bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Update on heme biosynthesis, tissue‐specific regulation, heme transport, relation to iron metabolism and cellular energy
Authors: Belot Audrey , Puy Herve , Hamza Iqbal , Bonkovsky Herbert L.
Published: June 2024

Heme is a primordial macrocycle upon which most aerobic life on Earth depends. It is essential to the survival and health of nearly all cells, functioning as a prosthetic group for oxygen‐carrying proteins and enzymes involved in oxidation/reduction and electron transport reactions. Heme is essential for the function of numerous hemoproteins and has numerous other roles in the biochemistry of life. In mammals, heme is synthesised from glycine, succinyl‐CoA, and ferrous iron in a series of eight steps. The first and normally rate‐controlling step is catalysed by 5‐aminolevulinate synthase (ALAS), which has two forms: ALAS1 is the housekeeping form with highly variable expression, depending upon the supply of the end‐product heme, which acts to repress its activity; ALAS2 is the erythroid form, which is regulated chiefly by the adequacy of iron for erythroid haemoglobin synthesis. Abnormalities in the several enzymes of the heme synthetic pathway, most of which are inherited partial enzyme deficiencies, give rise to rare diseases called porphyrias. The existence and role of heme importers and exporters in mammals have been debated. Recent evidence established the presence of heme transporters. Such transporters are important for the transfer of heme from mitochondria, where the penultimate and ultimate steps of heme synthesis occur, and for the transfer of heme from cytoplasm to other cellular organelles. Several chaperones of heme and iron are known and important for cell health. Heme and iron, although promoters of oxidative stress and potentially toxic, are essential cofactors for cellular energy production and oxygenation.
Long‐term outcome of hepatitis delta in different regions world‐wide: Results of the Hepatitis Delta International Network
Authors: Wranke Anika , Lobato Cirley , Ceausu Emanoil , Dalekos George N. , Rizzetto Mario , Turcanu Adela , Niro Grazia A. , Keskin Onur , Gherlan George , Abbas Minaam , Ingiliz Patrick , Muche Marion , Buti Maria , Jachs Mathias , Vanwolleghem Thomas , Cornberg Markus , Abbas Zaigham , Yurdaydin Cihan , Dörge Petra , Wedemeyer Heiner ,   the Hepatitis Delta International Network
Published: June 2024

Background and Aims

Chronic hepatitis delta represents a major global health burden. Clinical features of hepatitis D virus (HDV) infection vary largely between different regions worldwide. Treatment approaches are dependent on the approval status of distinct drugs and financial resources.

Methods

The Hepatitis Delta International Network (HDIN) registry involves researchers from all continents (Wranke, Liver International 2018). We here report long‐term follow‐up data of 648 hepatitis D patients recruited by 14 centres in 11 countries. Liver‐related clinical endpoints were defined as hepatic decompensation (ascites, encephalopathy and variceal bleeding), liver transplantation, hepatocellular carcinoma or liver‐related death.

Results

Patient data were available from all continents but Africa: 22% from Eastern Mediterranean, 32% from Eastern Europe and Central Asia, 13% from Central and Southern Europe, 14% from South Asia (mainly Pakistan) and 19% from South America (mainly Brazil). The mean follow‐up was 6.4 (.6–28) years. During follow‐up, 195 patients (32%) developed a liver‐related clinical event after 3.5 (±3.3) years. Liver cirrhosis at baseline and a detectable HDV RNA test during follow‐up were associated with a worse clinical outcome in multivariate regression analysis while patients receiving interferon alfa‐based therapies developed clinical endpoints less frequently. Patients from South Asia developed endpoints earlier and had the highest mortality.

Conclusions

The HDIN registry confirms the severity of hepatitis D and provides further evidence for HDV viraemia as a main risk factor for disease progression. Hepatitis D seems to take a particularly severe course in patients born in Pakistan. There is an urgent need to extend access to antiviral therapies and to provide appropriate education about HDV infection.
Association between low maternal serum aflatoxin B1 exposure and adverse pregnancy outcomes in Mombasa, Kenya, 2017–2019: A nested matched case–control study
Authors: Osoro Eric , Awuor Abigael O. , Inwani Irene , Mugo Cyrus , Hunsperger Elizabeth , Verani Jennifer R. , Nduati Ruth , Kinuthia John , Okutoyi Lydia , Mwaengo Dufton , Maugo Brian , Otieno Nancy A. , Mirieri Harriet , Ombok Cynthia , Nyawanda Bryan , Agogo George O. , Ngere Isaac , Zitomer Nicholas C. , Rybak Michael E. , Munyua Peninah , Njenga Kariuki , Widdowson Marc‐Alain
Published: June 2024

