bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modifiable risk factors of cognitive frailty in community‐dwelling older adults: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Yuan Chen , Zhang Yixiong
Published: June 2023

Purpose

To perform a meta‐analysis identifying the modifiable risk factors of cognitive frailty in the elderly.

Methods

We systematically searched databases including PubMed, EMBASE, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, China Science and Technology Journal Database, Wanfang Data Knowledge Service Platform from January 01, 2017 to March 26, 2022. Quantitative, original research reporting associated factors were included.

Findings

7,854 records in total were identified, of which 14 articles (1 prospective, 13 cross‐sectional) with 36 factors were included. Studies on cognitive frailty included 20,390 community‐dwellers (≥60 years) from three countries. Meta‐analysis indicated that depression [OR = 3.60, 95%CI (2.25,5.78), p < 0.01] and sleep problems [OR = 2.36, 95%CI (1.62,3.43), p < 0.01] were associated with cognitive frailty.

Conclusions

Effective interventions targeting depression and sleep problems may lower the risk of cognitive frailty in the community seniors but need further study in high‐quality, prospective studies.

Implications for Nursing Practice

Building on previous work, the objectives of this systematic review and meta‐analysis were to explore potential modifiable risk factors for cognitive frailty in community‐dwelling older adults, which is expected to throw light on the prevention of cognitive frailty.
More on the relationship between interdisciplinary accounting research and citation impact
Authors: Xu Lina , Dellaportas Steven , Yang Zhiqiang , Wang Jin
Published: June 2023

Using multiple indicators of interdisciplinarity (variety, balance, and disparity), this study examines 1613 references cited in articles published between 1976 and 2018 in six highly regarded accounting research journals (Accounting, Auditing and Accountability Journal (AAAJ), Accounting, Organisations and Society (AOS), Management Accounting Research (MAR), Journal of Accounting and Economics (JAE), Journal of Accounting Research (JAR), and The Accounting Review (TAR)). The findings are threefold: the interdisciplinarity of cited references is low compared with the reported findings in the non‐accounting disciplines; there is no discernible change in the level of diversity during the sample period; and the level of citations is negatively related with the dimensions of diversity.
Capturing uncatalogued distribution records to improve conservation assessments of data‐deficient species: a case study using the glossy grass skink
Authors: Farquhar J. E. , Carlesso A. , Pili A. , Gale N. , Chapple D. G.
Published: June 2023

Effective conservation planning is often predicated on detailed and current information about a species' geographical distribution. However, traditional sources of occurrence data (e.g., online biodiversity databases) may be insufficient for estimating the range of rare, poorly understood species that are readily misidentified. Here, we demonstrate a more holistic approach to this problem, using the poorly known glossy grass skink (Pseudemoia rawlinsoni) as a case study. We first compared the relative contribution made (to our geographical knowledge of the species) by online database records, with that of photo‐substantiated records obtained via personal communication (PC). We used ecological niche modelling (ENM) to predict the species' distribution, then performed field surveys at both historical and predicted suitable sites to further clarify its occurrence. 20% of all known records came from the PC method, which resulted in 35 new sites and increased the species' area of occupancy (AOO) by 176 km2. Most records obtained via PC came from the past decade, demonstrating that this method is more effective at elucidating the current distribution. ENM revealed that P. rawlinsoni has a disjunct range, and is mostly a low‐elevation coastal species, with the exception of suitable habitat in parts of the high‐elevation Australian Alps bioregion. The species' AOO has likely declined over recent decades owing to anthropogenic disturbance, given that 38% of the species' predicted range is now cleared agricultural land, and our field surveys failed to detect the species at 52% of historical record sites. Together, these findings provide a robust foundation of geographical knowledge on which to develop strategic conservation actions for the species.
Diversity and assembly composition of arboreal ants in a west African humid forest‐savannah mosaic
Authors: Yode Dakélé Christine , Kouakou Lombart Maurice M. , Dosso Kanvaly , Dekoninck Wouter , Yeo Kolo , Konate Souleymane , Kouassi Philippe Kouassi
Published: June 2023

In the tropical forest‐savannah mosaic of Lamto Reserve in Ivory Coast ants play an important role in the biodiversity conservation. This work aimed to explore the structure and composition of the arboreal ant assemblages in a forest‐savannah mosaic located in central Côte d'Ivoire. Ants were collected by baited trap (Protein bait: tuna and sugar bait: sweet milk) and beating of low vegetation. During the entire sampling campaign, 59 ant species belonging to 18 genera and five subfamilies (Formicinae, Ponerinae, Myrmicinae, Dolichoderinae and Pseudomyrmecinae) were recorded. The mean ant species richness of shrub savannah (SS) was significantly lower than of both forest island (FI) and forest gallery. Likewise, a significant difference was observed for species composition when comparing the arboreal ant communities of SS, gallery forest and FI.
The Real Possibility of Physical Killing: A Feminist Critique of Carl Schmitt
Authors: Marasco Robyn
Published: June 2023

