bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perceived stress negatively affects diet quality and life satisfaction during the COVID-19 lockdown period, in Greece
Authors: Costarelli Vassiliki , Michou Maria
Published: February 2023

Purpose

The pandemic of COVID-19 led to considerable challenges with respect to people's health, dietary behavior and satisfaction with life. This study aims to investigate perceived stress levels, in relation to diet quality and life satisfaction in Greek adults, during the COVID-19 lockdown.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a cross-sectional study which took place in Greece in the course of the strict lockdown period, in the third COVID-19 wave. A sample of 2,029 adults aged 18 years and above participated in an online survey. The questionnaire consisted of questions on sociodemographic and anthropometric characteristics. The Perceived Stress Scale, the Satisfaction with Life Scale and the Mediterranean Diet Assessment Tool were also used.

Findings

Linear regression has shown that women (p < 0.0001), younger individuals (p < 0.0001), obese individuals (p = 0.047), those with lower levels of satisfaction with life (p < 0.0001) and lower adherence to Mediterranean diet (p = 0.0001) were positively associated with higher levels of stress.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first study conducted in Greece aiming at investigating concurrently, levels of perceived stress, with respect to levels of satisfaction with life and diet quality in adults, during the lockdown period of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Libraries advancing health equity:a literature review
Authors: Wilson Amanda J. , Staley Catherine , Davis Brittney , Anton Blair
Published: February 2023

Purpose

Progress toward health equity is necessary to reduce health disparities, and health literacy is key to achieving this goal. Because libraries provide access to knowledge and insights about their communities, they are effective partners in advancing health equity and implementing programs to reduce health disparities. A literature review on library programs and activities that focus on promoting health equity was conducted.

Design/methodology/approach

A literature review on library programs and activities concerning health equity and social determinants of health was conducted. Relevant literature was identified from searches of databases, library publications and grey literature.

Findings

The authors found 224 eligible sources and many types of libraries advancing health equity. Libraries frame their role in advancing health equity through external programs in three ways: (1) providing access to high-quality health information, (2) delivering health literacy training and resources and (3) connecting their communities with community health services. Libraries also advance health equity by focusing on internal library operations and providing research services focused on cultural humility and competence as they apply to health care.

Originality/value

This literature review will help the National Library of Medicine (NLM) develop a strategy to support libraries advancing health equity through information made available by programs and activities of NLM and the Network of the National Library of Medicine.
Understanding experiences of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients at the emergency departments in Australia
Authors: Rahman Muhammad Aziz , Huda Md Nazmul , Somerville Emma , Penny Lauren , Dashwood Ryan , Bloxsome Sharon , Warrior Keith , Pratt Katie , Lankin Margaret , Kenny Kevin , Arabena Kerry
Published: February 2023

Objectives

The present study describes the experiences of Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients and the factors that shaped their experiences of ED visits in regional settings.

Methods

This is a qualitative descriptive study. We conducted semi‐structured in‐depth interviews with Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients who used the ED services at three hospitals in New South Wales, Northern Territory and South Australia. We coded the collected data and analysed them using a thematic analysis technique.

Results

A total of 33 Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients participated. Analyses of their experiences revealed four themes, which included: (i) patients' waiting times in ED; (ii) cultural determinants of health; (iii) treatment services; and (iv) safety, security and privacy.

Conclusions

A holistic approach and a robust hospital commitment to address cultural needs while considering overall health, social and emotional wellbeing, will enhance Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander patients' satisfaction for ED visits.
The complexity of cortical folding is reduced in chronic cocaine users
Authors: Trevisan Nicolò , Di Camillo Fabio , Ghiotto Niccolò , Cattarinussi Giulia , Sala Maddalena , Sambataro Fabio
Published: February 2023

Cocaine use is a worldwide health problem with psychiatric, somatic and socioeconomic complications, being the second most widely used illicit drug in the world. Despite several structural neuroimaging studies, the alterations in cortical morphology associated with cocaine use and addiction are still poorly understood. In this study, we compared the complexity of cortical folding (CCF), a measure that aims to summarize the convoluted structure of the cortex between patients with cocaine addiction (n = 52) and controls (n = 36), and correlated it with characteristics of addiction and impulsivity. We found that patients with cocaine addiction had greater impulsivity and showed reduced CCF in a cluster that encompassed the left insula and the supramarginal gyrus (SMG) and in one in the left medial orbitofrontal cortex. Finally, the CCF in the left medial orbitofrontal cortex was correlated with the age of onset of cocaine addiction and with attentional impulsivity. Overall, our findings suggest that chronic cocaine use is associated with changes in the cortical surface in the fronto‐parieto‐limbic regions that underlie emotional regulation and these changes are associated with earlier cocaine use. Future longitudinal studies are warranted to unravel the association of these changes with the diathesis for the disorder and with the chronic use of this substance.
Differentiation of human spermatogonial stem cells using a human decellularized testicular scaffold supplemented by platelet‐rich plasma
Authors: Salem Maryam , Feizollahi Narjes , Jabari Ayob , Golmohammadi Mohammad Ghasem , Shirinsokhan Armaghan , Ghanami Gashti Nasrin , Bashghareh Alieh , Nikmahzar Aghbibi , Abbasi Yasaman , Naji Mohammad , Abbasi Mehdi
Published: February 2023

Background

Effective culture systems for attachment, migration, proliferation, and differentiation of spermatogonial stem cells (SSCs) can be a promising therapeutic modality for preserving male fertility. Decellularized extracellular matrix (ECM) from native testis tissue creates a local microenvironment for testicular cell culture.

