bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Compelled to Compete: Rendering Climate Change Vulnerability Investable
Authors: Thomas Kimberley Anh
Published: March 2023

The imperative for vulnerable populations to adapt to greater environmental variability is increasing in lockstep with the onset of wide‐ranging climate change impacts. However, while critical adaptation research emphasizes the necessity of addressing the underlying drivers of vulnerability to climate change, mainstream approaches to adaptation stress economic growth as a prerequisite for climate responses. Accordingly, capital‐intensive adaptation measures promote competitiveness to spur economic growth in the Vietnamese Mekong Delta, where more than 18 million people face environmental hazards such as seawater intrusion, flood, drought and cyclones. This study evaluates competitiveness as a mandate for effective climate change adaptation. It finds that adaptation can advance either competition or vulnerability reduction, but it cannot logically or pragmatically pursue both.
Successful endoscopic ultrasound‐guided hepaticogastrostomy using “mirror image technique” for obstructive jaundice with complete situs inversus viscerum
Authors: Takahashi Kosuke , Ozawa Eisuke , Nakao Kazuhiko
Published: March 2023

Watch a video of this article.
Performance of two‐dimensional shear wave elastography and transient elastography compared to liver biopsy for staging of liver fibrosis
Authors: Kovatsch Audrey , Honcharova‐Biletska Hanna , Segna Daniel , Steigmiller Klaus , Blümel Sena , Deibel Rudolf A. , Kühlewindt Tobias , Leinenkugel Georg , Müller Sandra , Furrer Eva , Schawkat Khoschy , Reiner Cäcilia S. , Weber Achim , Müllhaupt Beat , Scharl Michael , Gubler Christoph , Jüngst Christoph
Published: March 2023

Background

Staging of liver fibrosis traditionally relied on liver histology; however, transient elastography (TE) and more recently two‐dimensional shear wave elastography (2D‐SWE) evolved to noninvasive alternatives. Hence, we evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of 2D‐SWE assessed by the Canon Aplio i800 ultrasound system using liver biopsy as reference and compared the performance to TE.

Methods

In total, 108 adult patients with chronic liver disease undergoing liver biopsy, 2D‐SWE and TE were enrolled prospectively at the University Hospital Zurich. Diagnostic accuracies were evaluated using the area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) analysis, and optimal cut‐off values by Youden's index.

Results

Diagnostic accuracy of 2D‐SWE was good for significant (≥F2; AUROC 85.2%, 95% confidence interval (95%CI):76.2–91.2%) as well as severe fibrosis (≥F3; AUROC 86.8%, 95%CI: 78.1–92.4%) and excellent for cirrhosis (AUROC 95.6%, 95%CI: 89.9–98.1%), compared to histology. TE performed equally well (significant fibrosis: 87.5%, 95%CI: 77.7–93.3%; severe fibrosis: 89.7%, 95%CI: 82.0–94.3%; cirrhosis: 96%, 95%CI: 90.4–98.4%), and accuracy was not statistically different to 2D‐SWE. 2D‐SWE optimal cut‐off values were 6.5, 9.8 and 13.1 kPa for significant fibrosis, severe fibrosis and cirrhosis, respectively.

Conclusions

Performance of 2D‐SWE was good to excellent and well comparable with TE, supporting the application of this 2D‐SWE system in the diagnostic workup of chronic liver disease.
The effects of pine mistletoe (Viscum album subsp. austriacum) on the growth of Scots pine and Crimean pine in Turkey
Authors: Sakici Oytun Emre , Özcan Gonca Ece , Seki Mehmet , Sağlam Fadime
Published: March 2023

In this study, the effect of pine mistletoe (Viscum album subsp. austriacum) on basal area increment of Crimean pine and Scots pine was investigated. Dendrochronological data were collected from 223 (71 uninfected and 152 infected) Crimean pines and 195 (77 uninfected and 118 infected) Scots pines located in Kastamonu province of Turkey in 2014. Infected sample trees were classified as light, moderate or severe infection levels. Growth trends and basal area increment loses were compared between uninfected and infected trees for the periods of the last 10, 20 and 30 years. In addition, infection status of forest stands was investigated using temporary sample plots; 27 plots in Crimean pine stands and 26 plots in Scots pine. Results demonstrated that basal area increments were negatively affected by pine mistletoe for both species. Mean basal area increment losses of infected trees for the last decade were determined as 24% for Scots pine and 26% for Crimean pine. Basal area increment losses varied by infection levels (light, moderate and severe) as follows: 25%, 20% and 28% for Scots pines and 20%, 32% and 9% for Crimean pines. Scots pine stands were more severely infected by pine mistletoe than Crimean pine stands. There were negative correlations between number of infected trees and stand density for both species, while positive correlation was detected between the number of infected trees and mean diameter for Scots pine. The results of this study indicate that the pine mistletoe infection has negative effect on radial growth of Scots pine and Crimean pine trees. The results can be an important contribution to the forest management and protection activities in mistletoe‐infected stands.
Blood biomarkers in mild cognitive impairment patients: Relationship between analytes and progression to Alzheimer disease dementia
Authors: Silva‐Spínola Anuschka , Lima Marisa , Leitão Maria João , Bernardes Catarina , Durães João , Duro Diana , Tábuas‐Pereira Miguel , Santana Isabel , Baldeiras Inês
Published: March 2023

Background and purpose

Blood‐based biomarkers are promising tools for the diagnosis of Alzheimer disease (AD) at prodromal stages (mild cognitive impairment [MCI]) and are hoped to be implemented as screening tools for patients with cognitive complaints. In this work, we evaluated the potential of peripheral neurological biomarkers to predict progression to AD dementia and the relation between blood and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) AD markers in MCI patients referred from a general neurological department.

