bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Work from anywhere: remote stakeholder management and engagement
Authors: Tran Nhu Quynh , Carden Lila Lenora , Zhang Justin Zuopeng
Published: August 2022

Purpose

The 2019 coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic has significantly disrupted the traditional ways for organizations to function, mandating their prompt adaptation and reaction to issues related to employees, operations, and communication. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to report on a total quality management (TQM) implementation as a sample motivational case to support the need for a new work from anywhere (WFA) stakeholder framework that can be used by other companies as they build, maintain, and continuously improve a WFA culture and environment for successful Quality 4.0 and COVID-19 initiatives.

Design/methodology/approach

Quality 4.0 that specifies an adaptive quality environment can help organizations quickly identify and respond to problems during the COVID-19 pandemic. Analyzing a Lean Six Sigma implementation through the lens of Quality 4.0 in a case study, the authors propose a new stakeholder engagement framework for companies to build, maintain, and continuously improve the culture and environment for facilitating social interactions.

Findings

The authors’ proposed framework consists of three major phases: (1) identify and plan stakeholder management, (2) manage stakeholder engagement, and (3) sustain stakeholder engagement. The first phase entails organizations supporting a culture of trust, engaging, and empowering stakeholders, identifying stakeholders, planning for stakeholder management, and inquiring about problems in the process. The second phase requires engaging stakeholders via participatory buy-in. The third phase focuses on monitoring stakeholder relationships, including modifying strategies and plans.

Practical implications

This study bears some valuable implications for practitioners. First, the stakeholder management process should be established upon a culture that promotes trust, engagement, and empowerment. Second, the authors identify tools that can assist in the execution of WFA activities. Third, the organizational team needs to actively manage the WFA stakeholders and then sustain the stakeholder relationships. Finally, the implementation of the framework herein can be supported and strengthened by tools and techniques that promote participation and buy-in from stakeholders to ensure the project team hears, trusts, and values their contributions.

Originality/value

This study contributes to the existing literature and provides practical guidance for managers to effectively manage the workforce and engage stakeholders.
Impact of information system institutionalization on corruption in the Brazilian public health system
Authors: Magnagnagno Odirlei Antonio , Luciano Edimara M. , Wiedenhöft Guilherme
Published: August 2022

Purpose

This study investigates the corruption practices from a behavioral perspective, and aims to verify the impact of health Management Information System (MIS) institutionalization on corruption vulnerabilities and the intention to commit corruption. The studied vulnerabilities are related to management: lack of internal control, accountability, transparency and disburdened administration. This study was conducted in the Brazilian public health system.

Design/methodology/approach

A research model and instrument were created based on the literature. The model was later tested using the partial least squares technique. A survey of 355 valid responses followed a pilot test with 87 ones. The respondents were civil servants of the Brazilian public health system.

Findings

Seven of the eight hypotheses were confirmed, supporting the main hypothesis that MIS institutionalization impacts individuals’ behavior by reducing their intention to commit corruption. Institutionalized health MIS improves public management, enabling the prevention of favoritism when awarding service provision contracts, undue payments to corrupt employees and waste of medical and hospital supplies.

Originality/value

This research adds to the knowledge on corruption from an individual’s behavior perspective influenced by MIS institutionalization in a Latin American perspective. Corruption is a social and cultural-based phenomenon, which reinforces the importance of understanding the effect of Information Systems institutionalization on corruption vulnerabilities in this context. A research model and instrument were created and validated, confirming corruption vulnerabilities that influence behavior. The intention to commit corruption is reduced when mediated by institutionalized MIS. Consequently, the focus must be shifted from moral beliefs to creating and strengthening organizational capacity to systematically identify and reduce vulnerabilities and deter misbehavior and wrongdoings.
Carotenoderma due to lycopenemia: A case report and evaluation of lycopene deposition in the skin
Authors: Tanaka Arisa , Miyauchi Toshinari , Kitamura Shinya , Iwata Hiroaki , Hata Hiroo , Ujiie Hideyuki
Published: August 2022

Carotenoderma is a yellow‐orange coloration of the skin caused by high levels of serum carotenoids, mostly due to the excessive intake of carotenoid‐rich foods. The yellowish coloration is typically observed on the palms, soles, and nasolabial folds. Although the physical appearance is prominent, the condition itself is benign and harmless. Diagnosing carotenoderma is not difficult because of its unique manifestations, but its pathophysiology remains unclear. We report a relatively rare case of carotenoderma due to lycopenemia caused by the excessive intake of lycopene‐rich vegetables and fruits. Lycopene is a carotenoid component that is distinguished by the high absorption of light around 488 nm. Given these characteristics, we examined a hematoxylin–eosin‐stained specimen from the patient and tape‐stripped samples by fluorescent microscopy with 488 nm wavelength emission and compared them with normal skin samples. Notably, the patient's samples showed a weaker autofluorescence in the stratum corneum and sweat glands. Furthermore, we measured carotenoid concentrations in the patient's skin noninvasively with Vegecheck® and found a higher score than the average of 24 healthy volunteers. These results support the long‐held hypothesis that carotenoids are secreted in sweat and are deposited in the stratum corneum. To the best of our knowledge, no previous reports have measured skin carotenoid levels nor detailed the pathological findings of carotenoderma patients. This case further highlights that the excessive intake of lycopene causes carotenoderma and demonstrates that carotenoid deposition is particularly pronounced in the stratum corneum of the skin.
The Textual Construction of North American Indigenous Peoples in the Account of Cook's Third Voyage
Authors: Iannuzzi Giulia
Published: August 2022

