bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A person‐centered analysis of Hong Kong kindergarten teachers' emotion regulation: Profiles, characteristics and relations
Authors: Yin Hongbiao , Guo Yangyang
Published: May 2024

With a sample of 470 kindergarten teachers in Hong Kong, this study first examined these teachers' emotion regulation strategies assessed by a newly adapted scale, the Kindergarten Teacher Emotion Regulation Scale. Then, the study adopted a person‐centred approach and conducted the latent profile analysis, identifying different profiles of teachers' use of the emotion regulation strategies. It also examined the relationships between these profiles and teachers' self‐efficacy and two contextual antecedents, instructional leadership and trust in colleagues in kindergartens. The study validated a three‐dimensional measurement of kindergarten teachers' emotion regulation in Hong Kong, namely cognition‐focused regulation, (negative) emotion‐focused regulation, and behaviour‐focused regulation. Moreover, it identified four profiles of kindergarten teachers' emotion regulation strategy use with distinctive characteristics, and revealed some significant relationships between teachers' emotion regulation and self‐efficacy as well as school contexts. The findings highlight the role of beneficial school climate in eliciting teachers' effective emotion regulation and thereby enhancing their self‐efficacy.
Fast freezing inhibits melanin synthesis of melanocytes by modulating the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway
Authors: Wu Siyun , Yuan Xinyue , Tang Zexin , Zang Kai , Wang Caibing , Li Zhiyi , Li Huangde , Ye Xiyun , Dang Yongyan
Published: May 2024

Skin hyperpigmentation is mainly caused by excessive synthesis of melanin; however, there is still no safe and effective therapy for its removal. Here, we found that the dermal freezer was able to improve UVB‐induced hyperpigmentation of guinea pigs without causing obvious epidermal damage. We also mimic freezing stimulation at the cellular level by rapid freezing and observed that freezing treatments <2.5 min could not decrease cell viability or induce cell apoptosis in B16F10 and Melan‐A cells. Critically, melanin content and tyrosinase activity in two cells were greatly reduced after freezing treatments. The dramatic decrease in tyrosinase activity was associated with the downregulation of MITF, TYR, TRP‐1 and TRP‐2 protein expression in response to freezing treatments for two cells. Furthermore, our results first demonstrated that freezing treatments significantly reduced the levels of p‐GSK3β and β‐catenin and the nuclear accumulation of β‐catenin in B16F10 and Melan‐A cells. Together, these data suggest that fast freezing treatments can inhibit melanogenesis‐related gene expression in melanocytes by regulating the Wnt/β‐catenin signalling pathway. The inhibition of melanin production eventually contributed to the improvement in skin hyperpigmentation induced by UVB. Therefore, fast freezing treatments may be a new alternative of skin whitening in the clinic in the future.
Understanding marital stability through work–family experiences in proximal and distal contexts: Comparing United States and Japan
Authors: Jiao Chengfei , Grzywacz Joseph G.
Published: May 2024

Objective

Guided by Gottman's framework of marital stability and the ecological theories, the present study aims to understand the relationships between work–family spillover and marital stability within two levels of context—the relational and social cultural contexts.

Background

The relational context of marriage is manifested by spousal relationships—spousal support and strain, which would moderate the relationship between work–family spillover and marital stability. Identified relationships also unfold within sociocultural contexts.

Method

This study uses data from the Midlife in the United States 2 (MIDUS 2) and Midlife in Japan (MIDJA) projects to explore these dynamics. The current study involved 500 Japanese and 1,800 American participants who were married and employed at the time of data collection.

Results

Results from multigroup path models revealed cultural differences. The relational context—spousal support and strain—played moderating roles in the associations between work–family spillover and marital stability in both countries. However, distinct sociocultural patterns emerged as spousal strain showed a stronger association among Japanese participants, whereas spousal support was more prominent among Americans in relation to marital stability.

Conclusion

The results support Gottman's contention that positive and negative features of marriage are related to marital stability directly and indirectly by shaping the impacts of work–family spillover and sociocultural expectations of work and family.

Implications

Practitioners and organizations should recognize the role of spouses in addressing the negative effects of work–family spillover in marriage, as well as incorporating clients' or employees' cultural backgrounds when addressing marital concerns.
Digitalization of banks and inclusive finance: New insights from cultural industry's financing constraints
Authors: Yang Cunyi , Chen Li , Li Qi , Wu Junwei
Published: May 2024

The emergence of digital financial technology emerges as a promising solution, allowing banks to leverage unique digital footprints to alleviate information asymmetry and mitigate the light asset company's financing constraints. Through a theoretical analysis, we reveal that the digital transformation of banks significantly increases loan allocations to SMEs within the cultural industry. This development toward inclusive finance is further substantiated by robust empirical evidence, indicating a notable alleviation of financing constraints, and confirming the quantitative and structural transmission pathways influenced by bank digitalization.
Why do avian responses to change in Arctic green‐up vary?
Authors: Tavera Eveling A. , Lank David B. , Douglas David C. , Sandercock Brett K. , Lanctot Richard B. , Schmidt Niels M. , Reneerkens Jeroen , Ward David H. , Bêty Joël , Kwon Eunbi , Lecomte Nicolas , Gratto‐Trevor Cheri , Smith Paul A. , English Willow B. , Saalfeld Sarah T. , Brown Stephen C. , Gates H. River , Nol Erica , Liebezeit Joseph R. , McGuire Rebecca L. , McKinnon Laura , Kendall Steve , Robards Martin , Boldenow Megan , Payer David C. , Rausch Jennie , Solovyeva Diana V. , Stalwick Jordyn A. , Gurney Kirsty E. B.
Published: May 2024

