bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Relationship between innovativeness and competitiveness in networked organizations: A perspective from the electric and electronic industry in Brazil
Authors: Dos‐Santos Sergio M.
Published: April 2021

The construction of innovative environments has been understood as one of the basic conditions for sustaining and expanding the competitive capacity of organizations. This work proposes to fill gaps in the studies about innovativeness effects on competitiveness in emerging countries specifically from the electric and electronic industry perspective. The innovativeness was analysed from three first‐order constructs: organizational learning, predisposition for innovation and innovation diffusivity. Competitiveness was studied by performance. The cross‐section data were collected through a survey with 102 executives from the supply network of the Brazilian electrical and electronic industry and were analysed using descriptive statistics and partial least squares structural equation modelling (PLS‐SEM) techniques. The results indicate that there is a significant positive relationship between innovativeness and competitiveness, highlighting the robustness of two factors (predisposition for innovation and innovation diffusivity), and the three first‐order constructs are significant predictors of competitiveness. The theoretical and managerial implications recommend knowledge‐sharing practices, technical qualification and management incentive to people's innovative attitude as a basis for building innovative environments and expanding competitiveness.
Phase II study of E7777 in Japanese patients with relapsed/refractory peripheral and cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma
Authors: Kawai Hidetsugu , Ando Kiyoshi , Maruyama Dai , Yamamoto Kazuhito , Kiyohara Eiji , Terui Yasuhito , Fukuhara Noriko , Miyagaki Tomomitsu , Tokura Yoshiki , Sakata‐Yanagimoto Mamiko , Igarashi Tadahiko , Kuroda Junya , Fujita Jiro , Uchida Toshiki , Ishikawa Takayuki , Yonekura Kentaro , Kato Koji , Nakanishi Tadashi , Nakai Kenya , Matsunaga Risa , Tobinai Kensei
Published: April 2021

E7777 is a recombinant cytotoxic fusion protein composed of the diphtheria toxin fragments A and B and human interleukin‐2. It shares an amino acid sequence with denileukin diftitox, but has improved purity and an increased percentage of active monomer. We undertook a multicenter, single‐arm phase II study of E7777 in patients with relapsed or refractory peripheral T‐cell lymphoma (PTCL) and cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma (CTCL) to evaluate its efficacy, safety, pharmacokinetics, and immunogenicity. A total of 37 patients were enrolled, of which 17 and 19 patients had PTCL and CTCL, respectively, and one patient with another type of lymphoma (extranodal natural killer/T‐cell lymphoma, nasal type), diagnosed by the Central Pathological Diagnosis Committee. Among the 36 patients with PTCL and CTCL, objective response rate based on the independent review was 36% (41% and 31%, respectively). The median progression‐free survival was 3.1 months (2.1 months in PTCL and 4.2 months in CTCL). The common adverse events (AEs) observed were increased aspartate aminotransferase (AST) / alanine aminotransferase (ALT), hypoalbuminemia, lymphopenia, and pyrexia. Our results indicated that a 9 µg/kg/d dose of E7777 shows efficacy and a manageable safety profile in Japanese patients with relapsed or refractory PTCL and CTCL, with clinical activity observed across the range of CD25 expression. The common AEs were manageable, but increase in ALT / AST, hypoalbuminemia, and capillary leak syndrome should be carefully managed during the treatment.
Enhanced antitumor activity of combined lipid bubble ultrasound and anticancer drugs in gynecological cervical cancers
Authors: Yamaguchi Kohei , Matsumoto Yoko , Suzuki Ryo , Nishida Haruka , Omata Daiki , Inaba Hirofumi , Kukita Asako , Tanikawa Michihiro , Sone Kenbun , Oda Katsutoshi , Osuga Yutaka , Maruyama Kazuo , Fujii Tomoyuki
Published: April 2021

Chemotherapy plays an important role in the treatment of patients with gynecological cancers. Delivering anticancer drugs effectively to tumor cells with just few side effects is key in cancer treatment. Lipid bubbles (LB) are compounds that increase the vascular permeability of the tumor under diagnostic ultrasound (US) exposure and enable the effective transport of drugs to tumor cells. The aim of our study was to establish a novel drug delivery technique for chemotherapy and to identify the most effective anticancer drugs for the bubble US‐mediated drug delivery system (BUS‐DDS) in gynecological cancer treatments. We constructed xenograft models using cervical cancer (HeLa) and uterine endometrial cancer (HEC1B) cell lines. Lipid bubbles were injected i.v., combined with either cisplatin (CDDP), pegylated liposomal doxorubicin (PLD), or bevacizumab, and US was applied to the tumor. We compared the enhanced chemotherapeutic effects of these drugs and determined the optimal drugs for BUS‐DDS. Tumor volume reduction of HeLa and HEC1B xenografts following cisplatin treatment was significantly enhanced by BUS‐DDS. Both CDDP and PLD significantly enhanced the antitumor effects of BUS‐DDS in HeLa tumors; however, volume reduction by BUS‐DDS was insignificant when combined with bevacizumab, a humanized anti‐vascular endothelial growth factor mAb. The BUS‐DDS did not cause any severe adverse events and significantly enhanced the antitumor effects of cytotoxic drugs. The effects of bevacizumab, which were not as dose‐dependent as those of the two drugs used prior, were minimal. Our data suggest that BUS‐DDS technology might help achieve “reinforced targeting” in the treatment of gynecological cancers.
EphB2 knockdown decreases the formation of astroglial‐fibrotic scars to promote nerve regeneration after spinal cord injury in rats
Authors: Wu Jian , Lu Bing , Yang Riyun , Chen Ying , Chen Xue , Li Yi
Published: April 2021

Aims

At the beginning of spinal cord injury (SCI), the expression of EphB2 on fibroblasts and ephrin‐B2 on astrocytes increased simultaneously and their binding triggers the formation of astroglial‐fibrotic scars, which represent a barrier to axonal regeneration. In the present study, we sought to suppress scar formation and to promote recovery from SCI by targeting EphB2 in vivo.

