bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The resistome of the food chain: A One Health perspective
Authors: Fernández‐Trapote Elena , Oliveira Marcia , Cobo‐Díaz José F. , Alvarez‐Ordóñez Avelino
Published: July 2024

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) represents a significant global health problem which challenges Sustainable Development Goal 3 of the United Nations, with growing concerns about the possibility of AMR transmission through the food chain. The indiscriminate use of antimicrobials for the treatment of food production animals and for agricultural crop improvement, in addition to the direct discharge of livestock farm residues to sewage and the use of animal manure in agriculture, are among the factors that can facilitate the selection and transmission of AMR throughout the food chain. The study of food microbiomes has been boosted by the advent of next‐generation sequencing techniques, which have enabled gaining in‐depth understanding of the diversity of antimicrobial resistance genes present in food and associated environments (the so‐called resistome). The aim of this review is to provide an accurate and comprehensive overview of the knowledge currently available on the resistome of the most frequently consumed foods worldwide, from a One Health perspective. To this end, the different metagenomic studies which have been conducted to characterize the resistome of foods are compiled and critically discussed.
How to constitute global citizens' forums: Key selection principles
Authors: Dryzek John S. , Niemeyer Simon J.
Published: July 2024

Once imagined as a theoretical possibility, global citizen deliberation is now beginning to appear in the practice of governance. How should global citizens' forums be constituted? A largely unexamined consensus on random selection as the ideal method to locate citizen participants has fractured as its limitations become more apparent. We undertake a systematic comparative examination of random selection and its alternatives, emphasizing, respectively, demographic diversity, discursive diversity, developmental participation, and affectedness. These alternatives are evaluated in terms of how well they promote inclusive and high‐quality deliberation within the forum; how well they facilitate broader functions such as recommending policy decisions, providing information to policy makers on the distribution of informed global opinion, enhancing macro‐level deliberation, and strengthening global discourses and publics; and how well they secure the perceived legitimacy of a forum. We show how different sorts of recruitment and representation might be combined to good effect, in the context of a proposal for a global citizens' assembly on genome editing.
Soil fauna changing in after‐pine harvesting's areas along a temporal gradient of Atlantic Forest regeneration
Authors: Casaril Camila Elis , de Oliveira Filho Luís Carlos Iuñes , Floriani Mireli Moura Pitz , Baretta Dilmar , Klauberg‐Filho Osmar
Published: July 2024

Monoculture of pine alters the soil fauna community structure, but forest farms, mixed with natural areas, are restoring the original vegetation to protect, the diversity and ecosystem functions. In restoration initiatives it is necessary to consider the soil fauna. Thus, the aim of this study was to investigate how the process of restoration of the soil community occurs over time in areas after pine harvesting. Areas in natural regeneration with 4 and 10 years, pine plantations adjacent to these areas (representing previous use), and areas of natural forest (reference) were evaluated, it was evaluated three areas per treatment, with six sampling points spaced 30 m apart, totalling 18 sampling points for each treatment (n = 18). Soil mesofauna and macrofauna were collected through soil monoliths and pitfall traps. The comparison of the statistical analysis was to check for changes in the soil fauna over time (4 and 10 years) compared with that observed in secondary forest areas. The study showed that, along the natural regeneration time (4 and 10 years), it was observed increments in the diversity and evenness of the soil community and a reduction in the dominance of groups like Formicidae and increases in the community structure complexity with the resurgence of micropredators/regulators (Collembola and Acari), litter transformers (Oligochaeta, Diplopoda, Blattodea, Coleoptera (Larva), Diptera (Larva) and Coleoptera) and predators (Pseudoscorpiones, Opiliones, Symphyla and Coleoptera) after 10 years of natural regeneration, the areas have already recovered groups with important ecosystem functions, but are not yet at the level of abundance, functional diversity and community structure of native forest areas. The 4‐ and 10‐year regeneration areas present major number of soil fauna groups of native forest (20 groups in regeneration areas and 17 in the native forest areas). Even so, the forest showed a major complexity of soil fauna community structure, evidenced by the diversity. This study contributes to the understanding of natural regeneration for soil fauna along a temporal gradient and these findings can guide the conservation of regional soil fauna diversity.
The impact of COVID‐19 on the mental health of dental students at an Australian school
Authors: Akhtar S , Tissainayagam J , Lo J , Siddiqi A , Zafar S
Published: July 2024

Aims

The dentistry program is extremely demanding mentally and physically. Consequently, it can induce high levels of stress, anxiety and depression in students. There is some research in measuring these ramifications on dental students, but they lack the influence of the COVID‐19 pandemic which has brought about many fundamental changes to the curriculum of dental students. The aim of this study was to assess dental students' mental health through the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale (DASS‐21) during the COVID‐19 pandemic in an Australian dental School.

Methods

The Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours) students enrolled in years 2–5 were requested to complete an online questionnaire that included the DASS‐21 and additional questions regarding the impact of COVID‐19 on quality of life. Jamovi was utilized to conduct descriptive data analysis.

Results

179 students completed the survey with 81 males (45%) and 98 females (55%). 70.4% of the participants described elevated anxiety for the health of their loved ones and themselves during the COVID‐19 pandemic. The overall mean DASS‐21 scores were 7.1 (5.07) in depression, 4.9 (4.00) in anxiety and 6.5 (4.32) in stress.

