bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Crystal structures of rac-2,3-diphenyl-2,3,5,6-tetrahydro-4H-1,3-thiazine-1,1,4-trione and N-[(2S,5R)-1,1,4-trioxo-2,3-diphenyl-1,3-thiazinan-5-yl]acetamide
Authors: Yennawar Hemant P. , Lowe Saige L. , Mammen Matthew M. , Verhagen Connor R. , Silverberg Lee J.
Published: January 2023

The syntheses and crystal structures of two thiazinone compounds, namely, rac-2,3-diphenyl-2,3,5,6-tetrahydro-4H-1,3-thiazine-1,1,4-trione, C16H15NO3S, in its racemic form, and N-[(2S,5R)-1,1,4-trioxo-2,3-diphenyl-1,3-thiazinan-5-yl]acetamide, C18H18N2O4S, in an enantiopure form, are reported. The thiazine rings in the two structures differ in their puckering, as a half-chair in the first and a boat pucker in the second. The extended structures for both compounds have only C—H...O-type interactions between symmetry-related molecules, and exhibit no π–π stacking interactions in spite of each having two phenyl rings.
[(1,2,5,6-η)-Cycloocta-1,5-diene](4-isopropyl-1-methyl-1,2,4-triazol-5-ylidene)(triphenylphosphane)iridium(I) tetrafluoridoborate dichloromethane 0.8-solvate
Authors: Smith Troy E. , Astashkin Andrei V. , Albert Daniel R. , Rajaseelan Edward
Published: January 2023

A new triazole-based N-heterocyclic carbene iridium(I) cationic complex with a tetrafluoridoborate counter-anion, [Ir(C8H12)(C18H15P)(C6H11N3)]BF4·0.8CH2Cl2, has been synthesized and structurally characterized. The central IrI atom of the cationic complex has a distorted square-planar coordination environment, formed by a bidentate cycloocta-1,5-diene (COD) ligand, an N-heterocyclic carbene, and a triphenylphosphane ligand. The crystal structure comprises C—H...π(ring) interactions that orient the phenyl rings; non-classical hydrogen-bonding interactions between the cationic complex and the tetrafluoridoborate anion are also present. The complex crystallizes in a triclinic unit cell with two structural units and an incorporation of dichloromethane solvate molecules with an occupancy of 0.8.
Preferences and challenges towards the adoption of the fourth industrial revolution technologies by hotels: a multilevel concurrent mixed approach
Authors: Osei Benjamin Appiah , Cheng Michael
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The aim of this mixed methods study sought to investigate the preferences and challenges towards fourth industrial revolution (FIR) technologies adoption at hotels in Malaysia.

Design/methodology/approach

The study adopted partially-mixed concurrent quantitative-dominant mixed methods. The quantitative part of the study examined the preferred FIR technologies for hotels; whiles the qualitative part explored the challenges towards their adoption.

Findings

The results revealed that Internet of things, big data, cloud computing, artificial intelligence and cyber physical systems were the preferred FIR technologies for hotels. The findings revealed significant relationships between respondents' socio-demographic characteristics (age, gender, working experience, etc.) and preferred FIR technologies. Penultimately, challenges that affect the adoption of FIR technologies including investment cost, migration cost, trust, etc., were discussed.

Originality/value

In effect, findings from this study provide valuable information for policy makers (i.e. hotel owners, management, technology providers and future researchers). Most especially, the study unearths specific FIR technologies preferred by the hospitality and tourism industry. Also, the significant interplay of these preferences vis a vis respondents' socio-demographic characteristics, as well as challenges influencing their adoption also have major implications for policy makers. Another valuable contribution of this study lies in the research method utilised, since most studies on technology adoption either use quantitative or qualitative. These contributions for theory and practice have been thoroughly discussed.
Intersex is required for female sexual development in Hermetia illucens
Authors: Chen Bihui , Kou Zongqing , Jiang Yuguo , Luo Xingyu , Li Peili , Sun Kaiji , Wang Weiwei , Huang Yongping , Wang Yaohui
Published: January 2023

Sex‐determination pathways are extremely diverse. Understanding the mechanism of sex determination in insects is important for genetic manipulation of the pest population and for breeding of economically valuable insects. Although sex determination has been well characterized in the model species Drosophila melanogaster, little is known about this pathway in Stratiomyidae. In the present study, we first identified the Drosophila intersex (ix) homolog in Hermetia illucens, also known as the black soldier fly, which belongs to the Stratiomyidae family and which is an important insect for the conversion of various organic wastes. Phylogenetic analyses and multiple sequence alignment revealed that Hiix is conserved compared with Drosophila. We showed that Hiix is highly expressed in internal genitalia. Disruption of the Hiix gene using CRISPR/Cas9 resulted in female‐specific defects in external genitalia and abnormal and undersized ovaries. Taken together, our study furthers our understanding of sex determination in insects and could facilitate breeding of H. illucens.
How to choose the appropriate cannulation technique for vascular access in hemodialysis patients
Authors: Sousa Clemente Neves , Teles Paulo , Ribeiro Olga Maria Pimenta Lopes , Sousa Rui , Lira Marta Nunes , Delgado Elisabete , Oliveira Debora , Campos Luís , Fernandes Filipa , Moura Sandra Cristina Mendo , Delgado Millena Freire , Sá Tiago Gomes , Teixeira Sílvia Mónica Pereira , Souza Lara Helk , Ribeiro Rita Cássia Helú Mendonça , Oliveira Gabriela Fernanda Neves , Mendonça Ana Elza Oliveira , Ozen Nurten
Published: January 2023