This article offers a feminist critique of Carl Schmitt, with a particular focus on Political Theology and The Concept of the Political. It addresses a pathos of masculinity that pervades Schmitt's rhetoric and helps to explain the hold that his ideas have on so many thinkers across the political spectrum. It argues as well for the surprising insights that feminists can draw from Schmitt's abstract political concepts. In decentering the infamous friend—enemy distinction and developing instead the existentialist claim about “the real possibility of physical killing,” we can see Schmitt's pathos more clearly, but we can also theorize the political in ways that Schmitt could not. Schmittian existentialism permits us to see the family as a primary political institution, sex and gender as forms of political power, and femicide as a real political problem. This article concludes with a discussion of Andrea Dworkin, in some ways more Schmittian than Schmitt himself, who pursues this principle of political existentialism—“the real possibility of physical killing”—in a radically feminist direction.
Why Compete for Firms? Electoral Effects of Corporate Headquarters Relocation
Authors: Yang Joonseok
Published: June 2023

Why do local and state governments in the United States compete to attract and retain corporations in their jurisdictions even by offering generous incentives, which can jeopardize public spending on other needs? This research shows that the answer can lie in the electoral effects of headquarters (HQ) relocation. Using an original data set of interstate HQ relocation cases covered in the news media from 1995 to 2015, this research finds that interstate business location decisions affect gubernatorial election outcomes. However, empirical analyses provide evidence that voters use different attribution processes when considering HQ relocation‐in versus relocation‐out cases: HQ relocation‐out results in greater support for Republican candidates, whereas HQ relocation‐in increases support for the incumbent party. Supplementary analyses suggest that the perceptual effects and symbolic value of HQ relocation, rather than its immediate local economic effects, drive electoral outcomes. The findings have implications for electoral accountability and the political economy of business–government relationships.
No business
Authors: Moten Fred
Published: June 2023

“No business” is an attempt to find one hundred words to thank Kathleen Stewart for her work. It seeks to refuse the distinction between poetry and criticism and to make descriptive gestures towards what is unique and lasting in her devotion to common and extraordinary practices.
The prescribing of cardioprotective medications and the impact on survival for patients with peripheral artery disease that undergo intervention
Authors: Hart Odette , Xue Nicole , Khashram Manar
Published: June 2023

Background

Cardiovascular disease guidelines recommend that patients with established peripheral artery disease (PAD) are prescribed antihypertensive, lipid‐lowering, and antiplatelet medication to reduce cardiovascular ischaemic events. However, the prescribing of these medications for patients with PAD within New Zealand (NZ) remains undefined.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational cohort study of patients in the Midland region of NZ, that underwent PAD‐related percutaneous and surgical intervention between 1st January 2010 and 31st December 2021. Patient level data was collected. The primary outcome was prescribing of cardioprotective medications either before or within 1 year of incident procedure. Secondary outcome was overall survival.

Results

There were 2547 patients included. Antihypertensive prescription occurred in 80.7%, lipid‐lowering in 77.4% and antithrombotic in 89.9%. Concomitant ischaemic heart disease increased prescription of cardioprotective medications. Women were prescribed less lipid‐lowering medication compared to men. Māori men were prescribed less antiplatelet medication compared to non‐Māori men. On univariate analysis lipid‐lowering and antiplatelet medication showed survival advantage, while antihypertensive and anticoagulation did not. After adjustment for age, sex, end stage renal failure and presence of chronic limb‐threatening ischaemia, best medical therapy was associated with better survival (HR 0.88, 95% CI 0.79–0.98, P = 0.02).

Conclusion

This study highlights areas of deficiency in prescribing of cardioprotective medication in this high‐risk group. These could be targets for national quality improvement initiatives.
Species traits drive responses of forest birds to agriculturally‐modified habitats throughout the annual cycle
Authors: Binley Allison D. , Bennett Joseph R. , Schuster Richard , Rodewald Amanda D. , La Sorte Frank A. , Fink Daniel , Zuckerberg Benjamin , Wilson Scott
Published: June 2023

The conversion of forest to agriculture is considered one of the greatest threats to avian biodiversity, yet how species respond to habitat modification throughout the annual cycle remains unknown. We examined whether forest bird associations with agricultural habitats vary throughout the year, and if species traits influence these relationships. Using data from the eBird community‐science program, we investigated associations between agriculturally‐modified land cover and the occurrence of 238 forest bird species based on three sets of avian traits: migratory strategy, dietary guild, and foraging strategy. We found that the influence of agriculturally‐modified land cover on species distributions varied widely across periods and trait groups but highlighting several broad findings. First, migratory species showed strong seasonal differences in their response to agricultural land cover while resident species did not. Second, there was a migratory strategy by season interaction; Neotropical migrants were most negatively influenced by agricultural land cover during the breeding period while short‐distance migrants were most negatively influenced during the non‐breeding period. Third, regardless of season, some dietary (e.g. insectivores) and foraging guilds (e.g. bark foragers) consistently responded more negatively to agricultural land cover than others (e.g. omnivores and ground foragers, respectively). Fourth, there were greater differences among dietary guilds in their responses to agricultural land cover during the breeding period than during the non‐breeding period, perhaps reflecting how different habitat and ecological requirements enhance the susceptibility of some guilds during reproduction. These results suggest that management efforts across the annual cycle may be oversimplified and thus ineffective when based on broad ecological generalisations that are static in space and time.
An empirical evaluation of the estimation of inbreeding depression from molecular markers under suboptimal conditions
Authors: Pérez‐Pereira Noelia , Quesada Humberto , Caballero Armando
Published: June 2023