Methods

A group of 106 MCI patients followed at the Neurology Department of Coimbra University Hospital was included. Data regarding baseline neuropsychological evaluation, CSF levels of amyloid β 42 (Aβ42), Aβ40, total tau (t‐Tau), and phosphorylated tau 181 (p‐Tau181) were available for all the patients. Aβ42, Aβ40, t‐Tau, p‐Tau181, glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP), and neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels were determined in baseline stored serum and plasma samples by commercial SiMoA (Single Molecule Array) assays. Progression from MCI to AD dementia was assessed at follow‐up (mean = 5.8 ± 3.4 years).

Results

At baseline, blood markers NfL, GFAP, and p‐Tau181 were significantly increased in patients who progressed to AD at follow‐up (p < 0.001). In contrast, plasma Aβ42/40 ratio and t‐Tau showed no significant differences between groups. NfL, GFAP, and p‐Tau181 demonstrated good diagnostic accuracy to identify progression to AD dementia (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.81, 0.80, and 0.76, respectively), which improved when combined (AUC = 0.89). GFAP and p‐Tau181 were correlated with CSF Aβ42. Association of p‐Tau181 with NfL was mediated by GFAP, with a significant indirect association of 88% of the total effect.

Conclusions

Our findings highlight the potential of combining blood‐based GFAP, NfL, and p‐Tau181 to be applied as a prognostic tool in MCI.
The compassionate type? Personality, self‐compassion, and postdivorce adjustment among Iranian women
Authors: Ghasemi Azin , Hall Scott S. , Shahi Hassan , Meyers Lawrence S. , Karami Jahangir , Mehrabani Arash Rahro , Rahandaz Zahra , Boehnke Klaus
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study examined whether the association between the Big Five personality dimensions and postdivorce adjustment (PDA) was mediated by Neff's concept of self‐compassion.

Background

Research on marital psychology suggests that multiple psychological factors are associated with PDA. However, the mechanisms by which these factors affect PDA have received much less attention. Accordingly, in the current study, the potential mediation effect of self‐compassion was investigated. Cultural context of PDA is considered.

Method

A total of 334 divorced Iranian women took part in the study. Participants completed a sociodemographic survey, including the Ten‐Item Personality Inventory (TIPI), the Self‐Compassion Scale–Short Form (SCS‐SF), and Fisher's Divorce Adjustment Scale (FDAS).

Results

Correlational analyses and structural equation modeling showed a significant positive association of self‐compassion with self‐reported measures of the positive factors of PDA (feeling of self‐worth, disentanglement from love relationships, social self‐worth, and rebuilding social trust), and the personality traits of emotional stability, extraversion, and conscientiousness. There also was a significant negative association with the negative factors of PDA (symptoms of grief and feeling of self‐anger) and the personality traits of agreeableness, and openness to experience. Self‐compassion significantly predicted variation in positive psychological health beyond that attributable to personality; it partially mediated the relationship between personality and postdivorce adjustment.

Conclusions

Personality appears to relate to postdivorce adjustment through self‐compassion. The role of Iranian cultural characteristics in perceiving the magnitude of stress resulting from divorce, and postdivorce adjustment is discussed.

Implications

Enhancing self‐compassion among divorced Iranian women seems to be a worthwhile approach to divorce counseling.
Investigation of the effect of sugammadex on glutamate‐induced neurotoxicity in C6 cell line and the roles played by nitric oxide and oxidative stress pathways
Authors: Dirik Hasan , Joha Ziad
Published: March 2023

This experiment was intended to evaluate the effect of sugammadex on the cytotoxicity induced by glutamate, involving the nitric oxide and oxidative stress pathways. C6 glioma cells were used in the study. Glutamate was given to cells in the glutamate group for 24 h. Sugammadex at different concentrations was given to cells in the sugammadex group for 24 h. Cells in the sugammadex + glutamate group were pre‐treated with sugammadex at various concentrations for 1 h and then exposed to glutamate for 24 h. XTT assay was used to assess cell viability. Levels of nitric oxide (NO), neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS), total antioxidant (TAS), and total oxidant (TOS) in the cells were calculated using commercial kits. Apoptosis was detected by TUNEL assay. Sugammadex at concentrations of 50 and 100 μg/mL significantly enhanced the cell viability in C6 cells after the cytotoxicity induced by glutamate (p < 0.001). Moreover, sugammadex considerably decreased the levels of nNOS NO and TOS and the number of apoptotic cells and increased the level of TAS (p < 0.001). Sugammadex has protective and antioxidant properties on cytotoxicity and could be an effective supplement for neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer and Parkinson if further research in vivo supports this claim.
Oral health inequalities in Swedish older adults over 25 years of follow‐up
Authors: Åstrøm Anne Nordrehaug , Mastrovito Berit , Sannevik Josefine , Lie Stein Atle
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to describe inequalities in tooth loss and dissatisfaction with teeth related to time‐invariant and time‐variant socio‐demographic characteristics and use of dental care across the middle and older life course and to assess whether oral health inequalities remain stable, widen or narrow from age 50 to 75.

