bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Blurring boundaries: Researching self‐tracking and body size through auto‐netnography
Authors: Fletcher Olivia
Published: May 2023

In this paper, I use auto‐netnography data to explore my experiences of self‐tracking with my Apple watch to uncover some of the ways in which the materiality of self‐tracking led me to experience an intensified form of surveillance around my body. The paper contributes to literature within digital geographies which considers the blurring of online and offline boundaries. I consider this in relation to auto‐netnography and auto‐ethnography to question the distinction between the two. I contribute to debates in fat studies around the blurring of the personal and researcher identity when supporting the Health at Every Size Approach, furthering these debates by exemplifying how the materiality of self‐tracking can intensify feelings of guilt and shame when researching the body. The paper concludes with some ethical recommendations for self‐care in the research process, arguing that future research should consider how the researcher should hold space to deal with the unintended emotional consequences that may come from research.
Using gamification to support learning in K‐12 education: A systematic literature review
Authors: Dehghanzadeh Hojjat , Farrokhnia Mohammadreza , Dehghanzadeh Hossein , Taghipour Kiumars , Noroozi Omid
Published: May 2023

Using gamification to support learning in K‐12 education has received much attention from scholars in recent years. However, there is still a lack of comprehensive understanding of how gamification should be used to effectively enhance the learning experiences of K‐12 students. The purpose of this review was to synthesize research findings on the use of gamification in K‐12 education and to propose an evidence‐informed framework. This framework will guide teachers and scholars in developing gamified learning environments that are effective in improving K‐12 students' learning. In this regard, 54 empirical studies (out of 907 peer‐reviewed articles), dating from 2008 through 2021, were reviewed using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA) guideline. The findings were systematically categorized into four essential dimensions of learning environments inspired by Biggs' 3P teaching and learning model, ie, ‘individual factors’, ‘environmental factors’, ‘learning process’ and ‘learning outcome’. The review yielded rich findings concerning each dimension, providing K‐12 teachers and scholars with a comprehensive overview of research findings on using gamification for educational purposes. Meanwhile, the findings indicated the lack of empirical studies regarding constructively aligned gamified courses, in which the different dimensions of the adopted framework are implemented and evaluated coherently. The paper concludes by presenting several suggestions and directions for future research to address this shortcoming.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Gamification has demonstrated the potential to enhance learning outcomes in K‐12 education.

There are instances where the findings suggest neutral or negative effects of gamification on students' learning outcomes.

There is a lack of a comprehensive overview of empirical findings concerning the effectiveness of gamification in K‐12 education.

What this paper adds

The study highlights the potential of gamification in enhancing cognitive, affective and behavioural learning outcomes in K‐12 education, mainly by increasing motivation, engagement and competitiveness.

The study provides a comprehensive overview of empirical studies on using gamification in K‐12 education.

The study proposes an evidence‐informed framework that can serve as a blueprint for developing constructively aligned gamified learning environments for K‐12 education.

Implications for practice and/or policy

The study presents several up‐to‐date and empirically rooted calls for future research on using gamification in K‐12 education.

The study makes evidence‐based recommendations for the effective integration of gamification in K‐12 education.
Government of Canada's teleworking and hybrid policies in the aftermath of the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Champagne Eric , Choinière Olivier , Granja Aracelly Denise
Published: May 2023

This article analyzes the evolution of teleworking and hybrid work policies in the public sector over the last two decades. It focuses on the Government of Canada, concentrating on the paradigmatic shifts brought about by COVID‐19, particularly the impact on the development of teleworking and the transformation of the workplace into a hybrid model. Based on a historical neo‐institutionalism approach, this article suggests that the pandemic has propelled the expansion of telework reforms, becoming a key driver in altering the application of both telework and hybrid policies. However, this article argues that, despite the general recognition in the effectiveness of telework and hybrid policies, there are still headways to be made, predominantly because there is still disagreement as to how these policies should be defined and ultimately applied in the federal public sector.
Interaction gene set between osteoclasts and regulatory CD4+ T cells can accurately predict the prognosis of patients with osteosarcoma
Authors: Li Feicui , Tang Haijun , Luo Xiaoting , Li Xiangde , Luo Kai , Liu Shangyu , Liang Jiming , Liao Shijie , Zhong Chaoyi , Zhan Xinli , Wei Qingjun , Feng Wenyu , Liu Yun
Published: May 2023

Osteoclasts (OCs) and regulatory CD4+ T cells (CD4+Tregs) are important components in the tumor microenvironment (TME) of osteosarcoma. In this study, we collected six osteosarcoma samples from our previous study (GSE162454). We also integrated a public database (GSE152048), which included single cell sequencing data of 11 osteosarcoma patients. We obtained 138,192 cells and then successfully identified OCs and CD4+Tregs. Based on the interaction gene set between OCs and CD4+Tregs, patients from GSE21257 were distinguished into two clusters by consensus clustering analysis. Both the tumor immune microenvironment and survival prognosis between the two clusters were significantly different. Subsequently, five model genes were identified by protein–protein interaction network based on differentially upregulated genes of cluster 2. Quantitative RT‐PCR was used to detect their expression in human osteoblast and osteosarcoma cells. A prognostic model was successfully established using these five genes. Kaplan–Meier survival analysis found that patients in the high‐risk group had worse survival (p = 0.029). Therefore, our study first found that cell–cell communication between OCs and CD4+Tregs significantly alters TME and is connected to poor prognosis of OS. The model we constructed can accurately predict prognosis for osteosarcoma patients.
Therapeutic potential of pentamidine for glioma‐initiating cells and glioma cells through multimodal antitumor effects
Authors: Tamai Sho , Ichinose Toshiya , Jiapaer Shabierjiang , Hirai Nozomi , Sabit Hemragul , Tanaka Shingo , Kinoshita Masashi , Kobayashi Masahiko , Hirao Atsushi , Nakada Mitsutoshi
Published: May 2023

