms are present.

Conclusion

A rise in invasive hymenopteran stings on oceanic islands is inevitable, and proactively improving public awareness and medical training could save lives.
Vacuum‐assisted excision biopsy for definitive diagnosis of breast lesions of uncertain malignant potential (B3 lesions) on core biopsy – A single centre Western Australian experience
Authors: Watson Jessica Frances , Radic Rose , Frost Rosanna , Paton Sarah , Kessell Meredith Anita , Dessauvagie Benjamin Frederik , Taylor Donna Blanche
Published: January 2023

Introduction

In Australia, the usual approach to breast lesions where core biopsy returns an uncertain result (“B3” breast lesion) is to perform surgical diagnostic open biopsy (DOB). This is associated with patient time off work, costs of hospital admission, risks of general anaesthesia and surgical complications. The majority of B3 lesions return benign results following surgery. Vacuum assisted excision biopsy (VAEB) is a less invasive, lower cost alternative, and is standard of care for selected B3 lesions in the United Kingdom. Similar use of VAEB in Australia, could save many women unnecessary surgery. The aim of this study was to document our experience during the introduction of VAEB as an alternative to DOB for diagnosis of selected B3 lesions.

Methods

The multidisciplinary team developed an agreed VAEB pathway for selected B3 lesions. Technically accessible papillary lesions, mucocele‐like lesions and radial scars without atypia measuring ≤ 15mm were selected.

Results

Over a 7 month period, 18 women with 20 B3 lesions were offered VAEB. 16 women (18 lesions) chose VAEB over DOB. Papillomas were the commonest lesion type. All lesions were successfully sampled: 17/18 were benign. One lesion (6%) was upgraded to malignancy (ductal carcinoma in situ on VAEB, invasive ductal carcinoma at surgery). No major complications occurred. Patient satisfaction was high: 15/16 respondents would again choose VAEB over surgery.

Conclusion

VAEB is a patient‐preferred, safe, well‐tolerated, lower‐cost alternative to DOB for definitive diagnosis of selected B3 breast lesions.
Assessing the utility of marine filter feeders for environmental DNA (eDNA) biodiversity monitoring
Authors: Jeunen Gert‐Jan , Cane Jasmine S. , Ferreira Sara , Strano Francesca , von Ammon Ulla , Cross Hugh , Day Robert , Hesseltine Sean , Ellis Kaleb , Urban Lara , Pearson Niall , Olmedo‐Rojas Pamela , Kardailsky Anya , Gemmell Neil J. , Lamare Miles
Published: January 2023

Aquatic environmental DNA (eDNA) surveys are transforming how marine ecosystems are monitored. The time‐consuming preprocessing step of active filtration, however, remains a bottleneck. Hence, new approaches that eliminate the need for active filtration are required. Filter‐feeding invertebrates have been proven to collect eDNA, but side‐by‐side comparative studies to investigate the similarity between aquatic and filter‐feeder eDNA signals are essential. Here, we investigated the differences among four eDNA sources (water; bivalve gill‐tissue; sponges; and ethanol in which filter‐feeding organisms were stored) along a vertically stratified transect in Doubtful Sound, New Zealand using three metabarcoding primer sets targeting fish and vertebrates. Combined, eDNA sources detected 59 vertebrates, while concurrent diver surveys observed eight fish species. There were no significant differences in alpha and beta diversity between water and sponge eDNA and both sources were highly correlated. Vertebrate eDNA was successfully extracted from the ethanol in which sponges were stored, although a reduced number of species were detected. Bivalve gill‐tissue dissections, on the other hand, failed to reliably detect eDNA. Overall, our results show that vertebrate eDNA signals obtained from water samples and marine sponges are highly concordant. The strong similarity in eDNA signals demonstrates the potential of marine sponges as an additional tool for eDNA‐based marine biodiversity surveys, by enabling the incorporation of larger sample numbers in eDNA surveys, reducing plastic waste, simplifying sample collection, and as a cost‐efficient alternative. However, we note the importance to not detrimentally impact marine communities by, for example, nonlethal subsampling, specimen cloning, or using bycatch specimens.
Real‐time alerts from AI‐enabled camera traps using the Iridium satellite network: A case‐study in Gabon, Central Africa
Authors: Whytock Robin C. , Suijten Thijs , van Deursen Tim , Świeżewski Jędrzej , Mermiaghe Hervé , Madamba Nazaire , Mouckoumou Narcisse , Zwerts Joeri A. , Pambo Aurélie Flore Koumba , Bahaa‐el‐din Laila , Brittain Stephanie , Cardoso Anabelle W. , Henschel Philipp , Lehmann David , Momboua Brice Roxan , Makaga Loïc , Orbell Christopher , White Lee J. T. , Iponga Donald Midoko , Abernethy Katharine A.
Published: January 2023

