bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Where wolves were: setting historical baselines for wolf recovery in Spain
Authors: Clavero M. , García‐Reyes A. , Fernández‐Gil A. , Revilla E. , Fernández N.
Published: September 2022

Reference conditions are necessary to assess the conservation status of species, understand their declines, and manage their recovery. Historical documents offer large amounts of records of a wide variety of species, which may be used to generate reference baselines on the historical distribution range of species. We collected information on the Iberian wolf Canis lupus signatus presence or assumed absence for 6734 localities in Spain from the geographical dictionary edited by Pascual Madoz in the mid‐19th century. We used probabilistic distribution models to estimate the wolf historical range with unprecedented detail, allowing the quantification of the historical reduction in occupancy area. Wolf records were widely distributed in mid‐19th century Spain, being present in all its mainland provinces. The probability of occurrence was positively associated with landscape roughness and negatively with human population density and the landscape suitability for agriculture. The area estimated to be occupied by wolves ranged between 212 200 and 317 600 km2, depending on the approach used to set cut‐off values from the predictions. Our estimations represented an average range reduction of 68% between the mid‐19th century and present time, resulting in the current restriction of the species to the country's north‐western quadrant. The putative recent recovery of the wolf in Spain consists mainly of the accumulation of wolf records in areas where the species had persisted and the recolonization of some peripheral areas, but there is no indication of widespread recovery of the historical distribution range. We show that the compilation of historical species records allows producing baseline range scenarios with much higher resolution than usually available to inform species status and set recovery targets, an approach that can be implemented in other areas and taxa.
Immune checkpoint inhibitor-induced cutaneous toxicities: they are not just random
Authors: Lee Hanjae , Kwon Ohsang
Published: September 2022

Linked Article:  Nikolaou et al. Br J Dermatol 2022; 187:962–969.
Understanding the impact of life with vulval lichen sclerosus
Authors: Sivalingam Vanitha , Tamber Kajal
Published: September 2022

Linked Article:  Arnold et al. Br J Dermatol 2022; 187:909–918.
An evaluation of cardiopulmonary endurance and muscular strength in adults living with sickle cell disease
Authors: Ogunsile Foluso J. , Stewart Kerry J. , Kanter Julie , Lanzkron Sophie M.
Published: September 2022

There have been limited investigations into exercise in sickle cell disease (SCD). In the general population, health is reflected in general physical fitness. It is unclear if the same associations are seen in people with SCD. Here, we report a cross‐sectional assessment of two important measures of physical fitness, muscle strength and cardiorespiratory endurance, in adults with SCD. A total of 29 adults with SCD (aged 24–62 years; 72% female) completed cardiopulmonary and muscular strength testing using a cycle ergometer and an isokinetic dynamometer. Adults with SCD had lower median values for cardiorespiratory endurance (the median [interquartile range, IQR] peak oxygen uptake [VO2] 16.1 [6.3] vs. 42.65 [11.3] ml/kg/min, p < 0.001) and knee strength (median [IQR] flexor torque 26.91[22.5] vs. 55.6 [22.7] Nm, p < 0.001) compared to controls and predicted values. Interestingly, there was a very positive association between muscular strength and peak VO2 values for adults with SCD (r = 0.53, p = 0.003) suggesting these values may be useful in determining cardiopulmonary health.
Ciltacabtagene autoleucel in patients with relapsed/refractory multiple myeloma: CARTITUDE‐1 (phase 2) Japanese cohort
Authors: Ri Masaki , Suzuki Kenshi , Ishida Tadao , Kuroda Junya , Tsukamoto Taku , Teshima Takanori , Goto Hideki , Jackson Carolyn C. , Sun Huabin , Pacaud Lida , Fujikawa Ei , Yeh Tzu‐Min , Hatayama Tomoyoshi , Aida Kensuke , Sunagawa Yoshihiro , Iida Shinsuke
Published: September 2022

Chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting B‐cell maturation antigen have shown positive responses in patients with multiple myeloma (MM). The phase 2 portion of the CARTITUDE‐1 study of ciltacabtagene autoleucel (cilta‐cel) included a cohort of Japanese patients with relapsed/refractory MM. Following a conditioning regimen of cyclophosphamide (300 mg/m2) and fludarabine (30 mg/m2), patients received a single cilta‐cel infusion at a target dose of 0.75 × 106 (range, 0.5–1.0 × 106CAR‐positive viable T cells/kg). The primary endpoint was overall response rate (ORR; defined as partial response or better) by International Myeloma Working Group criteria. A key secondary endpoint was the rate of very good partial response (VGPR) or better (defined as VGPR, complete response, stringent complete response). This first analysis was performed at 6 months after the last patient received cilta‐cel. Thirteen patients underwent apheresis, nine of whom received cilta‐cel infusion. Eight patients who received cilta‐cel at the target dose responded, yielding an ORR of 100%. Seven of eight (87.5%) patients achieved a VGPR or better. One additional patient who received a below‐target dose of cilta‐cel also achieved a best response of VGPR. MRD negativity (10−5 threshold) was achieved in all six evaluable patients. Eight of nine (88.9%) patients who received cilta‐cel infusion experienced a grade 3 or 4 adverse event, and eight (88.9%) patients experienced cytokine release syndrome (all grade 1 or 2). No CAR‐T cell neurotoxicity was reported. A positive benefit/risk profile for cilta‐cel was established for heavily pretreated Japanese patients with relapsed or refractory MM.
Inhibition of insulin‐like growth factor‐1 receptor enhances eribulin‐induced DNA damage in colorectal cancer
Authors: Yoshihiro Tomoyasu , Ariyama Hiroshi , Yamaguchi Kyoko , Imajima Takashi , Yamaga Satoru , Tsuchihashi Kenji , Isobe Taichi , Kusaba Hitoshi , Akashi Koichi , Baba Eishi
Published: September 2022

