bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Animal work before capitalism: Sheep's reproductive labor in the ancient South Caucasus
Authors: Chazin Hannah
Published: September 2023

Recent anthropological interest in “animal work” has focused on contemporary human‐animal relations. This article explores the “provocation” of animal work in the deeper past through an analysis of human‐herd animal relations in the Late Bronze Age (1500–1100 BCE) in the South Caucasus. Zooarchaeological and isotopic data reveal unexpected traces of the complexity and diversity of human and animal labor, with implications for political life. Challenging the anthropocentrism of (zoo)archaeological practice, animal labor provides a starting point for repurposing standard tools to ask new questions. Engaging with critical ethnographic perspectives on (animal) work, I consider how the question of animal work in the deeper past raises important questions about labor prior to or outside of capitalism—and its relationship to hierarchy and inequality, and the implications for archaeology more broadly. This challenge to narratives, within and beyond archaeology, that treat production in the deeper past as the origin or a prototype of production and inequality under capitalism also undermines accounts that link contemporary human‐animal relations to an origin in the deep past.
XIII International Conference on Kangaroo Mother Care – Different opinions, experiences and related KMC issues: Good practices, stabilisation concept, nutrition and basic respiratory support
Authors: Pallás‐Alonso Carmen , Montealegre Adriana , Hernández‐Aguilar María Teresa , Muñoz‐Amat Bárbara , Collados‐Gómez Laura , Jiménez‐Fernández Lucía , García‐Lara Nadia , Cabrera‐Lafuente Marta , Moral‐Pumarega María Teresa , López‐Maestro María , Charpak Nathalie
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study aimed to summarise the views and experiences of the participants in the workshop of the XIII International Conference on Kangaroo Mother Care (KMC).

Methods

The results of the discussions held during the workshop of the XIII International Conference on KMC were summarised. There were 152 participants from 47 countries. Four main KMC topics were discussed: good practices, immediate implementation, nutrition and basic ventilation.

Results

Several agreements were reached, namely that professional societies and governments should develop official recommendations to promote KMC as standard care for preterm and low birth weight infants and that parents should be involved as active caregivers in neonatal care units. Moreover, the criteria for referring community‐born infants to KMC require standardisation.

Important inequalities in resource availability among high‐, middle‐ and low‐income countries were recognised for all topics. Specific needs were identified for parenteral nutrition and fortifiers, nasal continuous positive airway pressure (nCPAP) and oxygen blenders, which are rarely available in low‐ and middle‐income countries.

Immediate implementation of KMC was discussed as a new concept. Its benefits were recognised, but its application has some variability.

Conclusion

Adequate preterm care requires a basic neonatal package, including KMC, nCPAP, immediate management protocols and adequate nutrition and feeding strategies. The differences in resources among high‐, middle‐ and low‐income countries highlight the wide disparities in neonatal care according to the place of birth.
Editorial: serum oncostatin M at baseline predicts mucosal healing in Crohn’s disease patients treated with infliximab
Authors: Appleton Laura , Day Andrew S.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Bertani et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.15870 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16031
Editorial: new insights into the global prevalence of uninvestigated and functional dyspepsia
Authors: Potter Michael D. E. , Talley Nicholas J.
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Barberio et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16006
Editorial: prevalence, progression rates and mortality predictors of non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease reflected by German statutory health insurance data
Authors: Puengel Tobias , Tacke Frank
Published: September 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Canbay et al paper. To view this article, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.16016
Microbial colonization dynamics of the postnatal digestive tract of Bos indicus calves
Authors: Robles‐Rodríguez Carolina , Muley Vijaykumar Yogesh , González‐Dávalos María Laura , Shimada Armando , Varela‐Echavarría Alfredo , Mora Ofelia
Published: September 2023

The rumen and the jejunum of calves have distinct functional roles; the former is in the storage and fermentation of feed, and the latter is in transporting digesta to the ileum. It is unknown how nutrition changes the evolution of the microbiome of these organs after birth. We sequenced and characterized the entire microbiome of the rumen and the jejunum from Bos indicus calves of the Mexican Tropics to study their dynamics at Days 0, 7, 28, and 42 after birth. Operational taxonomic units (OTUs) belonging to 185 and 222 genera from 15 phylum were observed in the organs, respectively. The most abundant OTUs were Proteobacteria, Firmicutes, Actinobacteria, and Bacteroidetes. We observed that proteobacterial species were outcompeted after the first week of life by Bacteroidetes and Firmicutes in the rumen and the jejunum, respectively. Moreover, Prevotella species were found to predominate in the rumen (36% of total OTUs), while the jejunum microbiome is composed of small proportions of several genera. Presumably, their high relative abundance assists in specialized functions and is more likely in fermentation since they are anaerobes. In summary, the rumen and the jejunum microbiomes were outcompeted by new microbiomes in a dynamic process that begins at birth.
Personal tales of venous thromboembolism in the UK the last 60 years: from no interest to clinical excellence
Authors: Hunt Beverley J.
Published: September 2023

