bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
MetaGIN: A Lightweight Framework for Molecular Property Prediction
Authors: Zhang Xuan , Chen Cheng , Wang Xiaoting , Jiang Haitao , Zhao Wei , Cui Xuefeng
Published: October 2023

Recent advancements in AI-based synthesis of small molecules have led to the creation of extensive databases, housing billions of small molecules. Given this vast scale, traditional quantum chemistry (QC) methods become inefficient for determining the chemical and physical properties of such an extensive array of molecules. As these properties are key to new drug research and development, deep learning techniques have recently been developed. Here, we present MetaGIN, a lightweight framework designed for molecular property prediction.

While traditional GNN models with 1-hop edges (i.e., covalent bonds) are sufficient for abstract graph representation, they are inadequate for capturing 3D features. Our MetaGIN model shows that including 2-hop and 3-hop edges (representing bond and torsion angles, respectively) is crucial to fully comprehend the intricacies of 3D molecules. Moreover, MetaGIN is a streamlined model with fewer than 10 million parameters, making it ideal for fine-tuning on a single GPU. It also adopts the widely acknowledged MetaFormer framework, which has consistently shown high accuracy in many computer vision tasks.

Through our experiments, MetaGIN achieves a mean absolute error (MAE) of 0.0851 with just 8.87M parameters on the PCQM4Mv2 dataset. Furthermore, MetaGIN outperforms leading techniques, showcasing superior performance across several datasets in the MoleculeNet benchmark.
Dynamic decoding of VEGF signaling and coordinated control of multiple phenotypes by the Src-TEM4-YAP pathway
Authors: Lee Sung Hoon , Kang Tae-Yun , Levchenko Andre
Published: October 2023

Responses of endothelial cells to elevated levels of Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF), frequently accompanying local decrease in oxygen supply, include loosening of cell contacts, rearrangement of cells in the process of vessel remodeling and ultimately, angiogenic growth. How these complex processes, occurring on diverse time scales, are coordinated and how they are guided by a single key signaling input, is still incompletely understood. Here we show that the various phenotypic responses associated with VEGF signaling are controlled at different steps of a pathway involving sequential activation of Src, TEM4, YAP and components of pro-angiogenic Notch signaling. Strikingly, due to feedback regulation at different pathway levels, the functional outcomes are controlled by oscillations of the pathway components occurring on distinct time scales. Deeper pathway layers integrate faster upstream responses and control progressively slower phenotypic outcomes. This signal decoding pathway organization can ensure a high degree of complexity in a vital physiological process.
Family ties: examining family functioning and alcohol use among American Indian youth
Authors: Douglass Morgan A. , Crabtree Meghan A. , Stanley Linda R. , Swaim Randall C. , Prince Mark A.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine a second-order latent variable of family functioning built from two established protective factors for American Indian (AI) youth, i.e. family cohesion and parental monitoring. This study then examines if family functioning is related to alcohol use frequency or age of initiation for AI youth. Additionally, this study examines if family functioning served as a moderator for the risk factor of peer alcohol use.

Design/methodology/approach

Data came from the 2021 Our Youth, Our Future survey. Participants were 4,373 AI adolescents from Grades 6–12 across the contiguous USA. Structural equation modeling (SEM) was used to test the latent variable of family functioning. Structural paths and interaction terms between peer use and family functioning were added to the SEM to explore direct and moderating effects.

Findings

Family cohesion and parental monitoring were best represented by a second-order latent variable of family functioning, which was related to later initiation and lower alcohol use frequency.

Practical implications

The findings regarding the initiation of alcohol use may be applicable to prevention programs, with family functioning serving as a protective factor for the initiation of alcohol use. Programs working toward alcohol prevention may be best served by focusing on family-based programs.

Originality/value

The latent variable of family functioning is appropriate for use in AI samples. Family functioning, which is an inherent resilience factor in AI communities, was shown to be protective against harmful alcohol use behaviors.
Trade unions and institutional power resources in the United Kingdom
Authors: Rigby Mike , García Calavia Miguel Angel
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The paper examines the approach of United Kingdom (UK) Trade Unions to the use of institutional power resources (IPR) in the second half of the twentieth century.

Design/methodology/approach

Using secondary material, it examines the unions' approach to IPR in three cases; collective bargaining; worker representation and trade union structure.

Findings

The paper concludes that unions did not appreciate the importance of, and lacked a strategic approach to, IPR. Although employer and government action were largely responsible for the decline of industrial relations institutions, the failure of the unions to engage with IPR contributed to this process. It explains the failure of the unions to engage with IPR by reference to their lack of strategic capabilities and skills in relation to power resources (PRs) in general and IPR in particular.

Research limitations/implications

It would have been interesting to collect primary data via interviews with union actors from the period examined to test the interpretation of secondary data contained in the article.

Practical implications

The paper has identified the kind of strategic decision-making which is necessary for unions to engage effectively with IPR. It is has also indicated the key skills which unions need to develop to be able to manage their engagement with IPR.

Social implications

The paper has implications for the role of trade unions in society, showing the need for them to develop narratives to convince society of the importance of their role and action and to develop the skills which enable them to connect with other social groups, e.g. intermediation, engagement with coalitional resources.