Microtubule targeting agents (MTAs) such as taxanes are broadly used for the treatment of patients with cancer. Although MTAs are not effective for treatment of colorectal cancer (CRC), preclinical studies suggest that a subset of patients with CRC, especially those with cancers harboring the BRAF mutation, could benefit from such agents. However, two MTAs, eribulin (Eri) and vinorelbine, have shown limited clinical efficacy. Here, we report that insulin‐like growth factor 1 receptor (IGF‐1R) signaling is involved in Eri resistance. Using CRC cell lines, we showed that Eri induces activation and subsequent translocation of IGF‐1R to the nucleus. When the activation and/or nuclear translocation of IGF‐1R was inhibited, Eri induced DNA damage and enhanced G2/M arrest. In a xenograft model using the Eri‐resistant SW480 cell line, the combination of Eri and the IGF‐1R inhibitor linsitinib suppressed tumor growth more efficiently than either single agent. Thus, our results indicated that combination dosing with Eri and an IGF‐1R inhibitor could overcome Eri resistance and offer a therapeutic opportunity in CRC.
Evaluation of the histamine H3 receptor antagonists from LINS01 series as cholinesterases inhibitors: Enzymatic and modeling studies
Authors: Lopes Flávia B. , Aranha Cecília M. S. Q. , Corrêa Michelle F. , Fernandes Gustavo A. B. , Okamoto Debora N. , Simões Leonardo P. M. , Junior Nailton M. N. , Fernandes João Paulo S.
Published: September 2022

Histamine is involved in several central nervous system processes including cognition. In the last years, H3 receptor (H3R) antagonists have been widely explored for their potential on dementias and other cognitive dysfunctions, and the cooperative role between histamine and acetylcholine neurotransmissions on cognitive processes is widely known in literature. This motivated us to assess the potential of 1‐[(2,3‐dihydrobenzofuran‐1‐yl)methyl]piperazines (LINS01 compounds) as inhibitors of cholinesterases, and thus this work presents the inhibitory effect of such compounds against acetyl (AChE) and butyrylcholinesterase. A set of 16 selected compounds were evaluated, being compounds 2d and 2e the most potent inhibitors of both cholinesterases (IC50 13.2–33.9 μM) by competitive mechanism, as indicated by the kinetic assays. Molecular docking simulations suggested that the allylpiperazine and dihydrobenzofuran motifs present in these compounds are important to perform π‐interactions with key tryptophan residues from the enzymes, increasing their affinity for both H3R and cholinesterases. Metric analysis support that compound 2d (LINS01022) should be highlighted due to its balanced lipophilicity (ClogP 2.35) and efficiency (LE 0.32) as AChE inhibitor. The results add important information to future design of dual H3R‐cholinesterases ligands.
Lomitapide ameliorates middle cerebral artery occlusion‐induced cerebral ischemia/reperfusion injury by promoting neuronal autophagy and inhibiting microglial migration
Authors: Zheng Yangmin , Hu Yue , Han Ziping , Yan Feng , Zhang Sijia , Yang Zhenhong , Zhao Fangfang , Li Lingzhi , Fan Junfen , Wang Rongliang , Luo Yumin
Published: September 2022

Aims

Stroke has a high incidence and is a disabling condition that can lead to severe cognitive, motor, and sensory dysfunction. In this study, we employed a drug repurposing strategy to investigate the neuroprotective effect of lomitapide on focal ischemic brain injury and explore its potential mechanism of action.

Methods

Experimental cerebral ischemia was induced by middle cerebral artery occlusion (MCAO) in adult male C57BL/6 mice and simulated by oxygen–glucose deprivation in N2a‐BV2 cells in co‐cultivation.

Results

Lomitapide significantly increased the survival rate, reduced the neuronal tissue loss, and improved the neurological function after MCAO. Furthermore, lomitapide could increase the expression of LC3‐II, reduce the expression of P62 and LAMP2, promote autophagic flux, and inhibit apoptosis by increasing and inhibiting the expression of the apoptosis‐associated proteins Bcl‐2 and Bax, respectively. In addition, lomitapide inhibited the migration of pro‐inflammatory microglia.

