bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of X-Salt characterization: a salt-based construction material using natural adhesives for additive manufacturing
Authors: El-Mahdy Deena , Gabr Hisham S. , Abdelmohsen Sherif
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Despite the dramatic increase in construction toward additive manufacturing, several challenges are faced using natural materials such as Earth and salt compared to the most market-useable materials in 3D printing as concrete which consumes high carbon emission.

Design/methodology/approach

Characterization and mechanical tests were conducted on 19 samples for three natural binders in dry and wet tests to mimic the additive manufacturing process in order to reach an efficient extrudable and printable mixture that fits the 3D printer.

Findings

Upon testing compressive strength against grain size, compaction, cohesion, shape, heat and water content, X-Salt was shown to record high compressive strength of 9.5 MPa. This is equivalent to old Karshif and fire bricks and surpasses both rammed Earth and new Karshif. Material flow analysis for X-Salt assessing energy usage showed that only 10% recycled waste was produced by the end of the life cycle compared to salt.

Research limitations/implications

Findings are expected to upscale the use of 3D salt printing in on-site and off-site architectural applications.

Practical implications

Findings contribute to attempts to resolve challenges related to vernacular architecture using 3D salt printing with sufficient stability.

Social implications

Benefits include recyclability and minimum environmental impact. Social aspects related to technology integration remain however for further research.

Originality/value

This paper expands the use of Karshif, a salt-based traditional building material in Egypt's desert by using X-Salt, a salt-base and natural adhesive, and investigating its printability by testing its mechanical properties to reach a cleaner and low-cost sustainable 3D printed mixture.
A balanced approach involving hard and soft factors for internalizing Lean Management and Six Sigma in hospitals
Authors: De Koeijer Relinde , Strating Mathilde , Paauwe Jaap , Huijsman Robbert
Published: October 2022

Purpose

This study examines the theoretical and empirical relationships between LM&SS, human resource management (HRM), climate for LM&SS and outcomes (employee well-being and performance) in hospitals. As part of this research, the authors examine the interplay between “hard” and “soft” practices for LM&SS and “soft” HR practices.

Design/methodology/approach

A cross-sectional, multisite survey study covering all internal service units at all eight Dutch university hospitals was conducted (42 units,N = 218 supervisors,N = 1,668 employees), and multivariate multilevel regression analyses were performed.

Findings

A systems approach involving “soft” LM&SS practices that are specifically HR-related has a positive effect (βis 0.46) on a climate for LM&SS. A climate for LM&SS is not related to perceived performance or employee health. It is, however, positively related to employee happiness and trusting relationships (bothβs are 0.33). We did not find that a climate for LM&SS had a mediating effect.

Research limitations/implications

This study shows that a balanced approach involving both “hard” and “soft” factors is crucial to achieving the desired breadth and depth of LM&SS adoption at the macro, meso, and micro levels. The authors found that a climate for LM&SS positively affects employee well-being in hospitals.

Practical implications

In their attempt to create mutual gains for both their organization and their employees, hospitals that adopt LM&SS should foster a climate for LM&SS by embracing a balanced approach consisting of both “hard” and “soft” practices, thereby internalizing LM&SS at the macro, meso, and micro levels.

Originality/value

This is one of the first studies to examine in-depth the impact of “hard” and “soft” LM&SS on both employee well-being (subdivided into different components) and performance in healthcare, as well as the role of “soft” HRM in this relationship. Linking LM&SS, HRM and outcomes to a climate for LM&SS is relatively a new approach and has led to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms underpinning the internalization of LM&SS in healthcare.
Role of the emergency department in implementing an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation cardiopulmonary resuscitation
Authors: Gilbert Felicity , Mitchell Gary , Townsend Shane , Dhanani Jayesh , Sng Nicole
Published: October 2022

The Royal Brisbane and Women's Hospital has introduced an extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) cardiopulmonary resuscitation (E‐CPR) service with collaboration between ED and ICU teams for refractory cardiac arrest patients. E‐CPR is potentially beneficial to patients who do not gain return of spontaneous circulation after conventional advanced cardiac life support treatments, provided specific demographic and biochemical inclusion criteria are met. A joint ICU and ED decision is reached to commence ECMO flow. We discuss our rationale to use the ED and the emergency physician role in leading the multidisciplinary team, with ICU leading the cannulation team. The development of ED processes and the increased availability of this intervention can significantly impact the survivability of refractory cardiac arrest with good neurological outcomes.
Fungal microbiomes associated with Lycopodiaceae during ecological succession
Authors: Perez‐Lamarque Benoît , Laurent‐Webb Liam , Bourceret Amélia , Maillet Louis , Bik Francis , Cartier Denis , Labolle François , Holveck Pascal , Epp Didier , Selosse Marc‐André
Published: October 2022

Lycopodiaceae species form an early‐diverging plant family, characterized by achlorophyllous and subterranean gametophytes that rely on mycorrhizal fungi for their nutrition. Lycopodiaceae often emerge after a disturbance, like in the Hochfeld reserve (Alsace, France) where seven lycopod species appeared on new ski trails following a forest cut. Here, to better understand their ecological dynamic, we conducted a germination experiment of lycopod spores following an anthropogenic disturbance and examined their associated fungi. Only 12% of the samples germinated, and all gametophytes were abundantly colonized by a specific clade of Densosporaceae (Endogonales, Mucoromycotina), which were also present in the roots of lycopod sporophytes, but absent from the ungerminated spores and the roots of surrounding herbaceous plants, suggesting high mycorrhizal specificity in Lycopodiaceae. In addition, ungerminated spores were profusely parasitized by chytrid fungi, also present in the surrounding lycopod gametophytes and sporophytes, which might explain the low spore germination rate. Altogether, the requirement of specific mycorrhizal Mucoromycotina fungi and the high prevalence of parasites may explain why Lycopodiaceae are often rare pioneer species in temperate regions, limited to the first stages of ecological succession. This illustrates the primordial roles that belowground microbes play in aboveground plant dynamics.
A guide to sampling design for GPS‐based studies of animal societies
Authors: He Peng , Klarevas‐Irby James A. , Papageorgiou Danai , Christensen Charlotte , Strauss Eli D. , Farine Damien R.
Published: October 2022

