bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveil the veil of limited liability: Evidence from firm investment
Authors: Qin Jiaqi , Sun Yan
Published: February 2023

We investigate the effect of limited liability on firm investment. We find firms that intend to borrow but have higher risk have a greater probability of changing to limited liability. With propensity score matching, difference‐in‐differences analysis, and switching regressions with an endogenous switching model, we find that, after the liability regime change, firm investment aggressiveness decreases but on a lesser level than the over‐time change for firms using unlimited liability. We also find there is improvement in investment efficiency and return on invested capital. These results suggest that limited liability encourages firm investment and leads to more effective investment policies.
White Anglo patriarchal possession in organizations: Unequal vertical career progressions among Anglo White & non‐Anglo White highly skilled immigrant women
Authors: Carangio Vassilissa
Published: February 2023

Within the discussion of highly skilled immigrant women workers in organizations, dominant discourses continue to pay little attention to the gender/racial dimension in relation to career progression. Although research of skilled immigrant women has revealed important insights into how the intersection of gender, race, and class shape women's work experience, the White Anglo colonial male promotion practices inscribed on Australian organizations in relation to skilled immigration remain little researched in Australia. This article explores the differences between the career progressions of cisgender, highly skilled immigrant women of different racial and ethnic backgrounds employed in a variety of industries. It reveals how both Anglo White and non‐Anglo White highly skilled immigrant women were affected by colonial patriarchal power relations, which served to hinder their career progression. However, the Whiteness of the top levels of the Australian capitalist colonial labor market benefitted the White Anglo group's vertical career growth.
MIMT1 and LINC01550 are uncharted lncRNAs down‐regulated in colorectal cancer
Authors: Vejdandoust Faramarz , Moosavi Rahmaneh , Fattahi Dolatabadi Nasrin , Zamani Atefeh , Tabatabaeian Hossein
Published: February 2023

Incomplete knowledge of the molecular basis of colorectal cancer, with subsequent limitations in early diagnosis and effective treatment, has contributed to this form of malignancy becoming the second most common cause of cancer‐related death worldwide. With the advances in high‐throughput profiling techniques and the availability of public data sets such as The Cancer Genome Atlas Program (TCGA), a broad range of coding transcripts have been profiled and their underlying modes of action have been mapped. However, there is still a huge gap in our understanding of noncoding RNA dysregulation. To this end, we used a bioinformatics approach to shortlist and evaluate yet‐to be‐profiled long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) in colorectal cancer. We analysed the TCGA RNA‐seq data and followed this by validating the expression patterns using a qPCR technique. Analysing in‐house clinical samples, the real‐time PCR method revealed that the shortlisted lncRNAs, that is MER1 Repeat Containing Imprinted Transcript 1 (MIMT1) and Non‐Protein Coding RNA 1550 (LINC01550), were down‐regulated in colorectal cancer tumours compared with the paired adjacent normal tissues. Mechanistically, the in silico results suggest that LINC01550 could form a complex competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network leading to the subsequent regulation of colorectal cancer‐related genes, such as CUGBP Elav‐Like Family Member (CELF2), Polypyrimidine Tract Binding Protein 1 (PTBP1) and ELAV Like RNA Binding Protein 1 (ELAV1). The findings of this work indicate that MIMT1 and LINC01550 could be novel tumour suppressor genes that can be studied further to assess their roles in regulating the cancer signalling pathway(s).
Optimality in an OLG model with nonsmooth preferences
Authors: Ohtaki Eisei
Published: February 2023

It is a well‐known observation that, in the overlapping generations (OLG) model with the complete market, we can judge optimality of an equilibrium allocation by examining the associated equilibrium price. Motivated by recent development in decision theory under ambiguity, this study reexamines the above observation in a stochastic OLG model with convex but not necessarily smooth preferences. It is shown that optimality of an equilibrium allocation depends on the set of possible supporting prices, not necessarily on the associated equilibrium price itself. Therefore, observations of an equilibrium price do not necessarily tell us precise information on optimality of the equilibrium allocation.
Integrating familial care and extra‐familial care into a new long‐term care policy for China: Examples from Germany's long‐term care insurance
Authors: Eggers Thurid , Xu Jia
Published: February 2023

Rapid demographic ageing constitutes a significant challenge for the Chinese social system. As China has only recently begun developing a long‐term care (LTC) policy, care provision is currently based on family care. However, the prevalence of such care is declining due to low social recognition and conflicts between family members' care and work responsibilities. Thus, a comprehensive LTC policy should expand extra‐familial care services and make family care attractive. Germany's LTC insurance is an example of a policy that integrates extra‐familial and family care. This study analyses whether China's LTC policy can gain insights from Germany's LTC policy in view of the findings from Chinese LTC pilot projects. We argue that a policy that supports extra‐familial and family care would facilitate the LTC provision preferred by older people, while also supporting relatives who wish to provide care according to their values of intergenerational solidarity.
Mechanisms underlying pathological scarring by fibroblasts during wound healing
Authors: Ma Yizhao , Liu Zhifang , Miao LinLin , Jiang Xinyu , Ruan Hongyu , Xuan Rongrong , Xu Suling
Published: February 2023