Glioma‐initiating cells, which comprise a heterogeneous population of glioblastomas, contribute to resistance against aggressive chemoradiotherapy. Using drug reposition, we investigated a therapeutic drug for glioma‐initiating cells. Drug screening was undertaken to select candidate agents that inhibit proliferation of two different glioma‐initiating cells lines. The alteration of proliferation and stemness of the two glioma‐initiating cell lines, and proliferation, migration, cell cycle, and survival of these two differentiated glioma‐initiating cell lines and three different glioblastoma cell lines treated with the candidate agent were evaluated. We also used a xenograft glioma mouse model to evaluate anticancer effects of treated glioma cell lines. Among the 1301 agents, pentamidine—an antibiotic for Pneumocystis jirovecii—emerged as a successful antiglioma agent. Pentamidine treatment suppressed proliferation and stemness in glioma‐initiating cell lines. Proliferation and migration were inhibited in all differentiated glioma‐initiating cells and glioblastoma cell lines, with cell cycle arrest and caspase‐dependent apoptosis induction. The in vivo study reproduced the same findings as the in vitro studies. Pentamidine showed a stronger antiproliferative effect on glioma‐initiating cells than on differentiated cells. Western blot analysis revealed pentamidine inhibited phosphorylation of signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 in all cell lines, whereas Akt expression was suppressed in glioma‐initiating cells but not in differentiated lines. In the present study, we identified pentamidine as a potential therapeutic drug for glioma. Pentamidine could be promising for the treatment of glioblastomas by targeting both glioma‐initiating cells and differentiated cells through its multifaceted antiglioma effects.
Characteristics and response cutoff of octreotide suppression test in thyrotrophin (TSH)‐secreting pituitary adenomas
Authors: Liu Jie , Yang Yamei , Duan Lian , Chai Xiaofeng , Zhu Huijuan , Deng Kan , Lian Xiaolan , Yao Yong
Published: May 2023

Context

Somatostatin analogs are recommended for preoperative therapy in thyrotrophin secreting pituitary adenomas (TSHomas). Octreotide suppression test (OST) was designed to differentiate TSHomas with resistance to thyroid hormones, while its ability to test the sensitivity of SSA has not been fully studied.

Objective

To test the sensitivity of SSA in TSHomas with OST.

Patients

We collected 48 pathologically confirmed TSHoma patients with complete 72 h’ data of OST into analysis.

Intervention

Octreotide suppression test.

Main Outcome

Sensitivity timepoint and cutoff of OST.

Results

During the entire OST, the TSH descended maximally 89.07% (73.85%, 96.77%), while the FT3 and FT4 declined slowly [43.40% (37.80%, 54.44%) and 26.59% (19.01%, 33.13%), respectively]. The 24th hour was the timepoint wherein the stability occurs for TSH, and the 48th hour for FT3 and FT4 during OST. In the patients who received both short‐ and long‐acting somatostatin analogs (SSA), the 24‐h timepoint was the most predictive timepoint for the percentage of TSH decline (Spearman's rank correlation analysis, r = .571, p < .001), while the 72‐h timepoint was optimal for predicting the magnitude of TSH decline (Spearman's rank correlation analysis, r = .438, p = .005). In the 24th timepoint, a positive correlation was also observed between TSH suppression rate and the percentage decrease and absolute value decrease of FT3 and FT4. Furthermore, in patients treated with long‐acting SSA, the 72‐h timepoint was optimal for predicting both the percentage (Spearman's rank correlation analysis, r = .587, p = .01) and magnitude (Spearman's rank correlation analysis, r = .474, p = .047) of TSH decline. The 24th hour was the optimal timepoint with 44.54% (50% of median value of TSH in 72‐hOST) decrease of TSH being the observing cutoff. The adverse effect of OST was predominantly occurred in the gastrointestinal system and no severe event occurred during OST. Paradoxical response could occur in OST and it did not influence the effect of SSA as long as sensitivity was confirmed. A high level of hormonal control was achieved in the SSA‐sensitive patients.