Conclusions

The results indicate that the COVID‐19 pandemic negatively impacted the mental health of dental students. While further research is still required, it is important for universities to recognize how this pandemic affected the mental wellbeing of students so that they can implement appropriate support programs and improve dental education.

Clinical relevance

The COVID‐19 pandemic has had a profound impact on social and mental health worldwide, and dental students are notably affected. Recognized as a psychological risk factor, COVID‐19 has been linked to an increased rate of suicidal deaths. This paper underlines the importance of recognizing the full scope of the pandemic's impact on dental students, including their views and the potential effects on their physical and mental health. The study indicates a pressing need for more robust support from the organizations to improve the mental health and overall well‐being of dental students.
Ethnographic methods: Training norms and practices and the future of American anthropology
Authors: Negrón Rosalyn , Wutich Amber , Russell Bernard H. , Brewis Alexandra , Ruth Alissa , Mayfour Katherine , Piperata Barbara , Beresford Melissa , SturtzSreetharan Cindi , Mahdavi Pardis , Hardin Jessica , Zarger Rebecca , Harper Krista , Jones James Holland , Gravlee Clarence C. , Brayboy Bryan
Published: July 2024

American anthropology is engaged in significant self‐reckonings that call for big changes to how anthropology is practiced. These include (1) recognizing and taking seriously the demands to decolonize the ways research is done, (2) addressing precarious employment in academic anthropology, and (3) creating a discipline better positioned to respond to urgent societal needs. A central role for ethnographic methods training is a thread that runs through each of these three reckonings. This article, written by a team of cultural, biocultural, and linguistic anthropologists, outlines key connections between ethnographic methods training and the challenges facing anthropology. We draw on insights from a large‐scale survey of American Anthropological Association members to examine current ethnographic methods capabilities and training practices. Study findings are presented and explored to answer three guiding questions: To what extent do our current anthropological practices in ethnographic methods training serve to advance or undermine current calls for disciplinary change? To what extent do instructors themselves identify disconnects between their own practices and the need for innovation? And, finally, what can be done, and at what scale, to leverage ethnographic methods training to meet calls for disciplinary change?
Who plans for women? Representation of power in planning for climate change adaptation in Bangladesh
Authors: Dev Debashish Sarker , van de Fliert Elske , McNamara Karen
Published: July 2024

Gender considerations have been part of climate change adaptation planning in the Global South for the last two decades. Despite this, studies have reported a gap in understanding how organisations incorporate people's diverse experiences of climate risks into planning and implementing adaptation strategies, particularly for women disproportionately impacted by climate risks. Taking the case of Bangladesh, this study contributes to this knowledge gap by exploring the representation of power in organisational decision‐making arenas concerning adaptation planning. The investigation involved an analysis of five major national adaptation guidelines and 22 projects conducted in Bangladesh, in addition to in‐depth interviews with 36 development practitioners. This article argues that adaptation planning is a top‐down organisational process in Bangladesh. Decisions are undertaken in ‘inner circles’ involving experts, bureaucrats and top officials of major national NGOs and often fail to include the voices of diverse social groups affected by intersecting inequalities, including ethnicity, disability, religion, locality and, in particular, gender. The study elaborates on the need for a major change to planning and decision‐making processes to achieve adaptation planning and strategies that effectively reflect women's diversified and localised realities and allow them to respond to climate risks adequately.
Integrative analysis of ex vivo studies and microarray reveals the novel inhibitor effects of trehalose on the pathogenesis of pterygium
Authors: Durkal Yasin , İnci Kubilay , Tokgun Onur , Yilmaz Ugur , Yılmaz Banu Candan
Published: July 2024

Pterygium is a frequent eye surface condition that is characterized by a high rate of proliferation, fibrovascular development, cellular migration, corneal infiltration, and angiogenesis. We investigated that ex vivo primary pterygium and conjunctival cell cultures were generated to analyze the effect of trehalose on cellular proliferation. After trehalose treatment, we performed microarray analysis to evaluate changes in the mRNA profile. We analyzed gene ontology (GO) and KEGG pathways to identify hub genes that changed expression levels after treatment and were associated with pterygium development. We selected three genes to verify their expression levels using qRT–PCR. The study also evaluated the impact of trehalose treatment on cell migration through a wound‐healing assay. Our results suggested that pterygium cell proliferation was inhibited in a dose‐dependent manner by trehalose. 2354 DEG were identified in pterygium and conjunctiva cells treated with trehalose compared to untreated groups. Functional enrichment analysis showed that differentially expressed mRNAs are involved in proliferation, vasculature development, and cell migration. We identified ten hub genes including upregulated (RANBP3L, SLC5A3, RERG, ANKRD1, DHCR7, RAB27B, GPRC5B, MSMO1, ASPN, DRAM1) and downregulated (TNC, PTGS2, GREM2, NPTX1, NR4A1, HMOX1, CXCL12, IL6, MYH2, TXNIP). Microarray analysis and functional investigations suggest that trehalose affects the pathogenesis of pterygium by modifying the expression of genes involved in crucial pathways related to cell function.
The protective effect of karanjin against sepsis‐induced acute lung injury in mice is involved in the suppression of the TLR4 pathway
Authors: Zhang Chujie , Ma Juncong , Liu Chang , Yan Xianliang
Published: July 2024