Global climate change has altered the timing of seasonal events (i.e., phenology) for a diverse range of biota. Within and among species, however, the degree to which alterations in phenology match climate variability differ substantially. To better understand factors driving these differences, we evaluated variation in timing of nesting of eight Arctic‐breeding shorebird species at 18 sites over a 23‐year period. We used the Normalized Difference Vegetation Index as a proxy to determine the start of spring (SOS) growing season and quantified relationships between SOS and nest initiation dates as a measure of phenological responsiveness. Among species, we tested four life history traits (migration distance, seasonal timing of breeding, female body mass, expected female reproductive effort) as species‐level predictors of responsiveness. For one species (Semipalmated Sandpiper), we also evaluated whether responsiveness varied across sites. Although no species in our study completely tracked annual variation in SOS, phenological responses were strongest for Western Sandpipers, Pectoral Sandpipers, and Red Phalaropes. Migration distance was the strongest additional predictor of responsiveness, with longer‐distance migrant species generally tracking variation in SOS more closely than species that migrate shorter distances. Semipalmated Sandpipers are a widely distributed species, but adjustments in timing of nesting relative to variability in SOS did not vary across sites, suggesting that different breeding populations of this species were equally responsive to climate cues despite differing migration strategies. Our results unexpectedly show that long‐distance migrants are more sensitive to local environmental conditions, which may help them to adapt to ongoing changes in climate.
Value in care: The contribution of supportive care to value‐based lung cancer services—A qualitative semistructured interview study
Authors: Chung Holly , Hyatt Amelia , Webber Kate , Kosmider Suzanne , Krishnasamy Meinir
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Despite significant advances in the management of lung cancer, patients continue to experience a high burden of unmet need impacting quality of life and outcomes of care. Achieving value‐based health care, where investment is targeted to services that deliver optimal experience and outcomes of care relative to the cost of delivering that care, requires attention to what people value most in meeting their needs. To date there has been little attention to what matters most to patients with lung cancer (i.e., what they value) as a component of achieving value‐based cancer care. This qualitative study was undertaken to investigate components of care valued by people with lung cancer in Australia.

Methods

This qualitative study used semistructured interviews with 23 people with lung cancer. Participants were recruited using a purposive sampling strategy from two metropolitan tertiary public health services. Data collected included demographic characteristics and patient perspectives regarding their priority concerns and components of care identified as most valuable in meeting their needs. Demographic characteristics of participants were analysed descriptively, and qualitative data were analysed thematically using Interpretive Description.

Results

Data analysis generated three key themes: valued components of care; benefits of receiving valued care components and consequences of missed opportunities for care. The components of care valued by patients reflect the core dimensions of cancer supportive care, with particular emphasis on ongoing opportunities for consultation (screening for unmet needs) and provision of person‐centred information. The facilitation of trust between patients and their treating team, as a consequence of having these valued components evident in their care, was identified as a key characteristic of value‐based care.

Conclusions

This study has identified valued components of care described by people with lung cancer. Importantly, the care components identified have been proven to improve access to and coordination of care, and demonstrate the importance of integrating supportive care into care provision to achieve value‐based cancer care.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study was informed by perspectives of lung cancer patients who participated in semistructured interviews. We acknowledge that this contribution does not meet the criteria for patient and public involvement in research as defined by Health Expectations, but this study forms part of a larger program of cancer supportive care work being undertaken by this team, where comprehensive consumer engagement and co‐design approaches are embedded in our work.
Ways of interdisciplinary approaches to advocating for nursing home residents with dementia
Authors: Kim Dayeong , Hong Youjung , Chang Sung Ok
Published: May 2024

Aim

To explore how nursing home staff advocate for residents with dementia.

Design

Phenomenographic qualitative research.

Methods

Twenty nursing home staff from four disciplines (six nurses, four physical therapists, five social workers and five care workers) were purposively recruited from three different nursing homes. Data were collected through semi‐structured interviews conducted from February 2023 to March 2023, and the analysis followed the sequential steps of phenomenographic analysis.

Results

The analysis identified five categories of description: focusing on what happened, finding the gaps in perspectives, how to bridge for finding a common perspective, how to tailor care such that each resident receives equitable care and how to establish interdisciplinary sharing for a consistent advocative pattern. Their structural relationship was also identified as an outcome space.

Conclusion

The cyclical advocacy structure illustrated that nursing home staff engage in an ongoing process of advocacy during conflict situations as part of interdisciplinary care, emphasizing continuity of care rather than separate occurrences of care.