Conclusion

Lomitapide is a lipid‐lowering drug, and this is the first study to explore its protective effect on ischemic nerve injury in vitro and in vivo. Our results suggest that lomitapide can be repositioned as a potential therapeutic drug for the treatment of stroke.
Detecting preservation and reintroduction sites for endangered plant species using a two‐step modeling and field approach
Authors: Rusconi Olivia , Broennimann Olivier , Storrer Yannick , Le Bayon Renée‐Claire , Guisan Antoine , Rasmann Sergio
Published: September 2022

To withstand the surge of species loss worldwide, (re)introduction of endangered plant species has become an increasingly common technique in conservation biology. Successful (re)introduction plans, however, require identifying sites that provide the optimal ecological conditions for the target species to thrive. In this study, we propose a two‐step approach to identify appropriate (re)introduction sites. The first step involves modeling the niche and distribution of the species with bioclimatic and topographical predictors, both at continental and at national scales. The second step consists of refining these bioclimatic predictions by analyzing stationary ecological parameters, such as soil conditions, and relating them to population‐level fitness values. We demonstrate this methodology using Swiss populations of the lady's slipper orchid (Cypripedium calceolus L., Orchidaceae), for which conservation plans have existed for years but have generally been unfruitful. Our workflow identified sites for future (re)introductions based on the species requirements for mid‐to‐sunny light conditions and specific soil physico‐chemical properties, such as basic to neutral pH and low soil organic matter content. Our findings show that by combining wide‐scale bioclimatic modeling with fine scale field measurements it is possible to carefully identify the ecological requirements of a target species for successful (re)introductions.
RETRACTED: Challenges and vulnerability evaluation of smart cities in IoT device based on cybersecurity mechanism
Authors: Almagrabi Alaa Omran
Published: September 2022

In recent times, Cyber thieves discover new software vulnerabilities and attack vectors to take advantage of them. Cyber Security (CS) specialists are having a constant battle to stay on top of the latest threats. Knowledge sharing, sometimes called intelligence sharing, can enhance collective resilience and responsiveness in the face of dangers if peers are willing to share information proactively. Internet of Things (IoT) is the buzz word which integrates almost all the technology concerning computation and communication. Before the IoT goal can be fully realized, some barriers must be addressed, with security and privacy being two of the most essential. When IoT devices connect to an IoT gateway or other edge device, the sensor data they gather is either transmitted to the cloud for analysis or processed locally. Based on the received information, they act and it can expose a device as well as its data. Insufficient or no device authentication and authorization are common problems, as is poor or no encryption. Due to restricted energy supplies and low processing power, IoT security and privacy are complex, especially for resource‐constrained devices. In this article, IoT‐CS security problems and associated threats are discussed. The overarching goals were identifying assets and exploring possible threats, assaults, and vulnerabilities encountered by the IoT in the sectors like healthcare, transportation, utilities, safety, and environmental health that might be significantly improved with IoT‐CS deployment in smart cities. The predominant challenges in the deployment of the IoT related technologies had been studied in the aspects of cyber security and mitigation strategies had been discussed.
Distribution and predicted climatic refugia for a reef‐building cold‐water coral on the southeast US margin
Authors: Gasbarro Ryan , Sowers Derek , Margolin Alex , Cordes Erik E.
Published: September 2022

Climate change is reorganizing the planet's biodiversity, necessitating proactive management of species and habitats based on spatiotemporal predictions of distributions across climate scenarios. In marine settings, climatic changes will predominantly manifest via warming, ocean acidification, deoxygenation, and changes in hydrodynamics. Lophelia pertusa, the main reef‐forming coral present throughout the deep Atlantic Ocean (>200 m), is particularly sensitive to such stressors with stark reductions in suitable habitat predicted to accrue by 2100 in a business‐as‐usual scenario. However, with new occurrence data for this species along with higher‐resolution bathymetry and climate data, it may be possible to locate further climatic refugia. Here, we synthesize new and published biogeographic, geomorphological, and climatic data to build ensemble, multi‐scale habitat suitability models for L. pertusa on the continental margin of the southeast United States (SEUS). We then project these models in two timepoints (2050, 2100) and four climate change scenarios to characterize the occurrence probability of this critical cold‐water coral (CWC) habitat now and in the future. Our models reveal the extent of reef habitat in the SEUS and corroborate it as the largest currently known essentially continuous CWC reef province on earth, and also predict abundance of L. pertusa to identify key areas, including those outside areas currently protected from bottom‐contact fishing. Drastic reductions in L. pertusa climatic suitability index emerged primarily after 2050 and were concentrated at the shallower end (<~550 m) of the regional distribution under the Gulf Stream main axis. Our results thus suggest a depth‐driven climate refuge effect where deeper, cooler reef sites experience lesser declines. The strength of this effect increases with climate scenario severity. Taken together, our study has implications for the regional and global management of this species, portending changes in the biodiversity reliant on CWC habitats and the critical ecosystem services they provide.
Expanding the Miscanthus market in the UK: Growers in profile and experience, benefits and drawbacks of the bioenergy crop
Authors: von Hellfeld Rebecca , Hastings Astley , Kam Jason , Rowe Rebecca , Clifton‐Brown John , Donnison Iain , Shepherd Anita
Published: September 2022