Methods

The female rats SCI models were used in vivo experiments by subsequently injecting with EphB2 shRNA lentiviruses. The effect on EphB2 knockdown was evaluated at 14 days after injury. The repair outcomes were evaluated at 3 months by electrophysiological and morphological assessments to regenerated nerve tissue. The EphB2 expression and TGF‐β1 secretion were detected in vitro using a lipopolysaccharides (LPS)‐induced astrocyte injury model.

Results

RNAi decreased the expression of EphB2 after SCI, which effectively inhibited fibroblasts and astrocytes from aggregating at 14 days. The expression of EphB2 in activated astrocytes, in addition to fibroblasts, was significantly increased after SCI in vivo, in line with upregulated expression of EphB2 and increased secretion of TGF‐β1 in astrocyte culture treated with LPS. Compared to the scramble control, RNAi targeting with EphB2 could promote more nerve regeneration and better myelination.

Conclusions

EphB2 knockdown may effectively inhibit the formation of astroglial‐fibrotic scars at the beginning of SCI. It is beneficial to eliminate the barrier of nerve regeneration.
L‐Se‐methylselenocysteine sensitizes lung carcinoma to chemotherapy
Authors: Ma Jia , Huang Jing , Sun Jinli , Zhou Yanfeng , Ji Xiaoyuan , Guo Daoxia , Liu Chang , Li Jiyu , Zhang Jiye , Song Haiyun
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Organic Selenium (Se) compounds such as L‐Se‐methylselenocysteine (L‐SeMC/SeMC) have been employed as a class of anti‐oxidant to protect normal tissues and organs from chemotherapy‐induced systemic toxicity. However, their comprehensive effects on cancer cell proliferation and tumour progression remain elusive.

Materials and Methods

CCK‐8 assays were conducted to determine the viabilities of cancer cells after exposure to SeMC, chemotherapeutics or combined treatment. Intracellular reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels and lipid peroxidation levels were assessed via fluorescence staining. The efficacy of free drugs or drug‐loaded hydrogel against tumour growth was evaluated in a xenograft mouse model.

Results

Among tested cancer cells and normal cells, the A549 lung adenocarcinoma cells showed higher sensitivity to SeMC exposure. In addition, combined treatments with several types of chemotherapeutics induced synergistic lethality. SeMC promoted lipid peroxidation in A549 cells and thereby increased ROS generation. Significantly, the in vivo efficacy of combination therapy was largely potentiated by hydrogel‐mediate drug delivery.

Conclusions

Our study reveals the selectivity of SeMC in the inhibition of cancer cell proliferation and develops an efficient strategy for local combination therapy.
Depth and breadth relevance in citation metrics
Authors: Stern David I. , Tol Richard S. J.
Published: April 2021

The Euclidean length of a citation list is “depth relevant”: the metric increases when citations are transferred from less to more cited papers. We introduce “breadth relevance,” which favors consistent achievers over one‐hit wonders. The exponent of the CES aggregator then is less than unity rather than greater than unity, as for depth relevance. Using two datasets on citations of economists for the top 50 US and global universities, simply counting citations maximizes the correlation between the citation metrics of researchers and the peer‐reviewed rank of their department. However, citation depth may explain the allocation of researchers across lower‐ranked departments.
Predicting the magnitude of residual spatial autocorrelation in geographical ecology
Authors: Kim Daehyun
Published: April 2021

The level of spatial autocorrelation (SAC) present in model residuals can have a detrimental influence on statistical inferences in geographical ecology. There has been significant progress in understanding the nature and causes of residual SAC and developing new methods to reduce the SAC. However, ecologists have not yet found a suitable answer as to when the level of residual autocorrelation is likely to magnify and whether its shift through spatial regression (i.e. the difference in the residual SAC produced by non‐spatial and spatial approaches) can be predicted using a set of readily available variables. In this paper, I reanalyzed the outcomes reported by Bini et al. (2009), who originally compared the differences in the standardized regression coefficients resulting from non‐spatial ordinary least squares and various spatially explicit methods. Although these researchers were unable to identify reliable predictors of the coefficient shifts, in the present study, I observed that the level of residual autocorrelation significantly and linearly increased with an increase in the magnitude of the SAC inherently possessed by, especially, response and explanatory variables. Moreover, the amount of shift in the residual SAC varied as a linear function of the response and explanatory variables. These findings imply that, in general, specific conditions exist under which there is an increase in the magnitude of the residual SAC, that such a shift can be predicted by the nature and structure of the data sets involved, and that, after all, the residual SAC varies systematically regardless of the selection of the data type, statistical method and spatial scale. I suggest that the level of the SAC present in the input variables can directly indicate how much improvement (i.e. reduction in the residual SAC) a non‐spatial model will experience when a proper spatial approach is employed.
Coexisting Lewy body disease and clinical parkinsonism in amyotrophic lateral sclerosis
Authors: Forrest Shelley L. , Kim Jordan Hanxi , De Sousa Clair , Cheong Rosie , Crockford Daniel R. , Sheedy Donna , Stevens Julia , McCrossin Toni , Tan Rachel H. , McCann Heather , Shepherd Claire E. , Rowe Dominic B. , Kiernan Matthew C. , Halliday Glenda M. , Kril Jillian J.
Published: April 2021