Originality/value

Analysis of the decline of industrial relations institutions in this period has emphasized the role of employers and the state. This paper contributes to a more balanced perspective on this decline by drawing attention to the lack of a union strategy towards IPR and the importance of the detail of the management and employment of power resources.
Lessons from the experience of adolescent migrants during the COVID-19 lockdown in Switzerland: a qualitative study
Authors: Heiniger Caroline , Suris Joan-Carles , Barrense-Dias Yara
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Three years after the COVID epidemic and the measures put in place by governments, the authors still cannot measure the full impact of them on the well-being and mental health of adolescents. This population was particularly impacted by this crisis, and some subgroups of young people, such as those from migration backgrounds, have been confronted with additional challenges. This paper aims to explore and describe the perspective and experience of migrant adolescents during the lockdown period

Design/methodology/approach

The authors performed 13 semi-structured interviews with migrant adolescents (nine females, median age 16) at the pediatric policlinic of Lausanne University Hospital in Switzerland between November 2020 and January 2021. Participants had been living in Switzerland for an average of 2.3 years. Three of them were staying in a refugee reception centre. A thematic content analysis was carried out to extract themes and topics.

Findings

Participants had difficulty understanding information about COVID-19 in general. Remote learning was described as stressful due to various factors and lockdown had an impact on their future plans, such as finding an apprenticeship. Some young people were already socially isolated, but families were generally supportive. They expressed particular concerns, such as the family’s financial situation and the difficulty of living in refugee reception centres.

Practical implications

In the event of further lockdown, special attention must be paid to these adolescents to ensure their proper development and integration. Comprehensive follow-up of this population during and after the pandemic is essential.

Originality/value

This study provides a better understanding of the pandemic experience of migrant adolescents and underlines their difficulties.
Speak up! brands’ responsiveness matters: consumer reactions to brand communications in the early stages of a crisis
Authors: Garcia-Collart Tessa
Published: October 2023

Purpose

In an effort to provide insights that nurture the future of brand relationships, this paper aims to examine the impact of brand communications on consumption behavior during critical events that significantly impact the marketplace. Specifically, this research focuses on external crises (i.e. global health crises, natural disasters and regional conflicts) beyond the control of the corporations that govern brands. It does so by exploring the most effective brand communication strategies at the onset of a crisis when brands may shift promotional content to more sensitive, crisis-related content as a means to connect with consumers. Furthermore, this paper seeks to understand which consumer segment will benefit most from brands’ crisis-related content.

Design/methodology/approach

This research introduces two empirical studies (combined sample = 490), using student and online participant samples.

Findings

Results from this work demonstrate that at the onset of a crisis, consumers’ attitudes, brand engagement, and self-brand connections significantly increase after visualizing crisis-related versus noncrisis-related brand messages. Results also reveal that consumers who feel less socially connected will react more favorably to brand communications that contain crisis-related content (i.e. informative or emotional content related to the crisis) than non-crisis-related content (i.e. marketing content aimed to promote and advertise the brand, product and/or services).

Research limitations/implications

While the effect of crisis communications on consumption behavior and the moderating effect of social connections is explored, the underlying mechanism of these effects is not investigated in this study. Therefore, future research might consider evaluating the mechanisms that drive these effects.

Practical implications

This work builds on past research to help establish that during early critical times, marketing managers should include crisis-related content in their communications, which will increase consumers’ positive reactions toward the brand.

Social implications

Another implication of this work is that it underscores the significance of crisis-related brand communications as an inclusive practice because these are particularly well-received among vulnerable consumer segments, such as those who feel less socially connected during critical times.

Originality/value

Proactive communication strategies allow brands to better manage external critical challenges. As brands navigate a postpandemic marketplace, this research highlights the adaptations that managers can make to their communication strategies at peak uncertain times, such as the earlier stages of an external crisis.
Impact of nature on the mental health and well-being of the ICU survivors: an interpretative phenomenological analysis
Authors: Kaur Supreet
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to comprehend the traumatic experiences of intensive care unit (ICU) patients during the COVID-19 pandemic and the impact of the same post-discharge. It assesses the role of nature and open green spaces on the mental health and well-being of critically ill patients.

Design/methodology/approach

Using interpretative phenomenological analysis, this study highlights the major factors contributing to adverse mental health and well-being. The subjects were interviewed using semi-structured personal interview techniques. Thematic content analysis was adapted to derive the major themes apparent in the succinctly rich information gathered from the participants.

Findings

The findings cast light on the significant role of nature and open green spaces in psychotherapeutic healing post-discharge of intensive care survivors.

Originality/value

The study is novel and adds to the existing literature in an advanced manner. To the best of the author’s knowledge, no other study was witnessed, especially in the Indian context, confirming the relationship between humans and nature with ICU patients as a subset.
Exercise decision of employee stock options: does Herding Bias influence the employees' decision?
Authors: Arora Manpreet K. , Kaur Sukhpreet
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Employee Stock Options [ESOs] have been used widely as a component of employees' compensation. To maximise the incentive effect of these options it is very important to understand the exercise decision of the employees. This is an important financial decision that is dependent on both rational and psychological factors. This paper aims to study the mediating role of Herding Bias on Personality Traits and the employees' decision to exercise ESOs.