Pathological scarring is an abnormal outcome of wound healing, which often manifests as excessive proliferation and transdifferentiation of fibroblasts (FBs), and excessive deposition of the extracellular matrix. FBs are the most important effector cells involved in wound healing and scar formation. The factors that promote pathological scar formation often act on the proliferation and function of FB. In this study, we describe the factors that lead to abnormal FB formation in pathological scarring in terms of the microenvironment, signalling pathways, epigenetics, and autophagy. These findings suggest that understanding the causes of abnormal FB formation may aid in the development of precise and effective preventive and treatment strategies for pathological scarring that are associated with improved quality of life of patients.
Effects of Fe doping on structure, negative thermal expansion, and magnetic properties of antiperovskite Mn3GaN compounds
Authors: Lu Huiqing , Sun Ying , Shi Kewen , Wu Lili , Niu Ben , Wang Cong
Published: February 2023

We synthesized antiperovskite Mn3Ga1−xFexN (0 ≤ x ≤ 0.30) compounds and investigated their negative thermal expansion (NTE) behavior, structure, and magnetic properties. A high‐resolution transmission electron microscopy analysis and a selected‐area electron diffraction (SAED) pattern indicate that the samples have high crystallinity with a single‐phase cubic structure. Tunable NTE behavior appears below room temperature, and the NTE operation temperature range (△T) is broadened while increasing the Fe doping. Furthermore, introducing Fe in Mn3Ga1−xFexN can efficiently adjust the NTE coefficient from −232.57 × 10−6/K (x = 0) to −12.57 × 10−6/K (x = 0.20), and the corresponding △T can be broadened from △T = 22 K to 51 K. Besides, the total entropy change (ΔStotal) at the phase transitions continuously decreases from 9.2 to 4.7 J/(kg K) while increasing the Fe content from x = 0.05 to 0.10. With increasing Fe into Ga sites, the magnetic ordering varies from antiferromagnetic (AFM) to ferromagnetic (FM), the AFM to paramagnetic (PM) phase transition temperature decreases, whereas the FM to PM transition temperature increases when increasing the Fe content. The present study indicates that magnetic element doping can efficiently tune the NTE and the correlated physical features of the antiperovskite compounds.
Low sintering shrinkage porous mullite ceramics with high strength and low thermal conductivity via foam‐gelcasting
Authors: Lin Lang , Wang Hengchang , Xia Chenhe , Xu Jie , Meng Xuanyu , Yang Runwu , Hu Guoxin , Qu Yanan , Gao Feng
Published: February 2023

Excessive sintering shrinkage leads to severe deformation and cracking, affecting the microstructure and properties of porous ceramics. Therefore, reducing sintering shrinkage and achieving near‐net‐size forming is one of the effective ways to prepare high‐performance porous ceramics. Herein, low‐shrinkage porous mullite ceramics were prepared by foam‐gelcasting using kyanite as raw material and aluminum fluoride (AlF3) as additive, through volume expansion from phase transition and gas generated from the reaction. The effects of AlF3 content on the shrinkage, porosity, compressive strength, and thermal conductivity of mullite‐based porous ceramics were investigated. The results showed that with the increase of content, the sintering shrinkage decreased, the porosity increased, and mullite whiskers were produced. Porous mullite ceramics with 30 wt% AlF3 content exhibited a whisker structure with the lowest shrinkage of 3.5%, porosity of 85.2%, compressive strength of 3.06 ± 0.51 MPa, and thermal conductivity of 0.23 W/(m·K) at room temperature. The temperature difference between the front and back sides of the sample reached 710°C under high temperature fire resistance test. The low sintering shrinkage preparation process effectively reduces the subsequent processing cost, which is significant for the preparation of high‐performance porous ceramics.
Highly transparent yttria ceramics with Nb2O5/Ta2O5 as novel sintering additives by pressureless vacuum sintering
Authors: Liu Yan , Gan Lin , Qin Xianpeng , Zhou Guohong , Jiang Juan , Zhang Tianjin , Hu Song , Wang Zhengjuan
Published: February 2023

Highly transparent yttria ceramics were fabricated by pressureless sintering with Nb2O5 or Ta2O5 as a novel sintering additive. The optical transmittance, microstructural evolution, and thermo‐mechanical properties of the samples were investigated. The optimal doping concentrations of Nb2O5 and Ta2O5 are 0.3 and 0.2 at.%, respectively, which are much lower compared to those of previously reported counterparts. The transmittance of the sample with 0.3 at.% Nb2O5 reaches 81.6% at 1100 nm and 72.4% at 400 nm (2 mm in thickness), similar transmittance was obtained in the sample with 0.2 at.% Ta2O5. The microhardness (∼7 GPa), fracture toughness (∼0.85 MPa·m1/2), and biaxial strength (∼200 MPa) of the present samples were confirmed to be comparable or even better compared to those of previously reported transparent yttria ceramics fabricated by pressureless sintering. Furthermore, the present samples, by virtue of the low doping concentrations, possessed relatively high thermal conductivity values (>10 W/m·K), which substantially guaranteed high thermal shock resistance.
The relationship between basic psychological needs and emotional and behavioral problems in middle school students
Authors: Ciydem Emre , Avci Dilek , Uyar Murat , Seyhan Ahmet
Published: February 2023

Background

Basic psychological needs are universal sources of mental growth and development.