The cannulation technique is important for the survival of the arteriovenous access. Choosing the appropriate technique is a complex decision. Such choice must be customized to patients, considering their characteristics, the type of arteriovenous access and the experience of the hemodialysis team. We describe seven items that can help nurses to identify the appropriate cannulation technique: type of arteriovenous access; drainage vein; hygienic self‐care profile; experience of the nursing staff in the cannulation technique and nurse‐to‐patient ratio; hemodialysis treatment method; patient's condition; and patient's decision. Such items can help nurses in decision‐making on the “ideal” cannulation technique for each patient.
Insight into property, function, and digestion of potato starch modified by phenolic compounds with varying structures
Authors: Chen Nan , Gao Hao‐Xiang , He Qiang , Zeng Wei‐Cai
Published: January 2023

Influences of structural characteristics of phenolic compounds on the properties of potato starch were investigated, and their effects on the quality, function, and digestion of potato starch noodles were further determined. All testing phenolic compounds (including protocatechuic acid [PA], naringin [NA], and tannic acid [TA]) exhibited the significant capability to modify the thermal properties, rheological properties, and enzymatic hydrolysis of potato starch. The high amount of hydroxyl groups, the presence of glycoside structure, appropriate molecular size, and steric hindrance were beneficial to enhance their effects on potato starch. In addition, by changing the microstructure of starch hydrocolloids, PA, NA, and TA could affect the color, texture properties, and cooking properties of potato starch noodles. Meanwhile, PA and TA could endow potato starch noodles with remarkable antioxidant activity. Furthermore, the in vitro digestion of potato starch noodles was obviously inhibited by phenolic compounds, especially for TA. All present results suggested that structural characteristics of phenolic compounds affected their interaction affinity and combination degree with potato starch molecules, so as to modify the properties of starch and affect the quality, function, and digestion of starchy foods, which showed the valuable applications in food and chemical industries.

Practical Application

The property, function, and digestion characteristics of potato starch show the significant effects on the quality of potato starch products in food industry. In present study, the thermal properties, rheological properties, and enzymatic hydrolysis of potato starch were modified by different phenolic compounds (including protocatechuic acid, naringin, and tannic acid) in varying degrees, whereas the quality, antioxidant activity, and digestion characteristic of potato starch noodles were modified by phenolic compounds with different structures. All results showed the potential application and interaction regularities of phenolic compounds as natural additives for potato starch processing in food industry.
A quantitative analysis of the perceived barriers to implementation of multisource feedback in surgical training
Authors: Pan Tzong‐Yang (Oliver) , Piscioneri Frank , Owen Cathy
Published: January 2023

Background

The adoption and integration of work‐based assessments by surgical units and training programs continues to increase, it is important to identify challenges in their implementation. The authors evaluated the barriers involved in the deployment of a supervisor assessment tool in Australia.

Methods

A questionnaire was created based on existing literature from international, and non‐surgical contexts. The questionnaire covered areas known to impact multisource feedback assessments. The questionnaire was delivered in September 2019 to 34 trainees and 25 supervisors. Participants then rated each item within the questionnaire on a Likert scale.

Results

During the survey period, 23 of 25 (92%) supervisors and 31 of 34 (91.1%) trainees completed the questionnaire. The results show that an assessment form is well received and there is a difference between trainees and supervisors on perspectives surrounding impact on trainee‐supervisor relationships, how a trainee manages negative feedback, consequences of poor scores, the importance of anonymity, and acceptability of input from allied health and nursing staff.

Conclusion

The results provide reassurance that the perception of supervisors who felt that negative ratings may affect trainee‐supervisor relationships is unfounded. A digital distribution format of self‐assessment and supervisor assessment forms is well received by participants. This method of assessment should provide trainees an additional source of feedback, and opportunities for self‐reflection during their training.
One for all or all for one: Does the category captain play favourites
Authors: Kim Myongjin , Shen Leilei , Basuroy Suman , Beldona Sri
Published: January 2023

In the consumer packaged goods industry, category captain is the company (e.g., Pepsi) that retailers (e.g., Kroger) designate as the leader of an entire product category (e.g., carbonated beverages) and collaborate with to manage the product category through the process of category management. Much uncertainty exists about the consequences of category management. We use a unique data set on the ready‐to‐eat cereals category in which the retailer designated a category captain. In this paper, we find that category captain does not have more to gain in terms of market shares than other products within the ready‐to‐eat cereals category, alleviating antitrust concerns related to category management. In addition, we find that category captain increases the market share of products that are more price competitive, not necessarily that of its own products, which points to a category captain focusing on growing the category's market as it is incentivized to do so.
Exosomal miR‐3131 derived from endothelial cells with KRAS mutation promotes EndMT by targeting PICK1 in brain arteriovenous malformations
Authors: He Qiheng , Huo Ran , Wang Jie , Xu Hongyuan , Zhao Shaozhi , Zhang Junze , Sun Yingfan , Jiao Yuming , Weng Jiancong , Zhao Jizong , Cao Yong
Published: January 2023

Aims

To explore the underlying mechanism by which low‐frequency KRAS mutations result in extensive EndMT occurrence.

