bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Addressing labour exploitation in the data science pipeline: views of precarious US-based crowdworkers on adversarial and co-operative interventions
Authors: Bates Jo , Gerakopoulou Elli , Checco Alessandro
Published: May 2023

Purpose

Underlying much recent development in data science and artificial intelligence (AI) is a dependence on the labour of precarious crowdworkers via platforms such as Amazon Mechanical Turk. These platforms have been widely critiqued for their exploitative labour relations, and over recent years, there have been various efforts by academic researchers to develop interventions aimed at improving labour conditions. The aim of this paper is to explore US-based crowdworkers’ views on two proposed interventions: a browser plugin that detects automated quality control “Gold Question” (GQ) checks and a proposal for a crowdworker co-operative.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors interviewed 20 US-based crowdworkers and undertook a thematic analysis of collected data.

Findings

The findings indicate that US-based crowdworkers tend to have negative and mixed feelings about the GQ detector, but were more enthusiastic about the crowdworker co-operative.

Originality/value

Drawing on theories of precarious labour, this study suggests an explanation for the findings based on US-based workers’ objective and subjective experiences of precarity. The authors argue that for US-based crowdworkers “constructive” interventions such as a crowdworker co-operative have more potential to improve labour conditions.
Decent work, capabilities and flourishing at work
Authors: Ragadu Suzette Cora , Rothmann Sebastiaan
Published: May 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the associations among decent work (DW), capabilities and the flourishing of employees in a South African context.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional survey was conducted with a convenience sample (N = 436) of early childhood development practitioners from two South African provinces. A demographic questionnaire, the Decent Work Scale, the Capability Set for Work Questionnaire and the Flourishing-at-Work Scale were administered.

Findings

Latent class analysis showed four capability sets: robust, relational, knowledge/skills and weak capability sets. Employees with a robust capability set were more inclined to report DW than those with knowledge/skills and weak capability sets. Employees with a weak capability set were significantly less inclined to report organisational values that complement family and social values than the other three capability sets. Employees with a robust capability set reported significantly higher emotional well-being (EWB), psychological well-being (PWB) and social well-being (SWB) levels than those with relational, knowledge/skills and weak capability sets. DW was significantly related to EWB, PWB and SWB.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the literature regarding DW, capabilities and flourishing of employees in a non-western, educated, industrialized, rich and democratic and non-POSH context. The study highlights the need for well-being policies that focus on DW and the capabilities of people in disadvantaged positions. These together would strengthen their agency for converting capabilities into well-being.
The Secretariat of Francis Walsingham, 1568–1590
Authors: TU HSUAN‐YING
Published: May 2023

Mid‐Elizabethan rivalry over policy and patronage split the system of state information and espionage into the collaboration of individuals. To maintain the utmost privacy, Francis Walsingham, principal secretary to Queen Elizabeth I, designed a comparatively enclosed information management and secretarial machinery that combined household space with clientage. This strategy facilitated the multiple infiltrations of clientage into the different levels of power politics, ranging from pan‐European espionage to government administration and parliament. The political involvement of clientele hence constructed the late Tudor polity out of another amalgam of bureaucratic and household elements. Using the model of Walsingham's privatised, flexible and meritocratic secretariat, this essay will examine a new style of Tudor clientage and their capture of power within the mid‐Elizabethan regime. In doing so, it explores the connection within and between clients, bureaucrats and the monarch, as well as a political controversy concerning the late Tudor polity.
Incidence and risk factors for severe postpartum haemorrhage in women with anterior low‐lying or praevia placenta and prior caesarean: Prospective population‐based study
Authors: Pinton Anne , Deneux‐Tharaux Catherine , Seco Aurélien , Sentilhes Loïc , Kayem Gilles ,   the PACCRETA Study Group
Published: May 2023

Objective

To assess the incidence and risk factors for severe postpartum haemorrhage (PPH) in women with an anterior low‐lying or praevia placenta, prior caesarean and no prenatal suspicion of placenta accreta spectrum (PAS).

Design

Population‐based study in 176 maternity units in France.

Population

All women with anterior low‐lying (0–19 mm from the cervical internal os) or praevia placenta, diagnosed prospectively before birth, prior caesarean and no prenatal suspicion of PAS.

Methods

Multivariable logistic regression to identify risk factors for severe PPH in the main population and after exclusion of women with PAS diagnosed only at birth.

Main outcome measures

Severe PPH defined by a composite criterion either estimated blood loss of ≥1500 ml, transfusion of ≥4 or more units of packed red blood cells, embolisation or surgical treatment.

Results

Of the 520 114 women constituting the source population, 230 (0.44/1000 women; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.38–0.50) met the inclusion criteria. Severe PPH rate was 24.8% (95% CI 19.2–30.4) overall, 27.5% (95% CI 21.8–33.3) in women with placenta praevia and 15.4% (95% CI 10.7–20.0) in women with low‐lying placenta. PAS was diagnosed at birth in 22 women (9.9%; 95% CI 5.8–13.4), although previously unsuspected. After their exclusion, severe PPH incidence was 17.3% (95% CI 12.4–22.2). In multivariate analysis, the only factor associated with a higher severe PPH risk was placenta previa (aOR, 3.65; 95%CI, 1.20–15.8).