Furthermore, platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) contains various growth factors for the proliferation and differentiation of SSCs.

Methods

In this study, human testicular cells were isolated and cultured for 4 weeks, and SSCs were characterized using immunocytochemistry (ICC) and flow cytometry. Human testicular tissue was decellularized (0.3% SDS, 1% Triton), and the efficiency of the decellularization process was confirmed by histological staining and DNA content analysis. SSCs were cultured on the human decellularized testicular matrix (DTM) for 4 weeks. The viability and the expression of differentiation genes were evaluated by MTT and real‐time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), respectively.

Results

Histological evaluation and DNA content analysis showed that the components of ECM were preserved during decellularization. Our results showed that after 4 weeks of culture, the expression levels of BAX, BCL‐2, PLZF, and SCP3 were unchanged, while the expression of PRM2 significantly increased in the cells cultured on DTM supplemented with PRP (ECM‐PRP). In addition, the expression of GFRA1 was significantly decreased in the ECM group compared to the control and PRP groups. Furthermore, the MTT test indicated that viability was significantly enhanced in cells plated on DTM supplemented with PRP.

Conclusion

Our study demonstrated that DTM supplemented with PRP can provide an effective culture system for the differentiation and viability of SSCs.
Cortical activation and oxygen perfusion in preterm newborns during kangaroo mother care: A pilot study
Authors: Bembich Stefano , Castelpietra Elena , Cont Gabriele , Travan Laura , Cavasin Julia , Dolliani Matteo , Traino Rosaria , Demarini Sergio
Published: February 2023

Aim

This study aimed to assess the functional activation of preterm newborns' cerebral cortex during kangaroo mother care. Possible effects of gestational age and previous kangaroo mother care experience were also considered.

Methods

Fifteen preterm newborns were recruited (gestational age: 24–32 weeks). Cortical activation was assessed in frontal, motor and primary somatosensory cortices after 15 and 30 min of kangaroo mother care by multichannel near‐infrared spectroscopy (gestational age at assessment: 30–36 weeks). Both oxy‐ and deoxy‐haemoglobin variations were analysed by t‐test. Possible effects of gestational age and previous kangaroo mother care experience on cortical activation were studied by regression analysis.

Results

After 15 min, bilateral activations (oxy‐haemoglobin increase) were observed in frontal, somatosensory and motor cortices. After 30 min, the right motor and primary somatosensory cortices were found activated. Deoxy‐haemoglobin increased after 15 min, returning to baseline at 30 min. After 15 min, there was a positive effect of gestational age at the assessment on both haemoglobin concentrations and a negative effect of previous kangaroo mother care on deoxy‐haemoglobin increase.

Conclusion

Motor and somatosensory cortices, particularly on the right side, showed significant activation during kangaroo mother care. Kangaroo mother care seems to benefit activated cortical areas by improving oxygen supply.
Your voice pitch speaks volumes about you: How voice pitch affects mind perception of the speakers
Authors: Jin Wen Jie , Park Sang Hee
Published: February 2023

Three studies investigated how speakers' pitch affects listeners' attribution of mental capacity (e.g., the ability to feel emotions and physical sensations such as pain and pleasure; Gray et al., Science, 315, 2007, 619) to them and further explored downstream effects on social judgements. In Study 1 (N = 234), participants perceived more experience in higher‐(vs. lower‐)pitched speakers, whereas there was no significant difference in perception of agency to lower pitched or higher pitched speakers. In later studies, we expanded the relationship between male speakers' pitch and attributed experience in diverse contexts and observed that participants attributed more experience to higher pitched male victims, which was related to higher estimation of harm severity, leading to more negative judgement of the harmdoers (Study 2; N = 121) as well as recommendation for stronger treatment for the speakers (Study 3; N = 116). Our findings indicate that mind perception can vary as a function of targets' voice pitch, and in turn may influence people's judgements involving the speakers, as well as behavioural intentions towards them.
Change in lacrimal gland volume and aqueous tear production following treatment with teprotumumab
Authors: Ugradar Shoaib , Zimmerman Erin , Parunakian Emanuil , Kang Julia , Cockerham Kimberly , Douglas Raymond S.
Published: February 2023

Background

Dry eye syndrome occurs in up to 85% of patients with thyroid eye disease (TED). Lacrimal gland enlargement correlates with subjective tearing and a reduction in quality of life in patients with TED.

Methods

In this prospective longitudinal study, patients presenting for the treatment of TED were considered for eligible. Primary outcomes included a change in the volume of the lacrimal gland and the production of tears following treatment with teprotumumab. The volume of lacrimal glands and proptosis was calculated using 3D volumetric analysis. Tear production was measured by Schirmer's test and associated symptoms were assessed using the VLSQ‐8. The orbit with the most proptosis was designated the study orbit and the contralateral orbit was designated the fellow orbit.