Methods

Exosomes derived from primarily cultured brain arteriovenous malformation (bAVMs) and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) transfected with KRASG12D, KRASWT, or KRASNC lentiviruses were isolated, and their effects on HUVECs were identified by western blotting and immunofluorescence staining. The expression levels of exosomal microRNAs (miRNAs) were evaluated by miRNA microarray, followed by functional experiments on miR‐3131 and detection of its downstream target, and miR‐3131 inhibitor in reversing the EndMT process induced by KRASG12D‐transfected HUVECs and bAVM endothelial cells (ECs) were explored.

Results

Exosomes derived from KRASG12D bAVM ECs and KRASG12D‐transfected HUVECs promoted EndMT in HUVECs. MiR‐3131 levels were highest in the exosomes of KRASG12D‐transfected HUVECs, and HUVECs transfected with the miR‐3131 mimic acquired mesenchymal phenotypes. RNA‐seq and dual‐luciferase reporter assays revealed that PICK1 is the direct downstream target of miR‐3131. Exosomal miR‐3131 was highly expressed in KRASG12D bAVMexos compared with non‐KRAS‐mutant bAVMexos or HUVECexos. Finally, a miR‐3131 inhibitor reversed EndMT in HUVECs treated with exosomes or the supernatant of KRASG12D‐transfected HUVECs and KRASG12D bAVM ECs.

Conclusion

Exosomal miR‐3131 promotes EndMT in KRAS‐mutant bAVMs, and miR‐3131 might be a potential biomarker and therapeutic target in KRASG12D‐mutant bAVMs.
Organizational resilience and interorganizational relationships: An exploration of Chinese business service firms
Authors: You Jacqueline Jing , Williams Christopher
Published: January 2023

Much research on organizational resilience has focused on the intraorganizational capacity that enables positive adjustment to disruption. Yet, when seen as open systems, organizations are highly interdependent and interconnected with many other actors. This raises the question of how interorganizational relationships (IORs) affect organizational resilience. We explore this using a novel inductive two‐stage approach incorporating fuzzy cognitive mapping to identify the relational determinants of organizational resilience in the context of Chinese business service firms. Using this technique reveals five relational dimensions, which we label relational competence, innovative assimilation, integrative trustworthiness, identity constraints, and asymmetry. The analysis also shows how these interrelate to either positively or negatively affect organizational resilience. This is a new way of understanding organizational resilience and shows how it is determined by a complex interplay between IOR attributes in the external relational environment of the organization.
Functional, genetic, and structural constraints on the exaggeration and diversification of male genital morphology inOhomopterusground beetles
Authors: Terada Karen , Takahashi Sougo , Takami Yasuoki
Published: January 2023

The evolution of exaggerated sexual traits may be possible by the relaxation of various constraints on exaggeration. Functional constraints refer to the reduced performance of exaggerated traitsper seor increased survival costs by holding the exaggerated traits. Genetic constraints, such as genetic correlations or pleiotropy, may hinder the independent evolution and exaggeration of traits. Structural constraints, such as competition for space and resources among traits, may require the coordination of the exaggerated trait with surrounding structures. The remarkable diversity of male genital morphology provides an ideal opportunity for examining constraints on sexual trait exaggeration. In this study, we addressed the constraints on the evolution of exaggerated male genital morphology based on a comparative analysis of phenotypic covariation between the genitalia and other body parts usingOhomopterusground beetles. We found that exaggerated male genitalia were related to a relaxation of functional constraint, as revealed by a steeper allometric slope in the species with exaggerated male genitalia. By contrast, genetic constraint based on a shared genetic basis for the male genitalia and other appendages may have little effect on diversification in male genitalia. Structural constraints were strongest in the species with the most exaggerated male genitalia, suggesting that the observed constraint was a result of exaggeration. These findings improve our understanding of sexual trait exaggeration and underlying constraints.
Morphological and sensorimotor phenotypes in a zebrafish CHARGE syndrome model are domain‐dependent
Authors: Hodorovich Dana R. , Lindsley Patrick M. , Berry Austen A. , Burton Derek F. , Marsden Kurt C.
Published: January 2023