Conclusion

Severe PPH is frequent among women with anterior low‐lying or praevia placenta and prior caesarean, even after exclusion of women with PAS. The risk of severe PPH for those with praevia is nearly twice that with low‐lying placenta.
The complexities of employee voice within a multiculturally diverse aged care workforce setting
Authors: Wilkinson Adrian , Ressia Susan , Mowbray Paula K
Published: May 2023

The study of employee voice has primarily focused on mainstream settings (the public sector, manufacturing and larger organisations) within Western countries, where the design of employee voice mechanisms occurs within the context of standard employees (e.g. white, Anglo‐Saxon and heterosexual persons) (Greene 2015, Finding a Voice at Work? New Perspectives on Employee Relations, 67–91). This article explores the challenges of managing voice within a residential aged care setting in Australia and seeks to understand how a multiculturally diverse workforce, characterised by culturally and linguistically diverse (CALD) individuals, interprets a range of voice mechanisms provided by management and the factors that influence their use. We present qualitative data from 21 semi‐structured interviews conducted with employees, management and key support staff. We show that managers tend to emphasise downward communication more than voice and that all workers, regardless of their cultural background, perceived barriers to speaking up. Despite general support for voice within the organisation from all stakeholders, our research shows that organisational factors such as budgetary constraints shrunk the voice agenda and created a culture in which employees feared raising issues and concerns. Furthermore, we found that cultural, language and literacy issues associated with such a workforce added a degree of complexity to employee voice and that voice could be muted due to these factors. Our research provides an opportunity to rethink the voice literature by drawing on the diversity literature in the context of multiculturally diverse workforce settings, highlighting missed opportunities for inclusive voice practices.
Spider bite envenomation on Reunion Island
Authors: Cazanove Gregory , Rollard Christine , Le Roux Gaël , Maillot Adrien
Published: May 2023

Spiders are the most abundant group of predators within the Earths ecosystems. On Reunion Island, there are up to 200 known species of spiders. However, the description of the envenomation by the bites of some local spiders have never performed. The objective of this study was to describe the representation of the health risks associated to the six spider species present on the island. The following species were described within the local arachnofauna: Latrodectus geometricus C. L. Koch, 1841 (Theridiidae), Steatoda grossa (C. L. Koch, 1838) (Theridiidae), Loxosceles rufescens (Dufour, 1820) (Sicariidae), Cheiracanthium insulare (Vinson, 1863) (Cheiracanthiidae), Cheiracanthium africanum Lessert, 1921 (Cheiracanthiidae) and Heteropoda venatoria (Linnaeus, 1767) (Sparasidae). This study constituted a first approach to the pathologies encountered by local venomous spider bites. To date, no recorded cases of envenomation linked to these species have been made so far. Some of the species or close species were documented in international literature as responsible for envenomation cases, however, future research should be taken in order to better inform and prepare healthcare professionals within the Reunion Island hospital services to deal with patients with spider bite cases.
Development of a screening method for the determination of carotenoids in ham sausage, juice, and cookies by an improved Bligh–Dyer method and LC–MS/MS
Authors: Li Shuang , Zhang Shun , Meng Yanan , Ran Zhaoshou , Cai Ting
Published: May 2023

A screening method of 23 carotenoids in foods, such as ham sausage, juice, and cookies, was proposed using an improved Bligh–Dyer method that can satisfy the extraction requirements of common carotenoids with different physicochemical properties, including free and esterified carotenoids, by collecting the aqueous and organic phases simultaneously. Purification was then performed by loading the aqueous phase onto a hydrophile–lipophile balance (HLB) column; a methanol–water solution was used for washing, and the organic phases and additional chloroform were used for elution. By optimizing this step, interference from hydrophilic compounds and neutral triglycerides was effectively eliminated, and the matrix suppression effect after purification was greater than −16.3%. Finally, the extract was analyzed by ultrahigh performance liquid chromatography–quadrupole–orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry. The results showed that the 23 carotenoids showed a good linear relationship in the range of 0.01–0.2 µg/mL, and the limits of quantification (signal‐to‐noise ratio ≥10) were from 0.02 to 0.05 mg/kg. The average recoveries were 80.1%–98.7%, with relative standard deviation ≤10%. The proposed method can simultaneously identify and quantify 23 carotenoids in foods with high throughput, sensitivity, and reliability.
Young donor hematopoietic stem cells revitalize aged or damaged bone marrow niche by transdifferentiating into functional niche cells
Authors: Yuan Na , Wei Wen , Ji Li , Qian Jiawei , Jin Zhicong , Liu Hong , Xu Li , Li Lei , Zhao Chen , Gao Xueqin , He Yulong , Wang Mingyuan , Tang Longhai , Fang Yixuan , Wang Jianrong
Published: May 2023

The bone marrow niche maintains hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) homeostasis and declines in function in the physiologically aging population and in patients with hematological malignancies. A fundamental question is now whether and how HSCs are able to renew or repair their niche. Here, we show that disabling HSCs based on disrupting autophagy accelerated niche aging in mice, whereas transplantation of young, but not aged or impaired, donor HSCs normalized niche cell populations and restored niche factors in host mice carrying an artificially harassed niche and in physiologically aged host mice, as well as in leukemia patients. Mechanistically, HSCs, identified using a donor lineage fluorescence‐tracing system, transdifferentiate in an autophagy‐dependent manner into functional niche cells in the host that include mesenchymal stromal cells and endothelial cells, previously regarded as “nonhematopoietic” sources. Our findings thus identify young donor HSCs as a primary parental source of the niche, thereby suggesting a clinical solution to revitalizing aged or damaged bone marrow hematopoietic niche.
Considerations on the use of different comparators in pharmacovigilance: A methodological review
Authors: Gravel Christopher A. , Douros Antonios
Published: May 2023