Conclusion

OST can be used as an efficient tool to guide the adequate use of SSA.
Unusual presentations of chronic graft versus host disease
Authors: Okorie Chiamaka L. , Salem Iman , Scripture Andrew J. , Simmons Brian J. , Momtahen Shabnam , Yan Shaofeng
Published: May 2023

Skin is commonly affected by graft versus host disease (GVHD), a complication of bone marrow transplantation (BMT). One‐third of hematopoietic cell transplantation recipients develop acute eruption classically described as folliculocentric, maculopapular, or morbilliform, in contrast to the more common chronic presentations of sclerotic, poikilodermic, or lichenoid dermatitides. With the wider use of non‐myeloablative (reduced‐intensity) transplant therapy, various atypical presentations can occur, representing a diagnostic challenge. Herein, we report an unusual case of chronic GVHD manifested by two distinct clinical and histopathological features lacking the classical presentation. Five months after her BMT, the patient presented with a papulosquamous eruption on her neck, trunk, and arms showing a psoriasiform histopathological pattern of chronic GVHD. She also demonstrated multiple small flesh‐colored papules on her distal extremities showing a solitary syringotropic pattern of GVHD, demonstrated by interface dermatitis involving the superficial eccrine duct, as the only diagnostic histopathological feature of GVHD. This report, with review of literature, highlights the uncommon psoriasiform GVHD and the novel description of isolated syringotropic chronic GVHD.
The association between immigration status and the development of type 2 diabetes in women with a prior diagnosis of gestational diabetes: A population‐based study
Authors: Ho Jessica S. S. , Read Stephanie H. , Giannakeas Vasily , Sarma Shohinee , Berger Howard , Feig Denice S. , Fleming Karen , Ray Joel G. , Rosella Laura , Shah Baiju R. , Lipscombe Lorraine L.
Published: May 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to examine the influence of immigration status and region of origin on the risk of type 2 diabetes in women with prior gestational diabetes (GDM).

Methods

This retrospective population‐based cohort study included women with gestational diabetes (GDM) aged 16 to 50 years in Ontario, Canada, who gave birth between 2006 and 2014. We compared the incidence of type 2 diabetes after delivery between long‐term residents and immigrants—overall, by time since immigration and by region of—using Cox regression adjusted for age, year, neighbourhood income, rurality, infant birth weight and presence of hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP).

Results

Among 38,515 women with prior GDM (42% immigrants), immigrants had a significantly higher risk of type 2 diabetes compared with long‐term residents (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 1.19, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.13–1.26), with no meaningful difference based on time since immigration. The highest adjusted relative risks of type 2 diabetes compared with long‐term residents were found for immigrants from Sub‐Saharan Africa (HR 1.63, 95% CI 1.40–1.90), Latin America/Caribbean (HR 1.44, 95% CI 1.28–1.62) and South Asia (HR 1.34, 95% CI 1.25–1.44).

Conclusions

Immigration is associated with a significantly higher risk of type 2 diabetes after GDM, particularly for women from certain low‐ and middle‐income countries. Diabetes prevention strategies will need to consider the unique needs of immigrants from these regions.
“(Pseudo)cavities inside the heart: What may they unfold?”
Authors: Campinas Andreia , Cabral Sofia , Rodrigues Patrícia , de Frias André Dias , Alexandre André , Couto David Sá , Gomes Catarina , Caiado Luísa , Torres Severo
Published: May 2023

Subvalvular aortic stenosis manifesting as a subaortic membrane predisposes to bacterial endocarditis, which typically affects the aortic valve (AoV) or, less frequently, the left ventricular outflow tract (LVOT). We present the case of a 60‐year‐old woman expressing an odd form of a subvalvular aortic membrane in conjunction with a left Valsalva sinus pseudoaneurysm as a result of an endocarditis complication.
Inclusive education for all: Principles of a shared inclusive ethos
Authors: Kohout‐Diaz Magdalena
Published: May 2023

This article discusses paradoxes that, in theory and in practice, hinder the deployment of inclusive education. The first type of paradox is related to the confrontation between the humanist ideals conveyed by inclusive approaches and contemporary political discourses. These difficulties are linked to (1) the very concept of inclusion; in which the universal, particular, and singular dimensions are dialectically articulated. The paradox is also linked to (2) the orientation of contemporary political discourses in Europe; notably, deinstitutionalisation, intentions to stop specialised care and support, and the deployment of standardised software to assist assessment and learning at schools. The second type of paradox confronts the situational approach to special education needs with the contemporary trend towards homogenisation of nomenclatures and reference categorisations. Extremely vague definitions of guiding concepts lead to the devaluation of pedagogical approaches. This in turn contributes to the maintenance, or even domination, of biotechnical approaches. This comes at the cost of less attention to cooperative multidisciplinary approaches which have proven their effectiveness. These paradoxes can and should be addressed both (1) at the level of the individual ethical responsibility of professionals in the field and (2) in the context of teaching and learning practices. The article formulates four principles to enable teachers, as interpreters of diversity, to move towards an ethic that does not deny the unpredictability and uncertainty inherent in the infinite variety of forms of learning and education, but which on the contrary makes it a genuine source of innovation and pedagogical creation.
Neural correlates of photophobia in prodromal and mild dementia with Lewy bodies
Authors: Tisserand Alice , Cretin Benjamin , Mondino Mary , Botzung Anne , Sanna Lea , Demuynck Catherine , Anthony Pierre , Muller Candice , Bousiges Olivier , Philippi Nathalie , Blanc Frédéric
Published: May 2023

Background and objectives

Photophobia is a sensory disturbance provoked by light. Little is known about the association between photophobia and dementia with Lewy bodies (DLB). In this study, we aimed to identify the frequency and the neural basis of photophobia in prodromal and mild DLB.

