bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving decision making through visual knowledge calibration
Authors: Muntwiler Christian , Eppler Martin J.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This article aims to explore the so-called illusion of explanatory depth (IOED) of managers regarding their understanding of digital technologies and examines the effect of knowledge visualization one’s current understanding and decision making. Its purpose is to show that managers think they know more than they do and that this affects decision making but can be reduced through knowledge visualization.

Design/methodology/approach

In two experiments with experienced managers, the authors investigate the size and impact of the IOED bias in decision making and examine if sketched self-explanations are as effective as written self-explanations to reduce the bias.

Findings

The findings show that experienced managers suffer from a significant illusion concerning their explanatory understanding of digital technologies and that sketching one’s current level of explanatory understanding of these technologies supports the accurate calibration of one’s knowledge. The findings indicate that sketching knowledge is a helpful modality for the detection and subsequent recalibration of biased knowledge in domain-dependent decision making.

Originality/value

This article is the first to explore the effect of sketched knowledge externalization on the calibration of explanatory knowledge of managers. It extends the literature on both, the IOED and on knowledge visualization as an instrument of knowledge calibration.
Managing TQM's soft side: an explorative study of social care multiservice organizations
Authors: Capolupo Nicola , Virglerová Zuzana , Adinolfi Paola
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper explores total quality management (TQM) soft domain efficacy in social care organizations to determine the extent to which an organization's project success may stem from soft TQM critical success factors (CSFs).

Design/methodology/approach

Non-structured interviews were conducted with 16 managers overseeing the prosthetic device regeneration project of the Italian local health unit (located in Salerno) to explore which soft factors could contribute to the success of a social care multifunctional organization.

Findings

Organizations' handling of certain projects, such as pivoting on soft TQM issues, may allow them to be configured as multiservice organizations. Therefore, a conceptual model of a multiservice social care organization is proposed.

Practical implications

From a managerial perspective, this study presents an interesting success case of a multiservice social care organization with a total annual expenditure of €20 million on prosthetic assistance. Preliminary data show a 13% reduction in public expenditure for Salerno's local health unit via a refurbishment project.

Originality/value

The paper contributes to the soft TQM literature debate: although Italian local health professionals appear aware of soft TQM issues' implementation and consciously apply them in their organization and projects, this occurs more with specific CSFs emerging from the literature. Therefore, this article paves the way for further quantitative and theoretical investigations on the adoption of TQM soft issues in social care organizations' performance measurement.
An integrated learning framework of corporate training system: a grounded theory approach
Authors: Barile Sergio , Ciasullo Maria Vincenza , Testa Mario , La Sala Antonio
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Rooting in the literature on training and laying on Kirkpatrick model, this paper aims to explore key drivers of corporate training to identify how they can be combined into an integrated framework of learning for human capital development.

Design/methodology/approach

By adopting the constructivist grounded theory, this contribution analyzes the experience carried out in the last ten years by Virvelle, an Italian corporate training firm.

Findings

Results show the rise of five core categories, g1iving rise to an integrated model of Kirkpatrick. Their dynamic interplay led to a new orientation of Kirkpatrick model giving rise to a metalearning ecosystem.

Research limitations/implications

Managerial implications have identified key factors on which building and implementing appropriate corporate training programmes capable of triggering co-generative processes of value creation. Particularly, the essential role of learning quality culture, digital technology and personalization are detected in integrating not only hard but furthermore soft shades of learning. Concerning theoretical implications, the emergence of key structural and systems enabling dimensions for learning, and contextual mechanisms involved in reshaping training effectiveness and achieving integrated learning outcomes are detected. The main limitation of this study lies in the need to generalize results: the conceptualized framework needs to be empirically tested.

Originality/value

The value of this research is built along three main points. The first is the integration among the core categories that an integrated learning system can be built on, promoting learning quality culture through positive feedback loops. The second is represented by the chance to enhance an integrated mutual knowledge development among engaged actors, thereby shaping a more holistic and multidimensional learning model. The third is related to the transversal role that digital technology plays in all phases of the training process as it integrates and enriches them.
Predictive value of CXCL10 for the occurrence of immune‐related adverse events in patient with renal cell carcinoma
Authors: Miura Yuji , Motoshima Takanobu , Anami Toshiki , Yano Hiromu , Mito Remi , Pan Cheng , Urakami Shinji , Kinowaki Keiichi , Tsukamoto Hirotake , Kurahashi Ryoma , Murakami Yoji , Yatsuda Junji , Fujiwara Yukio , Kamba Tomomi , Komohara Yoshihiro
Published: March 2023

Immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) have recently improved the prognosis of various cancers. By contrast, some immune‐related adverse events (irAEs) caused by ICIs are fatal and have become problematic. The pathogenesis of irAEs remains unknown and must be elucidated to establish biomarkers. This study investigated plasma cytokine, chemokine, and anti‐CD74 autoantibody levels in patients with renal cell carcinoma (RCC) and analyzed their association with irAEs. In a discovery cohort of 13 patients, plasma levels of chemokine (C–X–C motif) ligand (CXCL) 1, IL‐17A, IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, CXCL10, MCP‐1, and TNFα were measured at baseline and post–dose 1. Only CXCL10, at post–dose 1 but not at baseline, was significantly associated with grade 2 or higher irAEs (P = 0.0413). Plasma CXCL10 levels were then measured at baseline and post–dose 1 in an extended cohort of 43 patients with RCC who received ICI‐based treatment. Higher plasma CXCL10 levels both at baseline and post–dose1 were significantly associated with the occurrence of grade 2 or higher irAEs (P = 0.0246 and 0.0137, respectively). Plasma CXCL13 levels, which we measured in a previous study, were significantly higher in patients with grade 2 or higher irAEs at baseline but not at post–dose 1 (P = 0.0037 and 0.052, respectively). No significant association between plasma anti‐CD74 autoantibody level and both irAE pneumonitis and any grade 2 or higher irAE was observed. In conclusion, plasma CXCL10 is significantly associated with the occurrence of irAEs in patients with RCC treated with ICIs. CXCL10 is a potential predictive and on‐treatment biomarker for irAEs.
The effectiveness of weather index insurance in managing mariculture production risk
Authors: Qiang Mengmeng , Shen Manhong , Xia Guanjun
Published: March 2023

Mariculture is a high‐risk industry that is susceptible to weather disasters. However, due to moral hazard, adverse selection and high transaction costs, traditional indemnity insurance policies are not available. An emerging alternative is the development of weather index mariculture insurance. This research assesses the effectiveness of weather index mariculture insurance by using the swimming crab precipitation index insurance as an example. The theoretical and empirical results suggest that weather index mariculture insurance is not always effective. It cannot be guaranteed to promote the welfare of mariculturists and reduce the tail risk of income, especially in the case of gross rates. However, in the case of low basis risk, it could be a viable option for the government because of the low subsidy cost required.
ON URBAN RE‐ARRANGEMENTS: A Suite in Five Movements
Authors:   The Re‐Arrangements Collective, Cante Fabien , Hussain Ajmal , Makori Timo , Mohamed Surer Qassim , Osbourne Alana , Pilo’ Francesca , Ramakrishnan Kavita , Simone AbdouMaliq , Sitas Rike , Suhail Adeem
Published: March 2023

This movement introduces the ethos of the collective project: its conceptual and practical preoccupations. It focuses on our concern with urban processes on the cusp of change, in the midst of being re‐arranged, and thus homes in on the various polyrhythms of intersections, how things come together and diverge, how possibilities open and close in urban contexts of continuously shifting horizons.
A combination of acidic electrolyzed water with modified atmosphere packaging improves quality of jujube during cold storage by enhancing antioxidant activity
Authors: Li Yan , Jia Lili , Liu Guishan , He Jianguo , Li Yue , Zhang Yuanlv , Ma Haiyang
Published: March 2023

This study aimed to investigate the effects of a combination of acidic electrolyzed water (AEW) and modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) on the quality of jujube stored at 1 ± 0.5°C for 40 days. Jujube was treated with AEW + MAP, AEW, and MAP, respectively, to identify an appropriate preservation method based on the changes of quality indicators, activities of antioxidant enzymes and nonenzymatic antioxidant systems, malondialdehyde (MDA) content, and cell membrane permeability. Results showed that the combined treatment maintained higher storage quality of jujube than the other three treatments. The combined treatment significantly suppressed softening, weight, and color loss and maintained total soluble solid and titratable acidity. Moreover, the combined treatment improved antioxidant capacity showing high levels of nonenzymatic antioxidant systems (ascorbic acid and 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl radical scavenging capacity), and the activities of antioxidant enzymes (ascorbate peroxidase, superoxide dismutase, and catalase). These effects remarkably suppressed the increase of MDA level and cell membrane permeability, thereby inhibiting oxidative damage and alleviating quality deterioration. Furthermore, kinetic model indicated that AEW + MAP decreased rate constant of quality deterioration. Principal component analysis also showed that AEW + MAP treatment alleviated quality deterioration, with higher comprehensive score than other treatments. In summary, AEW + MAP was an effective preservation method to maintain storage quality and delay postharvest senescence of jujube.

Practical Application

In this study, a combination of acidic electrolyzed water (AEW) with modified atmosphere packaging (MAP) has been found to have effective preservation effects on jujube. AEW + MAP treatment improved quality of jujube during cold storage mainly by enhancing antioxidant capacity. The combined treatment may provide a new preservation technology for jujube.
MPO‐ANCA‐positive granulomatosis with polyangiitis and concurrent IgG4‐related disease with periaortitis and tubulointerstitial nephritis: A case report of a new overlap syndrome?
Authors: Kuske Luise , Khalifa Abedalrazag , Wibisono Alexander , Bräsen Jan Hinrich , Witte Torsten
Published: March 2023

Immunoglobulin G4‐related disease (IgG4‐RD) is a fibroinflammatory condition that was first recognized as a unique disease entity in the early 2000s. Its diagnosis is based on specific pathologic, serologic, and clinical features, and the exclusion of several differential diagnoses, such antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)‐associated vasculitis (AAV). However, emerging evidence suggests that these 2 conditions may overlap in some cases. Here, we report a new case of overlapping IgG4‐RD and AAV. The patient was diagnosed with IgG4‐RD owing to the presence of periaortitis and IgG4 positive tubulointerstitial nephritis. Myeloperoxidase (MPO)‐ANCA positivity, chronic paranasal sinusitis, and glomerulonephritis with granuloma led to a concurrent diagnosis of MPO‐ANCA‐positive granulomatosis with polyangiitis. Our case supports the hypothesis that diagnoses of IgG4‐RD and AAV are not mutually exclusive but can overlap. It can be assumed that an overlap with IgG4‐RD typically affects the granulomatous form of AAV, suggesting a common pathophysiological pathway for these 2 conditions.
The assessment of rheumatoid factor levels and hemogram parameters as predictors for rheumatologic disease
Authors: Limon Muhammet
Published: March 2023