Purpose

This study investigated the relationship between basic psychological needs and emotional and behavioral problems in middle school students.

Methodology

This study adopted a cross‐sectional and correlational research design. The sample consisted of 1099 students from three middle schools with different socioeconomic backgrounds. Data were collected using a sociodemographic characteristics questionnaire, the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire, and the Basic Psychological Needs Scale (BPNS). The data were analyzed using multiple linear regression analysis.

Results

A one‐unit increase in autonomy, competence, and relatedness led to a 0.312, 0.263, and 0.312 decrease in emotional and behavioral problems, respectively (p < 0.05). The regression analysis showed that gender (female), academic performance (poor), mother's parenting style (authoritarian), and father's parenting style (permissive) were the risk factors affecting participants' emotional and behavioral problems (p < 0.05).

Conclusions

Our results indicate that some basic psychological needs and sociodemographic characteristics make middle school students more likely to develop emotional and behavioral problems. Authorities should develop interventions on basic psychological needs to promote emotional and behavioral development. Researchers should assess the effectiveness of those interventions.
Vascular endothelial growth factor A is a potential prognostic biomarker and correlates with immune cell infiltration in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Qi Yuchen , Song Yinghui , Cai Mengting , Li Jianwen , Yu Zhangtao , Li Yuhang , Huang Junkai , Jiang Yu , Peng Chuang , Jiang Bo , Liu Sulai
Published: February 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is the fourth leading cause of cancer‐related deaths among cancer patients. Vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) is involved in regulating biological processes, such as angiogenesis and vascular permeability, and is very closely related to the pathogenesis of various tumours, especially vascular‐rich, solid tumours. Clinical data of patients with HCC and other tumours were analysed through public databases, such as the TCGA database, Gene Expression Omnibus database, Human Protein Atlas database, STRING, Tumour Immune Estimation Resource and Kaplan–Meier Plotter. The tumour tissues and adjacent normal tissues of patients with HCC from Hunan Provincial People's Hospital were collected to verify the expression of VEGFA by immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, Western blotting and qPCR. VEGFA expression is elevated in multiple tumour types and correlates with the prognosis of tumour patients. VEGFA is involved in regulating the tumour microenvironment and immune cell function in tumour development. Inhibition of VEGFA reduces proliferation, invasion, and migration and promotes apoptosis in HCC cells. VEGFA is a potential predictive biomarker for the diagnosis and prognosis of HCC.
Eight‐week supplementation of Aronia berry extract promoted the glutathione defence system against acute aerobic exercise‐induced oxidative load immediately and 30 min post‐exercise in healthy adults: a double‐blind, randomised controlled trial
Authors: Chung Jae‐Won , Kim Ji‐Eon , Nam Yea‐eun , Kim Woo‐Shik , Lee Insoo , Yim Sung‐Vin , Kwon Oran
Published: February 2023

Background

Food antioxidants have received prompt attention for controlling oxidative stress encountered in daily life. This study aimed to examine the protective effects of Aronia berry extract (ABE) supplementation on acute aerobic exercise (AAE)‐induced oxidative stress in healthy subjects.

Methods

We assessed a battery of antioxidant defence and oxidative stress parameters at pre‐exercise, immediately post‐exercise and 30 min post‐exercise in healthy middle‐aged adults with habitually low intakes of fruit and vegetables in an 8‐week, double‐blind, randomised, controlled clinical trial with two arms (n = 70). The AAE challenge model, characterised as a treadmill exercise for 30 min at 60% VO2 maximum, was applied to load oxidative stress at the end of the study. Pearson's correlation analysis assessed the association between the changes in antioxidant defence capacities and oxidative stress levels.

Results

The time–course‐dependent oxidative stress was well observed in the placebo group regarding the glutathione peroxidase (GPx) activity and the reduced glutathione (GSH) availability for antioxidant defence and erythrocyte malondialdehyde, interleukin‐6 and lactate levels for oxidative damage. Meanwhile, the ABE supplementation effectively strengthened the glutathione defence system by increasing GSH availability and GPx activity immediately post‐exercise and 30 min post‐exercise. In addition, the scatter plot and linear regression analysis revealed strong negative correlations of GSH availability with oxidised low‐density lipoprotein and plasma malonaldehyde levels.

Conclusion

These findings suggest that daily supplementation of 300 mg ABE might help boost GSH levels and an adaptive antioxidant enzyme defence system of erythrocytes in healthy adults with habitually low fruit and vegetable intakes.
In vivo calibration of genetically encoded metabolite biosensors must account for metabolite metabolism during calibration and cellular volume
Authors: Dienel Gerald A. , Rothman Douglas L.
Published: February 2023