Pharmacovigilance studies based on spontaneous reporting systems use disproportionality analysis methods to identify drug‐event combinations with higher‐than‐expected reporting. Enhanced reporting is deemed as a proxy for a detected signal and is used to generate drug safety hypotheses, which can then be tested in pharmacoepidemiologic studies or randomized controlled trials. Higher‐than‐expected reporting means that the reporting rate of a drug‐event combination of interest is disproportionately higher than the rate in a specific comparator or reference set. Currently, it is unclear which comparator is the most appropriate for use in pharmacovigilance. Moreover, it is also unclear how the selection of a comparator may affect the directionality of the various reporting and other biases. This paper reviews commonly used comparators chosen for signal detection studies (active comparator, class‐exclusion comparator, and full data reference set). We give an overview of the advantages and disadvantages of each method based on examples from the literature. We also touch upon the challenges related to the derivation of general recommendations for the selection of comparators when mining spontaneous reports for pharmacovigilance.
MYC‐induced cytidine metabolism regulates survival and drug resistance via cGas‐STING pathway in mantle cell lymphoma
Authors: Liang Jin‐Hua , Ren Yi‐Min , Du Kai‐Xin , Gao Rui , Duan Zi‐Wen , Guo Jing‐Ran , Xing Tong‐Yao , Wang Wei‐Ting , Wang Li , Wang Yan , Wang Rong , Li Jian‐Yong , Xu Wei
Published: May 2023

Lymphocyte proliferation and tumourigenesis are dependent on nucleotide synthesis to support DNA, RNA and phospholipid synthesis. Here, we identified that reprogramming of nucleotide metabolism as an important factor divides mantle cell lymphoma (MCL) into two groups with different transcriptional signalling pathways and varying prognoses. We establish a nucleotide metabolism‐related prognostic model that includes six genes with different regression coefficients, which significantly predicts prognosis for MCL patients (p < 0.0001). Of these six genes, de novo CTP synthesis pathway enzyme CTPS1 whose inhibitor (STP938) is already in clinical trials for relapsed/refractory lymphomas (NCT05463263) has the highest regression coefficient. An increase in CTPS1 expression predicts adverse overall survival and progression‐free survival with independent prognostic significance in 105 primary MCL samples and GEO database (GSE93291). CRISPR CTPS1 knockout causes DNA damage and proliferation defects in MCL. Additionally, MYC positively regulates CTPS1 expression, and TP53‐aberrant and ibrutinib‐resistant MCL cells also rely on cytidine metabolism. Furthermore, besides the obvious decreased CTP pool caused by CTPS1 deficiency, CTPS1 inhibition may also induce immune‐related responses via activating dsDNA‐cGAS‐STING pathway, which plays a crucial role in impeding tumour growth in MCL patients.
Obliquity‐driven mountain permafrost‐related fluvial magnetic susceptibility cycles in the Quaternary mid‐latitude long‐term (2.5 Ma) fluvial Maros Fan in the Pannonian Basin
Authors: Püspöki Zoltán , Gibbard Philip L. , Kiss László Ferenc , McIntosh Richard W. , Thamó‐Bozsó Edit , Krassay Zita , Szappanos Bálint , Maigut Vera , Kovács Péter , Karácsony Dominik , Stercel Ferenc , Visnovitz Ferenc , Demény Krisztina , Bereczki László , Szőcs Teodóra , Rotár‐Szalkai Ágnes , Fancsik Tamás
Published: May 2023

Magnetic susceptibility (MS) of the Quaternary long‐term mid‐latitude Maros fluvial fan (Pannonian Basin) was recorded to understand the stratigraphical features of source‐proximal fluvial depositional settings. Three fully cored 500‐m‐deep boreholes were sampled at 0.5‐m intervals; low‐field and frequency dependent MS were measured, and complementary hysteresis and SEM‐EDAX investigations were performed on selected samples. Logged susceptibility data were also used to log correlations established by a simultaneous comparison of wireline log and laboratory measurements. Time‐series analyses of the susceptibility records reveal a ~41‐ka and ~100‐ka cyclicity. Towards the source‐distal sections the intensity of the ~41‐ka cycles decreases, while that of the ~100‐ka cycles remains strong. Stratigraphical and spectral similarities were observed between the Maros fluvial fan and Chinese loess records; however, based on complementary magnetic data, the magnetic phase of the Maros Fan sections is related to the detrital magnetite that originates from the catchment during early postglacial permafrost degradations. The amplification of the ~41‐ka cycles can be attributed to the very high susceptibility values in source‐proximal settings and to the special stratigraphical feature of the distributive fluvial systems. This comprises the increased avulsion frequency on the fluvial fans in ‘glacial recession periods’, in concert with the ‘early postglacial’ occurrence of the permafrost‐related magnetite originating from the catchment. As a local phenomenon, this is significant since it records the obliquity‐driven variations in permafrost development in a catchment. However, fluvial and alluvial fans are widespread depositional landforms within the Eurasian mountain range and were possibly the same during the Quaternary deglaciations. Thus, obliquity‐driven magnetic susceptibility variations in source‐proximal fan deposits attached or adjacent to regions of loess deposition should also be considered when scanning for potential source material of aeolian deposits.
Copy number gain of ACTN4 is associated with poor prognosis in patients with upper urinary tract urothelial carcinoma
Authors: Kawamura Kazuki , Miyai Kosuke , Sato Kimiya , Matsukuma Susumu , Honda Kazufumi , Ito Keiichi , Tsuda Hitoshi
Published: May 2023