By foregrounding the stratification of cultural agencies underlying the text, this article analyses the conceptualization of human otherness in the official account of James Cook's third voyage, published in 1784. The close reading focuses on the case study of indigenous people encountered during Cook's journey up the west coast of North America. A Voyage to the Pacific Ocean is an excellent vantage point from which to examine the intimate connections between time, power, and knowledge, which characterized eighteenth‐century European culture. Drawing on existing scholarship, this study takes a closer look at John Douglas's hitherto neglected introduction to the first edition of the account, treating it as a conceptual threshold to the text and addressing the relationship between it and the main body of the account.
Coincidence of pachydermoperiostosis and synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, osteitis syndrome, a causal or casual association?
Authors: Feng Yuyin , Wang Afang , Dong Xia , Li Chen , Yuan Kai , Huang Guangrui , Wei Shufeng
Published: August 2022

Pachydermoperiostosis (PDP) is a rare disorder characterized by skin thickening, acropachia, and periostosis. Synovitis, acne, pustulosis, hyperostosis, osteitis (SAPHO) syndrome is also an orphan disease featured by different dermatological and osteoarthritic manifestations. Herein, we report the first case of an adolescent male diagnosed with both PDP and SAPHO syndrome, presenting with digital clubbing, polyarthralgia, ostealgia, pachydermia and acne on his face, chest and back. Furthermore, we distinguish the characteristics of both diseases and explore the potential pathological mechanism for this coexistence in one patient. Further investigations are needed to establish the detailed pathophysiological association of these 2 diseases.
Mitochondrial uncoupling protein‐2 reprograms metabolism to induce oxidative stress and myofibroblast senescence in age‐associated lung fibrosis
Authors: Rangarajan Sunad , Locy Morgan L. , Chanda Diptiman , Kurundkar Ashish , Kurundkar Deepali , Larson‐Casey Jennifer L. , Londono Pilar , Bagchi Rushita A. , Deskin Brian , Elajaili Hanan , Nozik Eva S. , Deshane Jessy S. , Zmijewski Jaroslaw W. , Eickelberg Oliver , Thannickal Victor J.
Published: August 2022

Mitochondrial dysfunction has been associated with age‐related diseases, including idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). We provide evidence that implicates chronic elevation of the mitochondrial anion carrier protein, uncoupling protein‐2 (UCP2), in increased generation of reactive oxygen species, altered redox state and cellular bioenergetics, impaired fatty acid oxidation, and induction of myofibroblast senescence. This pro‐oxidant senescence reprogramming occurs in concert with conventional actions of UCP2 as an uncoupler of oxidative phosphorylation with dissipation of the mitochondrial membrane potential. UCP2 is highly expressed in human IPF lung myofibroblasts and in aged fibroblasts. In an aging murine model of lung fibrosis, the in vivo silencing of UCP2 induces fibrosis regression. These studies indicate a pro‐fibrotic function of UCP2 in chronic lung disease and support its therapeutic targeting in age‐related diseases associated with impaired tissue regeneration and organ fibrosis.
Identifying human–brown bear conflict hotspots for prioritizing critical habitat and corridor conservation in southwestern Iran
Authors: Khosravi R. , Wan H. Y. , Sadeghi M.‐R. , Cushman S. A.
Published: August 2022

Multiple studies have used species distribution models to identify human–wildlife conflict drivers. An important application of these models is spatial conflict resolution by accounting for habitat suitability and corridors. We used distribution and connectivity models to identify habitats and corridors for brown bear Ursus arctos in southwestern Iran with high risk of bear damages, and evaluated the effects of landscape composition and configuration on the predicted conflict hotspots. We used 154 locations of bear damage incidents along with a suit of predictors to develop risk models. To prepare predictive variables, we used brown bear occurrence data and a number of covariates to develop a suitability model. We then converted the suitability map into a resistance surface and used a connectivity model to predict corridors. Finally, the bear damages risk map, habitats and corridors were overlaid to prioritize conflict hotspots, corridors and habitats, and conflict‐prone corridors. Proportion of suitable habitats, distance to village, density of forest patches, conservation areas and corridor bottlenecks were the main predictors contributing to bear damages risk. A total of 38.73% of habitats, and 6.24% of corridors across the 124 000‐km2 study area were identified as areas with high risk of bear damages. The risk of bear damage was also spatially associated with forests fragmentation and patchiness of habitat. Our results highlight the importance of landscape configuration and corridors when investigating the spatial patterns of bear damages. Our findings showed how the combination of distribution models and connectivity analysis can guide carnivore conservation planning aiming at reducing the risk of carnivore‐inflicted damages.
The structure of spleen in the long‐legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus): Histological and immunohistochemical study
Authors: Asker Hasan , Bakır Buket , Kurtdede Nevin , Altunay Hikmet , Karadağ Sarı Ebru
Published: August 2022