Sixty years ago there was little interest in venous thromboembolism (VTE) in global medical circles, and the British were no different in this respect. And yet, from nowhere the clinical field has developed: now prevention and management of VTE accounts for a large part of many consultant haematologists’ working life, while some nursing staff and pharmacists spend the majority of their clinical time in this area. Indeed the ‘Brits’ have developed enormous VTE expertise and arguably lead the world in prevention of 60% of all VTE, which is hospital‐associated venous thromboembolism (HAT).
The genesis of paediatric haematology in the UK
Authors: Roberts Irene , Hann Ian
Published: September 2023

Paediatric haematology began to establish itself as a speciality in the UK just over 60 years ago. In that time, clinical trials involving all the specialist centres in the country, and based on scientific advances, have dramatically improved the outlook for children with a range of malignant and non‐malignant disorders, but particularly acute leukaemia. As in many specialties, multidisciplinary teams have played a major role in delivering these advances. With these structures in place at a national level, perhaps, of all specialities, paediatric haematology is poised to benefit from the new developments in precision medicine, gene editing and immunotherapy.
Membranous urethral length and urinary incontinence following robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mac Curtain Benjamin M. , Sugrue Diarmuid D. , Qian Wanyang , O'Callaghan Michael , Davis Niall F.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To provide an update on the association between preoperative membranous urethral length (MUL) and postoperative urinary incontinence (UI) in men who undergo robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP)/robot‐assisted laparoscopic prostatectomy (RALP).

Materials and Methods

Urinary incontinence is common after RARP/RALP, and early recovery of continence is one of the most important functional outcomes following surgery. MUL has been identified as a factor associated with continence recovery after RARP/RALP. A systematic review was carried out according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses guidelines, using PubMed, Embase, and Scopus databases. Inclusion criteria were English language full journal articles authored within the last 5 years that assessed continence using the Expanded Prostate Cancer Index Composite. The Critical Appraisal Skills Programme tool for retrospective cohort studies was used to evaluate study quality. A random‐effects meta‐analysis was performed to pool odds ratios (ORs) from available studies relating to continence as a function of MUL. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluations framework was used to synthesise evidence.

Results

Six studies including 970 patients reported an association between MUL and continence at 12 months. Longer MUL was associated with reduced UI odds at 12 months after surgery (pooled OR 0.74, 95% confidence interval 0.68–0.87, P < 0.001). Significant methodological and statistical heterogeneity was encountered.

Conclusions

Preoperative MUL measured on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is significantly associated with postoperative continence in men undergoing RARP/RALP. We recommend consideration of MRI measurement of MUL prior to RARP/RALP to guide treatment decisions in this population.
Clinical performance of monolithic zirconia crowns on titanium–zirconium reduced‐diameter implants in the molar area: Interim data at three years of a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Zumstein K. , Waller T. , Hämmerle C. H. F. , Jung R. E. , Benic G. , Mühlemann S.
Published: September 2023

Aim

The aim of the present study was (i) to evaluate the clinical performance of reduced‐diameter implants placed in the molar area and (ii) to test whether monolithic zirconia implant‐supported crowns lead to similar clinical outcomes compared to porcelain‐fused‐to‐metal crowns.

Materials and Methods

A total of 76 patients needing a single implant crown in the posterior region were recruited. All patients received a titanium–zirconium reduced‐diameter implant (Straumann Roxolid, Tissue Level, Standard Plus, diameter 3.3 mm, regular neck) randomly allocated to receive either a (1) monolithic zirconia crown (test) or (2) porcelain‐fused‐to‐metal crown (control). Implant survival, prosthetic outcomes, and patient‐reported outcomes were assessed at crown delivery and after 3 years of follow‐up. Marginal bone levels (MBL) as well as clinical parameters including probing depth (PD), bleeding on probing (BOP), and plaque levels (PCR) were also recorded.

Results

A total of 59 patients were available at the 3‐year follow‐up; 32 patients with a monolithic zirconia crown (TEST) and 27 patients with a porcelain‐fused‐to‐metal crown (CONTROL). 14 implants (11 implant fractures/3 aseptic losses) were lost leading to an estimated implant survival rate of 80% ± 5.1% (95% CI 70.8%–90.8%). Prosthetic complications were limited to the control group and involved minor chippings.

Conclusions

This type of reduced‐diameter implant to support single implant molar crowns in the molar area cannot be recommended. Monolithic zirconia crowns appear to be a viable option in the posterior region showing similar prosthetic outcomes to porcelain‐fused‐to‐metal crowns.
Prognosis and sequelae of meth(acrylate) sensitization in beauticians and consumers of manicure materials
Authors: Gatica‐Ortega María E. , Rodríguez‐Lago Laura , Beneyto Pedro , Pastor‐Nieto María A. , Borrego Leopoldo
Published: September 2023

Background

Allergic contact dermatitis from (meth)acrylic monomers (ACDMA) in manicure products is increasing.

Objective

To evaluate the prognosis, work performance impairment and sequelae of a cohort of beauticians and manicure consumers with ACDMA sensitized from the exposure to manicure products.

Methods

We conducted a telephone survey with patients diagnosed with ACDMA.