Materials and Methods

In 1992, 6346 residents, aged 50, consented to participate in a prospective cohort study including postal questionnaire follow‐ups every fifth year until age 75. Tooth loss and dissatisfaction with teeth were assessed at each survey wave in addition to socio‐demographic factors and use of dental care. Multivariable logistic regression, generalised estimating equations, GEE, and random intercept logistic mixed models were used for estimation of population‐averaged and person‐specific odds ratio. Interaction terms of each covariate with the time indicator were added to test whether inequalities changed across time.

Results

Person‐specific OR and 95% CI estimates for tooth loss varied from 1.29 (1.09‐1.53) (unmarried vs married) to 9.20 (6.07‐13.94) (foreign country vs native). Estimated ORs for tooth dissatisfaction ranged from 1.33 (1.15‐1.55) (unmarried vs married) to 2.59 (2.15‐3.11) (smoking vs no smoking). Inequalities in tooth loss according to sex, educational level and country of birth were smaller in magnitude in 2017 than in 1992. Inequality estimates in dissatisfaction with teeth according to use of dental care and perceived health were, respectively, smaller and greater at older than at younger age.

Conclusion

Socio‐demographic inequalities in oral health persisted from age 50 to 75 and varied in magnitude across time. Both convergence and widening of disparities in oral health occurred towards older ages.
Predictors of COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy among Jordanian older adults
Authors: Abu Kamel Andaleeb M. , Alnazly Eman , Shawish Najah Sami
Published: March 2023

Aims

We examined the predictive factors of COVID‐19 vaccine hesitancy among Jordanian older adults.

Background

Vaccine hesitancy among older adults is influenced by several factors.

Design

This study employed a cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Online surveys were conducted between November 2021 and April 2022. The surveys included socio‐demographic variables, COVID‐19 vaccine‐related information, the Vaccine Attitude Examination Scale and the Fear of COVID‐19 Scale.

Results

Participants were 350 older adults (aged 68.1 ± 7.21 years; 62.9% females). Linear regression analyses were performed to assess the impact of correlated variables on the explanation of anti‐vaccination attitudes. Participants reported a moderate level of fear of COVID‐19 and a moderate level of hesitancy towards receiving the COVID‐19 vaccine. The linear regression model revealed that several chronic illnesses, fear of COVID‐19 and number of family incidences of COVID‐19 explained vaccine hesitancy.

Conclusions

Raising awareness among older adults about the desired effect of the COVID‐19 vaccine in terms of minimizing hospitalization, disease consequences and mortality rate is required. Well‐tailored interventions are essential to reduce vaccine hesitancy among older adults and reinforce the importance of receiving the vaccine for those with multi‐morbidities.
Prevalence of grief symptoms and disorders in the time of COVID‐19 pandemic: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Kustanti Christina Yeni , Jen Hsiu‐Ju , Chu Hsin , Liu Doresses , Chen Ruey , Lin Hui‐Chen , Chang Ching‐Yi , Pien Li‐Chung , Chiang Kai‐Jo , Chou Kuei‐Ru
Published: March 2023

Millions of people worldwide are mourning the loss of loved ones due to the COVID‐19 epidemic, which may adversely impact their mental health. This meta‐analysis aimed to investigate pandemic grief symptoms and disorders for developing policy, practice, and research priorities. The databases of Cochrane, Embase, Ovid‐MEDLINE, WHO COVID‐19, NCBI SARS‐CoV‐2, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, and Science Direct were comprehensively searched until July 31, 2022. The Joanna Briggs Institute's and Hoy's criteria were used to evaluate the studies. A pooled prevalence was presented in a forest plot figure with a corresponding 95% confidence interval (CI) and prediction interval. Between‐study heterogeneity was measured using the I2 and Q statistics. Variations in the prevalence estimates in different subgroups were examined by moderator meta‐analysis. The search identified 3677 citations, of which 15 studies involving 9289 participants were included in the meta‐analysis. The pooled prevalence rate of grief symptoms was 45.1% (95%CI: 32.6%–57.5%), and grief disorder was 46.4% (95%CI: 37.4%–55.5%). Grief symptoms were significantly higher in <6 months (45.8%; 95%CI: 26.3%–65.3%) compared to the period of more than 6 months. Unfortunately, moderator analyses for grief disorders could not be performed due to limited studies. The prevalence of grief problems during the pandemic was substantially higher than in non‐pandemic conditions; therefore, it is crucial to strengthen bereavement support to reduce psychological distress. The results provide a foundation for nurses and healthcare workers to anticipate a heightened need for support and provision of bereavement care in the post‐pandemic era.
Delving into instructor‐led feedback interventions informed by learning analytics in massive open online courses
Authors: Topali Paraskevi , Chounta Irene‐Angelica , Martínez‐Monés Alejandra , Dimitriadis Yannis
Published: March 2023

Background

Providing feedback in massive open online courses (MOOCs) is challenging due to the massiveness and heterogeneity of learners' population. Learning analytics (LA) solutions aim at scaling up feedback interventions and supporting instructors in this endeavour.