Results

Twenty patients were included. Mean (SD) age was 61 (18) and mean duration of TED prior to therapy was 48 months (47). Lacrimal gland volume in the study orbit decreased from 768 mm3 (288) to 486 mm3 (173) (p < 0.01) following therapy. For the fellow orbit, volume reduced from 637 mm3 (261) to 379 mm3 (147) (p < 0.01). Schirmer's test reading (STR) in the study orbit increased from 14.5 mm (8.2) to 23 mm (10) (p < 0.01) (59%) following treatment. In the fellow orbit, STR increased from 12.7 mm (7) to 21 mm (9) post therapy (69%) (p < 0.01). There was a significant improvement on all parts of the VLSQ‐8.

Conclusion

Teprotumumab significantly reduces TED related expansion of the lacrimal gland, increases tear production, and improves dry eye symptoms.
Can hidradenitis suppurativa patients classify their lesions by means of a digital lesion identification scheme?
Authors: Schultheis Michael , Staubach‐Renz Petra , Grabbe Stephan , Hennig Katharina , Khoury Fareed , Nikolakis Georgios , Kirschner Uwe
Published: February 2023

Background and objectives

Hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) differs widely with respect to its clinical presentation. Literature imposes different phenotypes potentially implying different treatment modalities. The aim of this study is to develop a validated scheme that enables HS patients to identify their own lesion types.

Patients and Methods

The developed schemes for physicians and patients were implemented in a specific software. Upon patient consent, the physician used the software to document the lesions identified. Patients subsequently logged into the patient‐version of the software from the convenience of their home and selected the lesions they identified on themselves. Afterwards the correlation between professionals and patients was tested.

Results

For seven lesion types, correlation coefficients were statistically significant. A large/strong correlation between patients and physicians was found for the draining fistulas (0.59) and double‐ended comedones (0.50). For five other lesion types, correlation was medium/moderate, namely the inflammatory nodule (0.37), abscess (0.30), accordion like‐/ bridged scar (0.45), epidermal cyst (0.33) and pilonidal sinus (0.39).

Conclusions

HS‐patients demonstrate high willingness to share their experiences and data. Therefore, a self‐assessment scheme, as the developed LISAI, can be a valuable tool to enrich patient surveys with the identification of lesion types, for instance as a basis for phenotyping.
Single‐case experimental designs for child neurological rehabilitation and developmental disability research
Authors: Krasny‐Pacini Agata
Published: February 2023

Single‐case experimental designs (SCEDs) are a group of methodologies of growing interest, aiming to test the effectiveness of an intervention at the single‐participant level, using a rigorous and prospective methodology. SCEDs may promote flexibility on how we design research protocols and inform clinical decision‐making, especially for personalized outcome measures, inclusion of families with challenging needs, measurement of children's progress in relation to parental implementation of interventions, and focus on personal goals. Design options for SCEDs are discussed in relation to an expected on/off effect of the intervention (e.g. school/environmental adaptation, assistive technology devices) or, alternatively, on an expected carry‐on/maintenance of effects (interventions aiming to develop or restore a function). Randomization in multiple‐baseline designs and ‘power’ calculations are explained. The most frequent reasons for not detecting an intervention effect in SCEDs are also presented, especially in relation to baseline length, trend, and instability. The use of SCEDs on the front and back ends of randomized controlled trials is discussed.

What this paper adds

Single‐case experimental designs (SCEDs) may promote flexibility on how we design research protocols.

Randomization in multiple‐baseline designs allows ‘power’ calculations based on randomization tests.

Whenever feasible, N‐of‐1 trials should be preferred to other SCEDs and to group randomized controlled trials.
Executive function and behaviour problems in school‐age children born at risk of neonatal hypoglycaemia
Authors: Dai Darren W. T. , Franke Nike , McKinlay Christopher J. D. , Wouldes Trecia A. , Brown Gavin T. L. , Shah Rajesh , Nivins Samson , Harding Jane E. ,   for the Children With Hypoglycaemia and Their Later Development (CHYLD) Study Group
Published: February 2023

Aim

To examine the relationship between neonatal hypoglycaemia and specific areas of executive function and behaviour in mid‐childhood.

Method

Participants in a prospective cohort study of infants born late preterm or at term at risk of neonatal hypoglycaemia were assessed at 9 to 10 years. We assessed executive function using performance‐based (Cambridge Neuropsychological Tests Automated Battery) and questionnaire‐based (Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function) measures and behaviour problems with the Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire. Data are reported as adjusted odds ratio (aOR) with 95% confidence intervals, and standardized regression coefficients.

Results

We assessed 480 (230 females, 250 males; mean age 9 years 5 months [SD 4 months, range 8 years 8 months–11 years 0 months]) of 587 eligible children (82%). There were no differences in performance‐based executive function between children who did and did not experience neonatal hypoglycaemia (blood glucose <2.6 mmoL/L). However, children who experienced hypoglycaemia, especially if severe or recurrent, were at greater risk of parent‐reported metacognition difficulties (aOR 2.37–3.71), parent‐reported peer (aOR 1.62–1.89) and teacher‐reported conduct (aOR 2.14 for severe hypoglycaemia) problems. Both performance‐ and questionnaire‐based executive functions were associated with behaviour problems.