Sepsis‐induced acute lung injury (ALI) is a severe complication of sepsis. Karanjin, a natural flavonoid compound, has been proved to have anti‐inflammatory function, but its role in sepsis‐stimulated ALI is uncertain. Herein, the effect of karanjin on sepsis‐stimulated ALI was investigated. We built a mouse model of lipopolysaccharide (LPS)‐stimulated ALI. The histopathological morphology of lung tissues was scrutinized by hematoxylin–eosin (H&E) staining. The lung injury score and lung wet/dry weight ratio were detected. The myeloperoxidase (MPO) activity and malondialdehyde (MDA) content were scrutinized by commercial kits. Murine alveolar lung epithelial (MLE‐12) cells were treated with LPS to mimic a cellular model of ALI. The cell viability was scrutinized by the CCK‐8 assay. The contents of proinflammatory cytokines were scrutinized by qRT‐PCR and ELISA. The TLR4 and MyD88 contents were scrutinized by qRT‐PCR and western blotting. Results showed that karanjin alleviated LPS‐stimulated ALI in mice by inhibiting lung tissue lesions, edema, and oxidative stress. Moreover, karanjin inhibited LPS‐stimulated inflammation and TLR4 pathway activation in mice. However, treatment with GSK1795091, an agonist of TLR4, attenuated the effects of karanjin on LPS‐induced ALI. Furthermore, karanjin repressed LPS‐stimulated inflammatory response and TLR4 pathway activation in MLE‐12 cells. Overexpression of TLR4 attenuated karanjin effects on LPS‐stimulated inflammatory responses in MLE‐12 cells. In conclusion, karanjin repressed sepsis‐stimulated ALI in mice by suppressing the TLR4 pathway.
Common functional mechanisms underlying dynamic brain network changes across five general anesthetics: A rat fMRI study
Authors: Chen Sifan , Li Bo , Hu Ying , Zhang Yizhe , Dai Wanbing , Zhang Xiao , Zhou Yan , Su Diansan
Published: July 2024

Background

Reversible loss of consciousness is the primary therapeutic endpoint of general anesthesia; however, the drug‐invariant mechanisms underlying anesthetic‐induced unconsciousness are still unclear. This study aimed to investigate the static, dynamic, topological and organizational changes in functional brain network induced by five clinically‐used general anesthetics in the rat brain.

Method

Male Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 57) were randomly allocated to received propofol, isoflurane, ketamine, dexmedetomidine, or combined isoflurane plus dexmedetomidine anesthesia. Resting‐state functional magnetic resonance images were acquired under general anesthesia and analyzed for changes in dynamic functional brain networks compared to the awake state.

Results

Different general anesthetics induced distinct patterns of functional connectivity inhibition within brain‐wide networks, resulting in multi‐level network reorganization primarily by impairing the functional connectivity of cortico‐subcortical networks as well as by reducing information transmission capacity, intrinsic connectivity, and network architecture stability of subcortical regions. Conversely, functional connectivity and topological properties were preserved within cortico‐cortical networks, albeit with fewer dynamic fluctuations under general anesthesia.

Conclusions

Our findings highlighted the effects of different general anesthetics on functional brain network reorganization, which might shed light on the drug‐invariant mechanism of anesthetic‐induced unconsciousness.
Improving compliance around protected areas through fair administration of rules
Authors: Ibbett Harriet , Dorward Leejiah , Jones Julia P. G. , Kohi Edward M. , Dwiyahreni Asri A. , Sankeni Stephen , Prayitno Karlina , Mchomvu Jesca , Kaduma Joseph , Saputra Andie Wijaya , Agustin Ika Yuni , Tryswidiarini Tyassanti , Mawenya Rose , Supriatna Jatna , St John Freya A. V.
Published: July 2024

Protected area management often depends heavily on law enforcement to secure compliance with rules. However, this can contribute to conflict between protected area authorities and local people, negatively affecting both human well‐being and conservation outcomes. Compliance is affected by many factors, including whether those who enforce rules are perceived to do so fairly, as well as the perceived rule‐related behavior of others. We used factorial survey experiments to explore how fair respondents living around protected areas in Indonesia and Tanzania perceive sanctions distributed by law enforcers to be. We presented scenarios to respondents to assess how crime type, offender characteristics, and corruption influenced their judgments regarding the fairness of administered sanctions. We also assessed how descriptive norms and corruption influenced individuals’ willingness to obey protected area rules. Data were collected from 229 people in Indonesia and 217 in Tanzania. Results showed that in both locations, lawful sanctions, such as arrests or warnings, were perceived as fairer, and sanctions that involved corruption were perceived as least fair. Attitudes toward protected area rules, corruption, and descriptive norms all influenced people's willingness to comply, whereas multidimensional poverty did not. Our results highlight the need for conservation policy and practice to move beyond narratives that focus on the need for more law enforcement. To improve protected area compliance and secure better outcomes for people and nature, conservation must focus on ensuring the fair administration of rules and enhancing the legitimacy of rules themselves.
Bringing Global Voices into Product Strategy through Design Documentaries
Authors: Han Qin , Louch Ed
Published: July 2024

Globalization has transformed design practices, with multiculturalism influencing product and service development significantly.