Paper Objectives

This paper focuses on instructor‐led feedback mediated by LA tools in MOOCs. Our goal is to answer how, to what extent data‐driven feedback is provided to learners, and what its impact is.

Methods

We conducted a systematic literature review on the state‐of‐the‐art LA‐informed instructor‐led feedback in MOOCs. From a pool of 227 publications, we selected 38 articles that address the topic of LA‐informed feedback in MOOCs mediated by instructors. We applied etic content analysis to the collected data.

Results and Conclusions

The results revealed a lack of empirical studies exploring LA to deliver feedback, and limited attention on pedagogy to inform feedback practices. Our findings suggest the need for systematization and evaluation of feedback. Additionally, there is a need for conceptual tools to guide instructors' in the design of LA‐based feedback.

Takeaways

We point out the need for systematization and evaluation of feedback. We envision that this research can support the design of LA‐based feedback, thus contributing to bridge the gap between pedagogy and data‐driven practice in MOOCs.
Research Review: The neuroscience of emerging adulthood – reward, ambiguity, and social support as building blocks of mental health
Authors: Silvers Jennifer A. , Peris Tara S.
Published: March 2023

Background

The interval between adolescence and adulthood, ‘emerging adulthood’ (EA), lays the foundation for lifelong health and well‐being. To date, there exist little empirical data – particularly in the neurobiological domain – to establish markers of risk and resilience during the transition to adulthood. This gap in the literature is concerning given the numerous forms of psychiatric illness that emerge or worsen during this period.

Methods

In this review, we focus on two strands of research with distinct importance for EA: reward sensitivity, and tolerance of ambiguity. We begin by placing these domains in a framework that considers the unique developmental goals of EA and then synthesize emerging neurobiological research on how these domains develop during EA. We then consider their role in common mental health problems that occur during this interval as well as how social support may moderate outcomes. Finally, we offer recommendations for advancing research to understand developmental process and outcomes in EA.

Findings and conclusions

Few longitudinal studies specifically address emerging adult development and the milestones that characterize this interval. Data on neurobiological development are similarly sparse. Understanding neurobiological development during this window and its links to key adjustment outcomes is crucial for optimizing outcomes.
The ecological relevance of critical thermal maxima methodology for fishes
Authors: Desforges Jessica E. , Birnie‐Gauvin Kim , Jutfelt Fredrik , Gilmour Kathleen M. , Eliason Erika J. , Dressler Terra L. , McKenzie David J. , Bates Amanda E. , Lawrence Michael J. , Fangue Nann , Cooke Steven J.
Published: March 2023

Critical thermal maxima methodology (CTM) has been used to infer acute upper thermal tolerance in fishes since the 1950s, yet its ecological relevance remains debated. In this study, the authors synthesize evidence to identify methodological concerns and common misconceptions that have limited the interpretation of critical thermal maximum (CTmax; value for an individual fish during one trial) in ecological and evolutionary studies of fishes. They identified limitations of, and opportunities for, using CTmax as a metric in experiments, focusing on rates of thermal ramping, acclimation regimes, thermal safety margins, methodological endpoints, links to performance traits and repeatability. Care must be taken when interpreting CTM in ecological contexts, because the protocol was originally designed for ecotoxicological research with standardized methods to facilitate comparisons within study individuals, across species and contexts. CTM can, however, be used in ecological contexts to predict impacts of environmental warming, but only if parameters influencing thermal limits, such as acclimation temperature or rate of thermal ramping, are taken into account. Applications can include mitigating the effects of climate change, informing infrastructure planning or modelling species distribution, adaptation and/or performance in response to climate‐related temperature change. The authors’ synthesis points to several key directions for future research that will further aid the application and interpretation of CTM data in ecological contexts.
Lactobacillus rhamnosusGG alleviates colitis caused by chemotherapy via biofilm formation
Authors: Qiu Xiaolan , Han Xuedong , Zhang Xiangcheng , Teng Lucy A , Sriwastva Mukesh K , Zhen Linlin , Li Zhi , Liu Minmin , Ren Yi , Wang Shui
Published: March 2023

Background and Aim

Severe colitis is a common side effect of chemotherapy in cancer patients. In this study, we attempted to enhance the viability of probiotics in a gastric acid environment and improve the colitis induced by dextran sulfate sodium (DSS) and docetaxel.

Methods

We purified Lactobacillus from yogurt and estimated their growth at pH 6.8 and pH 2.0. In the further investigation, the bacterial biofilm formation was used to define the mechanism by which administration of Lactobacillus rhamnosus (LGG) via oral gavage alleviates the colitis and intestine permeability of the mice induced by DSS and docetaxel. The potential benefit of probiotics on the treatment of breast cancer metastasis has been assessed as well.