α‐Actinin4 (ACTN4), an isoform of non‐muscular α‐actinin, is involved in enhancing cell motility and promoting cancer infiltration and metastasis in various cancers. However, information remains limited regarding the pathological significance of ACTN4 expression in upper urinary tract urothelial carcinomas (UUTUCs). We obtained tumor samples from 168 consecutive patients with newly diagnosed UUTUCs (92 with renal pelvic cancers and 76 with ureteral cancers), who were treated with nephroureterectomy or partial ureterectomy, and analyzed the expression of the ACTN4 protein and the amplification of ACTN4 using immunohistochemistry and fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH), respectively. The median follow‐up duration was 65 months. Among 168 cases, 49 (29%) showed ACTN4 protein overexpression and 25 (15%) showed copy number gain (≥4 copies per cell) of ACTN4. The copy number gain of ACTN4 detected using FISH significantly correlated with ACTN4 protein overexpression and several adverse clinicopathological factors, including higher pathological T stage, lymphovascular invasion, lymph node metastasis, positive surgical margin, concomitant subtype histology, and non‐papillary gross finding. Cox univariate regression analyses revealed that both copy number gain of ACTN4 and ACTN4 protein overexpression were significant risk factors for extraurothelial recurrence and death (each p < 0.0001), but multivariate analysis revealed that only copy number gain of ACTN4 was an independent risk factor for extraurothelial recurrence and death (p = 0.038 and 0.027, hazard ratio = 2.16 and 2.17, respectively). This is the first study demonstrating the aberrant expression status of ACTN4 in UUTUC and indicating its putative usefulness as a prognostic indicator in patients with UUTUC.
Does having vulnerable friends help vulnerable youth? The co‐evolution of friendships, victimization, and depressive symptoms in Chinese adolescents' social networks
Authors: Qin Xingna , Laninga‐Wijnen Lydia , Steglich Christian , Zhang Yunyun , Ren Ping , Veenstra René
Published: May 2023

This study examined whether having vulnerable friends helps or hurts victimized and depressed (i.e., vulnerable) adolescents and whether this depends on classroom supportive norms. Students (n = 1461, 46.7% girls, 93.4% Han nationality) were surveyed four times from seventh and eighth grade (Mage = 13 years) in 2015 and 2016 in Central China. Longitudinal social network analyses indicated that having vulnerable friends can both hurt and help vulnerable adolescents. Depressed adolescents with depressed friends increased in victimization over time. Victimized adolescents with victimized friends increased in victimization but decreased in depressive symptoms. These processes were most likely in classrooms with high supportive norms. Having friends and a supportive classroom may hurt vulnerable adolescents' social position but help victims' emotional development.
A rare case of cardiogenic shock caused by takotsubo syndrome associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection: The value of echocardiography in the diagnosis and monitoring of the efficacy of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation
Authors: Luo Yiran , Ye Xianwei , Zhang Lu , Yang Yang , Liang Qin
Published: May 2023

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) mainly invades the respiratory system, but may also cause various cardiovascular complications. We report a rare case of myocarditis associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection. A 61‐year‐old man was admitted to the hospital with a positive nucleic acid test for SARS‐CoV‐2. A sudden increase in troponin level (up to .144 ng/mL) was observed on the 8th day after admission. He developed symptoms of heart failure and progressed rapidly to cardiogenic shock. Echocardiography on the same day showed reduced left ventricular ejection fraction, reduced cardiac output, and segmental ventricular wall motion abnormalities. Takotsubo cardiomyopathy associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 infection was considered based on the typical echocardiography findings. We immediately started veno‐arterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VA‐ECMO) treatment. The patient was successfully withdrawn from VA‐ECMO after 8 days following recovery of ejection fraction to 65% and all indicators qualifying the withdrawal criteria. Echocardiography plays an important role in dynamic monitoring of cardiac changes in such cases and can help determine the timing of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation treatment and withdrawal.
Functional neurological disorder is common in patients attending chronic pain clinics
Authors: Mason Isabel , Renée Joanna , Marples Ivan , McWhirter Laura , Carson Alan , Stone Jon , Hoeritzauer Ingrid
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

Chronic pain is a common comorbidity in those with functional neurological disorder (FND); however, the prevalence and characteristics of FND in those with chronic pain is unknown.

Methods

A retrospective electronic records review was made of consecutive new patients attending a chronic pain clinic of a regional service. Clinical features, medication for and outcome of chronic pain, any lifetime diagnoses of functional disorders, FND, and psychiatric disorders, and undiagnosed neurological symptoms were recorded.

Results

Of 190 patients attending the chronic pain clinic, 32 (17%) had a lifetime diagnosis of FND and an additional 11 (6%) had undiagnosed neurological symptoms. Pain patients with comorbid FND were more likely to have chronic primary pain (88% with FND, 44% without FND, p < 0.0001), widespread chronic primary pain (53%, 15%, p < 0.00001), and depression (84%, 52%, p < 0.005) and less likely to have a pain‐precipitating event (19% vs. 56%, p < 0.001). However, there was no significant difference between these patients in opiate prescription, benzodiazepine prescription, or pain outcome.