Aim

Many markers are used for clinical diagnosis in rheumatic diseases; rheumatoid factor (RF) is the most frequently used marker. However, RF is not specific to rheumatoid arthritis (RA). RF positivity is widely observed in patients with advanced age, infectious, autoimmune, and lymphoproliferative diseases. In this context, the objective of this study is to investigate the demographic characteristics, frequency of antinuclear antibody (ANA) and anti‐cyclic citrullinated peptide (anti‐CCP) positivity, hemogram parameters and distribution of the diagnoses in RF‐positive patients followed at the rheumatology clinic.

Methods

The population of this retrospective study consisted of patients above 18 years of age who were referred to have RF positivity by nephelometric method at Kahramanmaraş Necip Fazıl City Hospital Rheumatology Clinic between January 2020 and June 2022.

Results

The mean age of the 230 patients with a positive RF test result, 155 (76%) male and 55 (24%) female, was 52.7 ± 15.5 years. There were 81 (35.2%), 54 (23.5%), 73 (31.7%) and 22 (9.6%) patients with RF levels between 20 and 50 IU/mL, 50 and 100 IU/mL, 100 and 500 IU/mL, and above 500 IU/mL, respectively. There was no significant difference detected between the groups that were created based on the RF titers regarding demographic characteristics (P > 0.05). The rate of being diagnosed with any rheumatic disease was significantly lower in the group with RF levels between 20 and 50 IU/mL compared to other groups (P = 0.001). The distribution of rheumatic and non‐rheumatic disease diagnoses according to RF levels did not reveal any significant difference between the groups (P = 0.369 and P = 0.147, respectively). RA was the most common (62.2%) rheumatic disease diagnosis among the patients included in the study. The leukocyte count was significantly higher in the group with RF levels above 500 IU/mL compared to the group with RF levels between 20 and 50 IU/mL (P = 0.024). There was no significant difference between the groups in other laboratory results, that is, hemogram, sedimentation, C‐reactive protein, platelet, and lymphocyte/monocyte ratio (P > 0.05).

Conclusion

The study findings indicate that RF positivity can be seen in the context of different rheumatological diseases; hence RF levels alone may not predict rheumatological disease. There was also no significant relationship between RF levels and ANA and anti‐CCP positivity. The most common diagnosis in patients presenting with elevated RF levels was RA. Nevertheless, it should be noted that RF can be found asymptomatically in the general population.
Comparing estimates of census and effective population size in an endangered amphibian
Authors: Brooks G. C. , Wendt A. , Haas C. A. , Roberts J. H.
Published: March 2023

The field of conservation has seen a shift in focus from monitoring trends in census population size to trends in ‘effective’ population size. Numerous genetic methods exist for estimating effective population size, resulting in uncertainty among conservation practitioners as to which methods are most appropriate when conducting population assessments or evaluating recovery efforts. Demographic approaches offer a promising avenue to provide a link between census and effective population size using life‐history information, but rarely do studies have all three sources of data (genetic, demographic, life history) necessary to perform an explicit evaluation of their performance. Using data from a long‐term study of reticulated flatwoods salamanders (Ambystoma bishopi) in western Florida, USA, we assessed the magnitude of temporal variation in census population sizes and the effective number of breeders of two breeding populations to (1) document changes in the number of breeding adults over the 9‐year study duration, (2) determine whether and provide similar information about population size and trends and (3) compare alternative demographic and genetic approaches for estimating . We found that genetic estimates of , particularly if averaged across multiple estimation methods, closely tracked spatiotemporal variation in . Demographic estimates of also closely tracked but were sensitive to the assumed variance in reproductive success. In the absence of genetic information, detailed knowledge of mating systems and the environmental factors that skew reproductive contributions appear necessary for demographic to reliably inform management decisions. In these populations, appears too small (<40 individuals) to confer long‐term genetic resilience, highlighting the importance of restoring landscape connectivity and indicating that caution must be taken when sourcing animals for reintroduction efforts. More generally, our study reveals insights into the utility of alternative estimation methods in guiding recovery efforts of threatened and endangered species.
Effects of water stress on plant volatile emission and insect oviposition preference in an agroecosystem
Authors: Sun Yan , Zhu Xuewei , Sui Li , Zhu Ziqiu , Ren Bingzhong , Pan Duofeng , Wan Ho Yi , Zhu Hui
Published: March 2023

Drought has become more common and severe in many parts of the world due to climate change. The effect of water stress on insect oviposition preference that is key determinant for their fitness has received less attention.

Here, we examined how water stress may affect oviposition selection of Ostrinia furnacalis for maize plants in the greenhouse, and tested difference in volatile compounds emitted from treated maize, and electronantennogram and bioassay responses of O. furnacalis to the volatile profiles in maize plants.