Results

One hundred and six patients were evaluated, including 75 (70.8%) beauticians and 31 (29.2%) consumers. All were women with a mean age of 39 (19–62). Thirty‐seven of 75 beauticians (49.3%) continued to work. Twenty‐seven of 106 (25.5%) patients continued to use manicure products with (meth)acrylates regularly. Seventeen of 51 (33.3%) patients who discontinued the exposure described ongoing nail/periungual changes. Nine of 58 (15.5%) patients who required dental restoration, orthodontic or occlusal splint materials recalled reactions from them; and, 25 of 96 (26%) who used sanitary napkins recalled intolerance to them starting after the diagnosis of ACDMA. Fifteen of 25 (60%) discontinued the use of sanitary napkins.

Conclusion

49.3% beauticians continued to work; most patients stopped wearing acrylic manicure materials; reactions from dental materials were not uncommon, however, removal of dental materials was never required; and, reactions to sanitary napkins developing after the diagnosis of ACDMA were common most leading to discontinuation of use.
Superficial desmoplastic fibroblastoma (collagenous fibroma): Clinicopathologic study of 11 cases
Authors: Bakhshwin Ahmed , Oaxaca Gabriel , Armstrong Susan , Ko Jennifer , Billings Steven
Published: September 2023

Background

Desmoplastic fibroblastoma (collagenous fibroma) is a rare soft tissue tumor that usually arises in the subcutis or skeletal muscle. Cases superficial to fascia are unusual and can cause diagnostic difficulty. We present 11 cases of superficial desmoplastic fibroblastoma involving a wide anatomic distribution.

Methods

Archives were searched using the term “desmoplastic fibroblastoma” over a 10‐year period (2012–2022). Cases superficial to fascia were retrieved, and available clinicopathologic features were recorded. Only cases involving the dermis were included.

Results

Eleven cases were identified, all of which were received in consultation. Tumors involved the head and neck (2), lower extremity (2), back (2), foot (1), shoulder (1), axilla (1), hand (1), and breast (1). Each consisted of a hypocellular proliferation of bland stellate to spindled fibroblasts set in a collagenous to focally myxoid stroma. The immunohistochemical stains available for review demonstrated SMA positivity (4/7) and negative immunoreactivity for CD34 (0/6), EMA (0/3), desmin (0/3), and S100 (0/7).

Conclusions

Desmoplastic fibroblastoma may present superficially in the dermis to subcutis, posing a potential source of diagnostic difficulty. Recognition of the characteristic histopathologic features of desmoplastic fibroblastoma with judicial use of immunohistochemical stains should allow for accurate diagnosis.
CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorder masquerading as an atypical melanocytic proliferation
Authors: Hernandez‐Rovira Miguel A. , Lama Carine M. , Musiek Amy C. M. , Russell Aaron J.
Published: September 2023

Heuristics are cognitive strategies used to facilitate decision‐making. They can be helpful tools for expediting pathologic diagnoses, however, they can also affect judgment and lead to biases that guide the pathologist astray. We report the case of a 52‐year‐old female who presented with two unusual pigmented lesions on the wrist and thigh that clinically and histopathologically resembled an atypical melanocytic proliferation. A biopsy of the thigh revealed a broad proliferation of large, atypical cells forming nests within a heavily pigmented epidermis. The lesion was initially misdiagnosed as melanoma in situ, despite equivocal staining for melanocytic markers, likely due to anchoring and adjustment as well as availability biases, which restricted the differential diagnosis and limited the selection of immunohistochemical stains. It was later discovered through chart review that the patient had a prior history of a cutaneous CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorder, which eventually led to the appropriate diagnosis in this case. Herein, we highlight a rare and unusual presentation of a pigmented epidermotropic CD30+ lymphoproliferative disorder, along with the biases leading to its misdiagnosis and the steps leading to the revelation of the actual diagnosis.
Fine‐tuned photochromic sulfonylureas for optical control of beta cell Ca2+ fluxes
Authors: Rückert Ann‐Kathrin , Ast Julia , Hasib Annie , Nasteska Daniela , Viloria Katrina , Broichhagen Johannes , Hodson David J.
Published: September 2023

We previously developed, synthesized and tested light‐activated sulfonylureas for optical control of KATP channels and pancreatic beta cell activity in vitro and in vivo. Such technology relies on installation of azobenzene photoswitches onto the sulfonylurea backbone, affording light‐dependent isomerization, alteration in ligand affinity for SUR1 and hence KATP channel conductance. Inspired by molecular dynamics simulations and to further improve photoswitching characteristics, we set out to develop a novel push‐pull closed ring azobenzene unit, before installing this on the sulfonylurea glimepiride as a small molecule recipient. Three fine‐tuned, light‐activated sulfonylureas were synthesized, encompassing azetidine, pyrrolidine and piperidine closed rings. Azetidine‐, pyrrolidine‐ and piperidine‐based sulfonylureas all increased beta cell Ca2+‐spiking activity upon continuous blue light illumination, similarly to first generation JB253. Notably, the pyrrolidine‐based sulfonylurea showed superior switch OFF performance to JB253. As such, third generation sulfonylureas afford more precise optical control over primary pancreatic beta cells, and showcase the potential of pyrrolidine‐azobenzenes as chemical photoswitches across drug classes.
Younger patients and low c‐peptide immunoreactivity index but not nutritional states affect fasting blood ketone levels in Japanese with type 1 diabetes after sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor administration
Authors: Nakajima Hanako , Okada Hiroshi , Yoshimura Yuta , Tanaka Toru , Hasegawa Goji , Mitsuhashi Kazuteru , Kitagawa Noriyuki , Okamura Takuro , Hashimoto Yoshitaka , Senmaru Takafumi , Ushigome Emi , Nakanishi Naoko , Yamazaki Masahiro , Hamaguchi Masahide , Fukui Michiaki
Published: September 2023

