bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zbtb14 regulates monocyte and macrophage development through inhibiting pu.1 expression in zebrafish
Authors: Deng Yun , Wang Haihong , Liu Xiaohui , Yuan Hao , Xu Jin , de Thé Hugues , Zhou Jun , Zhu Jun
Published: July 2022

Macrophages and their precursor cells, monocytes, are the first line of defense of the body against foreign pathogens and tissue damage. Although the origins of macrophages are diverse, some common transcription factors (such as PU.1) are required to ensure proper development of monocytes/macrophages. Here we report that the deficiency of zbtb14, a transcription repressor gene belonging to ZBTB family, leads to an aberrant expansion of monocyte/macrophage population in zebrafish. Mechanistically, Zbtb14 functions as a negative regulator of pu.1, and SUMOylation on a conserved lysine is essential for the repression activity of Zbtb14. Moreover, a serine to phenylalanine mutation found in an acute myeloid leukemia (AML) patient could target ZBTB14 protein to autophagic degradation. Hence, ZBTB14 is a newly identified gene implicated in both normal and malignant myelopoiesis.
Process-based modelling of microbial community dynamics in the human colon
Authors: Kettle Helen , Louis Petra , Flint Harry J.
Published: July 2022

The human colon contains a dynamic microbial community whose composition has important implications for human health. In this work we build a process-based model of the colonic microbial ecosystem and compare with general empirical observations and the results of in-vivo experiments. Based our previous work (Kettle et al., 2015), the microbial model consists of 10 microbial functional groups, 4 substrates and 10 metabolites; to this we add the interaction with a human host to give simulations of the in-situ colonic microbial ecosystem. This model incorporates absorption of short chain fatty acids (SCFA) and water by the host through the gut wall, variations in incoming dietary substrates (in the form of “meals” whose composition varies in time), bowel movements, feedback on microbial growth from changes in pH resulting from SCFA production, and multiple compartments to represent the proximal, transverse and distal colon. We verify our model against a number of observed criteria, e.g. total SCFA concentrations, SCFA ratios, mass of bowel movements, pH and water absorption over the transit time; and then run simulations investigating the effect of colonic transit time, and the composition and amount of indigestible carbohydrate in the host diet, which we compare with in-vivo studies. Gut microbiota are highly complex and poory understood yet our work shows that it is nevertheless possible to develop predictive models of the key components of the dynamics of this ecological system. The code is available as an R package (microPopGut) to aid future research.

Author Summary

Kettle wrote the model code and led the writing of the manuscript. Louis and Flint both contributed to writing the manuscript and all aspects of microbiolgy. All authors contributed critically to the drafts and gave final approval for publication.
Zyxin contributes to coupling between cell junctions and contractile actomyosin networks during apical constriction
Authors: Slabodnick Mark M. , Tintori Sophia C. , Prakash Mangal , Zhang Pu , Higgins Christopher D. , Chen Alicia H. , Cupp Timothy D. , Wong Terrence , Bowie Emily , Jug Florian , Goldstein Bob
Published: July 2022

One of the most common cell shape changes driving morphogenesis in diverse animals is the constriction of the apical cell surface. Apical constriction depends on contraction of an actomyosin network in the apical cell cortex, but such actomyosin networks have been shown to undergo continual, conveyor belt-like contractions before the shrinking of an apical surface begins. This finding suggests that apical constriction is not necessarily triggered by the contraction of actomyosin networks, but rather can be triggered by unidentified, temporally-regulated mechanical links between actomyosin and junctions. Here, we usedC. elegansgastrulation as a model to seek genes that contribute to such dynamic linkage. We found that α-catenin and β-catenin initially failed to move centripetally with contracting cortical actomyosin networks, suggesting that linkage is regulated between intact cadherin-catenin complexes and actomyosin. We used proteomic and transcriptomic approaches to identify new players, including the candidate linkers AFD-1/afadin and ZYX-1/zyxin, as contributing toC. elegansgastrulation. We found that ZYX-1/zyxin is among a family of LIM domain proteins that have transcripts that become enriched in multiple cells just before they undergo apical constriction. We developed a semi-automated image analysis tool to describe rates of myosin and membrane movement, which we then used to discover that ZYX-1/zyxin contributes to cell-cell junctions’ centripetal movement in concert with contracting actomyosin networks. These results identify several new genes that contribute toC. elegansgastrulation, and they identify zyxin as a key protein important for actomyosin networks to effectively pull cell-cell junctions inward during apical constriction. The transcriptional upregulation of ZYX-1/zyxin in specific cells inC. eleganspoints to one way that developmental patterning spatiotemporally regulates cell biological mechanismsin vivo. Because zyxin and related proteins contribute to membrane-cytoskeleton linkage in other systems, we anticipate that its roles in regulating apical constriction in this manner may be conserved.
Pervasive approximate periodic symmetry in organic P1 structures
Authors: Brock Carolyn Pratt
Published: July 2022