Ostrinia furnacalis were more prone to lay eggs on the well‐watered maize. Most plant volatile compounds differed significantly among the three water treatments, including increased emissions of β‐caryophyllene, (E)‐2‐hexenal, and linalool, and decreased emission of (Z)‐3‐hexen‐1‐ol when subjected to increasing intensity of drought.

Varied volatile profiles of maize may drive oviposition decision of O. furnacalis, because O. furnacalis showed a clear oviposition preference for (Z)‐3‐hexen‐1‐ol, while not for β‐caryophyllene, (E)‐2‐hexenal, and linalool, at the concentration of 1000 ppm.

This study advances understanding of drought effects on plant–insect interactions through volatile profiles. Our finding calls for attention to oviposition selection for insect pest management in agricultural settings, especially in regions under changing precipitation patterns.
Digital screening and brief intervention for alcohol misuse in college students: A pilot, mixed‐methods, cluster randomized controlled trial from a low‐resourced setting
Authors: Ghosh Abhishek , Krishnan Narayanan C. , Kathirvel Soundappan , Pillai Renjith R. , Basu Debasish , George Blessy B. , P. V. Aswathy , Sharma Kshitiz , Kumar Anil
Published: March 2023

Introduction

We examined the feasibility and acceptability of digital screening and brief intervention (d‐SBI) for alcohol misuse in college students; the effectiveness of d‐SBI was our secondary outcome. We also explored the barriers and facilitators of d‐SBI.

Methods

The study design is a mixed‐methods, pilot, and cluster randomized trial. Five colleges from a northern city in India were randomly allocated to d‐SBI and control groups. One hundred and ninety‐one students were screened, and 25 (male = 23 and female = 2) participants (age 19.62 ± 2.58 years) fulfilled eligibility. All participants completed follow‐up assessments at 3 months. In‐depth interviews were done with 11 participants. Alcohol Use Disorder Identification Test (AUDIT) based screening brief intervention was provided on a web portal‐ or mobile application in the d‐SBI group. The control group received digital screening and brief education. Direct questions and usage statistics assessed the measurement acceptability of the intervention. We compared the change in AUDIT scores in the intervention groups over 3 months post‐intervention. Thematic analyses of transcripts of interviews were done by inductive coding.

Results

Most participants reported that d‐SBI was user‐friendly (80%), advice was appropriate (80%), and perceived it to be useful (72%). Ninety‐six percent of users, who logged in, completed screening. There was a significant decrease in AUDIT scores both in d‐SBI (p < .001) and control groups (p < .001). Time and group significantly affected the mean AUDIT score, but time × group interaction was non‐significant. Thematic analysis revealed six overarching themes.

Conclusions

Digital SBI for alcohol misuse is acceptable, feasible, and possibly effective among college students from low‐resource settings.
Clinical significance and impact of gastric non‐Helicobacter pylori Helicobacter species in gastric disease
Authors: Taillieu Emily , De Witte Chloë , De Schepper Heiko , Van Moerkercke Wouter , Rutten Sophie , Michiels Stijn , Arnst Yuna , De Bruyckere Sofie , Francque Sven , van Aert Frauke , George Christophe , Callewaert Emma , Callewaert Tiene , Vanneste Glenn , Vanderstraeten Erik , Van Heddegem Nina , Vansteelant Margaux , Chiers Koen , Haesebrouck Freddy , Van Steenkiste Christophe
Published: March 2023

Background

Gastric non‐Helicobacter pylori Helicobacter (NHPH) species naturally associated with animals have been linked with gastric disease in human patients.

Aim

The prevalence and clinical significance of zoonotic gastric NHPHs was determined in large and well‐defined, H. pylori‐negative, gastric patient populations.

Methods

Patients were retrospectively (n = 464) and prospectively (n = 65) included for gastric biopsy collection: chronic gastritis (CG), peptic ulcer disease and gastric MALT lymphoma, without identified aetiology. PCR and sequencing was performed for the detection of gastric Helicobacter species. Retrospectively, asymptomatic gastric bypass patients (n = 38) were included as controls. Prospectively, additional saliva samples and symptom and risk factor questionnaires were collected. In this group, patients with gastric NHPH infection were administered standard H. pylori eradication therapy and underwent follow‐up gastroscopy post‐therapy.

Results

In the retrospective samples, the prevalence of gastric NHPHs was 29.1%, while no gastric NHPHs were detected in control biopsies. In the prospective cohort, a similar proportion tested positive: 27.7% in gastric tissue and 20.6% in saliva. The sensitivity and accuracy for the detection of gastric NHPHs in saliva compared to gastric tissue was 27.8% and 69.8% respectively. Following eradication therapy, clinical remission was registered in 12 of 17 patients, histological remission in seven of nine and eradication in four of eight patients.