Inbreeding depression (ID), the reduction in fitness due to inbreeding, is typically measured by the regression of the phenotypic values of individuals for a particular trait on their corresponding inbreeding coefficients (F). While genealogical records can provide these coefficients, they may be unavailable or incomplete, making molecular markers a useful alternative. The power to detect ID and its accuracy depend on the variation of F values of individuals, the sample sizes available, and the accuracy in the estimation of individual fitness traits and F values. In this study, we used Drosophila melanogaster to evaluate the effectiveness of molecular markers in estimating ID under suboptimal conditions. We generated two sets of 100 pairs of unrelated individuals from a large panmictic population and mated them for two generations to produce non‐inbred and unrelated individuals (F = 0) and inbred individuals (full‐sib progeny; F = 0.25). Using these expected genealogical F values, we calculated inbreeding depression for two fitness‐related traits, pupae productivity and competitive fitness. We then sequenced the males from 17 non‐inbred pairs and 17 inbred pairs to obtain their genomic inbreeding coefficients and estimate ID for the two traits. The scenario assumed was rather restrictive in terms of estimation of ID because: (1) the individuals belonged to the same generation of a large panmictic population, leading to low variation in individual F coefficients; (2) the sample sizes were small; and (3) the traits measured depended on both males and females while only males were sequenced. Despite the challenging conditions of our study, we found that molecular markers provided estimates of ID that were comparable to those obtained from simple pedigree estimations with larger sample sizes. The results therefore suggest that genomic measures of inbreeding are useful to provide estimates of inbreeding depression even under very challenging scenarios.
Functional preservation benefits of minimal surgery for extramammary Paget's disease
Authors: Okumura Mao , Ogata Dai , Namikawa Kenjiro , Takahashi Akira , Akiyama Masashi , Yamazaki Naoya
Published: June 2023

As extramammary Paget's disease (EMPD) sometimes invades and metastasizes from the skin to the mucosa, radical surgical resection of these lesions is often difficult. The purpose of this study was to analyse the association between surgical margins and survival as well as the benefit of functional preservation over complete resection, in patients with EMPD. We retrospectively analysed 230 patients diagnosed with EMPD between 1969 and 2020. Patient and treatment characteristics were recorded. Since our centre is a specialized hospital and almost all patients were referred from other hospitals, we reviewed their referral letters. Prognostic factors and survival time were also analysed. Among 230 patients, 78 (33.9%) had positive margins. The presence of margin positive lesions increased the local recurrence rate but was not significantly correlated with survival. Of all the patients who had received a thorough explanation about the surgical procedure in the referring hospital, 43.8% were scheduled for surgeries that would result in functional impairment, and all of them had function‐preserving surgeries at our hospital with a 10‐year survival rate of 100%. Our result suggest that less invasive surgery preserves anogenital and urethral function may be an acceptable option for EMPD treatment.
Environmental filtering and environmental stress shape regional patterns of riparian community assembly and functional diversity
Authors: Portela Ana Paula , Durance Isabelle , Vieira Cristiana , Honrado João
Published: June 2023

Riparian plant communities are key to ecosystem functioning and important providers of ecosystem services on which wildlife and people depend. Ecosystem functioning and stability depend on functional diversity and redundancy. Therefore, understanding which and how different drivers shape community assembly processes and functional patterns is crucial. However, there is limited knowledge of these processes at larger scales for the entire riparian vascular plant community.

Two community assembly processes dominate: environmental filtering, where species living in similar environments have similar traits leading to trait convergence; and limiting similarity, where similar traits cause species to compete more strongly leading to trait divergence. We assessed functional diversity patterns of riparian vascular plant communities across an Atlantic–Mediterranean biogeographical gradient in north Portugal.

We used functional diversity indices and null models to detect community assembly processes and whether these processes change along environmental gradients. We hypothesised that environmental filtering associated with precipitation and aridity would be the prevailing assembly process at a regional scale. We also expected a shift from environmental filtering to limiting similarity as precipitation‐related stress declined.

As hypothesised, patterns of functional diversity were consistent with environmental filtering of species occurrences at the regional scale. Functional patterns were also consistent with a shift between environmental filtering and limiting similarity as cold and aridity stress declined. Under stressful environmental conditions, communities showed lower functional divergence and richness than expected by chance. Environmental filtering was more strongly associated with minimum temperatures than precipitation and aridity.

