bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Introducción: Los entes autónomos en el derecho constitucional latinoamericano
Authors: García-Huidobro Luis Eugenio , Guidi Sebastián
Published: March 2023

This introduction provides an overview of the concept and role of independent authorities in comparative public law, with a particular emphasis on Latin America. First, we outline an idea of these institutions and examine how they have assumed critical responsibilities traditionally allocated to one of the three branches of government. We also explore their role in protecting constitutional democracy and discuss some problems associated with their democratic legitimacy. Second, we outline these entities’ situation in Latin America, stressing how little academic attention they have received in contrast with their growing importance. Finally, we provide a critical review of each of the contributions to the symposium.
On Density of Modular Points in Pseudo-Deformation Rings
Authors: Deo Shaunak V
Published: March 2023

Given a continuous, odd, reducible, and semi-simple $2$-dimensional representation $\bar \rho _{0}$ of $G_{{\mathbb{Q}},Np}$ over a finite field of odd characteristic $p$, we study the relation between the universal deformation ring of the pseudo-representation corresponding to $\bar \rho _{0}$ (pseudo-deformation ring) and the big $p$-adic Hecke algebra to prove that the maximal reduced quotient of the pseudo-deformation ring is isomorphic to the local component of the big $p$-adic Hecke algebra corresponding to $\bar \rho _{0}$ if a certain global Galois cohomology group has dimension $1$. This partially extends the results of Böckle to the case of residually reducible representations. We give an application of our main theorem to the structure of Hecke algebras modulo $p$. As another application of our methods and results, we prove a result about non-optimal levels of newforms lifting $\bar \rho _{0}$ in the spirit of Diamond–Taylor. This also gives a partial answer to a conjecture of Billerey–Menares.
Endothelial damage occurs early after inhalation injury as measured by increased syndecan-1 levels
Authors: Kelly Edward J , Carney Bonnie C , Oliver Mary A , Keyloun John W , Prindeze Nicholas J , Nisar Saira , Moffatt Lauren T , Shupp Jeffrey W
Published: March 2023

Inhalation injury is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the burn patient population. However, the pathogenesis of inhalation injury and its potential involvement in burn shock is not well understood. Preclinical studies have shown endothelial injury, as measured by syndecan-1 (SDC-1) levels, to be involved in the increased vascular permeability seen in shock states. Furthermore, the lung has been identified as a site of significant SDC-1 shedding. Here we aim to characterize the contribution of endotheliopathy caused by inhalation alone in a swine model. When comparing injured animals, the fold change of circulating SDC-1 levels from preinjury was significantly higher at 2, 4, and 6 hours postinjury (P = .0045, P = .0017, and P < .001, respectively). When comparing control animals, the fold change of SDC-1 from preinjury was not significant at any timepoint. When comparing injured animals versus controls, the fold change of SDC-1 injured animals was significantly greater at 2, 4, 6, and 18 hours (P = .004, P = .03, P < .001, and P = .03, respectively). Histological sections showed higher lung injury severity compared to control uninjured lungs (0.56 vs 0.38, P < .001). This novel animal model shows significant increases in SDC-1 levels that provide evidence for the connection between smoke inhalation injury and endothelial injury. Further understanding of the mechanisms underlying inhalation injury and its contribution to shock physiology may aid in development of early, more targeted therapies.
Using ChatGPT to evaluate cancer myths and misconceptions: artificial intelligence and cancer information
Authors: Johnson Skyler B , King Andy J , Warner Echo L , Aneja Sanjay , Kann Benjamin H , Bylund Carma L
Published: March 2023

Data about the quality of cancer information that chatbots and other artificial intelligence systems provide are limited. Here, we evaluate the accuracy of cancer information on ChatGPT compared with the National Cancer Institute’s (NCI’s) answers by using the questions on the “Common Cancer Myths and Misconceptions” web page. The NCI’s answers and ChatGPT answers to each question were blinded, and then evaluated for accuracy (accurate: yes vs no). Ratings were evaluated independently for each question, and then compared between the blinded NCI and ChatGPT answers. Additionally, word count and Flesch-Kincaid readability grade level for each individual response were evaluated. Following expert review, the percentage of overall agreement for accuracy was 100% for NCI answers and 96.9% for ChatGPT outputs for questions 1 through 13 (ĸ = ‒0.03, standard error = 0.08). There were few noticeable differences in the number of words or the readability of the answers from NCI or ChatGPT. Overall, the results suggest that ChatGPT provides accurate information about common cancer myths and misconceptions.
Radiofrequency thermocoagulation of haemorrhoids: learning curve of a novel approach
Authors: Butnari Valentin , Mansuri Ahmer , Kaul Sandeep , Shatkar Veeranna , Boulton Richard
Published: March 2023