Design/methodology/approach

The data were collected through a self-structured questionnaire from 210 employees of Banks and NBFCs [Non-Banking Financial Companies] who have received and exercised the ESOs. SPSS MACRO version 25 was used to understand the mediational effect of Herding Bias on Personality Traits and Employees' decision to exercise their ESOs.

Findings

The results showed that Personality Traits affect the employees' decision to exercise their ESOs. The study also shows a partial negative mediating effect of Herding Bias on Personality Traits and employees' decision to exercise ESOs.

Originality/value

Limited study has been conducted on how the employees make their decision to exercise ESOs. Although extant studies have touched upon the importance of including behavioural biases in ascertaining the exercise decision of the employees, the predictors of the behavioural biases have not been studied under this context. To the best of the author's knowledge, this study is the first in itself to study the inter-linkage between Personality Traits, Herding Bias and employees' decision to exercise ESOs.
Online counterfeit purchase behaviour: moderating effect of perceived anonymity and moral disengagement
Authors: Samaddar Kaushik , Mondal Sanjana , Gandhi Aradhana
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The continuous evolution of e-commerce with young consumers’ growing interest in online shopping has transformed the retail landscape across the world. With the surge in online sales, counterfeits of luxury goods have also found themselves from brick-and-mortar shelves to online e-commerce sites. Against this backdrop, this study aims to understand and analyse young consumers’ online counterfeit purchase behaviour (OCPB). Additionally, it also aims at identifying the determinants that influence their purchase decisions.

Design/methodology/approach

Following an extensive review of the literature, the present study pursued a quantitative approach in exploring critical demographic, psychographic, behavioural and situational factors influencing OCPB. The study was conducted in India through an online survey using a structured questionnaire.

Findings

The findings indicate that young consumers’ OCPB is significantly related to influencing factors like brand consciousness, fashion involvement, face consciousness, impulsive buying tendency, acquisition centrality and utilitarian shopping values. Furthermore, moderating effects of perceived anonymity (PA) and moral disengagement (MD) on OCPB were also observed and validated.

Research limitations/implications

The study examined the critical factors and their linkages while building upon a structural framework on OCPB, keeping India as a representative sample. The proposed framework will bring more clarity and further insights that will help scholars expand the research domain with more cross-cultural studies and aid brand e-marketers to strategize their action towards developing strong brand aesthetic values.

Originality/value

The study contributes towards the literature by introducing PA and MD vis-à-vis building a framework for studying young consumers’ OCPB.
Capturing children's play behaviours in outdoor environments: A comparative analysis of play in early adolescence at primary school versus high school
Authors: Kennedy‐Behr Ann , Webb‐Williams Jane L.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Transition from primary school to high school can be a time of significant stress for young people. Social connection may mitigate the stress experienced by young people, yet their play activities, which are a key source of connection and friendship, have not been examined. The aim of the study was to capture the play behaviours of children in outdoor school environments.

Methods

Children's play behaviours in their final year of primary school and those in their first year of high school were captured using a standardised tool (Tool for Observing Play Outdoors). Observations occurred in school outdoor environments during break times in the South Australian autumn of 2021. Frequencies and types of play were compared between year levels using descriptive statistics and contingency tables. Data were collected from four schools (two metropolitan and two regional), which were all from a similar level on the Index of Educational Disadvantage. Four observation sessions were held at each school.

Results

Parents of 42 (16 girls) primary school students and 85 (33 girls) high school students gave permission for their children to participate. Physical play was the most frequent activity observed in both primary school and high school followed by expressive play. Year level was significantly associated with the type of play engaged in.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrate children in the first year of high school continue to engage in physical and social play albeit less than those in the final year of primary school. Further research is needed to determine whether the physical and social environment or onset of puberty is more influential on changes in children's play.
Increased cyanophage infection at the bottom of the euphotic zone, especially in the fall
Authors: Fuchsman Clara A. , Hays Matthew D.
Published: October 2023

Picocyanobacteria contribute greatly to offshore primary production with cells extending through the deep euphotic zone. Literature indicates high viral infection of cyanobacteria in ocean transition zones. We postulate that the bottom of the euphotic zone is a transition zone, where communities transition from phototrophic to aphotic processes. We use single‐copy core genes to examine cyanophage to cyanobacteria ratios in cellular metagenomes in the subtropical North Atlantic and Pacific. Cyanophage to cyanobacteria terL/rpoB ratios generally increase to >10 in the deep euphotic zone. As light levels decrease in the fall, Prochlorococcus in the deep euphotic zone experience reduced light levels. We find clear differences between spring (Geotraces GA02) and fall (GA03) in the North Atlantic, with terL/rpoB ratios increasing to >40 in the fall. When examining 23 months of the North Pacific Hawaii Ocean Timeseries, the depth of elevated cyanophage to cyanobacteria ratios in cellular metagenomes negatively correlated with surface photosynthetic radiation (PAR), particularly with the change in PAR, which reflected the season. In fall, all picocyanobacteria ecotypes were found at depths enriched with viruses, while in summer, only low light ecotypes were affected. Thus, we find high cyanophage infection both in the deep euphotic zone and during seasonal transitions.
Perinatal mental health screening for women of refugee background: Addressing a major gap in pregnancy care
Authors: Willey Suzanne M. , Gibson Melanie E. , Blackmore Rebecca , Goonetilleke Liyasha , McBride Jacqueline , Highet Nicole , Ball Natahl , Gray Kylie M. , Melvin Glenn , Boyd Leanne M. , East Christine E. , Boyle Jacqueline A.
Published: October 2023