Aim

Sodium‐glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitors (SGLT2is) are available for individuals with type 1 diabetes, but appropriate use is recommended to prevent ketosis or ketoacidosis. This study aimed to evaluate the risk of ketosis in people with type 1 diabetes, focusing on the relationship between nutritional assessment, glycaemic status, c‐peptide immunoreactivity (CPR) index and body composition.

Materials and Methods

In total, 46 Japanese patients with type 1 diabetes were included, and dietary assessment from food photographs and ketone levels were evaluated before and after taking SGLT2is. The effect of diet on morning ketone levels was also investigated.

Results

All patients had an increase in mean ketone concentrations after taking SGLT2is (before 0.12 ± 0.06 mmol/L, after 0.23 ± 0.16 mmol/L). A significant negative correlation was found between average morning ketone levels and age (r = −0.514, p < .001) and the CPR index (r = −0.523, p = .038) after taking SGLT2is. Using a mixed‐effects model based on the results before starting the inhibitors, it was noted that both patient‐to‐patient and age, or patient‐to‐patient and capacity of insulin secretion, influenced the ketone levels. Multiple regression analysis showed that factors associated with the risk of increasing ketone levels after taking SGLT2is were younger age (β = −0.504, p = .003) and a low ratio of basal to bolus insulin (β = −0.420, p = .005).

Conclusions

When administering SGLT2is to patients with a low CPR index or younger patients with type 1 diabetes, adequate instructions to prevent ketosis should be given.
Phrase parsing in a second language as indexed by the closure positive shift: The impact of language experience and acoustic cue salience
Authors: Gilbert Annie C. , Lee Jasmine G. , Wolpert Max , Baum Shari R.
Published: September 2023

Despite the importance of prosodic processing in utterance parsing, a majority of studies investigating boundary localization in a second language focus on word segmentation. The goal of the present study was to investigate the parsing of phrase boundaries in first and second languages from different prosodic typologies (stress‐timed vs. syllable‐timed). Fifty English‐French bilingual adults who varied in native language (French or English) and second language proficiency listened to English and French utterances with different prosodic structures while event‐related brain potentials were recorded. The utterances were built around target words presented either in phrase‐final position (bearing phrase‐final lengthening) or in penultimate position. Each participant listened to both English and French stimuli, providing data in their native language (used as reference) and their second language. Target words in phrase‐final position elicited closure positive shifts across listeners in both languages, regardless of the language‐specific acoustic cues associated with phrase‐final lengthening (shorter phrase‐final lengthening in English compared to French). Interestingly, directional effects were observed, where learning to parse English as a second language in a native‐like manner seemed to require a higher proficiency level than learning to parse French as a second language. This pattern of results supports the idea that L2 listeners need to learn to recognize L2‐specific phrase‐final lengthening regardless of the apparent similarity across languages and that some language combinations might present greater challenges than others.
A large‐scale decision‐making model for the expediency of funding the development of tourism infrastructure in regions
Authors: Skare Marinko , Gavurova Beata , Polishchuk Volodymyr
Published: September 2023

The main goal of this study was to develop a hybrid decision‐making support model regarding the feasibility of financing the development of tourism infrastructure of regions for V4 countries, based on the predicted assessment of the level of tourist movement in relation to the infrastructure and accessibility of the studied regions, expert opinions regarding the level of quality of tourist services and tourism development, as well as opinions of experts regarding the prospects of rapid growth of tourist movement in the region. For the first time, a hybrid fuzzy model for assessing the level of tourism quality in the region was developed, using the opinions of experts regarding the level of quality of tourist services and tourism development. For the first time, a five‐layer neuro‐fuzzy model was developed to derive a quantitative and linguistic assessment of the level of feasibility of financing the development of tourist infrastructure based on the experience, knowledge, and competences of experts regarding the prospects of rapid growth of tourist movement in the studied region. The research results were tested, and the developed model was verified on real data for 43 regions of the V4 countries.
Evaluation of the influence of mean stress on the fatigue behavior of notched and smooth medium carbon steel components through an energetic local approach
Authors: Milone Aldo , Foti Pietro , Filippi Stefano , Landolfo Raffaele , Berto Filippo
Published: September 2023