Isotopic assays of brain glucose utilization rates have been used for more than four decades to establish relationships between energetics, functional activity, and neurotransmitter cycling. Limitations of these methods include the relatively long time (1–60 min) for the determination of labeled metabolite levels and the lack of cellular resolution. Identification and quantification of fuels for neurons and astrocytes that support activation and higher brain functions are a major, unresolved issues. Glycolysis is preferentially up‐regulated during activation even though oxygen level and supply are adequate, causing lactate concentrations to quickly rise during alerting, sensory processing, cognitive tasks, and memory consolidation. However, the fate of lactate (rapid release from brain or cell–cell shuttling coupled with local oxidation) is long disputed. Genetically encoded biosensors can determine intracellular metabolite concentrations and report real‐time lactate level responses to sensory, behavioral, and biochemical challenges at the cellular level. Kinetics and time courses of cellular lactate concentration changes are informative, but accurate biosensor calibration is required for quantitative comparisons of lactate levels in astrocytes and neurons. An in vivo calibration procedure for the Laconic lactate biosensor involves intracellular lactate depletion by intravenous pyruvate‐mediated trans‐acceleration of lactate efflux followed by sensor saturation by intravenous infusion of high doses of lactate plus ammonium chloride. In the present paper, the validity of this procedure is questioned because rapid lactate–pyruvate interconversion in blood, preferential neuronal oxidation of both monocarboxylates, on‐going glycolytic metabolism, and cellular volumes were not taken into account. Calibration pitfalls for the Laconic lactate biosensor also apply to other metabolite biosensors that are standardized in vivo by infusion of substrates that can be metabolized in peripheral tissues. We discuss how technical shortcomings negate the conclusion that Laconic sensor calibrations support the existence of an in vivo astrocyte–neuron lactate concentration gradient linked to lactate shuttling from astrocytes to neurons to fuel neuronal activity.

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Work as overload or enhancement for family caregivers of older adults: Assessment of experienced well‐being over the day
Authors: Patterson Sarah E. , Freedman Vicki A. , Cornman Jennifer C. , Wolff Jennifer L.
Published: February 2023

Objective

This study examines work and care patterns and their association with experienced well‐being over the course of the day and tests a moderating effect of gender.

Background

Many family and unpaid caregivers to older adults face dual responsibilities of work and caregiving. Yet little is known about how working caregivers sequence responsibilities through the day and their implications for well‐being.

Method

Sequence and cluster analysis is applied to nationally representative time diary data from working caregivers to older adults in the United States collected by the National Study of Caregiving (NSOC) (N = 1005). OLS regression is used to test the association with well‐being and a moderating effect of gender.

Results

Among working caregivers, five clusters emerged, referred to as: Day Off, Care Between Late Shifts, Balancing Act, Care After Work, and Care After Overwork. Among working caregivers, experienced well‐being was significantly lower among those in the Care Between Late Shifts and Care After Work clusters relative to those in the Day Off cluster. Gender did not moderate these findings.

Conclusion

The well‐being of caregivers who split time between a limited number of hours of work and care is comparable to those who take a day off. However, among working caregivers balancing full‐time work—whether day or night–with care presents a strain for both men and women.

Implications

Policies that target full‐time workers who are balancing care for an older adult may help increase well‐being.
Perinatal support for breastfeeding using mHealth: A mixed methods feasibility study of the My Baby Now app
Authors: Laws Rachel A. , Cheng Heilok , Rossiter Chris , Kuswara Konsita , Markides Brittany R. , Size Donna , Corcoran Patricia , Ong Kok‐Leong , Denney‐Wilson Elizabeth
Published: February 2023

Despite the well‐known benefits of breastfeeding, breastfeeding rates remain suboptimal, particularly for women with lower socioeconomic position. Although popular, breastfeeding apps are often poor quality; their impact on breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, confidence and intentions is unknown. A mixed method pre‐post feasibility study was conducted to: 1) explore the feasibility of the My Baby Now app in providing perinatal breastfeeding support; 2) examine the impact on breastfeeding knowledge, attitudes, confidence and intentions; 3) to examine any differences in acceptability and impact of the app according to maternal education. The My Baby Now app was offered to pregnant women 20–30 weeks gestation. Breastfeeding knowledge and intentions were collected at baseline (T1) and 36–38 weeks gestation (T2); attitudes and confidence were collected at baseline, T2 and T3 (8–12 weeks post‐partum). App engagement was measured via app analytics. Qualitative interviews were conducted with a purposeful sample following T3. Of 266 participants recruited, 169 (64%) completed T2 and 157 (59%) completed T3. Mothers without university education rated the app to be higher quality, more useful and impactful than mothers with university education. From T1–T2, breastfeeding knowledge (59.6% vs. 66.5%, p < 0.001) and exclusive breastfeeding intentions (76.6% vs. 80.9%, p < 0.001) increased. Breastfeeding attitudes and confidence scores also increased significantly across T1–T2 and T1–T3. App engagement during pregnancy predicted changes in breastfeeding attitudes from T1–T2 among participants without university education. App engagement did not predict changes in breastfeeding knowledge, confidence or intentions. Future randomised controlled studies should examine the effectiveness of mHealth interventions on breastfeeding outcomes.
Organellar DNA continues to provide a rich source of information in the genomics era
Authors: Blair Christopher
Published: February 2023