CHARGE syndrome is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by a spectrum of defects affecting multiple tissues and behavioral difficulties such as autism, attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, obsessive–compulsive disorder, anxiety, and sensory deficits. Most CHARGE cases arise from de novo, loss‐of‐function mutations in chromodomain‐helicase‐DNA‐binding‐protein‐7 (CHD7). CHD7 is required for processes such as neuronal differentiation and neural crest cell migration, but how CHD7 affects neural circuit function to regulate behavior is unclear. To investigate the pathophysiology of behavioral symptoms in CHARGE, we established a mutant chd7 zebrafish line that recapitulates multiple CHARGE phenotypes including ear, cardiac, and craniofacial defects. Using a panel of behavioral assays, we found that chd7 mutants have specific auditory and visual behavior deficits that are independent of defects in sensory structures. Mauthner cell‐dependent short‐latency acoustic startle responses are normal in chd7 mutants, while Mauthner‐independent long‐latency responses are reduced. Responses to sudden decreases in light are also reduced in mutants, while responses to sudden increases in light are normal, suggesting that the retinal OFF pathway may be affected. Furthermore, by analyzing multiple chd7 alleles we observed that the penetrance of morphological and behavioral phenotypes is influenced by genetic background but that it also depends on the mutation location, with a chromodomain mutation causing the highest penetrance. This pattern is consistent with analysis of a CHARGE patient dataset in which symptom penetrance was highest in subjects with mutations in the CHD7 chromodomains. These results provide new insight into the heterogeneity of CHARGE and will inform future work to define CHD7‐dependent neurobehavioral mechanisms.
‘I felt alive’: A qualitative study of inpatients' perspectives on good mental health nursing in South Korea
Authors: Ahn Suyoun , Shin Soyoung
Published: January 2023

Although mental health nurses continuously strive for patients' well‐being, patients still experience inpatient care negatively. To identify an individual's actual, mental health nursing care needs and offers them optimal benefits during their hospital stay, determining what patients perceive as good nursing should be prioritized. This qualitative descriptive study aimed to understand good mental health nursing from the inpatients' perspective. The data were collected through semi‐structured interviews with 13 patients admitted to a psychiatric ward in South Korea, and analysed using thematic analysis. The Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research (COREQ) guidelines were used to ensure transparency and rigour. The results revealed that patients experienced good mental health nursing when nurses respected their humanity, adopted a practical approach to solve problems pragmatically, and facilitated their recovery. These practices stem from mental health nurses' attitudes towards humanity based on individualized respect, professional ability to handle patients' individual needs, and offering patients hope and confidence for recovery and the future. Therefore, mental health nurses need to focus their efforts on these aspects of nursing attitudes and competencies to ensure that inpatients experience good mental health nursing.
RETRACTED: Thoughts and experiences regarding leg amputation among patients with diabetic foot ulcers: A phenomenological study
Authors: Yip Ka‐Huen , Yip Yuk‐Chiu , Tsui Wai‐King
Published: January 2023

Despite lower‐limb amputation being common among patients with diabetic foot ulcers, few studies have qualitatively investigated the patients' perspectives. Therefore, this study aimed to explore the thoughts and experiences of patients with diabetic foot ulcers regarding lower‐limb amputation in Hong Kong. A phenomenological study using individual, semi‐structured interviews was conducted with 18 participants with foot ulcers recruited in Hong Kong between July and September 2022. The interviews were audio‐recorded, transcribed verbatim, and analysed using an interpretative phenomenological approach and a constant comparison strategy. The results highlighted four substantial themes: (a) coping or being alone and taciturn, (b) altered appearance impacting one's sense of maintaining social relations, (c) thoughts about self‐efficacy and encountering a new normal, and (d) the possibility of a reduced gap in physical consequences between the old and new self. This study provided different perspectives of patients with a history of diabetic foot ulcers, even in cases where lower‐limb amputation has not yet been performed. The results demonstrate that lower‐limb amputation is considered a forbidden topic. This makes it culturally difficult for Chinese patients to discuss the matter with healthcare authorities and family members. Healthcare workers should be aware of how they communicate regarding lower‐limb amputation.
Exploring the microstructure of hydrated collagen hydrogels under scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Merryweather Daniel J. , Weston Nicola , Roe Jordan , Parmenter Christopher , Lewis Mark P. , Roach Paul
Published: January 2023

Collagen hydrogels are a rapidly expanding platform in bioengineering and soft materials engineering for novel applications focused on medical therapeutics, medical devices and biosensors. Observations linking microstructure to material properties and function enables rational design strategies to control this space. Visualisation of the microscale organisation of these soft hydrated materials presents unique technical challenges due to the relationship between hydration and the molecular organisation of a collagen gel. Scanning electron microscopy is a robust tool widely employed to visualise and explore materials on the microscale. However, investigation of collagen gel microstructure is difficult without imparting structural changes during preparation and/or observation. Electrons are poorly propagated within liquid‐phase materials, limiting the ability of electron microscopy to interrogate hydrated gels. Sample preparation techniques to remove water induce artefactual changes in material microstructure particularly in complex materials such as collagen, highlighting a critical need to develop robust material handling protocols for the imaging of collagen hydrogels. Here a collagen hydrogel is fabricated, and the gel state explored under high‐vacuum (10−6 Pa) and low‐vacuum (80–120 Pa) conditions, and in an environmental SEM chamber. Visualisation of collagen fibres is found to be dependent on the degree of sample hydration, with higher imaging chamber pressures and humidity resulting in decreased feature fidelity. Reduction of imaging chamber pressure is used to induce evaporation of gel water content, revealing collagen fibres of significantly larger diameter than observed in samples dehydrated prior to imaging. Rapid freezing and cryogenic handling of the gel material is found to retain a porous 3D structure following sublimation of the gel water content. Comparative analysis of collagen hydrogel materials demonstrates the care needed when preparing hydrogel samples for electron microscopy.
Role of HIF‐1α in pathogenic mechanisms of keloids
Authors: Qiu Zi‐kai , Zhang Ming‐zi , Zhang Wen‐chao , Li Zhi‐jin , Si Lou‐bin , Long Xiao , Yu Nan‐ze , Wang Xiao‐jun
Published: January 2023

Backgrouds and Objective

Keloids are defined as overrepairing products that develop after skin lesions. Keloids are characterized by the proliferation of fibroblasts and the overaccumulation of extracellular matrix components (mainly collagen), leading to a locally hypoxic microenvironment. Hence, this article was aimed to review hypoxia in pathogenesis of keloids.