The goal of this project was to identify the prevalence of approximate symmetry in organic P1 structures. In the November 2019 version of the Cambridge Structural Database (CSD), there are 2592 organic, P1, R ≤ 0.050 structures; complete, unique entries are available for 1407 Z = Z′ > 1 and 1049 Z = Z′ = 1 structures. All the Z > 1 structures can have approximate symmetry; the Z = 1 structures were scanned to find those composed of molecules or ions that might lie on a special position and those that have two or more large molecules or ions that are very similar. The number of Z = 1 structures so identified was 285, of which 49 were grouped with the Z > 1 structures because Z
effective > 1. The packing in each of the 1407 + 285 = 1692 structures was investigated. The 144 that should almost certainly have been described in a smaller or higher-symmetry unit cell were removed from the list; 120 of the 144 are composed of achiral or racemic material. (About half of the Z = 1 and 89% of the Z > 1 structures are composed of enantiopure material.) Approximate periodic symmetry was found in 86% of the 1337 remaining Z > 1 structures and in 72% of the 211 remaining Z = 1 structures. About a third of the enantiomerically pure structures mimic inversion symmetry; 38% have approximate rotational symmetry. For the structures of achiral and racemic material, distorted glide or mirror symmetry is more common than is distorted inversion symmetry. Approximate rotational and glide symmetry was found to be periodic in two dimensions considerably more often than in three. In 4% of the structures, different layer types alternate or layers are related by approximate local rotations, as well as by small translations. In 5% of the structures, different parts of the molecule are segregated into two-dimensional regions that have different approximate symmetries. More than a third of the structures that are a distorted version of a higher-symmetry structure were determined at T ≥ 288 K.
Electric supply and demand forecasting using seasonal grey model based on PSO-SVR
Authors: Yao Xianting , Mao Shuhua
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Given the effects of natural and social factors, data on both the supply and demand sides of electricity will produce obvious seasonal fluctuations. The purpose of this article is to propose a new dynamic seasonal grey model based on PSO-SVR to forecast the production and consumption of electric energy.

Design/methodology/approach

In the model design, firstly, the parameters of the SVR are initially optimized by the PSO algorithm for the estimation of the dynamic seasonal operator. Then, the seasonal fluctuations in the electricity demand data are eliminated using the dynamic seasonal operator. After that, the time series after eliminating of the seasonal fluctuations are used as the training set of the DSGM(1, 1) model, and the corresponding fitted, and predicted values are calculated. Finally, the seasonal reduction is performed to obtain the final prediction results.

Findings

This study found that the electricity supply and demand data have obvious seasonal and nonlinear characteristics. The dynamic seasonal grey model based on PSO-SVR performs significantly better than the comparative model for hourly and monthly data as well as for different time durations, indicating that the model is more accurate and robust in seasonal electricity forecasting.

Originality/value

Considering the seasonal and nonlinear fluctuation characteristics of electricity data. In this paper, a dynamic seasonal grey model based on PSO-SVR is established to predict the consumption and production of electric energy.
Contrasting effects of leadership styles on public service motivation: the mediating role of basic psychological needs among Indian public sector officials
Authors: Dash Sanket Sunand , Gupta Rajneesh , Jena Lalatendu Kesari
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Public service motivation (PSM), among actual and prospective employees in the public sector, lead to positive work outcomes. However, there is limited integration of PSM with existing motivational theories, especially self-determination theory (SDT). The impact of destructive leadership styles on PSM is also understudied. The study aims to fill the gap.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a cross-sectional survey of 693 public sector officials employed in Indian Railways to test the hypotheses. PLS-SEM was used for the analysis. The study found that fulfillment of basic psychological needs (BPN) at work leads to improved PSM while BPN partially mediates the positive/negative effect of constructive/destructive leadership styles like servant/autocratic leadership on employees' PSM.

Findings

Autocratic/servant leadership was negatively/positively and significantly related to PSM and to all three BPN needs. Servant leadership was found to be positively and significantly related to all three BPN needs, while the BPN needs partially mediated the relationship between servant leadership and PSM.

Research limitations/implications

The study identifies servant leadership as a driver of PSM and suggests that managers employed in public sector establishments should be trained to be less autocratic and more attuned to subordinates' needs. The baneful impact of autocratic leadership on employee PSM is highlighted. The cross-sectional nature of study makes it susceptible to common-method bias. The sample was limited to a single country. Future longitudinal and experimental studies based on samples drawn from multiple countries can yield more robust results.

Originality/value

The study advances the integration of PSM with SDT by identifying PSM with introjected motivation. It is also the first study to link destructive leadership styles with a reduction in employees' PSM. It identifies a counterintuitive, negative relationship between competence need satisfaction and PSM in the Indian public sector.
Additional income and consumption expenditure at retirement in Ajumako – Enyan – Essiam District (AEED) in the Central Region of Ghana
Authors: Okwae Andrews , Abotsi Anselm Komla , Richardson Theophilus Edward
Published: July 2022

Purpose

Pension income provides the main means for augmenting consumption expenditure and maintaining the welfare of households during retirement. Debate on the reduction in consumption expenditure upon retirement due to insufficient pension income is ongoing. This study seeks to investigate the impact of pensioners without additional income apart from SSNIT pension income on their consumption expenditure.

Design/methodology/approach

This is a quantitative study. Primary data were used in this study. The population includes SSNIT pensioners who are household heads and aged between 56 and 64 years in Ajumako – Enyan – Essiam District (AEED) in the Central Region of Ghana. The study deployed simple random sampling to sample 164 respondents and estimated the consumption expenditure model using White’s heteroskedasticity-corrected standard errors of OLS.