Results

Lactobacillus from yogurt growth was unexpectedly faster in the pH 2.0 than in the neutral pH medium during the first hour. LGG administered in the fasting state via oral gavage significantly improved the preventive effect in the colitis caused by DSS and docetaxel. LGG reduced the permeability of the intestine and decreased the expression of proinflammatory cytokines, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6, in colitis by biofilm formation. Increasing the docetaxel dose may reduce breast tumor growth and metastasis in the lung but did not benefit survival due to severe colitis. However, the LGG supplement significantly improved the survival of tumor‐bearing mice following a high dose of docetaxel treatment.

Conclusions

Our findings provide new insights into the potential mechanism of probiotic protection of the intestine and provide a novel therapeutic strategy to augment the chemotherapeutic treatment of tumors.
Symptom severity is a major determinant of cannabis‐based products use among people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Barré Tangui , Testa Damien , Santos Melina , Marcellin Fabienne , Roux Perrine , Carrieri Patrizia , Radoszycki Lise , Protopopescu Camelia
Published: March 2023

Aims and Objectives

We aimed to identify correlates of cannabinoid‐based products (CBP) use in patients with multiple sclerosis (MS) in France and Spain.

Background

MS is responsible for a wide range of symptoms, including pain. Access to CBP differs according to local legislation. The French context is more restrictive than the Spanish one, and no data regarding cannabis use among MS patients has yet been published. Characterizing MS patients who use CBP constitutes a first step toward identifying persons most likely to benefit from them.

Design

An online cross‐sectional survey was submitted to MS patients who were members of a social network for people living with chronic diseases and were living in France or Spain.

Methods

Two study outcomes measured therapeutic CBP use and daily therapeutic CBP use. Seemingly unrelated bivariate probit regression models were used to test for associations between the outcomes and patients’ characteristics while accounting for country‐related differences. STROBE guidelines were followed in reporting this study.

Results

Among 641 study participants (70% from France), the prevalence of CBP use was similar in both countries (23.3% in France vs. 20.1% in Spain). MS‐related disability was associated with both outcomes, with a gradient observed between different degrees of disability. MS‐related pain level was associated with CBP use only.

Conclusions

CBP use is common in MS patients from both countries. The more severe the MS, the more participants turned to CBP to alleviate their symptoms. Easier access to CBP should be ensured for MS patients in need of relief, especially from pain.

Relevance to clinical practice

This study highlights the characteristics of MS patients using CBP. Such practices should be discussed by healthcare professional with MS patients.
‘Wrong’ cases and ‘wrong’ plaintiffs: intergenerational relationships and legal consciousness in China
Authors: LIU QIAN
Published: March 2023

Legal consciousness is not a monolithic concept even in the minds of individual actors. Invoking the law is sometimes viewed positively and at other times not. My study reveals that ordinary people in China consider lawsuits seeking divorce to be acceptable but strongly disapprove of lawsuits seeking intergenerational support. My detailed analysis of this sharp contrast suggests that people consider legal mobilization favourably when claims are brought by the ‘right’ people in the ‘right’ cases, but that they bitterly oppose it when the ‘wrong’ people bring the ‘wrong’ kinds of cases. In this article, I explain how these categories of ‘right’ and ‘wrong’ legal claims and plaintiffs come into being and how they shape the legal consciousness of potential litigants in China.
Burdens of the what‐if: Vicarious anti‐Black racism and stress for Black mothers
Authors: Brantley Mia
Published: March 2023

Objective

Through qualitative in‐depth interviews with Black mothers, this study explores the role of their children's experiences of anti‐Black racism on their own perceived stress—that is, vicarious racism‐related stress.

Background

Racism is a system of inequality impeding the health and well‐being of Black families. Specifically, because of the interconnected nature of mother–child relationships, vicarious racism is a pathway for Black maternal stress. This study examines two broad research questions: (1) How do mothers articulate the stress suffered due to their children's experiences of anti‐Black racism? (2) How are mothers perceiving this stress shaping their mental, emotional, and physical well‐being?

Method

This study utilized qualitative in‐depth interviews with 35 Black mothers of children in adolescence and emerging/young adulthood.

Results

Mothers in this study discussed thinking about their children's experiences of racism often or daily, an experience defined in this study as hyperawareness. Hyperawareness was the primary source of vicarious racism‐related stress for mothers, through either their children's actualized experiences via rumination or anticipated experiences via hypervigilance. Regardless of whether the experience was actual or anticipated, mothers identified the stress suffered shaping their mental, emotional, and physical well‐being.

Conclusion

Through a Black feminist lens, this article reveals how Black mothers distinctly identify what vicarious experiences of racism are, and how they generate stress within their familial context. This study extends previous family, race, and well‐being scholarship by exploring various forms of racism that may be contributing to Black maternal health and well‐being.
The exploited yet legally underappreciated apparel domain of indigenous communities: Tracing WIPO's efforts and ongoing challenges
Authors: Salar Niharika , Murthy Shrudula
Published: March 2023