Methods

One hundred and thirteen DLB patients, 53 Alzheimer's disease (AD) patients, 20 AD and DLB patients, 31 patients with other neurocognitive diseases (including prodromal and mild demented patients), and 31 healthy elderly controls were included in this case–control study. Photophobia was systematically looked for and compared between groups. Among a selection of 77 DLB patients, we used voxel‐based morphometry (VBM) to compare those with and those without photophobia (gray matter volume; SPM12, XjView, and Matlab R2021b software).

Results

The frequency of photophobia was higher in the DLB group (47.3%) than in the other groups (p = 0.002). The photophobia questionnaire score was higher in the DLB group than in the AD group (p = 0.001). Comparison between DLB patients with and those without photophobia showed decreased gray matter in the photophobia subgroup, in the right precentral cortex, in the eyelid motor region of Penfield's homunculus (p = 0.007, family‐wise error [FWE] corrected).

Conclusions

Photophobia is a quite frequent symptom of prodromal and mild DLB. The neural basis of photophobia in DLB involves the right precentral cortex, which could have a role in the decrease of cerebral excitability, but also the motricity of the eyelids.
Spinocerebellar ataxia type 15 caused by missense variants in the ITPR1 gene
Authors: Gazulla José , Bellosta‐Diago Elena , Izquierdo‐Alvarez Silvia , Berciano José
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Spinocerebellar ataxia type 15 (SCA15) is a degenerative, adult onset autosomal dominant cerebellar ataxia, caused almost exclusively by deletions in the inositol 1,4,5 triphosphate receptor type 1 (ITPR1) gene (ITPR1). ITPR1 mediates calcium release from the endoplasmic reticulum, and particularly abounds in Purkinje cells. It plays a pivotal role in excitatory and inhibitory actions on Purkinje cells, and alterations in their balance cause cerebellar dysfunction in ITPR1 knockout mice. To date, only two single missense mutations have been reported to cause SCA15. They were considered pathogenic because cosegregation occurred with disease, and haploinsufficiency was hypothesized as their pathogenic mechanism.

Methods

In this study, three Caucasian kindreds with different heterozygous missense variants in ITPR1 are reported. The main clinical manifestation was a slowly progressive gait ataxia with onset after 40 years of age, with chorea in two patients and hand tremor in another one, concordant with manifestations found in SCA15.

Results

The three missense variants identified in ITPR1 were c.1594G>A; p.(Ala532Thr) in Kindred A, c.56C>T; p.(Ala19Val) in Kindred B, and c.256G>A; p.(Ala86Thr) in Kindred C. Every variant was labelled as of unknown significance; however, each one cosegregated with disease and was predicted to be pathogenic by in silico tests.

Conclusions

The three ITPR1 missense variants found in this study exhibited cosegregation with disease, a result that sustains their pathogenicity. Further studies are needed to confirm the role of missense mutations in SCA15.
Investigation of the heat energy and multi‐level load on subsurface fatigue damage evolution via multi‐scale method
Authors: Hao Lianjing , Li Wei , Qian Lingyun , Sun Chaoyang
Published: May 2023

The relationship between heat energy and initial fatigue life of different metals under multi‐level loading stress and elevated temperature is introduced. The fatigue damage evolution model was established from the microscopic and mesoscopic perspectives to explore the fatigue damage and the crack initiation location at elevated temperature. Based on the method of continuous damage mechanics, the influence of multi‐level loads on fatigue cracking life and heat energy on strain energy of distribution were investigated. The mathematical model is verified by the experimental data. The model has important engineering significance for predicting the service life of parts at elevated temperature.
College‐level world language faculty background characteristics and their perceptions of online language teaching during the pandemic
Authors: Jin Li , Xu Yi , Deifell Elizabeth
Published: May 2023

The COVID‐19 pandemic enabled an unprecedented remote teaching experience for world language faculty who had to move their courses online in spring 2020. Previous studies show that faculty background characteristics affect their perceptions of and experience with online teaching. The present study examined the effect of two college‐level world language faculty background characteristics (prior experience with online language teaching and academic rank) on their perceptions of online language teaching during the pandemic (perceived value of online language teaching, self‐confidence in online language teaching, and stress felt during the pandemic). A mixed‐methods approach was adopted to analyze data collected from a large‐scale online questionnaire and follow‐up interviews. The results show very complex relationships between college‐level world language faculty background characteristics and their perceptions of online language teaching during the pandemic. Based on the findings, the study also provides suggestions for world language faculty professional development to prepare for crisis‐prompted and planned online language teaching in the future.
Power, governance and distributional skew in global value chains: Exchange theoretic and exogenous factors
Authors: Bair Jennifer , Mahutga Matthew C
Published: May 2023

The relationship between power, governance and value creation/capture is a central concern in global value chain (GVC) research. In the context of calls to develop a more expansive view of power in GVCs, we argue for retaining a focus on bargaining power, but shifting the conceptualization of bargaining power from the dyad to the network. We advance two arguments. First, we elaborate an exchange theoretic model in which skew of value capture is a function of the degree of power asymmetry inherent in the ratio of buyers to suppliers. Second, we explain how this model can be expanded to consider the role of external factors, such as the institutional and normative contexts in which exchange occurs. Rather than see these factors as contending forms of power, we treat them as forces that can affect value skew by either attenuating the bargaining power of lead firms or by moderating the distributional effects of power asymmetries between exchange partners. We conclude that an exchange theoretic approach to bargaining power in GVCs provides a parsimonious framework for explaining how inter‐firm governance shapes the distribution of value capture in global production.
Platelet factor 4 triggers thrombo‐inflammation by bridging innate and adaptive immunity
Authors: Greinacher Andreas , Warkentin Theodore E.
Published: May 2023