Efforts to preserve, protect and restore ecosystems are hindered by long delays between data collection and analysis. Threats to ecosystems can go undetected for years or decades as a result. Real‐time data can help solve this issue but significant technical barriers exist. For example, automated camera traps are widely used for ecosystem monitoring but it is challenging to transmit images for real‐time analysis where there is no reliable cellular or WiFi connectivity.

We modified an off‐the‐shelf camera trap (Bushnell™) and customised existing open‐source hardware to create a ‘smart’ camera trap system. Images captured by the camera trap are instantly labelled by an artificial intelligence model and an ‘alert’ containing the image label and other metadata is then delivered to the end‐user within minutes over the Iridium satellite network. We present results from testing in the Netherlands, Europe, and from a pilot test in a closed‐canopy forest in Gabon, Central Africa. All reference materials required to build the system are provided in open‐source repositories.

Results show the system can operate for a minimum of 3 months without intervention when capturing a median of 17.23 images per day. The median time‐difference between image capture and receiving an alert was 7.35 min, though some outliers showed delays of 5‐days or more when the system was incorrectly positioned and unable to connect to the Iridium network.

We anticipate significant developments in this field and hope that the solutions presented here, and the lessons learned, can be used to inform future advances. New artificial intelligence models and the addition of other sensors such as microphones will expand the system's potential for other, real‐time use cases including real‐time biodiversity monitoring, wild resource management and detecting illegal human activities in protected areas.
Dermatological aspects of ticks in Australia: An update
Authors: Khan Hina Ali , Oskam Charlotte , Kumarasinghe Prasad
Published: January 2023

Ticks are ectoparasites that cause dermatologic reactions directly by their bites and indirectly as vectors of bacterial, protozoal and viral diseases. Consequences vary from minor local reactions to significant systemic sequelae and are therefore of clinical relevance to dermatologists. In this article, Australian ticks of medical importance are reviewed through the lens of dermatology.
The effect of anti‐spasmodic administration on the accuracy of magnetic resonance imaging staging of rectal cancer
Authors: Taylor Anna , Wilkins Simon , Gelber Nicholas , Wang Wei Chun , Oliva Karen , Yap Raymond , McMurrick Paul , Ranchod Pravin
Published: January 2023

Backgrounds

Magnetic resonance imaging is the primary method for local staging in rectal cancer patients. Administration of intravenous (IV) hyoscine butylbromide is thought to improve accuracy, but there are contraindications and potential adverse effects. The aim was to assess the efficacy of IV hyoscine butylbromide on the accuracy of MRI rectal cancer staging of T2 and T3 rectal cancers.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was carried out on patients prospectively recorded on the Cabrini Monash colorectal neoplasia database. A total of 74 patients (53 males, 21 females) MRI pelvis and rectums with antispasmodics were performed at multiple centres in the pre‐operative setting between 2010 and 2016. Each patient underwent total mesorectal excision of rectal cancer. The excision specimens were assessed and given a pathological TNM stage, which was considered the reference standard.