The aim of this study was to examine the structure of the spleen in the long‐legged buzzard (Buteo rufinus) by histologically and the distribution of the catalase in the spleen by immunohistochemically. The tissue materials were taken from three healthy long‐legged buzzards provided by permission of the General Directorate of Nature Protection and National Parks (Ankara, Turkey). The long‐legged buzzard spleen is surrounded by smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. In addition, trabecular structures are not found in the capsule. The separation of white and red pulp areas could not be precisely determined. Plasma cells were detected especially around the lymphoid follicles and lymphatic follicles and Schweigger‐Seidel cells were formed by reticulum strands. Alcian blue positive reaction was determined in Schweigger‐Seidel cells and endothelial cells of the long‐legged buzzard spleen. The intense cytoplasmic catalase immunoreactivity was observed in the Schweigger‐Seidel cells and nuclear in some red pulp cells of the long‐legged buzzard spleen. Consequently, determination of the histological structure and catalase immunoreactivity of the spleen on the long‐legged buzzard by this study could be support for the future researches.
Trade uncorked: Genetic distance and taste‐related barriers in wine trade
Authors: Bargain Olivier , Cardebat Jean‐Marie , Chiappini Raphaël
Published: August 2022

A nascent literature explores the impact of taste differences on trade. In gravity model estimations, the coefficient on geographic distance is large because it tends to capture such (usually unobservable) preference‐related frictions. We examine this question in the context of French wine, that is, a cultural good characterized by a great variety of types (i.e. accommodating a large heterogeneity in wine tastes) and of quality levels (from cheap table wine to the finest grands crus). A series of gravity models are estimated using the universe of French bottled wine exports by detailed appellation between 1998 and 2015. We use genetic distance as a proxy for taste differences inherited from biology and culture. We show that this interpretation is not ruled out by other possible roles of genetic distance on trade (i.e., microgeography or non‐gustatory cultural dimensions such as trust). We find that genetic distance has an independent effect on trade, explaining between 20% and 40% of the coefficient on geographic distance. Dynamic estimates confirm this result and establish both the persistent and contemporaneous effects of genetic differences. A heterogeneous analysis also corroborates previous findings in the literature showing that high‐tier goods tend to escape gravity. In addition, we find that premium wines escape the home bias associated with taste differences, possibly illustrating that luxury wines have become global iconic products purchased for status and investment motives rather than for gustatory pleasure.
Prevalence of atrial fibrillation in a regional Victoria setting, findings from the crossroads studies (2001–2003 and 2016–2018)
Authors: Glenister Kristen , Bolitho Leslie , Bourke Lisa , Simmons David
Published: August 2022

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of atrial fibrillation (AF) in regional Victoria at two time points (2001–2003 and 2016–2018), and to assess the use of electrocardiogram rhythm strips in a rural, community‐based study for AF investigation.

Design

Repeated cross‐sectional design involving survey of residents of randomly selected households and a clinic. Predictors of AF were assessed using Firth penalised logistic regression, as appropriate for rare events.

Setting

Goulburn Valley, Victoria.

Participants

Household residents aged ≥16 years. Non‐pregnant participants aged 18+ were eligible for the clinic.

Main outcome measures

Atrial fibrillation by 12 lead electrocardiogram (earlier study) or electrocardiogram rhythm strip (AliveCor® device) (recent study).

Results

The age standardised prevalence of AF was similar between the two studies (1.6% in the 2001–2003 study and 1.8% in the 2016–2018 study, 95% confidence interval of difference −0.010, 0.014, p = 0.375). The prevalence in participants aged ≥65 years was 3.4% (1.0% new cases) in the recent study. Predictors of AF in the earlier study were male sex, older age and previous stroke, while in the recent study they were previous stroke and self‐reported diabetes. AliveCor® traces were successfully classified by the in‐built algorithm (91%) vs physician (100%).

Conclusion

The prevalence of AF among community‐based participants in regional Victoria was similar to predominantly metropolitan‐based studies, and was unchanged over time despite increased rates of risk factors. Electrocardiogram rhythm strip investigation was successfully utilised, and particularly benefited from physician overview.
Readability of online patient educational materials for common orthopaedic paediatric conditions within Australasia
Authors: Lock Alistair M. , Boukebous Baptiste , Baker Joseph F.
Published: August 2022

Background

The role of patient educational materials for paediatric patients is increasing. A reading grade level of eighth‐grade (USA) or year nine (Australia and New Zealand) is recommended as acceptable. The aim of this paper was to assess the reading grade levels of paediatric online patient educational materials, within Australasia.

Methods

The online Google® search engine was used with a variety of keyword combinations, filtered to the location of Australia and New Zealand. Suitable websites were explored for webpages related to slipped upper femoral epiphysis, septic arthritis, osteomyelitis, talipes equinovarus and developmental dysplasia of the hip. Readability was assessed using the online readability software WEB FX®.