Findings

The findings show that pension income from SSNIT positively influences consumption expenditure on nondurable goods at retirement. The findings also show a drop in consumption expenditure at retirement by pensioners who do not earn additional income.

Research limitations/implications

This calls for an increase in the SSNIT pension income paid to persons who are on retirement. Also, employees are encouraged to plan early, save enough resources and invest in their working life before they retire. Variables such as health status and rural/urban areas were not included in the study. Also, panel data would have been suitable for this kind of study, but due to the unavailability of data, cross-section data were used. These are the limitations of the study.

Originality/value

This study investigated the impact of pensioners without additional income apart from SSNIT pension income on their consumption expenditure. The study also examined whether pensioners without additional sources of income apart from SSNIT pension income can sustain their consumption expenditure on nondurable goods at retirement.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/IJSE-10-2021-0616.
Patient distrust toward doctors in online health communities: integrating distrust construct model and social-technical systems theory
Authors: Xue Jiaxin , Deng Zhaohua , Wu Tailai , Chen Zhuo
Published: July 2022

Purpose

This article aims to explore the factors influencing patients' distrust toward doctors in online health community.

Design/methodology/approach

This study leveraged the distrust construct model and socio-technical systems theory to establish a research model. The authors used the survey method to validate the research model by developing and distributing questionnaires to online health community users. 518 valid responses were collected.

Findings

The data analysis results showed that patients' distrusting beliefs were significantly related to their distrust toward doctors in online health communities. Meanwhile, social factors included perceived egoism and lack of expertise; whereas technical factors included no structural assurance, and lack of third-party recognition.

Originality/value

This study not only provides a solid and comprehensive theoretical understanding of patient distrust toward doctors in online health communities but also could serve as the basis to relieve the distrust between patients and doctors in online health communities, or even in the offline environment.
Temporal changes in the epidemiology of sepsis‐related intensive care admissions from the emergency department in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Jones Daryl , Moran John , Udy Andrew , Pilcher David , Delaney Anthony , Peake Sandra L ,   the ARISE‐TRIPS study investigators
Published: July 2022

Objectives

The Australasian Resuscitation in Sepsis Evaluation (ARISE) study researched septic shock treatment within EDs. This study aims to evaluate whether: (i) conduct of the ARISE study was associated with changes in epidemiology and care for adults (≥18 years) admitted from EDs to ICUs with sepsis in Australia and New Zealand; and (ii) such changes differed among 45 ARISE trial hospitals compared with 120 non‐trial hospitals.

Methods

Retrospective study using interrupted time series analysis in three time periods; ‘Pre‐ARISE’ (January 1997 to December 2007), ‘During ARISE’ (January 2008 to May 2014) and ‘Post‐ARISE’ (June 2014 to December 2017) using data from the Australian and New Zealand Intensive Care Society Adult Patient Database.

Results

Over 21 years there were 54 121 ICU admissions from the ED with sepsis; which increased from 8.1% to 16.4%; 54.6% male, median (interquartile range) age 66 (53–76) years. In the pre‐ARISE period, pre‐ICU ED length of stay (LOS) decreased in trial hospitals but increased in non‐trial hospitals (P = 0.174). During the ARISE study, pre‐ICU ED LOS declined more in trial hospitals (P = 0.039) as did the frequency of mechanical ventilation in the first 24 h (P = 0.003). However, ICU and hospital LOS, in‐hospital mortality and risk of death declined similarly in both trial and non‐trial hospitals.

Conclusions

Sepsis‐related admissions increased from 8.1% to 16.4%. During the ARISE study, there was more rapid ICU admission and decreased early ventilation. However, these changes were not sustained nor associated with decreased risk of death or duration of hospitalisation.
Wind‐robust sound event detection and denoising for bioacoustics
Authors: Juodakis Julius , Marsland Stephen
Published: July 2022

Sound recordings are used in various ecological studies, including wildlife monitoring by acoustic surveys. Such surveys often require automatic detection of target sound events in the large amount of data produced. However, current processing methods, especially those relying on sound intensity for detection, are severely impacted by wind, which causes transient intensity peaks. The rapid dynamics of this noise invalidate standard noise estimators, and no satisfactory method for dealing with wind exists in bioacoustics, where simple training and generalization between conditions are important.

We estimate the transient noise level by fitting short‐term spectrum models to a wavelet packet representation. This estimator is then combined with log‐spectral subtraction to stabilize the background level. The resulting adjusted wavelet series can be analysed by standard detectors. We use real data from long‐term acoustic monitoring to tune this workflow, demonstrate its denoising capabilities and test the improved detection in two population surveys of birds.

The proposed short‐term estimator was more effective than standard (constant) noise estimates in both denoising and detection tasks. In the surveys, the noise‐robust workflow greatly reduced the number of false alarms. As a result, the survey efficiency (precision of the estimated call density) improved for both species.

In contrast to existing methods, the proposed estimator can adjust for transient broadband noises without requiring additional hardware or extensive tuning to each species. It improved the detection workflow based on very little training data, making it particularly attractive for detection of rare species or general soundscape analysis.
Impact of pelvic floor dysfunction in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women attending an urban Aboriginal medical service
Authors: Milroy Talila , Jacobs Sue , Frayne Jacqueline
Published: July 2022

Background

Pelvic floor dysfunction causes high‐level disease burden, with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women less likely to have access to best management for these issues due to multiple sociocultural barriers. There is limited data on the impact of pelvic floor dysfunction in this specific population.