Underlining the need for hierarchical approaches and the analysis of multiple climatic stressors, our results highlighted the relevance of large‐scale environmental stress gradients and the potential role of community assembly in influencing riparian functional diversity. Alterations in stress filters due to climate change will affect assembly processes and functional patterns, probably affecting ecosystem functioning and stability.
Quantifying reliability and data deficiency in global vertebrate population trends using the Living Planet Index
Authors: Dove Shawn , Böhm Monika , Freeman Robin , McRae Louise , Murrell David J.
Published: June 2023

Global biodiversity is facing a crisis, which must be solved through effective policies and on‐the‐ground conservation. But governments, NGOs, and scientists need reliable indicators to guide research, conservation actions, and policy decisions. Developing reliable indicators is challenging because the data underlying those tools is incomplete and biased. For example, the Living Planet Index tracks the changing status of global vertebrate biodiversity, but taxonomic, geographic and temporal gaps and biases are present in the aggregated data used to calculate trends. However, without a basis for real‐world comparison, there is no way to directly assess an indicator's accuracy or reliability. Instead, a modelling approach can be used. We developed a model of trend reliability, using simulated datasets as stand‐ins for the “real world”, degraded samples as stand‐ins for indicator datasets (e.g., the Living Planet Database), and a distance measure to quantify reliability by comparing partially sampled to fully sampled trends. The model revealed that the proportion of species represented in the database is not always indicative of trend reliability. Important factors are the number and length of time series, as well as their mean growth rates and variance in their growth rates, both within and between time series. We found that many trends in the Living Planet Index need more data to be considered reliable, particularly trends across the global south. In general, bird trends are the most reliable, while reptile and amphibian trends are most in need of additional data. We simulated three different solutions for reducing data deficiency, and found that collating existing data (where available) is the most efficient way to improve trend reliability, whereas revisiting previously studied populations is a quick and efficient way to improve trend reliability until new long‐term studies can be completed and made available.
Min‐Trap® Samplers to Passively Monitor In‐Situ Iron Sulfide Mineral Formation for Chlorinated Solvent Treatment
Authors: Divine Craig , Justicia‐León Shandra , Tilton Jennifer Martin , Liles David , Carter Erika , Zardouzian Erik , Clark Katherine , Taggart Dora , Freedman David , LaRaia Scott , Perrell Francesca , Gerber Kathleen
Published: June 2023

The objective of this work was to field‐demonstrate the Min‐Trap® sampler technology, a new in‐situ passive monitoring tool that offers distinct advantages for collecting mineralogical data. The Min‐Trap consists of a solid porous medium (e.g., silica sand) contained within a water‐permeable mesh and support housing that is deployed inside a monitoring well. The porous medium serves as a solid substrate upon which target minerals passively form. Analysis of the sample medium using chemical, microscopic, spectroscopic, or other techniques can provide direct evidence of geochemical conditions and the formation of target minerals in‐situ. The abiotic degradation of chlorinated volatile organic compounds via the reducing power stored in reactive minerals (e.g., iron sulfides) is a recognized important process, and Min‐Traps are well suited to document the formation of these minerals during remediation. Min‐Traps were tested in multiple wells at two field sites undergoing active remediation where reactive iron sulfide minerals were expected to be actively forming. Min‐Trap samples were analyzed by a variety of analytical techniques, including total iron, acid volatile sulfide (AVS), chromium extractable sulfide (CrES; also known as chromium reducible sulfur; CRS), weak acid soluble (WAS) iron, strong acid soluble (SAS) iron, and scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (SEM‐EDS). The results provided direct verification of iron sulfide minerals in all cases (n = 9) where they were expected or interpreted to be possibly present based on groundwater data. Min‐Traps offer the potential for lifecycle cost savings because they do not require the collection of soil core samples, they can aid in better remedy implementation and performance, and they can potentially support earlier transition from active to passive remedy phases.
Violence, life aspirations and displacement trajectories in civil war
Authors: Müller‐Funk Lea
Published: June 2023

Drawing on qualitative data from the civil wars in Syria and Libya since 2011, this paper seeks to build a better understanding of immobility and of displacement trajectories within conflict countries and towards neighbouring countries. The paper shows that different types of violent experiences—personal threats, generalized violence, an increasing hopelessness relating to the absence of violence in the future—trigger different exit movements across internal and external borders. Second, the analysis demonstrates that migration decisions in civil war contexts are complex processes with people balancing between strategies of how to avoid violence with strategies of how to realize broader life aspirations related to family, love, work and political change. Life aspirations often play a more important role once people move out of a situation of immediate danger and in later phases of trajectories and influence (im)mobility patterns in three different directions: stay, move (on) or return. Life aspirations, especially related to political change, outweigh perceptions of violence in some cases. Financial vulnerability can force people to stay in or return to violent contexts.
One step densification of SDC—Na2CO3 nano‐composite electrolytes for SOFC applications by cold sintering process
Authors: Murutoglu Murat , Gultekin Aygul Alkan , Gunhan Busra , Ucun Tugce , Buyukaksoy Aligul , Ozsarac Ugur , Yilmaz Huseyin
Published: June 2023