Results

There was no statistically significant impact on the overall accuracy of MRI rectal cancer staging between patient groups who received IV hyoscine butylbromide and groups who did not receive IV hyoscine butylbromide. The accuracy of T2 and T3 staged rectal cancers was more likely to be correct (compared with T1 cancers) with the administration of IV hyoscine butylbromide. Still, there was no improvement in the accuracy of N‐staging.

Conclusion

Given the potential side effects and adverse outcomes of IV anti‐spasmodic agents, department protocols may need to be re‐assessed regarding the prescription of these medications for MRI rectal cancer staging.
Polysaccharide‐modified liposomes and their application in cancer research
Authors: Peng Peichun , Chen Zeshan , Wang Miaodong , Wen Bin , Deng Xin
Published: January 2023

Nanodrug delivery systems have been widely used in cancer treatment. Among these, liposomal drug carriers have gained considerable attention due to their biocompatibility, biodegradability, and low toxicity. However, conventional liposomes have several shortcomings, such as poor stability, rapid clearance, aggregation, fusion, degradation, hydrolysis, and oxidation of phospholipids. Polysaccharides are natural polymers of biological origin that exhibit structural stability, excellent biocompatibility and biodegradability, flexibility, non‐immunogenicity, low toxicity, and targetability. Therefore, they represent a promising class of polymers for the modification of the surface properties of liposomes to overcome their shortcomings. In addition, polysaccharides can be readily combined with other materials to develop new composite materials. Hence, they represent the optimal choice for liposomal modification to improve pharmacokinetics and clinical utility. Polysaccharide‐coated liposomes exhibit better stability, drug release kinetics, and cellular uptake than conventional liposomes. The oncologic application of polysaccharide‐coated liposomes has become a research hotspot. We summarize the preparation, physicochemical properties, and antineoplastic effects of polysaccharide‐coated liposomes to facilitate antitumor drug development.
A systematic review of the colorectal microbiome in adult cystic fibrosis patients
Authors: Gilbert Brent , Kaiko Gerard , Smith Stephen , Wark Peter
Published: January 2023

Aim

Cystic fibrosis (CF) is a hereditary, life‐limiting, multi‐system condition that results in chronic respiratory infections, pancreatic insufficiency and intestinal inflammation. Evidence indicates that CF patients develop colorectal cancer (CRC) earlier and more often than the general population. Intestinal dysbiosis resulting from genetics and CF treatment is a contributing factor. This systematic review aims to evaluate the literature to compare the microbiome of adult CF patients to non‐CF patients and to assess if these changes correspond with known CRC microbiome alterations.

Methods

A systematic review across five databases was performed according to PRISMA guidelines. Studies focusing on adult CF patients using next generation sequencing and with appropriate non‐CF controls were included. Two reviewers independently screened results and assessed study quality using the Newcastle–Ottawa scale.

Results

The search generated 2757 results. 118 studies were retained after reviewing the title/abstract and full article review found five studies met the inclusion criteria. All studies consistently showed reduced microbial diversity in CF patients and unique clustering between CF and control cohorts. Thirty‐four genera and 27 species were differently expressed between CF and controls. The CF cohort had a reduced number of short‐chain fatty acid (SCFA) producing bacteria and a higher abundance of bacteria associated with CRC compared to controls.

Conclusion

There was substantial heterogeneity across all the studies with regard to methodologies and reporting. However, all studies consistently found CF patients had reduced microbial diversity, fewer SCFA producing bacteria and increased CRC‐associated bacteria. Further prospective studies employing consistent multi‐omics approaches are needed to improve our understanding of the CF gut microbiome and its involvement in early onset CRC.