Platelet factor 4 (PF4, synonym: CXCL4) is an evolutionary old chemokine with proposed roles in hemostasis and antimicrobial defense. In addition, PF4 has attracted considerable attention as a crucial mediator of one of the most prothrombotic adverse drug effects affecting blood cells, heparin‐induced thrombocytopenia (HIT). Interest in PF4 substantially increased in 2021 when it was identified as the target antigen in the life‐threatening adverse effect, vaccine‐induced immune thrombotic thrombocytopenia (VITT). We address the concept that a major biological function of PF4—a strongly cationic chemokine—is to bind to negatively‐charged prokaryotic microorganisms, resulting in structural changes in PF4 that trigger a danger signal recognized by the adaptive immune system. Application of biophysical tools has provided substantial insights into the molecular mechanisms by which PF4 becomes immunogenic, providing insights into a new mechanism of autoimmunity. Binding of autoantibodies with high affinity induces conformational change(s) in the endogenous protein, which are then recognized as foreign antigen, as exemplified by the prothrombotic disorders, autoimmune HIT and VITT. The final part of our review summarizes current assays for HIT and VITT, explaining how structural aspects of anti‐PF4 pathobiology relate to assay design and performance characteristics. Currently, functional (platelet activation) assays using washed platelets detect HIT antibodies when heparin is added, and VITT antibodies when PF4 is added. Solid‐phase PF4‐dependent immunoassays using microtiter plates are sensitive for both HIT and VITT antibodies, while rapid immunoassays, in which the PF4/heparin antigen is coated on beads, are sensitive and specific for HIT, but not for VITT antibodies.
Does political affiliation impact transport policy debate?: Evidences from social media
Authors: Kaushik Kapil , Jain Nikunj Kumar
Published: May 2023

Social networking sites (SNS) have played an important role in engaging citizens to various policy discussions and debates about government, society and environment. Though SNS platforms empower citizens to express their opinion on important topics, several concerns have been raised by researchers for using SNS as discussion platform for important political, government and environmental policies. SNS platforms may be manipulated by the dominant group and citizen might also display group behaviour on these platforms while expressing their opinions of digital platforms. This study analyses political affiliations’ influence on opinion and content shared by various stakeholders on Twitter. The context of odd‐even driving policy is undertaken using text mining and statistical research methods. This research suggests that political affiliation significantly affects type and characteristics of content shared by SNS users. This study will help policymakers and researchers in better understanding of citizens responses to environmental policies on SNS platforms.
Achieving high‐energy storage performance of PbZro3‐based thin films utilizing insulation interlayer and low‐temperature annealing
Authors: Zhang Changhai , Zhang Bowen , Yin Chao , Tang Chao , Zhang Tiandong , Liu Xianli , Chi Qingguo
Published: May 2023

PbZrO3 (PZO)‐based antiferroelectric thin films are of great interest due to their high‐power density and fast charging and discharging capability. However, the problems of low breakdown strength and inferior energy storage density of PZO films have not been well solved. In this work, the insulating MgO as the blocking interlayer is inserted into PbZrO3 films (abbreviated as P/M/P), which can inhibit the electric charge transfer and enhance the breakdown strength, as well as regulation of the polarization behavior. The results show that the maximal endurable electric field is significantly improved, and the double‐hysteresis characteristic disappeared after introducing MgO blocking interlayer. The energy storage density of P/M/P films reaches 21.97 J/cm3 under 1700 kV/cm, accompanying an ultralow efficiency of 44.01% due to the severe polarization loss. Furthermore, low‐temperature annealing is performed to suppress the polarization loss, and an energy storage density of 17.27 J/cm3 accompanying a high efficiency of 75.53% is obtained at 3100 kV/cm, still exhibiting good stability after 1 × 107 fatigue cycles. This study demonstrates that combining the insulating interlayer and the low‐temperature annealing endow the PZO‐based films significantly improved energy storage properties, having great potential to be used in the dielectric capacitors.
Where are the workers? Leadership‐follower fit and behavioral work withdrawal in the logistics supply chain
Authors: Macdonald John R. , Conroy Samantha , Eckerd Stephanie , Becker William J.
Published: May 2023

With supply chains targeting increased efficiency, leadership behaviors are critical in influencing the employee experience, and thus the success of employees in organizations. Yet, behavioral work withdrawal, e.g., lateness and absenteeism, among frontline logistics employees is an acute challenge, estimated to contribute millions annually in related costs such as overtime or temporary workers. Our work seeks to capture potential causes for these withdrawal behaviors in the logistics supply chain. Extending prior work on regulatory focus theory, we propose that behavioral work withdrawal depends on fit or misfit between leadership behavior and the follower's regulatory focus. Leadership behaviors appealing to opportunities and growth (i.e., inspirational styles) are likely effective at reducing withdrawal for employees high in promotion focus, while behaviors appealing to accuracy and avoiding errors or failure (i.e., management‐by‐exception styles) are likely effective at reducing withdrawal for employees high in prevention focus. We combine survey and archival data to test our moderation hypotheses. Support is found for the fit perspective, confirming that no single leadership behavior is consistently better at reducing withdrawal, yet attentiveness to this perspective is critical as misfit increases withdrawal. These findings can help reduce overtime, employee burnout, and service delays and allow managers to reduce associated costs.
Upregulation of MAPKAPK5‐AS1, PXN‐AS1 and URB1‐AS1 lncRNAs in non‐functioning pituitary adenoma
Authors: Taheri Mohammad , Safarzadeh Arash , Bahranian Arefe , Eslami Solat , Dilmaghani Nader Akbari , Ghafouri‐Fard Soudeh , Sharifi Guive
Published: May 2023

Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been shown to be dysregulated in a variety of malignant and non‐malignant lesions including non‐functioning pituitary adenomas (NFPAs). In the current experimental study, we have selected six lncRNAs, namely MAPKAPK5‐AS1, NUTM2B‐AS1, ST7‐AS1, LIFR‐AS1, PXN‐AS1 and URB1‐AS1 to assess their expression in a cohort of Iranian patients with NFPA. MAPKAPK5‐AS1, PXN‐AS1 and URB1‐AS1 were shown to be over‐expressed in NFPA tissues compared with control samples (Expression ratios (95% CI) = 10 (3.94–25.36), 11.22 (4.3–28.8) and 9.33 (4.12–21.12); p values < 0.0001, respectively). The depicted ROC curves showed the AUC values of 0.73, 0.80 and 0.73 for MAPKAPK5‐AS1, PXN‐AS1 and URB1‐AS1, respectively. Relative expression level of PXN‐AS1 was associated with tumour subtype (p value = 0.49). Besides, relative expression levels of MAPKAPK5‐AS1 and LIFR‐AS1 were associated with gender of patients (p values = 0.043 and 0.01, respectively). Cumulatively, the current study indicates the possible role of MAPKAPK5‐AS1, PXN‐AS1 and URB1‐AS1 lncRNAs in the pathogenesis of NFPAs.
Association of the triglyceride‐glucose index with subclinical left ventricular dysfunction in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients: A retrospective cross‐sectional study
Authors: Sun Qi‐chao , Liu Jie , Meng Ran , Zhang Ning , Yao Jing , Yang Fan , Zhu Da‐long
Published: May 2023

Aims/Introduction

The triglyceride‐glucose (TyG) index is a simple and reliable indicator of insulin resistance, and is associated with the development and poor outcomes of cardiovascular disease. Subclinical left ventricular dysfunction (SLVD) is frequently detected in approximately one‐third of diabetes patients, but it has not been established whether the TyG index correlates with SLVD. We carried out this research to evaluate the relationship between the TyG index and SLVD in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients.

Materials and Methods

This was a cross‐sectional and observational study of 183 type 2 diabetes mellitus inpatients at Nanjing Drum Tower Hospital, Nanjing, China. The TyG index and homeostasis model assessment 2 estimates for insulin resistance (HOMA2‐IR) were calculated from biochemical measurements, and speckle‐tracking echocardiography was carried out. According to global longitudinal strain (GLS) by echocardiography, participants were categorized into the SLVD (GLS <18%) group or the non‐SLVD (GLS ≥18%) group.

Results

In comparison with non‐SLVD participants, SLVD participants had higher insulin resistance, as reflected by elevated TyG and HOMA2‐IR indices, as well as a higher body mass index, waist circumference and triglyceride level (P < 0.05 for each). When grouped by TyG index tertiles, an elevated TyG index was correlated with other cardiometabolic risk factors, as well as a decrease in GLS. In the multivariate logistic regression analyses, the TyG index was an independent risk factor for SLVD in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients (odds ratio 2.047, 95% confidence interval 1.07–3.914, P  = 0.03), whereas HOMA2‐IR was not.

Conclusions

The TyG index is independently associated with SLVD in type 2 diabetes mellitus patients and is a more reliable indicator of SLVD than HOMA2‐IR.
Preventing the overdiagnosis of chest sepsis in children: A quality improvement project
Authors: Bradford‐Duarte Rebecca , Milton Valerie , McKenna Jillian , Bokhari Ali
Published: May 2023

Rationale

Respiratory infections in children are one of the most common causes of hospital attendances and a common cause of sepsis. Most of these infections turn out to be viral in nature. However, the overuse of antibiotics is common and with increasing problems with antimicrobial resistance, changes to antibiotic prescribing practices need to be implemented urgently.

Aims and Objectives

To test our hypothesis that a significant number of children and young people are diagnosed with and treated for ‘chest sepsis’ unnecessarily by evaluating adherence to British Thoracic Society and National Institute of Clinical Excellence sepsis guidelines, and to implement measures to prevent overdiagnosis.

Design

A baseline audit undertaken, stratified patient risk as per NICE sepsis guidelines. Data were analysed to assess adherence to these guidelines following presentation of possible lower respiratory tract infection.

Questionnaires were sent to Paediatric doctors in local hospitals and focus groups were held to qualitatively evaluate the barriers and facilitators to preventing overdiagnosis. These informed implemented measures.

Results

The baseline audit showed 61% of children under two, who are more likely to have a viral chest infection were treated with intravenous antibiotics. Seventy‐seven percent of children had blood tests and 88% had chest X‐rays (CXRs) which are not routinely recommended. A total of 71% with a normal CXR had been treated with intravenous antibiotics.