Implications for the Profession

This study revealed that, in advocating for residents with dementia, nursing home staff adopted an approach that fosters consistent care and proactive prevention, achieved through the formation of shared knowledge applicable uniformly across similar situations.

Impact

This study contributes significantly to the continuing education or training of interdisciplinary staff in nursing homes. The revelations of the study hold significance not only for the practical application but also for the theoretical advancement of concepts related to safeguarding the dignity, human rights and personhood of residents with dementia, with the ultimate goal of enhancing their quality of life within nursing homes.

Reporting Method

Reporting complied with the COREQ criteria for qualitative research.

Patient or Public Contribution

Nursing home directors have contributed to the validation of data analysis and interpretation.
Phylogenomic characterization of Flavobacterium psychrophilum isolates retrieved from Turkish rainbow trout farms
Authors: Saticioglu Izzet Burcin , Duman Muhammed , Ajmi Nihed , Altun Soner , Rochat Tatiana , Duchaud Eric
Published: May 2024

Flavobacterium psychrophilum, a devastating fish pathogen, is responsible for bacterial cold‐water disease (BCWD), also known as rainbow trout fry syndrome. F. psychrophilum is the main causative agent of outbreaks in rainbow trout farms, especially at early live stages. In the present study, we aimed to characterize F. psychrophilum Turkish isolates. Eighteen isolates were retrieved from BCWD outbreaks between 2014 and 2021. In vitro phenotypic characterization showed gelatin and casein hydrolysis capacities and in vitro adhesion for all isolates, whereas elastinolytic activity was present for 16 of 18 isolates. We used complete genome sequencing to infer MLST‐type, serotype and phylogenetic reconstruction. Strikingly, one strain isolated from Coruh trout (FP‐369) belongs to ST393, a previously undescribed ST, and is phylogenetically distant from the other isolates. However, all strains retrieved from rainbow trout belong to the well‐characterized clonal complex CC‐ST10, 12 of 17 were tightly connected in a single cluster. Several serotypes (Types ‐1, ‐2 and ‐3) were represented among isolates, but no correlation was observed with geographic origins. This analysis suggests a regional dissemination of an epidemic, disease‐producing bacterial population. This study provides a basis for epidemiological surveillance of isolates circulating in Turkey and phenotypic data for future molecular studies of virulence traits of this important fish pathogen.
Debt dispersion and corporate liquidity
Authors: Abotula Goutham , (DJ) Fairhurst Douglas
Published: May 2024

Cash holdings are significantly lower for firms with dispersed debt maturity, and this finding is robust to entropy balancing and allowing for the simultaneous selection of dispersion and cash holdings. The relation is strongest for firms with shorter debt maturity and firms that rely on precautionary cash, such as financially constrained firms and firms with volatile cash flows. Markets place a lower value on the cash of firms with high or increasing dispersion, and these firms retain less cash. Collectively, the evidence implies that firms can hedge rollover risk with dispersed debt maturity as an alternative to holding costly cash.
Fostering connection: A dyadic analysis of the relationships between mattering, attachment, and mental health
Authors: Ybarra Jacob A. , Seedall Ryan B.
Published: May 2024

In this study, we used data from 100 heterosexual couples in a committed, romantic relationship to better understand the relationship between perceived mattering (PM) and attachment, and to explore how PM relates to various mental health and relationship outcomes. A linear mixed‐effects model examining both actor and partner effects revealed that men reported lower PM in the relationship when their female partner was higher in attachment avoidance. In addition, higher levels of attachment avoidance or attachment anxiety were significantly associated with lower PM for both men and women. A dyadic path analysis model revealed that higher actor and partner PM was significantly associated with higher couple satisfaction and stronger constructive communication patterns for men and women. Stronger needs‐based communication was significantly associated with stronger constructive communication for men and women, as well as lower anxiety for women.
Reassessing Soviet industrialization as primitive Soviet accumulation: Social reproduction, collectivization and peasant women's revolts under Stalin
Authors: Lyubchenko Olena
Published: May 2024

This paper adopts a novel Social Reproduction feminist approach to re‐evaluate the Soviet experience of industrialization within the context of global research on primitive accumulation. I analyse the first Five‐Year Plan as a unique process of ‘primitive Soviet accumulation,’ focusing on the Zhenotdel collectivization campaign and the often‐overlooked role of Zhenotdel peasant women delegates [krestyanki delegatki]. The study explores their involvement in peasant women's revolts against collectivization, emphasizing the significance of these events for the Zhenotdel's emancipatory programme in the village. Considering class as a social relation to the conditions of life's reproduction, I demonstrate: (1) how primitive Soviet accumulation reshaped the gendered metabolic relationship between land and labour during the first Five‐Year Plan and (2) yet, the allocation of surplus into the expanded Soviet state apparatus laid the foundation for the distinctive Soviet mother–worker gender contract and social citizenship model.
The role and mechanism of engineered nanovesicles derived from hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells in the treatment of UVB‐induced skin photoaging
Authors: Jiang Zhounan , Cheng Hanxiao , Qian Xifei , Tu Jingyi , Fan Chongxiang , Pan Yirui , Lin Zhiwei , Chen Jinyang , Wang Xiangsheng , Zhang Jufang
Published: May 2024