Significance statement

This is the first systematic review to assess adult CF colorectal microbiome changes. This study shows CF patients have reduced SCFA producing bacteria and increased CRC‐associated bacteria compared to non‐CF patients and may help to explain the increased risk of CRC in the CF cohort.
Characterizing complex and competing drug–drug interactions between the antiviral regimen of glecaprevir and pibrentasvir with rifampin or carbamazepine
Authors: Kosloski Matthew P. , Li Hong , Wang Stanley , Mensa Federico , Kort Jens , Liu Wei
Published: January 2023

The fixed‐dose combination of the direct acting antivirals glecaprevir (GLE) and pibrentasvir (PIB) is an oral, once‐daily treatment for all six major genotypes of chronic hepatitis C virus infection. A single and multiple‐dose rifampin study (N = 12) and a carbamazepine study (N = 12) were conducted in healthy subjects to evaluate the effects of CYP3A/P‐gp induction and OATP inhibition on the pharmacokinetics of GLE and PIB. In study 1, GLE 300 mg + PIB 120 mg was administered as a single dose either alone, after single and multiple daily doses of rifampin 600 mg, or 24 h after the last rifampin dose. In study 2, GLE 300 mg + PIB 120 mg was administered as a single dose either alone or after multiple doses of carbamazepine 200 mg. Relative to GLE + PIB alone, exposure of GLE was significantly increased by the first co‐administered rifampin dose due to OATP inhibition, significantly decreased 24 h after the last rifampin dose due to CYP3A/P‐gp induction, and slightly increased when co‐administered with steady‐state rifampin due to a combination of inhibition and induction forces. Exposure of PIB was not affected when co‐administered with the first rifampin dose but was significantly decreased with steady‐state rifampin co‐administration, or 24 h after the last rifampin dose due to P‐gp induction. Carbamazepine significantly decreased GLE and PIB exposure, mainly attributed to P‐gp induction. The regimens tested were generally well‐tolerated by the subjects and no new safety issues were identified.
A novel single‐base deletion of the RUNX Family Transcription Factor 2 gene associated with cleidocranial dysplasia
Authors: Pan Yuhua , Lu Wanyu , Meng Weidong , Liao Wenxiao , Hu Aiqin , Wu Buling , Xiong Fu
Published: January 2023

Cleidocranial dysplasia (CCD) is a rare, autosomal dominant hereditary disorder characterized by skeletal malformations and dental abnormalities. The purpose of this study was to explore the functional role of a novel mutation in the pathogenesis of CCD. Genomic DNA was extracted from peripheral blood mononuclear cells collected from family members of a Chinese patient with CCD. An analysis of their RUNX Family Transcription Factor 2 (RUNX2) gene sequences was performed by PCR amplification and Sanger sequencing. The function of the mutant RUNX2 was studied by bioinformatics, real‐time PCR, western blotting, and subcellular localization analysis. Sanger sequencing identified a novel single‐base deletion (NM_001024630.4:c.132delG;NP_001019801.3: Val45Trpfs*99) in the RUNX2 gene present in the Chinese patient with CCD. In vitro, functional studies showed altered protein localization and increased expression of mutant RUNX2 mRNA and mutant Runt‐related transcription factor 2 (RUNX2). Luciferase reporter assay demonstrated that the novel RUNX2 mutations significantly increased the transactivation activity of RUNX2 on the osteocalcin gene promoter. In conclusion, we identified a patient with sporadic CCD carrying a novel deletion/frameshift mutation of the RUNX2 gene and performed screening and functional analyses to determine the cause of the CCD phenotype. This study provides new insights into the pathogenesis of CCD.3
Normalized hellinger feature selection and soft margin boosting classification for water quality prediction
Authors: Karuppannan Kalaivanan , Jayagopal Vellingiri
Published: January 2023