Methods

We reviewed and summarized the relevant published studies.

Results

Hypoxia results in the accumulation of hypoxia‐inducible factor 1α (HIF‐1α) in keloids, contributing to overactivation of the fibrotic signaling pathway, epithelial–mesenchymal transition, and changes in metabolism, eventually leading to aggravated fibrosis, infiltrative growth, and radiotherapy resistance.

Conclusion

It is, therefore, essential to understand the role of HIF‐1α in the pathogenic mechanisms of keloids in order to develop new therapeutic approaches.
Facial psoriasis in the etiology of prolonged erythema following medium‐depth chemical peels for severe photodamage
Authors: Leow Liang Joo , Zubrzycki Nicolas
Published: January 2023

Background

Chemical peeling is the controlled wounding of the epidermis and dermis for skin rejuvenation, involving the application of ablative agents to induce keratolysis and regeneration of damaged cell layers. Prolonged erythema is one complication of this procedure. We report the prevalence and probable etiology of prolonged facial erythema in a cohort of patients treated with medium‐depth chemical peels.

Materials and Methods

A retrospective audit was conducted of all medium‐depth facial chemical peels performed at two major teaching hospitals. All patients had severe facial photodamage affecting at least 75% surface area of the face. The occurrence of prolonged erythema following this peel was then identified and analyzed.

Results

Of our treatment cohort (n = 82, 51 women, 31 men) with 60 years mean (61.3 years for women, 56.7 years for men), 10 patients (12%; eight women, two men) experienced prolonged erythema beyond a month of treatment. Facial psoriasis was not apparent at the time of chemical peel but manifested as prolonged erythema beyond the expected timeframe following the procedure.

Conclusion

When patients experience prolonged erythema beyond a month of treatment and fail to respond to standard treatments, clinicians should examine carefully for extra‐facial psoriasis prior to this procedure, and also consider facial psoriasis a possible cause of prolonged post‐peel erythema.
Regulation of epidermal proliferation and hair follicle cycling by synthetic photostable retinoid EC23
Authors: Määttä Arto , Nixon Rebecca , Robinson Neil , Ambler Carrie A. , Goncalves Kirsty , Maltman Victoria , Przyborski Stefan
Published: January 2023

Background

Retinoid signaling is an important regulator of the epidermis and skin appendages. Therefore, synthetic retinoids have been developed for therapeutic use for skin disorders such as psoriasis and acne.

Aims

In previous studies, we showed how the photostable retinoid EC23 induces neuronal differentiation in stem cell‐like cell populations, and here, we aim to investigate its ability to influence epidermal and hair follicle growth.

Methods

EC23 influence on skin biology was investigated initially in cultures of monolayer keratinocytes and three‐dimentional in vitro models of skin, and finally in in vivo studies of mice back skin.

Results

EC23 induces keratinocyte hyperproliferation in vitro and in vivo, and when applied to mouse skin increases the number of involucrin‐positive suprabasal cell layers. These phenotypic changes are similar in skin treated with the natural retinoid all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA); however, EC23 is more potent; a tenfold lower dose of EC23 is sufficient to induce epidermal thickening, and resulting hyperproliferation is sustained for a longer time period after first dose. EC23 treatment resulted in a disorganized stratum corneum, reduced cell surface lipids and compromised barrier, similar to ATRA treatment. However, EC23 induces a rapid telogen to anagen transition and hair re‐growth in 6‐week‐old mice with synchronously resting back skin follicles. The impact of EC23 on the hair cycle was surprising as similar results have not been seen with ATRA.

Conclusions

These data suggest that synthetic retinoid EC23 is a useful tool in exploring the turnover and differentiation of cells and has a potent effect on skin physiology.
Mussel adhesive protein treatment delivered by microneedling for sensitive skin: A clinical study
Authors: Dong Richeng , Jin Qingmei , Zhi Jiahui , Luo Yinli , Yuan Jiachen , Pi Longquan , Nan Meilan , Jin Zhehu , Jin Chenglong
Published: January 2023

Background

Mussel adhesive protein (MAP) is extracted from the mycelial glands of marine mussels. It has anti‐inflammatory properties and may relieve skin itching and other symptoms.

Aims

Based on the anti‐inflammatory effect of MAP, this study was designed to treat sensitive skin (SS) using MAP delivered by skin microneedling.