Results

Seventy‐six patient educational webpages were analysed: 66 from Australia and 10 from New Zealand. Only eight of the 76 webpages (10.5%) had reading grade levels below the recommended eighth‐grade (US)/year nine (AUS/NZ) level. Webpages from private healthcare providers and pages related to septic arthritis had the significantly highest reading grades.

Conclusions

Australasian families have limited online patient educational materials available to them, which are mostly set at reading grade levels above recommended standards. Healthcare providers should be incentivized to improve the readability of their patient educational materials to reduce health disparities and improve health literacy moving forward.
A predictive nomogram model for low anterior resection syndrome after rectal cancer resection
Authors: Yan Mingfang , Lin Zhenmeng , Wu Zhiying , Zheng Huizhe , Shi Meiqin
Published: August 2022

Background

The aim of this study was to identify risk factors associated with the low anterior resection syndrome (LARS) and to construct a nomogram capable of predicting the risk of LARS in patients who undergo rectal cancer resection.

Methods

About 538 patients who had undergone anterior resection were recruited as a development set. In addition, 114 patients with rectal cancer were analysed as a validation set to test the new nomogram. Patients in the development set were grouped into two separate cohorts: those with major LARS and those with minor or no LARS. Multiple logistic regression was conducted to detect risk factors for major LARS.

Results

The prevalence of major LARS was 40.7%, of minor LARS was 28.6% and the proportion with no LARS was 30.7% in the development set. In multivariate analysis, female gender, preoperative chemoradiation, low tumour height, diverting ileostomy, postoperative anastomotic leakage were shown to be independently associated with major LARS occurring in patients after rectal cancer resection. The area under the curve (AUC) values of the nomogram were 0.726 (95% CI: 0.682–0.769) and 0.750 (95% CI: 0.655–0.845) in the development and validation sets, respectively. The calibration curves and Hosmer‐Lemeshow goodness of fit tests showed that the model was acceptably accurate.

Conclusion

A nomogram model based on risk factors could be valuable as a predictor of the probability of major LARS after rectal cancer surgery, and provides a guide that clinical staff can use to take preventive measures for high‐risk patients.
Editorial: further support for exclusive enteral nutrition in paediatric Crohn's disease
Authors: Hudson Alexandra S. , Wine Eytan
Published: August 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Sohouli et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17109
Letter: long‐term abdominal drains in cirrhosis – a solution or a new problem?
Authors: Verma Sumita
Published: August 2022

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Tergast et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17066 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17168
Nongenetic and genetic predictors of haemodynamic instability induced by propofol and opioids: A retrospective clinical study
Authors: Gu Qing‐ling , Xue Fa‐ling , Zheng Zhuo‐ling , Wang Hai‐ni , Guan Yan‐ping , Wen Yong‐zi , Ye Fang , Huang Min , Huang Wen‐qi , Wang Zhong‐xing , Li Jia‐li
Published: August 2022

Aim

Propofol and opioids are commonly used in anaesthesia, but are highly susceptible to haemodynamic instability, thereby threatening the patient's surgical safety and prognosis. The purpose of this study was to investigate the predictors of haemodynamic instability and establish its predictive model.

Methods

A total of 150 Chinese patients undergoing thyroid or breast surgery participated in the study, with target‐controlled infusion concentrations of propofol, opioids dosage, heart rate (HR), mean arterial pressure (MAP) and Narcotrend Index recorded at key points throughout the procedure. The Agena MassARRAY system was used to genotype candidate single nucleotide polymorphisms related to pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of propofol and opioids.

Results

Among nongenetic factors, baseline HR (R = −.579, P < .001) and baseline MAP (R = −.725, P < .001) had a significant effect on the haemodynamic instability. Among genetic factors, the CT/CC genotype of GABRB1 rs4694846 (95% confidence interval [CI]: −11.309 to −3.155), AA/AG of OPRM1 rs1799971 (95%CI: 0.773 to 10.290), AA of CES2 rs8192925 (95%CI: 1.842 to 9.090) were associated with higher HR instability; the AA/GG genotype of NR1I2 rs6438550 (95%CI: 0.351 to 7.761), AA of BDNF rs2049046 (95%CI: −9.039 to −0.640) and GG of GABBR2 rs1167768 (95%CI: −10.146 to −1.740) were associated with higher MAP instability. The predictive models of HR and MAP fluctuations were developed, accounting for 45.0 and 59.2% of variations, respectively.

Conclusion

We found that cardiovascular fundamentals and genetic variants of GABRB1, GABBR2, OPRM1, BDNF, CES2 and NR1I2 are associated with cardiovascular susceptibility, which can provide a reference for haemodynamic management in clinical anaesthesia.
Parenting and psychosis: An experience sampling methodology study investigating the inter‐relationship between stress from parenting and positive psychotic symptoms
Authors: Radley Jessica , Barlow Jane , Johns Louise C.
Published: August 2022

Objectives

There is a strong association between stress and psychotic symptoms, and this study examined the bidirectional nature of this relationship in parents with psychosis, with negative affect as a mediator and a range of other psychosocial factors included as covariates. It also examined whether stress from parenting had a larger impact on psychosis than non‐parenting stress.