Sm0.2Ce0.8O1.9‐ 30% Na2CO3 (Sm doped ceria (SDC)‐30N) nano‐composite electrolytes were densified in a single step via cold sintering process (CSP). At 200°C and 450 MPa of uniaxial pressure, samples up to 97% of their theoretical density could be obtained. The effect of processing parameters, such as temperature, uniaxial pressure, processing duration, and moisture content, on the densification of the nano‐composite electrolytes was investigated. The thermal, microstructural, and electrical properties of nano‐composites were investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, X‐ray diffractometer, scanning electron microscope, and EIS analysis. SDC crystallite sizes were found to be around 25 nm, barely coarsened after CSP by which the true nano nature of the nano‐composite could be preserved. Because, by conventional processing high density values could not be attained and high processing temperatures in excess of 600°C had to be used, promoting particle coarsening. The highest total electrical conductivity was found to be 2.2 × 10−2 S cm−1 at 600°C, with an activation energy of 0.83 eV for SDC‐30N nano‐composites. The present investigation revealed that the implementation of cold sintering technique resulted in significant enhancements in the densification of nano‐composite electrolytes, thereby rendering them suitable for efficient utilization in SOFC applications, as compared to the conventional production methods.
Patients' perceptions on the facilitators and barriers using injectable therapies in dyslipidaemia: An empirical qualitative descriptive international study
Authors: Lee Geraldine A. , Durante Angela , Baker Edward E. , Vellone Ercole , Caggianelli Gabriele , Dellafiore Federica , Khan Mutiba , Khatib Rani
Published: June 2023

Background

Injectable medicines are increasingly used to manage abnormal levels of lipids, which is a major risk factor for cardiovascular events. Enhancing our understanding of patients' perceptions of these injectables, can inform practice with the aim of increasing uptake and medication adherence.

Aim

To explore patient's experiences of using injectables and to identify potential facilitators and barriers to using injectable therapies in dyslipidaemia.

Design

A qualitative descriptive study using semi‐structured interviews was conducted with patients who were using injectables to manage their cardiovascular conditions.

Methods

A total of 56 patients, 30 from the United Kingdom and 26 from Italy, were interviewed online from November 2020 to June 2021. Interviews were transcribed and schematic content analysis performed.

Results

Four distinct themes emerged from interviews with patients and caregivers: (i) Their behaviours and personal beliefs; (ii) Knowledge and education about injectable medication; (iii) Clinical skills and previous experiences and (iv) Organizational and governance. Participants expressed initial fears such as needle phobia, and their concerns about commencing therapy were compounded by a lack of accessible information. However, patients' pre‐existing knowledge of lipid lowering medication, previous experience with statins and history of adverse side effects informed their decision‐making regarding using injectables. Organization and governance‐related issues were primarily around the distribution and management of medication supply within primary care, and the lack of a standardized clinical support monitoring system.

Conclusion

Changes are needed in clinical practice to better educate and support patients to improve the uptake of injectables and optimize their use of these medications in the management of dyslipidaemia.

Impact

This study suggests that injectable therapies were acceptable to people with cardiovascular disease. However, healthcare professionals need to play a key role in improving education and providing support to aid patients' decision‐making regarding commencing and adhering to injectable therapies.

Reporting Method

The study adhered to the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research.

Patient or Public Contribution

There was no patient or public contribution.
Noninvasive evaluation of donor and native pancreases following simultaneous pancreas–kidney transplantation using positron emission tomography/computed tomography
Authors: Murakami Takaaki , Nakamura Toshihiro , Fujimoto Hiroyuki , Fujikura Junji , Shimizu Yoichi , Miyake Kanae K. , Otani Daisuke , Sakaki Kentaro , Kiyobayashi Sakura , Anazawa Takayuki , Nakamoto Yuji , Inagaki Nobuya
Published: June 2023

It is crucial to develop practical and noninvasive methods to assess the functional beta‐cell mass in a donor pancreas, in which monitoring and precise evaluation is challenging. A patient with type 1 diabetes underwent noninvasive imaging following simultaneous kidney–pancreas transplantation with positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) using an exendin‐based probe, [18F]FB(ePEG12)12‐exendin‐4. Following transplantation, PET imaging with [18F]FB(ePEG12)12‐exendin‐4 revealed simultaneous and distinct accumulations in the donor and native pancreases. The pancreases were outlined at a reasonable distance from the surrounding organs using [18F]FB(ePEG12)12‐exendin‐4 whole‐body maximum intensity projection and axial PET images. At 1 and 2 h after [18F]FB(ePEG12)12‐exendin‐4 administration, the mean standardized uptake values were 2.96 and 3.08, respectively, in the donor pancreas and 1.97 and 2.25, respectively, in the native pancreas. [18F]FB(ePEG12)12‐exendin‐4 positron emission tomography imaging allowed repeatable and quantitative assessment of beta‐cell mass following simultaneous kidney–pancreas transplantation.
Efficacy of combined treatment with human adipose tissue stem cell‐derived exosome‐containing solution and microneedling for facial skin aging: A 12‐week prospective, randomized, split‐face study
Authors: Park Gyeong‐Hun , Kwon Hyuck Hoon , Seok Joon , Yang Steven Hoseong , Lee Joon , Park Byung Chul , Shin Eun , Park Kui Young
Published: June 2023

Background

Studies have reported promising results of mesenchymal stem cell therapies for skin aging. However, in the use of mesenchymal stem cells, some drawbacks including rarely possible tumorigenicity and low engraftment rates have limited their widespread clinical use. Adipose tissue stem cell‐derived exosomes (ASCEs) are emerging as effective cell‐free therapeutic agents.