In the present paper, the influence of the mean stress on the fatigue behavior of smooth and notched medium carbon steel components (C45 grade) is investigated through conventional and more advanced design methodologies. Original experimental data are provided for two notched specimen geometries and three different high load ratios (R = {0.7, 0.8, 0.9}). To assess the effect of the mean stress in a larger range, the bulk of fatigue data has been widened through more than 150 tests on C45 steel drawn from literature. The considered experimental data ranged between a load ratio of −2 and 0.9. The mean stress effect has been assessed in a first attempt through well‐established literature models resulting in a data correlation characterized by a large scatter. Finally, an attempt to uniquely consider both geometrical and load ratio effects has been performed through a numerical application of the strain energy density (SED) method. Elevated load ratios (R ≥ 0.7) prove to be highly detrimental for C45 steel with a fatigue life reduction of up to 3 orders of magnitude; however, this effect can be considered with a sufficient degree of accuracy through the SED method.
Prognostic value of virtual portal pressure gradient response in compensated cirrhotic patients treated with carvedilol
Authors: Zhang Shuo , Cai Li , Zhong Hui , Yang Bo , Song Weiping , Jia Haoyu , Chen Shuai , Zhu Fengshang , Li Jing , Yang Changqing
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study aimed to assess the prognostic significance of virtual portal pressure gradient (vPPG) response to carvedilol in patients with compensated cirrhosis (CC).

Methods

Compensated cirrhosis patients with high‐risk varices were prospectively enrolled to receive carvedilol for prevention of first variceal hemorrhage (VH) and followed up for 1 year. The vPPG response was defined as a reduction of vPPG >10% from baseline after 1‐month therapy. Logistic and Cox regression analyses were performed to identify independent predictors for vPPG response and first decompensation, respectively. Competitive risk models were constructed to predict disease progression, and validated using the C‐index, Kaplan–Meier analysis, competitive risk analysis, and calibration curves.

Results

A total of 129 patients completed this study, of whom 56 (43.4%) achieved vPPG response and were referred as vPPG responders. Baseline vPPG, red color sign, Model for End‐stage Liver Disease score, serum monocyte chemoattractant protein‐1 (MCP‐1), and laminin levels significantly correlated with vPPG response, which itself was further documented as an independent predictor of VH, ascites, and overall decompensation events in CC. Moreover, the red color sign or Child–Turcotte–Pugh score effectively predicted VH, while ascites correlated well with portal flow velocity or MCP‐1. The predictive models for VH and ascites showed a good discrimination with C‐index values of 0.747 and 0.689 respectively, and the high consistency on calibration curves.

Conclusion

The vPPG response could be used as a noninvasive tool for prediction of disease progression in patients with CC.
Genetic parameters for carcass and meat quality traits in Jinhua, Duroc, and their crossbred pigs
Authors: Terada Kei , Ohtani Toshiyuki , Ogawa Shinichiro , Hirooka Hiroyuki
Published: September 2023

Jinhua pigs have excellent meat quality and intramuscular fat content (IMF). Crossbreeding of Jinhua with Duroc pigs with high productivity was conducted to develop a new composite breed that possesses the beneficial characteristics of both breeds. The objective of this study was to estimate the crossbreeding parameters (additive breed, dominance, and epistatic loss effects) using the Kinghorn model and genetic parameters (heritability and genetic correlation) for carcass and meat quality traits by analysing the phenotypic data of Jinhua, Duroc, and their crossbred pigs. Backfat thickness at the thinnest point above the 9th to 13th thoracic vertebrae (BF), longissimus muscle area between the 4th and 5th thoracic vertebrae (LMA), meat shear force value (SFV), and IMF were measured. The additive breed effects were significant for all traits: 1.59 cm, −8.30 cm2, −6.38 lb/cm2, and 1.76% for BF, LMA, SFV, and IMF, respectively. The dominance effect was significant for LMA (7.41 cm2) and IMF (−2.46%), whereas the epistatic loss effect was significant for only LMA (−15.18 cm2). The estimated heritability values were high, ranging from 0.58 for IMF to 0.76 for LMA. A negative but non‐significant genetic correlation of −0.11 was estimated between BF and IMF; however, previous studies have reported that the genetic correlation between these traits is moderately positive in modern western pigs. Our results imply that, with the estimation of crossbreeding and genetic parameters, genetic improvement could be implemented to produce a new composite breed with good meat quality and productivity, to meet Japanese market requirements, by crossbreeding Jinhua and Duroc pigs.
Efficacy and safety of olmesartan medoxomil‐amlodipine besylate tablet in Chinese patients with essential hypertension: A prospective, single‐arm, multi‐center, real‐world study
Authors: Cui Zhaoqiang , Qiu Zhaohui , Cheng Wenli , Hu Wei , Ma Genshan , Cai Xiaojun , Jin Yafei , Zhao Yi , He Liqun , Li Ying , Bu Peili , Chen Xiaoping , Wang Ruxing , Chen Lin , Dong Peng , Feng Liuliu , Han Xuebin , Hong Mei , Hou Yinglong , Liao Minlei , Wang Mingliang , Wang Xiaoyan , Xie Jianhong , Xu Yawei , Wang Zhenxing , Huang Kai , Li Yongle , Li Dongsheng , Ji Xiaojun , Huang Jing , Wang Jun , Fang Danhong , Wang Jian'an , Tang Lijiang , Liu Yingwu , Fu Guosheng , Du Juan , Wang Ling , Liu Mengqi , Ge Junbo
Published: September 2023