Incorporating global perspectives into design teams can be challenging. Learn how short documentary films inform and inspire designers to understand other cultures more effectively.
The Future of Design Justice
Authors: Baker Karen R.
Published: July 2024

From X to the social movements of 2020–2022, there is high anticipation that Web 3.0 will open more doors for growth, connections, and opportunities to create change.

OPINION | The future of technology has much potential to make the world a more equitable and inclusive place. Employing the principles of design justice can lead us in the right direction.
Engaged robots, disengaged workers: Automation and political alienation
Authors: Gonzalez‐Rostani Valentina
Published: July 2024

I investigate the impact of automation on political behavior in postindustrial societies, particularly focusing on political disengagement. I argue that structural changes in the labor market lead to political alienation due to increased economic insecurities, diminished resources from lower wages, and greater economic polarization. Using hierarchical logistic modeling with varying intercepts by country, I present evidence from survey data across several advanced democracies. I find that workers exposed to technological change are less likely to feel close to a political party, participate in elections, and take part in protests. The impact of automation on political engagement is smaller among wealthier citizens and in highly unionized environments. The political message from these interaction effects speaks to the reinforcing forces between economic inequality and automation and the role of collective organization. My findings have important implications for understanding the links between structural change in labor markets and politics, especially since disengaged workers are the reservoir for radical right parties.
Making sense of climate change in central government annual reports and accounts: A comparative case study between the United Kingdom and Norway
Authors: Edgar Victoria C. , Stewart Elaine
Published: July 2024

Taking a sensemaking and accountability perspective, this paper explores how the Norwegian and the United Kingdom (UK) central governments understand climate change in the annual reports and accounts and how this shapes its accountability. Using a thematic analysis, we find that the Norwegian central government makes sense of climate change as a global problem requiring coordinated actions with shared responsibility and accountability to international agreements. In contrast, the UK central government understands climate change as a problem for individual departments and accountability to national guidelines. Sensemaking is enabled primarily in the narratives but also visually in the UK central government. Our research contributes to climate‐related and accounting research by illustrating how central government understands climate change. Theoretically, we extend the literature on sensemaking to the public sector and how sensemaking shapes accountability for climate change.
“This whole journey was sacred”: Latter‐day Saint parents' process in coming to accept a transgender child
Authors: Bernards Julia Campbell , Hunt Quintin , Henriques Cass , Bledsoe Angie , Ostler Richard
Published: July 2024

This constructivist grounded theory (CGT) study examines Latter‐day Saint (LDS) parents' process in coming to accept a transgender or gender diverse (TGD) child and the factors that impact acceptance. Data come from interviews with 38 LDS parents of TGD children and 130 Facebook posts from the same population. Data were analyzed using CGT methodology in coding and theory construction. A model of LDS parents' process in accepting a TGD child and the factors that impact that process are presented. The results indicate that coming to accept a TGD child tends to engage LDS parents cognitively, emotionally, socially, and spiritually, and is a developmental process. We identified four stages of parents' process: assimilation of new information, deconstruction and disequilibrium, reconstruction and accommodation, and acceptance; as well as typical emotional responses in each stage. We found that factors that impacted parents' process included parents' pre‐process characteristics and contexts, religiously defined meaning making, social embeddedness, external resources, community building, and spiritual autonomy. Additionally, we found that parents' commitment to their child's wellbeing and connection with their child (i.e., attachment) motivates their process and that their personal spiritual experiences tend to guide it. Parents in the study who reached a state of acceptance expressed that their process had been both deeply challenging and profoundly, personally meaningful. This study strengthens the case for using attachment‐based therapies with this population and indicates the value of incorporating spirituality into the therapeutic work.
Methodological quality of umbrella reviews in endodontics: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Nagendrababu Venkateshbabu , Gopinath Vellore Kannan , Narasimhan Srinivasan , Acharya Anirudh B. , Dummer Paul M. H. , Faggion Clovis Mariano
Published: July 2024

Introduction

In endodontics, the number of umbrella reviews has increased significantly over the last few years, but there is no evidence that they were methodologically sound. The aim of the current study was to appraise the methodological quality of umbrella reviews in endodontics, and to identify possible predictive factors associated with methodological quality.

Methods

Umbrella reviews published in the discipline of endodontics until December 2023 were included. The methodological quality of the reviews was evaluated using a checklist consisting of 11 items. Each item in the checklist was evaluated by two independent assessors who assigned a score of ‘1’ if it was fully addressed, ‘0.5’ if it was partially ddressed, and ‘0’ if it was not addressed. Bootstrapped multiple linear regression analysis was used to examine the association between the total scores awarded and five predictor variables (a priori protocol registration, year of publication, number of authors, journal impact factor (IF) and continent of the corresponding author). The statistical significance level was set as 5%.

Results

A total of 27 reviews were included. Ninety‐six per cent of the reviews adequately reported: eligibility criteria for selecting the reviews, details of the reviews, techniques for assessing the risk of bias or methodological quality of the individual systematic reviews they included. Only 30% of the reviews adequately managed overlapping primary studies within individual systematic reviews. Among the five predictors analysed, a priori protocol registration and journals with IFs were associated with significantly greater total methodological quality scores.