Background

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) are effective in the treatment of skin photoaging; however, their low yield and functional decline with passage progression limit their clinical application. Cell‐derived nanovesicles (CNVs) are potential alternatives that can address the limitations of EVs derived from MSCs and are conducive to clinical transformations. Hair follicle mesenchymal stem cells (HFMSCs), a type of MSCs, have demonstrated the function of repairing skin tissues; nevertheless, the efficacy of CNVs from HFMSCs (HFMSC‐CNVs) in the treatment of skin photoaging remains unclear. Therefore, ultraviolet radiation B (UVB)‐induced photoaging nude mice and human dermal fibroblasts (HDFs) were used as experimental models to investigate the therapeutic effects of HFMSC–CNVs in photoaging models.

Methods

HFMSC–CNVs were successfully prepared using the mechanical extrusion method. UVB‐induced nude mice and HDFs were used as experimental models of photoaging. Multiple approaches, including hematoxylin–eosin and Masson staining, immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence, detection of reactive oxygen species (ROS), flow cytometry, western blotting, and other experimental methods, were combined to investigate the possible effects and mechanisms of HFMSC–CNVs in the treatment of skin photoaging.

Results

In the nude mouse model of skin photoaging, treatment with HFMSC–CNVs reduced UVB‐induced skin wrinkles (p < 0.05) and subcutaneous capillary dilation, alleviated epidermis thickening (p < 0.001), and dermal thinning (p < 0.001). Furthermore, HFMSC–CNVs upregulated proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA) expression (p < 0.05) and decreased the levels of ROS, β‐galactosidase (β‐Gal), and CD86 (p < 0.01). In vitro experiments, treatment with HFMSC–CNVs enhanced the cellular activity of UVB‐exposed HDFs (p < 0.05), and reduced ROS levels and the percentage of senescent cells (p < 0.001), and alleviated cell cycle arrest (p < 0.001). HFMSC–CNVs upregulated the expression of Collagen I (Col I), SMAD2/3, transforming growth factor beta (TGF‐β), catalase (CAT), glutathione peroxidase‐1 (GPX‐1), and superoxide dismutase‐1 (SOD‐1) (p < 0.05) and downregulated the expression of cycle suppressor protein (p53), cell cycle suppressor protein (p21), and matrix metalloproteinase 3 (MMP3) (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Conclusively, the anti‐photoaging properties of HFMSC–CNVs were confirmed both in vivo and in vitro. HFMSC–CNVs exert anti‐photoaging effects by alleviating cell cycle arrest, decreasing cellular senescence and macrophage infiltration, promoting cell proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) production, and reducing oxidative stress by increasing the activity of antioxidant enzymes.
Application of retaining the vessels around the orbicularis oculi muscle in blepharoplasty
Authors: Li Dan , Yan Han , Zhang Hengshu , Yang E , Liu Xinhao
Published: May 2024

Objective

To investigate the effect of retaining the vessels around the orbicularis oculi muscle on reducing local swelling after blepharoplasty.

Methods

A total of 309 patients undergoing blepharoplasty (total incision) were observed and randomly assigned to three groups; (A) conventional operation; (B) preservation of deep vessels; (C) preservation of anterior vessels of orbicularis oculi muscle. The groups were compared based on intraoperative blood loss, operation time, swelling, satisfaction, and complications.

Results

Among the 309 patients, 39 were lost to follow‐up. c Additionally, A had the shortest operation time, followed by C with slightly longer duration. On the 7th day, 15th day, and 1 month after surgery, both B and C demonstrated significantly lower levels of swelling compared to A. Moreover, patient satisfaction was higher in B and C than in A.

Conclusion

Retaining either superficial or deep veins of the orbicularis oculi muscle can effectively reduce short‐term postoperative swelling. However, when retaining the superficial central group of this muscle during surgery, it is crucial to strictly control the amount of surrounding tissue around vessels.
Epidemiology, linkage to care and natural history of women of childbearing age with chronic hepatitis B: A population‐based study
Authors: Kochaksaraei Golasa Samadi , Yang Fengjuan , Seow Cynthia H. , Barkema Herman W. , Coffin Carla S. , Shaheen Abdel‐Aziz
Published: May 2024