There lacks real‐world study with a large sample size assessing olmesartan medoxomil‐amlodipine besylate (OM‐AML) tablet. Therefore, this study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of OM‐AML tablet in patients with essential hypertension. Totally, 1341 patients from 36 medical centers with essential hypertension who took OM‐AML (20/5 mg) tablet were analyzed in the current prospective, single‐arm, multi‐center, real‐world study (SVK study). Seated systolic blood pressure (SeSBP) and seated diastolic blood pressure (SeDBP) at baseline, week (W)4 and W8 were measured. The mean (±SE) change of SeSBP/SeDBP was ‐10.8 ± 0.4/‐6.6 ± 0.3 mmHg at W4 and ‐12.7 ± 0.5/‐7.6 ± 0.3 mmHg at W8, respectively. At W4, 78.8% and 29.0% patients achieved BP target by China and American Heart Association (AHA) criteria; at W8, 84.7% and 36.5% patients reached blood pressure (BP) target by China and AHA criteria, accordingly. Meanwhile, 80.2% and 86.4% patients achieved BP response at W4 and W8, respectively. Home‐measured SeSBP and SeDBP decreased from W1 to W8 (bothp < .001). Besides, patients’ and physicians’ satisfaction were elevated at W8 compared with W0 (bothp < .001). The medication possession rate was 94.8% from baseline to W4 and 91.3% from baseline to W8. The most common drug‐related adverse events were nervous system disorders (4.6%), vascular disorders (2.6%), and general disorders and administration site conditions (2.3%) by system organ class, which were generally mild and manageable. In conclusion, OM‐AML tablet is one of the best antihypertensive agents in patients with essential hypertension.
The role of regulatory T cells in the pathogenesis of acute kidney injury
Authors: Liu Xiaoyou , Hu Jianmin , Liao Guorong , Liu Ding , Zhou Song , Zhang Jie , Liao Jun , Guo Zefeng , Li Yuzhu , Yang Siqiang , Li Shichao , Chen Hua , Guo Ying , Li Min , Fan Lipei , Li Liuyang , Zhao Ming , Liu Yongguang
Published: September 2023

The incidence of acute kidney injury (AKI) is on the rise and is associated with high mortality; however, there are currently few effective treatments. Moreover, the relationship between Tregs and other components of the immune microenvironment (IME) in the pathogenesis of AKI remains unclear. We downloaded four publicly accessible AKI datasets, GSE61739, GSE67401, GSE19130, GSE81741, GSE19288 and GSE106993 from the gene expression omnibus (GEO) database. Additionally, we gathered two kidney single‐cell sequencing (scRNA‐seq) samples from the Department of Organ Transplantation at Zhujiang Hospital of Southern Medical University to investigate chronic kidney transplant rejection (CKTR). Moreover, we also collected three samples of normal kidney tissue from GSE131685. By analysing the differences in immune cells between the AKI and Non‐AKI groups, we discovered that the Non‐AKI group contained a significantly greater number of Tregs than the AKI group. Additionally, the activation of signalling pathways, such as inflammatory molecules secretion, immune response, glycolytic metabolism, NOTCH, FGF, NF‐κB and TLR4, was significantly greater in the AKI group than in the Non‐AKI group. Additionally, analysis of single‐cell sequencing data revealed that Tregs in patients with chronic kidney rejection and in normal kidney tissue have distinct biology, including immune activation, cytokine production, and activation fractions of signalling pathways such as NOTCH and TLR4. In this study, we found significant differences in the IME between AKI and Non‐AKI, including differences in Tregs cells and activation levels of biologically significant signalling pathways. Tregs were associated with lower activity of signalling pathways such as inflammatory response, inflammatory molecule secretion, immune activation, glycolysis.
Timing of orthostatic hypotension and its relationship with falls in older adults
Authors: Petriceks Aldis H. , Appel Lawrence J. , Miller Edgar R. , Mitchell Christine M. , Schrack Jennifer A. , Mukamal Kenneth J. , Lipsitz Lewis A. , Wanigatunga Amal A. , Plante Timothy B. , Michos Erin D. , Juraschek Stephen P.
Published: September 2023

Background

There is inconsistent evidence on the optimal time after standing to assess for orthostatic hypotension. We determined the prevalence of orthostatic hypotension at different time points after standing in a population of older adults, as well as fall risk and symptoms associated with orthostatic hypotension.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of the Study to Understand Fall Reduction and Vitamin D in You (STURDY), a randomized clinical trial funded by the National Institute on Aging, testing the effect of differing vitamin D3 doses on fall risk in older adults. STURDY occurred between July 2015 and May 2019. Secondary analysis occurred in 2022. Participants were community‐dwelling adults, 70 years or older. In the orthostatic hypotension assessment, participants stood upright from supine position and underwent six standing blood pressure measurements (M1–M6) in two clusters of three measurements (immediately and 3 min after standing). Cox proportional hazard models were used to examine the relationship between orthostatic hypotension at each measurement and subsequent falls. Participants were followed until the earlier of their 24‐month visit or study completion.