Aims

To explore the impact of pelvic floor dysfunction on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women attending an urban Aboriginal medical service, considering barriers and facilitators for care, and the services that are desired to address these conditions.

Methods

This is a mixed methods project utilising the validated Pelvic Floor Impact Questionnaire 7 in combination with qualitative data from semi‐structured interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using SPSS Version 24 and analysis included the use of means, SD and Fisher's exact test for comparison. Interview transcriptions were coded into initial themes using thematic analysis and a theoretical approach was used to capture common patterned responses.

Results

The majority of women reported urinary incontinence. Higher scores on the urinary impact questions were significantly associated with comorbid risk factors of chronic cough and obesity. Salient themes from interviews included help‐seeking behaviours, embarrassment and normalisation of the condition. Women desired access to a pelvic floor physiotherapist, and preferred a female doctor and a consistent care provider.

Conclusion

Pelvic floor disorders cause high disease burden for Aboriginal women across a broad age range with associated comorbid risk factors frequently occurring. This study suggests service improvement and care delivery strategies that may improve long‐term outcomes for Aboriginal women with pelvic floor conditions.
Autism spectrum disorder during French COVID‐19 lockdown: The importance of individualized support
Authors: Guidotti Marco , Gateau Adrien , Claire Remi , Rabaté Philippe , Roux Sylvie , Malvy Joëlle , Bonnet‐Brilhault Frédérique
Published: July 2022

Aim

This observational and repeated measures study assesses the impact of the first, most restrictive, COVID‐19 lockdown in France on children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and their families.

Method

During the first COVID‐19 lockdown, families of ASD children enrolled in the day‐care centre of the child and adolescent psychiatry department of the Tours University Hospital were contacted weekly. A total of 95 parents took part in this study between the 18th of March and the 8th of May 2020. Advice and personalized support materials were provided by professionals involved in children's care. Questions regarding clinical outcomes were addressed to parents, and their assessments were reported on a 5‐point Likert scale. Two time points were considered: the first 3 weeks and the three last weeks of the lockdown period.

Results

No difference was highlighted between clinical scores collected at the beginning and at the end of the lockdown. No effect of intellectual disability, accommodation type (house or apartment) or parental status was observed. The reasons for the relatively minor impact of the COVID‐19 lockdown observed in this study are discussed.

Conclusions

Individualized and regular support provided by caregivers, familiar with ASD children's clinical specificities, in the context of a trusted relationship with parents may have contributed to the stability of this population. This ‘tailor‐made’ approach should be promoted, in order to help support families of ASD children in this challenging period.
Atmospheric architecture: Gregory of Tours’s use of the fear of God in Tours Cathedral and the Basilica of St Martin
Authors: Hailstone Catherine‐Rose
Published: July 2022

This article explores how and why Gregory of Tours encoded the fear of God into the architecture of Tours cathedral and the Basilica of St Martin. Using Gregory’s writings, in combination with the poetry of Venantius Fortunatus and the inscriptions that adorned the interior walls of the basilica, this paper argues that Gregory followed the church‐building practices of Namatius of Clermont and Perpetuus of Tours and encrypted this divine fear into the architecture of these sacred buildings in order to fulfil his pastoral duties and visually display his episcopal status.
Lower limb muscle quality and phase angle contribute to the reduced walking speed among older adults
Authors: Hirano Yuji , Yamada Yoji , Matsui Yasumoto , Ota Susumu , Arai Hidenori
Published: July 2022

Aim

This cross‐sectional study aimed to determine the predictors of a walking speed <1 m/s. Factors associated with the health of muscle cells, including the phase angle analyzed using bioimpedance analysis, answers to the mini‐nutritional assessment‐short form, albumin levels, leg muscle quality and vitamin D levels, were assessed.

Methods

The study participants were outpatients from the Locomotor Frailty Outpatient Clinic which was established at our center in 2016 (231 women, 76.5 ± 7.6 years; 137 men, 78.0 ± 6.3 years). Participants were classified into two groups, with 1 m/s walking speed as the cutoff value. Binominal logistic regression analysis was performed with walking speed as the dependent variable, and age, leg muscle quality, mini‐nutritional assessment‐short form answers, albumin levels, vitamin D levels and the phase angle as explanatory variables. Leg muscle quality was defined as the mean value of both lower limbs' isometric knee extensor strength, divided by the mean value of both lower limbs' muscle mass through bioimpedance analysis.

Results

The explanatory variables associated with decreased walking speed among women were leg muscle quality (P = 0.004, odds ratio: 0.57) and phase angle (P = 0.017, odds ratio: 0.42). Men were also more likely to have leg muscle quality (P = 0.004, odds ratio: 0.43).