Background

Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) is associated with a range of clinical phenotypes and shows progressive degeneration of upper and/or lower motor neurons, and phosphorylated 43 kDa TAR DNA‐binding protein (pTDP‐43) inclusions in motor and non‐motor pathways. Parkinsonian features have been reported in up to 30% of ALS patients, and Lewy bodies, normally associated with Lewy body disease (LBD), have been reported in a small number of ALS cases, with unknown clinical relevance. This study investigates the prevalence of clinically relevant LBD in a prospectively studied ALS cohort to determine whether concomitant pathology contributes to the clinical heterogeneity.

Methods

All ALS cases held by the New South Wales Brain Bank (n = 97) were screened for coexisting LBD consistent with clinical disease (Braak ≥ stage IV). Relevant clinical and genetic associations were determined.

Results

Six cases had coexisting LBD Braak ≥ stage IV pathology. The age at symptom onset (69 ± 7 years) and disease duration (4 ± 3 years) in ALS cases with coexisting LBD did not differ from ALS cases. Three patients had lower limb onset and two patients had bulbar onset. Two patients developed the clinical features of Parkinson's disease, with one receiving a dual diagnosis. All cases had no known relevant family history or genetic abnormalities.

Conclusion

The prevalence of clinically relevant LBD pathology in ALS is higher than in the general population, and has implications for clinical and neuropathological diagnoses and the identification of biomarkers.
Cross‐sectional area reference values for peripheral nerve ultrasound in adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis—Part II: Lower extremity nerves
Authors: Fisse Anna Lena , Katsanos Aristeidis H. , Gold Ralf , Krogias Christos , Pitarokoili Kalliopi
Published: April 2021

Background and purpose

Measurement of the cross‐sectional area (CSA) of peripheral nerves using ultrasound is useful in the evaluation of focal lesions such as entrapment syndromes and inflammatory polyneuropathies. We performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis of published CSA reference values for lower extremity nerves.

Methods

We included available‐to‐date nerve ultrasound studies on healthy adults and provide meta‐analysis for CSA of the following nerves: fibular nerve at fibular head, popliteal fossa; tibial nerve at popliteal fossa, malleolus; and sural nerve at the level of the two heads of gastrocnemius muscle. We report regression and correlation analyses for age, gender distribution, height, weight, and geographic continent.

Results

We included 16 studies with 1001 healthy volunteers (mean age = 47.9 years) and 4023 examined nerve sites. Calculated mean pooled CSA of fibular nerve at fibular head was 8.4 mm2 (95% confidence interval [CI] = 6.8–9.9 mm2, n = 1166), at popliteal fossa was 7.9 mm2 (95% CI = 6.6–9.2 mm2, n = 995), of tibial nerve at popliteal fossa was 25.9 mm2 (95% CI = 17.5–34.4 mm2, n = 771), at malleolus was 10.0 mm2 (95% CI = 7.7–12.4 mm2, n = 779), and of sural nerve was 2.4 mm2 (95% CI = 1.7–3.1 mm2, n = 312). Substantial heterogeneity across studies (I2 > 50%) was found only for tibial nerve at popliteal fossa. Subgroup analysis revealed a lower CSA of tibial nerve at popliteal fossa and sural nerve in studies conducted in Europe than in North America and New Zealand.

Conclusions

We provide the first meta‐analysis on CSA reference values for the lower extremities with no or low heterogeneity of reported CSA values in all nerve sites except tibial nerve at popliteal fossa. Our data facilitate the goal of an international standardized evaluation protocol.
Analytical methods for the investigation of enzyme‐catalyzed degradation of polyethylene terephthalate
Authors: Pirillo Valentina , Pollegioni Loredano , Molla Gianluca
Published: April 2021

The polyester PET (poly(ethylene terephthalate)) plastic is chemically inert and remarkably persistent, posing relevant and global pollution concerns due to its accumulation in ecosystems across the globe. In past years, research focused on identifying bacteria active on PET and on the specific enzymes responsible for its degradation. Here, the enzymatic degradation of PET can be considered as an ‘erosion process’ that takes place on the surface of an insoluble material and results in an unusual, substrate‐limited kinetic condition. In this review, we report on the most suitable models to evaluate the kinetics of PET‐hydrolyzing enzymes, which takes into consideration the amount of enzyme adsorbed on the substrate, the enzyme‐accessible ester bonds, and the product inhibition effects. Careful kinetic analysis is especially relevant to compare enzymes from different sources and evolved variants generated by protein engineering studies as well. Furthermore, the analytical methods most suitable to screen natural bacteria and recombinant variant libraries generated by protein engineering have been also reported. These methods rely on different detection systems and are performed both on model compounds and on different PET samples (e.g., nanoparticles, microparticles, and waste products). All this meaningful information represents an optimal starting point and boosts the process of identifying systems able to biologically recycle PET waste products.
The impact of trading behavioral biases on market liquidity under different volatility levels: Evidence from the Chinese commodity futures market
Authors: Liu Qingfu , Tse Yiuman , Zheng Kaixin
Published: April 2021