Conclusions

This first study of FND in a chronic pain patient population found a remarkably high prevalence of FND (17%) and is possibly an underestimation. The size of the overlap indicates that FND and chronic pain research fields are likely to have a lot to learn from each other.
Parkinson's disease genome‐wide association study‐linked PARK16 variant is associated with a lower risk of cognitive impairment: A 4‐year observational study
Authors: Xiao Bin , Deng Xiao , Ng Ebonne Yu‐Lin , Lo Yew‐Long , Xu Zheyu , Tay Kay‐Yaw , Au Wing‐Lok , Ng Adeline , Tan Louis C. S. , Tan Eng‐King
Published: May 2023

Background and purpose

A genome‐wide association study‐linked variant (PARK16 rs6679073) modulates the risk of Parkinson's disease (PD). We postulate that there may be differences in clinical characteristics between PARK16 rs6679073 carriers and noncarriers. In a prospective study, we investigate the clinical characteristics between PARK16 rs6679073 A allele carriers and noncarriers over 4 years.

Methods

A total of 204 PD patients, comprising 158 PARK16 rs6679073 A allele carriers and 46 noncarriers, were recruited. All patients underwent motor and nonmotor symptom and cognitive assessments yearly over 4 years.

Results

PARK16 rs6679073 carriers were less likely to have mild cognitive impairment (MCI) compared to noncarriers at both baseline (48.1% vs. 67.4%, p = 0.027) and 4‐year follow‐up (29.3% vs. 58.6%, p = 0.007).

Conclusions

PD PARK16 rs6679073 carriers had significantly lower frequency of MCI in a 4‐year follow‐up study, suggesting that the variant may have a neuroprotective effect on cognitive functions.
Temporal stability of intracranial electroencephalographic abnormality maps for localizing epileptogenic tissue
Authors: Wang Yujiang , Schroeder Gabrielle M. , Horsley Jonathan J. , Panagiotopoulou Mariella , Chowdhury Fahmida A. , Diehl Beate , Duncan John S. , McEvoy Andrew W. , Miserocchi Anna , de Tisi Jane , Taylor Peter N.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Identifying abnormalities on interictal intracranial electroencephalogram (iEEG), by comparing patient data to a normative map, has shown promise for the localization of epileptogenic tissue and prediction of outcome. The approach typically uses short interictal segments of approximately 1 min. However, the temporal stability of findings has not been established.

Methods

Here, we generated a normative map of iEEG in nonpathological brain tissue from 249 patients. We computed regional band power abnormalities in a separate cohort of 39 patients for the duration of their monitoring period (.92–8.62 days of iEEG data, mean = 4.58 days per patient, >4800 hours recording). To assess the localizing value of band power abnormality, we computed —a measure of how different the surgically resected and spared tissue was in terms of band power abnormalities—over time.

Results

In each patient, the value was relatively consistent over time. The median of the entire recording period separated seizure‐free (International League Against Epilepsy [ILAE] = 1) and not‐seizure‐free (ILAE 1) patients well (area under the curve [AUC] = .69). This effect was similar interictally (AUC = .69) and peri‐ictally (AUC = .71).

Significance

Our results suggest that band power abnormality D_RS, as a predictor of outcomes from epilepsy surgery, is a relatively robust metric over time. These findings add further support for abnormality mapping of neurophysiology data during presurgical evaluation.
Recumbency decreases mare and foal survival following in‐hospital dystocia management
Authors: Roe Heather , Macpherson Margo , Denagamage Thomas , Hopper Scott , Woodie Brett , Embertson Rolf
Published: May 2023

Background

Mare and foal survival are increased with prompt dystocia management. Data regarding mortality outcomes in mares and foals, when mares are recumbent at admission for dystocia resolution, are scarce.

Objectives

To evaluate recumbency at hospital admission as a risk factor for survival of mares and foals following dystocia management. Subsequent mare fertility was also evaluated.

Study design

Retrospective cohort.

Methods

Data were obtained from medical records at Rood and Riddle Equine Hospital of mares with dystocia between 1995 and 2018. Mare signalment, ambulation status, survival data and foaling records were collected. The proportion of mare survival and mare fertility were analysed using chi‐squared tests. Foal survival was analysed using Fisher's exact test. Odds ratios were calculated using multivariable logistic regression.

Results

There were 1038 ambulatory mares and 41 recumbent mares included in the analysis. Survival rates after dystocia resolution were 90.5% (977/1079) in mares and 37.3% (402/1079) in foals. Ambulatory mares had higher odds of survival (OR 6.93, 95% CI: 3.25–14.78,p < 0.001) than recumbent mares. Foals delivered from ambulatory mares had higher odds of survival (OR 22.7, 95% CI: 3.11–165.44,p = 0.002) compared with foals delivered from recumbent mares. Fertility was not statistically different for surviving Thoroughbred mares within 3 years following dystocia resolution between ambulatory and recumbent mares.

Main limitations

Retrospective study design and small case number of recumbent mares.