Aims

It was evaluated the clinical efficacy of combining the application of human ASCE‐containing solution (HACS) with microneedling to treat facial skin aging.

Methods

A 12‐week, prospective, randomized, split‐face, comparative study was conducted. Twenty‐eight individuals underwent three treatment sessions separated by 3‐week intervals and were followed up for 6 weeks after the last session. At each treatment session, HACS and microneedling were administered to one side of the face, and normal saline solution and microneedling were administered to the other side as a control.

Results

The Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale score was significantly higher on the HACS‐treated side than on the control side at the final follow‐up visit (p = 0.005). Objective measurements obtained by different devices including PRIMOS Premium, Cutometer MPA 580, Corneometer CM 825, and Mark‐Vu confirmed greater clinical improvements in skin wrinkles, elasticity, hydration, and pigmentation on the HACS‐treated side than on the control side. The results of the histopathological evaluation were consistent with the clinical findings. No serious adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that combined treatment using HACS and microneedling is effective and safe for treating facial skin aging.
Family caregivers' lived experience of caring for hospitalised patients with cancer during the COVID‐19 lockdown: A descriptive phenomenological study
Authors: Ma Haixia , Zhao Tuan , Ma Yajing , Yuen John Wai‐Man , Ka Yan Ho , Yung Jolene Y. K. , Lam Katherine Ka Wai , Christensen Martin
Published: June 2023

Aims

This study aimed to capture and explore family caregivers' lived experience of caring for hospitalised patients with cancer during the lockdown.

Background

The unprecedented lockdown episodes due to COVID‐19 have brought significant changes in the hospital visiting policies and caregiving practices. As part of the precautionary measures for hospital visits, the bedside companion was restricted to one caregiver for patients with cancer in Shanghai hospitals.

Design

This study adopted a descriptive phenomenological approach.

Methods

Data were collected among 20 family caregivers recruited from the Oncology department of a tertiary hospital in Shanghai in May 2022, using purposive sampling method and followed by unstructured, open‐ended interviews. Colaizzi's seven‐step data analysis method was used to analyse the data to reveal the emergent themes and subthemes of the phenomenon.

Results

Four themes were generated on family caregivers' lived experience of caring for hospitalised patients with cancer during the lockdown, including (1) Feeling scared for the patient; (2) Living a life feeling trapped under COVID‐19 surveillance; (3) Feeling neglected and unseen; (4) Growing resilience and appreciation.

Conclusions

The lockdown exacerbated the burden of family caregivers when they cared for the hospitalised patients with cancer during the lockdown period. However, positive reframing of the lived experience facilitated their coping with the challenging situation.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Findings from this study highlighted the potential proactive roles the healthcare providers could play in improving family caregivers' health and supporting them during and beyond the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Reporting Method

The study adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines; the study was reported according to the COREQ checklist.

Patient or Public Contribution

Family caregivers of patients with cancer were involved in data collection and member‐checking of the transcripts and interpretations of their experiences.
The causal effect of ethnic diversity on support for redistribution and the role of discrimination
Authors: Achard Pascal , Suetens Sigrid
Published: June 2023

We review the literature that investigates the causal effect of ethnic diversity on support for redistribution. The results indicate that ethnic diversity or an increase in the salience of ethnic minorities tends to reduce support for redistribution. Evidence is presented that this finding can be interpreted as an outcome of ethnic discrimination. Nonetheless, there is substantial heterogeneity, such that the effect of ethnic diversity on support for redistribution depends on the specific context. An important moderator of the effect is whether ethnic diversity is accompanied by interethnic contact.
Internal fixation of canine coccygeal vertebral fractures: four cases (2018‐2022)
Authors: Kalmukov I. A. , Schneider N. , Miraldo D. , Solano M. A.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

To describe the surgical technique and evaluate the outcome and complications after coccygeal vertebral fracture repair in dogs using internal fixation.

Materials and Methods

Medical records and radiography of client‐owned dogs were reviewed retrospectively. A lateral approach to the vertebral body was used, and a 1.5 or 1.0 mm plate was applied laterally. Initial follow‐up included clinical and radiographic assessment at 6 to 8 weeks postoperatively. Short‐term follow‐up was assessed by the completion of an adapted functional questionnaire by owners.

Results

Four dogs presented with mid‐vertebral body fractures. The neurological function of the tail was preserved, and fracture repair was performed in all cases. One dog developed a surgical site infection, which was successfully treated with antimicrobial therapy. One dog experienced prolonged postoperative pain and delayed union. Fracture healing occurred in all patients at the final follow‐up. Neither discomfort nor reduced function or mobility of the tails was noticed during the postoperative patient assessment. The questionnaire was completed by all owners with a mean follow‐up time of 40 weeks. Excellent outcomes were established from subsequent clinical reviews and owner questionnaires, related to their dog's activity and comfort levels.