Haemorrhoidal disease (HD) is a common condition that often requires surgical treatment. In comparison with other traditional techniques, radiofrequency thermocoagulation (RFTC) has multiple advantages to traditional repairs and can be a good alternative in surgical management of HD. We retrospectively analysed 20 patients with Grades 2 (n = 6, 30%) and 3 (n = 12, 70%) haemorrhoids undergoing RFTC from 1 September 2019 to 31 December 2021. Outcomes including post-operative (PO) pain, immediate/late PO complications, recurrence and patient satisfaction were assessed. Twenty cases were included in this case series. All pathological symptoms showed significant improvement in PO period. Eight complications were noted, including minor bleeding (n = 2), bleeding that required admissions (n = 3), pain (n = 2) and recurrence (n = 1). The mean time off work is 7 days and all patients were satisfied or very satisfied PO as per telephone questionnaire. RFTC is a safe and effective solution in the management of HD and is a good alternative to conventional procedures.
Time-consciousness in computational phenomenology: a temporal analysis of active inference
Authors: Bogotá Juan Diego , Djebbara Zakaria
Published: March 2023

Time plays a significant role in science and everyday life. Despite being experienced as a continuous flow, computational models of consciousness are typically restricted to a sequential temporal structure. This difference poses a serious challenge for computational phenomenology—a novel field combining phenomenology and computational modelling. By analysing the temporal structure of the active inference framework, we show that an integrated continuity of time can be achieved by merging Husserlian temporality with a sequential order of time. We also show that a Markov blanket of the present moment integrates past and future moments of both subjective temporality and objective time in an asynchronous manner. By applying the integrated continuity, it is clear that active inference makes use of both subjective temporality and objective time in an integrated fashion. We conclude that active inference, on a temporal note, qualifies as a computational model for phenomenological investigations.
Silencing of STE20-type kinase TAOK1 confers protection against hepatocellular lipotoxicity through metabolic rewiring
Authors: Xia Ying , Andersson Emma , Anand Sumit K. , Cansby Emmelie , Caputo Mara , Kumari Sima , Porosk Rando , Kilk Kalle , Nair Syam , Marschall Hanns-Ulrich , Blüher Matthias , Mahlapuu Margit
Published: March 2023

Background:

NAFLD has become the leading cause of chronic liver disease worldwide afflicting about one quarter of the adult population. NASH is a severe subtype of NAFLD, which in addition to hepatic steatosis connotes liver inflammation and hepatocyte ballooning. In light of the exponentially increasing prevalence of NAFLD, it is imperative to gain a better understanding of its molecular pathogenesis. The aim of this study was to examine the potential role of STE20-type kinase TAOK1 —a hepatocellular lipid droplet-associated protein—in the regulation of liver lipotoxicity and NAFLD etiology.

Methods:

The correlation between TAOK1 mRNA expression in liver biopsies and the severity of NAFLD was evaluated in a cohort of 62 participants. Immunofluorescence microscopy was applied to describe the subcellular localization of TAOK1 in human and mouse hepatocytes. Metabolic reprogramming and oxidative/endoplasmic reticulum stress were investigated in immortalized human hepatocytes, where TAOK1 was overexpressed or silenced by small interfering RNA, using functional assays, immunofluorescence microscopy, and colorimetric analysis. Migration, invasion, and epithelial-mesenchymal transition were examined in TAOK1-deficient human hepatoma-derived cells. Alterations in hepatocellular metabolic and pro-oncogenic signaling pathways were assessed by immunoblotting.

Results:

We observed a positive correlation between the TAOK1 mRNA abundance in human liver biopsies and key hallmarks of NAFLD (i.e., hepatic steatosis, inflammation, and ballooning). Furthermore, we found that TAOK1 protein fully colocalized with intracellular lipid droplets in human and mouse hepatocytes. The silencing of TAOK1 alleviated lipotoxicity in cultured human hepatocytes by accelerating lipid catabolism (mitochondrial β-oxidation and triacylglycerol secretion), suppressing lipid anabolism (fatty acid influx and lipogenesis), and mitigating oxidative/endoplasmic reticulum stress, and the opposite changes were detected in TAOK1-overexpressing cells. We also found decreased proliferative, migratory, and invasive capacity, as well as lower epithelial-mesenchymal transition in TAOK1-deficient human hepatoma-derived cells. Mechanistic studies revealed that TAOK1 knockdown inhibited ERK and JNK activation and repressed acetyl-CoA carboxylase (ACC) protein abundance in human hepatocytes.

Conclusions:

Together, we provide the first experimental evidence supporting the role of hepatic lipid droplet-decorating kinase TAOK1 in NAFLD development through mediating fatty acid partitioning between anabolic and catabolic pathways, regulating oxidative/endoplasmic reticulum stress, and modulating metabolic and pro-oncogenic signaling.
P2X7-NLRP3-Caspase-1 signaling mediates activity-induced muscle pain in male but not female mice
Authors: Hayashi Kazuhiro , Lesnak Joseph B. , Plumb Ashley N. , Rasmussen Lynn A. , Sluka Kathleen A.
Published: March 2023