Conclusions

Mare and foal survival was significantly decreased when mares with dystocia were recumbent at hospital admission. Subsequent fertility, as defined for this study, of surviving mares was not affected by ambulation status at the time of dystocia resolution.
Effect of partial NaCl replacement by KCl and calcium ascorbate on protein and lipid oxidation in bacon during storage
Authors: Ruan Jinggang , Wu Zhicheng , Kong Xiangyan , He Yuqi , Shu Lanqin , Huang Nanxi , Chen Jiaxin , Tang Jie , Zhang Dong , Li Hongjun
Published: May 2023

This study aimed to determine differences in protein and lipid oxidation between bacon with KCl and calcium ascorbate (alternative) and with NaCl (traditional) during a two‐month storage process. At the beginning of storage, the carbonyl content and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) in alternative salt bacon were higher than those in traditional bacon, while the sulphhydryl content, fluorescence intensity and the α‐helix structure of alternative salt bacon protein were lower than those of traditional bacon. As the duration of storage progressed from 0 to 60 days, the degree of oxidation of proteins and fats in both groups of bacon increased, and the degree of oxidation of alternative salt bacon was stronger than that of traditional bacon. The results indicated that alternative salts can promote physicochemical changes in bacon to some extent. The changes in the protein and lipid oxidation of the two kinds of bacon during storage may led to the production of key volatile flavour substances and taste substances, which require further investigation.
The beeswax processing by‐product: a potential antibacterial ingredient for food and nutraceutical applications
Authors: Peron Gregorio , Carmo dos Santos Nádia Alessandra , Ferrarese Irene , Rizzo Filippo , Bernabè Giulia , Paccagnella Michela , Panozzo Marina , Francescato Stefano , Castagliuolo Ignazio , Dall'Acqua Stefano , Selva Maurizio , Perosa Alvise
Published: May 2023

The purification of raw beeswax by melting produces a semi‐solid beeswax by‐product (BBR) composed by honey, resins and other constituents that is usually considered as a waste. In this article, the chemical characterisation of BBR is reported, with the aim to valorise this by‐product following the principles of the circular economy. Carbohydrates, hydrocarbons and minerals were among the main constituents. Flavonoids and phenolic acids represent 1.5% of the BBR, and their qualitative profile resembles the propolis. To assess its potential usefulness, the BBR was tested against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria of clinical interest, and results were compared with the raw propolis. Klebsiella pneumoniae and Salmonella enterica were inhibited at concentrations ≥ 0.001 mg mL−1, while Enterococcus faecalis and methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus from 0.01 mg mL−1. Only BBR was active on Pseudomonas aeruginosa. Below the concentration of 1 mg mL−1, no significant toxicity on Caco2 cells was observed. These results indicate that the BBR presents a polyphenol composition similar to propolis and a significant antibacterial activity. Thus, on the basis of these results, we suggest that the BBR can represent a sustainable alternative to propolis as food preservative or nutraceutical.
Prior SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and COVID‐19 vaccine effectiveness against outpatient illness during widespread circulation of SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant, US Flu VE network
Authors: Tartof Sara Y. , Xie Fagen , Yadav Ruchi , Wernli Karen J. , Martin Emily T. , Belongia Edward A. , Gaglani Manjusha , Zimmerman Richard K. , Talbot H. Keipp , Thornburg Natalie , Flannery Brendan ,   US Flu VE Network Investigators
Published: May 2023

Background

We estimated combined protection conferred by prior SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and COVID‐19 vaccination against COVID‐19‐associated acute respiratory illness (ARI).

Methods

During SARS‐CoV‐2 Delta (B.1.617.2) and Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant circulation between October 2021 and April 2022, prospectively enrolled adult patients with outpatient ARI had respiratory and filter paper blood specimens collected for SARS‐CoV‐2 molecular testing and serology. Dried blood spots were tested for immunoglobulin‐G antibodies against SARS‐CoV‐2 nucleocapsid (NP) and spike protein receptor binding domain antigen using a validated multiplex bead assay. Evidence of prior SARS‐CoV‐2 infection also included documented or self‐reported laboratory‐confirmed COVID‐19. We used documented COVID‐19 vaccination status to estimate vaccine effectiveness (VE) by multivariable logistic regression by prior infection status.

Results

Four hundred fifty‐five (29%) of 1577 participants tested positive for SARS‐CoV‐2 infection at enrollment; 209 (46%) case‐patients and 637 (57%) test‐negative patients were NP seropositive, had documented previous laboratory‐confirmed COVID‐19, or self‐reported prior infection. Among previously uninfected patients, three‐dose VE was 97% (95% confidence interval [CI], 60%–99%) against Delta, but not statistically significant against Omicron. Among previously infected patients, three‐dose VE was 57% (CI, 20%–76%) against Omicron; VE against Delta could not be estimated.

Conclusions

Three mRNA COVID‐19 vaccine doses provided additional protection against SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron variant‐associated illness among previously infected participants.
KRASG12C mutation‐induced TOPK overexpression contributes to tumour progression in non‐small cell lung cancer
Authors: Cai Chang , Yao Shuo , Zou Yanmei , Lu Hui , Chen Xiuqiong , Wang Yali , Zheng Kun , Zhu Feng , Wang Yihua , Xiong Hua , Zhu Junfei
Published: May 2023