Background

Perinatal mental health disorders affect up to 20% of all women. Women of refugee background are likely to be at increased risk, yet little research has explored this. This study aimed to assess if women of refugee background are more likely to screen risk positive for depression and anxiety than non‐refugee women, using the Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS); and if screening in pregnancy using the EPDS enables better detection of depression and anxiety symptoms in women of refugee background than routine care.

Methods

This implementation study was conducted at an antenatal clinic in Melbourne, Australia. Women of refugee and non‐refugee backgrounds were screened for depression using English or translated versions of the EPDS and a psychosocial assessment on a digital platform. The psychosocial assessment records of 34 women of refugee background receiving routine care (no screening) were audited.

Results

Overall, 274 women completed the EPDS; 43% of refugee background. A similar proportion of women of refugee and non‐refugee backgrounds had EPDS scores of ≥9 (39% vs. 40% p = 0.93). Women receiving the combined EPDS and psychosocial screening were more likely to receive a referral for further support than women receiving routine care (41% vs. 18%, p = 0.012).

Conclusion

Similarly, high proportions of women of refugee and non‐refugee backgrounds were at increased risk of experiencing a current depressive disorder in early pregnancy, suggesting pregnancy care systems should acknowledge and respond to the mental health needs of these women. Screening appeared to facilitate the identification and referral of women compared to routine care.
Quantitative interpretation of bone marrow biopsies in MPN—What's the point in a molecular age?
Authors: Ryou Hosuk , Lomas Oliver , Theissen Helen , Thomas Emily , Rittscher Jens , Royston Daniel
Published: October 2023

The diagnosis of myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPN) requires the integration of clinical, morphological, genetic and immunophenotypic findings. Recently, there has been a transformation in our understanding of the cellular and molecular mechanisms underlying disease initiation and progression in MPN. This has been accompanied by the widespread application of high‐resolution quantitative molecular techniques. By contrast, microscopic interpretation of bone marrow biopsies by haematologists/haematopathologists remains subjective and qualitative. However, advances in tissue image analysis and artificial intelligence (AI) promise to transform haematopathology. Pioneering studies in bone marrow image analysis offer to refine our understanding of the boundaries between reactive samples and MPN subtypes and better capture the morphological correlates of high‐risk disease. They also demonstrate potential to improve the evaluation of current and novel therapeutics for MPN and other blood cancers. With increased therapeutic targeting of diverse molecular, cellular and extra‐cellular components of the marrow, these approaches can address the unmet need for improved objective and quantitative measures of disease modification in the context of clinical trials. This review focuses on the state‐of‐the‐art in image analysis/AI of bone marrow tissue, with an emphasis on its potential to complement and inform future clinical studies and research in MPN.
EpCAM and APN expression in combination with γ‐H2AX as biomarkers for detecting hepatocarcinogens in rats
Authors: Akagi Jun‐ichi , Cho Young‐Man , Toyoda Takeshi , Mizuta Yasuko , Ogawa Kumiko
Published: October 2023

The phosphorylated form of histone H2AX (γ‐H2AX) serves as a commonly utilized biomarker for DNA damage. Based on our previous findings, which demonstrated the formation of γ‐H2AX foci as a reliable biomarker for detecting bladder carcinogens in repeated dose 28‐day study in rats, we hypothesized that γ‐H2AX could also function as a biomarker for detecting hepatocarcinogens. However, we found that γ‐H2AX foci formation was not effectively induced by hepatocarcinogens that did not stimulate hepatocyte proliferation. Therefore, we explored alternative biomarkers to detect chemical hepatocarcinogenicity and discovered increased expressions of epithelial cell adhesion molecule (EpCAM/CD326)‐ and aminopeptidase N (APN/CD13) in the hepatocytes of rats administered various hepatocarcinogens. Significant increases in EpCAM‐ and APN‐positive hepatocytes were observed for eight and five of the 10 hepatocarcinogens, respectively. Notably, five and two of them, respectively, were negative for γ‐H2AX foci. These results highlight the potential of EpCAM and APN as useful biomarkers in combination with γ‐H2AX for the detection of chemical hepatocarcinogenicity.
Unravelling neurodevelopmental complexity of motor profiles and attention in developmental coordination disorder
Authors: Gomez Alice , Gonzalez‐Monge Sibylle , Huron Caroline , Mazza Stephanie
Published: October 2023

This commentary is on the original article by Bonthrone et al. on pages 362–378 of this issue.
Effect of delay in treatment intensification in people with type 2 diabetes and suboptimal glycaemia after basal insulin initiation: A real‐world observational study
Authors: Shabnam Sharmin , Abner Sophia , Gillies Clare L. , Davies Melanie J. , Dex Terry , Khunti Kamlesh , Webb David R. , Zaccardi Francesco , Seidu Samuel
Published: October 2023

Aim

Despite global recommendations for type 2 diabetes mellitus treatment to maintain optimal glycaemic targets, a significant proportion of people remain in suboptimal glycaemic control. Our objective was to investigate the impact of intensification delay after basal insulin (BI) initiation on long‐term complications in people with suboptimal glycaemia.