Conclusions

Leg muscle quality and the phase angle of lower extremities were independently associated with low walking speeds (<1 m/s) among older outpatients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2022; 22: 603–609.
Tracing networked images of gendered entrepreneurship online
Authors: Pritchard Katrina , Williams Helen C. , Miller Maggie C.
Published: July 2022

This paper explores the importance of visualization online and the gendering of entrepreneurship in contemporary neoliberal times. We investigate how understandings of entrepreneurship are shaped by online imagery. Applying visual critical methodology, we trace and analyze 248 commercial images. Our analytic work explicates the visual construction of male and female entrepreneurs, leading us to further examine appearance, (in)action, and interaction aesthetics. Through detailed visual analysis, we unpack masculinities and femininities to theorize the resulting gendering of entrepreneurial aesthetics. In doing so, we consider the role of image networks in the reproduction of neoliberal ideals.
Dermatological assessment of thick‐skinned patients before rhinoplasty—what may surgeons ask for?
Authors: Saadoun Rakan , Risse Eva‐Maria , Crisan Diana , Veit Johannes A.
Published: July 2022

Rhinoplasty is considered a very challenging surgery since minimal changes of this central area of the face may significantly impact a person's appearance and self‐awareness. This is even more challenging in thick‐skinned patients because results are less predictable, and changes to the osseocartilaginous framework (OCF) may not be sufficiently visible due to the blanket effect of the thick skin. Furthermore, pre‐existing skin conditions may exacerbate following surgery. Therefore, managing patients with extremely thick skin or patients who suffer from pre‐existing dermatological conditions such as rosacea or acne requires a synergy of surgeons and dermatologists to achieve optimal results. In this article, we review the most significant pre‐ and post‐surgical regimens that surgeons and dermatologists should apply in selected patients to achieve optimal results after rhinoplasty.
A multi‐centre randomized controlled trial comparing connective tissue graft with collagen matrix to increase soft tissue thickness at the buccal aspect of single implants: 1‐year results
Authors: Cosyn Jan , Eeckhout Célien , De Bruyckere Thomas , Eghbali Aryan , Vervaeke Stijn , Younes Faris , Christiaens Véronique
Published: July 2022

Aim

To compare connective tissue graft (CTG) with collagen matrix (CMX) in terms of increase in buccal soft tissue profile (BSP) at 1 year when applied at single implant sites.

Materials and Methods

Patients with a single tooth gap in the anterior maxilla and horizontal mucosa defect were enrolled in a multi‐centre randomized controlled trial. All sites had a bucco‐palatal bone dimension of at least 6 mm, received a single implant and an immediate implant restoration using a full digital workflow. Sites were randomly allocated to the control (CTG) or test group (CMX) to increase buccal soft tissue thickness. The primary outcome was the increase in BSP at 1 year when compared with the pre‐operative situation based on superimposed digital surface models. The changes in BSP over time were registered at a buccal area of interest reaching from 0.5 mm below the soft tissue margin to 4 mm more apical. Secondary outcomes included patient‐reported, clinical and aesthetic outcomes.

Results

Thirty patients were included per group (control: 50% females, mean age 50.1; test: 53% females, mean age 48.2). The increase in BSP at 1 year was 0.98 mm (98.3% confidence interval [CI]: 0.75–1.20) for CTG and 0.57 mm (98.3% CI: 0.34 to 0.79) for CMX. The mean difference of 0.41 mm (98.3% CI: 0.12 to 0.69) in favour of CTG was significant (p < .001). Based on an arbitrarily chosen threshold for success of 0.75 mm increase in BSP, 89.7% of the patients in the control group and 10% of the patients in the test group were successfully treated (odds ratio = 77.90; 95% CI: 13.52 to 448.80; p < .001). Sites treated with CMX demonstrated 0.89 mm (98.3% CI: 0.49 to 1.30) more shrinkage between postop and 1 year than sites treated with CTG. In addition, CMX resulted in significantly more marginal bone loss (0.39 mm; 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.74; p = .026) than CTG. There were no significant differences between the groups in terms of patients' aesthetic satisfaction (p = .938), probing depth (p = .917), plaque (p = .354), bleeding on probing (p = .783), midfacial recession (p = .915), Pink Esthetic Score (p = .121) and Mucosal Scarring Index (p = .965).

Conclusions

CTG remains the gold standard to increase soft tissue thickness at implant sites. Clinicians need to outweigh the benefits of CMX against considerable resorption of the graft. This study was registered in ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04210596).
Awareness of vitiligo among multi‐ethnic populations
Authors: Juntongjin Premjit , Abouelsaad Sara , Sugkraroek Supanee , Taechakraichana Nimit , Lungchukiet Palita , Nuallaong Winitra
Published: July 2022

Background

Vitiligo is a common acquired pigmentary disorder reported worldwide. Although asymptomatic, vitiligo negatively affects the patients' quality of life because it provokes psychological stigmatization and social discrimination. There are several misconceptions regarding vitiligo.

Objective

This study aimed to evaluate the knowledge of and attitudes toward vitiligo in the general population and in different ethnic groups.

Methods

A cross‐sectional survey was conducted during which the participants were required to watch a brief video portraying a waitress affected by vitiligo and to fill a questionnaire related to the video content. Participants were recruited from among people who visited a private international hospital in Bangkok, Thailand, and who freely accepted to participate in the study.

Results

Out of 405 participants who voluntarily participated in the study, approximately 30% were able to identify the condition as vitiligo. Approximately 66% and 88% of the participants had sufficient knowledge about and positive attitudes toward vitiligo, respectively. Those with sufficient knowledge scores significantly had more positive attitudes (p = 0.001). However, there were some differences among ethnic groups (p < 0.0001). Arabians had the highest knowledge and attitude scores. Regarding close‐relationship attitudes, Asians tended to have perceptions that were different from that of others.