KRAS mutation is the most frequent type of genetic mutation in non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC), especially in lung adenocarcinoma. However, KRAS mutation can affect many biological processes and the mechanisms underlying KRAS mutation‐mediate carcinogenesis in NSCLC have not been fully understood. In this research, we found that KRASG12C mutation was associated with the upregulation of T‐LAK cell‐originated protein kinase (TOPK), which is a well‐known serine/threonine MAPK‐like protein kinase implicated in tumorigenesis. The overexpression of TOPK significantly promoted the malignant phenotype of A549 cells, and TOPK silencing impaired the malignant phenotype with KRASG12C mutation. Moreover, we demonstrated that TOPK level was regulated by MAPK/ERK signalling and the transcription factor Elk1. TOPK was also found to promote the activation of NF‐κB signalling in A549 cells with KRASG12C mutation via facilitating the phosphorylation of TAK1. In the in vivo tumorigenesis model, the administration of TOPK inhibitor OTS514 enhanced the anticancer effect of 5‐FU, and the combinatory use of OTS514 and KRASG12C inhibitor AMG510 showed synergistic anti‐tumour effect. These results suggest that KRAS‐TOPK axis contributes to the progression of NSCLC and targeting this axis could synergize with anticancer effect of the existing chemotherapeutics.
Introducing value‐based healthcare perspectives into hospital performance assessment: A scoping review
Authors: He Wenbo , Li Meixuan , Cao Liujiao , Liu Rui , You Jiuhong , Jing Fangyuan , Zhang Jiawen , Zhang Wei , Feng Mengling
Published: May 2023

Objective

Value‐based healthcare (VBHC) puts patient outcomes at the center of the healthcare process while optimizing the use of hospital resources across multiple stakeholders. This scoping review was conducted to summarize how VBHC had been represented in theory and in practice, how it had been applied to assess hospital performance, and how well it had been ultimately implemented.

Methods

For this review, we followed the PRISMA‐ScR protocol and searched five major online databases for articles published between January 2006 and July 2022. We included original articles that used the concept of VBHC to conduct performance assessments of healthcare organizations. We extracted and analyzed key concepts and information on the dimensions of VBHC, specific strategies and methods for using VBHC in performance assessment, and the effectiveness of the assessment.

Results

We identified 48 eligible studies from 7866 articles. Nineteen nonempirical studies focused on the development of a VBHC performance assessment indicator system, and 29 empirical studies reported on the ways and points of introducing VBHC into performance assessment and its effectiveness. Ultimately, we summarized the key dimensions, processes, and effects of performance assessment after introducing VBHC.

Conclusion

Current healthcare performance assessment has begun to focus on implementing VBHC as an integrated strategy, and future work should further clarify the reliability of metrics and their association with evaluation outcomes and consider the effective integration of clinical outcomes and patient‐reported outcomes.
IRS Private Letter Rulings: Initial Evidence on Determinants and Consequences
Authors: Devos Elizabeth , Devos Erik , Farber David B. , Li He , Rahman Shofiqur
Published: May 2023

This study examines the determinants of firms' requests for Private Letter Rulings (PLRs) from the US Internal Revenue Service (IRS) and their impact on firms' cash holdings. Our results show that PLR requests tend to be made by firms with more active tax planning, more acquisitions, higher analyst following, higher leverage, and less in‐house tax expertise. We also show that firms with IRS audit red flags are less likely to request a PLR. We use a difference‐in‐difference approach to assess changes in cash holdings following PLR requests and report a decrease in cash holdings for PLR firms, consistent with the notion that PLRs act to reduce tax uncertainty. Our study provides the first empirical evidence about the determinants of PLR requests and complements prior work on tax uncertainty and cash holdings (Hanlon, Maydew and Saavedra, 2017).
High intramuscular adipose tissue content was a favorable prognostic factor in patients with advanced gastric cancer treated with nivolumab monotherapy
Authors: Tanaka Toshimitsu , Miwa Keisuke , Shimotsuura Yasutaka , Nagasu Sachiko , Shigyou Hirona , Hirota Keisuke , Koya Shunji , Akagi Yoshito , Kawaguchi Takumi
Published: May 2023

Background

Nivolumab extends the overall survival (OS) of patients with advanced gastric cancer (AGC). Intramuscular adipose tissue (IMAT) is associated with the prognosis of patients with various cancers. We investigated the effect of IMAT on OS in patients with AGC treated with nivolumab.

Methods

We enrolled patients with AGC treated with nivolumab (n = 58, 67 years old, men/women 40/18). The subjects were classified into long‐term or short‐term survival groups according to the median value. The IMAT was evaluated using computed tomography scans at the umbilical level. The decision tree algorithm was employed to reveal the profile associated with prognosis.

Results

In decision tree analysis, immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) were the first divergence variable, and prolonged survival was observed in 100% of patients with irAEs (profile 1). However, long survival was observed in 38% of patients with no irAEs. Among these patients, IMAT was identified as the second divergence variable, and long survival was observed in 63% of patients with high IMAT (profile 2). In patients with low IMAT, only 21% showed prolonged survival (profile 3). Median OS was 717 days (95% confidence interval [CI], 223 to not reached) in profile 1, 245 days (95% CI, 126 to 252) in profile 2, and 132 days (95% CI, 69 to 163) in profile 3.

Conclusion

Immune‐related adverse events and high IMAT were favorable factors for OS in patients with AGC treated with nivolumab. Thus, along with irAEs, skeletal muscle quality is important in managing patients with AGC treated with nivolumab.
Social participation and tooth loss, vision, and hearing impairments among older Brazilian adults
Authors: Bernabé Eduardo , de Oliveira Cesar , de Oliveira Duarte Yeda Aparecida , Bof de Andrade Fabiola , Sabbah Wael
Published: May 2023

Background

Vision and hearing impairments can reduce participation in social activities. Given the prominent role of the mouth in face‐to‐face interactions, this study evaluated the associations of tooth loss, vision, and hearing impairments with social participation among older adults.