To achieve net zero greenhouse gas emission by 2050 as set out by the 2019 amendment to the 2008 UK Climate Change Act, a major shift towards renewable energy is needed. This includes the development of new methods along with improving and upscaling existing technologies. One example of new methods in bioenergy is developing new Miscanthus cultivars for electricity generation via thermal power station furnaces. Miscanthus is still relatively new compared with other agriculture practices, so market assessments and improvements are needed to reduce the barriers to entry for prospective growers. This publication provides a profile of UK Miscanthus growers and their businesses, their experiences of benefits and drawbacks of the crop, and what they see as potential barriers to entry for prospective farmers. A survey of current Miscanthus growers in England and Wales was conducted and indicated that most farmers were content with the crop and that its environmental and economic benefits were noted. However, it was evident that with a geographically limited UK market, growers wanted to see a better distribution of biomass processing stations to reduce the ongoing costs of transport. With growing demand for renewables, including bio‐energy sources, it was determined important to provide information and support for stable farming operations and to incentivise the adoption of Miscanthus. Such incentives include ongoing development of new cultivars, focussing on traits such as production potential and stressor resilience, and growers indicated preference for an annual planting grant. These developments are predicted to further improve the crop's profit margin, making it a more cost‐effective crop for farmers. Sensitively managed Miscanthus also has the potential to contribute to carbon sequestration, soil health, and aspects of farmland biodiversity. Incentivising such management in government land–based environmental schemes would offer additional income streams and help to promote environmental positive crop planting.
Potentially inappropriate medication use, polypharmacy, and falls among hospitalized patients
Authors: Li Shan‐Jen , Hwang Hei‐Fen , Yu Wen‐Yu , Lin Mau‐Roung
Published: September 2022

Aim

This matched case–control study investigated potentially inappropriate medication (PIM) use, polypharmacy, and other potential risk factors for falls among hospitalized older adults in Taiwan.

Methods

During an 18‐month study period, 131 case patients who experienced a fall during hospitalization in an acute‐care hospital were identified and matched by the time of day, hospital ward, and age to controls (five for each case) who were selected through random systematic sampling. Data on demographics, medical characteristics, and all orally and intravascularly administered medications during hospitalization prior to a fall were collected. PIMs were assessed using the 2019 Beers criteria.

Results

A conditional logistic regression analysis revealed that admission to the departments of internal medicine (odds ratio [OR] = 2.33; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.09–4.91) and neurology and rehabilitation (OR = 4.67; 95% CI = 2.08–10.5), diabetes with end‐organ damage (OR = 2.07; 95% CI = 1.11–3.86), PIM use of central nervous system drugs (OR = 1.81; 95% CI = 1.15–2.86), use of colchicine (OR = 5.49; 95% CI = 1.34–22.5) and spironolactone (OR = 4.54; 95% CI = 1.31–15.8) for renal function impairment, and polypharmacy (≥5 medications; OR = 1.81; 95% CI = 1.05–3.10) significantly increased the risk of falls. By contrast, being overweight or obese (OR = 0.47; 95% CI = 0.29–0.78) was associated with a significantly lower risk of falls.

Conclusions

PIM use may increase the risk of falls in hospitalized older patients, and PIM identification and evaluation can reduce this risk. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 857–864.
Fermentation quality, nutritive value and in vitro ruminal digestion of Napier grass, sugarcane top and their mixed silages prepared using lactic acid bacteria and formic acid
Authors: Xie Huade , Xie Fang , Guo Yanxia , Liang Xin , Peng Lijuan , Li Mengwei , Tang Zhenhua , Peng Kaiping , Yang Chengjian
Published: September 2022

This study aimed to determine the fermentation quality, nutritive value and in vitro ruminal digestion of silages produced with mixtures of Napier grass (NG) and sugarcane top (ST) in five different ratios of fresh matter: 100:0 (N100), 75:25 (N75), 50:50 (N50), 25:75 (N25) and 0:100 (N0) with or without lactic acid bacteria (LAB) and formic acid (FA). The NG contained a higher crude protein (CP) content and buffering capacity, but lower dry matter (DM), organic matter, neutral detergent fiber, acid detergent fiber and water‐soluble carbohydrates contents than ST. The N25 silage fermented well, with a significantly higher lactic acid (LA) content (p < .05) and lower pH and NH3‐N concentration than those of other mixed silages (p < .05). The FA addition resulted in the highest CP content and lowest pH, LA, acetic acid (AA) and NH3‐N contents, while LAB addition resulted in the highest LA content compared with other treatments. Although in vitro DM digestibility (IVDMD) did not significantly differ among the mixed silages (p > .05), mixing with ST and adding LAB or FA increased the IVDMD. Gas production (GP) and AA content of N25 silages were significantly higher than those of other silages (p < .05). The LAB‐ or FA‐treated silages had higher IVDMD, GP, total volatile fatty acid and AA contents (p < .05) but lower pH compared with the control silage (p < .05). These results demonstrated that NG utilization improved upon mixing with ST due to the enhanced fermentation during ensiling, and the optimum mixing ratio for NG and ST was 25:75 on FM basis. Using LAB and FA as additives during ensiling can improve silage fermentation quality and in vitro ruminal digestion.
The relationship of headache as a symptom to COVID‐19 survival: A systematic review and meta‐analysis of survival of 43,169 inpatients with COVID‐19
Authors: Gallardo Víctor J. , Shapiro Robert E. , Caronna Edoardo , Pozo‐Rosich Patricia
Published: September 2022

Objective

To study the relationship between coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) mortality and headache among patients evaluated for COVID‐19 in Emergency Departments and hospitals.

Background

COVID‐19 has disparate impacts on those who contract it. Headache, a COVID‐19 symptom, has been associated with positive disease prognosis. We sought to determine whether headache is associated with relative risk of COVID‐19 survival.