Design

The study used a within‐participants repeated measures design, using experience sampling methodology (ESM). ESM is a self‐report surveying technique completed over an intensive longitudinal period. Participants completed six surveys a day, for 10 days.

Methods

Thirty‐five participants with psychosis who were a parent to a child between the ages of 2 and 16 took part. Study phones alerted participants to complete surveys by beeping at semi‐random intervals over 10 days. Multi‐level modelling was used with surveys at Level‐1 and participants at Level‐2. Predictor variables were time‐lagged in order to infer directionality.

Results

Parenting stress was found to predict psychotic symptoms, and this relationship was mediated by negative affect. The reverse direction was also confirmed. Few of the additional psychosocial factors were found to have a significant impact on the models' estimations. Parenting stress was not found to have a larger impact on psychosis than other sources of stress.

Conclusions

This study provides further evidence of the bidirectional relationship between stress and psychosis in the context of parenting. Further research should explore if parenting stress plays a unique role in predicting psychotic symptoms by comparing parents and non‐parents with psychosis.
“Teacher, forgive me, I forgot to do it!” The impact of children's prospective memory on teachers' evaluation of academic performance
Authors: Basso Demis , Corradini Giovanni , Cottini Milvia
Published: August 2022

Background

According to Munsat (1965,The concept of memory. University of Michigan), a person who makes frequent prospective memory (PM) errors is considered as having a flawed character rather than a bad memory. Given that PM completes its development only in young adulthood, this bias might occur not only within social relationships but also in school. However, little is known about the impact of this bias on academic performance.

Aims

This study aimed to evaluate the impact of children's PM on teacher's evaluations of their academic performance (i.e., grades) and social skills.

Sample

A total of 158 eight‐ and twelve‐year‐old children (48% females) participated in this study.

Methods

A working memory (WM) updating task was used as ongoing task (OT), in which the PM task was embedded and required participants to respond whenever certain pictures appeared. Children's social skills were measured through teacher ratings, whereas grades were collected as indicators of teachers' assessment of academic performance. Children's WM span and inhibitory control were also assessed.

Results

Results showed that 8‐ and 12‐year‐old children's academic performance was predicted by both PM performance and teachers' evaluations of social skills. However, social skills evaluations were not predicted by PM performance. WM span was related to grades in 8 year olds, while inhibitory control was related to PM performance in 12 year olds.

Conclusions

These outcomes highlight that children's grades are not explained only by academic performance itself but also by other personal skills. Awareness of the biases which can occur when evaluating children's academic performance can help teachers to be more objective in their assessment.
Double‐J stent placement during laparoscopic ureterolithotomy: the “seagull” technique
Authors: Asimakopoulos Anastasios D. , Colalillo Gaia , Miano Roberto , Agrò Enrico Finazzi , Farullo Giuseppe , Fuschi Andrea , Pastore Antonio Luigi , Germani Stefano
Published: August 2022

Objective

To present a new technique of double‐j stent (DJ) placement during laparoscopic transperitoneal ureterolithotomy (LUL).

Patients and methods

Following the extraction of the stone, a 6 French DJ open‐end stent is prepared: two straight‐tip hydrophilic guidewires are inserted into the appropriate lateral holes of the stent, as identified by the preoperative evaluation of the CT scan. Approximately 5 centimeters of each wire protrude from the proximal and distal ends of the stent to straighten its terminal curl, thus resembling the wings of a flying seagull. The remaining proximal portions of both guide wires are left within each guidewire dispenser. The two ends of the stent are grasped together in a U‐fashion and inserted into the abdomen through a 10mm port. Once in the abdomen, the longer segment of the stent is inserted and pushed into the ureterotomy until it reaches the target site. The guide wire is then removed. The same procedure is repeated for the other end of the stent. A brief literature review on the currents techniques of laparoscopic DJ placement is also presented.

Results

Analyzing the outcomes of 21 LUL, the "seagull" technique is time‐saving and safe. No perioperative complications were encountered. There is no risk of enlarging or tearing the ureterotomy and no need for patient replacement, extra cystoscopic or ureteroscopic procedures as well as of using modified guidewires and closed‐tip stents.

Conclusion

We described our step‐by‐step technique for DJ placement during LUL.
Impact of constipation on progression of Alzheimer's disease: A retrospective study
Authors: Nakase Taizen , Tatewaki Yasuko , Thyreau Benjamin , Mutoh Tatsushi , Tomita Naoki , Yamamoto Shuzo , Takano Yumi , Muranaka Michiho , Taki Yasuyuki
Published: August 2022

Background and Purpose

In terms of the gut‐brain axis, constipation has been considered to be an important factor of neurodegenerative diseases, although the exact mechanism is still controversial. Herein, we aimed to investigate the contribution of constipation to the progression of dementia in a retrospective study.