Results

Orthostatic hypotension occurred in 32% of assessments at M1, and only 16% at M5 and M6. Orthostatic hypotension from average immediate (M1‐3) and average delayed (M4‐6) measurements, respectively, predicted higher fall risk (M1‐3 = 1.65 [1.08, 2.52]; M4‐6 = 1.73 [1.03, 2.91]) (hazard ratio [95% confidence interval]). However, among individual measurements, only orthostatic hypotension at M5 (1.84 [1.16, 2.93]) and M6 (1.85 [1.17, 2.91]) predicted higher fall risk. Participants with orthostatic hypotension at M1 (3.07 [1.48, 6.38]) and M2 (3.72 [1.72, 8.03]) were more likely to have reported orthostatic symptoms.

Conclusions

Orthostatic hypotension was most prevalent and symptomatic immediately within 1–2 min after standing, but more informative for fall risk after 4.5 min. Clinicians may consider both intervals when assessing for orthostatic hypotension.
Roots, Leaves, and Flowers: A Narrative Review of Herbs and Botanicals Used for Self‐Managed Abortion in Asia and the Pacific
Authors: Chen Tracy X. , Hamachi April , Soon Reni , Natavio Melissa
Published: September 2023

Abortion has existed throughout history, often outside of formal health care systems. This type of care, now called self‐managed abortion, has historically been achieved in part through botanicals and traditional medicines. Their use continues into the modern day, especially in Asia, Hawai‘i, and other Pacific Islands, where indigenous medicine traditions practice alongside allopathic medicine. Many of these botanicals, such as papaya leaves, hibiscus flowers, and young kī, and traditional medicines, such as tianhuafen, yuanhua, and Shenghua Decoction, have undergone scientific and clinical investigation of their potential abortifacient and antifertility action. The incidence of self‐managed abortion with such abortifacients in countries with severe abortion restrictions are only estimates, leading to the possibility that legal rulings and societal pressures may cause underreporting. The Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander communities in the United States also suffer from a lack of abortion access in addition to unique health disparities and barriers to reproductive health care. As difficulties in abortion access increases due to the Supreme Court decision in Dobbs v. Jackson Women's Health Organization, some may seek or even prefer self‐managed abortion through traditional methods that have been passed down in their communities. Midwives and other health care providers may then be contacted during this process. This narrative review provides an overview of the literature on the use of botanicals, herbs, and traditional medicines used for self‐managed abortion, specifically in Asia, Hawai‧i, and other Pacific Islands. Their implications for practice for providers in the United States and further opportunities for research are also presented.
Regulatory capital and asset risk transfer
Authors: Kim Kyeonghee , Leverty J. Tyler , Schmit Joan T.
Published: September 2023

We explore whether life insurers use a unique reinsurance arrangement to manage assets tied to their regulatory capital. Typical reinsurance allows insurers to reduce their regulatory capital by transferring liabilities (reserves), and the associated assets, to reinsurers. With modified coinsurance (ModCo), insurers maintain control of their liabilities and assets while transferring regulatory capital requirements to the reinsurer. Holding fixed an insurer's reported capital, we find that ModCo allows insurers to report higher risk‐based capital ratios. Insurers with ModCo are less likely to fire sale downgraded bonds. We also find suggestive evidence of regulatory arbitrage, as most ModCo is purchased from reinsurers in countries with low capital requirements or within the same insurance group.
Factors associated with dental implant loss/complications in the Veterans Health Administration, 2015–2019
Authors: Wilson Geneva M. , McGregor Jessina C. , Gibson Gretchen , Jurasic M. Marianne , Evans Charlesnika T. , Suda Katie J.
Published: September 2023

Objectives

Twelve percent of the U.S. population has a dental implant. Although rare, implant loss/complications can impact quality of life. This study evaluated indicators for implant loss/complications.

Methods

Veterans with dental implants placed between 2015 and 2019 were included. Implant loss/complications were defined as implant removal or peri‐implant defect treatment within 90 days. Binomial logistic regression identified factors associated with implant loss/complications.

Results

From 2015 to 2019, 48,811 dental implants were placed in 38,246 Veterans. Implant loss/complications was identified for 202 (0.4%) implants. In adjusted analyses, Veterans aged 50–64 years (OR = 1.92 (95% confidence interval (CI): 1.06, 3.46)) and ≥65 (OR = 2.01 (95% CI: 1.14, 3.53)) were more likely to have implant loss/complications. History of oral infection, tooth location, and number of implants placed all significantly increased the odds of loss/complications.

Conclusion

Dental implant loss/complications are rare outcomes. Older age, location of implant, and the number of implants placed during a visit were significant predictors of loss/complication.
Equivalence in dictionary and text
Authors: Kotorova Elizaveta
Published: September 2023

The present paper deals with the problem of interlingual equivalence in vocabulary, text translation and intercultural communication and proposes a novel approach to this problem based on ideas from prototype theory and field theory. Within this approach, interlingual equivalence is defined not as the relation between two lexemes, but as the relation between a lexeme and a semantic field. The first part of the paper thus provides a general description of the main types of corresponding semantic fields. The second part deals with the factors that generally serve as a basis for establishing equivalence relations between lexical units in systems of the languages being compared and in texts. Particular attention is paid to outlining the differences between these factors. Furthermore, the paper discusses peculiarities arising when establishing equivalence relations between utterances in interlingual communication. In certain communicative situations, equivalent utterances cannot be perceived as adequate forms of realisation of a speech act, which must be taken into account in order to avoid misunderstanding and communication failure. In this case, equivalence relations in communication often need to be replaced by relations of adequacy. The difference between equivalence and adequacy is discussed as well. The analysis is based on comparison of the lexical‐semantic spheres of English, German and Russian.
Rapid genetic adaptation to a novel ecosystem despite a large founder event
Authors: Sparks Morgan M. , Schraidt Claire E. , Yin Xiaoshen , Seeb Lisa W. , Christie Mark R.
Published: September 2023