This paper investigates a sample of 15 Chinese commodity futures to examine the impact of trading behavioral biases on market liquidity under different volatility levels. We construct a measure of shocks driven by news on market fundamentals to capture rational trading behavior and a measure of irrational trading behavior from excess skewness, excess kurtosis, and excess turnover. We find that herding causes deterioration in liquidity mainly by affecting order imbalance, whereas overtrading improves market liquidity by increasing market depth. The disposition effect is identified only when volatility is higher, after a distinction is made between up and down markets.
Female board directors' resilience against gender discrimination
Authors: Goyal Rita , Kakabadse Nada , Kakabadse Andrew , Talbot Danielle
Published: April 2021

Despite regulatory efforts to promote gender diversity on boards, women are still severely underrepresented in board leadership in the UK, beyond FTSE 100 companies. Evidence suggests that women, when poorly represented in the workplace, are more likely to suffer discrimination. In this study, we report the first‐hand experiences of gender discrimination suffered by female directors and present the process of how they build resilience through developing coping strategies. Such resilience‐building processes seem to vary with the length of board experience of female directors. At the outset of their board journey, they adopt avoidant coping strategies of denial and disengagement. However, with experience in boards, they gain the confidence to pursue the active coping strategy of seeking and extending support. This qualitative study is based on 42 elite interviews of board directors and is guided by the resilience theory, in the context of top FTSE boards. The article also discusses the contribution of the study to theory, praxis, and policy.
Career resilience of female professionals in the male‐dominated IT industry in Sweden: Toward a process perspective
Authors: Tokbaeva Dinara , Achtenhagen Leona
Published: April 2021

Sweden is known to be one of the most gender‐equal societies in the world. Thus, it remains as an enigma why a large discrepancy continues to exist regarding the gender balance in career choice and progression in many professions. Drawing on Hirdman's (1988) theory of gendered systems, in this paper, we explore the role of career resilience in the career progression of women who choose to work in the male‐dominated IT sector. We draw attention to how the day‐to‐day process of practicing career resilience in a gendered workplace tends to evolve as women progress in their careers. Based on an interview study with 50 female IT professionals as well as a discourse analysis of 502 newspaper articles on women in this sector, we develop a process model of career resilience in gendered professions, outlining different coping strategies that allow women to develop and enhance such resilience over time. We conclude the paper by providing some practical recommendations.
A mapping and synthesis of tools for stakeholder and community engagement in quality improvement initiatives for reproductive, maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health
Authors: Spencer Jessie , Gilmore Brynne , Lodenstein Elsbet , Portela Anayda
Published: April 2021

Background

Stakeholder and community engagement promotes collaboration and gives service users an opportunity to actively participate in the care they receive. Recognizing this potential, The Network for Improving Quality of Care for maternal, newborn and child health aimed to identify tools and operational guidance to integrate stakeholder and community engagement into quality improvement (QI) implementation.

Methods

A mapping, consisting of a literature review and an open call through email and listservers, for implementation tools was conducted. Materials were included if they provided guidance on stakeholder and community engagement aligned to the Network's QI framework comprising seven phases. Screening of tools was done by two reviewers.

Results

The literature search and the call for tools returned 197 documents with 70 tools included after screening. Most included tools (70%) were published after 2010. International organizations were the most frequently cited authors of tools. Only 15 tools covered all seven phases of the QI framework; few tools covered the more ‘technical’ phase of the QI framework: adapting standards and refining strategies.

Conclusion

The quantity of tools and their varied characteristics including types of stakeholder and community engagement processes across the QI framework confirms that engagement cannot be captured in a ‘one‐size‐fits‐all’ formula. Many tools were designed with a generic focus to allow for adaption and use in different settings and sectors. Country programmes looking to strengthen engagement approaches can take advantage of available tools through an online portal on the WHO website and adapt them to meet their specific needs and context.

Public Involvement

Programme implementers provided tools and resources during data collection.
Predictors of in‐hospital mortality among HIV‐positive patients presenting with an acute illness to the emergency department
Authors: Laher AE , Paruk F , Venter WDF , Ayeni OA , Richards GA
Published: April 2021

Objectives

Despite better access to antiretroviral therapy (ART) over recent years, HIV remains a major global cause of mortality. The present study aimed to identify predictors of in‐hospital mortality among HIV‐positive patients presenting to an emergency department (ED).

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, HIV‐positive patients presenting to the Charlotte Maxeke Johannesburg Academic Hospital adult ED between 07 July 2017 and 18 October 2018 were prospectively enrolled. Data were compared between participants who survived to hospital discharge and those who died. The data were further subjected to univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses to determine variables that were associated with in‐hospital mortality.

Results

Of a total of 1224 participants, the in‐hospital mortality was 13.6% (n = 166). On multivariate analysis, respiratory rate > 20 breaths/min [odds ratio (OR) = 1.90, P = 0.012], creatinine > 120 μmol/L (OR = 1.97, P = 0.006), oxygen saturation < 90% (OR = 2.09, P = 0.011), white cell count < 4.0 × 109/L (OR = 2.09, P = 0.008), ART non‐adherence or not yet on ART (OR = 2.39, P = 0.012), Glasgow Coma Scale < 15 (OR = 2.53, P = 0.000), albumin < 35 g/L (OR = 2.61, P = 0.002), lactate > 2 mmol/L (OR = 4.83, P = 0.000) and cryptococcal meningitis (OR = 6.78, P = 0.000) were significantly associated with in‐hospital mortality.