Several research works have been introduced using classification methods for predicting water quality. However, the accuracy level with which the prediction was made and the time consumed in the prediction was not found to be satisfactory. In order to solve these problems, water quality forecasting is done using machine learning and deep learning techniques. The study introduces an efficient water quality prediction called, Normalized Hellinger Feature Selection based Soft Margin Boosting (NHFS‐SMB) is developed based on pre‐processing, feature selection, and classification with higher accuracy and lesser time consumption. The Hellinger Similarity Feature selection model is used to select relevant features for water quality prediction. SMBC is an ensemble classifier that combines several weak classifiers (i.e., associative classifier) to provide the final prediction results as normal or contaminated conditions with lesser error rates. Experimental evaluation is determined by the factors such as accuracy, precision, recall, F1‐score, and ROC Curve with respect to the number of data points.
Experiences of peer navigators implementing a bilingual multilevel intervention to address sexually transmitted infection and HIV disparities and social determinants of health
Authors: Robles Arvizu José A. , Mann‐Jackson Lilli , Alonzo Jorge , Garcia Manuel , Refugio Aviles Lucero , Smart Benjamin D. , Rhodes Scott D.
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) disproportionately affect young gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM) and transgender women of colour. We explored the experiences of community‐based peer navigators (‘Community Navigators’) who participated in Impact Triad, a bilingual multilevel intervention developed by our community‐based participatory research partnership to reduce STIs and HIV and address social determinants of health (e.g., employment, education, social support and discrimination) among young GBMSM and transgender women of colour.

Methods

Individual in‐depth interviews were conducted with 15 Community Navigators who participated in Impact Triad. Themes were identified through constant comparison.

Results

Community Navigators' mean age was 31.4 years. Seven were self‐identified as African American/Black, 5 as Latine, 2 as multiracial/multiethnic, 1 as Asian American, 10 as cisgender men, 4 as transgender women and 1 as gender nonbinary. Thirteen themes emerged in three domains: (1) key aspects of the Community Navigator role (e.g., desire to serve as a community resource, the importance of being part of the communities in which one was working, the value of having an official role, being connected to other Community Navigators to problem‐solving and sustaining intervention aspects long‐term); (2) experiences implementing Impact Triad (e.g., engaging community members, meeting prioritized needs, building trust, using social media, increasing awareness and knowledge and challenges related to COVID‐19) and (3) lessons learned for future interventions (e.g., facilitating access to broader resources, building additional skills and increasing interactions among Community Navigators).

Conclusion

Interviews identified important learnings about serving as Community Navigators and implementing Impact Triad that can guide future efforts to address STI/HIV disparities and social determinants of health through community‐based peer navigation.

Patient or Public Contribution

Throughout this intervention trial, our partnership worked collaboratively with a study‐specific community advisory board (CAB) comprised primarily of young GBMSM and transgender women of colour. Members of this CAB participated in all aspects of the trial including trial design, intervention development, recruitment and retention strategies, data collection and analysis, interpretation of findings and dissemination.
Hemoglobin EE disease in young Laotian children: Hematologic features and the contributions of genetic variations to Hb F expression
Authors: Arong Areeda , Srivorakun Hathichanok , Chaibunruang Attawut , Fucharoen Supan , Fucharoen Goonnapa , Kounnavong Sengchanh , Sanchaisuriya Kanokwan
Published: January 2023

Background

The wide variation in hemoglobin (Hb) F levels has been observed in patients with Hb EE disease. This study aimed to describe hematologic features and determine the effect of genetic variants on Hb F expression in young children with Hb EE disease.

Methods

Hematologic features and Hb profiles of Laotian children aged 6–23 months, who originally enrolled in the Lao‐Zinc study, were retrospectively reviewed. Only children with Hb EE disease, as indicated by DNA analysis, were included in this current analysis. Genetic variants, including the Gγ‐XmnI polymorphism (C>T) of the HBG2 gene, the HBS1L‐MYB intergenic region on chromosome 6, and the BCL11A on chromosome 2 as well as the mutations occurring on the Krüppel‐like factor 1 (KLF1) gene, were examined.

Results

In total, 205 children were diagnosed as having Hb EE disease with Hb F ranged from 1.2 to 43.7%. Most of the children had mild to moderate anemia with a remarkable microcytosis. Analysis of the genetic variants revealed an extremely high frequency of the Gγ‐XmnI (93.7%). Applying multiple regression analysis adjusted for age, sex, and α‐thal gene, a positive relation was observed for the rs4671393 (coefficient = 3.87, p = .005) and the rs2297339 (coefficient = 2.48, p = .046), but not the Gγ‐XmnI. A statistically non‐significant relation was noted for the rs9399137 and the −154 (C>T) KLF1 mutation.