Interpretation

Neonatal hypoglycaemia may be associated with difficulties in specific aspects of parent‐reported executive functions and behaviour problems in mid‐childhood.
Females with dystrophinopathy: A neglected patient population
Authors: Politano Luisa
Published: February 2023

This commentary is on the original article by Houwen‐van Opstal et al. on pages 1093–1104 of this issue.
Papillary muscle ventricular ectopy ablation in a malignant mitral valve prolapse
Authors: Conti Sergio , Sabatino Francesco , Caserta Carlo , Sgarito Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

Patients with mitral valve prolapse (MVP) have a heterogeneous clinical spectrum, ranging from benign to severe clinical presentations such as sudden cardiac death (SCD). Some of the markers of “arrhythmic MVP” include inverted/biphasic T‐waves, QT prolongation, and polymorphic premature ventricular contractions (PVCs) originating from the left ventricular outflow tract and papillary muscles (PMs). The genesis of arrhythmias in MVP recognizes the combination of the substrate (fibrosis) and the trigger (mechanical stretch). Therefore, ablation of ventricular arrhythmias originating from PMs in a patient with MVP can be considered an adjunctive strategy to lower the arrhythmic burden and reduce the risk of ICD shocks.
The years of Monte dei Paschi's disengagement 2012–2019
Authors: Ferri Giovanni , Fiorito Luca
Published: February 2023

We review the critical phase of Economic Notes focusing on the years from 2012 to 2019 when the Journal suffered from the progressive disengagement by its founder, the Monte dei Paschi di Siena. The main reason for that gradual detachment is identified in the performance difficulties Monte was suffering from. Against the progressive fading away of the support provided by the Bank, the Journal entered a halo of the potential crisis itself. However, soon some measures were taken to allow Economic Notes to develop new and autonomous ways to project its own future. Specifically, we outline how the major changes in the structure of the Editorial Board were conducive to launching a new phase in which the Journal learned to rely more and more on low‐cost ways to gain visibility and attract quality submissions. That new strategy materialized through the widespread adoption of repeated Calls for Papers to generate the consequent Special Issues. The topics selected for the Calls for Papers were selected with a view at themes that were policy‐relevant and, whenever possible, not too far from the potential interest of Monte dei Paschi. We show that those Special Issues were functional to engineer a recovery in the Journal's performance. It was essentially owing to that resumed good health and recovered resonance that when Monte finally abandoned it Economic Notes was by and large equipped for the new venture.
The recent changes of Economic Notes, 2019–2021
Authors: Ferri Giovanni
Published: February 2023

We assess that the passage of Economic Notes' property from the founding Bank Monte dei Paschi di Siena to Wiley occurred smoothly, and behind formal discontinuities, a real continuity occurred. Over the years 2012–2019, Economic Notes had starved because the difficulties of Monte obstructed the regular flow of financial support. The survival of the Journal was achieved through editorial innovations through attractive Calls for Papers and the ensuing quality submissions to feed Special Issues. These efforts restored the good health of Economic Notes when its ownership switched, and in the final 3 years considered here (2019–2021), the Journal showed no sign of worsening performance. Thus, we may state that the lifesaver passage under Wiley's ownership was not the swan song but the Journal is still alive and well.
Economic notes: The early years, 1972–1983
Authors: Asso Pier Francesco , Ferri Giovanni
Published: February 2023

We set the stage in 1972 when the bank Monte dei Paschi di Siena founded Economic Notes as part of its manifold scheme to reach two main goals: going international and acquiring a stronger position in the public discourse on economics and finance. Then, we highlight how the new Journal aimed at achieving Monte's goals by adopting a specific editorial style. Moreover, through the turmoil of its first dozen years, Economic Notes' bold strategy attracted top international authors and testimonials, selected topical issues, knitted theory and policy, embraced pluralist and forward‐looking views, helped the University of Siena to strengthen its international connections. The Journal quickly became a landmark for domestic, European and global debates owing also to favourable contingencies. A special blessing was that, would be Nobel laureate, Bob Mundell had just settled down in a shabby villa in the outskirts of Siena where he organized the Santa Colomba Meetings. Those informal summer workshops brought a free flow of the most authoritative experts on international money and finance exactly at the time the Bretton Woods monetary order collapsed and stagflation risks emerged. That greatly favoured the editorial success of the Journal throughout the 1970s.
Spring emergence and canopy development strategies in miscanthus hybrids in Mediterranean, continental and maritime European climates
Authors: Magenau Elena , Clifton‐Brown John , Parry Catherine , Ashman Chris , Awty‐Carroll Danny , Ferrarini Andrea , Kontek Mislav , Martani Enrico , Amaducci Stefano , Davey Chris , Dolstra Oene , Jurišić Vanja , Kam Jason , Trindade Luisa M. , Lewandowski Iris , Kiesel Andreas
Published: February 2023