Materials and Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study in individuals with type 2 diabetes mellitus initiated on BI. Those with suboptimal glycaemia (glycated haemoglobin ≥7% or ≥53 mmol/mol) within 12 months of BI initiation were divided into early (treatment intensified within 5 years), or late (≥5 years) intensification groups. We estimated the age‐stratified risks of micro‐ and macrovascular complications among these groups compared with those with optimal glycaemia (glycated haemoglobin <7%).

Results

Of the 13 916 people with suboptimal glycaemia, 52.5% (n = 7304) did not receive any treatment intensification. In those aged <65 years, compared with the optimal glycaemia group late intensification was associated with a 56% higher risk of macrovascular complications (adjusted hazard ratio 1.56; 95% confidence intervals 1.08, 2.26). In elderly people (≥65 years), late intensification was associated with a higher risk of cardiovascular‐related death (1.62; 1.03, 2.54) and a lower risk of microvascular complications (0.26; 0.08, 0.83).

Conclusions

Those who had late intensification were at an increased risk of cardiovascular death if they were ≥65 years and an increased risk of macrovascular complications if they were <65 years. These findings highlight the critical need for earlier intensification of treatment and adopting personalized treatment strategies to improve patient outcomes.
Altered amygdala volumes and microstructure in focal epilepsy patients with tonic–clonic seizures, ictal, and post‐convulsive central apnea
Authors: Zeicu Claudia , Legouhy Antoine , Scott Catherine A. , Oliveira Joana F. A. , Winston Gavin P. , Duncan John S. , Vos Sjoerd B. , Thom Maria , Lhatoo Samden , Zhang Hui , Harper Ronald M. , Diehl Beate
Published: October 2023

Objectives

Sudden unexpected death in epilepsy (SUDEP) is a leading cause of death for patients with epilepsy; however, the pathophysiology remains unclear. Focal‐to‐bilateral tonic–clonic seizures (FBTCS) are a major risk factor, and centrally‐mediated respiratory depression may increase the risk further. Here, we determined the volume and microstructure of the amygdala, a key structure that can trigger apnea in people with focal epilepsy, stratified by the presence or absence of FBTCS, ictal central apnea (ICA), and post‐convulsive central apnea (PCCA).

Methods

Seventy‐three patients with focal impaired awareness seizures without FBTC seizures (FBTCneg group) and 30 with FBTCS (FBTCpos group) recorded during video electroencephalography (VEEG) with respiratory monitoring were recruited prospectively during presurgical investigations. We acquired high‐resolution T1‐weighted anatomic and multi‐shell diffusion images, and computed neurite orientation dispersion and density imaging (NODDI) metrics in all patients with epilepsy and 69 healthy controls. Amygdala volumetric and microstructure alterations were compared between three groups: healthy subjects, FBTCneg and FBTCpos groups. The FBTCpos group was further subdivided by the presence of ICA and PCCA, verified by VEEG.

Results

Bilateral amygdala volumes were significantly increased in the FBTCpos cohort compared to healthy controls and the FBTCneg group. Patients with recorded PCCA had the highest increase in bilateral amygdala volume of the FBTCpos cohort.

Amygdala neurite density index (NDI) values were decreased significantly in both the FBTCneg and FBTCpos groups relative to healthy controls, with values in the FBTCpos group being the lowest of the two. The presence of PCCA was associated with significantly lower NDI values vs the non‐apnea FBTCpos group (p = 0.004).

Significance

Individuals with FBTCpos and PCCA show significantly increased amygdala volumes and disrupted architecture bilaterally, with greater changes on the left side. The structural alterations reflected by NODDI and volume differences may be associated with inappropriate cardiorespiratory patterns mediated by the amygdala, particularly after FBTCS. Determination of amygdala volumetric and architectural changes may assist identification of individuals at risk.
Joint status, pain and quality of life in elderly people with haemophilia: A case‐control study
Authors: Chantrain Valérie‐Anne , Foubert Anthe , Meeus Mira , Lambert Catherine , Lobet Sébastien , Maes Philip , Fransen Erik , Durnez Lies , Hermans Cedric , Roussel Nathalie Anne
Published: October 2023

Introduction

Elderly people with haemophilia (PwH) develop haemophilic arthropathy, pain, and reduced health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL). The condition of elderly mild haemophilia patients have rarely been evaluated. This study aimed to compare joint status, pain, and HR‐QoL between elderly with mild, moderate/severe haemophilia and healthy elderlies.

Methods

Knee/ankle abnormalities were assessed by ultrasound (HEAD‐US) and physical examination (HJHS 2.1). Pain severity and pain interference were investigated using the Brief Pain Inventory. Pressure pain thresholds (PPTs) were obtained at knees/ankles and forehead. Functional limitations were evaluated using the 2‐Minute‐Walking‐Test, Timed‐Up‐and‐Go and HAL. The EQ‐5D‐5L questionnaire evaluated HR‐QoL. Healthy controls (HCs) and elderly individuals with moderate/severe and mild haemophilia were compared using Kruskal–Wallis and Mann–Whitney U tests.