Discussion

Several methodological shortcomings in the umbrella reviews published within the field of endodontics were revealed. Umbrella reviews published in journals with IFs and those with protocols registered a priori had significantly superior methodological quality scores.

Conclusion

In endodontics, authors intending to publish umbrella reviews should consider the limitations revealed in this study and follow the appropriate rules to ensure their reviews comply with the highest standards and provide accurate and dependable information and conclusions.
Preparation of low‐cost peridotite ceramic microfiltration membrane for treating industrial wastewater
Authors: Harrati Achraf , Arkame Youssef , Adlane Sanaa , Essate Ahlam , Achiou Brahim , El Bouari Abdeslam , Aaddane Abdelleh , Alami Younssi Saad , Sadik Chaouki
Published: July 2024

The aim of this work is to fabricate a low‐cost ceramic microfiltration (MF) membrane made from a new geomaterial named peridotite. The membrane was prepared by uniaxial pressing and followed by sintering. The effect of sintering temperature, in the range of 1100–1225°C, on the permeability, porosity, mechanical strength, and pore size was investigated. The optimized MF membrane sintered at 1200°C exhibits 1198.9 L h−1 m−2 bar−1 of permeability, 36.41% of porosity, 12.9 MPa of mechanical strength, and 1.56 µm of pore size. The prepared membrane was used for the MF treatment of dairy wastewater. It was found that the membrane is able to remove 88.56% and 69.54% of turbidity and chemical oxygen demand, respectively. Furthermore, the cost of the peridotite membrane was estimated to be $10.3 m−2.
Optimization of Ti2O3 thin films by magnetron sputtering and study of their photoelectric performance
Authors: Wang Wenwei , He Jialiang , Yao Yingbang
Published: July 2024

In this study, Ti2O3 thin films were successfully produced using magnetron sputtering. Through orthogonal gradient experiments, the impact of substrate temperature, sputtering vacuum, RF power, and sputtering duration on surface morphology, roughness, physical structure, and resistivity was investigated. Various analytical techniques were employed, including AFM and SEM for surface morphology observation, XRD and Raman for qualitative physical structure analysis, XPS for elemental valence examination, and the four‐probe method for resistivity measurements. The study identified optimal growth conditions for Ti2O3 films, demonstrating a low resistivity of 2.66 × 10−3 Ω cm under the following conditions: RF power of 200 W, sputtering vacuum of .6 Pa, substrate temperature of 600°C, and sputtering duration of 60 min. Additionally, the sensor arrays were efficiently fabricated using the Lift‐off method to evaluate the photoelectric performance of the films. A light responsiveness of approximately 6 µA/W was observed in the device when illuminated with 950 nm light for 10 s. This finding carries important implications for the use of Ti2O3 thin films in future photoelectric devices.
Development and structural characterisation of gelatin‐based sustainable food packaging from turkey (Meleagris gallopavo) skin by‐product
Authors: Ozcan Yilmaz , Kurt Abdullah , Yildirim‐Yalcin Meral , Toker Omer Said
Published: July 2024

In view of the environmental problems resulting from plastic‐based packaging, gelatin film production from alternative, sustainable sources are extremely important. The objective of this study was to utilise a major source of collagen derived from poultry waste to produce and characterise turkey skin gelatin films (TGF). TGFs were produced at different glycerol concentrations (20%, 30% and 40%) via solvent casting technique. TGFs characteristics were also compared with the bovine gelatin films (BGF). The thermal structural development of TGF solutions to form a film network was not affected by the glycerol content in the temperature sweep test. This property was determined earlier and at higher temperatures in TGF (22 °C–23 °C) than in BGF (19 °C). As the glycerol ratio increased, the moisture content increased from 14.80% to 22.46%, while the thickness (36 μm) and density (1.134–1.247 g cm−3) of TGFs remained constant due to the compact structures. The water vapour transmission rates of TGFs and BGF were similar (P >0.05), ranging from 0.48 to 0.53 g mm m−2 h−1 kPa−1. Lower solubility was found for TGF20 (44.78%) and TGF30 (63.59%) films compared to BGF30 (63.59%). TGF20 exhibited the highest tensile strength and lowest elongation at break values. TGF40 and BGF30 demonstrated the highest flexibility and extensibility (P >0.05). In XRD analysis, TG40 demonstrated a less amorphous film structure compared to BG30, since the increased interaction due to glycerol provided a more ordered polymeric structure. TG20 and TG30 showed lower decomposition rates and higher residue levels, indicating their higher thermal stability. Thus, gelatin films based on turkey skin could be the alternative natural biodegradable films with suitable glycerol content for desired mechanical, barrier and thermal properties.
High prevalence of diabetes in a regional Australian hospital highlights the need to prioritise inpatient diabetes care
Authors: Fogarty Michael , Hung Annie , Fearnside Katie , Hazara Ali , Goh Amanda , Agarwal Ankira , Siever Miriam , Kyi Mervyn , Barmanray Rahul , Wang Ray , Johnson Douglas , Puri Gaurav , Fourlanos Spiros
Published: July 2024