Conclusions

Routine clinical and laboratory parameters are useful predictors of in‐hospital mortality in HIV‐positive patients presenting to the ED with an acute illness. These parameters may be of value in guiding clinical decision‐making, directing the appropriate use of resources and influencing patient disposition, and may also be useful in developing an outcome prediction tool.
Suicidal behaviour and the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic: Insights from Durkheim's sociology of suicide
Authors: Khan Anisur Rahman , Shimul S.M. Anowarul Kayes , Arendse Najuwa
Published: April 2021

Whilst suicide is well established as a critical global public health burden causing around 800,000 deaths annually along with many more attempts, there is a concern that the impact of the coronavirus (COVID‐19) pandemic might intensify suicidality. The purpose of this study is to draw attention to the budding correlation between the COVID‐19 pandemic and suicidality from the theoretical perspective of Emile Durkheim's sociology of suicide. A review of online newspaper databases (1 January to 30 April 2020) that reported suicide cases and attempts triggered as a result of the disruptions caused by the COVID‐19 pandemic were included and analysed. Out of the 28 identified cases, there were three suicide attempts, one homicide‐suicide/pact‐suicide, and 24 suicides spanning 10 countries. Durkheim explained the social causation of suicide and provided a four‐fold suicide typology. The cases were analysed according to their appropriate typology, and classified as egoistic (9), altruistic (3), anomic (8), and fatalistic (8). Durkheim suggests that the rise and fall of suicide rates will depend on the nature of social change. As society is undergoing massive social disruption resulting from the COVID‐19 pandemic, suicide rates may increase unless suicide prevention measures align with the current social reconstruction process.
Pyridoxamine ameliorates methylglyoxal‐induced macrophage dysfunction to facilitate tissue repair in diabetic wounds
Authors: Jiang Minfei , Yakupu Aobuliaximu , Guan Haonan , Dong Jiaoyun , Liu Yingkai , Song Fei , Tang Jiajun , Tian Ming , Niu Yiwen , Lu Shuliang
Published: April 2021

Methylglyoxal (MGO) is a highly reactive dicarbonyl compound formed during hyperglycaemia. MGO combines with proteins to form advanced glycation end products (AGEs), leading to cellular dysfunction and organ damage. In type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), the higher the plasma MGO concentration, the higher the lower extremity amputation rate. Here, we aimed to identify the mechanisms of MGO‐induced dysfunction. We observed that the accumulation of MGO‐derived AGEs in human diabetic wounds increased, whereas the expression of glyoxalase 1 (GLO1), a key metabolic enzyme of MGO, decreased. We show for the first time that topical application of pyridoxamine (PM), a natural vitamin B6 analogue, reduced the accumulation of MGO‐derived AGEs in the wound tissue of type‐2 diabetic mice, promoted the influx of macrophages in the early stage of tissue repair, improved the dysfunctional inflammatory response, and accelerated wound healing. In vitro, MGO damaged the phagocytic functions of M1‐like macrophages induced by lipopolysaccharide (LPS), but not those of M0‐like macrophages induced by PMA or of M2‐like macrophages induced by interleukins 4 (IL‐4) and 13 (IL‐13); the impaired phagocytosis of M1‐like macrophages was rescued by PM administration. These findings suggest that the increase in MGO metabolism in vivo might contribute to macrophage dysfunction, thereby affecting wound healing. Our results indicate that PM may be a novel therapeutic approach for treating diabetic wounds. MGO forms protein adducts that cause macrophage dysfunction. These adducts cause cell and organ dysfunction that is common in diabetes. Pyridoxamine scavenges MGO to ameliorate this dysfunction, promoting wound healing. Pyridoxamine could be used therapeutically to treat non‐healing diabetic wounds.
The ROX index can be a useful tool for the triage evaluation of COVID‐19 patients with dyspnoea
Authors: Zaboli Arian , Ausserhofer Dietmar , Pfeifer Norbert , Sibilio Serena , Tezza Giovanna , Ciccariello Laura , Turcato Gianni
Published: April 2021

Aim

To assess whether the application of a non‐invasive tool, such as ratio of oxygen saturation (ROX) index, during triage can identify patients with COVID‐19 at high risk of developing acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS).

Design

A multi‐centre, observational, retrospective study.

Methods

Only COVID‐19 positive patients who required an emergency department evaluation for dyspnoea were considered. The primary objective of the study was to compare the ROX value obtained during triage with the medical diagnosis of ARDS and intubation in 72 h of the triage evaluation. The ROX index value was also compared with objective outcomes, such as the pressure of arterial O2 (PaO2)/fraction of inspired oxygen (FiO2) ratio and the lung parenchyma volume involved in COVID‐19‐related inflammatory processes, based on 3D reconstructions of chest computed tomography (CT).