Pregnant women with chronic hepatitis B (CHB) are a priority population for hepatitis B care. Identification of HBV status prior to pregnancy would facilitate timely maternal interventions and perinatal care. In our study, we aimed to study the epidemiology of CHB among women of childbearing age (WoCBA, 18–49 years) in Alberta, Canada. We retrospectively analysed Alberta Analytics databases to study CHB epidemiology, natural history and care linkage among WoCBA in Alberta, between April 2012 and March 2021. A Poisson regression was conducted to estimate incidence of newly identified CHB cases and prevalence trends, whereas predictors of care linkage were determined using logistic regression. Age/sex‐adjusted incidence of newly identified CHB among WoCBA between 2015 and 2020 was 36.2/100,000 person/years, highest among individuals aged 30–39 years. Incidence of newly identified CHB decreased from 52.6 to 18.2/100,000 between 2015 and 2020, but prevalence increased from 131.7 to 248.6/100,000 in the same period. Newly identified CHB incident cases (n = 2124) had lower survival rates than age/sex‐matched Canadians, with a standardized mortality ratio of 5.7 (95% CI 2.6–11.0). Increasing age (years) at diagnosis (HR, 1.2; 95% CI 1.1–1.3) was independently associated with mortality. Comorbid hepatocellular carcinoma, anti‐HBV treatment and year of diagnosis were not significantly associated with mortality. Of the 1927 women with 2436 hepatitis B surface antigen‐positive pregnancies from 2012 to 2020, only 27.6% had recommended HBV assessment during pregnancy. Of those women meeting criteria for antiviral therapy to prevent mother‐to‐child transmission (MTCT), only 66.4% received treatment. Suboptimal management during pregnancy and overall lower survival rates highlight the need to address care linkage barriers in women of childbearing age living with CHB.
The politics of development in Ecuador: Accounting for plural rationalities
Authors: Garcés‐Velástegui Pablo
Published: May 2024

Recent protests and tense elections in Ecuador suggest a strong polarization regarding the development model. The diversity of vindications underscores the plurality of development notions, rendering it a wicked problem, which is characterized by the presence of multiple definitions. Employing sociocultural viability theory, four ideal‐typical and irreducible development models are found, illustrated by neoliberalism, developmentalism, multiple postdevelopmentalist alternatives among which Buen Vivir is the most representative, and a chimera. Locating the most important current political movements and parties in this cultural map allows us to make sense of Ecuador's political landscape and to point to ways to address this problem effectively and legitimately by producing clumsy development models, which seek to incorporate all worldviews.
Construction of equity in Ecuadorian higher education policy documents
Authors: Parra‐Gavilánez Lorena Fernanda
Published: May 2024

Equity is considered a key element to ensure universal access to high‐quality education and equal treatment in the higher education system. This study investigates the construction of equity in Ecuadorian higher education through two sets of policy documents—higher education and language policies, both relevant in considering the direction and structure of the higher education sector. The coherence or deficiencies in the construction of equity are important for this concept to be exercised and properly enacted. To this end, five national policy documents related to higher education were selected to be analyzed through a critical discourse analysis lens to determine whether the policy documents are framed with a limited or more expansive interpretation in relation to theoretical elements of equity. Critical discourse analysis was chosen as the main analysis tool since it permits the identification and critical examination of similarities and differences in two or more sets of documents. The study identifies autonomy, identity, and equality as prevalent elements of equity in the general laws regulating higher education and the national educational plan, whereas the language policy documents are more focused on competitiveness and aspects of globalization. In conclusion, this study highlights the importance of coherence in policy documents to achieve more equitable practices.
Healthcare interactions prior to first hospital admission with alcohol‐related liver disease
Authors: Lewis Heather , Parker Richard , Ul‐Haq Zia , Lucas Amanda , Cohen Carole , Vergis Nikhil , Thursz Mark
Published: May 2024

Background and Aims

To examine the healthcare contacts of patients in the year before an index admission to hospital with alcohol‐related liver disease (ArLD) to identify where opportunities for earlier identification of alcohol use disorders (AUD) and ArLD and intervention may occur.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study using the regional database encompassing NHS organisations across North West London (344 general practitioner [GP] practices, 4 acute hospital trusts and 2 mental health and community health trusts). Patients who had an index admission with ArLD were identified through healthcare coding and compared with a control cohort. Healthcare contacts, blood tests and AUD testing in the year preceding admission were measured.

Results

The ArLD cohort had 1494 participants with an index hospital admission with ArLD. The control cohort included 4462 participants. In the year preceding an index admission with ArLD, 91% of participants had at least one contact with primary care with an average of 2.97 (SD 2.45) contacts; 80% (n = 1199/1494) attended ED, 68% attended an outpatient clinic, and 42% (n = 628/1494) had at least one inpatient admission. Only 9% of the ArLD (137/1494) had formal testing for AUD. Abnormal bilirubin and platelets were more common in the ArLD than the control cohort 25% (138/560) and 28% (231/837), respectively, v 1% (12/1228) and 1% (20/1784).

Conclusions

Prior to an index admission with ArLD patients have numerous interactions with all healthcare settings, indicating missed opportunities for early identification and treatment.
Drug‐refractory epilepsy as presenting feature of Niemann–Pick disease
Authors: Desai Vedang , Parihar Jasmine , Elavarasi Arunmozhimaran , Das Animesh , Singh Rajesh Kumar , Vibha Deepti , Gaikwad Shailesh , Tripathi Manjari
Published: May 2024