Results

From the 46 elderly PwH approached, 40 individuals (≥60 years) with haemophilia A/B (17 moderate/severe; 23 mild) and 20 age‐matched HCs were recruited. Moderate/severe PwH displayed worse joint status, lower PPTs, and poorer HR‐QoL than mild PwH and HCs (p‐value = .010–<.001). HEAD‐US abnormalities were observed in 100% of knees and 94% of ankles in moderate/severe PwH, versus 50% of knees and 61% of ankles in mild PwH. Pain was reported by 80% and 57% of moderate/severe and mild PwH, respectively. Low PPTs, functional limitations, and poor HR‐QoL scores were likewise observed in some mild PwH, yet without significantly differing from HCs.

Conclusion

This study highlights poor joint/functional status, pain, and HR‐QoL outcomes in elderly with moderate/severe haemophilia. A few mild haemophilia subjects presented joint abnormalities, pain, functional limitations, and poor HR‐QoL, without significantly differing from HCs.

Highlights

Elderly individuals with mild haemophilia have not yet been extensively studied, whereas moderate/severe haemophilia individuals have proven to suffer from haemophilic arthropathy, pain, and poor health‐related quality of life (HR‐QoL).

Using a case‐control design, joint status, pain, and HR‐QoL outcomes were examined in elderly haemophilia individuals and compared with those of healthy controls (HCs).

Elderly moderate/severe haemophilia individuals exhibited worse joint status, increased joint pain sensitivity, and reduced HR‐QoL compared with both mild haemophilia subjects and HCs. A subset of mild haemophilia subjects exhibited poor joint status, pain, and HR‐QoL outcomes, without any differences noted when compared with HCs.
Boethius's Definition of the Person in Context: Chalcedon, Tradition, and Consolation
Authors: Spun Brandon
Published: October 2023

Abstract: While Boethius's definition of the person, ‘an individual substance of a rational nature’, plays a significant role in Christian theology and anthropology, its reception is by no means uncritical. In the last hundred years, virtually every element in it has been critiqued by theologians and secular scholars. Nevertheless, its context suggests that his understanding of the person is potentially far richer than supposed. This paper places Boethius's definition of the person in its historical framework and in the context of his own thought, especially Contra Eutyches and Consolation of Philosophy, in order to demonstrate that despite shortcomings, it represents a dynamic and holistic characterisation of the person.
Durability of the improvement of collagen I and collagen III with the use of oral isotretinoin in the treatment of photoaging
Authors: Azulay David R. , Bravo Bruna S. F. , Azulay Vitoria , Martins Fabiane F. , Luiz Ronir R. , Cuzzi Tullia , Mandarim Carlos A. , Manela‐Azulay Mônica
Published: October 2023

Background

Oral isotretinoin (ISO) is the drug of choice for the treatment of severe acne. For photoaging treatment, ISO has been proved to be effective in some controlled and noncontrolled trials and is an alternative to topical retinoic acid (RA) therapy, which causes an expected skin irritation.

Objective

To evaluate and compare the skin remodeling in patients taking ISO 20 mg 3 times a week for 12 weeks and 12 weeks after the end of the treatment to quantify collagen I and collagen III augmentation.

Material and methods

Immunohistochemical studies were performed to evaluate the expression of collagen I and collagen III, metalloproteinases (MMPs) ‐1, ‐3, ‐7, ‐9, ‐12, and the tissue inhibitor of MMP type‐1 (TIMP‐1) of the skin of 20 45 to 50‐year‐old women through morphometry in a semiquantitative method. The inclusion criteria were facial aging 2 and 3 of Glogau's classification, with phototypes between II and V who had not entered menopause. Biopsies of the skin of the left preauricular region were performed at three different times: pre‐treatment (T0), end of 12‐week treatment (T1), and 12 weeks posttreatment (T2).

Results

Collagen fibers I and III increased with statistical significance in T1 (50.7%; P = 0.012) but not in T2 (49.7%), which in turn was higher than in T0 (47.2%) for collagen I and T1 (33.3%; P = 0.002) but not in T2 (32.7%), and also was higher than T0 (32.0%) for collagen III. MMP‐9 presented a decreased activity with statistical significance in T1 (P = 0.047) and T2 (P = 0.058). MMP‐1 showed a reduction in T2 only (P = 0.015). MMPs ‐3, ‐7, ‐12, and TIMP‐1 did not present significant modification in their expressions during or after the treatment.