Regional centres have smaller workforces in acute diabetes care compared to their metropolitan counterparts. A cross‐sectional audit performed at Albury Hospital identified a high prevalence (34%) of diabetes for inpatients compared with metropolitan centres. The high prevalence highlights the need for all healthcare services to consider appropriate resources for the management of diabetes in people admitted to hospital.
Early postoperative infection in patient with IgM deficiency
Authors: Chan Kayen , Loh Charles Yuen Yung
Published: July 2024

Selective IgM deficiency is a rare immunological disorder, with patients presenting with recurrent infections and allergic manifestations. However, the association with early postoperative infection has not been widely reported in the literature. We describe a rare case of a patient who had an early wound infection 1 day after excision of a Merkel cell carcinoma from his right buttock and was later found to have decreased IgM levels. Selective IgM deficiency should therefore be considered in patients presenting with recurrent infections or in patients who have previously undergone surgery and subsequently developed early infection postoperatively. In this subset of patients, extra precautions may need to be taken pre‐ and postoperatively to reduce the risk of developing a postoperative infection.
Practitioner Review: Continuity of mental health care from childhood to adulthood for youths with ADHD – who, how and when?
Authors: Adamo Nicoletta , Singh Swaran P. , Bölte Sven , Coghill David , Newcorn Jeffrey H. , Parlatini Valeria , Purper‐Ouakil Diane , Rausch Juliane , Rohde Luis , Santosh Paramala , Banaschewski Tobias , Buitelaar Jan K.
Published: July 2024

Many youths with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) experience significant long‐term impairment and may develop concurrent mental and somatic health difficulties as adults. This is associated with burden and costs for the individual and society which could be prevented through continued support in youth. Yet, only few young people transition to adult mental health services for ongoing care in different countries worldwide. We provide an overview on current transition practices, highlighting the gaps in knowledge and the barriers to effective service transitioning, while considering the large geographical variation in available guidelines and service provision. For ease of use, this review is organized in a question‐and‐answer format covering different aspects of the transition process and considering both service users' and clinicians' perspectives. Consensus is needed to identify those that require continued care, the optimal timing to arrange transition, and the most suitable services. Finally, we discuss cost‐effectiveness of transition practices, consider examples of best practice, and propose recommendations on how to improve transitional care, including the importance of service users' input into transition planning.
Evolution of dupilumab‐associated conjunctivitis in patients with atopic dermatitis after switching dupilumab to tralokinumab or Janus kinase inhibitors (RESO‐ADOC study)
Authors: Reguiai Ziad , Becherel Pierre André , Perrot Jean Luc , Boulard Claire , Fougerousse Anne Claire , Begon Edouard , Badaoui Antoine , Poreaux Claire , Parier Josiane , Liegeon Anne‐Laure , Levavasseur Matthieu , Bing Anne‐Claire , Estève Eric , Maccari François ,   the GEM reso‐Dermatologie and OMCCI Group
Published: July 2024

Background

Clinical trials and real‐life data have reported an increased incidence of conjunctivitis in patients treated with dupilumab for their atopic dermatitis (AD). Although mostly mild in severity, in some cases conjunctivitis will appear or increase after dupilumab initiation, which can lead to dupilumab discontinuation.

Objectives

(1) To describe the characteristics of patients developing conjunctivitis requiring discontinuation of dupilumab; and (2) to analyse the factors associated with a complete conjunctivitis improvement after dupilumab discontinuation and a switch to tralokinumab or Janus kinase inhibitors.

Methods

This was a multicentre retrospective cohort study that included all patients with AD treated with dupilumab who developed conjunctivitis leading to dupilumab discontinuation and switching to tralokinumab or Janus kinase inhibitors in daily practice. Data on patients, their AD and conjunctivitis were analysed at the inclusion visit (corresponding to discontinuation of dupilumab and the institution of new AD treatment), at visit 2 (3–6 months after inclusion) and at visit 3 (corresponding to the last medical visit).

Results

After multivariate analysis, the only factors associated with a complete resolution of dupilumab‐associated conjunctivitis at visit 2 and/or visit 3 were conjunctivitis duration (OR 8.98, 95% CI 1.47–55) (p = 0.018), personal history of asthma (OR 10.66, 95% CI 1.82–62.63) (p = 0.009) and switching from dupilumab to Janus kinase inhibitors (OR 17.11, 95% CI 2.94–99.66) (p = 0.002).

Conclusions

Although uncommon, severe dupilumab‐associated conjunctivitis is more frequent in daily life compared to its incidence in the dupilumab pivotal trials. In these cases, our study suggests that a rapid switch to another molecule, particularly a Janus kinase inhibitor, should be considered.
Go green: How does Green Credit Policy promote corporate green transformation in China
Authors: Tan Weijie , Yan Edward Hengzhou , Yip Wai Sze
Published: July 2024