Conclusion

Our findings provide insight into complex situation of Hb F variability in young children with Hb EE disease; and this can guide to appropriate care and counseling to affected families.
Do unions provide employment protection in times of economic crisis? A natural experiment of COVID‐19
Authors: KIM Woo‐Yung
Published: January 2023

Considering the COVID‐19 pandemic as an exogenous shock, this article attempts to determine whether unions adjusted wages and working hours to protect their members during the economic crisis that it triggered. Based on 2018–20 Korean panel data, the author finds that, during the pandemic, union members were 1.9 times more likely to keep their jobs than non‐union members. However, no significant difference is found between the wage growth in the two sectors, although union members decreased their working hours more than nonunion members. The results therefore suggest that unions provided employment protection during this period by reducing working hours, not wages.
Managing peri‐mitral flutter
Authors: Lim Michael W. , Kistler Peter M.
Published: January 2023

The exponential rise in the incidence of peri‐mitral flutter has paralleled the increasing use of more extensive atrial substrate ablation for atrial fibrillation (AF). Given the relative paucity of randomized evidence to support its role in AF management, mitral isthmus ablation should largely be reserved for patients with peri‐mitral flutter. Catheter ablation for peri‐mitral flutter is challenging due to complex anatomic relationships. The aim of this report is to review the anatomic considerations and approaches to catheter ablation for peri‐mitral flutter.
The role of inflammation in the prospective associations between early childhood sleep problems and ADHD at 10 years: findings from a UK birth cohort study
Authors: Morales‐Muñoz Isabel , Upthegrove Rachel , Lawrence Kate , Thayakaran Rasiah , Kooij Sandra , Gregory Alice M , Marwaha Steven
Published: January 2023

Background

Several underlying mechanisms potentially account for the link between sleep and attention deficit and hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), including inflammation. However, studies so far have been cross sectional. We investigate (a) the association between early childhood sleep and probable ADHD diagnosis in childhood and (b) whether childhood circulating inflammatory markers mediate these prospective associations.

Methods

Data from the Avon Longitudinal Study of Parents and Children were available for 7,658 10‐year‐old children. Parent‐reported sleep duration, night awakening frequency and regular sleep routines were collected at 3.5 years. The Development and Wellbeing Assessment was administered to capture children with clinically relevant ADHD symptoms, or probable ADHD diagnosis. Blood samples were collected at 9 years, from which two inflammatory markers were obtained [interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) and C‐reactive protein (CRP)]. Logistic regression analyses were applied to investigate the associations between sleep variables at 3.5 years and probable ADHD diagnosis at 10 years. Further, path analysis was applied to examine the potential mediating role of inflammation at 9 years (as measured by CRP and IL‐6) in the associations between early sleep and ADHD at 10 years.

Results

Less regular sleep routines (OR = 0.51, 95% CI = 0.28–0.93, p = .029), shorter nighttime sleep (OR = 0.70, 95% CI = 0.56–0.89, p = .004) and higher night awakening frequency (OR = 1.27, 95% CI = 1.06–1.52, p = .009) at 3.5 years were associated with higher odds of ADHD at 10 years. Further, IL‐6 at 9 years, but not CRP, mediated the association between irregular sleep routines and ADHD (bias‐corrected estimate, −0.002; p = .005) and between night awakening and ADHD (bias‐corrected estimate, 0.002; p = .003).

Conclusions

Several sleep problems in early childhood constitute a risk factor for probable ADHD diagnosis at 10 years. Further, these associations are partially mediated by IL‐6 at 9 years. These results open a new research vista to the pathophysiology of ADHD and highlight sleep and inflammation as potential preventative targets for ADHD.
Effect of intensive lifestyle intervention on the association between weight variability and major adverse cardiovascular events in overweight or obese adults with type 2 diabetes mellitus
Authors: Zhong Xiangbin , Xu Xingfeng , Liu Menghui , Wang Peng , He Lixiang , Christopher Odong , Zhang Shaozhao , Lin Yifen , Huang Yiquan , Xiong Zhenyu , Zhuang Xiaodong , Liao Xinxue
Published: January 2023

Aims/introduction

Weight variability is associated with cardiovascular outcomes in diabetic patients. However, whether the guideline‐recommended intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI) will affect this association in overweight or obese adults with diabetes is not well established.