We examined the association between serum aflatoxin B1‐lysine adduct (AFB1‐lys) levels in pregnant women and adverse pregnancy outcomes (low birthweight, miscarriage and stillbirth) through a nested matched case–control study of pregnant women enroled at ≤28 weeks' gestation in Mombasa, Kenya, from 2017 to 2019. Cases comprised women with an adverse birth outcome, defined as either delivery of a singleton infant weighing <2500 g, or a miscarriage, or a stillbirth, while controls were women who delivered a singleton live infant with a birthweight of ≥2500 g. Cases were matched to controls at a ratio of 1:2 based on maternal age at enrolment, gestational age at enrolment and study site. The primary exposure was serum AFB1‐lys. The study included 125 cases and 250 controls. The median gestation age when serum samples were collected was 23.0 weeks (interquartile range [IQR]: 18.1–26.0) and 23.5 (IQR: 18.1–26.5) among cases and controls, respectively. Of the 375 tested sera, 145 (38.7%) had detectable serum AFB1‐lys: 36.0% in cases and 40.0% in controls. AFB1‐lys adduct levels were not associated with adverse birth outcomes on multivariable analysis. Mid‐upper arm circumference was associated with a 6% lower odds of adverse birth outcome for every unit increase (p = 0.023). Two‐fifths of pregnant women had detectable levels of aflatoxin midway through pregnancy. However, we did not detect an association with adverse pregnancy outcomes, likely because of low serum AFB1‐lys levels and low power, restricting meaningful comparison. More research is needed to understand the public health risk of aflatoxin in pregnant women to unborn children.
Integrated organismal responses induced by projected levels of CO2 and temperature exposures in the early life stages of lake sturgeon
Authors: Belding Luke D. , Thorstensen Matt J. , Quijada‐Rodriguez Alex R. , Bugg William S. , Yoon Gwangseok R. , Loeppky Alison R. , Allen Garrett J. P. , Schoen Alexandra N. , Earhart Madison L. , Brandt Catherine , Ali Jennifer L. , Weihrauch Dirk , Jeffries Kenneth M. , Anderson W. Gary
Published: June 2024

Atmospheric CO2 and temperature are rising concurrently, and may have profound impacts on the transcriptional, physiological and behavioural responses of aquatic organisms. Further, spring snowmelt may cause transient increases of pCO2 in many freshwater systems. We examined the behavioural, physiological and transcriptomic responses of an ancient fish, the lake sturgeon (Acipenser fulvescens) to projected levels of warming and pCO2 during its most vulnerable period of life, the first year. Specifically, larval fish were raised in either low (16°C) or high (22°C) temperature, and/or low (1000 μatm) or high (2500 μatm) pCO2 in a crossed experimental design over approximately 8 months. Following overwintering, lake sturgeon were exposed to a transient increase in pCO2 of 10,000 μatm, simulating a spring melt based on data in freshwater systems. Transcriptional analyses revealed potential connections to otolith formation and reduced growth in fish exposed to high pCO2 and temperature in combination. Network analyses of differential gene expression revealed different biological processes among the different treatments on the edges of transcriptional networks. Na+/K+‐ATPase activity increased in fish not exposed to elevated pCO2 during development, and mRNA abundance of the β subunit was most strongly predictive of enzyme activity. Behavioural assays revealed a decrease in total activity following an acute CO2 exposure. These results demonstrate compensatory and compounding mechanisms of pCO2 and warming dependent on developmental conditions in lake sturgeon. Conserved elements of the cellular stress response across all organisms provide key information for how other freshwater organisms may respond to future climate change.
Power and place: Uncovering the politics of global medical education
Authors: Rashid Mohammed Ahmed , Grant Janet
Published: June 2024

Context

Politics is characterised by power relations, and the deployment of power is inescapably political. In an increasingly globalised and interconnected modern world, politics is shaping the field of medical education more than ever before. Global frameworks that classify peoples and places are political tools that are fundamentally shaped by hegemonic knowledge systems. Despite this, they continue to form the basis for global thinking and practices, including in medical education. Political analysis can help to expose and challenge such thinking.

Approach

To better understand impacts of globalisation in medical education, we explore the previously under‐examined political dimensions that underpin it, focusing particularly on deconstructing power relations. We situate our analysis of global medical education in political terms, including through examination of ideology, economics, market and the enduring effects of colonialism. We interrogate the construct of the Global South (GS), considering the geopolitical and historical ideas that have enabled it to be widely propagated. We go on to examine the consequences of the GS construct in medical education and consider what this tells us about how power is enacted in the field.

Conclusions

In analysing the politics of global medical education, we shed light on how power is exerted and draw attention to forces that permit and enable trends, policies and positions. Notwithstanding the emancipatory rhetoric that has been associated with the GS construct, we highlight its reductive potential and argue that it can lead to an oversimplification of power relations and vested interests. Given the growing recognition that educational approaches do not transfer well across countries and cultures, we encourage the medical education community to consider why ideas from more dominant countries continue to be imitated so routinely. In doing so, we urge them to use political lenses to recognise the influence of multiple complex and interconnected forces of global power that shape all aspects of medical education.
The human colon: Evidence for degenerative changes during aging and the physiological consequences
Authors: Baidoo Nicholas , Sanger Gareth J.
Published: June 2024

Background

The incidence of constipation increases among the elderly (>65 years), while abdominal pain decreases. Causes include changes in lifestyle (e.g., diet and reduced exercise), disease and medications affecting gastrointestinal functions. Degenerative changes may also occur within the colo‐rectum. However, most evidence is from rodents, animals with relatively high rates of metabolism and accelerated aging, with considerable variation in time course. In humans, cellular and non‐cellular changes in the aging intestine are poorly investigated.