Methods

A systematic search in PubMed was performed independently by three reviewers to identify all COVID‐19 clinical inpatient series in accordance with the PRISMA guideline. Studies were included if the study design, COVID‐19 confirmation method, disease survival ratio, and presence of headache symptom were accessible. We included 48 cohort studies with a total of 43,169 inpatients with COVID‐19: 81.4% survived (35,132/43,169) versus 18.6% non‐survived (8037/43,169). A meta‐analysis of the included studies was then performed. The study was registered on PROSPERO (ID: CRD42021260151).

Results

When considering headache as a symptom of COVID‐19, we observed a significantly higher survival rate (risk ratio: 1.90 [1.46, 2.47], p < 0.0001) among COVID‐19 inpatients with headache compared to those without headache.

Conclusion

Headache among patients with COVID‐19 presenting to hospitals may be a marker of host processes which enhance COVID‐19 survival. Future studies should further confirm these findings, in order to better understand this relation and to try to address possible limitations related to the inclusion of more severe patients who would be unable to report symptoms (e.g., patients who were intubated).
Experiences of patients with cancer and their relatives confronted with COVID‐19 related delay or change in care: A qualitative study
Authors: Kenis Ilyse , Theys Sofie , Daem Michiel , Decoene Elsie , Demolder Veerle , Duprez Veerle , Pape Eva , Quaghebeur Marijke , Verhaeghe Sofie , Foulon Veerle , Van Hecke Ann
Published: September 2022

Aims

To provide in‐depth insight into how patients and their relatives experienced change or delay in cancer treatment and care due to COVID‐19.

Design

A qualitative study including semi‐structured interviews with patients with cancer and their relatives.

Methods

Between July and October 2020, 42 patients who were confronted with a change or delay in cancer treatment or care, and 11 relatives were interviewed. Data collection and analysis were performed according to the most important methods of grounded theory, including iterative data collection and analysis, theoretical sampling, constant comparative analysis and theoretical sensitivity.

Results

This study shows that patients with cancer and relatives experienced paradoxical feelings when confronted with change or delay in treatment or care due to COVID‐19. Patients and relatives felt relieved (e.g. less risk of infection), but were also concerned and anxious (e.g. fear for progression, fear for more side effects). Due to these ambivalent feelings, it was difficult for patients and relatives to cope with the change or delay in treatment or care, both when this was decided by the physician and by themselves. In combination with the general impact of COVID‐19 on their daily lives, the change or delay led to additional distress. The interviews showed that exploring the meaning of change or delay of care for patients and their relatives and discussing what would help them might prevent or relieve distress.

Conclusion

The findings of our study show that COVID‐19 and the associated delay or changes in cancer treatment and care had a major impact on the well‐being of patients and their relatives. Person‐oriented care is even more important during (emergency) situations in which care might be changed or delayed.
Philosophy and the clinic: Stigma, respect and shame
Authors: Loughlin Michael , Dolezal Luna , Hutchinson Phil , Subramani Supriya , Milani Raffaella , Lafarge Caroline
Published: September 2022

Since its foundation in 2010, the annual philosophy thematic edition of this journal has been a forum for authors from a wide range of disciplines and backgrounds, enabling contributors to raise questions of an urgent and fundamental nature regarding the most pressing problems facing the delivery and organization of healthcare. Authors have successfully exposed and challenged underlying assumptions that framed professional and policy discourse in diverse areas, generating productive and insightful dialogue regarding the relationship between evidence, value, clinical research and practice. These lively debates continue in this thematic edition, which includes a special section on stigma, shame and respect in healthcare. Authors address the problems with identifying and overcoming stigma in the clinic, interactional, structural and phenomenological accounts of stigma and the ‘stigma‐shame nexus’. Papers examine the lived experience of discreditation, discrimination and degradation in a range of contexts, from the labour room to mental healthcare and the treatment of ‘deviancy’ and ‘looked‐after children’. Authors raise challenging questions about the development of our uses of language in the context of care, and the relationship between stigma, disrespect and important analyses of power asymmetry and epistemic injustice. The relationship between respect, autonomy and personhood is explored with reference to contributions from an important conference series, which includes analyses of shame in the context of medically unexplained illness, humour, humiliation and obstetric violence.
Alternative approach to treating dark circles: A case report
Authors: Grillo Ricardo , de Campos Francisco Ubiratan Ferreira , de Barros Tarley Eloi Pessoa , Jodas Claudio Roberto Pacheco
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Dark circles under the eyes are a common condition worldwide with multiple treatment options. The aim of this paper is to report a case of dark circles treated with ozone therapy, which showed a very reasonable clinical improvement.

Case Report

A case of dark circles under the eyes treatment with ozone therapy concentrations and doses was reported. We searched MEDLINE treatment options for dark circles. Literature on this subject is scarce. CARE guidelines have been adopted for this case report.

Results

Ozone therapy is a really effective biostimulator, that reduces spots and wrinkles. In this case, the patient and healthcare professionals were satisfied with just two ozone therapy sessions. This is an interesting alternative treatment for this common condition.

Conclusions

Ozone therapy is a safe, inexpensive, and quick treatment for dark circles under the eyes. It can be used alone or in combination with other methods.
Clinical evaluation of the brightening effect of chitosan‐based cationic liposomes
Authors: Lee Mi So , Kim Su Ji , Lee Jun Bae , Yoo Hyuk Sang
Published: September 2022

Background

Cationic liposomes can enhance the permeability of drugs in 3‐D skin. Chitosan is considered a safe material for percutaneous delivery; thus, this study uses chitosan‐incorporated cationic liposomes.