Niemann–Pick disease type C (NPC) is a lipid storage disorder having varied neurological, psychiatric, and visceral manifestations. Twenty‐seven‐year‐old female presented to the hospital with recurrent episodes of seizures for the last one and half year. She had delayed motor and language milestones and was scholastically poor in school. On examination, vertical saccades were slow with downgaze restriction. Higher mental function examination revealed predominant impairment of frontal and temporal lobe functions. She also had intermittent oromandibular dyskinesis. Cerebrospinal fluid analysis showed nil cells with protein 28 mg/dL and glucose 54 mg/dL. MRI brain showed diffuse supratentorial cerebral atrophy with atrophy of corpus callosum and multiple subcortical and periventricular T2/FLAIR hyperintensities. A clinical suspicion of NPC was considered and genetic analysis showed homozygous mutation of the NPC‐2 gene on Exon 3. So, our case was unique in terms of drug‐refractory epilepsy was the presenting feature that led to the diagnosis of NPC.
The effects of solar radiation on daily and seasonal stem increment of canopy trees in European temperate old‐growth forests
Authors: Kašpar Jakub , Krůček Martin , Král Kamil
Published: May 2024

It is well established that solar irradiance greatly influences tree metabolism and growth through photosynthesis, but its effects acting through individual climate metrics have not yet been well quantified. Understanding these effects is crucial for assessing the impacts of climate change on forest ecosystems.

To describe the effects of solar irradiance on tree growth, we installed 110 automatic dendrometers in two old‐growth mountain forest reserves in Central Europe, performed detailed terrestrial and aerial laser scanning to obtain precise tree profiles, and used these to simulate the sum of solar irradiance received by each tree on a daily basis. Generalized linear mixed‐effect models were applied to simulate the probability of growth and the growth intensity over seven growing seasons.

Our results demonstrated various contrasting effects of solar irradiance on the growth of canopy trees. On the one hand, the highest daily growth rates corresponded with the highest solar irradiance potentials (i.e. the longest photoperiod). Intense solar irradiance significantly decreased tree growth, through an increase in the vapor pressure deficit. These effects were consistent for all species but had different magnitude.

Tree growth is the most effective on long rainy/cloudy days with low solar irradiance.
States of affairs and our connection with the good
Authors: Tucker Miles
Published: May 2024

Abstractionists claim that the only bearers of intrinsic value are abstract, necessarily existing states of affairs. I argue that abstractionism cannot succeed. Though we can model concrete goods such as lives, projects, and outcomes with abstract states, conflating models of goods with the goods themselves has surprising and unattractive consequences. I suggest that concrete states of affairs or facts are the only bearers of intrinsic value. I show how this proposal can overcome the concerns lodged against abstractionism and, in the process, reconnect us with the good.
Development of a score model to predict long‐term prognosis after community‐onset pneumonia in older patients
Authors: Takazono Takahiro , Namie Hotaka , Nagayoshi Yohsuke , Imamura Yoshifumi , Ito Yuya , Sumiyoshi Makoto , Ashizawa Nobuyuki , Yoshida Masataka , Takeda Kazuaki , Iwanaga Naoki , Ide Shotaro , Harada Yosuke , Hosogaya Naoki , Takemoto Shinnosuke , Fukuda Yuichi , Yamamoto Kazuko , Miyazaki Taiga , Sakamoto Noriho , Obase Yasushi , Sawai Toyomitsu , Higashiyama Yasuhito , Hashiguchi Kohji , Funakoshi Satoshi , Suyama Naofumi , Tanaka Hikaru , Yanagihara Katsunori , Izumikawa Koichi , Mukae Hiroshi
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective

The identification of factors associated with long‐term prognosis after community‐onset pneumonia in elderly patients should be considered when initiating advance care planning (ACP). We aimed to identify these factors and develop a prediction score model.

Methods

Patients aged 65 years and older, who were hospitalized for pneumonia at nine collaborating institutions, were included. The prognosis of patients 180 days after the completion of antimicrobial treatment for pneumonia was prospectively collected.

Results

The total number of analysable cases was 399, excluding 7 outliers and 42 cases with missing data or unknown prognosis. These cases were randomly divided in an 8:2 ratio for score development and testing. The median age was 82 years, and there were 68 (17%) deaths. A multivariate analysis showed that significant factors were performance status (PS) ≥2 (Odds ratio [OR], 11.78), hypoalbuminemia ≤2.5 g/dL (OR, 5.28) and dementia (OR, 3.15), while age and detection of antimicrobial‐resistant bacteria were not associated with prognosis. A scoring model was then developed with PS ≥2, Alb ≤2.5, and dementia providing scores of 2, 1 and 1 each, respectively, for a total of 4. The area under the curve was 0.8504, and the sensitivity and specificity were 94.6% and 61.7% at the cutoff of 2, respectively. In the test cases, the sensitivity and specificity were 91.7% and 63.1%, respectively, at a cutoff value of 2.

Conclusion

Patients meeting this score should be considered near the end of life, and the initiation of ACP practices should be considered.
Successful Application of a Hemoperfusion Machine in Separated System CRRT: Evaluating Effectiveness and Safety in Critically Ill Patients With AKI in Resource‐Limited Settings
Authors: Phongphithakchai Atthaphong , Sirisuksan Thiti , Konwai Sirihatai , Praditau‐krit Suntornwit , Boonsrirat Ussanee
Published: May 2024

Background

It is imperative to note that integrated system continuous renal replacement therapy (CRRT) necessitates a sophisticated and costly apparatus, potentially limiting its availability within resource‐limited settings. The introduction of a separated system for continuous veno‐venous hemofiltration (CVVH), characterized by uncomplicated setup procedures with a hemoperfusion machine, holds promise as a feasible alternative to CRRT for critically ill patients with acute kidney injury (AKI).