Purpose

To examine all available studies which reported the effects of aging on cellular and tissue functions of human isolated colon, noting the region studied, sex and age of tissue donors and study size. The focus on human colon reflects the ability to access full‐thickness tissue over a wide age range, compared with other gastrointestinal regions. Details are important because of natural human variability.

We found age‐related changes within the muscle, in the enteric and nociceptor innervation, and in the submucosa. Some involve all regions of colon, but the ascending colon appears more vulnerable. Changes can be cell‐ and sublayer‐dependent. Mechanisms are unclear but may include development of “senescent‐like” and associated inflammaging, perhaps associated with increased mucosal permeability to harmful luminal contents.

In summary, reduced nociceptor innervation can explain diminished abdominal pain among the elderly. Degenerative changes within the colon wall may have little impact on symptoms and colonic functions, because of high “functional reserve,” but are likely to facilitate the development of constipation during age‐related challenges (e.g., lifestyle, disease, and medications), now operating against a reduced functional reserve.
A game‐theoretic systematics of conservation and management of spatial ecosystem services
Authors: Drechsler Martin
Published: June 2024

Since many ecosystem services involve spatial scales beyond farm size, their preservation and management in agricultural systems depend on the interaction of the landowners. For the analysis of such interactive land use a generic dynamic land‐use model is developed that considers different payoff structures in a systematic manner and relates land‐use dynamics to these payoff structures. A landowner's own payoff depends on the land use on neighboring land parcels. The landowners’ payoffs are interpreted in a game‐theoretic manner which allows for a game‐theoretic classification of the different land‐use dynamics generated by the model. The model is analyzed to determine the proportion, spatial aggregation and temporal turnover of land‐use measures. The model results are applied to a number of cases from literature in which the management of ecosystem services involves a regional scale, including pollinator conservation, pest control, and coordination incentives for the conservation of species in fragmented landscapes. Four main domains of model behavior are identified and related to the payoff structures (type of game), characterized by the proportions and temporal turnover of land‐use measures, and by whether the system has one or two stable equilibria. An important determinant of the land‐use dynamics is the spatial heterogeneity of the landowners' payoffs which. It affects the domain and the location in the domain by which the land‐use dynamics are characterized.
The role of metabolic and bariatric surgery on the obesity pandemic in Latin America: A review of current practices and future directions
Authors: Castellanos Luis D. , Anselmetti Paola , Acosta G Arnaldo J , Tomey Daniel , Araujo‐Contreras Robert , Puche Emiro , Elzein Steven , Graham Yitka , Mahawar Kamal , Marshall Skye , Abou‐Mrad Adel , Oviedo Rodolfo J.
Published: June 2024

Latin America faces a significant public health challenge due to the high prevalence of obesity and its associated diseases. Metabolic and bariatric surgery is effective and safe to treat obesity when other treatments fail; however, its implementation in Latin America remains unsatisfactory. This review explores the current status, challenges, and innovations of metabolic and bariatric surgery in Latin America. We searched peer‐reviewed journals in English and Spanish for relevant articles published between 1998 and 2023. We found that more than 20% of the Latin American population is affected by obesity. Unfortunately, only a limited number of patients have access to metabolic and bariatric surgery due to high cost, limited availability, and shortage of specialists. The review found that ongoing clinical trials are being conducted in Brazil, Mexico, Chile, and Venezuela, indicating some regional progress. However, published studies remain low in number compared with other regions. Furthermore, we summarized the clinical outcomes, risks, and perioperative assessments associated with metabolic and bariatric surgery. We discussed potential strategies to enhance the availability and affordability of this intervention. This review emphasizes the significance of metabolic and bariatric surgery in addressing the obesity pandemic, specifically for Latin America, and proposes directions for future research and innovation.
The endocrinologist gap: Managing diabetes patients in absence of a specialist
Authors: Ahmed Nabeel , Ingelmo Pablo
Published: June 2024

The treatment of pediatric patients with diabetes is frequently orchestrated within a multidisciplinary framework at tertiary, specialized institutions. In situations where emergent surgery is indicated or when a procedure is scheduled in a facility devoid of an endocrinology service, the onus of managing perioperative glycemic levels may rest with the attending anesthesiologist. The objective of this review is to furnish a comprehensive examination of the anesthetic considerations and perioperative governance of pediatric patients with diabetes. Furthermore, this paper delineates a streamlined protocol for perioperative glycemic control, tailored to both major and minor surgical interventions.
Characteristics of board‐certified pediatric dermatologists accepting Medicaid
Authors: Tessier‐Kay Madeleine , Beltrami Eric , Sinha Shivani , Feng Hao
Published: June 2024

A current shortage of pediatric dermatologists limits access to dermatologic care among the pediatric population, yet comprehensive and updated data are lacking regarding access among the pediatric Medicaid population. This cross‐sectional study characterized Medicaid acceptance among actively practicing board‐certified pediatric dermatologists in the United States and revealed that of the 352 physicians compiled, 275 (78.1%) accept Medicaid. Significant differences in Medicaid acceptance status were observed based on practice type, region of practice, practice county median household income, and density of pediatric dermatologists. While the majority of practicing board‐certified pediatric dermatologists accept Medicaid, our findings suggest that differences in access to Medicaid‐accepting pediatric dermatologists exist based on practice type, geographic location, and density of pediatric dermatologists per county.
Significant improvement of a nevus spilus‐type congenital melanocytic nevus with oral selumetinib
Authors: Berna R. , Hasbun T. , Adams D. , Moon A. T. , Treat J. R.
Published: June 2024