We developed an animal model of activity-induced muscle pain that is dependent on local macrophage activation and release of interleukin-1β (IL-1β). Activation of purinergic type 2X (P2X) 7 receptors recruits the NOD-like receptor protein (NLRP) 3 and activates Caspase-1 to release IL-1β. We hypothesized that pharmacological blockade of P2X7, NLRP3, and Caspase-1 would prevent development of activity-induced muscle pain in vivo and release of IL-1β from macrophages in vitro. The decrease in muscle withdrawal thresholds in male, but not female, mice was prevented by the administration of P2X7, NLRP3, and Caspase-1 inhibitors before induction of the model, whereas blockade of IL-1β before induction prevented muscle hyperalgesia in both male and female mice. Blockade of P2X7, NLRP3, Capsase-1, or IL-1β 24 hours, but not 1 week, after induction of the model alleviated muscle hyperalgesia in male, but not female, mice. mRNA expression of P2X7, NLRP3, Caspase-1, and IL-1β from muscle was increased 24 hours after induction of the model in both male and female mice. Using multiplex, increases in IL-1β induced by combining adenosine triphosphate with pH 6.5 in lipopolysaccharide-primed male and female macrophages were significantly lower with the presence of inhibitors of P2X7 (A740003), NLRP3 (MCC950), and Caspase-1 (Z-WEHD-FMK) when compared with the vehicle. The current data suggest the P2X7/NLRP3/Caspase-1 pathway contributed to activity-induced muscle pain initiation and early maintenance phases in male but not female, and not in late maintenance phases in male mice.
Shoutai pills for threatened abortion: A protocol for systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Song Chuangxiu , Zhang Shan , Gao Xiaojing , Zhang Haidi , Zuo Songbo , Qin Yuxuan , Bi Xiaotao , Chen Huijuan
Published: March 2023

Background:

Threatened abortions are a serious health risk for women. Deferiprone tablets are commonly used in the treatment of clinical delivery. Traditional Chinese medicine, a characteristic medical system inherited for thousands of years, often applies Shoutai pills in the treatment of Threatened abortion and has achieved good results. This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of Shoutai pills combined with dedrogesterone tablets for the treatment of early preterm abortion.

Methods:

Electronic searches of clinical randomized controlled trials in PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, Wanfang database, and China Scientific Journal Database (VIP) were conducted. References to the included literature, gray literature in Open Grey, and other relevant literature such as clinical studies registered in ClinicalTrials.gov, were also manually searched. Relevant data were extracted, and a meta-analysis was performed using Reviewer Manager 5.4.

Results:

The results of this study will be submitted to peer-reviewed journals.

Conclusion:

This study provides high-quality evidence on the efficacy and safety of Shoutai pills in combination with dedrogesterone tablets for the treatment of preterm abortion.
Application of extracorporeal shockwave therapy to improve microcirculation in diabetic foot ulcers: A prospective study
Authors: Jeong Daun , Lee Jin Hyuck , Lee Gyu Bin , Shin Ki Hun , Hwang Jangsun , Jang Se Youn , Yoo Jin , Jang Woo Young
Published: March 2023

Extracorporeal shockwave therapy (ESWT) can induce wound healing by increasing tissue microcirculation. However, studies on the effect of ESWT on enhancing tissue microcirculation in diabetic foot ulcer (DFU), particularly on when the microcirculation increases after ESWT application, are still lacking. Therefore, we aimed to examine the effectiveness of ESWT in promoting microcirculation in DFU patients in a time-dependent manner. We included 50 feet of 25 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus and Wagner grade I to II DFU in this study. The affected feet were used as the ESWT group and the unaffected contralateral feet were used as the control group. ESWT was performed in 3 sessions per week for a total of 3 weeks. Transcutaneous partial oxygen pressure (TcPO2) was used to evaluate the tissue microcirculation. The TcPO2 level (>43 mm Hg) in the ESWT group was recovered by the 2nd week of treatment, and statistical significance (P < .05) was demonstrated at the same time. From the 2nd week of ESWT, a significant increase in TcPO2 was observed in Wagner grade I and II DFU. These findings imply that the ESWT may improve microcirculation in patients with Wagner grades I to II DFU. However, this impact requires at least 2 weeks or more than 6 sessions. For better comparison, further studies with larger clinical groups and extended period are needed.
Laparoscopic Sleeve Gastrectomy Versus One Anastomosis Gastric Bypass in Adolescents With Obesity
Authors: Sorek Adi , Eldar Sukhotnik Meron , Cohen Shlomi , Mazkeret Mayer Inbar , Sukhtnik Igor , Lubetzky Ronit , Moran-Lev Hadar
Published: March 2023

Objective:

Large studies comparing outcomes between laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy (LSG) and one anastomosis gastric bypass (OAGB) are scarce and involve adult populations. The aim of the study was to compare perioperative, early postoperative, and 1-year postoperative outcomes of adolescents with obesity who underwent LSG or OAGB surgery.

Methods:

The medical records of adolescents with obesity who underwent LSG or OAGB at the Tel Aviv Sourasky Medical Center from January 2017 to January 2021 were retrospectively reviewed. Data on their gastrointestinal (GI) symptoms and postoperative quality of life were obtained by a telephone interview.