The genomics revolution continues to change how ecologists and evolutionary biologists study the evolution and maintenance of biodiversity. It is now easier than ever to generate large molecular data sets consisting of hundreds to thousands of independently evolving nuclear loci to estimate a suite of evolutionary and demographic parameters. However, any inferences will be incomplete or inaccurate if incorrect taxonomic identities and perpetuated throughout the analytical pipeline. Due to decades of research and comprehensive online databases, sequencing and analysis of mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA), chloroplast DNA (cpDNA) and select nuclear genes can provide researchers with a cost effective and simple means to verify the species identity of samples prior to subsequent phylogeographic and population genomic analysis. The addition of these sequences to genomic studies can also shed light on other important evolutionary questions such as explanations for gene tree‐species tree discordance, species limits, sex‐biased dispersal patterns, adaptation, and mtDNA introgression. Although the mtDNA and cpDNA genomes often should not be used exclusively to make historical inferences given their well‐known limitations, the addition of these data to modern genomic studies adds little cost and effort while simultaneously providing a wealth of useful data that can have significant implications for both basic and applied research.
Infantile vitiligo and alopecia in immunodysregulation polyendocrinopathy enteropathy X‐linked syndrome
Authors: Lee Wai Quen , Leong Kin Fon
Published: February 2023

Immune dysregulation, polyendocrinopathy, enteropathy, X‐linked (IPEX) is characterized by failure to thrive, severe chronic diarrhea, neonatal type 1 diabetes or thyroiditis, and eczematous dermatitis. We report a patient with infantile onset IPEX syndrome who developed vitiligo, alopecia, and chronic diarrhea. Awaiting stem cell transplant, he had multiple episodes of sepsis and succumbed at the age of 10 months. The constellation of symptoms is important to prompt clinicians to suspect this rare syndrome as early hematopoietic stem cell transplantation is the only cure for IPEX patients.
Social inclusion, social exclusion, and the role of leaders in avoiding—or promoting—societal collapse
Authors: Van Wart Montgomery , McIntyre Miranda , Hall Jeremy L.
Published: February 2023

Not since the late 1850s has the United States seen the portents leading to a major political crisis be so numerous and grave. Over the last two decades, local and national social capital has steeply declined, culminating in a near‐collapse of social capital within the last 6 years. The potential for a national political crisis is now more plausible, making a dramatic crisis (e.g., bloodless revolt, a civil war, or secession) conceivable within a generation. This article reviews the interlocking concepts of social inclusion, social exclusion, radicalization, and societal collapse and draws from these concepts to elucidate the antecedents to major political crises. We connect these observations to the central role of political and administrative leadership in a democratic society in challenging times. Integrative recommendations for combating extremism and radicalization are provided to highlight key strategies for restoring social capital and stability.
Comparison of puncture methods in patients with hemodialysis: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Chen Pei‐Ching , Sun Jia‐Ling , Hsu Hsiu‐Chuang , Lai Yao‐Hui , Liao Yu‐Chien , Chen Pei‐Ying , Chang Hui‐Chen
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Arteriovenous fistula or arteriovenous graft is essential to long‐term survival and quality of life in patients receiving hemodialysis. To date, no research has examined the clinical impacts of different puncture methods. This study compared the rope ladder and area puncture techniques in terms of vascular patency, pain, and quality of life among patients receiving hemodialysis. Methods: A prospective longitudinal study was performed with 6‐month follow‐up. A total of 98 participants recruited from a hemodialysis center in Taiwan were randomly assigned to receive the rope ladder technique (experimental group) or the area puncture technique (control group). Vascular patency was assessed by examining access flow and percutaneous transluminal angioplasty rate. Pain and quality of life were measured using the Numerical Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Kidney Disease Quality of Life Instrument (KDQOL‐36™), respectively. All outcome variables were measured repeatedly and analyzed using a generalized estimating equation. Results: Overall, quality of life was significantly better for the experimental group than for the control group (β = 47.23, p < 0.001). The percutaneous transluminal angioplasty rate was lower for the experimental group than for the control group (12.0% vs. 18.8%). However, no significant differences were found in access flow and pain level between the two groups over time. Conclusion: Hemodialysis patients who received the rope ladder puncture technique had a lower percutaneous angioplasty rate and better quality of life than patients who received the area puncture technique, suggesting that the rope ladder technique could be implemented as a routine cannulation method in hemodialysis clinics.
Contraceptive Continuation and Experiences Obtaining Implant and IUD Removal Among Women Randomized to Use Injectable Contraception, Levonorgestrel Implant, and Copper IUD in South Africa and Zambia
Authors: Cartwright Alice F. , Callahan Rebecca L. , Beksinska Mags , Kasaro Margaret P. , Tang Jennifer H. , Milford Cecilia , Wong Christina , Velarde Marissa , Maphumulo Virginia , Fawzy Maria , Chinyama Manze , Chabu Esther , Mudenda Mayaba , Smit Jennifer
Published: February 2023

Few longitudinal studies have measured contraceptive continuation past one year in sub‐Saharan Africa. We surveyed 674 women who had been randomized to receive the three‐month intramuscular contraceptive injectable (DMPA‐IM), levonorgestrel (LNG) implant, or copper intrauterine device (IUD) during the Evidence for Contraceptive Options and HIV Outcomes (ECHO) trial in South Africa and Zambia and were subsequently followed for two additional years to explore method continuation, reasons for discontinuation, and access to implant and IUD removal services. We also conducted in‐depth qualitative interviews with 39 participants. We estimated cumulative discontinuation probabilities using Kaplan–Meier estimates and assessed factors associated with discontinuation using Cox‐proportional hazards models. The LNG implant continuation rate over the maximum 44‐month study period was 60 percent, while rates for the copper IUD and DMPA‐IM were 52 percent and 44 percent, respectively. Reasons for method discontinuation included side effects, particularly menstrual changes, and method stock‐outs. Most implant and IUD users who sought removal were able to access services; however, room for improvement exists. In this cohort originally randomized to receive a contraceptive method and attend regular study visits, implants and IUDs continued to be highly acceptable over an additional two years, but facilities should continue to ensure that insertions and removals are available as requested.
Reflexivity in quantitative research: A rationale and beginner's guide
Authors: Jamieson Michelle K. , Govaart Gisela H. , Pownall Madeleine
Published: February 2023