Giant congenital melanocytic nevi (GCMN) can be cosmetically significant and can lead to melanoma. There is no standard pharmacologic treatment for GCMN. We present the case of an 8‐year‐old female with kaposiform lymphangiomatosis caused by an NRAS mutation whose nevus spilus‐type GCMN improved on oral selumetinib.
Neonatal Sweet syndrome with associated rectovestibular fistula and review of the literature
Authors: Abdelwahab Rewan M. , Coias Jennifer L. , Tollefson Megha M.
Published: June 2024

An otherwise healthy 4‐week‐old term female of Japanese heritage presented with a 1‐week history of asymptomatic progressive, generalized skin lesions. The lesion morphology, distribution, and dermatopathology result was consistent with Sweet syndrome. The patient was found to have a congenital type H rectovestibular fistula. This case highlights the rare association of rectovestibular fistula in neonatal Sweet syndrome which has only been described in neonates of Japanese heritage.
“An Alpha Wouldn't Spare an Emotion on a Woman”: A directed qualitative analysis of dark triad outcomes in women's relationships with Red Pill men
Authors: Zapcic Ian
Published: June 2024

The Dark Triad (DT) is a set of personality traits consisting of subclinical psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism. Separately, The Red Pill (TRP) is a seduction community part of an online men's movement that advocates incorporating DT traits and behaviors in romantic or sexual relationships with women. This study investigates the potential presence of DT influences in relationships with TRP‐affiliated men as described by former romantic partners. Using a directed content analysis of six semi‐structured interviews, four thematic categories emerged: relationship development, coaxing, outward appearances, and DT‐associated Internet behaviors. TRP men consistently displayed self‐interest and willingness to use manipulation to meet their needs, portraying themselves to their partners and the world as successful while callously disregarding partners' emotions in their pursuit of sex or social desirability. Participants' experiences of TRP men's behaviors aligned with prior knowledge regarding DT‐associated romantic and sexual relationships. This research may be used to inform future research connecting DT personalities and maladaptive social groups, as well as generating prevention strategies among relationship‐based practitioners.
Pathological evaluation of the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and diabetic peripheral neuropathy
Authors: Mizukami Hiroki
Published: June 2024

Currently, there are more than 10 million patients with diabetes mellitus in Japan. Therefore, the need to explore the pathogenesis of diabetes and the complications leading to its cure is becoming increasingly urgent. Pathological examination of pancreatic tissues from patients with type 2 diabetes reveals a decrease in the volume of beta cells because of a combination of various stresses. In human type 2 diabetes, islet amyloid deposition is a unique pathological change characterized by proinflammatory macrophage (M1) infiltration into the islets. The pathological changes in the pancreas with islet amyloid were different according to clinical factors, which suggests that type 2 diabetes can be further subclassified based on islet pathology. On the other hand, diabetic peripheral neuropathy is the most frequent diabetic complication. In early diabetic peripheral neuropathy, M1 infiltration in the sciatic nerve evokes oxidative stress or attenuates retrograde axonal transport, as clearly demonstrated by in vitro live imaging. Furthermore, islet parasympathetic nerve density and beta cell volume were inversely correlated in type 2 diabetic Goto‐Kakizaki rats, suggesting that diabetic peripheral neuropathy itself may contribute to the decrease in beta cell volume. These findings suggest that the pathogenesis of diabetes mellitus and diabetic peripheral neuropathy may be interrelated.
Low‐dose aspirin, maternal cardiometabolic health, and offspring respiratory health 9 to 14 years after delivery: Findings from the EAGeR Follow‐up Study
Authors: Shaaban May , Shepelak Zachary D. , Stanford Joseph B. , Silver Robert M. , Mumford Sunni L. , Schisterman Enrique F. , Hinkle Stefanie N. , Nkoy Flory L. , Theilen Lauren , Page Jessica , Woo Jessica G. , Brown Benjamin H. , Varner Michael W. , Schliep Karen C.
Published: June 2024

Background

Accumulating evidence shows that peri‐conceptional and in‐utero exposures have lifetime health impacts for mothers and their offspring.

Objectives

We conducted a Follow‐Up Study of the Effects of Aspirin in Gestation and Reproduction (EAGeR) trial with two objectives. First, we determined if women who enrolled at the Utah site (N = 1001) of the EAGeR trial (2007–2011, N = 1228) could successfully be contacted and agree to complete an online questionnaire on their reproductive, cardio‐metabolic, and offspring respiratory health 9–14 years after original enrollment. Second, we evaluated if maternal exposure to low‐dose aspirin (LDA) during pregnancy was associated with maternal cardio‐metabolic health and offspring respiratory health.

Methods

The original EAGeR study population included women, 18–40 years of age, who had 1–2 prior pregnancy losses, and who were trying to become pregnant. At follow‐up (2020–2021), participants from the Utah cohort completed a 13‐item online questionnaire on reproductive and cardio‐metabolic health, and those who had a live birth during EAGeR additionally completed a 7‐item questionnaire on the index child's respiratory health. Primary maternal outcomes included hypertension and hypercholesterolemia; primary offspring outcomes included wheezing and asthma.