Results:

Included were 75 adolescents (median [interquartile range, IQR] age 17.3 [16–18] years) of whom 22 underwent OAGB and 53 underwent LSG. There were no significant preoperative group differences in age, sex, and body mass index score. A low rate of perioperative (5.7% vs 0) and postoperative complication (15.1% vs 10%) with no statistical differences between LSG and OAGB group, respectively, was noted. At 12 months, the percent excessive weight loss + IQR was 42.40% [30.00, 45.00] and 38.00% [33.550, 44.20] in the LSG and OAGB group, respectively (P = NS). The results of the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory Gastrointestinal Symptoms scale revealed significantly less food limitation and heartburn after OAGB compared to LSG (food limitation 71.63 vs 53.85 and heartburn 83.654 vs 61.6, P = 0.03 and P = 0.029, respectively).

Conclusions:

Both surgeries are effective and safe for weight loss in the adolescent population. OAGB was associated with significantly fewer GI symptoms compared to LSG.
Taylor–Couette flow for astrophysical purposes
Authors: Ji H. , Goodman J.
Published: March 2023

A concise review is given of astrophysically motivated experimental and theoretical research on Taylor–Couette flow. The flows of interest rotate differentially with the inner cylinder faster than the outer, but are linearly stable against Rayleigh’s inviscid centrifugal instability. At shear Reynolds numbers as large as106, hydrodynamic flows of this type (quasi-Keplerian) appear to be nonlinearly stable: no turbulence is seen that cannot be attributed to interaction with the axial boundaries, rather than the radial shear itself. Direct numerical simulations agree, although they cannot yet reach such high Reynolds numbers. This result indicates that accretion-disc turbulence is not purely hydrodynamic in origin, at least insofar as it is driven by radial shear. Theory, however, predicts linear magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) instabilities in astrophysical discs: in particular, the standard magnetorotational instability (SMRI). MHD Taylor–Couette experiments aimed at SMRI are challenged by the low magnetic Prandtl numbers of liquid metals. High fluid Reynolds numbers and careful control of the axial boundaries are required. The quest for laboratory SMRI has been rewarded with the discovery of some interesting inductionless cousins of SMRI, and with the recently reported success in demonstrating SMRI itself using conducting axial boundaries. Some outstanding questions and near-future prospects are discussed, especially in connection with astrophysics.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Taylor–Couette and related flows on the centennial of Taylor’s seminalPhilosophical Transactionspaper (part 2)’.
A parameter study of strato-rotational low-frequency modulations: impacts on momentum transfer and energy distribution
Authors: Meletti G. , Abide S. , Viazzo S. , Harlander U.
Published: March 2023

Previous comparisons of experimental data with nonlinear numerical simulations of density stratified Taylor–Couette (TC) flows revealed nonlinear interactions of strato-rotational instability (SRI) modes that lead to periodic changes in the SRI spirals and their axial propagation. These pattern changes are associated with low-frequency velocity modulations that are related to the dynamics of two competing spiral wave modes propagating in opposite directions. In the present paper, a parameter study of the SRI is performed using direct numerical simulations to evaluate the influence of the Reynolds numbers, the stratification, and of the container geometry on these SRI low-frequency modulations and spiral pattern changes. The results of this parameter study show that the modulations can be considered as a secondary instability that are not observed for all SRI unstable regimes. The findings are of interest when the TC model is related to star formation processes in accretion discs.

This article is part of the theme issue ‘Taylor–Couette and related flows on the centennial of Taylor’s seminal
Philosophical Transactions
paper (part 2)’.
Context-Dependent Modification of PFKFB3 in Hematopoietic Stem Cells Promotes Anaerobic Glycolysis and Ensures Stress Hematopoiesis
Authors: Watanuki Shintaro , Kobayashi Hiroshi , Sugiura Yuki , Yamamoto Masamichi , Karigane Daiki , Shiroshita Kohei , Sorimachi Yuriko , Fujita Shinya , Morikawa Takayuki , Koide Shuhei , Oshima Motohiko , Nishiyama Akira , Murakami Koichi , Haraguchi Miho , Tamaki Shinpei , Yamamoto Takehiro , Yabushita Tomohiro , Tanaka Yosuke , Nagamatsu Go , Honda Hiroaki , Okamoto Shinichiro , Goda Nobuhito , Tamura Tomohiko , Nakamura-Ishizu Ayako , Suematsu Makoto , Iwama Atsushi , Suda Toshio , Takubo Keiyo
Published: March 2023

Metabolic pathways are plastic and rapidly change in response to stress or perturbation. Current metabolic profiling techniques require lysis of many cells, complicating the tracking of metabolic changes over time after stress in rare cells such as hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs). Here, we aimed to identify the key metabolic enzymes that define differences in glycolytic metabolism between steady-state and stress conditions in HSCs and elucidate their regulatory mechanisms. Through quantitative13C metabolic flux analysis of glucose metabolism using high-sensitivity glucose tracing and mathematical modeling, we found that HSCs activate the glycolytic rate-limiting enzyme phosphofructokinase (PFK) during proliferation and oxidative phosphorylation (OXPHOS) inhibition. Real-time measurement of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) levels in single HSCs demonstrated that proliferative stress or OXPHOS inhibition led to accelerated glycolysis via increased activity of PFKFB3, the enzyme regulating an allosteric PFK activator, within seconds to meet ATP requirements. Furthermore, varying stresses differentially activated PFKFB3 via PRMT1-dependent methylation during proliferative stress and via AMPK-dependent phosphorylation during OXPHOS inhibition. Overexpression ofPfkfb3induced HSC proliferation and promoted differentiated cell production, whereas inhibition or loss ofPfkfb3suppressed them. This study reveals the flexible and multilayered regulation of HSC glycolytic metabolism to sustain hematopoiesis under stress and provides techniques to better understand the physiological metabolism of rare hematopoietic cells.