Methods

We aimed to retrospectively analyze the effectiveness and safety of separated CRRT applied from a hemoperfusion machine in critically ill patients with AKI during the January 2015 to December 2021 period. We also examine the in‐hospital mortality rate and multivariate logistic regression analysis to uncover the factors that affect mortality.

Results

We included a total of 129 critically ill patients who received separated system CRRT. The SOFA score at CRRT initiation was 12.6 ± 3.8. The fluid accumulation at the day of CRRT initiation was 3900 mL (622–8172 mL) All patients received pre‐ and postdilution CVVH. The mean prescribed CRRT dose was 22.4 ± 3.1 mL/kg/h. We found no serious complications including circuit explosion and air embolism. The in‐hospital mortality rate was 68.9%. High SOFA score and positive fluid accumulation at CRRT initiation serve as predictors of survival.

Conclusions

Separated system CRRT using a hemoperfusion machine provides a simplified system to operate and is proven to be effective and safe in real‐life practice, especially in resource‐limited areas.
Effect of international travel sanctions on global tourist arrivals
Authors: Chi Pei‐Yu , Yang Yiwen , Lin Chin‐Ho
Published: May 2024

Travel sanctions are a strategic diplomatic tool that are generally preferred by sanctioning countries to other invasive actions because they can reduce or avoid casualties and losses and achieve policy goals. The present study investigates the relationship between travel sanctions and the number of international tourist arrivals by employing a gravity model from 1995 to 2015. The empirical results reveal that imposing international travel sanctions leads to a decrease in the number of tourist arrivals. Moreover, sanctions between developed countries have more influential effects than those between developing countries.
Suicidal thoughts and behaviors among gender and sexual minorities: Adults ages 18–24 show highest rates of past month suicidal thoughts
Authors: Manges M. E. , Bryan C. , Bryan A. , Bauder C. R. , Wastler H. M.
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Sexual and gender minority (SGM) people are at increased risk for suicidal thoughts and behaviors relative to their cisgender heterosexual peers. However, most research in this area has focused on youth, limiting our understanding of suicide risk among SGM adults.

Methods

To address this gap in the literature, the present study examined suicidal thoughts and behaviors among SGM adults across different age groups using a sample of 10,620 US adults.

Results

Consistent with the literature on youth, SGM adults showed higher rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors than cisgender heterosexual adults. When examining prevalence rates across various age groups, young adults (18–24) showed greater lifetime and past month suicidal thoughts and behaviors relative to adults ages 45+. Adults ages 18–24 also showed greater past month suicidal ideation than adults ages 25–44; however, there were no group differences in lifetime suicidal thoughts and behaviors and past month suicidal behavior between adults ages 18–24 and 25–44.

Conclusions

Although suicidal thoughts and behaviors are most common among young SGM adults, other age groups do still show concerning rates of suicidal thoughts and behaviors, suggesting that this risk might extend to later years of life. Additional resources for SGM adults that are not only tailored toward youth and young adults are warranted.
Novel insights into rosacea's role in cancer risk: A Mendelian randomization approach
Authors: Luo Mao , Wei Bin
Published: May 2024

Background

Chronic inflammation has been shown to promote cancer progression. Rosacea is indeed a long‐term inflammatory skin condition and had been reported to link with increased risk for several types of malignancies, but evidence for causality is lacking.

Objectives

To systematically estimate the causal relationship between rosacea and several types of cancer, including cutaneous malignant melanoma (CMM), cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (cSCC), basal cell carcinoma (BCC), actinic keratosis (AK), thyroid cancer, breast cancer, glioma and hepatic cancer, as well as explore the potential underlying pathogenesis.

Methods

We conducted a bidirectional two‐sample Mendelian randomization study to probe the potential causal relationships between rosacea and several types of cancer. Instrumental variables were established using genome‐wide significant single nucleotide polymorphisms associated with rosacea and cancers. The assessment of causality was carried out through multiple methods, and the robustness of the results was evaluated via sensitivity analyses.

Results

There was no significant indication of causal effects of rosacea on CMM (pivw = 0.71), cSCC (pivw = 0.45), BCC (pivw = 0.90), AK (pivw = 0.73), thyroid cancer (pivw = 0.59), glioma (pivw = 0.15), and hepatic cancer (pivw = 0.07), but the genetic risk of rosacea was associated with an increased susceptibility to human epidermal growth factor receptor (HER)‐negative malignant neoplasm of breast (odds ratio [OR], 1.10; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.02–1.18; pivw = 0.01). TANK (TRAF family member associated nuclear factor kappa B (NFKB) activator) was identified as a common protective gene for both rosacea (OR, 0.90; 95% CI, 0.82–0.99; pivw = 0.048) and HER‐negative malignant neoplasm of the breast (OR, 0.86; 95% CI, 0.75–0.98; pivw = 0.032), which was primarily enriched in the negative regulation of NF‐κB signal transduction and may contribute to the genetic links between rosacea and this subtype of breast cancer.