Conclusion

These findings suggest a pathophysiological involvement of NHPHs in gastric disease. Patients presenting with gastric complaints may benefit from routine PCR testing for zoonotic gastric NHPHs.
Mic60 is essential to maintain mitochondrial integrity and to prevent encephalomyopathy
Authors: Dong Tingting , Zhang Zai‐Qiang , Sun Li‐Hong , Zhang Weilong , Zhu Zhaohui , Lin Lin , Yang Lin , Lv An , Liu Chunying , Li Qing , Yang Rui‐Feng , Zhang Xiuru , Niu Yamei , Chen Hou‐Zao , Liu De‐Pei , Tong Wei‐Min
Published: March 2023

Mitochondrial encephalomyopathies (ME) are frequently associated with mutations of mitochondrial DNA, but the pathogenesis of a subset of ME (sME) remains elusive. Here we report that haploinsufficiency of a mitochondrial inner membrane protein, Mic60, causes progressive neurological abnormalities with insulted mitochondrial structure and neuronal loss in mice. In addition, haploinsufficiency of Mic60 reduces mitochondrial membrane potential and cellular ATP production, increases reactive oxygen species, and alters mitochondrial oxidative phosphorylation complexes in neurons in an age‐dependent manner. Moreover, haploinsufficiency of Mic60 compromises brain glucose intake and oxygen consumption in mice, resembling human ME syndrome. We further discover that MIC60 protein expression declined significantly in human sME, implying that insufficient MIC60 may contribute for pathogenesis of human ME. Notably, systemic administration of antioxidant N‐acetylcysteine largely reverses mitochondrial dysfunctions and metabolic disorders in haplo‐insufficient Mic60 mice, also restores neurological abnormal symptom. These results reveal Mic60 is required in the maintenance of mitochondrial integrity and function, and likely a potential therapeutics target for mitochondrial encephalomyopathies.
How entrepreneurial practices balance art and business: Insights into creative entrepreneurship in the European film industry
Authors: Pisotska Viktoriya , Gurses Kerem
Published: March 2023

Relying on the literature on tensions and contradictions and the theory of practice, coupled with the literature on creative industries, this study uncovers how creative entrepreneurs balance the tension between art and business and respond to other challenges of creative entrepreneurship. The multiple case studies method is adopted by examining founders, cofounders and main employees of European film production companies. We reveal the perception of creative entrepreneurs towards the relationship between art and business. We explore different organizational and industry‐level challenges experienced by creative entrepreneurs and uncover the organizational practices they adopt to deal with the identified challenges. The research contributes to the phenomenon of creative entrepreneurship by introducing the practice perspective, to the literature on paradox and contradiction by exploring the micro‐foundations of tensions and paradox responses in high‐intensity situations and to practice‐based studies by investigating a domain‐specific practice theory and highlighting the agency of creative entrepreneurs in adapting practices necessary to deal with conflicting demands of creative entrepreneurship.
Active sensitization to dimethylthiocarbamylbenzothiazol sulphide: An unexpectedly strong rubber contact allergen
Authors: Isaksson Marléne , Bergendorff Ola , Hamnerius Nils , Pontén Ann , Svedman Cecilia , Hauksson Inese , Bruze Magnus
Published: March 2023

Background

The two dialkylthiocarbamyl benzothiazole sulphides, dimethyl‐thiocarbamylbenzothiazole sulphide (DMTBS) and diethylthio‐carbamylbenzothiazole sulphide (DETBS) were shown to be good markers of both thiuram and mercaptobenzothiazole sensitivity.

Objectives

To investigate if DMTBS and/or DETBS could be better markers of contact allergy to common rubber additives than the ones currently used.

Methods

Sixty‐eight dermatitis patients were patch tested with DMTBS and DETBS, both at 1% in petrolatum (pet). Because of late reactions in 10 patients, these were retested to DMTBS and DETBS in serial dilutions. Tetramethylthiuram monosulphide (TMTM) 1.0% pet was also tested.

Results

At the initial reading Days 3 and 7, no reactions were noted to DMTBS or DETBS. At retesting, 10 of the 68 (15%) patients reacted positively to lower concentrations of DMTBS than the initial test concentration. Seven of 8 also reacted to TMTM. Three of them had positive reactions to DEBTS. All 10 patients had reactions to more diluted solutions to DMBTS than to DEBTS (p = 0.0077; Mc‐Nemar test, two‐sided).

Conclusions

Results speak for patch test sensitization to DMTBS with cross‐reactivity to TMTM and also DEBTS. DMTBS and DEBTS could be new markers of rubber allergy but a safe test concentration must be found.
Bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells attenuate complete Freund's adjuvant‐induced inflammatory pain by inhibiting the expression of P2X3
Authors: Deng Yifan , Yuan Dongdong , Deng Zhizhao , Liang Jianfen , Zhang Zhenye , Hei Ziqing , Li Xiang
Published: March 2023

Bone marrow‐derived mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) show a good property for pain treatment by modulating inflammatory response. However, the underlying therapeutic effect and related mechanism of BMSCs on inflammatory pain remain unclear. Therefore, we explored the function and potential mechanism of BMSCs performing in a complete Freund's adjuvant (CFA)‐induced inflammatory pain model in this study. Here, BMSCs were injected into the CFA‐treated rats, and we used behavioural tests to evaluate the changes in hypersensitivity. High‐throughput sequencing was used to screen out the hub genes. Molecular biology experiments were performed to detect the level of P2X3 or inflammatory mediators in rats and observed the distribution of P2X3 in neural cells. Furthermore, the function of the P2X3 was explored via inhibitor and activator experiments. Finally, we found that BMSCs alleviated hyperalgesia and spinal levels of pro‐inflammatory factors in CFA‐treated rats. High‐throughput sequencing showed that P2X3 and P2X7 were identified as hub genes, and only the expression level of P2X3 was significantly down‐regulated after BMSCs treatment. Immunohistochemistry showed that P2X3 mainly colocalized with microglia and astrocytes. The levels of P2X3 and pro‐inflammatory factors were all significantly reduced after BMSC injection. Moreover, similar attenuation was found in the CFA‐treated rats after injecting the P2X3 inhibitor, and a P2X3 antagonist reversed the attenuation induced by the BMSCs. These findings suggest that BMSCs exerted a therapeutic effect on inflammatory pain by inhibiting the expression of P2X3 and the excessive production of inflammatory mediators was associated with an increased P2X3 level and BMSC therapy reverse these effects.
The value of folate receptor‐positive circulating tumor cells in the diagnosis of lung cancer and its correlation with clinical characteristics
Authors: Xu Yunjian , Li Qianjun , Lin Zhijian , Lin Yongping
Published: March 2023