The International Intellectual Property Rights (IPR) regime currently endeavours to protect complex subject matters ranging from art and fashion to software. This paper will specifically examine the key international instruments (issued by the World Intellectual Property Organization [WIPO] and those applicable in the European Union) governing the apparel industry. To that end, it will analyse the different instruments governing the sector and will also highlight in brief the various initiatives undertaken by the WIPO towards facilitating and harmonising the process of protecting the different facets of the fashion sector. Further, we will look at the current statistics available on the different databases and will gauge how the sector has fared. Over the course of the paper, the authors will highlight the gap in the protection granted to garments or cloth weaving techniques belonging to indigenous communities (such fashion articles fall under the broad domain of the traditional cultural expression of a community) ranging from handlooms and handicrafts to unique textile and design prints, motifs, symbols, accessories, and so on, as compared to international fashion corporations. The existing gaps would be analysed in the current international IPR regime which makes it challenging to apply the current norms and standards of IP to elements of traditional and cultural clothing of indigenous communities. It will locate a few examples of communities utilising IPR to protect and promote their cultural heritage in the garment industry. Continuing on this tangent, the paper will look at how the IP regime can be adequately expanded to incorporate the needs and interests of indigenous communities and promote their fashion and culture. The final part of the paper will be conclusive in nature.
Lessons from India and Thailand for Cambodia's future implementation of the TRIPS Agreement for pharmaceutical patents
Authors: Tenni Brigitte , Lexchin Joel , Phin Sovath , Kittitrakul Chalermsak , Gleeson Deborah
Published: March 2023

Cambodia is expected to graduate from least developed country (LDC) status in the near future, at which time it will be required to make patents available for pharmaceutical products and processes to meet its obligations under the Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights (TRIPS). Given its impending transition from LDC status, there is a need to balance Cambodia's intellectual property (IP) policies and regulations with public health priorities to ensure access to affordable life‐saving medicines. This will be critical to achieving universal health coverage, one of the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals. This paper examines Cambodia's IP laws and regulations to identify provisions which could reduce access to affordable generic medicines when it starts to grant patents for pharmaceuticals. It systematically compares Cambodia's IP laws and regulations applicable to patents with those of Thailand and India—two developing countries which have had some successes in preserving access to medicines despite the introduction of pharmaceutical patents. It identifies lessons for Cambodia from the experiences of Thailand and India in implementing TRIPS and using TRIPS flexibilities such as compulsory licensing to ensure access to a sustainable supply of affordable generic medicines. India's experience of implementing TRIPS offers a practical and valuable lesson in applying TRIPS for the greatest public benefit. Thailand, although it has not utilised TRIPS flexibilities as extensively as India, also offers valuable lessons in adapting and interpreting IP law to ensure sustainable access to generic medicines, especially in relation to compulsory licencing. Key recommendations for reform for Cambodia include strengthening the use of preventive and remedial TRIPS flexibilities and removing criminal sanctions for patent infringements. Cambodia should reject any TRIPS‐plus provisions in its patent legislation, avoid membership of bilateral or plurilateral trade agreements that include TRIPS‐plus provisions and avoid signing patent treaties and agreements designed to facilitate the granting of patents.
Competition mode and common ownership in a mixed oligopoly
Authors: Xu Lili , Zhang Yidan , Matsumura Toshihiro
Published: March 2023

Price competition is more intense than quantity competition in private oligopolies, wherein all firms are profit maximizers. However, in mixed oligopolies where one state‐owned public firm competes with profit‐maximizing private firms, price competition may not result in tougher competition than quantity competition. In this study, we introduce common ownership, a distinct feature of recent financial markets, into a mixed oligopoly model and investigate how common ownership affects this ranking. We show that under common ownership, quantity competition is likely to be tougher than price competition. Moreover, we find that common ownership harms welfare regardless of the competition mode. Common ownership enhances private firms' profits under Bertrand competition while these may decline under Cournot competition.
A sequential exploration algorithm for the design optimization of horizontal road alignment
Authors: Zhang Tianlong , Gao Yan , Gao Tianci , Schonfeld Paul , Wu Yuecheng , Zhu Ying , Yang Shusheng , Wang Ping , He Qing
Published: March 2023

Most computer‐aided optimization procedures for horizontal alignment optimization of roads require the use of information such as horizontal points of intersection (PIs) to determine an alignment. In these methods, to obtain parameters such as the radius of the curve corresponding to a specific PI, the previous and next PIs must be known. In this paper, a sequential exploration algorithm (SEA) is proposed, and the algorithm continuously explores the entire optimization space through certain steps. Only the parameters of the previous node are required to determine the current node's parameters during the exploration process, avoiding the tight coupling between PIs in traditional optimization algorithms. Furthermore, the proposed SEA does not require assumptions about the positions and numbers of the PIs, and it can design near‐optimal road alignments that match geometric restrictions and automatically take transition curves into account. Another feature of the proposed algorithm is that it directly optimizes the geometric element parameters based on the actual milepost, and it is a fully collaborative optimization approach that does not require secondary optimization nesting during the optimization process. Analyses comparing the optimization effects of different algorithms are performed on a numerical case, that is, a problem of avoiding obstacles, and two actual cases from the literature, that is, a new road design problem and an existing road reconstruction problem. It is discovered that the proposed SEA results in an approximately 3% to 10% improvement in optimization effects when compared to two current cutting‐edge optimization algorithms. This work offers a new perspective on road alignment optimization by merging discrete and continuous optimizations, with a discrete component handling optimization accuracy and a continuous component handling real optimization.
Color pattern complexity in dwarf minke whales (Balaenoptera acutorostrata) of the northern Great Barrier Reef of Australia
Authors: Hutchings Marissa J. , Hamann Mark , Smithers Scott G. , Daley Emily N. , Birtles R. Alastair
Published: March 2023