Conclusions

Low‐dose ISO is effective in remodeling the extracellular matrix (ECM). This study found that the increase of collagen occurs through the augmentation of both collagen I and collagen III fibers. With originality, it was possible to verify the durability of these fibers for at least 12 weeks. This may be related to the decrease in MMP‐9 expression verified at the end of the treatment and 12 weeks posttreatment.
Safety and quality attributes of fresh sardines (Sardina pilchardus) in storage scenarios imitating harvest‐to‐refrigerator conditions
Authors: Chatzikyriakidou Kyriaki , Dimakopoulou‐Papazoglou Dafni , Katsanidis Eugenios
Published: October 2023

The effect of initial storage temperature on the quality and safety characteristics of sardines was investigated. Initially, fresh sardines were stored in aerobic conditions at 0 °C, 5 °C or 10 °C for 24 h and subsequently, they were vacuum packed and stored at two distinct temperatures, namely 4 °C and 8 °C. Microbial growth, lipid oxidation (TBA values), pH, total volatile basic nitrogen (TVB‐N) and biogenic amines concentrations were monitored throughout storage. There were no notable differences in the pH levels of the different treatments, whereas higher TBA and TVBN values were observed for the sardines initially stored at higher temperatures. Significant differences (P < 0.05) in biogenic amine concentrations were observed throughout storage time. Samples exposed to lower initial temperatures exhibited longer lag times and lower production rates of biogenic amines. There were no statistically significant differences observed in microbial populations, although the sardine samples stored at 10 °C initially had the highest microbial populations. These results support the conclusion that initial handling conditions are important for the shelf‐life of fresh sardines and can drastically affect their overall quality and safety.
Yeast competition during alcoholic fermentation of agave. Its comprehension as a way to reach sustainable mezcal production
Authors: Acosta‐García Erick D. , Páez‐Lerma Jesús B. , Moreno‐Jiménez Martha R. , Rojas‐Contreras Juan A. , Soto‐Cruz Nicolás O.
Published: October 2023

The mezcal industry faces challenges such as overexploitation of wild agaves, poor cooking processes, incomplete fermentation, little control of the distillation process, and the generation of agro‐industrial waste. Successful fermentation is essential to reach a sustainable agave exploitation process in this context. This review focuses on the interactions between different yeast species in alcoholic fermentation, particularly agave fermentation, for mezcal production. A significant variation was observed regarding techniques, fermentation conditions, and yeasts used. These variations influence the chemical composition of alcoholic beverages, especially mezcal. The influence of various factors, such as the processing method, geographic origin, agave species, used, and microbial populations, is also discussed. An attractive alternative is to design starter cultures with carefully selected yeasts based on a detailed study of their interactions. It would allow reaching an acceptable use of the agave sugars obtaining mezcals with attractive organoleptic characteristics, produced in less time and at a lower cost.
Leptin resistance in children with in utero exposure to maternal obesity and gestational diabetes
Authors: Everett Alysha B. , Garvey W. Timothy , Fernandez Jose R. , Habegger Kirk , Harper Lorie M. , Battarbee Ashley N. , Martin Samantha L. , Moore Bethany A. , Fouts Amelia E. , Bahorski Jessica , Chandler‐Laney Paula C.
Published: October 2023

Background

Leptin resistance occurs with obesity, but it is unknown if individuals at risk for obesity develop leptin resistance prior to obesity.

Objective

Investigate whether leptin resistance is independent of weight status in children at risk for obesity due to intrauterine exposure to maternal obesity or gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Methods

Mother–child dyads (N = 179) were grouped by maternal pregnancy weight and GDM status: (1) normal weight, no GDM; (2) overweight/obesity, no GDM; (3) overweight/obesity with GDM. Children (4–10 years) were further stratified by current body mass index (BMI) <85th or ≥85th percentile. Leptin resistance of children and mothers was calculated as fasting leptin/fat mass index. Two‐way ANOVA was used to assess whether leptin concentrations and leptin resistance differed by current weight status or in utero exposure group, after adjusting for race, sex and Tanner stage.

Results

Children with a BMI ≥85th percentile had more leptin resistance than those with a BMI <85th percentile (p < 0.001), but leptin resistance did not differ by in utero exposure. Similarly, leptin resistance in women was associated with weight status and not prior GDM.

Conclusions

Results suggest that leptin concentrations are associated with obesity but not risk for obesity based on in utero exposure to maternal obesity or GDM.
Contribution of general medicine to perioperative and consultative care: an Australian metropolitan teaching hospital experience
Authors: Buxton David , Low Ashlea V. X. , Gibbs Harry H. , Coates Richard , Aung Ar Kar
Published: October 2023

Little is known about the contribution of general medicine to perioperative and consultative care in Australia. A descriptive observational study was undertaken at a quaternary institution to evaluate the characteristics of perioperative and nonoperative consultations undertaken by general medicine. Results demonstrated patterns of engagement within a ‘traditional’ model of perioperative care and highlighted several opportunities for a redesign to a more proactive and collaborative cross‐disciplinary model.
Comparison between two molar incisor hypomineralization detection criteria in epidemiological surveys
Authors: Mendonça Fernanda Lyrio , Regnault Fabiana Giuseppina Di Campli , Grizzo Isabella Claro , Martins Daiana da Silva , Fragelli Camila , Leal Soraya Coelho , Honório Heitor Marques , Rios Daniela
Published: October 2023

Background

There is no consensus on which molar incisor hypomineralization (MIH) indices are more suitable for epidemiological surveys.

Aim

To compare the operational aspects and diagnostic ability of the MIH index (simplified/MIH_s and extended/MIH_e) with the MIH‐Severity Scoring System (MIH‐SSS) in classifying and diagnosing MIH.