Conclusions

Our findings provide suggestive evidence for causal links between rosacea and HER‐negative malignant neoplasm of the breast risk.
Successful definitive radiation treatment of refractory canine oral papillomatosis
Authors: Szczepanek Anett , Bertran Judith , Shiomitsu Keijiro , Thorsen Lily , Gutti Jishnu Rao , Santoro Domenico , Takada Marilia
Published: May 2024

This case report describes a three‐year‐old male intact border collie diagnosed with canine papillomavirus type 1 (CPV‐1+) oral papillomas resistant to standard‐of‐care. With time, he developed lesions consistent with squamous cell carcinoma. Malignant tumors were incompletely excised and treated with definitive external beam radiation therapy (45 Gy, 3 Gy × 15 daily). The remaining oral cavity received 27 Gy (1.8 Gy x 15 daily) to treat the disseminated oral papillomatosis. A temporary treatment delay of 2 weeks was instituted due to grade 3 mucositis. The patient remained in complete remission after 10 months from radiotherapy. No tumor recurrences were noted by the owners after >1 year from treatment.
Awareness of Factors Contributing to Sustainable Construction in Nigeria
Authors: Amuda-Yusuf Ganiyu , Abdulraheem Maimuna Orire , Raheem Wasiyu Mayowa , Adebiyi Ranti Taibat , Idris Soliu , Eluwa Stephen Eyinaya
Published: May 2024

The need to slow down climate change and global warming has made sustainable development major issue among policy makers and world leaders. Awareness on sustainability concept among industry practitioners is crucial in influencing design, materials selection and construction methods. The aim of this study is to examine the level of awareness on key sustainability concepts and factors that influence their adoption during construction by practitioners in Nigeria. Through an online survey, 120 copies of semi-structured questionnaire were administered on built environment practitioners such as architects, engineers, quantity surveyors, and builders working in client, contracting, consulting and academia with 77% response rate. Factorial two-way ANOVA was performed to examine if there are differences in the level of awareness of factors contributing to sustainable construction among the groupings. Also, binomial logit regression analysis was adopted in predicting the factors that significantly influence adoption of sustainability concept among practitioners in construction industry. The study revealed that professionals from client organization recorded highest (3.8) mean score in terms of awareness on sustainability concept followed by those from academia (3.6), consulting (3.0) and contracting (2.2). In terms of factors that significantly influence adoption of sustainability concept during construction, findings from the study revealed that academic qualification (β =2.226, p<0.05) and type of organization (β =1.127, p<0.05) significantly influence adoption of sustainability concept during construction. Practitioners with high academic qualification and those from client organization, exhibited high level of awareness on sustainability concept, this equally influenced their adoption of key elements of sustainability (site planning, energy efficiency, water efficiency, renewable energy, resource conservation, material reuse, indoor environmental quality) during construction. The determination of the level of awareness and adoption of factors contributing to sustainable construction by practitioners will serve as guide to industry practitioners regarding issues to integrate into design and construction project from inception to completion. To improve awareness of sustainable practices in the industry, stakeholders should direct efforts towards organizing seminars, conferences and workshops centered on sustainable construction through the various professional bodies at state and local government levels.
COVID-19 Pandemic: The New Normal in Business Continuity Plan for Real Estate Firms in Malaysia
Authors: Mohmad Lehan Nur Fadzlina Aini , Razak Khamarrul Azahari , Kamarudin Khairul Hisyam
Published: May 2024

Coronavirus (COVID-19) whipped in the new decade of 2020, throwing the healthcare industry and associated professionals into turmoil in the face of an unprecedented global crisis. The consequences of the pandemic affect almost all market sectors worldwide. The rapid spread of the pandemic put whole nations in lockdown mode to stop the contagion which at the same time affected numerous businesses including those in real estate sector. Combination of Business Continuity Plan (BCP) and Real Estate were discussed decades ago under the Business Continuity Management (BCM) canopy but the current pandemic has opened up a so called ‘new normal’ routine for such combination. Ambiguous dynamics, especially on the flattening of the pandemic curve, have disrupted companies across the globe. Linkages inherent to business environment in respect to domestic and international supply chains have created huge impact on the continuity of its operations in particular, and its contribution to the economic development at the macro level. This paper aims to provide some thoughts on how the supply chain in Business Impact Analysis (BIA) which is one of the key factors of BCP could help real estate firms in managing daily tasks during circumstances of crisis. That apart, with BIA, it would contribute to better BCP allowing for long term sustainability of the businesses. The COVID-19 pandemic has challenged researchers to think, introduce and execute vigorous approaches on business survival, to ensure the continuity of their operations. The appropriate steps in BIA will contribute to a better BCP for most real estate firms, especially in Malaysia. Hopefully, this paper can give some insights for academicians, but more importantly as well, for business operators within the real estate sector to assist in adjusting their firms in line with the ‘new normal’ brought about by COVID-19.