Complex color patterning is a characteristic feature of dwarf minke whales (DMWs; Balaenoptera acutorostrata) which has been used to photographically identify (photo‐ID) individuals and to research an aggregation on Australia's Great Barrier Reef (GBR). DMW color patterns have been described and applied in various studies, but a detailed and systematic analysis of their complexity is yet to be performed. Here, we applied a novel categorization tool to assess the variation, asymmetry, and association of several DMW color pattern elements, subelements, and their character states. Proportions, hierarchical clustering, and multiple correspondence analysis revealed a high level of asymmetric color pattern variation, with white markings dominant and associated on the right of the body. Our results will improve the citizen science driven photo‐ID of this little‐known cetacean as labor‐intensive manual methods transition to more efficient automated approaches. Such advancement will be challenging, yet beneficial for broader research into the poorly understood areas of DMW life history, evolution, genetics, social structure, and feeding. This could also potentially allow investigation into the functional significance of their color patterns.
Post‐secretory synthesis of a natural analog of iron‐gall ink in the black nectar of Melianthus spp.
Authors: Magner Evin T. , Roy Rahul , Freund Saxhaug Katrina , Zambre Amod , Bruns Kaitlyn , Snell‐Rood Emilie C. , Hampton Marshall , Hegeman Adrian D. , Carter Clay J.
Published: March 2023

The black nectar produced by Melianthus flowers is thought to serve as a visual attractant to bird pollinators, but the chemical identity and synthesis of the black pigment are unknown.

A combination of analytical biochemistry, transcriptomics, proteomics, and enzyme assays was used to identify the pigment that gives Melianthus nectar its black color and how it is synthesized. Visual modeling of pollinators was also used to infer a potential function of the black coloration.

High concentrations of ellagic acid and iron give the nectar its dark black color, which can be recapitulated through synthetic solutions containing only ellagic acid and iron(iii). The nectar also contains a peroxidase that oxidizes gallic acid to form ellagic acid. In vitro reactions containing the nectar peroxidase, gallic acid, hydrogen peroxide, and iron(iii) fully recreate the black color of the nectar. Visual modeling indicates that the black color is highly conspicuous to avian pollinators within the context of the flower.

Melianthus nectar contains a natural analog of iron‐gall ink, which humans have used since at least medieval times. This pigment is derived from an ellagic acid‐Fe complex synthesized in the nectar and is likely involved in the attraction of passerine pollinators endemic to southern Africa.
The Optimal Dose, Efficacy and Safety of Tranexamic Acid and Epsilon‐Aminocaproic Acid to Reduce Bleeding in TKA: A Systematic Review and Bayesian Network Meta‐analysis
Authors: Zheng Che , Ma Jun , Xu Jiawen , Li Mingyang , Wu Liming , Wu Yuangang , Liu Yuan , Shen Bin
Published: March 2023

Objective

The optimal dose and efficacy of tranexamic acid (TXA) and epsilon‐aminocaproic acid (EACA) in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) were under controversial, and we aimed to make comparisons between different doses of TXA and EACA in intravenous (IV) or intra‐articular (IA) applications in patients undergoing TKA.

Methods

This network meta‐analysis was guided by the Priority Reporting Initiative for Systematic Assessment and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA). According to the administrations of antifibrinolytic agents, patients in eligible studies were divided into three subgroups: (i) IA applications of TXA and EACA; (ii) IV applications (g) of TXA and EACA; (iii) IV applications (mg/kg) of TXA and EACA. Total blood loss (TBL), hemoglobin (HB) drops and transfusion rates were the primary outcomes, while drainage volume, pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) risk were the secondary outcomes. A multivariate Bayesian random‐effects model was adopted in the network analysis.

Results

A total of 38 eligible trials with different regimens were assessed. Overall inconsistency and heterogeneity were acceptable. Taking all primary outcomes into account, 1.0–3.0 g TXA were most effective in IA applications, 1–6 g TXA and 10–14 g EACA were most effective in IV applications (g), while 30 mg/kg TXA and 150 mg/kg EACA were most effective in IV applications (mg/kg). None of the regimens showed increasing risk for pulmonary embolism (PE) or deep vein thrombosis (DVT) compared with placebo.

Conclusion

0 g IA TXA, 1.0 g IV TXA or 10.0 g IV EACA, as well as 30 mg/kg IV TXA or 150 mg/kg IV EACA were most effective and enough to control bleeding for patients after TKA. TXA was at least 5 times more potent than EACA.
Exploration of California School Nurse perspectives on the impact of COVID‐19
Authors: Best Nakia C. , Donahue Eden , Agran Phyllis F. , Munk Kirsten , Rochelle Na'imah F. , Billimek John
Published: March 2023

Objective

To explore in a sample of school nurses (SN) in California the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on school nurse health services, how school nurses mitigated the impact of COVID‐19, and moral distress levels among school nurses.