Clinical Significance

Excellent outcomes can be achieved following the repair of coccygeal vertebral fractures in dogs using internal fixation, including a return to normal function of the tail.
Multiple micronutrient supplementation cost–benefit tool for informing maternal nutrition policy and investment decisions
Authors: Verney Allison M. J. , Busch‐Hallen Jennifer F. , Walters Dylan D. , Rowe Sarah N. , Kurzawa Zuzanna A. , Arabi Mandana
Published: June 2023

Antenatal multiple micronutrient supplementation (MMS) is an intervention that can help reach three of the six global nutrition targets, either directly or indirectly: a reduction in low birth weight, stunting, and anaemia in women of reproductive age. To support global guideline development and national decision‐making on investments into maternal nutrition, Nutrition International developed a modelling tool called the MMS cost–benefit tool to help users understand whether antenatal MMS is better value for money than iron and folic acid supplementation (IFAS) during pregnancy. The MMS cost–benefit tool can generate estimates on the potential health impact, budget impact, economic value, cost‐effectiveness and benefit–cost ratio of investing in MMS compared to IFAS in LMICs. In the 33 countries with data included in the tool, the MMS cost–benefit tool shows that transitioning is expected to generate substantial health benefits in terms of morbidity and mortality averted and can be very cost‐effective in multiple scenarios for these countries. The cost per DALY averted averages at US$ 23.61 and benefit–cost ratio ranges from US$ 41–US$ 1304: $1.0, which suggest MMS is good value for money compared with IFAS. With its user‐friendly design, open access availability, and online data‐driven analytics, the MMS cost–benefit tool can be a powerful resource for governments and nutrition partners seeking timely and evidence‐based analyses to inform policy‐decision and investments towards the scale‐up of MMS for pregnant women globally.
Second Micra leadless pacemaker implantation by using intracardiac echocardiography
Authors: Kusume Takahiro , Okano Tomoya , Onishi Masahumi , Terasawa Muryo , Yazaki Yoshinao , Satomi Kazuhiro
Published: June 2023

The strategy after battery depletion was not established in Micra leadless pacemaker system (Micra). There are still some concerns in the 2nd Micra implantation, such as the mechanical interaction between both devices. The position of the 2nd Micra should be placed apart from the 1st Micra. We present a case of 1st Micra battery depletion who successfully underwent the 2nd Micra implantation under the intracardiac echo guidance. In our case, intracardiac echo was a very effective tool for confirming the location of Micra implantation.
T‐wave oversensing after implantation of pacemakers with automatic sensitivity adjustment in patients with atrioventricular block
Authors: Takahashi Masao , Kujiraoka Hirofumi , Arai Tomoyuki , Hojo Rintaro , Fukamizu Seiji
Published: June 2023

T‐wave oversensing in pacemakers is rare because the set sensitivity is generally fixed. However, several models of pacemaker employ automatic sensitivity adjustment. Here, we present two cases of atrioventricular block treated by implantation of the pacemaker with automatic sensitivity adjustment. After implanting the pacemaker with automatic sensitivity adjustment, ventricular pacing suppression due to T‐wave oversensing occurred. In both cases, T‐wave oversensing disappeared after adjusting the setting sensitivity from 0.9 to 2.0 mV.
18O enrichment of sucrose and photosynthetic and nonphotosynthetic leaf water in a C3 grass—atmospheric drivers and physiological relations
Authors: Baca Cabrera Juan C. , Hirl Regina T. , Zhu Jianjun , Schäufele Rudi , Ogée Jérôme , Schnyder Hans
Published: June 2023

The 18O enrichment (Δ18O) of leaf water affects the Δ18O of photosynthetic products such as sucrose, generating an isotopic archive of plant function and past climate. However, uncertainty remains as to whether leaf water compartmentation between photosynthetic and nonphotosynthetic tissue affects the relationship between Δ18O of bulk leaf water (Δ18OLW) and leaf sucrose (Δ18OSucrose). We grew Lolium perenne (a C3 grass) in mesocosm‐scale, replicated experiments with daytime relative humidity (50% or 75%) and CO2 level (200, 400 or 800 μmol mol−1) as factors, and determined Δ18OLW, Δ18OSucrose and morphophysiological leaf parameters, including transpiration (Eleaf), stomatal conductance (gs) and mesophyll conductance to CO2 (gm). The Δ18O of photosynthetic medium water (Δ18OSSW) was estimated from Δ18OSucrose and the equilibrium fractionation between water and carbonyl groups (εbio). Δ18OSSW was well predicted by theoretical estimates of leaf water at the evaporative site (Δ18Oe) with adjustments that correlated with gas exchange parameters (gs or total conductance to CO2). Isotopic mass balance and published work indicated that nonphotosynthetic tissue water was a large fraction (~0.53) of bulk leaf water. Δ18OLW was a poor proxy for Δ18OSucrose, mainly due to opposite Δ18O responses of nonphotosynthetic tissue water (Δ18Onon‐SSW) relative to Δ18OSSW, driven by atmospheric conditions.
Heart transplantation in neonatal Marfan syndrome: Saving life in a rare and fatal condition
Authors: Laks Jessica A. , Lynch Aine , Honjo Osami , Grosse‐Wortmann Lars , Chitayat David , Dipchand Anne I.
Published: June 2023

Background

Neonatal Marfan syndrome is a rare disease with mortality in the first year of life reported as high as 95% predominantly due to progressive heart failure from valvar regurgitation and cardiomyopathy. Multisystem involvement and uncertain prognosis have historically precluded transplant candidacy, and current management options are of limited success.