Key Points

Combined isotope tracing, mathematical modeling, and single cell ATP analysis enable high-resolution evaluation of blood cell metabolism.

Under stress, HSCs quickly accelerate glycolysis to meet ATP demands and maintain hematopoiesis via context-dependent PFKFB3 activation.
A pragmatist neoclassical accounting research agenda for identifiable intangibles
Authors: Rutherford Brian A.
Published: March 2023

Purpose

This paper offers a way of revivifying classical accounting research in the form of a pragmatist neoclassical programme with a sound epistemological underpinning.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper draws on a pragmatist perspective on financial accounting and accounting research springing from John Dewey's theory of inquiry.

Findings

Although a pragmatist underpinning does not entail specific methodological prescriptions, it can provide fruitful insights in research design. The paper discusses the structure and content of a research programme drawing on a pragmatist underpinning and sets out proposals for a practical research agenda. Although the agenda is shaped around the topic of identifiable intangibles, much of the paper has substantially wider relevance.

Research limitations/implications

The approach justifies a revival in scholarly research employing classical methods and directed at improving accounting methods and standards.

Practical implications

The approach would promote closer engagement between scholarly accounting and practitioners such as standard-setters, making some contribution to closing the widely acknowledged gap between research and practice.

Originality/value

The paper offers a neoclassical programme of research drawing considerably more extensively on pragmatist philosophy than did theorisation in the classical period.
A pricing and transshipment hybrid strategy for perishable product in two external scenarios for supply disruption
Authors: Sun Qi , Gao Yaya , Lu Qihui , Yan Yingyi
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Different external supply scenarios faced by the retailers will affect their choice of strategy when supply is disrupted and becomes far less than demand, urgently. This study focuses on analyzing both demand and supply side response strategies to meet customer demand and reduce the impact of the shortage during supply disruptions.

Design/methodology/approach

According to the quantity of products that the external market can provide, the external supply scenarios were divided into sufficient-type external supply and learning-type external supply. A two-echelon perishable goods supply chain was analyzed, and three kinds of contingency strategy models for downstream retailers were investigated. First, in the sufficient external supply scenario, the optimal price and transshipment quantity to maximize retailer's profits is discussed. Second, in the scenario of learning-type external supply, this study analyzes the optimal decision in three mechanisms of the hybrid strategy and their application: price priority mechanism, quantity priority mechanism and price–quantity balance mechanism. Furthermore, the influence of penalty cost and supply on the priority orders of different mechanisms was studied.

Findings

Results show that comparing the two pure strategies (pricing strategy and transshipment strategy)it was noted that the hybrid strategy produces the best results in sufficient-type external supply scenario. In the learning-type external supply scenario, a numerical study has shown the existence of three areas in case of penalty cost and supplier's capacity, and each areas has different priority orders of the three mechanisms. Under the situation of learning external supply, the retailer's optimal strategy is affected by parameters such as penalty cost and supply volume.

Originality/value

The main innovation of the work lies in the following: First; the external supply situation was divided into sufficiency type and learning type, which improves the external situation faced by retailers after the outbreak of emergencies, helps retailers understand the external situation, conforms to the actual situation and has certain practical application value. Second; in the context of learning external supply, there are three coping strategies for retailers, including: Price priority mechanism, Quantity priority mechanism and Pricing and transshipment balance mechanism. This will help retailers make strategic choices, make more scientific management decisions and improve the supply chain emergency management theory. Third; the demand side response was managed through the change of external supply during supply side recovery period and supply disruption. The proposed model enables managing and analyzing supply disruption efficiently and effectively via handling uncertainty by considering all aspects of decision-making process. The proposed model can be applied in various fields such as vegetable and fruit, fresh food, etc.
Exploring perceived impact of caregiving and coping strategies adopted by family caregivers of people with schizophrenia: a qualitative study in Enugu, South East Nigeria
Authors: Mbadugha Chisom Joy , Ogbonnaya Ngozi Phoebe , Iheanacho Peace Njideka , Omotola Ngozi Joy , Ogbonna Pleasure Nwakaego , Anetekhai Chinenye Juliet
Published: March 2023

Purpose

Schizophrenia, a chronic mental disorder, poses enormous threat to the individual, family and society. The advent of deinstitutionalization of the mentally ill transferred the burden of care to families especially close relatives. Few studies have described the families' subjective views in this context. Hence, this study aimed to explore impacts of caregiving and coping strategies for family caregivers of patients with schizophrenia in Enugu, South East Nigeria.