Our study explores the relationship between Green Credit Policy (GCP), bank competition, and corporate green transformation. Previous research mainly focused on the impact of GCP on corporate green practices from a single dimension, with limited attention to bank competition and the overall process of corporate green transformation. Using machine learning methods and Baidu Maps API, we innovatively construct indicators for the green transformation of Chinese A‐share‐listed companies and bank competition from 2007 to 2020. We treat China's Green Credit Guidelines as a quasi‐experiment and find that GCP has a positive impact on corporate green transformation, with bank competition strengthening this effect. Notably, the influence of state‐owned banks and foreign banks is more pronounced. Mechanism analysis indicates that alleviating financing constraints and promoting green behavior are critical mechanisms through which GCP affects green transformation. Furthermore, this effect is more pronounced in state‐owned enterprises, companies with high environmental transparency, regulated industries, and regions with stronger environmental regulations.
Effect and mechanism of Tricholoma matsutake extract combined with bakuchiol and ergothioneine on UVB‐induced skin aging
Authors: Hu Lu , Weng Jiyu , Wang Ziqin , Huang Chujie , Zhang Lanyue
Published: July 2024

Background

Aging is a physiological phenomenon in the process of life, and skin aging has a significant impact on human appearance. Therefore, the search for methods to delay skin aging is of great significance for improving the quality of human life.

Materials and Methods

This study investigated the anti‐photoaging effect of Tricholoma matsutake (T) extract composition combined with bakuchiol (B) and ergothioneine (E), and explored its potential mechanism through transcriptome, metabolomics, and network pharmacology.

Results

57 main chemical components are identified from the ethanol extract of T. matsutake (T), including D‐carnitine (24.55%), α,α‐trehalose (15.56%), DL malic acid (8.99%), D‐(−)‐quinic acid (7.46%), erucamide (7.04%) and so on. After TBE treatment, inflammation of the mice dorsal skin is significantly minimized. Hematoxylin and eosin (H&E) staining and toluidine blue staining reveal that TBE has an anti‐inflammatory effect on the back skin tissue of mice. Masson staining shows that TBE has a repair effect on mice dorsal skin tissue. In addition, the inflammatory factors (IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α) in the mice dorsal skin tissues are significantly reduced but collagen (COL‐1) is significantly increased. By cellular immunofluorescence assay, TBE is shown to promote PPAR‐α expression in cells. Transcriptomics, metabolomics, and network pharmacology have revealed that TBE can regulate exogenous stimuli and cancer‐related signaling pathways to prevent skin aging.

Conclusion

The results suggest that TBE can be a beneficial supplement to natural anti‐aging.
Anatomical considerations of medial eye wrinkles: Guidelines for botulinum neurotoxin injections
Authors: Yi Kyu‐Ho , Wan Jovian
Published: July 2024

Crow's feet lines in the lateral canthal region are a common concern among aging patients, initially appearing as dynamic wrinkles during facial expressions and becoming more pronounced with age. Botulinum neurotoxin temporarily paralyzes muscles by inhibiting acetylcholine release, smoothing wrinkles and enhancing skin's youthful appearance. Effective treatment requires tailored approaches considering individual anatomy and muscle activity. Recent cadaveric studies identified the tear trough muscle, emphasizing its role in infraorbital support and aging. Clinically, patients often present medial eye wrinkles after BoNT treatment for crow's feet, prompting exploration of underlying mechanisms and management strategies. Three cases demonstrated that medial BoNT injections in the orbicularis oculi muscle significantly improve medial eye wrinkles and tear trough appearance. The study underscores the importance of understanding muscle hyperactivity and anatomical variations for precise treatment. Enhanced injection techniques targeting specific areas can achieve better outcomes and minimize complications, particularly in culturally sensitive regions where facial expressions are valued. This research highlights the necessity for comprehensive anatomical knowledge and patient‐specific treatment strategies to address medial eye wrinkles effectively.
Medical assessments for abuse and neglect in contacts of maltreated children
Authors: Kellogg Nancy D. , Lukefahr James L. , Koek Wouter
Published: July 2024

Aim

Identifying abuse or neglect in one child (index) implicates risk to other children residing in the same home (contacts). While child protection investigators may interview and visually examine contacts, there is lack of consensus regarding when contacts should have a medical assessment. Our goal was to describe the prevalence, characteristics and predictors of abuse and neglect among contacts medically assessed by a child maltreatment evaluation centre over a 5‐year period.

Methods

Records of 381 maltreated index children and their 588 contacts were reviewed. Abuse or neglect was diagnosed in 15% of contact children.

Results

When index children had more than one type of maltreatment or more than three risk factors, their contacts were more likely to be neglected or abused, respectively. Failure to thrive, patterned injuries, and unmet medical needs were the most common findings among maltreated contacts, and most were diagnosed with injuries or conditions that would not be evident to a child protection investigator.

Conclusions

Clinicians should consider evaluating contacts of maltreated children who have multiple risk factors or maltreatment types. These evaluations should include a careful assessment for injuries, growth and unmet medical needs.
Effects of Hermetia illucens larvae meal and astaxanthin on intestinal histology and expression of tight junction proteins in weaned piglets
Authors: Szczepanik Kinga , Dobrowolski Piotr , Świątkiewicz Malgorzata
Published: July 2024