Case Report

We present a baby girl with a postnatal diagnosis of neonatal Marfan syndrome who at 1 year of age underwent mitral valve and tricuspid valve repair with postoperative profound left ventricular and moderate right ventricular dysfunction necessitating biventricular assist device (BiVAD) support and subsequent heart transplant. A number of noncardiac issues persisted in our patient; however, she enjoyed a good quality of life for the initial 3 years posttransplant. Unfortunately, she subsequently developed rapidly progressive coronary allograft vasculopathy (CAV) with progressive deterioration in function and cardiac arrest.

Conclusion

To our best knowledge, this is only the second case of neonatal Marfan syndrome to undergo heart transplant reported in the literature and the first with BiVAD support as a bridge to candidacy. This is also the first case of neonatal Marfan syndrome associated with intragenic duplication. This case though demonstrating that earlier listing, ventricular assist device (VAD) support and even primary transplant as treatment in neonatal Marfan syndrome should all be considered viable options but also portends a cautionary tale given the spectrum of comorbidities in this rare and severe disorder.
Education for what? The politics of education for Rohingya refugees in Bangladesh
Authors: Prodip Mahbub Alam
Published: June 2023

The massive influx of Rohingyas has become one of the world's worst humanitarian and human rights crises. The Bangladesh government does not have any domestic or international regulations to set up an administrative process to address the issue of Rohingya refugees. Recently, Bangladesh and Myanmar initiated the repatriation of around 3000 Rohingyas. Yet, the repatriation process has not been successful as none of the Rohingya agreed to return to Myanmar without citizenship rights and security. Against this backdrop, this study explores whether education can act as a solution to integrate Rohingya refugees into mainstream society in Bangladesh. Applying purposive sampling, primary data was collected through semi‐structured interviews, key informant interviews, and telephone interviews. Data analysis was performed through conversation analysis. The findings reveal that the integration of Rohingya refugees through education is a far‐reaching dream as refugee management and education policies do not permit the integration of Rohingya refugees into mainstream society in Bangladesh. Rohingya refugees have demanded education as their right to develop their self‐respect and dignity. In contrast, the Bangladesh government viewed education as a relief program rather than development and integration. This article supports the claim of academics that the Bangladeshi government should provide education to Rohingya refugee children from a development perspective to protect and ensure their self‐respect and dignity.

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Byrne, Jennifer. 2016. “Contextual Identity among Liberian Refugees in Ghana: Identity Salience in a Protracted Refugee Situation.” Politics & Policy 44(4): 751–82. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12169.

Harel‐Shalev, Ayelet. 2009. “Lingual and Educational Policy toward ‘Homeland Minorities’ in Deeply Divided Societies: India and Israel as Case Studies.” Politics & Policy 37(5): 951–70. http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/j.1747‐1346.2009.00206.x/abstract.

Ravi, Chaitanya. 2021. “The 1971 Bangladesh War and Policy Lessons for Climate Refugee Management in South Asia.” Politics & Policy 49(1): 248–74. https://doi.org/10.1111/polp.12392.
Monitoring of health status, performance and transcript abundance of some genes in dairy heifers produced by embryo transfer or artificial insemination
Authors: Abdel Aziz Rabie L. , Hussein Mahmoud M. , El‐Said Hussein , Kamel Shaimaa , Ibrahim Marwa A. , Abdel‐Wahab Ahmed
Published: June 2023

The use of multiple ovulation and embryo transfer (MOET) technology in the dairy cattle industry has increased dramatically in recent decades for the production of offspring from genetically superior cows. Yet, its long‐term ramifications on adult performance have not been adequately clarified. Therefore, this study targeted comparing dairy heifers born after the transfer of in vivo‐produced embryos (MOET‐heifers, n = 400) and those born after artificial insemination (AI‐heifers, n = 340). The performance of MOET‐heifers and AI‐heifers was compared from birth till completion of the first lactation regarding health, fertility and some lactational performance parameters. The transcript abundance of several genes was also assessed in peripheral blood leukocytes (PBWC). Results showed greater pre‐weaning mortalities, greater likelihood of being culled as a nulliparous heifer and younger age at first insemination in AI‐heifers (p < .001). At their first calving, primiparous MOET‐heifers experienced a greater (p < .01) incidence of stillbirth compared to primiparous AI‐heifers. In spite of that, primiparous AI‐heifers were more likely to be culled due to infertility (p < .001), took a greater number of inseminations to achieve pregnancy (p < .01) and displayed a longer first calving interval. There was a similar lactational performance between the two groups. Upregulation of the transcript levels of TAC3, LOC522763, TFF2, SAXO2, CNKSR3 and ALAS2 was interestingly observed in primiparous MOET‐heifers, compared to primiparous AI‐heifers. In conclusion, MOET‐heifers were less likely to be culled during the first year of life, had superior reproductive performance versus AI‐heifers during their first lactation and expressed upregulation of genes associated with fertility.