Conclusion

Knowledge of and attitudes toward vitiligo varied among ethnicities. Only 30% of the study population could identify this condition. Arabians had the highest knowledge score, whereas Caucasians had the highest prevalence of positive attitudes. Therefore, global awareness of vitiligo should be emphasized.
Acute sleep deprivation increases inflammation and aggravates heart failure after myocardial infarction
Authors: Zhu Yumin , Chen Xian , Guo Lizhe , Wang Lu , Chen Na , Xiao Yujie , Wang E.
Published: July 2022

Sleep disorders have been observed among patients with heart failure. The aim of this study was to investigate whether acute sleep deprivation (SD) aggravates left heart function. Male C57B/L6 mice were assigned to four experimental groups. Ligation of the left anterior descending branch (LAD) caused myocardial infarction (MI) in mice in the LAD group and the LAD+SD group, while mice in the sham and sham+SD groups underwent the same surgery without ligation. Echocardiography was performed before and 8 weeks after ligation of the LAD to evaluate the left ventricular internal diameter at diastole (LVIDd), left ventricular internal diameter at systole (LVIDs), ejection fraction (EF), and fractional shortening (FS). Seven days of sleep deprivation induced using the modified single platform method resulted in a lower EF and FS and a higher LVIDd and LVIDs, as well as increased expression of the IL‐1β, IL‐18, and IL‐10 mRNAs in the left ventricular tissue of MI mice. ELISA also indicated higher levels of IL‐1β and IL‐10 in the LAD+SD group. It was concluded that acute sleep deprivation induced cardiovascular alterations in cardiac structure and function in HF mice, accompanied by increased levels of inflammatory cytokines.
Accuracy of clinical and radiographic recording protocols for diagnosing periodontitis
Authors: de Carvalho‐Buonocore Halinna Larissa Cruz Correia , Moreira Ana Regina Oliveira , Costa Melina Sá Vieira , Thomaz Erika Bárbara Abreu Fonseca , Souza Soraia de Fátima Carvalho
Published: July 2022

Objective

To compare the accuracy of periodontal examination at 6‐sites full‐mouth protocol with clinical and radiographic partial‐mouth recording protocols (PRPs) to diagnose periodontitis considering new 2018 case definition.

Methods

Periodontitis was diagnosed by full‐mouth assessment of clinical attachment level (CAL) at 6‐sites (n = 8529) according to 2018 case definition (standard reference). Three clinical and radiographic PRPs were considered: (i) 4 interproximal sites of all teeth (4‐sites, full‐mouth); (ii) 6‐sites on Community Periodontal Index of Treatment Needs (CPITN) teeth (6‐sites, CPITN teeth); (iii) 4‐sites on CPITN teeth (4‐sites, CPITN teeth); (iv) radiographic examination on interproximal sites of all teeth (rM‐D, full‐mouth); and (v) radiographic examination on interproximal sites of CPITN teeth (rM‐D, CPITN teeth) using Image J®. Sensitivity, specificity, Positive Predictive Value (PPV) and Negative Predictive Value (NPV), accuracy, and Κappa (k) were estimated (α = 0.05).

Results

The 4‐sites, full‐mouth protocol showed 100% sensitivity and NPV, 79.87% PPV, low specificity (38.32%), 69.30% accuracy, and poor agreement (k = 0.468). 6‐sites and 4‐sites CPITN teeth protocols showed 100% PPV and specificity, sensitivity and NPV of >60%, accuracy of >80%, and good agreement (k > 0.65). All clinical PRPs outperformed radiographic protocols.

Conclusion

Clinical PRPs using index teeth are highly accurate in diagnosing periodontitis considering 2018 case definition.
Mutation of glucose‐methanol‐choline oxidoreductase leads to thermosensitive genic male sterility in rice and Arabidopsis
Authors: Zhang Yan‐Fei , Li Yue‐Ling , Zhong Xiang , Wang Jun‐Jie , Zhou Lei , Han Yu , Li Dan‐Dan , Wang Na , Huang Xue‐Hui , Zhu Jun , Yang Zhong‐Nan
Published: July 2022

Thermosensitive genic male sterility (TGMS) lines serve as the major genetic resource for two‐line hybrid breeding in rice. However, their unstable sterility under occasional low temperatures in summer highly limits their application. In this study, we identified a novel rice TGMS line, ostms18, of cultivar ZH11 (Oryza sativa ssp. japonica). ostms18 sterility is more stable in summer than the TGMS line carrying the widely used locus tms5 in the ZH11 genetic background, suggesting its potential application for rice breeding. The ostms18 TGMS trait is caused by the point mutation from Gly to Ser in a glucose‐methanol‐choline (GMC) oxidoreductase; knockout of the oxidoreductase was previously reported to cause complete male sterility. Cellular analysis revealed the pollen wall of ostms18 to be defective, leading to aborted pollen under high temperature. Further analysis showed that the tapetal transcription factor OsMS188 directly regulates OsTMS18 for pollen wall formation. Under low temperature, the flawed pollen wall in ostms18 is sufficient to protect its microspore, allowing for development of functional pollen and restoring fertility. We identified the orthologous gene in Arabidopsis. Although mutants for the gene were fertile under normal conditions (24°C), fertility was significantly reduced under high temperature (28°C), exhibiting a TGMS trait. A cellular mechanism integrated with genetic mutations and different plant species for fertility restoration of TGMS lines is proposed.
Continuity of the “code”: A review of the subcultures and informal social norms in prisons, streets, and schools
Authors: Bell Charles , Kinzel Aaron , Akakpo Yoo
Published: July 2022