The weaning phase in piglets causes significant physiological stress, disrupts intestinal integrity and reduces productivity, necessitating strategies to improve intestinal health and nutrient absorption. While current research highlights the role of diet in mitigating these adverse effects, identifying effective dietary supplements remains a challenge. This study evaluated the effects of Hermetia illucens (HI) larvae meal and astaxanthin (AST) on the intestinal histology of weaned piglets. In a controlled experiment, 48 weaned piglets were divided into six groups and received varying levels of HI larval meal (2.5% and 5%) and AST in their diets. The methodology involved comprehensive histological examinations of the small intestine, assessing absorption area, villi elongation, crypt depth, goblet cells, enterocytes and expression of ileal tight junction (TJ) proteins. The study found that HI larval meal significantly improved nutrient absorption in the jejunum and ileum (p < 0.001), thereby enhancing feed conversion. AST supplementation increased the number of enterocytes (p < 0.001). Both HI larval meal and AST positively affected intestinal morphology and function, increasing muscularis muscle mass and villi elongation (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). The 2.5% HI meal improved the villi length to crypt depth ratio and slightly increased the goblet cell count (both p < 0.05). Ki‐67 antibody analysis showed increased cell proliferation in the duodenal and jejunal crypts, particularly with the 2.5% HI meal (p < 0.001). Insect meal did not affect TJ protein expression, indicating that it had no effect on intestinal permeability. These findings suggest that HI larval meal and AST can enhance the intestinal wellness and productivity of weaned piglets.
The photosynthetic performance and photoprotective role of carotenoids response to light stress in intertidal red algae Neoporphyra haitanensis
Authors: Huang Yongbo , Weng Ziyu , Li Shuang , Zhang Shuyu , Chen Haimin , Luo Qijun , Yang Rui , Liu Tao , Wang Tiegan , Zhang Peng , Chen Juanjuan
Published: July 2024

Neoporphyra haitanensis, a red alga harvested for food, thrives in the intertidal zone amid dynamic and harsh environments. High irradiance represents a major stressor in this habitat, posing a threat to the alga's photosynthetic apparatus. Interestingly, N. haitanensis has adapted to excessive light despite the absence of a crucial xanthophyll cycle‐dependent photoprotection pathway. Thus, it is valuable to investigate the mechanisms by which N. haitanensis copes with excessive light and to understand the photoprotective roles of carotenoids. Under high light intensities and prolonged irradiation time, N. haitanensis displayed reduction in photosynthetic efficiency and phycobiliproteins levels, as well as different responses in carotenoids. The decreased carotene contents suggested their involvement in the synthesis of xanthophylls, as evidenced by the up‐regulation of lycopene‐β‐cyclase (lcyb) and zeaxanthin epoxidase (zep) genes. Downstream xanthophylls such as lutein, zeaxanthin, and antheraxanthin increased proportionally to light stress, potentially participating in scavenging reactive oxygen species (ROS). When accompanied by the enhanced activity of ascorbate peroxidase (APX), these factors resulted in a reduction in ROS production. The responses of intermediates α‐cryptoxanthin and β‐cryptoxanthin were felt somewhere between carotenes and zeaxanthin/lutein. Furthermore, these changes were ameliorated when the organism was placed in darkness. In summary, down‐regulation of the organism's photosynthetic capacity, coupled with heightened xanthophylls and APX activity, activates photoinhibition quenching (qI) and antioxidant activity, helping N. haitanensis to protect the organism from the damaging effects of excessive light exposure. These findings provide insights into how red algae adapt to intertidal lifestyles.
Serum‐free light chains as a dependable biomarker for stratifying patients with metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Liguori Antonio , D'Ambrosio Francesca , Napodano Cecilia , Gentili Vanessa , Giustiniani Maria Cristina , Pompili Maurizio , Grieco Antonio , Rapaccini Gianludovico , Urbani Andrea , Gasbarrini Antonio , Basile Umberto , Miele Luca ,   FPG‐UCSC PROMETEO Research Group
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Adaptive immunity is gaining a significant role in progression of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD). B‐cell activity can be assessed by serum‐free light chains (sFLCs) k and λ levels. The objective of the present investigation is to examine the utility of sFLCs as non‐invasive biomarkers for the stratification of MASLD.

Methods

We enrolled a consecutive cohort from an outpatient liver unit. Diagnosis of metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatohepatitis (MASH) was made with liver biopsy according to current guidelines. Compensated advanced chronic liver disease (cACLD) and clinically significant portal hypertension (CSPH) were defined according to Baveno VII criteria. sFLCs were measured by turbidimetry using an immunoassay.

Results

We evaluated 254 patients, 162/254 (63.8%) were male. Median age was 54 years old, and the median body mass index was 28.4 kg/m2. A total of 157/254 (61.8%) subjects underwent liver biopsy: 88 had histological diagnosis of MASH, 89 were considered as simple metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver (MASL) and 77/254 (30.3%) patients with compensated metabolic dysfunction‐associated cirrhosis. By using Baveno VII criteria, 101/254 (39.7%) patients had cACLD; among them, 45/101 (44.5%) had CSPH. Patients with cACLD showed higher sFLC levels compared with patients without cACLD (p < .01), and patients with CSPH showed higher sFLC levels than patients without CSPH (p < .01). At multivariable analysis, sFLCs were associated with cACLD (p < .05) independently from γ‐globulins and other known dysmetabolic risk factors. κFLC was associated with CSPH (p < .05) independently from γ‐globulins and other known dysmetabolic risk factors.

Conclusion

sFLCs could be a simple biomarker for stratification of cACLD in MASLD patients.