Reflexivity is the act of examining one's own assumption, belief, and judgement systems, and thinking carefully and critically about how these influence the research process. The practice of reflexivity confronts and questions who we are as researchers and how this guides our work. It is central in debates on objectivity, subjectivity, and the very foundations of social science research and generated knowledge. Incorporating reflexivity in the research process is traditionally recognized as one of the most notable differences between qualitative and quantitative methodologies. Qualitative research centres and celebrates the participants' personal and unique lived experience. Therefore, qualitative researchers are readily encouraged to consider how their own unique positionalities inform the research process and this forms an important part of training within this paradigm. Quantitative methodologies in social and personality psychology, and more generally, on the other hand, have remained seemingly detached from this level of reflexivity and general reflective practice. In this commentary, we, three quantitative researchers who have grappled with the compatibility of reflexivity within our own research, argue that reflexivity has much to offer quantitative methodologists. The act of reflexivity prompts researchers to acknowledge and centre their own positionalities, encourages a more thoughtful engagement with every step of the research process, and thus, as we argue, contributes to the ongoing reappraisal of openness and transparency in psychology. In this paper, we make the case for integrating reflexivity across all research approaches, before providing a ‘beginner's guide’ for quantitative researchers wishing to engage reflexively with their own work, providing concrete recommendations, worked examples, and reflexive prompts.
Modeling of global skin aging indices among Caucasian and Asian women
Authors: Robic Julie , Nkengne Alex , Lua Bee Leng , Bellanger Aurore , Hu Rachel , Vie Katell
Published: February 2023

Background

The skin aging process is defined as the gradual degradation of several skin properties such as firmness, color, or the appearance of wrinkles. These properties can be assessed by trained experts, who perform an overall evaluation of the entire face.

Objective

The objective of this paper is the construction of two Global Skin Aging Indices specifically designed to model the overall skin aging process of Caucasian and Asian women.

Methods

Two hundred forty Asian women and 129 Caucasian women aged between 20 and 60 years old are recruited. Parameters related to wrinkles, sagging, elasticity, and skin tone are measured (clinically or instrumentally). The global skin aging index is defined as the normalized projection on the first principal component of a principal component analysis of the skin measurements. Then, linear regressions are performed between the indices and age of both panels.

Results

The first principal component carries around 50% of the initial variance for both indices. Both Global Skin Aging Indices statistically correlate with age (R2 ≥ 0.7, p‐value < 0.05). An equation linking the indices with age is computed.

Conclusion

The proposed indices are good indicators of the overall aging process for Caucasian and Asian women. They offer new approaches to assess antiaging product efficacy.
Exploring incidence and risk factors for persistent postoperative opioid use in adult surgical patients: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Griffiths Harry , Kent Bridie , Martin Daniel
Published: February 2023

Objective:

The objective of this review is to determine the incidence of persistent postsurgical use of opioids in adult patients and the associated risk factors.

Introduction:

Surgery has been identified as an independent risk factor for unwarranted chronic opioid use, contributing to opioid-related harm in the community. Persistent opioid use after surgery is associated with morbidity and mortality from opioid-related adverse events, indicating a significant yet mitigable public health concern. There is substantial variation in the reported incidence and risk factors for postoperative opioid use, which require evaluation for future evidence-based risk-reduction strategies.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include studies investigating the persistent use of opioids after 90 postoperative days in adult (≥18 y) patients undergoing surgery of any type, including patients with cancer pain. Selected evidence must report on opioid use prior to surgery. Analytical and descriptive observational studies, and experimental and quasi-experimental studies, published in the previous decade will be eligible for inclusion.

Methods:

The proposed study methods follow the JBI methodology for systematic reviews of prevalence and incidence. A systematic search will be conducted in PubMed, Embase, CINAHL, Cochrane Central, and Web of Science, and a search of gray literature will include Google Scholar and ClinicalTrials.gov. Study selection, critical appraisal, and data extraction will be performed by 2 independent reviewers aided by the relevant JBI systematic review tools. We aim to produce a narrative synthesis of results and conduct a meta-analysis where feasible, in addition to subgroup analyses of suitable populations. The results are intended to promote safe, evidence-based postoperative opioid prescribing when considering risk factors for persistent postoperative opioid use.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42022320691
Effectiveness of Internet-based psychosocial interventions on psychological distress, expressed emotion, and knowledge about psychosis among family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Kaewwanna Watcharagan , Bhatarasakoon Patraporn , Kitsumban Voranut
Published: February 2023

Objective:

The objective of this review is to evaluate the effectiveness of internet-based psychosocial interventions versus active comparators (such as in-person interventions, bibliotherapy, or telephone interventions) and passive comparators (such as usual psychiatric care) on psychological distress, expressed emotion, and knowledge about psychosis in family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia.