Results

During the study period, from 20 March 2020 until 31 May 2020, a total of 273 patients with confirmed SARS‐CoV‐2 infection were enrolled. The predictive ability of ROX for the risk of developing ARDS in 72 h after triage evaluation was associated with an area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUROC) of 0.845 (0.797–0.892, p < 0.001), whereas the AUROC value was 0.727 (0.634–0.821, p < 0.001) for the risk of intubation. ROX values were strongly correlated with PaO2/FiO2 values (r = 0.650, p < 0.001), decreased ROX values were associated with increased percentages of lung involvement based on 3D CT reconstruction (r = −0.371, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The ROX index showed a good ability to identify triage patients at high evolutionary risk. Correlations with objective but more invasive indicators (PaO2/FiO2 and CT) confirmed the important role of ROX in identifying COVID‐19 patients with extensive pathological processes.

Impact

During the difficult triage evaluation of COVID‐19 patients, the ROX index can help the nurse to identify the real severity of the patient. The triage systems could integrate the ROX in the rapid patient assessment to stratify patients more accurately.
Lemon sole Microstomus kitt in the northern North Sea: a multidisciplinary approach to the early life‐history dynamics
Authors: Geffen Audrey J. , Albretsen Jon , Huwer Bastian , Nash Richard D. M.
Published: April 2021

Lemon sole Microstomus kitt is a commercially valuable flatfish species that occurs in shelf waters around the northeast Atlantic. Only the most basic life‐history information is available for the North Sea. Spawning is generally assumed to occur between early May and October, with a peak between May and August. Lemon sole larvae have been found in the water column in the northern North Sea in winter during standard surveys. Larvae captured in November/December 2016 and January/February 2017 using the International Council for the Exploration of the Seas standard 2 m Midwater Ring trawls (MIK) were analysed to gain a better understanding of the pelagic early life‐history stages of lemon sole, especially in relation to the timing of spawning and the dispersal of overwintering larvae. Larval age was estimated from sagittal otolith primary increment counts. The larvae caught in November/December ranged in nominal age from 4 to 45 days post‐hatching which suggests that spawning continues into late October and November. Most, but not all, of the larvae caught in January/February were post metamorphosis, and the difference in age between the two sampling dates was consistent with the elapsed time between samplings. The estimated hatching dates confirm that lemon sole spawning extends into late autumn in the northern North Sea, with overwintering larvae in all developmental stages. Drift modelling of eggs and larvae released at historically documented spawning grounds in the northern North Sea suggests that these grounds are also the source for all of the larvae sampled during the 2016–2017 surveys.
Functional morphology of the cornea of the Little PenguinEudyptula minor(Aves)
Authors: Collin Shaun P. , Collin H. Barry
Published: April 2021

The cornea is a specialized component of the vertebrate eye that provides protection, refractive power, transparency for optical imaging and mechanical support. However, the corneas of birds have received little attention with no comprehensive study of their functional morphology. Using light microscopy and both scanning and transmission electron microscopy, the first description of the ultrastructure of all of the main components of the cornea in two different‐sized individuals of the Little PenguinEudyptula minoris presented. Two types of microprojections protrude from the surface of the cornea with a predominance of microridges and microvilli found in central (flattened) and peripheral regions, respectively. Epithelial cell density is higher in peripheral cornea, especially in the larger (older) individual, while there is a reduction of epithelial cell density with age. The cornea comprises a thick epithelium uniquely attached to the basement membrane with numerous incursions rather than anchoring fibres and anchoring plaques as is found in other vertebrate corneas. Posterior to Bowman's layer, the orthogonally‐arranged collagen fibril lamellae in the stroma form extensive branches and anastomoses. Desçemet's membrane is well‐developed with an anterior or foetal portion with long banding. However, the thickness of Desçemet's membrane is larger in the older individual with the inclusion of an additional irregular pale‐staining posterior portion. Polygonal endothelial cells extend across the cornea as a monolayer with often tortuous cell junctions. Endothelial cell density increases towards the periphery, but decreases with age. Primary cilia are observed protruding through the central region of some endothelial cells into the anterior segment but subsurface structures resembling cilia suggest that these features may be more common. The ultrastructure of the corneal components reveals a range of functional adaptations that reflect the amphibious lifestyle of this seabird.
A review of combined treatments for melasma involving energy‐based devices and proposed pathogenesis‐oriented combinations
Authors: Mehrabi Joseph N. , Bar‐Ilan Efrat , Wasim Shehadeh , Koren Amir , Zusmanovitch Lior , Salameh Fares , Isman Nelkenbaum Gila , Horovitz Tamir , Zur Eyal , Song Lim Ting , Mashiah Jacob , Artzi Ofir
Published: April 2021

Background

Melasma is an acquired disorder of hyperpigmentation, affecting a million individuals worldwide. Energy‐based devices (EBDs) employed to treat melasma include various types of lasers, intense pulsed light (IPL), and radiofrequency (RF). Recent studies have attempted to address recalcitrant and recurring melasma by combining energy‐based devices with topical or oral medications.

Objective

This article reviews EBDs‐based augmented treatment for melasma and suggests practical pathogenesis‐oriented treatment regimens. Treatment algorithms are proposed to address various components of melasma.

Methods

A systematic PubMed search was conducted acquiring information from various studies on combination treatments of melasma involving EBDs.

Results

The 286 retrieved articles were filtered by title to contain at least one type of energy‐based modality such as laser, IPL, or RF along with at least one other treatment method. Based on their subject matter, combinations were further categorized into the subheadings: laser plus medication, laser plus laser, and IPL‐ and RF‐containing treatment methods.