Results

Sixty‐eight percent (n = 678) of participants enrolled in the follow‐up study, with 10% and 15% reporting maternal hypertension and hypercholesterolemia, respectively; and 18% and 10% reporting offspring wheezing and asthma. We found no association between maternal LDA exposure and hypertension (risk difference [RD] −0.001, 95% confidence interval [CI] −0.05, 0.04) or hypercholesterolemia (RD −0.01, 95% CI −0.06, 0.05) at 9–14 years follow‐up. Maternal LDA exposure was not associated with offspring wheezing (RD −0.002, 95% CI −0.08, 0.08) or asthma (RD 0.13, 95% CI 0.11, 0.37) at follow‐up. Findings remained robust after considering potential confounding and selection bias.

Conclusions

We observed no association between LDA exposure during pregnancy and maternal cardiometabolic or offspring respiratory health.
Conflicting patterns of cardiovascular reactivity, self‐report, and behavior associated with social anxiety during a conversation with a close friend
Authors: Lang Jessica C. , Peters Brett J. , Tudder Ashley , Gresham Abriana M. , Zoccola Peggy M. , Allan Nicholas P.
Published: June 2024

Social anxiety (SA) is characterized by anxious symptomology and fear during social situations, but recent work suggests that SA may not necessarily be associated with negative interpersonal and intrapersonal outcomes in support contexts. The current research investigates the discrepancies between self‐perceptions, behavior, and physiological responses associated with SA in social support conversations with close friends. Specifically, we examined the associations between SA and positive and negative affect, perceptions of demands and resources, and responsiveness. Additionally, we used the biopsychosocial model of challenge and threat to understand the physiological responses associated with SA. Participants (79.9% White, 9.8% Black or African American, 10.3% Multiple races or other; 78.7% Female), totaling 172 undergraduate friend dyads, completed self‐report measures and had physiological responses recorded while they discussed a problem unrelated to the friendship. Trained coders rated responsive behaviors exhibited during the conversation. Results revealed that greater SA was associated with greater negative perceptions of social interactions (greater negative affect, fewer perceived resources, and greater perceived demands). However, cardiovascular reactivity and behavioral responses within the conversation, as well as perceptions of partners' behavior after the conversation, contrasted with these negative perceptions. Indeed, greater SA was associated with greater sympathetic arousal (indicative of greater task engagement), but not with greater challenge or threat, and SA was not associated with perceived partner responsiveness or responsive behaviors. These results add to the growing body of research that suggests people with greater SA show inconsistencies between their conscious appraisals of social situations and their physiological responses.
The duration discrimination respiratory task: A new test to measure respiratory interoceptive accuracy
Authors: Bodart Alice , Invernizzi Sandra , De Leener Mélanie , Lefebvre Laurent , Rossignol Mandy
Published: June 2024

Interoception, which refers to the perception of body's internal state, is implicated in emotional processes and psychopathological disorders. Over the last decades, different tools have been developed to measure interoceptive accuracy, or the ability to accurately perceive physiological signals. Most of these tools have focused on cardiac interoception, but respiratory interoception has been less investigated due to the more complex and less portable equipment required. In this study, we suggest a new duration discrimination respiratory (DDR) task that does not require complex equipment. Using an adaptive staircase procedure, this task aims to determine an individual's ability to detect exhalation longer than their resting reference duration. One hundred and twenty‐three healthy subjects completed the DDR task, an interoceptive task of heart rate discrimination, and filled out questionnaires on interoceptive awareness (Multidimensional Assessment of Interoceptive Awareness), alexithymia (Toronto Alexithymia Scale [TAS]), affects (Positive and Negative Affect Scale [PANAS]), and anamnestic. Results demonstrated a good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha = .93) of the DDR task. On average, subjects needed 99.22% (SD = 36.38) of their reference exhalation time in addition to reference exhalation to detect a prolonged exhalation. Higher self‐reported fitness levels, not counting during the DDR task and lower difficulty in describing feelings (TAS subscale), predicted higher respiratory discrimination duration. In conclusion, this study demonstrates the utility of the DDR task as a valid measure of interoception.
Assessing the role of tax‐benefit policies during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Evidence from the Andean region
Authors: Jara H. Xavier , Rodríguez David , Collado Diego , Torres Javier , Mideros Andrés , Montesdeoca Lourdes , Avellaneda Andrés , Chang Rodrigo , Vanegas Omar
Published: June 2024

This paper aims to assess the role of tax‐benefit policies in mitigating the effects of COVID‐19 on the distribution of household disposable income in Colombia, Ecuador, and Peru. We exploit data from phone surveys collected during the pandemic combined with tax‐benefit microsimulation techniques to nowcast the distribution of household disposable income. Our results show a sharp drop in household disposable income and a dramatic increase in poverty and inequality during the second quarter of 2020. By the end of 2020, the economy recovers but poverty and inequality remain above the pre‐pandemic levels. COVID‐related policies cushion the effect of the crisis at the bottom of the distribution, and their effect on poverty and inequality largely depends on the generosity of the benefits implemented. By contrast, automatic stabilizers mitigate the impact of the income shock at the top of the distribution due to the effect of social insurance contributions and personal income tax, whereas social assistance programs in place before the pandemic fail to act as automatic stabilizers due to their design as proxy means‐tested benefits. We validate our nowcasting estimates with actual survey data from the end of 2020 and show that our results match closely poverty and inequality indicators in all three countries.
Public discourse about autonomous regions and de facto states
Authors: O’Brochta William
Published: June 2024