Design/methodology/approach

A descriptive qualitative design was employed, and 14 family caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia attending federal neuropsychiatric hospital Enugu were purposively selected. A semi-structured interview guide was used to generate information, and the transcribed data were content analyzed using a thematic approach.

Findings

Three major themes and 16 subthemes were derived to reflect the perceived impact of caregiving and coping strategies of family caregivers, which include burden of care (physical-self neglect, ill health, sleep deprivation; psychological-gross irritability, ruminations; social-stigmatization, social restrictions, diminished connections, reduced productivity); positive aspects (heightened understanding; empathetic attitude, strengthened ties) and adaptive resources (acceptance, optimism, social support, spiritual devotion).

Originality/value

Family caregivers of individuals with schizophrenia experience bio-psychosocial burden as a result of caregiving. Coping with challenges of caregiving can prevent distress and burnout. Hence, there is need for mental health professionals to recognize caregivers as person in need of emotional and practical support and care for the mentally ill in the context of a family-centered approach.
Native vegetation embedded in landscapes dominated by corn and soybean improves honey bee health and productivity
Authors: Zhang Ge , Murray Caroline J. , St. Clair Ashley L. , Cass Randall P. , Dolezal Adam G. , Schulte Lisa A. , Toth Amy L. , O'Neal Matthew E.
Published: March 2023

Balancing demand for food while supporting biodiversity and ecosystem services in landscapes committed to crop production may require integrating conservation with agriculture. Adding strips of diverse, native, perennial vegetation, through the recently created prairie strips practice of the U.S. Conservation Reserve Program, into annual cropland reduces soil and nutrient loss, and supports more diverse and abundant communities of birds and insects, including native pollinators. It remains unclear if prairie strips can reverse declines in the health and productivity of the exotic honey bee in the U.S.

This study determined if prairie strips provide floral resources to honey bees and support colony vigour, in a highly farmed landscape with limited perennial habitat. We hypothesized that honey bee health and productivity would be improved if given access to prairie strips, and this hypothesis was tested in a multi‐year, replicated, longitudinal study on commercial, conventional farms committed to corn and soybean production with and without prairie strips. We predicted that prairie strips would have more diverse flowering plants, and colonies located in these strips would be healthier and more productive than colonies kept at farms without purposefully established native vegetation (i.e. control fields).

We found that prairie strips had more diverse flowering plants and abundant floral resources than control fields. Colonies kept at fields with prairie strips collected 50% more pollen during the growing season (June–September), had a 24% larger end‐of‐season worker bee populations, and 20% higher overwinter survival than colonies kept at control fields. Furthermore, colonies kept at prairie strips were 24% heavier when they reached their peak‐weight in August, an indicator of honey production.

Honey bees collected pollen from flowering plants found in prairie strips, revealing the potential for interactions with wild pollinators. However, this was limited to 50% of the taxa in prairie strips, suggesting honey bees may not deplete all of the food resources simultaneously used by wild pollinators.

Synthesis and applications. Our results suggest that efforts to enhance habitat diversity within croplands with native plants increase honey bee health and productivity while providing multiple additional ecosystem services important to agriculture.
RGS6 negatively regulates inhibitory G protein signaling in dopamine neurons and positively regulates binge‐like alcohol consumption in mice
Authors: DeBaker Margot C. , Mitten Eric H. , Rose Timothy R. , Marron Fernandez de Velasco Ezequiel , Gao Runbo , Lee Anna M. , Wickman Kevin
Published: March 2023

Background and Purpose

Drugs of abuse, including alcohol, increase dopamine in the mesocorticolimbic system via actions on dopamine neurons in the ventral tegmental area (VTA). Increased dopamine transmission can activate inhibitory G protein signalling pathways in VTA dopamine neurons, including those controlled by GABAB and D2 receptors. Members of the R7 subfamily of regulator of G protein signalling (RGS) proteins can regulate inhibitory G protein signalling, but their influence on VTA dopamine neurons is unclear. Here, we investigated the influence of RGS6, an R7 RGS family memberthat has been implicated in the regulation of alcohol consumption in mice, on inhibitory G protein signalling in VTA dopamine neurons.

Experimental Approach

We used molecular, electrophysiological and genetic approaches to probe the impact of RGS6 on inhibitory G protein signalling in VTA dopamine neurons and on binge‐like alcohol consumption in mice.

Key Results

RGS6 is expressed in adult mouse VTA dopamine neurons and it modulates inhibitory G protein signalling in a receptor‐dependent manner, tempering D2 receptor‐induced somatodendritic currents and accelerating deactivation of synaptically evoked GABAB receptor‐dependent responses. RGS6−/− mice exhibit diminished binge‐like alcohol consumption, a phenotype replicated in female (but not male) mice lacking RGS6 selectively in VTA dopamine neurons.