Objective

The aim of this research is to investigate the feasibility of folate receptor‐positive circulating tumor cells (FR+CTCs) as a biomarker for the diagnosis of malignant pulmonary nodules and the correlation between clinicopathological factors and FR+CTC levels.

Methods

Patients initially diagnosed with one or more pulmonary nodules from a computed tomography scan were prospectively included. Three milliliters of peripheral blood was collected from each participant for FR+CTC analysis prior to surgery. Clinical and pathological parameters and FR+CTC levels were compared between patients with lung cancer and benign diseases.

Results

Six hundred fifty‐three patients had lung cancer and the other 124 had benign lung diseases based on pathological examinations of the resected specimens. The median FR+CTC value of the lung cancer group was 12.0 (95% CI 9.6–16.2) FU/3 mL and that of the benign group was 7.2 (95% CI 5.78–11.2) FU/3 mL. The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.0001). In a receiver operating characteristic analysis to distinguish the two groups, the area under curve of FR+CTC was 0.7457 (95% CI 0.6893–0.8021; P < 0.0001) using a cutoff of 8.65 FU/3 mL. The sensitivity was 86.37%, and the specificity was 74.19%. Combined with conventional serum tumor biomarkers, the area under curve was 0.922 (0.499–0.963). The sensitivity was 92.20%, and the specificity was 83.05%. FR+CTC levels were related to tumor staging (P4 < 0.001), the degree of tumor invasion both in single (P = 0.011) and multiple lesions (P = 0.022), pathological subtypes (P = 0.013), and maximum tumor diameter (P = 0.014).

Conclusions

FR+CTC is an effective and reliable biomarker for the diagnosis of lung cancer. Further, FR+CTC level is correlated with tumor staging, degree of invasion, pathological subtypes, and tumor size.
The Free Sign in morphea and other sclerosing disorders: A clue to the presence of early sclerosis?
Authors: Ortega‐Springall Maria Fernanda , Yang Sarah , Mitra Anupam , Fung Maxwell A.
Published: March 2023

Background

The Floating Sign is a histopathologic clue to the diagnosis of autoimmune sclerosing skin disorders such as morphea and interstitial granulomatous dermatitis (IGD). On the other hand, the “free‐floating” sign has been associated with neoplasms, for example, dermatofibroma and interstitial mycosis fungoides. Herein, we report the Free Sign in sclerosing skin disorders.

Methods

In a case‐control study, we applied detailed histopathologic definitions of Floating Sign and Free Sign to assess their presence in morphea, IGD, and other sclerosing disorders.

Results

Free Sign was present in most cases of morphea (46/55, 84%) and IGD (7/13, 54%) but not necrobiosis lipoidica (NL) (6/14, 42.8%) or sclerodermoid graft versus host disease (SGVHD) (2/7, 28.5%). The sensitivity and specificity of Free Sign for morphea versus other disorders was 84% and 56%, respectively. Floating Sign was not identified in most cases: NL (3/14, 21.4%), SGVHD (1/7, 14.2%), morphea (5/55, 9%), IGD (1/13, 7.7%). The diagnostic sensitivity of Floating Sign in morphea was 9%.

Conclusions

The Free Sign was present in most cases of morphea in our series and may represent a clue to the presence of evolving sclerosis. Free Sign may be seen in other sclerosing disorders. Technical artifact is a potential cause of a false‐positive Free Sign.
Women's alcohol consumption in the early parenting period and influences of socio‐demographic and domestic circumstances: A scoping review and narrative synthesis
Authors: Vicario Serena , Buykx Penny , Peacock Marian , Hardie Iain , De Freitas Loren , Bissell Paul , Meier Petra Sylvia
Published: March 2023

Issues

Numerous studies have explored alcohol consumption in pregnancy, but less is known about women's drinking in the early parenting period (EPP, 0–5 years after childbirth). We synthesise research related to three questions: (i) How are women's drinking patterns and trajectories associated with socio‐demographic and domestic circumstances?; (ii) What theoretical approaches are used to explain changes in consumption?; (iii) What meanings have been given to mothers' drinking?

Approach

Three databases (Ovid‐MEDLINE, Ovid‐PsycINFO and CINAHL) were systematically searched. Citation tracking was conducted in Web of Science Citation Index and Google Scholar. Eligible papers explored mothers' alcohol consumption during the EPP, focusing on general population rather than clinical samples. Studies were critically appraised and their characteristics, methods and key findings extracted. Thematic narrative synthesis of findings was conducted.