Public discourse about autonomous regions and de facto ‐‐‐ or unrecognized ‐‐‐ states can influence the policies that parent states adopt to respond to these entities. I theorize that public discourse about autonomous regions will underscore commonalities with the parent state. Public discourse about de facto states will treat the state as a separate entity. I employ newspaper data as a measure of public discourse about Adjara and Abkhazia, Georgia. Using sentiment analysis and topic models, I show that public discourse about autonomous regions discusses domestic politics whereas discourse about de facto states emphasizes international relations. This analysis of public discourse offers insight into the ways in which people in parent states discuss separatist entities and how leaders may wish to steer public discourse about these regions in the future.
Combination of total glucosides of paeony, narrow‐band ultraviolet B, and oral corticosteroid mini‐pulse therapy for nonsegmental vitiligo: A retrospective study
Authors: Gui Jiachen , Li Zhimin , Zhou Bin , Li Qiang , Zhang Yue , Wang Yaojun , Chi Jiaoni , Wang Tao
Published: June 2024

Background

The total glucoside of paeony (TGP) is recognized for its immunomodulatory properties and anti‐inflammatory effects. This study evaluates the efficacy of TGP combined with oral mini‐pulse therapy (OMP) and narrow‐band ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) in treating active nonsegmental vitiligo (NSV).

Materials and methods

The combination therapy was contrasted against those from a group treated solely with OMP and NB‐UVB. Data from 62 patients undergoing TGP combination treatment and 55 without were analyzed over a 3‐month period. After 6 months, the differences in recurrence rate were investigated by follow‐up.

Results

The findings indicate that integrating TGP may yield superior outcomes compared to OMP + NB‐UVB alone. Moreover, the patient's oxidative stress makers were significantly reduced after the treatment. The majority of patients in the TGP cohort exhibited enhanced skin pigmentation over the duration. Notably, no increase in side effects or recurrence was observed in this group. Especially, patients with vitiligo on their head and neck experienced pronounced improvements.

Conclusion

The efficacy of the combination treatment group was better than that of the control group at 2 and 3 months, and there was no difference in recurrence rate and side effects, suggesting that TGP may continue to show efficacy in NSV for a longer period of time by reducing the level of oxidative stress, and is especially suitable for patients with head and neck lesions.
Low‐level laser activates Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway‐promoting hair follicle stem cell regeneration and wound healing: Upregulate the expression of key downstream gene Lef 1
Authors: BangHong Jiang , YuKun Wang , Ao Shi , Tao Sun , PeiJun Song , XuWen Li , Lin Li , ZhuYou Xiong , Li Zhang
Published: June 2024

Background

The objective of this study is to investigate the mechanism by which low‐level laser stimulation promotes the proliferation of intraepithelial hair follicle stem cells (HFSCs) in wounds. This research aims to expand the applications of laser treatment, enhance wound repair methods, and establish a theoretical and experimental foundation for achieving accelerated wound healing.

Methods

The experimental approach involved irradiating a cell model with low‐level laser to assess the proliferation of HFSCs and examine alterations in the expression of proteins related to the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway. A mouse back wound model was established to investigate the effects of low‐level laser irradiation on wound healing rate, wound microenvironment, and the proliferation of HFSCs in relation to the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway.

Results

The research findings indicate that low‐level laser light effectively activates the Wnt signaling pathway, leading to the increased accumulation of core protein β‐catenin and the upregulation of key downstream gene Lef 1. Consequently, this regulatory mechanism facilitates various downstream biological effects, including the notable promotion of HFSC proliferation and differentiation into skin appendages and epithelial tissues. As a result, the process of wound healing is significantly accelerated.

Conclusion

Low levels of laser activates the Wnt signalling pathway, promotes the regeneration of hair follicle stem cells and accelerates wound healing.
Human dermal fibroblast‐derived secretory proteins for regulating nerve restoration: A bioinformatic approach
Authors: Suh Sang Bum , Suh Ji Youn , Lee Hyeri , Cho Sung Bin
Published: June 2024

Background

Human dermal fibroblasts secrete diverse proteins that regulate wound repair and tissue regeneration.

Methods

In this study, dermal fibroblast‐conditioned medium (DFCM) proteins potentially regulating nerve restoration were bioinformatically selected among the 337 protein lists identified by quantitative liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry. Using these proteins, protein–protein interaction network analysis was conducted. In addition, the roles of DFCM proteins were reviewed according to their protein classifications.