Aims

This study investigated the improvement in skin brightness, melanin, and melasma after treatment niacinamide‐incorporated chitosan cationic liposomes.

Methods

A skin brightening agent, niacinamide, was formulated into cationic liposomes to facilitate percutaneous absorption and was clinically tested in 21 Korean female subjects. Cationic liposomes were prepared using a high‐pressure homogenizer after mixing an oil phase containing lecithin and cholesterol and an aqueous phase containing niacinamide and chitosan.

Results

The cationic liposomes exhibited stability over 28 days, with a particle size of 255–275 nm and zeta potential of 10–14 mV. Cationic liposomes containing niacinamide and a control formulation were applied to the left and right side of the face, respectively, twice daily for 28 days. Skin brightness, melanin index, and area of melasma were significantly enhanced where cationic liposomes were used, in comparison with formulations without cationic liposomes, demonstrating a 1.38–2.08‐fold improvement.

Conclusion

Thus, we established that chitosan liposomes augmented the percutaneous absorption of niacinamide and improved the appearance of the skin.
Can Corporate Social Responsibility Lead to Social License? A Sentiment and Emotion Analysis
Authors: Ho Shuna Shu Ham , Oh Chang Hoon , Shapiro Daniel
Published: September 2022

The termsocial license(SL) refers to the acceptance or approval by a community of a company's presence. It is generally assumed in the literature that effective corporate social responsibility (CSR) actions will lead to an SL. In this study we examine the CSR‐SL relationship at the local community level and establish boundary conditions on the effectiveness of local CSR in creating an SL. Using consent‐based micro‐social contract theory, we theorize that commitment to local CSR improves the level to which a local community grants an SL to a multinational corporation (MNC), but the impact is moderated by the global legitimacy of the parent company, the nature of institutions in the host country, and the degree of polarization within the focal community. Based on 3696 articles regarding 43 global mining MNCs operating in 523 local communities between 2008 and 2020, we use natural language processing and sentiment analysis to evaluate the degree to which a local community grants an SL. Our empirical evidence indicates that local CSR does positively influence the granting of an SL, but the effect is reduced when there is strong rule of law or high community polarization and increased when the focal firm has strong global legitimacy.
Overexpression of DEC1 in the epithelium of OSF promotes mesenchymal transition via activating FAK/Akt signal axis
Authors: Hu Xin , Wang Weiming , Hu Yue , Chen Wenxin , Wang Can , Yang Liudi , Mao Ting , Xia Kun , Min Anjie , Xiong Haofeng , Su Tong
Published: September 2022

Background

Previous studies on oral submucous fibrosis (OSF) mostly focused on the activation of fibroblasts and collagen metabolism, while little involved in the epithelium. As we have reported the role of differentiated embryo‐chondrocyte expressed gene 1 (DEC1) in oral cancer and other precancerous lesions, this research aimed to explore its role in the OSF epithelium.

Methods

Expression of DEC1 and other proteins were investigated in tissue array constructed with 33 OSF and 14 normal oral mucosa (NOM) tissues. Human oral keratinocytes treated with arecoline and/or hypoxia were used to simulate OSF epithelium and detected for morphological and protein alterations. Inhibition of DEC1 was used to explore its mediating role. Finally, animal models of OSF constructed by locally arecoline injecting in buccal mucosa were used to verify our findings.

Results

DEC1 overexpression could be detected in the epithelium of OSF compared with that in NOM followed by phosphorylated FAK and Akt, and DEC1 showed a significant positive correlation with them. Cytology experiment revealed that OSF‐like treatment could upregulate DEC1 expression followed by phosphorylated FAK, Akt, but inhibit E‐cadherin, while knockdown of DEC1 could suppress the effects. In addition, OSF mice revealed higher expression of DEC1 in the epithelium of buccal mucosa, along with synchronized alterations of phosphorylated FAK and Akt.

Conclusion

In the epithelium of OSF, overexpression of DEC1 induced activation of FAK/Akt signal axis, caused mesenchymal transition in epithelial cells, and may promote malignant transformation of OSF. Targeting DEC1 in OSF could be promising a new target for the diagnosis and treatment of this process.
Principles for the selection of a sensory panel for the evaluation of car interior materials
Authors: Fuchs Andreas , Engleder Stefanie , Huber Jürgen , Leitner Erich
Published: September 2022

Vehicle interior air quality has gained importance since the 1990s. One of the most widely accepted methods to measure emissions in this respect is the VDA 270—Determination of the odor characteristics of trim materials in motor vehicles. So far, it describes the odor evaluation procedure, but not the selection of the sensory panel. Therefore, the aim of this study was to investigate principles that might be applicable for the selection of a VDA 270 panel. Based on this work, a dedicated three‐step approach is detailed to aid in selecting a panel. It comprises of an odor threshold determination, a hedonic tone evaluation and a reproducibility test. In addition, a “Screening 12” test was performed to verify the assessors' olfactory function. The selection was not specific to gender and the age of the candidates ranged from 19 to 55 years. Out of 26 volunteers, only 10 were able to meet all of the self‐developed criteria for the panel. With this approach, the individual ratings of the selected panelists did not deviate by more than two odor grades for the selected polyolefin samples considering the VDA 270 scale.