Introduction:

Family caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia are at increased risk of developing mental disorders. Despite the widespread dissemination of reliable guidelines for caring for people with schizophrenia and their family caregivers, these have been poorly implemented. Hence, internet-based interventions with caregivers of persons with schizophrenia could be an effective and feasible option.

Inclusion criteria:

This review will include studies focusing on the family caregivers of individuals diagnosed with schizophrenia. Internet-based psychosocial interventions will be defined as any psychosocial intervention that is internet-based compared with active comparators (such as in-person interventions, bibliotherapy, or telephone interventions) and passive comparators (such as usual psychiatric care). The primary outcomes of this review will include psychological distress, expressed emotion, and knowledge about the psychosis of family caregivers of persons with schizophrenia. The secondary outcome will be the hospitalization of persons with schizophrenia.

Methods:

MEDLINE (PubMed), CINAHL (Ovid), Scopus, Cochrane Library, and ProQuest Dissertations and Theses will be systematically searched for published and unpublished studies from 2010 in English and Thai. Two reviewers will select studies, critically appraise them, and perform data extraction independently. Finally, when possible, the studies will be pooled through statistical meta-analysis and grading of the certainty of evidence by each outcome.

Systematic review registration number:

PROSPERO CRD42021255318
Association between haemoglobin A1c and whole‐body heat loss during exercise‐heat stress in physically active men with type 2 diabetes
Authors: Kirby Nathalie V. , Meade Robert D. , Poirier Martin P. , Sigal Ronald J. , Boulay Pierre , Kenny Glen P.
Published: February 2023

Type 2 diabetes is associated with a reduced capacity to dissipate heat. It is unknown whether this impairment is related to glycaemic control (indexed by glycated haemoglobin; haemoglobin A1c) is unknown. We evaluated the association between haemoglobin A1c and whole‐body heat loss (via direct calorimetry), body core temperature, and heart rate in 26 physically active men with type 2 diabetes (43–73 years; HbA1c 5.1–9.1%) during exercise at increasing rates of metabolic heat production (∼150, 200, 250 W m−2) in the heat (40°C, ∼17% relative humidity). Haemoglobin A1c was not associated with whole‐body heat loss (P = 0.617), nor the increase in core temperature from pre‐exercise (P = 0.347). However, absolute core temperature and heart rate were elevated ∼0.2°C (P = 0.014) and ∼6 beats min−1 (P = 0.049), respectively, with every percentage point increase in haemoglobin A1c. Thus, while haemoglobin A1c does not appear to modify diabetes‐related reductions in capacity for heat dissipation, it may still have important implications for physiological strain during exercise‐heat stress.
The role of elastography for liver fibrosis screening in alcoholic liver disease
Authors: Foncea Camelia Gianina , Moga Tudor Voicu , Sporea Ioan , Popa Alexandru , Sirli Roxana , Bende Felix , Popescu Alina , Fofiu Renata
Published: February 2023

Non-invasive tests have been developed to determine the severity of liver disease in patients with alcohol use disorder (AUD). We aimed to assess the severity of liver steatosis and liver fibrosis (LF) in a cohort of patients with AUD using liver elastography and biological scores.Materials and methods: A prospective study was performed on 172 subjects, without previously known liver disease, with a positive AUDIT-C score, serum markers, and vibration-controlled transient elastography (VCTE) with Controlled Attenuation Parameter (CAP).Results: From 172 subjects with positive AUDIT-C test, VCTE diagnosed advanced fibrosis (F3) in 13.9% (24/172) of the subjects and liver cirrhosis (F4) in 17.5% (30/172). Moderate and severe steatosis was found in 18.6% (32/172), respectively 52.3% (90/172). Significant correlations were found between liver stiffness and APRI (r=0.33, p=0.001), FIB-4(r=0.31, p=0.0012) and the age-platelet index (r=0.25, p=0.008). FIB-4 (p=0.01) and age-platelet index (p=0.03) were independently associated with the presence of advanced fibrosis. Age-platelet index (AUC- 0.82) performed significantly better than AST/ALT (AUC- 0.55) and APRI (AUC- 0.58) (p= 0.0001 and p= 0.0014, respectively), but no differences were found when compared to FIB-4 (AUC- 0.77) (p=0.35) for predicting advanced fibrosis.Conclusion: In conclusion, in a cohort of patients with AUD, 70.9% presented moderate and severe liver steatosis and 17.5% were newly diagnosed with liver cirrhosis.
From grapes to huazhimaru: A case of brachial plexus injury hidden in traumatic brain injury
Authors: Lin Hong-Yi , Chang Monal Yu-Hsuan , Guo Jia-Yin , Tsai Su-Ju
Published: February 2023

.
Feasibility study of dative bond formation for bilayer silicon growth under excessive strain
Authors: Vishal Kumar , Ji Zhonghang , Zhuang Yan
Published: February 2023