Conclusions and Implications

RGS6 negatively regulates GABAB‐ and D2 receptor‐dependent inhibitory G protein signalling pathways in mouse VTA dopamine neurons and exerts a sex‐dependent positive influence on binge‐like alcohol consumption in adult mice. As such, RGS6 may represent a new diagnostic and/or therapeutic target for alcohol use disorder.
Media use and the development of racial attitudes among U.S. youth
Authors: Ward L. Monique , Bridgewater Enrica
Published: March 2023

Because media provide a steady stream of models, they are especially poised to offer formative information about race. Yet although U.S. youth consume approximately 7 h of media daily, we know little about how media use contributes to their developing racial attitudes. Instead, research has focused mainly on adults, and studies of youth have developed along separate tracks for youth who are White and BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and people of color). In this article, we first analyze the lack of attention to media effects on the development of racial attitudes, despite their assumed prominence as socializers. Then we summarize research on youth of color and White youth. We conclude with suggestions for building a comprehensive research agenda, including addressing gaps in the associations tested, considering more nuanced assessments of race and media, and integrating approaches across fields.
Vascularized organ bioprinting: From strategy to paradigm
Authors: Wang Heran , Liu Xin , Gu Qi , Zheng Xiongfei
Published: March 2023

Over the past two decades, 3D bioprinting has become a popular research topic worldwide, as it is the most promising approach for manufacturing vascularized organs in vitro. However, transitioning from bioprinting of simple tissue models to real biomedical applications is still a challenge due to incomplete interdisciplinary theoretical knowledge and imperfect multi‐technology integration. This review examines the goals of vasculature manufacturing and proposes new strategic objectives in three stages. We then outline a bidirectional manufacturing strategy consisting of top‐down reconstruction (bioprinting) and bottom‐up regeneration (cellular behaviour). We also provide an in‐depth analysis of the four aspects of design, ink, printing and culture. Furthermore, we present the ‘construction‐comprehension cycle’ research paradigm and the ‘math‐model‐based batch insights generator’ research paradigm for the future, which may have the potential to revolutionize the biomedical field.
Clinicopathological features and immunophenotype of Silva pattern system in endocervical adenocarcinoma
Authors: Zeng Chao , Wu Jin‐ke , Lu Xiaofang
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate the correlation between Silva pattern system and clinicopathological features of endocervical adenocarcinoma. Moreover, it was to find molecular markers helpful for Silva classification, and thus we also explored the expression levels of invasion, adhesion and proliferation biomarkers in cases of Silva non‐invasive and invasive types. The survival based on Silva pattern system was analysed by Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, Log‐rank test and  a COX risk proportionality model. Sixty samples were chosen to detect the MMP‐2, MMP‐9, u‐PA, E‐cadherin, β‐catenin, EGF, TGF‐α, HDGF, c‐Met and RGN expression by immunohistochemistry. Multivariate analysis showed that pattern A/pattern B/pattern C Silva pattern system provided independent risk factors for prognosis. Our results found the levels of MMP‐2, MMP‐9 and u‐PA were significantly higher in endocervical adenocarcinoma with destructive growth than in the  nondestructive group. The levels of E‐cadherin and β‐catenin were significantly lower in endocervical adenocarcinoma with destructive growth than in the nondestructive group. The levels of EGF, TGF‐α and HDGF were significantly higher in endocervical adenocarcinoma with destructive growth than in the nondestructive group. Compared with ‘non‐invasive/invasive Silva pattern’, this study suggests ‘pattern A/pattern B/pattern C Silva pattern’ could be a better criteria for predicting the prognosis. Furthermore, the dual‐marker combination of ‘MMP‐2 and u‐PA’ and ‘E‐cadherin and β‐catenin’ is very important in the diagnosis of Silva pattern classification.
Indwelling catheter patient experiences and the potential usability and acceptance of the T‐Control® prototype urinary catheter
Authors: Toledo‐Chavarri A. , Bassas‐Parga A. , Endrenyi S. , Luque M. , Bezos‐Daleske C. , Reyero V. , Serrano‐Aguilar P. , Batista‐Miranda J. E.
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study was to analyse the experience of users of indwelling bladder catheters and evaluate the anticipated usability of a prototype of the T‐Control® urinary catheter (without being inserted) by patients who were able to compare the differences between the T‐Control® prototype and other urinary catheters and urinary catheter accessories. A qualitative study was conducted with people who had lived with an indwelling urinary catheter for at least 1 week. Two user‐centred design techniques were applied: patient experience trajectory map and Think Aloud, a method where the participants were able to express their previous experiences, expectations and preferences while manipulating the devices. The experiential trajectory was collected based on a semi‐structured following interviews. Participants were able to manipulate the new T‐Control® and, based on their previous experiences, compare the potential usability of T‐control® with Foley‐type catheter and its accessories All the participants stated that they had experienced negative emotions concerning bladder catheterisation during the trajectory of use, from the initial prescription and adaptation to the follow‐up, and the forced life changes that a permanent catheterisation implies. The most frequent emotions were rejection and sadness. The new T‐Control® device could potentially improve the patient experience, as all participants perceived advantages related to the closure system, ease of use, safety and discretion. Participants also noted its closure system as an advantage and highlighted its ease of use, although one‐handed operation required some learning. Catheters currently on the market are functional, but some patients do not always have a satisfactory experience. This might negatively affect their quality of life, so there is a wide market opportunity for new devices that improve clinical and psychological care. Based on patient evaluation, the new T‐Control® device with a built‐in valve could provide benefits for patients.
Survey of treatment practices for immunocompromised patients with COVID‐19 in Australasia
Authors: Moso Michael A. , Sasadeusz Joe , Morrissey Catherine O. , Bond Katherine , Guy Stephen , Slavin Monica A. , Dendle Claire
Published: March 2023