Over the last several decades, sociologists and criminologists have documented the presence of a subculture in prison and street settings. Recent scholarship has shed light on how failed safety measures and key institutional deprivations also contribute to the manifestation of a subculture in urban and suburban public schools. Within each setting, researchers have illuminated how a set of informal social norms, formally known as a “code,” govern interpersonal communication and regulate violence. Considering the prevalence of violence in prison, street, and school settings, it is important to understand how the code operates, the social conditions that influence individual and group adherence, and whether the code in prison, street, and school settings reinforce one another. This review seeks to explore the inner workings of the inmate, street, and school codes, shed light on their utility in each respective setting, and reveal how the carceral state extends throughout each of the respective codes.
Burden of organ donation after euthanasia in patients with psychiatric disorder
Authors: Maes Gwendolyn , Oude Voshaar Richard , Bollen Jan , Marijnissen Radboud
Published: July 2022

Organ donation after euthanasia (ODE) is rarely performed but the number has gradually increased over the years. It has been suggested that the preparatory investigations for organ donation parallel to the medical-legal procedures for euthanasia may be too much of a burden for the patients and their relatives. Furthermore, dying in an intensive care unit might contribute to this burden. Based on two patients who were granted euthanasia based on a psychiatric disorder, we show that the actual burden may be minimal for some patients and their relatives and may even be helpful in their process of euthanasia. Therefore, we propose that providing patients with information about donation of organs after euthanasia may be important to incorporate early in the medical-legal process of euthanasia instead of waiting for the patient to bring up organ donation, as currently advised in the Dutch guideline for ODE.
Deviation analysis in custom-made mandibular reconstruction: how to evaluate results
Authors: Gennaro Paolo , Cascino Flavia , Pignataro Laura Viola , Gabriele Guido
Published: July 2022

The purpose of this case report is to present a deviation analysis made to evaluate the accuracy and reproducibility of virtual surgical planning—computer-aided design—computer-aided manufacturing (CAD/CAM) technology.

These techniques were used to programme and perform both demolitive and reconstructive surgery in an 18-year-old man treated for a mandibular ameloblastoma. Total body CT scan and CT angiography were performed before the surgery. DICOM-format data were captured and a planning was performed using CAD/CAM technology. After the surgery, DICOM files of a postoperative CT scan were evaluated to assess the accuracy of the reconstruction. The deviation of the postoperative result from what was planned was indicated with different colours in a mandible mapper and changes in condylar and angular position between 0.5 mm and 2 mm were observed. A standardised method to evaluate accuracy or efficiency of CAD/CAM technology is still not available, nevertheless, since the patient has a good functional or aesthetic recover, the authors are satisfied with the results.
Case of adult-onset Kawasaki disease and multisystem inflammatory syndrome following SARS-CoV-2 vaccination
Authors: Showers Christopher R , Maurer Jaslyn M , Khakshour Doreen , Shukla Mohit
Published: July 2022

Kawasaki disease (KD) and multisystem inflammatory syndrome (MIS) are rare conditions that occur predominately in children. Recent reports document KD and MIS in adult patients following infection with SARS-CoV-2. Rarely, MIS is observed following vaccination against SARS-CoV-2, mostly in patients with prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. We report a case of KD in a man after a second SARS-CoV-2 vaccine dose, in absence of concurrent or prior SARS-CoV-2 infection. This patient also met criteria for probable MIS associated with vaccination. He tested negative for SARS-CoV-2 RNA via reverse transcriptase PCR, negative for SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid antibodies and demonstrated high levels SARS-CoV-2 spike protein antibodies, commonly used to assess vaccine response. Symptom improvement followed treatment with intravenous immunoglobulin, including desquamation of the hands and feet. As widespread vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 continues, increased vigilance and prompt intervention is necessary to limit the effects of postvaccination inflammatory syndromes.
Benefit of natriuresis and cardiac resynchronisation therapy in acute decompensated heart failure with cardiorenal syndrome and hypernatraemia
Authors: Khojah Abdulrahman Tawfiq , Katz Emma , Pace Romina , Rajendram Rajkumar
Published: July 2022