Energy bandgap opening has been found in low-buckle bilayer silicene under tensile in-plane strain. Practically such substantial in-plane strain could be provided from the substrates. The intense interfacial covalent bonds ensure an in-plane lattice-matching expitaxial growth, but at the same time impose a challenge in forming low-buckle two-dimensional films. We performed a theoretical study using density function theory to investigate the feasibility of growing bilayer silicon under excessive in-plane strain on various substrates. By the insertion of an air gap, dative bonds have been found at the interface on the substrates with the preferred polarized surface. The interactions of the transferred electrons from the surface-terminating metallic atoms of the substrates and the electron sea in the bilayer silicon was observed. The strength of the dative bond is reduced to about ∼0.05% of the Ga–Si covalent bond in the absence of the air gap. Preservation of substantial in-plane strain has been obtained in the bilayer silicon, resulting in a low-buckle bilayer silicon with opened energy bandgap up to ∼75 meV.
A room temperature rechargeable Li
2
O-based lithium-air battery enabled by a solid electrolyte
Authors: Kondori Alireza , Esmaeilirad Mohammadreza , Harzandi Ahmad Mosen , Amine Rachid , Saray Mahmoud Tamadoni , Yu Lei , Liu Tongchao , Wen Jianguo , Shan Nannan , Wang Hsien-Hau , Ngo Anh T. , Redfern Paul C. , Johnson Christopher S. , Amine Khalil , Shahbazian-Yassar Reza , Curtiss Larry A. , Asadi Mohammad
Published: February 2023

A lithium-air battery based on lithium oxide (Li
2
O) formation can theoretically deliver an energy density that is comparable to that of gasoline. Lithium oxide formation involves a four-electron reaction that is more difficult to achieve than the one- and two-electron reaction processes that result in lithium superoxide (LiO
2
) and lithium peroxide (Li
2
O
2
), respectively. By using a composite polymer electrolyte based on Li
10
GeP
2
S
12
nanoparticles embedded in a modified polyethylene oxide polymer matrix, we found that Li
2
O is the main product in a room temperature solid-state lithium-air battery. The battery is rechargeable for 1000 cycles with a low polarization gap and can operate at high rates. The four-electron reaction is enabled by a mixed ion–electron-conducting discharge product and its interface with air.
Smoke-weather interaction affects extreme wildfires in diverse coastal regions
Authors: Huang Xin , Ding Ke , Liu Jingyi , Wang Zilin , Tang Rong , Xue Lian , Wang Haikun , Zhang Qiang , Tan Zhe-Min , Fu Congbin , Davis Steven J. , Andreae Meinrat O. , Ding Aijun
Published: February 2023

Extreme wildfires threaten human lives, air quality, and ecosystems. Meteorology plays a vital role in wildfire behaviors, and the links between wildfires and climate have been widely studied. However, it is not fully clear how fire-weather feedback affects short-term wildfire variability, which undermines our ability to mitigate fire disasters. Here, we show the primacy of synoptic-scale feedback in driving extreme fires in Mediterranean and monsoon climate regimes in the West Coast of the United States and Southeastern Asia. We found that radiative effects of smoke aerosols can modify near-surface wind, air dryness, and rainfall and thus worsen air pollution by enhancing fire emissions and weakening dispersion. The intricate interactions among wildfires, smoke, and weather form a positive feedback loop that substantially increases air pollution exposure.
Single–carbon atom transfer to α,β-unsaturated amides from N-heterocyclic carbenes
Authors: Kamitani Miharu , Nakayasu Bunta , Fujimoto Hayato , Yasui Kosuke , Kodama Takuya , Tobisu Mamoru
Published: February 2023

Single–carbon atom transfer reactions are lacking in organic synthesis, partly because of the absence of atomic carbon sources under standard solution-phase conditions. We report here that N-heterocyclic carbenes can serve as atomic carbon donors through the loss of a 1,2-diimine moiety. This strategy is applicable to single–carbon atom transfer to α,β-unsaturated amides, which can be converted into homologated γ-lactams through the formation of four single bonds to one carbon center in one operation.
Clamp Loader Processing Is Important during DNA Replication Stress
Authors: Tashjian Tommy F. , Chien Peter
Published: February 2023

Though the presence of DnaX τ and γ forms is conserved across bacteria, different species have developed different mechanisms to make these forms. This conservation and independent evolution of mechanisms suggest that having two forms of DnaX is important.
Tritrichomonas foetus
Cell Division Involves DNA Endoreplication and Multiple Fissions
Authors: Iriarte Lucrecia S. , Martinez Cristian I. , de Miguel Natalia , Coceres Veronica M.
Published: February 2023

Nowadays, it's known that
T. foetus
and
T. vaginalis
generate daughter cells by binary fission. Here, we report that both parasites are also capable of dividing by multiple fission under stress conditions.
First Molecular Detection and Genetic Analysis of a Novel Porcine Circovirus (Porcine Circovirus 4) in Dogs in the World
Authors: Zhang Liu-Hui , Wang Tong-Xuan , Fu Peng-Fei , Zhao You-Yi , Li Hong-Xuan , Wang Dong-Mei , Ma Shi-Jie , Chen Hong-Ying , Zheng Lan-Lan
Published: February 2023

This study is the first to report the presence of PCV4 in dogs worldwide, and the first complete genome sequence was obtained from a dog affected with diarrhea. Three genotypes of PCV4 strains (PCV4a, PCV4b, and PCV4c) were determined, as supported by specific amino acid markers (V239L for open reading frame 1 [ORF1] and N27S R28G and M212L for ORF2).