Introduced and invasive species make excellent natural experiments for investigating rapid evolution. Here, we describe the effects of genetic drift and rapid genetic adaptation in pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) that were accidentally introduced to the Great Lakes via a single introduction event 31 generations ago. Using whole‐genome resequencing for 134 fish spanning five sample groups across the native and introduced range, we estimate that the source population's effective population size was 146,886 at the time of introduction, whereas the founding population's effective population size was just 72—a 2040‐fold decrease. As expected with a severe founder event, we show reductions in genome‐wide measures of genetic diversity, specifically a 37.7% reduction in the number of SNPs and an 8.2% reduction in observed heterozygosity. Despite this decline in genetic diversity, we provide evidence for putative selection at 47 loci across multiple chromosomes in the introduced populations, including missense variants in genes associated with circadian rhythm, immunological response and maturation, which match expected or known phenotypic changes in the Great Lakes. For one of these genes, we use a species‐specific agent‐based model to rule out genetic drift and conclude our results support a strong response to selection occurring in a period gene (per2) that plays a predominant role in determining an organism's daily clock, matching large day length differences experienced by introduced salmon during important phenological periods. Together, these results inform how populations might evolve rapidly to new environments, even with a small pool of standing genetic variation.
Protective effect of small extracellular vesicles (EVs) derived from ACE2‐modified human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells against renal ischemia–reperfusion injury
Authors: Zhang Jiaying , Su Rongyun , Wang Yinghui , Wang Honggang , Li Shan , Yang Xue , Liu Gang
Published: September 2023

Aim

Acute kidney injury is a severe disease that is closely associated with substantial morbidity and mortality. The most common cause of AKI is renal ischemia–reperfusion injury. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) have previously been shown to have renoprotective effects. However, extracellular vesicles secreted by MSCs are thought to be the key for the therapeutic effects of MSCs. This study investigated whether small EVs derived from ACE2‐modified human umbilical cord MSCs could alleviate RIRI and explored their underlying molecular mechanisms

Methods

A lentivirus carrying an ACE2 overexpression vector was constructed and used to infect MSCs. The small EVs were isolated from MSC‐conditioned medium by ultracentrifugation. HK‐2 cells were cocultured with MSC‐ACE2‐EVs and subjected to hypoxia/reoxygenation injury. MSCs‐ACE2‐EVs were injected into RIRI mice. Biochemical and morphological characteristics were assessed, and the levels of inflammatory‐related factors, oxidative stress products, and apoptosis in HK‐2 cells and kidney tissues were assessed

Results

In vitro, MSC‐ACE2‐EVs had stronger anti‐inflammatory, antioxidative stress, and antiapoptotic effects in HK‐2 cells subjected to H/R than MSC‐NC‐EVs. In vivo, MSC‐ACE2‐EVs could target the injured kidney, reduce blood creatinine and urea nitrogen levels, and protect the kidney from I/R, and this effect may have been related to the activation of the Nrf2/HO‐1 signalling pathway

Conclusion

Taken together, our results demonstrated the anti‐inflammatory, antioxidative stress, and antiapoptotic effects of MSC‐ACE2‐EVs, which protected against I/R injury in vitro and vivo. MSC‐ACE2‐EVs may be therapeutic agents for RIRI

image
Spiritual care experiences of nurses working in intensive care units: A qualitative study
Authors: Dural Gül
Published: September 2023

Background

Most nurses working in intensive care units are unprepared to provide spiritual care to patients and they lack the competence and skills to provide spiritual care. Lack of moral evaluation of patients has negative effects on the patient. Spiritual care given to patients has effects on patient–nurse communication, general condition of the patient, and the quality of care.

Aim

This study was conducted to find out the spiritual care experiences of nurses working in intensive care units.

Study Design

A qualitative descriptive design was used. The study was carried out with 14 nurses who were working in the intensive care units of a university hospital in eastern Turkey between May and July 2022. Two forms were created by the researcher according to the purpose of the study and the population. Inductive thematic analysis was used to evaluate the data. Ethics committee approval was obtained.

Results

Ten of the nurses were women. Their ages were between 25 and 47 years, their working years ranged between 2 and 28 years, and their weekly working hours ranged between 40 to 56 hours. As a result of the thematic analysis, six themes and 18 sub‐themes were determined: The themes determined are (1) Definition of spiritual care (2) Time of spiritual care, (3) Benefits of spiritual care, (4) Spiritual care practices, (5) Obstacles in providing spiritual care.

Conclusions

Providing spiritual care to patients in intensive care is a very important experience for nurses. Understanding spiritual care, recognizing its importance, and including it in nursing practice have a central significance.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Spiritual care provided in nursing profession is as important as physical care, and supporting patients in intensive care is at the heart of providing the best holistic care.