Practical Applications

A meaningful comparison and interpretation of VDA 270 data requires objective test results. This is challenging as the VDA 270 scale is, at least partly, subjective and only a small minimum number of panelists is defined. The terminology used in the 6‐point scale itself was investigated in order to deduce potential tests for the panel selection procedure. Relevant international standards that are linked to the topic of interior air quality were screened to compare related guidelines for the panel selection. The implementation of a selection procedure needs to consider practical aspects in an industrial environment, too. Therefore, feasibility and quality issues are discussed to overcome some of those problems. As fundamental questions of sensory testing are involved this work might be relevant for other olfactory screening applications in an industrial setup. However, where hedonic tone measurements are required only consumer panels can provide reliable information.
The rice OsERF101 transcription factor regulates the NLR Xa1‐mediated immunity induced by perception of TAL effectors
Authors: Yoshihisa Ayaka , Yoshimura Satomi , Shimizu Motoki , Sato Sayaka , Matsuno Shogo , Mine Akira , Yamaguchi Koji , Kawasaki Tsutomu
Published: September 2022

Plant nucleotide‐binding leucine‐rich repeat receptors (NLRs) initiate immune responses by recognizing pathogen effectors. The rice gene Xa1 encodes an NLR with an N‐terminal BED domain, and recognizes transcription activator‐like (TAL) effectors of Xanthomonas oryzae pv oryzae (Xoo). Our goal here was to elucidate the molecular mechanisms controlling the induction of immunity by Xa1.

We used yeast two‐hybrid assays to screen for host factors that interact with Xa1 and identified the AP2/ERF‐type transcription factor OsERF101/OsRAP2.6. Molecular complementation assays were used to confirm the interactions among Xa1, OsERF101 and two TAL effectors. We created OsERF101‐overexpressing and knockout mutant lines in rice and identified genes differentially regulated in these lines, many of which are predicted to be involved in the regulation of response to stimulus.

Xa1 interacts in the nucleus with the TAL effectors and OsERF101 via the BED domain. Unexpectedly, both the overexpression and the knockout lines of OsERF101 displayed Xa1‐dependent, enhanced resistance to an incompatible Xoo strain. Different sets of genes were up‐ or downregulated in the overexpression and knockout lines.

Our results indicate that OsERF101 regulates the recognition of TAL effectors by Xa1, and functions as a positive regulator of Xa1‐mediated immunity. Furthermore, an additional Xa1‐mediated immune pathway is negatively regulated by OsERF101.
Chronic non‐bacterial osteomyelitis in children: Outcomes, quality of life
Authors: Ekici Tekin Zahide , Gülleroğlu Nadide Başak , Çelikel Elif , Aydın Fatma , Kurt Tuba , Tekgöz Nilüfer , Sezer Müge , Karagöl Cüneyt , Coşkun Serkan , Kaplan Melike Mehveş , Ekşioğlu Ayşe Secil , Acar Banu Çelikel
Published: September 2022

Background

Chronic non‐bacterial osteomyelitis is a chronic sterile inflammatory bone condition. We aimed to describe patients' clinical and radiographic findings and to evaluate their response to therapy and their quality of life.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 18 patients from a single center in Turkey whose clinical, radiological features, and outcomes were reviewed retrospectively. The quality of the patients' lives after treatment was compared with healthy controls using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0.

Results

The median age of disease onset was 12 years (IQR 10–14 years) and 11 (61.1%) patients were male. The median follow‐up duration was 15 months (IQR 12–22 months). The persistent form of chronic non‐bacterial osteomyelitis was the most common pattern in 15 (83.3%) patients and a recurrent pattern was defined in three (16.7%) patients. The lesions were multifocal in all patients and 15 (83.3%) patients had symmetric distribution in whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging. The most common sites of arthritis were the knee and sacroiliac joints. Methotrexate was used in 16 (88.9%) patients as first‐line therapy. However, some patients were unresponsive to the first‐line therapy and needed tumor necrosis factor‐α inhibitors (55.6%) and bisphosphonates (16.7%). We observed remission in only four (22.2%) patients, and three (16.7%) patients were unresponsive. The patients had a significantly poorer quality of life than controls (P = 0.005).

Conclusions

Chronic non‐bacterial osteomyelitis is an insidious disease that requires detailed analysis for diagnosis and whole‐body magnetic resonance imaging is an effective tool for its diagnosis. Despite the advanced treatment, patients with chronic non‐bacterial osteomyelitis have a poor quality of life.
On the drivers of potential customers' interest in long‐term care insurance: Evidence from Switzerland
Authors: Fuino Michel , Ugarte Montero Andrey , Wagner Joël
Published: September 2022

As the risks associated with aging start to materialize, societies become more aware of the financial consequences of long‐term care (LTC). While limited coverage is available through social insurance in many countries, attractive offers of private products barely exist and a lack of knowledge about LTC insurance persists. Based on a novel survey on aging, health, and dependence conducted in Switzerland, this study aims to comprehend the key drivers that make individuals interested in buying care insurance products for themselves. Using models that combine features from both classical statistics and machine learning techniques, we depict the characteristics of potential buyers based on key economic, social, demographic, and political factors. We find that factors relating to the awareness and understanding of LTC are extremely relevant. Self‐perceived health, behavior, and trust relationships between customers and insurers are important. Socioeconomic factors only play a secondary role in the decision‐making process. Our findings are relevant beyond the academic community and for policymakers and private insurers alike.
THE SYNTAX OF TWO TYPES OF GAPPING IN SPANISH*
Authors: Jung Wonsuk
Published: September 2022