Conclusion

There are many energy‐based combination treatments that have been explored for mitigation of melasma including laser therapy with medication, multi‐laser therapies, IPL, RF, and microneedling devices. Melasma is an exceedingly difficult condition to treat, however, choosing the appropriate tailor‐made treatment combination can improve the final outcome.
Comparing novel versus conventional technique of platelet‐rich plasma therapy in periorbital hyperpigmentation: A randomized prospective split‐face study
Authors: Budania Anil , Mandal Saptarshi , Pathania Yashdeep Singh , Lahoria Utkrist , Khan Md. Atik , Puri Inder , Mishra Richa
Published: April 2021

Background

Platelet‐rich plasma (PRP) has been found to be effective in treating periorbital hyperpigmentation (POH). PRP prepared by double‐spin (DS) method and activated by calcium has been used conventionally. PRP can be prepared by single spin (SS) and activated at low temperature (novel method), but the evidence is limited.

Objective

To compare the novel and conventional PRP in the treatment of periorbital hyperpigmentation.

Methods

We selected 21 patients of POH and randomly divided the face into two halves. One‐half of the face (group A) was treated with novel PRP (SS and low‐temperature activation). The other half (group B) was treated with conventional PRP (DS and calcium activation). A total of 3 PRP injections were given at 4 weekly intervals. Patients were observed and assessed on 12th week by photography, dermoscopy, visual analog scale (VAS) score, and Dermatology life quality index (DLQI). Platelet counts and growth factors were assessed in PRP.

Results

Mean platelet count in novel and conventional PRP was 7.41 ± 1.76 lacs and 8.17 ± 2.23 lacs (p = 0.348). Mean photographic and dermoscopic assessment at the end of the study in group A and group B was 52.33 ± 6.468 and 53.14 ± 6.99 (p = 0.151). Change in VAS in groups A and B was 3.85 ± 1.27 and 3.90 ± 1.04 (p = 0.895). Levels of various growth factors assessed by ELISA did not differ significantly. There was significant decline in DLQI.

Conclusion

The novel method is not inferior to conventional method of PRP in the treatment of periorbital hyperpigmentation.
MRI topography of lesions related to internuclear ophthalmoplegia in patients with multiple sclerosis or ischemic stroke
Authors: Kleinsorge Marie T. , Ebert Anne , Förster Alex , Weber Claudia E. , Roßmanith Christina , Platten Michael , Gass Achim , Eisele Philipp
Published: April 2021

Background and Purpose

Internuclear ophthalmoplegia is a dysfunction of conjugate eye movements, caused by lesions affecting the medial longitudinal fasciculus (MLF). Multiple sclerosis (MS) and ischemic stroke represent the most common pathophysiologies. While magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows for localizing lesions affecting the MLF, comprehensive comparative studies exploring potential different spatial characteristics of lesions affecting the MLF are missing until now.

Methods

We retrospectively investigated MRI examinations of 82 patients (40 patients with MS and 42 patients with ischemic stroke). For lesion localization, the brainstem was segmented into (1) ponto‐medullary junction, (2) mid pons, (3) upper pons, and (4) mesencephalon.

Results

Corresponding lesions affecting the MLF were observed in 29/40 (72.5%) MS and 38/42 (90.5%) stroke patients. Compared to stroke patients, MS patients had significantly more lesions in multiple locations (P < .001). Stroke patients showed more lesions at the level of the mesencephalon (P < .001), while lesions at the level of the ponto‐medullary junction, mid, and upper pons did not statistically differ between the groups.

Conclusion

Our results demonstrate that multiple lesions affecting the MLF make inflammatory‐demyelination due to MS more likely, while lesion localization at the level of the mesencephalon favors ischemia.
Risk attitudes and migration decisions
Authors: Roca Paz Roberto , Uebelmesser Silke
Published: April 2021

This paper analyzes the relationship between individuals' attitudes towards risk and their decision to migrate. We consider migration in the United States across metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) between 1997 and 2015, based on data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics (PSID). Using random‐effects specifications, we find that being relatively more willing to take risks is positively and significantly related to cross‐MSA migration. For cross‐state migration and migration across larger distances, risk attitudes are slightly more important. A recursive bivariate probit model of simultaneous equations addresses the potential endogenous nature of attitudes towards risk and allows ruling out reverse causality.
Reptin/RUVBL2 is required for hepatocyte proliferation in vivo, liver regeneration and homeostasis
Authors: Javary Joaquim , Allain Nathalie , Ezzoukhry Zakaria , Di Tommaso Sylvaine , Dupuy Jean‐William , Costet Pierre , Dugot‐Senant Nathalie , Saltel Frédéric , Moreau Violaine , Dubus Pierre , Benhamouche‐Trouillet Samira
Published: April 2021

Previous studies have shown that Reptin is overexpressed in hepatocellular carcinoma and that it is necessary for in vitro proliferation and cell survival. However, its pathophysiological role in vivo remains unknown. We aimed to study the role of Reptin in hepatocyte proliferation after regeneration using a liver Reptin knock‐out model (ReptinLKO). Interestingly, hepatocyte proliferation is strongly impaired in ReptinLKO mice 36 h after partial hepatectomy, associated with a decrease of cyclin‐A expression and mTORC1 and MAPK signalling, leading to an impaired liver regeneration. Moreover, in the ReptinLKO model, we have observed a progressive loss of Reptin invalidation associated with an atypical liver regeneration. Hypertrophic and proliferative hepatocytes gradually replace ReptinKO hypotrophic hepatocytes. To conclude, our results show that Reptin is required for hepatocyte proliferation in vivo and liver regeneration and that it plays a crucial role in hepatocyte survival and liver homeostasis.
Views of Bedouin physicians and nurses on nursing as a profession in Israel: There is more to strive for
Authors: Abu Rabia Rasmiya , Hendel Tova , Kagan Ilya
Published: April 2021