Due to its versatility and storability, biomass is an important resource for renewable materials and energy. Miscanthus hybrids combine high yield potential, low input demand, tolerance of certain marginal land types and several ecosystem benefits. To date, miscanthus breeding has focussed on increasing yield potential by maximising radiation interception through: (1) selection for early emergence, (2) increasing the growth rate to reach canopy closure as fast as possible, and (3) delayed flowering and senescence. The objective of this study is to compare early season re‐growth in miscanthus hybrids cultivated across Europe. Determination of differences in early canopy development on end‐of‐year yield traits is required to provide information for breeding decisions to improve future crop performance. For this purpose, a trial was planted with four miscanthus hybrids (two novel seed‐based hybrids M. sinensis × sinensis [M sin × sin] and M. sacchariflorus × sinensis [M sac × sin], a novel rhizome‐based M sac × sin and a standard Miscanthus × giganteus [M × g] clone) in the UK, Germany, Croatia and Italy, and was monitored in the third and fourth growing season. We determined differences between the hybrids in base temperature, frost sensitivity and emergence strategy. M × g and M sac × sin mainly emerged from belowground plant organs, producing fewer but thicker shoots at the beginning of the growing season but these shoots were susceptible to air frosts (determined by recording 0°C 2 m above ground surface). By contrast, M sin × sin emerged 10 days earlier, avoiding damage by late spring frosts and producing a high number of thinner shoots from aboveground shoots. Therefore, we recommend cultivating M sac × sin at locations with low risk and M sin × sin at locations with higher risk of late spring frosts. Selecting miscanthus hybrids that produce shoots throughout the vegetation period is an effective strategy to limit the risk of late frost damage and avoid reduction in yield from a shortened growing season.
The neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio at the start of the second course during atezolizumab plus bevacizumab therapy predicts therapeutic efficacy in patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma: A multicenter analysis
Authors: Matoya Sho , Suzuki Takanori , Matsuura Kentaro , Suzuki Yuta , Okumura Fumihiro , Nagura Yoshihito , Sobue Satoshi , Kuroyanagi Keita , Kusakabe Atsunori , Koguchi Hiroki , Hasegawa Izumi , Miyaki Tomokatsu , Tanaka Yoshito , Kondo Hiromu , Kimura Yoshihide , Ozasa Atsushi , Kawamura Hayato , Kuno Kayoko , Fujiwara Kei , Nojiri Shunsuke , Kataoka Hiromi ,   Sakurayama Liver Study Group (SLSG)
Published: February 2023

Aim

Atezolizumab plus bevacizumab (Atez/Bev) therapy is expected to have good therapeutic efficacy for patients with advanced hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). However, the clinical indicators that predict therapeutic efficacy have not been established. We retrospectively investigated whether the neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio (NLR) during Atez/Bev therapy could predict therapeutic efficacy.

Method

In total, 110 patients with HCC were enrolled; they were treated with Atez/Bev therapy and evaluated for their initial response by dynamic CT or MRI at least once between October 2020 and July 2022.

Results

Of the 110 patients with HCC at the initial evaluation, two (2%) showed a complete response (CR), 22 (20%) partial response (PR), 62 (56%) stable disease (SD), and 24 (21%) progressive disease (PD). The NLR at the start of the second course (NLR‐2c) increased from CR + PR to SD to PD. There was no significant association between the baseline NLR and the initial therapeutic response. Patients with CR + PR had lower NLR‐2c values than those with SD + PD (p < 0.001) and the optimal cut‐off value of NLR‐2c was 1.97. Patients with NLR‐2c <1.97 had better overall survival and progression‐free survival (PFS) than those with NLR‐2c ≥1.97 (p = 0.005 for overall survival; p < 0.001 for PFS). A multivariate analysis showed that female sex, higher PIVKA‐II levels at baseline, and higher values of NLR‐2c were significantly associated with poorer PFS.

Conclusions

The NLR‐2c value predicts the initial therapeutic response and prognosis of patients with HCC treated with Atez/Bev therapy.
The elephant in the room: Exploring the influence and participation of patients in infection‐related care across surgical pathways in South Africa and India
Authors: Nampoothiri Vrinda , Mbamalu Oluchi , Surendran Surya , Bonaconsa Candice , Pennel Timothy , Boutall Adam , Gopal Kirun , Castro Sanchez Enrique , Dhar Puneet , Holmes Alison , Singh Sanjeev , Mendelson Marc , Tarrant Carolyn , Charani Esmita ,   ASPIRES Co‐Investigators
Published: February 2023

Objective

The irrational use of antibiotics is a leading contributor to antibiotic resistance. Antibiotic stewardship (AS) interventions predominantly focus on prescribers. This study investigated the influence and participation of inpatients in infection‐related care, including antibiotic decision‐making, within and across two tertiary hospitals in South Africa (Cape Town) and India (Kerala).

Methods

Through ethnographic enquiry of clinical practice in surgical pathways, including direct nonparticipant observation of clinical practices, healthcare worker (HCW), patient and carer interactions in surgical ward rounds and face‐to‐face interviews with participants (HCWs and patients), we sought to capture the implicit and explicit influence that patients and carers have in infection‐related care. Field notes and interview transcripts were thematically coded, aided by NVivo 12® Pro software.

Results

Whilst observational data revealed the nuanced roles that patients/carers play in antibiotic decision‐making, HCWs did not recognize these roles. Patients and carers, though invested in patient care, are not routinely involved, nor are they aware of the opportunities for engagement in infection‐related decision‐making. Patients associated clinical improvement with antibiotic use and did not consider hospitalization to be associated with infection acquisition or transmission, highlighting a lack of understanding of the threat of infection and antibiotic resistance. Patients' economic and cultural positionalities may influence their infection‐related behaviours. In the study site in India, cultural norms mean that carers play widespread but unrecognized roles in inpatient care, participating in infection prevention activities.