Methods

Patients of Alzheimer's disease(AD) and amnestic mild cognitive impairment were consecutively screened between January 2015 and December 2020, and those of whom brain MRI and neuropsychological tests were performed twice were enrolled in this study. Participants were classified into with constipation (Cons[+], n = 20) and without constipation (Cons[−], n = 64) groups. Laboratory data at the first visit were used. Regression analysis was performed in MMSE, ADAS‐Cog, and the volumes of hippocampus on MRI‐MPRAGE images and deep white matter lesions (DWMLs) on MRI‐FLAIR images obtained at two different time points.

Results

The main finding was that the Cons[+] group showed 2.7 times faster decline in cognitive impairment compared with the Cons[−] group, that is, the liner coefficients of ADAS‐Cog were 2.3544 points/year in the Cons[+] and 0.8592 points/year in the Cons[−] groups. Ancillary, changes of DWMLs showed significant correlation with the time span (p < 0.01), and the liner coefficients of DWMLs were 24.48 ml/year in the Cons[+] and 14.83 ml/year in the Cons[−] group, although annual rate of hippocampal atrophy was not different between the two groups. Moreover, serum homocysteine level at baseline was significantly higher in the Cons[+] group than Cons[−] group (14.6 ± 6.4 and 11.5 ± 4.2 nmol/ml, respectively: p = 0.03).

Conclusion

There is a significant correlation between constipation and faster progression of AD symptoms along with expansion of DWMLs.
Cognitive Science in a Nutshell
Authors: Mekik Can S. , Galang Carl Michael
Published: August 2022

We propose a novel characterization of the core of cognitive science as the study of how agents perform tasks, where agents and tasks are both broadly construed. We motivate the focus on agents and tasks through a discussion of their prevalence in cognitive science, their utility in identifying topics close to and distant from cognitive science, and their applicability to prominent issues in the field. We argue that our proposal clearly and succinctly highlights the distinctive characteristics of cognitive science and simultaneously motivates its interdisciplinary approach without losing sight of its roots in the study of information processing and cognitive representations.
Study of fatigue crack growth characteristics of TIG welded AZ31B magnesium alloy joint based on laser bionic treatment
Authors: Shi Haifang , Zhang Zhengqiang , Sui Qi , Wang Xuelei , Ren Xin , Wu Chun , Zhuang Weibin , Meng Chao
Published: August 2022

It is crucial to obtain better fatigue property for the safe application of materials, while nature provides new structural design ideas for effectively improving fatigue property. In this study, a “soft‐hard” alternating bionic structure was fabricated on the surface of TIG welded AZ31B Mg alloy joints by laser bionic treatment (LBT). Microstructure of welded joints was tailored by LBT, resulting in fine equiaxed grains with random orientations and increased microhardness. The fatigue crack growth threshold of the welded joints with bionic structure is increased by more than 40%, and crack growth rate was lower. LBT could significantly affect crack growth behavior and presented obvious crack deflection, resulting in a rougher fracture surface and more second cracks and branches. LBT significantly improved the fatigue crack growth resistance, inducing a series of strengthening mechanisms. The present work opens a new alternative to improve the fatigue properties of welded joints.
Asset pricing with a financial sector
Authors: Li Kai , Xu Chenjie
Published: August 2022

In this paper, we study the quantitative asset pricing implications of a financial intermediary that faces a leverage constraint. We use a recursive method to construct the global solution that accounts for occasionally binding constraints. Quantitatively, our model generates a high and countercyclical equity premium, a low and smooth risk‐free interest rate, and a procyclical and persistent price–dividend ratio, despite an independently and identically distributed consumption growth process and a moderate risk aversion of 10. As a distinct prediction from our model, we find that when the intermediary is financially constrained, the interest rate spread between interbank and household loans spikes. This pattern is consistent with the empirical evidence that high TED spread coincides with low stock price and high stock market volatility.
Optimized utilization of Salix—Perspectives for the genetic improvement toward sustainable biofuel value chains
Authors: Rönnberg‐Wästljung Ann Christin , Dufour Louis , Gao Jie , Hansson Per‐Anders , Herrmann Anke , Jebrane Mohamed , Johansson Ann‐Christine , Kalita Saurav , Molinder Roger , Nordh Nils‐Erik , Ohlsson Jonas A. , Passoth Volkmar , Sandgren Mats , Schnürer Anna , Shi Andong , Terziev Nasko , Daniel Geoffrey , Weih Martin
Published: August 2022