Materials and Methods

In 3,859 participants from the Action for Health in Diabetes (Look AHEAD) trial, the associations of 4 year weight variability measured by variability independent of the mean (VIM) with major adverse cardiovascular event (MACE) and secondary outcomes in ILI and diabetes support & education (DSE) arm were evaluated.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 9.6 years, 255 (12.9%) participants in the ILI arm and 247 (13.2%) participants in the DSE arm developed MACE. Participants with the highest quartile of weight variability (VIM Q4) experienced a 2.23‐fold higher risk of MACE compared with the lowest quartile (VIM Q1) in the DSE arm (hazard ratio [HR] 2.23; 95% CI 1.51–3.30). Compared with the lowest weight variability (VIM Q1), participants with the highest weight variability (VIM Q4) were associated with higher risks of secondary cardiovascular composite outcome (HR 1.88; 95% CI 1.20–2.95), all‐cause mortality (HR 3.19; 95% CI 1.75–5.82), and myocardial infarction (HR 1.95; 95% CI 1.12–3.37) in the DSE arm.

Conclusions

Among the overweight or obese individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus, rising weight variability was independently associated with increased MACE risks in the DSE arm. Therefore, a guideline‐recommended ILI strategy for weight loss should be adopted to improve cardiovascular outcomes without worrying about the effect of weight fluctuations.
Beneficial effects of the phytoestrogen genistein on hippocampal impairments of spontaneously hypertensive rats (SHR)
Authors: Ronchetti Santiago , Labombarda Florencia , Roig Paulina , De Nicola Alejandro F. , Pietranera Luciana
Published: January 2023

Hippocampal neuropathology is a recognized feature of the spontaneously hypertensive rat (SHR). The hippocampal alterations associate with cognitive impairment. We have shown that hippocampal abnormalities are reversed by 17β‐estradiol, a steroid binding to intracellular receptors (estrogen receptor α and β subtypes) or the membrane‐located G‐protein coupled estradiol receptor. Genistein (GEN) is a neuroprotective phytoestrogen which binds to estrogen receptor β and G‐protein coupled estradiol receptor. Here, we investigated whether GEN neuroprotection extends to SHR. For this purpose, we treated 5‐month‐old SHR for 2 weeks with 10 mg kg−1 daily s.c injections of GEN. We analyzed the expression of doublecortin+ neuronal progenitors, glial fibrillary acidic protein+ astrocytes and ionized calcium‐binding adapter molecule 1+ microglia in the CA1 region and dentate gyrus of the hippocampus using immunocytochemistry, whereas a quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction was used to measure the expression of pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor α, cyclooxygenase‐2 and transforming growth factor β. We also evaluated hippocampal dependent memory using the novel object recognition test. The results showed a decreased number of doublecortin+ neural progenitors in the dentate gyrus of SHR that was reversed with GEN. The number of glial fibrillary acidic protein+ astrocytes in the dentate gyrus and CA1 was increased in SHR but significantly decreased by GEN treatment. Additionally, GEN shifted microglial morphology from the predominantly activated phenotype present in SHR, to the more surveillance phenotype found in normotensive rats. Furthermore, treatment with GEN decreased the mRNA of the pro‐inflammatory factors tumor necrosis factor α and cyclooxygenase‐2 and increased the mRNA of the anti‐inflammatory factor transforming growth factor β. Discrimination index in the novel object recognition test was decreased in SHR and treatment with GEN increased this parameter. Our results indicate important neuroprotective effects of GEN at the neurochemical and behavioral level in SHR. Our data open an interesting possibility for proposing this phytoestrogen as an alternative therapy in hypertensive encephalopathy.
A comparison of risk factors for relapse in opiate‐related and stimulant‐related substance use disorders: A cross‐sectional multicenter study
Authors: Amini Kourosh , Long Tracey , Jafari Varjoshani Nasrin , Rabie Siahkali Soheila
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Recognizing the specific factors in relapse disorders related to each substance can help improve treatment methods and adopt more effective preventive strategies. This study aimed to compare the situational factors associated with relapse in opiate‐related disorders with stimulant‐related disorders (SRDs) of those referred to substance misuse treatment centers.