Results

Gene Ontology protein classification categorized these 57 DFCM proteins into various classes, including protein‐binding activity modulator (N = 11), cytoskeletal protein (N = 8), extracellular matrix protein (N = 6), metabolite interconversion enzyme (N = 5), chaperone (N = 4), scaffold/adapter protein (N = 4), calcium‐binding protein (N = 3), cell adhesion molecule (N = 2), intercellular signal molecule (N = 2), protein modifying enzyme (N = 2), transfer/carrier protein (N = 2), membrane traffic protein (N = 1), translational protein (N = 1), and unclassified proteins (N = 6). Further protein–protein interaction network analysis of 57 proteins revealed significant interactions among the proteins that varied according to the settings of confidence score.

Conclusions

Our bioinformatic analysis demonstrated that DFCM contains many secretory proteins that form significant protein–protein interaction networks crucial for regulating nerve restoration. These findings underscore DFCM proteins’ critical roles in various nerve restoration stages during the wound repair process.
Pursuit of the concept of validity: A dialogue
Authors: Cozzo Cesare
Published: June 2024

This is a dialogue between Lisa and Max on Dag Prawitz's work concerning the concept of deductive validity. Lisa first explains Prawitz's criticisms of the presently prevailing non‐epistemic analyses of validity. Then Lisa describes three different ways in which Prawitz attempted to develop an epistemic concept of validity. Max asks questions for clarification, raises some objections and compares Prawitz's three approaches with other lines of thought. Two inference rules are specially discussed: disjunction introduction and ex contradictione quodlibet. Max and Lisa view Prawitz's contribution as part of a variegated, ongoing research pursuing an explication of the concept of validity, which began with the Socratic and Platonic distinction between merely persuasive arguments and good arguments and with Aristotle's definition of syllogism. Throughout the history of philosophy, logicians have aimed at clarifying a pre‐theoretic idea of good deduction and have proposed, criticized, refined, adjusted precise theoretical concepts of validity. Prawitz has criticized current views about validity, has advanced new proposals and revised them. His work is an important chapter of the long pursuit of the concept of validity.
Use of a modified SCORFAD scale to define localised reaction patterns associated with a flea burden in cats
Authors: Sampeck Bridgette , Sutherland Cameron , Canfield Michael S. , Herrin Brian H.
Published: June 2024

Background

The SCORing Feline Allergic Dermatitis scale (SCORFAD) is a validated dermatological scale assessing reaction patterns associated with allergic dermatitis in cats. While no pathognomonic reaction pattern is recognised with flea allergy dermatitis (FAD), miliary dermatitis is more common.

Hypothesis/Objective

This study aimed to document regional cutaneous reaction patterns of cats with fleas using a modified SCORFAD (mSCORFAD).

Animals

In total, 142 owned cats from West Central Florida enrolled over three study periods. To be included, each cat and household environment had five or more fleas on Day (D)0.

Materials and Methods

Cats were examined on D0, D7, D14, D21, D28, D44, D56 and D80. On D0 they were treated with an isoxazoline and treatment continued through the study. Ten body regions were assessed using mSCORFAD to give a regional score for each of four reaction patterns. These were compared using the Wilcoxon rank sum test.

Results

At D80 there was an 80% reduction in total mSCORFAD representing clinical response to ectoparasite control only. The most commonly affected region was the ventral abdomen with a mean mSCORFAD score of 1.8 (95% confidence interval = 1.5–2.1) compared with other body regions (p < 0.01). The most common reaction patterns were self‐induced alopecia on the ventral abdomen and miliary dermatitis in the cervical region (p < 0.0001).

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

The mSCORFAD suggests that self‐induced alopecia on the ventral abdomen and miliary dermatitis in the cervical region is more strongly associated with a flea burden in cats.
Review of Audience Gratification with Chinese Online Film Festivals
Authors: Yang Yening , Hayati Ahmad Ghazali Akmar , Nizam bin Sha'ri Sharil
Published: June 2024

After COVID-19, cultural activities increasingly rely on online formats to engage audiences. Against this backdrop, online film festivals have emerged as a new subject of film festival research. The proliferation of online film festivals in China during this time has sparked intense debate, with both their emergence and future development being contentious issues. Throughout this process, the will of the audience plays a pivotal role in shaping their trajectory. To ensure the smooth operation and future development of online film festivals, a profound understanding of festival audiences needs to be sought. This study focuses on the audience, aiming to explore their gratification with Chinese online film festivals through a literature review, with the hope of providing insights for future prospects in the planning of online film festivals. Through the screening of databases including CNKI, Google Scholar, and Scopus, a total of 1,352 relevant articles were retrieved. After manual screening and exclusion by researchers, 105 articles relevant to the theme of this study were identified. Based on these articles, this paper synthesizes four types of audience gratification: content gratification, process gratification, social gratification, and technology gratification. Future research is recommended to further empirically investigate the conclusions drawn from this review.
The effects of habitual resistance exercise training on cerebrovascular responses to lower body dynamic resistance exercise: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Korad Stephanie , Mündel Toby , Perry Blake G.
Published: June 2024