Conclusion

For patients to have a valuable role in AS and make informed decisions regarding their infection‐related care, a mutual understanding of their role in this process among HCWs and patients is crucial. The observed differences between the two study sites indicate the critical need for understanding and addressing the contextual drivers that impact effective patient‐centred healthcare delivery.

Patient or Public Contribution

Ethnographic observations and interviews conducted in this study involved patients as participants. Patients were recruited for interviews after obtaining signed informed consent forms. Patients' identities were completely anonymized when presenting the study findings.
Root filled teeth in two parallel Danish cohorts: A repeated longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Razdan Ankur , Schropp Lars , Væth Michael , Kirkevang Lise‐Lotte
Published: February 2023

Aim

The aim of the study was to compare the frequency of root filled teeth and quality of root fillings (RFs) in two parallel, Danish cohorts each examined over 10 years and to evaluate factors associated with apical periodontitis (AP) and extraction of root filled teeth.

Methodology

Two randomly selected cohorts (C1, C2) from Aarhus (age: 20–64 years) were followed for approximately 10 years, with full‐mouth radiographic surveys performed at 5‐year intervals (C1: 1997–2003–2008; C2: 2009–2014–2019). Frequency of root filled teeth, quality of RFs and coronal restorations, periapical status and tooth extraction were registered. Logistic regression analyses compared C1 with C2 for baseline and follow‐up periods and assessed variables associated with AP (PAI‐based) and extraction of root filled teeth.

Results

C1 included 330 and C2, 170 individuals, mean age 42.9 and 47.3 years, respectively, who attended all three radiographic examinations. The relative frequency of root filled teeth was lower in C2 than C1 at baseline (C1: 4.7%, C2: 3.6%; p < .001) and after 10 years (C1: 5.7%, C2: 4.2%; p < .001). The relative frequency of new RFs was lower in C2 than in C1 (p = .02). C2 had fewer short/long RFs at baseline than C1; quality of new RFs or coronal restorations was similar in C1 and C2. The risk of tooth extraction (p = .93) and risk of AP (p = .37) at 10‐year follow‐up was similar between the two cohorts. For both C1 and C2, root filled teeth with AP at baseline had increased risk of having AP (p < .001) or having been extracted (p < .001) at follow‐up. Risk of extraction was higher for root filled premolars (p = .01) and molars (p = .01) than anteriors. Risk of AP at follow‐up was higher for root filled molars (p < .001). Furthermore, inadequate quality of RFs (p = .02) and coronal restorations (p = .04) increased the risk of AP at follow‐up in C1 and C2.

Conclusions

The frequency of root filled teeth and new RFs decreased and little to no change in new RFs' quality, AP, or tooth extraction was seen over time (1997–2019). Root filled molars and teeth with AP at baseline had increased risk of AP and extraction.
High moisture extrusion of meat analogues using mung bean (Vigna radiata L.) protein and flour blends: investigations on morphology, texture and rheology
Authors: Seetapan Nispa , Raksa Phatchareeya , Limparyoon Nattawut , Srirajan Supakorn , Makmoon Thidarat , Israkarn Kamolwan , Gamonpilas Chaiwut , Methacanon Pawadee , Fuongfuchat Asira
Published: February 2023

High moisture meat analogues (HMMA) from the blends of mung bean protein isolate (MPI) and mung bean flour (MF) at different MF contents (10%, 20% and 30%) were prepared using high moisture extrusion (HME) and die texturisation. Pure MPI could not be extruded and texturised. Therefore, MF was added to improve the extrudability and to assist in the texturisation of HMMA. Rheological analysis performed under a range of simulated conditions in the cooling die demonstrated the decrease in both storage and loss moduli of the blend systems as compared to pure MPI, which explained the flow capability and extrudability of the blends during die texturisation. The effect of blend compositions on morphology and texture of the extrudates was investigated. All blend extrudates showed an anisotropic layer structure with a less pronounced velocity profile with increasing MF content. The microstructure of these extrudates revealed the presence of a multiphase system of the remaining MF fragments dispersed in a continuous protein matrix, thereby facilitating phase separation, loosening the protein structure and decreasing textural properties of HMMA as MF content increased. The results demonstrate that the blend of MPI and MF is a promising ingredient to prepare mung bean‐based HMMA with the customised texture properties.
Speed and navigation control of thymocyte development by the fetal T‐cell gene regulatory network
Authors: MacNabb Brendan W. , Rothenberg Ellen V.
Published: February 2023