Methods

This analysis included 1947 participants, aged 60+ years, who participated in three waves (2006, 2010, and 2015) of the Health, Wellbeing and Aging Study (SABE) in Brazil. Social participation was measured by the number of formal and informal social activities (requiring face‐to‐face interaction) participants were regularly involved in. Teeth were counted during clinical examinations and categorized as 0, 1–19, and 20+ teeth. Reports on vision and hearing impairments were classified into three categories (good, regular, and poor). The associations of each impairment with the 9‐year change in the social participation score were tested in negative binomial mixed‐effects models adjusting for time‐variant and time‐invariant covariates.

Results

Each impairment was associated with the baseline social participation score and the annual rate of change in the social participation score. Participants with 1–19 (incidence rate ratio: 0.96, 95% CI: 0.91–1.01) and no teeth (0.92, 95% CI: 0.87–0.97), those with regular (0.98, 95% CI: 0.95–1.01) and poor vision (0.86, 95% CI: 0.81–0.90), and those with regular (0.94, 95% CI: 0.91–0.98) and poor hearing (0.91, 95% CI: 0.87–0.95) had lower baseline social participation scores than those with 20+ teeth, good vision, and good hearing, respectively. Furthermore, participants with 1–19 (0.996, 95% CI: 0.990–1.002) and no teeth (0.994, 95% CI: 0.987–0.999), those with regular (0.996, 95% CI: 0.992–0.999) and poor vision (0.997, 95% CI: 0.991–1.003), and those with regular (0.997, 95% CI: 0.992–1.001) and poor hearing (0.995, 95% CI: 0.990–0.999) had greater annual declines in the social participation score than those with 20+ teeth, good vision and good hearing, respectively.

Conclusion

This 9‐year longitudinal study shows that tooth loss, vision, and hearing impairments are associated with reduced social participation among older adults.
Omega‐3 as an adjuvant in the treatment eating and psychological symptoms in patients with anorexia nervosa: a systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Candido Ana Claudia Rodrigues , Ferraz Sarah Dagostin , Uggioni Maria Laura Rodrigues , Zanevan Ivan Rosso , Colonetti Laura , Grande Antônio José , Colonetti Tamy , Rosa Maria Inês da
Published: May 2023

Background

This study was carried out to assess the effects of omega‐3 supplementation as an adjunct treatment for eating and psychological symptoms in patients with anorexia nervosa.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review of the literature using the terms ‘anorexia nervosa’ AND ‘Fatty Acids, Omega‐3’. Five randomised controlled trials with a total of 144 participants, published between 2003 and 2022, were included.

Results

The effects of supplementation of omega‐3 on anxiety were standardised mean difference (SMD) 0.79, 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.08 to 1.66; p = 0.08; I² = 3%; two studies, 33 participants; moderate quality of evidence. For depression, the supplementation of omega‐3 was SMD: 0.22, 95% CI: −0.50 to 0.93; p = 0.18; I² = 45%; two studies, 33 participants; moderate quality of evidence. For obsessive‐compulsive disorder, the supplementation of omega‐3 was SMD: −0.22, 95% CI: −0.70 to 2.25; p = 0.36; I² = 0%; three studies, 32 participants; low quality of evidence.

Conclusion

This research showed that regardless of dose, time or, if associated with other components, the use of omega‐3 supplementations as an adjuvant treatment showed no evidence of effect in eating and psychological symptoms in patients with anorexia nervosa.
Cell type‐specific proteomics uncovers a RAF15‐SnRK2.6/OST1 kinase cascade in guard cells
Authors: Wang Hongliang , Wang Yubei , Sang Tian , Lin Zhen , Li Rongxia , Ren Weiwei , Shen Xin , Zhao Bing , Wang Xiao , Zhang Xuebin , Zhou Shaoqun , Dai Shaojun , Hu Honghong , Song Chun‐Peng , Wang Pengcheng
Published: May 2023

Multicellular organisms such as plants contain various cell types with specialized functions. Analyzing the characteristics of each cell type reveals specific cell functions and enhances our understanding of organization and function at the organismal level. Guard cells (GCs) are specialized epidermal cells that regulate the movement of the stomata and gaseous exchange, and provide a model genetic system for analyzing cell fate, signaling, and function. Several proteomics analyses of GC are available, but these are limited in depth. Here we used enzymatic isolation and flow cytometry to enrich GC and mesophyll cell protoplasts and perform in‐depth proteomics in these two major cell types in Arabidopsis leaves. We identified approximately 3,000 proteins not previously found in the GC proteome and more than 600 proteins that may be specific to GC. The depth of our proteomics enabled us to uncover a guard cell‐specific kinase cascade whereby Raf15 and Snf1‐related kinase2.6 (SnRK2.6)/OST1(open stomata 1) mediate abscisic acid (ABA)‐induced stomatal closure. RAF15 directly phosphorylated SnRK2.6/OST1 at the conserved Ser175 residue in its activation loop and was sufficient to reactivate the inactive form of SnRK2.6/OST1. ABA‐triggered SnRK2.6/OST1 activation and stomatal closure was impaired in raf15 mutants. We also showed enrichment of enzymes and flavone metabolism in GC, and consistent, dramatic accumulation of flavone metabolites. Our study answers the long‐standing question of how ABA activates SnRK2.6/OST1 in GCs and represents a resource potentially providing further insights into the molecular basis of GC and mesophyll cell development, metabolism, structure, and function.