Barriers to preventing overdiagnosis included the over‐sensitivity of the sepsis tool, anxiety and drug prescribing habits. Facilitators included visual cues and team work. Implemented changes including a revised sepsis pathway and raising awareness led to some positive changes. However, upon re‐auditing there was no significant change in the number of children being overdiagnosed.

Conclusions

Initial audit results supported our hypothesis that children were being overdiagnosed, over‐investigated and over‐treated. Despite multimodal interventions aimed at understanding the drivers underpinning these issues, the re‐audit results mirrored the baseline audit despite a transient improvement following our campaign to raise awareness and further work to change physician behaviour is required.
Trichoscopic evaluation of dental pulp stem cell conditioned media for androgenic alopecia
Authors: Kamishima Tomoko , Hirabe Chie , Ohnishi Takanori , Taguchi Junichi , Myint Khin Zay Yar , Koga Shoji
Published: May 2023

Background

Conditioned media (CM) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSC) is known to induce hair regrowth in androgenic alopecia.

Objectives

The objectives of the study were to assess the efficacy and safety of one type of MSC‐CM, the CM derived from dental pulp stem cells obtained from human exfoliated deciduous teeth (SHED‐CM) and to compare the efficacy of SHED‐CM with and without dihydrotestosterone synthesis inhibitor (DHT‐inhibitor).

Methods

Eighty‐eight male androgenic alopecia subjects with Hamilton‐Norwood Classification (H‐N C) I–VII were evaluated by trichoscopy to explore which trichoscopic factors statistically correlated with H‐N C. After being screened, 33 subjects received six SHED‐CM treatments at 1‐month intervals. Clinical severity was assessed through global and trichoscopic images from baseline to 9th month.

Results

SHED‐CM was effective for 75% of subjects regardless of disease severity, concomitant DHT‐inhibitor use, and age. Adverse effects including pain and small hemorrhages were transient and mild. We also found that clinical hair status evaluated by absolute values of three quantitative trichoscopic factors (maximum hair diameter, vellus hair rate, and multi‐hair follicular unit rate) showed a good correlation with H‐N C stages, and what is more—a scoring system of these three factors can be a possible predictor of SHED‐CM efficacy.

Conclusions

We have shown that SHED‐CM provides global and trichoscopic image improvement for androgenic alopecia, regardless of concomitant DHT‐inhibitor use.
The influence of adolescents' nutrition knowledge and school food environment on adolescents' dietary behaviors in urban Ethiopia: A qualitative study
Authors: Iyassu Abreham , Laillou Arnaud , Tilahun Kassahun , Workneh Fitsum , Mogues Sinksar , Chitekwe Stanley , Baye Kaleab
Published: May 2023

Adolescence is a critical period of physical, cognitive, and social development that needs to be supported with healthy diets. Dietary behaviours of adolescents can be shaped by their nutrition‐literacy and their interaction with parents and peers as well as their school food environment. Therefore, the present study aimed to assess factors that influence dietary behaviours of adolescents in urban Ethiopia. Sex‐disaggregated, focused group discussions (n = 70) were conducted in 36 private and government schools (n = 12/city) among adolescents (n = 432) 15–19 years of age in Addis Ababa, Bahir Dar, and Dire Dawa. Photovoice was applied in a subgroup of participants (n = 216) to gain further insights into adolescents' perception of their school food environment. Key informant interviews were conducted among school principals (n = 36). Adolescents had a relatively good nutrition knowledge and recognised the importance of diverse diets, but misperceptions also existed. They identified fruit and vegetables as healthy foods, but their consumption was deterred by food safety concerns. The adolescents identified foods high in salt, fat, and sugar, including processed/packaged foods as unhealthy, but still consumed them frequently due to their taste, affordability, availability and accessibility in and around schools. Both undernutrition and overweight/obesity were linked to social exclusion and bullying in school. Effective behavioural change communication is required to address common misperceptions. School nutrition programs should integrate water, sanitation and hygiene programs to ensure food safety. Regulations promoting healthy eating while discouraging unhealthy dietary behaviours are vital. Interventions to make nutrient‐dense and healthy foods available, accessible, and affordable are urgently needed to improve the nutrition and health outcome of adolescents.
Elevated temperatures reduce population‐specific transcriptional plasticity in developing lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens)
Authors: Bugg William S. , Thorstensen Matt J. , Marshall Katie E. , Anderson W. Gary , Jeffries Ken M.
Published: May 2023

Rising mean and variance in temperatures elevates threats to endangered freshwater species such as lake sturgeon,Acipenser fulvescens. Previous research demonstrated that higher temperatures during development result in physiological consequences for lake sturgeon populations throughout Manitoba, Canada, with alteration of metabolic rate, thermal tolerance, transcriptional responses, growth and mortality. We acclimated lake sturgeon (30–60 days post fertilization, a period of high mortality) from northern and southern populations (56°02′46.5″N, 96°54′18.6″W and 50°17′52″N, 95°32′51″W, respectively, separated by approximately 650 km) within Manitoba to current (summer highs of 20–23°C) and future projected (+2–3°C) environmental temperatures of 16, 20 and 24°C for 30 days, and we measured gill transcriptional responses using RNAseq. Transcripts revealed SNPs consistent with genetically distinct populations and transcriptional responses altered by acclimation temperature. There were a higher number of differentially expressed transcripts observed in the southern, compared to the northern, population as temperatures increased, indicating enhanced transcriptional plasticity. Both lake sturgeon populations responded to elevated acclimation temperatures by downregulating the transcription of genes involved in protein synthesis and energy production. Furthermore, there were population‐specific thresholds for the downregulation of processes promoting transcriptional plasticity as well as mitochondrial function as the northern population showed decreases at 20°C, while this capacity was not diminished until 24°C in the southern population. These transcriptional responses highlight the molecular impacts of increasing temperatures for divergent lake sturgeon populations during vulnerable developmental periods and the critical influence of transcriptome plasticity on acclimation capacity.
Losing the light at the end of the tunnel: Depression, future thinking, and hope
Authors: Vazard Juliette
Published: May 2023