T‐cell differentiation is a tightly regulated developmental program governed by interactions between transcription factors (TFs) and chromatin landscapes and affected by signals received from the thymic stroma. This process is marked by a series of checkpoints: T‐lineage commitment, T‐cell receptor (TCR)β selection, and positive and negative selection. Dynamically changing combinations of TFs drive differentiation along the T‐lineage trajectory, through mechanisms that have been most extensively dissected in adult mouse T‐lineage cells. However, fetal T‐cell development differs from adult in ways that suggest that these TF mechanisms are not fully deterministic. The first wave of fetal T‐cell differentiation occurs during a unique developmental window during thymic morphogenesis, shows more rapid kinetics of differentiation with fewer rounds of cell division, and gives rise to unique populations of innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and invariant γδT cells that are not generated in the adult thymus. As the characteristic kinetics and progeny biases are cell‐intrinsic properties of thymic progenitors, the differences could be based on distinct TF network circuitry within the progenitors themselves. Here, we review recent single‐cell transcriptome data that illuminate the TF networks involved in T‐cell differentiation in the fetal and adult mouse thymus.
Information sharing in an e‐tailing supply chain for fresh produce with supplier encroachment
Authors: Liu Molin , Dan Bin , Guan Zili , Li Mengli
Published: February 2023

This paper considers an e‐tailing supply chain for fresh produce (E‐FSC) composed of a supplier investing in freshness‐keeping effort and an e‐retailer providing value‐added service. We study the e‐retailer's information sharing strategy with supplier encroachment. First, we discuss the supplier's encroachment strategy without or with information sharing and indicate that the e‐retailer may profit more from encroachment. Second, we explore the e‐retailer's information sharing strategy under two scenarios. Under the independent scenario, the e‐retailer may share information when the freshness sensitivity is comparatively high, which cannot affect the supplier's encroachment strategy. Under the interactive scenario, the e‐retailer influences the supplier's encroachment strategy through an information sharing strategy. The e‐retailer may share (withhold) information to induce (deter) encroachment when the competition intensity is comparatively low or high (moderate). Finally, we discuss the influence of the entry cost on E‐FSC members’ profits, which finds that increasing entry cost may improve the supplier's profit.
Rapid, nonparallel genomic evolution of Brassica rapa (field mustard) under experimental drought
Authors: Johnson Stephen E. , Tittes Silas , Franks Steven J.
Published: February 2023

While we know that climate change can potentially cause rapid phenotypic evolution, our understanding of the genetic basis and degree of genetic parallelism of rapid evolutionary responses to climate change is limited. In this study, we combined the resurrection approach with an evolve‐and‐resequence design to examine genome‐wide evolutionary changes following drought. We exposed genetically similar replicate populations of the annual plant Brassica rapa derived from a field population in southern California to four generations of experimental drought or watered conditions in a greenhouse. Genome‐wide sequencing of ancestral and descendant population pools identified hundreds of SNPs that showed evidence of rapidly evolving in response to drought. Several of these were in stress response genes, and two were identified in a prior study of drought response in this species. However, almost all genetic changes were unique among experimental populations, indicating that the evolutionary changes were largely nonparallel, despite the fact that genetically similar replicates of the same founder population had experienced controlled and consistent selection regimes. This nonparallelism of evolution at the genetic level is potentially because of polygenetic adaptation allowing for multiple different genetic routes to similar phenotypic outcomes. Our findings help to elucidate the relationship between rapid phenotypic and genomic evolution and shed light on the degree of parallelism and predictability of genomic evolution to environmental change.
Beyond radical affordability in the base of the pyramid: The role of consumer self‐confidence in product acceptance
Authors: Blocker Christopher P. , Manning Kenneth C. , Trujillo Carlos A.
Published: February 2023

When developing products and services for base of the economic pyramid (BoP) consumers, it has been widely assumed that organizations must set extremely low prices that are dependent on substantial product acceptance and economies of scale. However, such pricing is often not feasible. Growing evidence suggests that more moderate price levels are needed for organizations to viably serve the needs of low‐income consumers. However, price sensitivity is less understood in low‐income contexts. To promote the success of social enterprises through fresh insight, we reexamine the extremely low‐price BoP assumption by investigating product acceptance among low‐income consumers using two experiments in Latin America. Results reveal that a belief in one's capabilities to make effective consumption decisions, consumer self‐confidence, helps explain the acceptance of moderately‐priced products. Discussion highlights directions for stimulating acceptance of socially beneficial products in low‐income contexts.
Safety and efficacy of gene therapy with onasemnogene abeparvovec in the treatment of spinal muscular atrophy: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yang Dongling , Ruan Yiyan , Chen Yuyi
Published: February 2023

Spinal muscular atrophy (SMA) is an autosomal recessive hereditary disease which leads to progressive muscle weakness and atrophy. Our systematic review and meta‐analysis aims to explore the efficacy and safety of onasemnogene abeparvovec in SMA patients. We searched PubMed, EMBASE, Web of Science and Cochrane through April 2022. Ten reports enrolling 250 SMA patients were included. CHOP INTEND and motor‐milestone significant improvements were detected at both short‐ and long‐term follow‐up. Common adverse events included pyrexia, vomiting, thrombocytopenia and elevated aminotransferases. Thrombocytopenia (79.3%, 95%CI: 65.8~90.5) and elevated aminotransferases (71.7%, 95%CI: 62.5~80.1) were more common in SMA patients aged older than 8 months. Despite the paucity of randomized control trial data and low quality of evidence to establish the safety and efficacy of onasemnogene abeparvovec in the treatment of SMA, the data suggest that it is a valuable option for patients with this condition.
Fish value chain and the determinants of value addition decision: Empirical evidence from Bangladesh
Authors: Acharjee Debasish Chandra , Alam G M Monirul , Gosh Kamal , Haque A. B. M. Mahfuzul , Hossain Mohammad Ismail
Published: February 2023