Bioenergy will be one of the most important renewable energy sources in the conversion from fossil fuels to bio‐based products. Short rotation coppice Salix could be a key player in this conversion since Salix has rapid growth, positive energy balance, easy to manage cultivation system with vegetative propagation of plant material and multiple harvests from the same plantation. The aim of the present paper is to provide an overview of the main challenges and key issues in willow genetic improvement toward sustainable biofuel value chains. Primarily based on results from the research project “Optimized Utilization of Salix” (OPTUS), the influence of Salix wood quality on the potential for biofuel use is discussed, followed by issues related to the conversion of Salix biomass into liquid and gaseous transportation fuels. Thereafter, the studies address genotypic influence on soil carbon sequestration in Salix plantations, as well as on soil carbon dynamics and climate change impacts. Finally, the opportunities for plant breeding are discussed using willow as a resource for sustainable biofuel production. Substantial phenotypic and genotypic variation was reported for different wood quality traits important in biological (i.e., enzymatic and anaerobic) and thermochemical conversion processes, which is a prerequisite for plant breeding. Furthermore, different Salix genotypes can affect soil carbon sequestration variably, and life cycle assessment illustrates that these differences can result in different climate mitigation potential depending on genotype. Thus, the potential of Salix plantations for sustainable biomass production and its conversion into biofuels is shown. Large genetic variation in various wood and biomass traits, important for different conversion processes and carbon sequestration, provides opportunities to enhance the sustainability of the production system via plant breeding. This includes new breeding targets in addition to traditional targets for high yield to improve biomass quality and carbon sequestration potential.
Subjective cognitive complaints and dental clinic visits: A cross‐sectional study from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study
Authors: Yamamoto‐Kuramoto Kinumi , Kiuchi Sakura , Kusama Taro , Kondo Katsunori , Takeuchi Kenji , Osaka Ken , Aida Jun
Published: August 2022

Aim

We investigated the association between subjective cognitive complaints (SCCs) and dental visits in older Japanese adults.

Methods

This was a cross‐sectional study from the Japan Gerontological Evaluation Study (carried out in 2019). The participants were independent older adults aged ≥65 years without dementia. The presence/absence of dental treatment visits and dental checkup visits within the past 12 months were used as outcome variables. The SCC score measured using the Kihon Checklist was set as the explanatory variable. Possible confounders were also included as covariates. Prevalence ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using a Poisson regression model.

Results

The mean age was 74.1 years (standard deviation 6.0 years). Among the 19 677 eligible participants, 12 359 (62.8%) had dental treatment visits and 11 063 (56.3%) had dental checkup visits. Of these, 5966 (30.3%) had an SCC score of ≥1. The proportion of participants with dental treatment and dental checkup visits within the past 12 months was 63.2% and 56.7% among those with SCC score = 0, and 52.8% and 35.2% among those with SCC score = 3, respectively. In the fully adjusted model, no significant association was observed for participants with SCC scores of 1 and 2. Those with SCC score = 3 had less frequent dental checkup visits (prevalence ratio 0.74, 95% confidence interval 0.57–0.95).

Conclusions

Our study highlights that SCC was not associated with limited access to dental care among those with mild SCC. However, those with the highest SCC score seemed to have disturbed access to dental care. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 773–778.
The evolutionary patterns of intercity co‐invention networks in the Greater Pearl River Delta, China: A comparative analysis based on the technological intensity of industry
Authors: Chong Zhao‐hui , Liu Jia
Published: August 2022

A substantial amount of research has examined the collaborations within technology‐based industries, but how technological intensity relates to the evolution of interregional research collaboration is less well understood. This paper investigates the dynamic changes of spatial structure and determinants of intercity research collaborations in the sectoral innovation networks of high‐tech industries contrasting to low and medium technology (LMT) industries in the Greater Pearl River Delta (GPRD), China. Using the sectoral patent application data over the period 2008–2016, the social network analysis results confirm a higher level of triangles in the co‐invention network of high‐tech industries than within LMT industries. Moreover, the empirical results through Exponential Random Graph Model (ERGM) show that, compared to LMT industries, collaboration in the co‐invention network of high‐tech industries is less sensitive to geographical and linguistic distance, while more subject to economic distance, regional educational level and government support with time. In addition, cognitive proximity and regional R&D intensity are both important prerequisite in the formation of these two collaborative networks.
Institutional varieties, governance quality, and firm‐level innovation in emerging economies: Case of India
Authors: Persaud Ajax , Zare Javid
Published: August 2022

This study examines how institutional varieties at the subnational (state) level influence firm‐level innovation in an emerging economy—India. Knowledge of how institutional varieties influence firm‐level innovation is derived principally from country‐level studies involving multiple developed countries. Research on emerging economies is sparse and tends to follow country‐level approaches involving multiple countries. Research involving asingleemerging economy where there are substantial institutional varieties between regions is thin. The institutional varieties of some emerging countries are so striking that they can be viewed as several countries within a country, for example, India, China. This study contributes to the innovation literature on the role of institutional varieties on firm‐level innovation by focusing on a different level of analysis—a single, emerging economy with substantial institutional varieties across the different states of India. Innovation in emerging economies is a topic of increasing academic interest. A multilevel study involving regional‐ and firm‐level factors is employed. Firm‐level data are from the World Bank Enterprise Survey and regional‐level data are from statistical agencies in India. The results confirm that institutional varieties have major impacts on firm‐level innovation. The research, policy, and managerial implications are discussed.
Switching from standard to extended half‐life FVIII prophylaxis in haemophilia A: Comparison of factor product use, bleed rates and pharmacokinetics
Authors: Nummi Vuokko , Lehtinen Anna‐Elina , Iorio Alfonso , Szanto Timea , Lassila Riitta
Published: August 2022

Introduction

Majority of haemophilia A patients in our comprehensive care centre have switched from standard half‐life (SHL) to extended half‐life (EHL) FVIII products in a short time.