Design and Methods

Nineteen (N = 19) school nurses who work in K‐12 schools in California, USA participated in a mixed‐methods approach involving qualitative descriptive design, inductive content analysis, and descriptive statistics. Interviews were conducted in August and September 2021.

Results

Five themes emerged: (1) role of the SN during the COVID‐19 pandemic, (2) coordination with school administration, (3) COVID‐19 related challenges and disruptions to care, (4) moral distress, and (5) coping during the pandemic.

Conclusion

The pandemic had a profound impact on school nurses. This study provides school nurse perspectives of the impact of COVID‐19 on services they delivered, the unique skills of school nurses essential to mitigation strategies, and moral distress school nurses encountered during the pandemic. Understanding the important role school nurses had during the pandemic is paramount to fully contextualize the contributions they made within public health nursing practice and inform preparedness for future pandemics.
Bribery and firm survival in Vietnam: Moderating effects of market competition, credit, and institutional constraints
Authors: Pham Xuan Nam , Le Thanh Ha
Published: March 2023

This paper examines the relationship between bribery and firm survival when facing different levels of market competition, credit constraints, and other institutional limitations. Using panel data from surveys of small‐ and medium‐sized enterprises in Vietnam over a 10‐year period and a semi‐parametric Cox proportional hazards model approach, we provide empirical support for the “greasing‐the‐wheels” hypothesis of firm survival. Effects are found to be more pronounced for formally registered and larger firms, explained by their greater bargaining power vis‐à‐vis public officials. Moreover, bribery as a “risk‐of‐exit” reducing strategy is found only for firms not institutionally or financially constrained and for firms operating in sectors with low levels of competition.
Successful restoration of protective immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella following MMR vaccination in adult hematopoietic cell transplant recipients
Authors: Lin Rick Y. , Anderson Anthony D. , Morris Michele I. , Raja Mohammed , Komanduri Krishna V. , Camargo Jose F.
Published: March 2023

Background

The optimal number of doses as well as the role for measurement of postvaccination titers after measles, mumps, rubella (MMR) vaccination in adult hematopoietic cell transplantation (HCT) recipients remains unknown.

Methods

In the present study, we assessed humoral immunity against measles, mumps and rubella before and after MMR vaccination in 187 adults who received at least one dose of the MMR vaccine after HCT.

Results

Among those with baseline titers, posttransplant prevaccination seroprotection rates were 56%, 30%, and 54% for measles, mumps, and rubella, respectively; and significantly lower in allogeneic versus autologous HCT recipients for measles (39% vs. 80%, p = .0001), mumps (22% vs. 41%; p = .02) and rubella (48% vs. 62%, p = .12). Among those who were seronegative at baseline, seroconversion rates after one dose of MMR were 69%, 56%, and 97% for measles, mumps, and rubella, respectively. Seronegative patients after one dose of MMR (i.e., nonresponders) seroconverted for measles and mumps after a second MMR vaccine dose.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrate successful restoration of protective immunity against measles, mumps, and rubella after vaccination in adult HCT recipients; one dose of MMR elicited protective titers in the majority of patients, and a second vaccine dose was immunogenic in nonresponders.

image
Ala vestibuloplasty improves cardiopulmonary and activity‐related parameters in brachycephalic cats
Authors: Gleason Hadley E. , Phillips Heidi , Fries Ryan , Keating Stephanie , Hamel Phillip , McCoy Annette
Published: March 2023

Objective

To evaluate the effects of ala vestibuloplasty on cardiopulmonary and lifestyle‐related parameters in brachycephalic (BC) cats.

Study design

Prospective cohort.

Animals

Client‐owned BC cats (n = 19).

Methods

Cats were assessed preoperatively by airway computed tomography (CT), endoscopy, contrast echocardiography, cardiac biomarkers, and structured owner questionnaire. Ala vestibuloplasty was performed bilaterally, and blood values, imaging, and owner questionnaire responses were re‐evaluated 8‐20 weeks postoperatively.

Results

Cats were presented for predominantly respiratory clinical signs attributable to brachycephaly. Preoperatively, all cats had stenotic nares, prolonged normalized pulmonary transit time (nPTT) (mean 5.43 ± 1.10 s), and a hyperattenuating pulmonary pattern. No complications occurred following surgery. Postoperatively, nPTT (mean 3.89 ± 0.74 s,p < .001) and frequencies of sneezing (p = .002), snoring (p = .006), open‐mouth breathing (p = .0004), and nasal discharge (p = .019) were decreased. Cats exhibited increased activity (p = .005), less frequent dyspnea during activity (p < .001), longer duration of activity before becoming dyspneic (p = .002), faster recovery from activity (p < .001), and decreased respiratory noise (p < .001). Median questionnaire scores improved from preoperative to postoperative (p < .001).

Conclusion

Anatomic, echocardiographic, and CT changes were common in this cohort of clinically affected BC cats. Pulmonary blood flow and respiratory function were improved after surgery.

Clinical significance

Stenotic nares are the predominant airway abnormality in BC cats. Ala vestibuloplasty is a safe procedure that improves cardiac and CT abnormalities and respiratory and other clinical signs in BC cats.