Bedouin society poses challenges to attempts at modernization. Great efforts are being made to expand the number of nurses coming from the Bedouin population. This cross‐sectional study among 201 Bedouin nurses and physicians from southern Israel examined differences in their views on nursing as a profession and its relationship to the working environment, using a self‐administered questionnaire. Bedouin physicians demonstrated less positive attitudes towards the nursing profession than did nurses, but perceived the nursing work environment more positively. Compared to nurses, physicians ranked both nurses’ involvement in policy practice and their clinical contribution to quality care lower, but scored nurses’ dependence on physicians’ orders higher. They also ranked teamwork and professional nursing development higher, and the autonomy of nurses lower. In conclusion, the perception of nursing as a profession in Bedouin society is linked to cultural fundamentals, gender, and the social status of women. Managers of multicultural teams, especially those including Bedouin‐origin healthcare workers, should be aware of the effect of cultural background and should take care to address social disparities and eliminate differences in perspectives.
Evaluating the tradeoff between offspring number and survivorship across fishes, amphibians, reptiles and mammals
Authors: Anderson David M. , Gillooly James F.
Published: April 2021

Species differ widely in their strategies of resource allocation to offspring mass and number, ranging from teleost fishes and amphibians that produce many tiny offspring to reptiles and mammals that produce relatively few large offspring. Tradeoffs between offspring survivorship and fecundity are thought to limit the success of any particular reproductive strategy, but these tradeoffs have not been evaluated quantitatively across the full range of variability in offspring size and number. Here we examine the relationship of offspring size to reproductive success (i.e. fitness) within and across teleost fishes, amphibians, reptiles and mammals. To do so, we evaluate the relationships of offspring mass to survivorship (proportion of offspring surviving to maturity) and to fecundity (no. offspring/time). We show that survivorship tends to increase in proportion with relative offspring mass (offspring mass/adult mass), whereas fecundity, normalized to offspring biomass production rate, tends to decrease in proportion with offspring mass. Consequently, the product of survivorship and fecundity – reproductive success – is generally independent of offspring mass. Thus, our results show quantitatively how survivorship and fecundity tradeoff across diverse taxa to limit reproductive success.
The feather pattern autosomal barring in chicken is strongly associated with segregation at the MC1R locus
Authors: Schwochow Doreen , Bornelöv Susanne , Jiang Tingxing , Li Jingyi , Gourichon David , Bed’Hom Bertrand , Dorshorst Ben J. , Chuong Cheng‐Ming , Tixier‐Boichard Michèle , Andersson Leif
Published: April 2021

Color patterns within individual feathers are common in birds but little is known about the genetic mechanisms causing such patterns. Here, we investigate the genetic basis for autosomal barring in chicken, a horizontal striping pattern on individual feathers. Using an informative backcross, we demonstrate that the MC1R locus is strongly associated with this phenotype. A deletion at SOX10, underlying the dark brown phenotype on its own, affects the manifestation of the barring pattern. The coding variant L133Q in MC1R is the most likely causal mutation for autosomal barring in this pedigree. Furthermore, a genetic screen across six different breeds showing different patterning phenotypes revealed that the most striking shared characteristics among these breeds were that they all carried the MC1R alleles Birchen or brown. Our data suggest that the presence of activating MC1R mutations enhancing pigment synthesis is an important mechanism underlying pigmentation patterns on individual feathers in chicken. We propose that MC1R and its antagonist ASIP play a critical role for determining within‐feather pigmentation patterns in birds by acting as activator and inhibitor possibly in a Turing reaction–diffusion model.
Mental health in Japanese children during school closures due to the COVID‐19
Authors: Saito Mari , Kikuchi Yutaka , Lefor Alan Kawarai , Hoshina Masaru
Published: April 2021

Background

Changes in relationships, sleep rhythms, and physical activity caused by school closures instituted to curb the spread of COVID‐19 influenced children’s mental health. We explored changes in children’s daily life and effects on their mental health during school closures.

Methods

Participants included elementary and junior high school students 9 years of age and older seen in the outpatient clinic during school closures and were required to complete the Japanese version of WHO Five Well‐Being Index (WHO‐5‐J). The results were compared with those of students seen after schools reopened.

Results

Participants included 78 students in the school closure group and 113 in the school reopening group. Although those in the closure group devoted more time to family and sleep, their sleep rhythms, eating habits, and physical activities were disrupted. Although there were no significant differences between the two groups in total WHO‐5‐J scores, single WHO‐5‐J items such as activity and vigor and interest were significantly worse and rest was significantly better in the school closure group.

Conclusion

Although school closures resulted in elementary and junior high school students spending more time with family and sleeping, their sleep rhythms, eating habits, and physical activities were disrupted. As the children’s living environment changed, they felt less active and vigorous and had difficulty finding things that interested them. However, their sleep improved and overall, the number of children with potential mental health problems did not change.