A man in his eighties with acute heart failure and cardiorenal syndrome developed severe hypernatraemia with diuresis. In this situation, palliation is often considered when renal replacement therapy is inappropriate. The literature to guide treatment of dysnatraemia in this setting is limited. Diuretics often worsen hypernatraemia and fluid replacement exacerbates heart failure. We describe a successful approach to this clinical Catch-22: sequential nephron blockade with intravenous 5% dextrose. Seemingly counterintuitive, the natriuretic effect of this combination had not previously been compared with diuretic monotherapy for heart failure. Yet this immediately effective strategy generated a high natriuresis-to-diuresis ratio and functioned as a bridge to cardiac resynchronisation therapy (CRT). In conjunction with a low salt diet, CRT facilitated the maintenance of sodium homeostasis and fluid balance. Thus, by improving the underlying pathophysiology (ie, inadequate cardiac output), CRT may enhance the outcomes of patients with cardiorenal syndrome and hypernatraemia.
Microsporidial myositis, keratitis and hypercalcaemia in a cystic fibrosis lung transplant recipient
Authors: Watson Anna Louise , Matic Marko , Robertson Thomas , Stewart Alexandra Gabrielle Ann
Published: July 2022

A man in his 50s was admitted with 4 months of myalgia, headaches, hypercalcaemia and declining renal function on a background of lung transplantation for cystic fibrosis 5 years prior. MRI confirmed myositis and a muscle biopsy revealed invasive muscular microsporidial infection. Positron emission tomography(PET)/CT revealed widespread dissemination of the infection. Albendazole was commenced and after a 1 week systemic inflammatory response syndrome, the patient made a significant recovery and was discharged home. PCR testing confirmed the species asAnncaliia algerae, which is known to infect mosquitoes, larvae and contaminate water supplies. This case highlights the need to relentlessly pursue a diagnosis and to consider atypical pathology in immune compromised patients. A tissue sample yielded highly beneficial and unexpected results. A multispecialty approach was essential given the varied infection manifestations, which included myositis, keratitis and possible central nervous system, vocal cord, parapharyngeal and renal involvement.
Takotsubo cardiomyopathy secondary to elective sclerotherapy for varicose veins
Authors: Ahmed-Man Ramiz , Lim Yizhe , Lau Kwan Ho Gareth , Bhaumick Swapan
Published: July 2022

A man in his 70s presented to the emergency department with ongoing chest pain, which started directly after receiving sclerotherapy for the treatment of varicose veins. This was on a background of experiencing short-term chest pain twice previously following sclerotherapy. By the time he was seen, his pain had reduced significantly. ECG showed subtle ischaemic changes. Troponins were significantly raised. A transthoracic echocardiogram demonstrated apical akinesis. Coronary arteries were patent on angiography. A repeat echocardiogram in 4 weeks showed complete resolution of ventricular dysfunction. This represents the first reported case of Takotsubo cardiomyopathy following sclerotherapy in the UK. This case provides a useful learning opportunity for clinicians, to consider immediate investigation in the context of chest pain following sclerotherapy, and how to practically distinguish between Takotsubo cardiomyopathy and myocardial infarction in the differential diagnosis.
Severe pulmonary toxicity related to carfilzomib use: a rare but serious side effect
Authors: Sridhar Arthi , Yohannan Binoy , Kachira Johncy John , Bhama Sameeksha
Published: July 2022

Carfilzomib is a selective proteosome inhibitor that is commonly used in the treatment of relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma. Carfilzomib has been commonly associated with respiratory side effects. It can rarely also cause fatal pulmonary toxicity. We present a case of a man in his 50s with plasma cell leukaemia who was initiated on treatment with carfilzomib and dexamethasone. He developed severe pneumonitis requiring oxygen via a high-flow nasal cannula. After an extensive workup, a temporal relationship between the carfilzomib use and exacerbation of the pulmonary symptoms was found. Carfilzomib was permanently discontinued, and the patient was started promptly on methyl prednisolone with complete resolution of his symptoms. Due to the associated risk of mortality if not detected early, we wish to highlight this rare but serious pulmonary toxicity associated with carfilzomib that was managed with high-dose glucocorticoids.
Influence of FENE-P fluid on drag reduction and heat transfer past a magnetized surface
Authors: Ahmad Adeel , Ishaq Airal , Khan Yasir
Published: July 2022

This paper presents the finitely extensible nonlinear elastic-Peterlin (FENE-P) fluid model to analyze how polymeric fluid affects drag and heat transfer over a magnetized stretching surface. The FENE-P is one of the viscosity models used to study the behavior of polymeric fluids. The governing boundary layer equations based on physical laws are transformed into a similar form using appropriated transformation. To discuss the impacts of polymers and magnetic fields on flow and heat transfer, the resulting equations are numerically solved using the shooting method, and the outcomes are presented graphically. The role of magnetic fields and polymers as drag-reducing and heat transfer enhancing agents is also thoroughly discussed.
An optimized design of grid-controlled modulated X-ray source for space communication
Authors: Su Tong , Sheng Lizhi , Li Yao , Qiang Pengfei , Liu Yongan , Xu Neng , Zhao Baosheng
Published: July 2022

In this paper, by analyzing the principle of the Grid-controlled Modulated X-ray Source, the core structure parameters including half width of the cathode notch, depth of the sinking filament and target angle are systematically designed and optimized. The electron-photon conversion efficiency and the minimum cut-off voltage of the X-ray source are calculated. In addition, an experimental system is built for the optimized GMXS test and ground X-ray communication (XCOM) verification. The experimental results indicate that with the same anode voltage and filament current, the number of emitted photons increases by 16–18% after optimization, the output X-ray photons intensity stability is better than [Formula: see text]%, and the cut-off voltage is reduced to −10 V. Based on this optimized GMXS, the ground XCOM rate increased to higher than 1 Mbps.