This paper argues that gapping in Spanish is not a single phenomenon and can be derived from different source structures. The first type of gapping in Spanish involves clausal coordination and is thus derived through TP‐deletion, whereas the second type contains low coordination below TP, which allows it to be derived by either vP‐deletion or Across‐The‐Board (ATB) verb movement whose availability depends on the subject‐verb agreement patterns found in gapping. This approach also extends to cases where the conjuncts in gapping display various non‐canonical word orders, which also fall under two types of gapping and can be analyzed using the same mechanisms as those applicable to SVO‐conjuncts.
Involvement of the extracellular matrix and integrin signalling proteins in skeletal muscle glucose uptake
Authors: Draicchio Fulvia , Behrends Volker , Tillin Neale A. , Hurren Nicholas M. , Sylow Lykke , Mackenzie Richard
Published: September 2022

Whole‐body euglycaemia is partly maintained by two cellular processes that encourage glucose uptake in skeletal muscle, the insulin‐ and contraction‐stimulated pathways, with research suggesting convergence between these two processes. The normal structural integrity of the skeletal muscle requires an intact actin cytoskeleton as well as integrin‐associated proteins, and thus those structures are likely fundamental for effective glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. In contrast, excessive extracellular matrix (ECM) remodelling and integrin expression in skeletal muscle may contribute to insulin resistance owing to an increased physical barrier causing reduced nutrient and hormonal flux. This review explores the role of the ECM and the actin cytoskeleton in insulin‐ and contraction‐mediated glucose uptake in skeletal muscle. This is a clinically important area of research given that defects in the structural integrity of the ECM and integrin‐associated proteins may contribute to loss of muscle function and decreased glucose uptake in type 2 diabetes.

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Discrete Element Analysis on Mechanical Properties of Ballast Bed by Tamping in Railway Turnout Areas
Authors: Chi Yihao , Xiao Hong , Zhang Zhihai , Fang Shuwei , Wang Haoyu
Published: September 2022

Turnout is the key component of the railway tracks for trains to change direction, which is vital to operational safety and passenger comfort. Therefore, it is of great importance to perform a scientific and reasonable tamping operation for turnout areas. In this paper, based on the commercial software edem and recurdyn, a coupled simulation model of the large machine tamping device-rail-sleeper-ballast bed in the turnout area is jointly established, and the correctness of the model is verified by the test results of the lateral resistance of the ballast bed. The influence of tamping operation on the macro-and micromechanical properties of ballast bed at the switching part of railway turnout areas is studied and recommendations for the optimization of tamping operation are proposed. The results show that in the squeezing stage, strong force chains are distributed concentrately under sleepers, where the distribution range is approximately elliptical with a depth of 150 mm. After tamping, only the 200-mm ballast under the sleepers is compacted, where the compactness is increased by 5.9%. On the contrary, the compactness of the ballast in the sleeper crib is reduced by 27.4%, which is the weakest part. To ensure favorable tamping quality, the tamping sequence at the switching part of railway turnout areas is suggested to be conducted in order of first through track and then diverging track.
Stratified and Buoyancy-Induced Flow in Closed Compressor Rotors
Authors: Lock Gary D. , Jackson Richard W. , Pernak Mikolaj , Pountney Oliver J. , Sangan Carl M. , Owen J. Michael , Tang Hui , Scobie James A.
Published: September 2022

The radial growth of compressor discs is strongly influenced by conjugate heat transfer between conduction in the co-rotating discs and buoyancy-driven convection in the rotating fluid core between the discs. An accurate prediction of metal temperatures of these discs is an important issue in thermo-mechanical design, where blade-tip clearances must be controlled carefully to ensure safety and efficiency under all operating conditions. This paper presents an experimental study of the fluid dynamics and heat transfer in a closed rotating cavity, comparing results with theoretical models and introducing a new compressibility parameter χ. At large values of χ, where compressibility effects are significant, the air temperature approaches that of the shroud; such conditions suppress buoyancy effects and the flow in the rotating cavity becomes stratified, with convection replaced by conduction inside the fluid core. There are important practical consequences of stratification with significant differences in temperature distributions and stresses inside compressor discs. The influence of χ is also shown on the radial temperature distributions for the discs and on the shroud heat transfer correlations, which are compared qualitatively with previously published data collected where the effects of compressibility are relatively small. The experiments reveal that there is a critical value of χ where the convective heat flux to the shroud is zero. The radial distribution of disc temperature was that expected from pure conduction in a cylinder. A new heat transfer correlation based on measured shroud heat flux and the theoretical core temperature is presented. The unsteady flow characteristics in the cavity were also investigated, identifying coherent rotating structures across a range of experimental conditions. These cyclonic/anti-cyclonic vortex pairs generate the nondimensional circumferential pressure difference necessary for the radial outflow (of cold fluid) and inflow (of hot fluid) through the rotating core. The experiments show that the magnitude of these pressure variations can be correlated against Grashof number and at high values of χ the structures do not exist. The combined experimental and theoretical results will be of practical interest to engine designers and for the validation of computational models.