Patients/methods

Twenty‐three Chinese female patients with SS were enrolled. Treatments were delivered three times at one‐month intervals. Symptom improvement and recurrence rates, treatment safety, and patient satisfaction levels were evaluated.

Results

After one course of treatment, 20 patients had a Symptom Score Reducing Index (SSRI) of >20%, with an effectiveness rate of 87%. At the end of treatment, all patients had an SSRI of >20%, and the effectiveness rate was 100%. Dryness, tightness, desquamation, flushing, burning, itching, and tingling improved. After treatment, the Clinical Erythema Assessment and Lesion Severity Index of Facial Telangiectasia scores were significantly decreased. Clinical photographs following treatment revealed improved erythema reaction and decreased capillary density. During treatment, the patients experienced mild pain and erythema and swelling reaction without exudation. Complications, such as pigmentation changes or scarring, were absent. Additionally, there were no cases of recurrence, and patient satisfaction levels were high.

Conclusion

MAP combined with microneedling can help treat SS, showing satisfactory safety outcomes and high patient satisfaction.
Racial Differences in Black and White Residential Outcomes in the Sundown Era
Authors: Tobias‐Lauerman Abigail
Published: January 2023

Using publicly available census and historical records, I compare the Sundown‐era residential patterns and outcomes of Black and White residents from one small Wisconsin city between 1880 and 1930 to observe how sundown violence may have affected Black residential outcomes. Census summary data shows that while the White racial group population continued to grow at the state, county, and city levels, the Black population at the city level stalled before dropping to zero, providing evidence for sundown‐type violence and exclusion against Black households by White city residents. For the Black residents (N = 18) whose histories I could trace, three outcomes were observed: remaining in the city, internally migrating to an adjacent county, and moving to much larger metropolitan areas that were already known as Black residential destinations. In contrast, the residential outcomes for White residents (n = 42) were much more varied in their residential destinations, both at the state/regional levels, and in the size of community settled in. I suggest that sundown‐era displacement should be further considered in discussions of Black internal migration in the early 20th century, and that residents of formerly sundown towns and cities need to confront their under‐examined histories of racial exclusion.
Revisiting Religious Ethics as Field and Discipline
Authors: Herdt Jennifer A.
Published: January 2023

Returning to John P. Reeder's 1978 essay on “Religious Ethics as a Field and Discipline,” this essay explores debates surrounding the original intentions for the Journal of Religious Ethics (JRE) and for the field of religious ethics, as these have played out over the decades among an influential group of scholars involved with the JRE since its inception: Arthur Dyck, Ronald Green, Stanley Hauerwas, and Jeffrey Stout. While the JRE and its founding mission are in need of ongoing critique and transformation, we might well still affirm the journal's ongoing importance as a site for the negotiation of a commons, the identification of possibilities for shared life, imagined beyond exclusion and domination.
Phylogeography and introgression between Pinus kesiya and Pinus yunnanensis in Southeast Asia
Authors: Gao Jie , Tomlinson Kyle W. , Zhao Wei , Wang Baosheng , Lapuz Ralph Sedricke , Liu Jing‐Xin , Pasion Bonifacio O. , Hai Bach T. , Chanthayod Souvick , Chen Jin , Wang Xiao‐Ru
Published: January 2023

Southeast Asia (SEA) has seen strong climatic oscillations and fluctuations in sea levels during the Quaternary. The impact of past climate changes on the evolution and distribution of local flora in SEA is still poorly understood. Here we aim to infer how the Quaternary climate change affects the evolutionary process and range shifts in two pine species. We investigated the population genetic structure and diversity using cytoplasmic DNA markers, and performed ecological niche modeling to reconstruct the species past distribution and to project range shift under future climates. We found substantial gene flow across the continuous distribution of the subtropical Pinus yunnanensis. In contrast, the tropical Pinus kesiya showed a strong population structure in accordance with its disjunct distribution across montane islands in Indochina and the Philippines. A broad hybrid zone of the two species occurs in southern Yunnan. Asymmetric introgression from the two species was detected in this zone with dominant mitochondrial gene flow from P. yunnanensis and chloroplast gene flow from P. kesiya. The observed population structure suggests a typical postglaciation expansion in P. yunnanensis, and a glacial expansion and interglacial contraction in P. kesiya. Ecological niche modeling supports the inferred demographic history and predicts a decrease in range size for P. kesiya under future climates. Our results suggest that tropical pine species in SEA have undergone evolutionary trajectories different from high latitude species related to their Quaternary climate histories. We also illustrate the need for urgent conservation actions in this fragmented landscape.
The role of local inflammation in complications associated with intubation in pediatric patients: A narrative review
Authors: Amaya Sebastian , Murillo Marcelino , Gutiérrez Pérez Martha L. , Cervera Hector S. , Andrade María J. , Zuñiga María A. , Barreto Natalia , Daza María I. , Carvajal Luisa F. , Alarcón Catalina M. , Aponte Laura , Olbrecht Vanessa A.
Published: January 2023