Aim

We compared the clinical and laboratory outcomes between SHL and EHL FVIII prophylaxis in product switchers.

Methods

This is a retrospective inception cohort of all adult haemophilia A patients switched to EHL (rFVIIIFc or rFVIII‐PEG) prophylaxis in our centre. Dosing, product utilization, annualized bleed rates (ABR), treatment regimen and pharmacokinetics by Web Accessible Population Pharmacokinetic Service (WAPPS)‐Hemo were compared between SHL and EHL.

Results

We included 38 patients, whose median age was 38 years (range 17–75). Median FVIII dose was 23 IU/kg for SHL versus 25 IU/kg for EHL. After switching, weekly infusions decreased by 29% from median 2.8 (every 2.5 days) to 2.0 (every 3.5 days) (P = <.001) and factor consumption for prophylaxis by 17% from 60 to 50 IU/kg/week (P = <.001). Weekly infusions decreased in 71% and FVIII utilization in 55% of patients. ABR remained low (1.0 for SHL and .5 for EHL, respectively). In pharmacokinetics, the half‐life of FVIII increased from median 13 to 21 h after switching. Times above .01 and .03 IU/ml improved from 85 to 131 h and from 65 to 106 h. Half‐lives of the SHL products and von Willebrand factor levels predicted half‐lives with the EHL products.

Conclusions

Our cohort study confirms the successful experience of switching to EHL FVIII products, with decreased infusion frequency, factor consumption and excellent clinical efficacy.
Antibiotic resistance status of helicobacter pylori strains isolated from initial eradication patients in Ningbo, China, from 2017 to 2021
Authors: Shao Yongfu , Lin Yifan , Wang Bojun , Miao Min , Ye Guoliang
Published: August 2022

Background

Resistance of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) to antibiotics is an evolving and dynamic process. Presence of antibiotic resistance impacts the success rate of initial eradication strategies in the clinic.

Aim

To improve the success rate of initial eradication therapy and explore new antibiotic regimens, a large sample‐based study utilizing antimicrobial susceptibility testing was performed. A total of 2508 H. pylori strains from patients subjected to initial eradication therapy were isolated, cultured, and tested for drug susceptibility from 2017 to 2021. The minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC) was recorded. H. pylori susceptibility profiles and its change trends from initial eradication patients were analyzed. The relationships between drug resistance, year of sample collection, age, and sex of patients were analyzed.

Results

The overall resistance rates were as follows: amoxicillin (9.25%), clarithromycin (38.48%), levofloxacin (42.86%), furazolidone (11.28%), doxycycline (8.56%), rifampicin (10.81%), tinidazole (74.32%), gatifloxacin (61.71%), tetracycline (0%), metronidazole (78.71%), ornidazole (97.87%), and fosfomycin (31.67%). Only 38.04% of the strains were pansusceptible to amoxicillin, clarithromycin, levofloxacin, and furazolidone, followed by those of mono resistance (29.90%), double resistance (24.96%), triple resistance (6.34%), and quadruple resistance (0.76%). Significant differences in the resistance rate and MIC were also observed in different age and sex groups. Time of collection and patient age and sex were associated with the distribution of antibiotic resistance.

Conclusion

With the increasing resistance rate and multiple resistance of H. pylori to commonly used antibiotics, drug susceptibility testing is imperative to permit individualized therapy, and a regimen containing the combination of amoxicillin, furazolidone, tetracycline, doxycycline, or rifampicin is reasonable for initial empirical eradication therapy.
Helicobacter pyloriresults in lysis and death after exposure to water
Authors: Inamasu Yoshinori , Ogawa Midori , Saito Mitsumasa , Harada Masaru , Fukuda Kazumasa
Published: August 2022

Background

Helicobacter pylorihas a high infection rate, and it is possible that more than half of the world's population is infected. The route of transmission ofH. pylorihas not been completely elucidated yet. The coccoid form ofH. pyloriis generally considered to be in a VBNC (viable but nonculturable) state, and this form in the environment is thought to play an important role in infection and transmission, but its stability and survivability are still unknown.

Materials and methods

In order to promote its changing to coccoid form, the spiral form ofH. pylorigrown in a culture medium was exposed to sterile distilled water, and we investigated the bacterial cell number and the morphological changes by using fluorescence staining methods and electron microscopic observation. We also examined the dynamics of its growth ability by measuring the colony forming unit on an agar‐plate medium.

Results

After exposure to sterile distilled water, theH. pylorispiral form rapidly lost its growth ability at 37°C. One day after exposure, approximately 95% of the spiral form disappeared and the proportion of the coccoid form increased. The total number of bacteria also decreased to less than half and continued to decrease over time. Epi‐microscopic and electron microscopic observations revealed that deformation of bacterial cells, collapse, and leaking out of cell contents were promoted in exposure to sterile distilled water.

Conclusion

Helicobacter pyloriquickly begins to transform into the coccoid form after exposure to sterile distilled water, rapidly loses its growth ability, and then lyses and dies. Water‐exposure is lethal forH. pyloriand it is unlikely to survive in the VBNC state in water.