Design

This study was a cross‐section type.

Methods

The study participants were 150 clients with SRDs and 150 with opiate‐related disorders. Samples were selected using two stages random sampling method. Data were collected through a demographic questionnaire and the Inventory of Drug‐Taking Situations (IDTS).

Results

The mean score of IDTS in the two groups was significantly different (X̄1 = 45.93 ± 11.12 vs. X̄2 = 48.34 ± 15.07; t = 3.32, p < 0.01). The mean scores of ‘unpleasant emotions,’ ‘physical discomfort,’ ‘conflict with others,’ and ‘social pressure to use and urge/temptations’ subscales were significantly higher in the stimulant group than in the opiate group (p < 0.05). However, the mean of the testing’ personal control’ subscale was higher in the opiate group than in the stimulant group (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

This study reveals that despite some similarities, relapse‐related situational factors in opiates and stimulants differ. Some situational factors, such as social pressure and coping with unpleasant emotions, play a more critical role in relapse to both stimulant and opiate groups.
Synchronous ovarian and uterine mesonephric‐like carcinoma that potentially arose from endometrioid adenofibroma: A case report
Authors: Ishida Kentaro , Ashihara Takahito , So Makiko , Minamiguchi Sachiko , Matsumura Noriomi , Nonogaki Takafumi
Published: January 2023

Mesonephric‐like carcinoma histologically resembles mesonephric adenocarcinoma (MA) of the cervix. MA arises from mesonephric duct remnants. However, the origin of mesonephric‐like carcinoma is not extensively studied because of its rarity. Here, we present a case of synchronous ovarian and uterine mesonephric‐like carcinoma that potentially arose from endometrioid adenofibroma. A 69‐year‐old woman presented with an abdominal mass with no genital bleeding. She underwent simple total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral adnexal resection. Histological and immunohistochemical analyses were consistent with mesonephric‐like carcinoma involving both ovaries and the uterus. Endometrioid adenofibroma was present in both ovaries, while adenomyosis was observed in the uterus. The glandular duct of the endometrioid adenofibroma in the right ovary had areas suggestive of precursor lesions of mesonephric‐like carcinoma. All tumors exhibited the KRAS G12D mutation. These findings suggest that the origin of the mesonephric‐like carcinoma was the Müllerian duct, and that the ovarian and uterine tumors were monoclonal.
Staying connected and feeling less exhausted: The autonomy benefits of after‐hour connectivity
Authors: van Zoonen Ward , Treem Jeffrey W. , Sivunen Anu E.
Published: January 2023

This study investigates the longitudinal relationship between after‐hour connectivity, autonomy and exhaustion. In doing so, we seek to illuminate the role of individuals' connectivity to work in relation to their autonomy and well‐being. We juxtapose different effective directions of the relationship between connectivity and autonomy to shed light on whether and how connectivity and autonomy are related to employees' well‐being. This is important because research has both often problematized after‐hour connectivity and suggested that connectivity is an inherent feature of contemporary workplaces that may benefit employees. In this study, we hypothesize that after‐hour connectivity increases autonomy and that the autonomy to work anywhere and anytime leads to working everywhere all the time, thus increasing after‐hour connectivity. We further shed light on whether this behaviour has negative consequences for employees' well‐being or not. The three‐wave survey study (N = 192) demonstrates that after‐hour connectivity may operate as a resource that potentially empowers employees (increases autonomy). The freedom to work anytime, anywhere, does not itself increase after‐hour connectivity. Notably, we demonstrate that connectivity is negatively related to emotional exhaustion, through increased autonomy.