Key Findings

Fourteen quantitative and six qualitative studies were identified. The (sub)samples ranged from n = 77,137 to n = 21 women. Mothers' consumption levels were associated with older age, being White and employed, not being in a partnered relationship, higher education and income. Three theoretical approaches were employed to explain these consumption differences: social role, role deprivation, social practice theories. By drinking alcohol, mothers expressed numerous aspects of their identity (e.g., autonomous women and responsible mothers).

Implications and Conclusion

Alcohol‐related interventions and policies should consider demographic and cultural transformations of motherhood (e.g., delayed motherhood, changes in family structures). Mothers' drinking should be contextualised carefully in relation to socio‐economic circumstances and gender inequalities in unpaid labour. The focus on peer‐reviewed academic papers in English language may limit the evidence.
Selected genodermatoses – Status quo and future prospects
Authors: Frank Jorge , Has Cristina , Betz Regina C.
Published: March 2023

Genodermatoses are monogenetic disorders, which may manifest with symptoms either exclusively on the skin or also involve other organs in the context of an associated syndrome. Over the past 30 years, numerous hereditary hair, tumor, blistering, and keratinization diseases have been characterized both clinically and genetically. This has resulted in the continuous development of disease‐specific classifications as well as diagnostic algorithms and examination techniques, and has also led to new pathogenesis‐based therapeutic approaches. While the deciphering of the underlying genetic defects of these diseases is already well advanced, there is still much room for the development of new translationally motivated treatment strategies.
Biodiversity, biogeography, and connectivity of polychaetes in the world's largest marine minerals exploration frontier
Authors: Stewart Eva C. D. , Bribiesca‐Contreras Guadalupe , Taboada Sergi , Wiklund Helena , Ravara Ascensão , Pape Ellen , De Smet Bart , Neal Lenka , Cunha Marina R. , Jones Daniel O. B. , Smith Craig R. , Glover Adrian G. , Dahlgren Thomas G.
Published: March 2023

Aim

The abyssal Clarion‐Clipperton Zone (CCZ), Pacific Ocean, is an area of commercial importance owing to the growing interest in mining high‐grade polymetallic nodules at the seafloor for battery metals. Research into the spatial patterns of faunal diversity, composition, and population connectivity is needed to better understand the ecological impacts of potential resource extraction. Here, a DNA taxonomy approach is used to investigate regional‐scale patterns of taxonomic and phylogenetic alpha and beta diversity, and genetic connectivity, of the dominant macrofaunal group (annelids) across a 6 million km2 region of the abyssal seafloor.

Location

The abyssal seafloor (3932–5055 m depth) of the Clarion‐Clipperton Zone, equatorial Pacific Ocean.

Methods

We used a combination of new and published barcode data to study 1866 polychaete specimens using molecular species delimitation. Both phylogenetic and taxonomic alpha and beta diversity metrics were used to analyse spatial patterns of biodiversity. Connectivity analyses were based on haplotype distributions for a subset of the studied taxa.

Results

DNA taxonomy identified 291–314 polychaete species from the COI and 16S datasets respectively. Taxonomic and phylogenetic beta diversity between sites were relatively high and mostly explained by lineage turnover. Over half of pairwise comparisons were more phylogenetically distinct than expected based on their taxonomic diversity. Connectivity analyses in abundant, broadly distributed taxa suggest an absence of genetic structuring driven by geographical location.

Main Conclusions

Species diversity in abyssal Pacific polychaetes is high relative to other deep‐sea regions. Results suggest that environmental filtering, where the environment selects against certain species, may play a significant role in regulating spatial patterns of biodiversity in the CCZ. A core group of widespread species have diverse haplotypes but are well connected over broad distances. Our data suggest that the high environmental and faunal heterogeneity of the CCZ should be considered in future policy decisions.
The effects of India's bilateral investment treaties termination on foreign direct investment inflows
Authors: Kotyrlo Elena , Kalachyhin Hryhorii M.
Published: March 2023

India initiated the unilateral mass termination of bilateral investment treaties (BIT termination) in 2016. We consider it a natural experiment to clarify the issue of whether BITs attract foreign direct investment (FDI) to a developing country. We evaluate the effect of BIT termination on the FDI inflows using the double and triple difference approaches (DD and DDD) and the synthetic control (SCM) methods. Our study finds that BIT termination led to a significant decrease in FDI inflows from the country with which India terminated the agreement. Thus, the study confirms that BIT is an essential mechanism for attracting FDI.
Circadian rhythm and aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage: Is there an alarm clock for the rupture timing?
Authors: Gümüs Meltem , Said Maryam , Chihi Mehdi , Dinger Thiemo F. , Rodemerk Jan , Frank Benedikt , Oppong Marvin Darkwah , Dammann Philipp , Wrede Karsten H. , Forsting Michael , Sure Ulrich , Jabbarli Ramazan
Published: March 2023

Background and purpose

Data on the temporal distribution of the bleeding time of intracranial aneurysms are limited to a few small studies. With this study, the aim was to analyze time patterns of the occurrence of aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH), particularly focusing on the impact of patients' socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics on the ictus timing.

Methods

The study is based on an institutional SAH cohort with 782 consecutive cases treated between January 2003 and June 2016. Data were collected on the ictus time, patients' socio‐demographic and clinical characteristics, as well as the initial severity and outcome. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed on the bleeding timeline.