Dynamic resistance exercise (RE) produces sinusoidal fluctuations in blood pressure with simultaneous fluctuations in middle cerebral artery blood velocity (MCAv). Some evidence indicates that RE may alter cerebrovascular function. This study aimed to examine the effects of habitual RE training on the within‐RE cerebrovascular responses. RE‐trained (n = 15, Female = 4) and healthy untrained individuals (n = 15, Female = 12) completed four sets of 10 paced repetitions (15 repetitions per minute) of unilateral leg extension exercise at 60% of predicted 1 repetition maximum. Beat‐to‐beat blood pressure, MCAv and end‐tidal carbon dioxide were measured throughout. Zenith, nadir and zenith‐to‐nadir difference in mean arterial blood pressure (MAP) and mean MCAv (MCAvmean) for each repetition were averaged across each set. Two‐way ANOVA was used to analyse dependent variables (training × sets), Bonferroni corrected t‐tests were used for post hoc pairwise comparisons. Group age (26 ± 7 trained vs. 25 ± 6 years untrained, P = 0.683) and weight (78 ± 15 vs. 71 ± 15 kg, P = 0.683) were not different. During exercise average MAP was greater for the RE‐trained group in sets 2, 3 and 4 (e.g., set 4: 101 ± 11 vs. 92 ± 7 mmHg for RE trained and untrained, respectively, post hoc tests all P = < 0.012). Zenith MAP and zenith‐to‐nadir MAP difference demonstrated a training effect (P < 0.039). Average MCAvmean and MCAvmean zenith‐to‐nadir difference was not different between groups (interaction effect P = 0.166 and P = 0.459, respectively). Despite RE‐trained individuals demonstrating greater fluctuations in MAP during RE compared to untrained, there were no differences in MCAvmean. Regular RE may lead to vascular adaptations that stabilise MCAv during RE.
Cavitation and Pulsation Reduction for External Gear Pumps Using Novel Core-Feed Inlets and Outlets: An Integrated Experimental and Numerical Study
Authors: Sedri Farhad , Riasi Alireza , Mahdavi Nejad Alireza , Metghalchi Hameed
Published: June 2024

Fluid starvation and congestion at the meshing area of external gear pumps (EGPs) happen inevitably as an intrinsic nature of these pumps. As a result, cavitation and excessive pressure pulsation are the two significant issues suffering the pump performance at almost any pump speed. Increasing speed or differential pressure exacerbates the situation, resulting in excessive noise, vibration, and damage to the pump or the hydraulic circuit, plus a significant reduction of pump efficiency. External gear pumps have tiny decompression grooves on the bearing blocks to alleviate these issues. However, these grooves cannot handle sufficient flow to prevent pressure drop at the intake side and pressure rise at the discharge side of the meshing area. This study presents analysis of an innovative core-feed inlets/outlets which effectively reduce cavitation and excessive pressure pulsation, even at extremely high speeds, by connecting the closed volumes of fluid at the gears meshing area to the main inlet/outlet through the center of gears. A computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis was performed to study the dynamic behavior of the pump. A fully functional prototype with secondary inlets and transparent components was built to validate the flow rate calculation against the experimental data and visualize the cavitation phenomena. The numerical results were in an excellent agreement with experimental data. The results show that the new pump can operate at much higher speeds with higher efficiency than a typical gear pump.
An Analytical Adhesion Model for Elastic Contact Electrification
Authors: Xu Yang , Mulvihill Daniel M. , Wu Yue , Li Xiaobao
Published: June 2024

Contact electrification is a universal phenomenon that commonly occurs in almost every solid–solid contact pair. The tribo-charges deposited on two surfaces by contact electrification can significantly affect adhesion; however, contact electrification is often overlooked in the study of adhesive contact. Here, we develop an analytical model to investigate electroadhesion during the contact phase between two initially uncharged dielectric surfaces, namely, an elastic parabolic surface and a rigid flat. A system of nonlinear equations is derived to describe the relationship between the indentation, normal load, radius of contact area, and radius of the charged zone using the Barthel–Maugis–Dugdale model (Barthel, 1999, “Modelling the Adhesion of Spheres: When the Form of the Interaction Is Complex, Colloids. Surf., A., 149, pp. 99105.). The analytical results show good agreement with the numerical results of the full self-consistent contact model. When contact electrification leads to a higher tribo-charge density and a larger charged zone, it has a greater impact on the normal traction, interfacial gap, force-approach curves, jump-out, and dissipated energy. The analytical model developed in this study serves as the foundation for advances in rough surface electroadhesive contact and electroadhesion testing, and it sheds light on the usage of adhesive joints in ultra-high vacuum environments and outer space, where contact electrification has a significant impact.
Hydrodynamic Performance of an Inverted Trapezoidal Breakwater with Permeable Retrofit
Authors: Kumaran V. , Venkateswarlu V. , Raja Pandi R. , Nishad C. S.
Published: June 2024

The scattering of incident waves by a surface-piercing inverted trapezoidal breakwater (SPTB) encircled by retrofit is numerically examined based on the assumptions of potential flow theory. The dual boundary element method is adopted to evaluate the hydrodynamic performance of the retrofitted SPTB breakwater. The scattering coefficients (i.e., wave transmission, wave reflection, energy loss), and force coefficients acting on the inner SPTB and outer retrofit are reported against relative water depth for various input values of breakwater and incident waves. The SPTB with 10% porosity, spacing S/h=0.25, width varied within 1.5≤B/W≤2, and depth d/h=0.2 is suggested against the incident waves to secure the coastal infrastructure.