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) in immunocompromised patients can lead to severe and prolonged illness. Data are limited with regard to management of COVID‐19 in this setting, particularly in persistent or recrudescent infection. The authors conducted an online survey among infectious diseases doctors to determine current approaches to treatment across Australasia. There was marked variability in responses relating to the diagnostic modalities and use of antiviral agents in patients with immunocompromise, highlighting the need for high‐quality studies to guide treatment decisions in this group.
Disparate statin prescribing following hospital discharge for stroke or transient ischemic attack: Findings from COMPASS
Authors: Cummings Doyle M. , Jones Sara , Bushnell Cheryl , Halladay Jacqueline , Hart Stephanie , Kinlaw Alan C. , Psioda Matt , Wen Fang , Sissine Mysha , Duncan Pamela
Published: March 2023

Background

Published guidelines recommend high‐intensity statins following an ischemic stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). The authors examined the potential for disparate patterns of statin prescribing in a cluster randomized trial of transitional care following acute stroke or TIA.

Methods

Medications taken before hospitalization and statins prescribed at discharge among stroke and TIA patients at 27 participating hospitals were examined. Any statin and intensive statin prescribed at discharge were compared by age (<65, 65–75, >75 years), racial category (White vs. Black), sex (male vs. female), and rurality (urban vs. non‐urban) using logistic mixed models.

Results

Among 3211 patients (mean age 67 years; 47% female; 29% Black), 90% and 55%, respectively, were prescribed any statin or intensive statin therapy at discharge. White (vs. Black) patients (0.71, 0.51–0.98) less commonly received any statin prescription, while stroke (vs. TIA) patients (1.90, 1.38–2.62) and those residing in urban areas (1.66, 1.07–2.55) more commonly received any statin prescription. Among those prescribed a statin, only 42% of White and 51% of Black patients >75 years. were prescribed an intensive statin; the OR for intensive statin prescribing was 0.44 for patients >75 years and was similar in a subgroup not on a statin previously.

Conclusion/Relevance

Following stroke or TIA, statin prescribing remains lower in White patients, in those with TIA, and in those in non‐urban areas. Intensive statin prescribing remains limited, particularly in patients >75 years. These data may inform efforts to improve guideline concordant prescribing for post‐stroke patients.
Baseline tumor growth rate highlights the heterogeneity of well differentiated gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors and predicts for increases in Ki67 index over time
Authors: Wang Stephanie J. , Whitman Julia , Paciorek Alan , Le Bryan Khuong , Nakakura Eric K. , Behr Spencer C. , Joseph Nancy , Zhang Li , Hope Thomas A. , Bergsland Emily K.
Published: March 2023

Refined risk stratification for gastroenteropancreatic neuroendocrine tumors (GEP‐NETs) has the potential to improve comparisons of study populations across clinical trials and facilitate drug development. Tumor growth rate (TGR) is a radiological metric with demonstrated prognostic value in well differentiated grade 1 and 2 (G1–2) GEP‐NETs, but little is known about TGR in G3 NETs. In this retrospective study of 48 patients with advanced G1–3 GEP‐NET, we calculated baseline TGR (TGR0) from radiological images of metastases acquired prior to first‐line therapy and evaluated its association with disease characteristics and outcomes. The median pretreatment Ki67 proliferation index for G1–3 tumors combined was 5% (range = 0.1%–52%) and median TGR0 was 4.8%/month (m) (range = 0%–45.9%/m). TGR0 correlated with pretreatment Ki67 across G1–3 pooled and within G3 GEP‐NET. Patients with higher TGR0 (>11.7%/m) tumors, which were primarily G3 pancreatic NETs, exhibited decreased time to first therapy (median, 2.2 vs. 5.3 months; p = .03) and shorter overall survival (median, 4.1 years vs. not reached; p = .003). Independent of therapies given, higher TGR0 GEP‐NETs experienced a greater incidence of Ki67 increase (100 vs. 50%; p = .02) and greater magnitude of Ki67 change (median, 14.0 vs. 0.1%; p = .04) upon serial biopsy. Importantly, TGR0, but not grade, predicted for future Ki67 increase in this series. Given the heterogeneity of well differentiated GEP‐NETs, future clinical trials may benefit from stratification for TGR0, particularly in G1–2 tumors, in which TGR0 does not correlate with Ki67. TGR0 has the potential to noninvasively identify patients with previously undiagnosed grade progression and those in whom more or less frequent monitoring may be appropriate. Additional research is needed to determine the prognostic and predictive value of TGR0 in larger and more homogeneously treated cohorts, and to ascertain if post‐treatment TGR has value in previously treated patients starting a new line of therapy.