Results

There were two peaks in the circadian rhythm of SAH, one in the morning (7–9 a.m.) and the other in the evening (7–9 p.m.). The strongest alterations in the bleeding time patterns were observed for weekdays, patients' age, sex and ethnicity. Individuals with chronic alcohol and painkiller consumption showed a higher bleeding peak between 1 and 3 p.m. Finally, the bleeding time showed no impact on the severity, clinically relevant complications and the outcome of SAH patients.

Conclusions

This study is one of the very few detailed analyses of the impact of specific socio‐demographic, ethnic, behavioral and clinical characteristics on the rupture timing of aneurysms. Our results point to the possible relevance of the circadian rhythm for the rupture event, and therefore might be useful in the elaboration of preventive measures against aneurysm rupture.
Efficacy of remote ischemic conditioning does not differ between men and women: A secondary analysis of the RICAMIS study
Authors: Qu Hui‐Ling , Sun Xiao‐Yu , Cui Yu , Zhang Yi‐Na , Chen Hui‐Sheng
Published: March 2023

Background and Purpose

The present study aimed to determine sex difference in clinical outcomes after Remote Ischemic Conditioning for Acute Moderate Ischemic Stroke (RICAMIS).

Methods

In this secondary analysis of the RICAMIS study, eligible patients aged 18 years or older with acute moderate ischemic stroke who received remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) within 48 h of stroke onset were divided into two groups: men and women. The primary endpoint was an excellent functional outcome, defined as a modified Rankin Scale score of 0–1 at 90 days. Binary logistic regression analyses and generalized linear models were used.

Results

Of 1707 eligible patients, 34% (579) were women. Women had a higher burden of hypertension and diabetes, and less alcohol and smoking consumption than men. The mean systolic blood pressure and blood glucose level at randomization were higher in women than in men. Compared with the control group, RIC was associated with an increased rate of primary endpoint in men (unadjusted odds ratio [OR] = 1.277; 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.933–1.644; p = 0.057) and women (unadjusted OR = 1.454; 95% CI 1.040–2.032; p = 0.028). Furthermore, a higher absolute risk difference in primary endpoint between control and RIC groups was found in women (9.2%) than in men (5.7%), but there was no significant interaction effect between sex and intervention on primary outcome (p interaction = 0.545).

Conclusion

Compared with men, women may have a higher probability of excellent functional outcomes at 90 days in the RIC group than in the control group; however, no interaction effect between sex and intervention was found.
Tick size and price efficiency: Further evidence from the Tick Size Pilot Program
Authors: Chung Kee H. , Chuwonganant Chairat
Published: March 2023

This paper examines whether larger tick sizes improve or hinder price efficiency for small‐capitalization stocks using data from implementing and terminating the Tick Size Pilot Program (TSPP). We show that the TSPP led to increases in various liquidity measures, and its termination restored them to their pre‐TSPP levels. We also find evidence that the TSPP led to trader migration from the pilot to control stocks. The TSPP implementation (termination) is associated with decreases (increases) in price efficiency, indicating that price efficiency decreases with tick sizes. Liquidity and informed trading are two channels through which the TSPP changes price efficiency.
GERMAN COLONIALISM IN EAST AFRICA AND ITS AFTERMATH IN ABDULRAZAK GURNAH'S NOVELS PARADISE AND AFTERLIVES AND IN CONTEMPORARY GERMAN LITERATURE
Authors: Göttsche Dirk
Published: March 2023

British author and literary scholar Abdulrazak Gurnah, born in Zanzibar in 1948 and awarded the Nobel Prize for Literature in 2021, makes significant contributions to the memory and critique of German colonialism in East Africa and its aftermath both in Tanzania and in Germany. This study examines Gurnah's novels Paradise (1994) and Afterlives (2020) for their representation of German imperial rule and its impact on Swahili society and culture and its place in the Indian Ocean universe, World War I in East Africa, the fate of askari soldiers in Weimar and Nazi Germany, and the memory and postmemory of German colonialism through to the 1960s. Gurnah's literary modelling of African experiences and memories of German colonialism is discussed in Anglo‐German comparative perspective with reference to postcolonial memory discourses in contemporary German literature, including Afro‐German life‐writing.
Commanding men, governing masculinities: Military institutional abuse and organizational reform in the Australian armed forces
Authors: Wadham Ben , Connor James
Published: March 2023

Since its inception, the Australian armed forces, like all five eye military nations, have been challenged by the phenomenon of violence within the institution. Militaries are institutions of and for violence. The imperative of violence cultivates all service personnel through their initial training and then ongoing roles. This article assesses 4 decades of significant Australian military inquiries around the question of internal institutional violence, including bullying, sexual assault, sexual harassment, hazing, and bastardization. We define this as “military institutional abuse,” which represents a new term for describing this phenomenon that allows for a deeper understanding of institutional gendered and martial culture. The aim is to provide the first overview of military institutional abuse within the Australian military. We argue that military institutional abuse is not an anomaly but endemic to the military institution. In the last decade, there has been a significant activity around gender reforms, changing the alcohol culture and the tribal forms of masculinity associated with it. The question of how the military has responded to this phenomenon illuminates better avenues of cultural reform and responds to the problematic question, “to what extent can this authoritarian institution liberalize”?