Although the most important primary local inflammatory response factor to intubation is not yet clear, it is known that it may be directly attributed to the presence of trauma during intubation or the response of oral bacterial flora present in the trachea. It is known that prolonged intubation is associated with worse outcomes, but other underlying systemic issues, such as sepsis and trauma, are also associated with this result. Likewise, patients who require advanced airway management and excessive manipulation are more likely to experience complications. There are various inflammatory mediators that are generated during orotracheal intubation, many of which can be considered targets for therapies to help reduce inflammation caused by intubation. However, there is little evidence on the management of the inflammatory response induced by orotracheal intubation in pediatric patients. Therefore, the aim of this narrative review is to highlight the intubation associated complications that can arise from poorly controlled inflammation in intubated pediatric patients, review the proposed pathophysiology behind this, and discuss the current treatments that exist. Finally, taking into account the discussion on pathophysiology, we describe the current therapies being developed and future directions that can be taken in order to create more treatment options within this patient population.
Neighbourhood‐related socioeconomic perinatal health inequalities: An illustration of the mediational g‐formula and considerations for the big data context
Authors: Ochoa Lizbeth Burgos , van der Meer Lindsey , Waelput Adja J. M. , Been Jasper V. , Bertens Loes C. M.
Published: January 2023

Background

Advances in computing power have enabled the collection, linkage and processing of big data. Big data in conjunction with robust causal inference methods can be used to answer research questions regarding the mechanisms underlying an exposure–outcome relationship. The g‐formula is a flexible approach to perform causal mediation analysis that is suited for the big data context. Although this approach has many advantages, it is underused in perinatal epidemiology and didactic explanation for its implementation is still limited.

Objective

The aim of this was to provide a didactic application of the mediational g‐formula by means of perinatal health inequalities research.

Methods

The analytical procedure of the mediational g‐formula is illustrated by investigating whether the relationship between neighbourhood socioeconomic status (SES) and small for gestational age (SGA) is mediated by neighbourhood social environment. Data on singleton births that occurred in the Netherlands between 2010 and 2017 (n = 1,217,626) were obtained from the Netherlands Perinatal Registry and linked to sociodemographic national registry data and neighbourhood‐level data. The g‐formula settings corresponded to a hypothetical improvement in neighbourhood SES from disadvantaged to non‐disadvantaged.

Results

At the population level, a hypothetical improvement in neighbourhood SES resulted in a 6.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 5.2, 7.5) relative reduction in the proportion of SGA, that is the total effect. The total effect was decomposed into the natural direct effect (5.6%, 95% CI 5.1, 6.1) and the natural indirect effect (0.7%, 95% CI 0.6, 0.9). In terms of the magnitude of mediation, it was observed the natural indirect effect accounted for 11.4% (95% CI 9.2, 13.6) of the total effect of neighbourhood SES on SGA.

Conclusions

The mediational g‐formula is a flexible approach to perform causal mediation analysis that is suited for big data contexts in perinatal health research. Its application can contribute to providing valuable insights for the development of policy and public health interventions.
Cardiac timing and threatening stimuli influence response inhibition and ex‐Gaussian parameters of reaction time in a Go/No‐go task
Authors: Yang Xiao , Spangler Derek P. , Jennings J. Richard , Friedman Bruce H.
Published: January 2023

Sensorimotor responses vary as a function of the cardiac cycle phase. These effects, known as cardiac cycle time effects, have been explained by the inhibition of cardiac afferent signals on information processing. However, the validity of cardiac cycle time effects is challenged by mixed findings. Factors such as current information processing and affective context may modulate cardiac cycle time effects and account for inconsistencies in the literature. The current study examines the influence of cardiac cycle time and threatening stimuli on two aspects of sensorimotor processing, response speed and inhibition. Thirty‐four participants (Mage = 19.35 years; 29 female) completed an auditory Go/No‐go task in no face, neutral face, and fearful face conditions. Faces were presented at either cardiac diastole or systole. Participants' reaction times (RTs) during Go trials and failures in response inhibition during No‐go trials were recorded. The ex‐Gaussian model was fit to RT data in each condition deriving the parameters, mu (μ) and tau (τ), that indicate response speed and attentional lapses, respectively. Repeated measures ANOVA were used to analyze behavioral data. Results showed that cardiac systole prolonged μ but decreased τ, and that cardiac diastole reduced inhibition errors in the fearful face condition but not in other conditions. These findings indicate that cardiac timing differentially modulates sensory‐perceptual and top‐down attentional processes and cardiac timing interacts with threatening contexts to influence response inhibition. These results highlight the specificity of cardiac cycle time effects on sensorimotor processing.
Graph-based sequential beamforming
Authors: Park Yongsung , Meyer Florian , Gerstoft Peter
Published: January 2023

This paper presents a Bayesian estimation method for sequential direction finding. The proposed method estimates the number of directions of arrivals (DOAs) and their DOAs performing operations on the factor graph. The graph represents a statistical model for sequential beamforming. At each time step, belief propagation predicts the number of DOAs and their DOAs using posterior probability density functions (pdfs) from the previous time and a different Bernoulli-von Mises state transition model. Variational Bayesian inference then updates the number of DOAs and their DOAs. The method promotes sparse solutions through a Bernoulli-Gaussian amplitude model, is gridless, and provides marginal posterior pdfs from which DOA estimates and their uncertainties can be extracted. Compared to nonsequential approaches, the method can reduce DOA estimation errors in scenarios involving multiple time steps and time-varying DOAs. Simulation results demonstrate performance improvements compared to state-of-the-art methods. The proposed method is evaluated using ocean acoustic experimental data.
Inflammatory epilepsy (FIRES) and haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH): an adult case
Authors: Kam Ian , Prentice David , Kho Lay Kun , Dharsono Ferry
Published: January 2023