Is the capacity to experience hope central to our ability to entertain desirable future possibilities in thought? The ability to project oneself forward in time, or to entertain vivid positive episodic future thoughts, is impaired in patients with clinical depression. In this article, I consider the causal relation between, on the one hand, the loss of the affective experience of hope in depressed patients, and on the other hand, the reduced ability to generate and entertain positive episodic future thinking. I suggest that findings in the philosophy of emotion may shed light on this causal relation.
A novel effector RipBT contributes to Ralstonia solanacearum virulence on potato
Authors: Qiu Huishan , Wang Bingsen , Huang Mengshu , Sun Xiaohu , Yu Liu , Cheng Dong , He Wenfeng , Zhou Dan , Wu Xintong , Song Botao , Tang Ning , Chen Huilan
Published: May 2023

Ralstonia solanacearum is one of the most destructive plant‐pathogenic bacteria, infecting more than 200 plant species, including potato (Solanum tuberosum) and many other solanaceous crops. R. solanacearum has numerous pathogenicity factors, and type III effectors secreted through type III secretion system (T3SS) are key factors to counteract host immunity. Here, we show that RipBT is a novel T3SS‐secreted effector by using a cyaA reporter system. Transient expression of RipBT in Nicotiania benthamiana induced strong cell death in a plasma membrane‐localization dependent manner. Notably, mutation of RipBT in R. solanacearum showed attenuated virulence on potato, while RipBT transgenic potato plants exhibited enhanced susceptibility to R. solanacearum. Interestingly, transcriptomic analyses suggest that RipBT may interfere with plant reactive oxygen species (ROS) metabolism during the R. solanacearum infection of potato roots. In addition, the expression of RipBT remarkably suppressed the flg22‐induced pathogen‐associated molecular pattern‐triggered immunity responses, such as the ROS burst. Taken together, RipBT acts as a T3SS effector, promoting R. solanacearum infection on potato and presumably disturbing ROS homeostasis.
Autopsies on the body of nature: Dark ecology in Thomas Bernhard'sVerstörung
Authors: Franch Bastian Ljung
Published: May 2023

Verstörung—often considered a minor work by Bernhard—is a somewhat overlooked example of ecologically oriented fiction in the German language. In this novel, Bernhard examines the implications of a darkly ecological concept of the environment (as this article characterizes it with reference to Timothy Morton), confronting it with epistemological questions and placing it in the context of psychoanalysis and Schopenhauerian metaphysics. The novel anticipates some important aspects of the Anthropocene thesis in its critique of the nature/culture divide, its widening of the concept of agency, its insistence on viewing individual human history in the context of natural history, its problematization of the natural/synthetic distinction and its consistent utilization of geological imagery.Verstörungis suffused with a remarkable, dark, and twisted proto‐Anthropocene aesthetics. It is a post‐mortem examination of the worldafter nature, aGefühls‐ und Gesteinsgeschichtethat carries the reader into the dark heart of the Austrian countryside.
From the Destruction of Two Lumbar Segments to Thoracic‐Lumbar‐Pelvic Fusion: A Case Caused by Congenital Insensitivity to Pain with Anhidrosis and Literature Review
Authors: Jiao Yuhao , Tian Ye , Cai Siyi
Published: May 2023

Background

Congenital insensitivity to pain with anhidrosis (CIPA) with Charcot arthropathy is a rare combination in orthopaedic clinical practice. The experience dealing with such patients is limited. Here with this case of approximately 10 years follow‐up, we wish to shed light on the choices of strategies of surgeries and alerting clinicians with post‐surgery complications. The possible underlying reasons for the recurrent Charcot arthropathies as well as strategies for peri‐operative management for such surgical cases are also discussed.

Case Presentation

The patient underwent a surgery to correct her severe kyphosis caused by CIPA‐related Charcot spine. Multiple post‐surgery complications occurred during her follow‐up, including hardware migration, adjacent segment disease (ASD), and loosening pedicle screws. Five revision surgeries were conducted consequently. From the limited experience on the management of CIPA‐related Charcot spine, surgical correction is still the first‐line treatment.

Conclusions

Of all the 16 cases reviewed (including our case), loosening pedicle screws, hardware migration, and ASDs are the common post‐surgery complications. Large‐scale removal of damaged vertebrae and subsequent reconstruction are not recommended, which might increase the risk of hardware migration. A 360° long‐segment fusion might be of help to reduce the risk of ASDs. In the meantime, comprehensive management including careful nursing, proper rehabilitation exercises, and treatments targeting bone mineral metabolism is also critical.