The present study was conducted to explore the fish value chain and the determinants that influenced the fish farmer's decision, preferably in the value addition chain of Rui, Catla, Tilapia, and Pangas fish. Hence, primary data were collected from 200 fish farmers and 212 market actors from three districts of Bangladesh. The per quintal value addition by the retailers in Mymensingh and Jessore areas was the highest for Rui and the lowest for Pangas. In Dhaka, the retailer's highest per quintal value was reported for Catla. The Poisson regression analysis revealed that farmers' education, fish farming experience, and access to extension services could positively, while the farmer's age could negatively influence their value addition decisions. Developing effective extension services is vital to make an integrated and sophisticated fish market system in Bangladesh.
Telomerase as a possible key to bypass reproductive cost
Authors: Čapková Frydrychová Radmila
Published: February 2023

Three widely accepted assumptions are based on telomere research in human cells: (i) telomere length is a determinant of replicative ageing; (ii) telomerase activity in somatic cells supports the proliferative capacity of the cells and thus contributes to their regenerative potential and is a determinant of organismal lifespan; and (iii) the lack of telomerase activity acts as a tumour suppression mechanism. However, from a broader view, the link between telomere biology and cellular and organismal ageing, as well as tumour development, remains of debate, as I demonstrate with numerous examples of invertebrate and vertebrate species. Consequently, I propose a novel hypothesis that telomere biology, via somatic telomerase activity, reflects ageing rate from the perspective of species reproduction strategy.
Noninvasive age estimation for wild Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops aduncus) using speckle appearance based on quantification‐theory model I analysis
Authors: Yagi Genfu , Kogi Kazunobu , Sakai Mai
Published: February 2023

Age is an important parameter for the study of ecology and population dynamics. Current methodologies for age estimation in cetaceans generally involve invasive or postmortem techniques. They are not suitable for wild marine mammals with small populations. Our previous study shows that in Indo‐Pacific bottlenose dolphins, both the number and size of body speckles increase with age. We observed speckles of 41 known‐age individuals (28 females and 13 males) between the ages of 7 and 25 years using underwater video data. The ages of individuals were obtained from a long‐term identification survey since 1994. Here, we created an age‐estimation model using quantification theory type I analysis. The model estimated the age accurately from speckle observation (R2 = 0.77, standard deviation of 2.58 years). We clarified the age of 89 individuals (64% of 139 unknown age individuals) near Mikura Island. This is the first study to use a noninvasive age estimation method to statistically verify its accuracy and revealed the age of the majority of the population.
Interchromosomal linkage disequilibrium and linked fitness cost loci associated with selection for herbicide resistance
Authors: Gupta Sonal , Harkess Alex , Soble Anah , Van Etten Megan , Leebens‐Mack James , Baucom Regina S.
Published: February 2023

The adaptation of weeds to herbicide is both a significant problem in agriculture and a model of rapid adaptation. However, significant gaps remain in our knowledge of resistance controlled by many loci and the evolutionary factors that influence the maintenance of resistance.

Here, using herbicide‐resistant populations of the common morning glory (Ipomoea purpurea), we perform a multilevel analysis of the genome and transcriptome to uncover putative loci involved in nontarget‐site herbicide resistance (NTSR) and to examine evolutionary forces underlying the maintenance of resistance in natural populations.

We found loci involved in herbicide detoxification and stress sensing to be under selection and confirmed that detoxification is responsible for glyphosate (RoundUp) resistance using a functional assay. We identified interchromosomal linkage disequilibrium (ILD) among loci under selection reflecting either historical processes or additive effects leading to the resistance phenotype. We further identified potential fitness cost loci that were strongly linked to resistance alleles, indicating the role of genetic hitchhiking in maintaining the cost.

Overall, our work suggests that NTSR glyphosate resistance inI. purpureais conferred by multiple genes which are potentially maintained through generationsviaILD, and that the fitness cost associated with resistance in this species is likely a by‐product of genetic hitchhiking.
Save your TIRs – more to auxin than meets the eye
Authors: Ang Aaron Chun Hou , Østergaard Lars
Published: February 2023

Auxin has long been known as an important regulator of plant growth and development. Classical studies in auxin biology have uncovered a ‘canonical’ transcriptional auxin‐signalling pathway involving the TRANSPORT INHIBITOR RESPONSE1/AUXIN SIGNALING F‐BOX (TIR1/AFB) receptors. TIR1/AFB perception of auxin triggers the degradation of repressors and the derepression of auxin‐responsive genes. Nevertheless, the canonical pathway cannot account for all aspects of auxin biology, such as physiological responses that are too rapid for transcriptional regulation. This Tansley insight will explore several ‘non‐canonical’ pathways that have been described in recent years mediating fast auxin responses. We focus on the interplay between a nontranscriptional branch of TIR1/AFB signalling and a TRANSMEMBRANE KINASE1 (TMK1)‐mediated pathway in root acid growth. Other developmental aspects involving the TMKs and their association with the controversial AUXIN‐BINDING PROTEIN 1 (ABP1) will be discussed. Finally, we provide an updated overview of the ETTIN (ETT)‐mediated pathway in contexts outside of gynoecium development.