We describe a man in his 30s with haemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis (HLH), secondary to an upper respiratory tract infection, with subsequent febrile infection-related epilepsy syndrome. He had a prolonged hospital admission, during which he was treated with chemotherapy for HLH and antiepileptic medications for refractory seizures. He was discharged fully dependent to a care facility and died from aspiration pneumonia 11 months later. This case report highlights his management and discusses these conditions’ pathophysiology and future management.
Unusual case of dislocation of cyanoacrylate glue into the anterior chamber
Authors: Mukhija Ritika , Trim May Tyra , Nanavaty Mayank A
Published: January 2023

A patient with history of previous right eye penetrating keratoplasty for viral keratitis presented with an inferonasal graft melt, loose sutures and a flat anterior chamber (AC) in the same eye. B-scan ultrasound revealed 360° choroidal detachment. Cyanoacrylate adhesive and bandage contact lens were placed to restore ocular integrity. About 5 weeks after the procedure, the glue was found inside the AC with healed corneal melt. An emergency procedure was planned to remove the intraocular glue to prevent long-term toxicity. During the procedure, glue was found adherent to the intraocular lens (IOL), which necessitated an IOL exchange. Following the procedure, the eye settled well with residual scarring and an uncorrected visual acuity of 6/60, which improved to 6/18 with a pinhole. We discuss this case of late dislocation of the glue into the AC, which was managed with an IOL exchange highlighting a rare complication of corneal glueing.
Worldwide associations of fruit and vegetable supply with blood pressure from 1975 to 2015: an ecological study
Authors: Oude Griep Linda M , Bentham James , Mahadevan Preveina
Published: January 2023

Low fruit and vegetable consumption is a major modifiable risk factor for raised blood pressure (BP), but it is unknown how heterogeneity in national supply has contributed to BP trends. To address this, we characterised supply trends from 1975 to 2015 and whether it met WHO recommendations. We then examined associations with three metrics: systolic, diastolic and raised BP. We used ecological data on fruit and vegetable supply and on BP for 159 countries. We examined trends in fruit and vegetable supply from 1975 to 2015 by country and World Bank income region. Multivariable linear regression was used to examine cross-sectional associations with BP. Global fruit and vegetable supply increased from 1975 to 2015, but with heterogeneous national and regional trends. While WHO recommendations were met globally, this target was not met in almost half the countries, of which many were low-income countries. Significant associations between combined fruit and vegetable supply and raised BP were observed. Over the past four decades, combined fruit and vegetable supply has been consistently and strongly associated with lower prevalence of raised BP globally. However, the heterogeneous regional trends in fruit and vegetable supply underpin the need for international organisations and individual governments to introduce or strengthen policies for increased fruit and vegetable supply to reduce the burden of non-communicable diseases at national and global levels.
Parent perceptions and decision making about treatments for epilepsy: a qualitative evidence synthesis
Authors: Uhl Stacey , Konnyu Kristin , Wilson Renee , Adam Gaelen , Robinson Karen A , Viswanathan Meera
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Epilepsy treatment decision making is complex and understanding what informs caregiver decision making about treatment for childhood epilepsy is crucial to better support caregivers and their children. We synthesised evidence on caregivers’ perspectives and experiences of treatments for childhood epilepsy.

Design

Systematic review of qualitative studies using a best-fit framework and Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation Confidence in the Evidence from Reviews of Qualitative Research (GRADE-CERQual) approach.

Data sources

Searched Embase, PubMed, CINAHL, PsycINFO, SocINDEX and Web of Science from 1 January 1999 to 19 August 2021.

Eligibility criteria

We included qualitative studies examining caregiver’s perspectives on antiseizure medication, diet or surgical treatments for childhood epilepsy. We excluded studies not reported in English.

Data extraction and synthesis

We extracted qualitative evidence into 1 of 14 domains defined by the Theoretical Domains Framework (TDF). One reviewer extracted study data and methodological characteristics, and two reviewers extracted qualitative findings. The team verified all extractions. We identified themes within TDF domains and synthesised summary statements of these themes. We assessed our confidence in our summary statements using GRADE-CERQual.

Results

We identified five studies (in six reports) of good methodological quality focused on parent perceptions of neurosurgery; we found limited indirect evidence on parents’ perceptions of medications or diet. We identified themes within 6 of the 14 TDF domains relevant to treatment decisions: knowledge, emotion; social/professional role and identity; social influence; beliefs about consequences; and environmental context and resources.

Conclusions

Parents of children with epilepsy navigate a complex process to decide whether to have their child undergo surgery. Educational resources, peer support and patient navigators may help support parents through this process. More qualitative studies are needed on non-surgical treatments for epilepsy and among caregivers from different cultural and socioeconomic backgrounds to fully understand the diversity of perspectives that informs treatment decision making.