Design

This cross‐sectional study assessed the indices in a homogeneous group of 680 6‐ to 10‐year‐old schoolchildren in Bauru, Brazil, who had at least one first permanent molar, ensuring consistent conditions. Followed by toothbrushing, the children seated on school chairs were examined by the two calibrated researchers under artificial lighting, using mouth mirror and WHO probe, and chronometer recording the duration of examinations.

Results

The prevalence of MIH was 24.7%. The most common characteristic of MIH was demarcated opacity, with a prevalence of 81.7% and 85.45% according to the MIH_s and the MIH‐SSS, respectively. A positive association was observed among the MIH_s, the MIH_e, and the MIH‐SSS (chi‐squared test; p < .01). The MIH‐SSS demonstrated a shorter average application time than both versions of the MIH index (ANOVA/Tukey; p < .05). Additionally, fluorosis was found to be the most prevalent among other developmental defects of enamel, with a prevalence of 38.38%.

Conclusion

All systems effectively diagnosed MIH and its characteristics.
RETRACTED: Effect of hydrocolloid dressing on pressure ulcer in patients with non‐invasive positive pressure ventilation: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Luo Yu‐Lan , Luo Shi‐Feng , Luo Lin , Ou Min , Tang Meng‐Lin
Published: October 2023

This study systematically evaluated the effect of hydrocolloid dressings on facial pressure ulcers in patients receiving non‐invasive positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV). The Embase, PubMed, Cochrane Library, CNKI, VIP, Chinese Biomedical Literature Database and Wanfang databases were searched for randomised controlled trials on the use of hydrocolloid dressings in patients receiving NIPPV published from the inception of each database to August 2023. The literature was independently screened, data were extracted by two authors based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, and the quality of the included literature was assessed. The meta‐analysis was performed using Stata 17.0. Thirteen studies including 1248 patients were included, with 639 patients in the intervention group and 609 patients in the control group. Meta‐analysis showed that the hydrocolloid dressing significantly reduced the incidence of facial pressure ulcers in patients with NIPPV (odds ratio = 0.16, 95% confidence intervals: 0.11–0.24, p < 0.001). Hydrocolloid dressings are effective in reducing the incidence of facial pressure ulcers in patients receiving NIPPV. However, because of the small number of included studies, this conclusion needs to be confirmed with larger samples and high‐quality clinical studies.
Functional Properties of Proteins Immobilized on Albumin Microspheres
Authors: Yan CH , Kitano H. , Ise N.
Published: October 2023

Bovine serum albumin (BSA) microspheres with an average diameter of 12.5 micron were prepared by crosslinking of BSA molecules with glutaraldehyde in the presence of polymethylmethacrylate dissolved in chloroform‐toluene. Trypsin and anti‐human IgG antibody were immobilized onto their surfaces by the glutaraldehyde‐activation method. The catalytic activity and storage stability of the immobilized trypsin were satisfactorily high. The enzyme immunoassay (EIA) method using BSA‐microspheres as a solid phase has a high sensitivity (the minimum concentration of detectable antigen in the sample: 0.2 ng/ml) and a wide concentration range (final concentration 0.027–3000 ng/ml) for the detection of human IgG.
Influence of Salts on the Covalent Immobilization of Proteins to Modified Copolymers of 2‐Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate with Ethylene Dimethacrylate
Authors: Smalla K. , Turkova J. , Coupek J. , Hermann P.
Published: October 2023

In the study of the covalent immobilization of aminoacylase, thermitase, pepsin, trypsin, chymotrypsin, elastase, subtilisin, penicillinamidohydrolase, carboxypeptidase A, cystathionine‐beta‐synthase, and anticathepsin D‐IgG to copolymers of 2‐hydroxyethyl methacrylate and ethylene dimethacrylate (Separon HEMA) containing epoxy groups a marked influence of added salts on the immobilization efficiency was observed. Yields in covalently bound active enzymes were dependent on the concentrations and type of ions added, which can be arranged according to the Hofmeister series. At a distinct concentration, the salting‐out ions cause a protein‐matrix hydrophobic interaction which is a prerequisite for the covalent bond formation.
Regulation of Proteolysis in Escherichia Coli Cells by Antisense RNA of Htpr Gene
Authors: Kiselev VI , Tarasova IM
Published: October 2023

A new vector has been constructed on the basis of plasmid pCQV2 containing thermoinducible regulatory elements of bacteriophage lambda. The vector makes it possible to combine an inducible synthesis of foreign proteins with negative control of intracellular proteolysis. The principle employed for the construction of the plasmid implies the regulation of gene expression by antisense RNAs. In the SalI restriction site of pCQV2 a fragment of htpR gene encoding the N‐terminal region of the polypeptide has been cloned in opposite orientation. At 42 degrees C transcription from the PR promoter of the plasmid is initiated, resulting in the synthesis of htpR antisense RNA. The product of htpR gene is known to be responsible for positive regulation of transcription of at least three genes encoding proteases lon, groEL, and groES. Inactivation of the htpR transcript due to its complementary pairing with the antisense RNA hinders the synthesis of proteases under temperature stress conditions, thus leading to the reduction in the rate of proteolysis of abnormal proteins.