GPS‐based tracking is widely used for studying wild social animals. Much like traditional observational methods, using GPS devices requires making a number of decisions about sampling that can affect the robustness of a study's conclusions. For example, sampling fewer individuals per group across more distinct social groups may not be sufficient to infer group‐ or subgroup‐level behaviours, while sampling more individuals per group across fewer groups limits the ability to draw conclusions about populations.

Here, we provide quantitative recommendations when designing GPS‐based tracking studies of animal societies. We focus on the trade‐offs between three fundamental axes of sampling effort: (1) sampling coverage—the number and allocation of GPS devices among individuals in one or more social groups; (2) sampling duration—the total amount of time over which devices collect data and (3) sampling frequency—the temporal resolution at which GPS devices record data.

We first test GPS tags under field conditions to quantify how these aspects of sampling design can affect both GPS accuracy (error in absolute positional estimates) and GPS precision (error in the estimate relative position of two individuals), demonstrating that GPS error can have profound effects when inferring distances between individuals. We then use data from whole‐group tracked vulturine guineafowl Acryllium vulturinum to demonstrate how the trade‐off between sampling frequency and sampling duration can impact inferences of social interactions and to quantify how sampling coverage can affect common measures of social behaviour in animal groups, identifying which types of measures are more or less robust to lower coverage of individuals. Finally, we use data‐informed simulations to extend insights across groups of different sizes and cohesiveness.

Based on our results, we are able to offer a range of recommendations on GPS sampling strategies to address research questions across social organizational scales and social systems—from group movement to social network structure and collective decision‐making.

Our study provides practical advice for empiricists to navigate their decision‐making processes when designing GPS‐based field studies of animal social behaviours, and highlights the importance of identifying the optimal deployment decisions for drawing informative and robust conclusions.
Becoming with Education‐Based Social Movements through Diffractive Analysis
Authors: O’Donnell Jennifer Lee , Sadlier Stephen T.
Published: October 2022

In this article, we provide an overview of diffraction theory, followed by an explanation of diffraction as an analytical methodology. We highlight how tools like the agential cut can be used to redraw the boundaries of ethnographic research so that data can be a continuous becoming with the researcher. We offer vignettes from our work on education‐based social movements that demonstrate how the agential cut opens a viewpoint for understanding our data in unforeseen ways.
Digital inclusion in Spanish mainstream and special schools: Teachers' perceptions of Internet use by students with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Chiner Esther , Gómez‐Puerta Marcos , Cardona‐Moltó María Cristina
Published: October 2022

Accessible summary

Students with intellectual disabilities in mainstream and special schools can benefit from information and communication technologies, including the Internet.

We asked teachers about the benefits, risks and safety of online activities for students with intellectual disabilities.

Teachers perceive that online activities are not safe enough for this group.

Teachers in special and mainstream schools hold different perceptions.

Teacher training is necessary to promote digital inclusion.
Using a biopsychosocial approach to examine parental sense of burden and competency associated with raising a child with a physical disability
Authors: Barak Sharon , Elad Dina , Gutman Dafna , Silberg Tamar
Published: October 2022

Background

Parents report both positive and negative experiences associated with raising a child with a physical disability. However, distinctive factors may affect children and families differently.

Aims

Using a biopsychosocial approach, the current study expands on the existing literature on the general impact of raising a child with a disability.

Methods

Participants were 98 parents of children/youth with a physical disability. Parents reported on child's level of physical disability, the impact of the disability on the family (financial, social, personal strain and mastery) and their general health. Data were analysed to examine how different biopsychosocial factors are associated with raising a child with a physical disability.

Results

Parents reported that child's disability had a higher social impact, compared with the financial and personal burden, as well as compared with their sense of competency and mastery. Child's level of disability was associated with financial burden, whereas parental emotional distress was associated with parents' personal and social burden, with the latter also associated with parent's religiosity. Total impact was associated with parental emotional distress and educational level.

Conclusions

Altogether, parental characteristics, but not child's characteristics, were associated with greater caregiver burden. Furthermore, the social impact a child's physical disability has on the family exceeded other sources of burden within the family. Providing parents social and emotional support, tailored to their unique biopsychosocial needs, may mitigate burden and distress, and increase sense of competency among families of children with a physical disability.
HDRNet: High‐Dimensional Regression Network for Point Cloud Registration
Authors: Gao Jian , Zhang Yuhe , Liu Zehua , Li Siyi
Published: October 2022

Abstract‐3D point cloud registration is a crucial topic in the reverse engineering, computer vision and robotics fields. The core of this problem is to estimate a transformation matrix for aligning the source point cloud with a target point cloud. Several learning‐based methods have achieved a high performance. However, they are challenged with both partial overlap point clouds and multiscale point clouds, since they use the singular value decomposition (SVD) to find the rotation matrix without fully considering the scale information. Furthermore, previous networks cannot effectively handle the point clouds having large initial rotation angles, which is a common practical case. To address these problems, this paper presents a learning‐based point cloud registration network, namely HDRNet, which consists of four stages: local feature extraction, correspondence matrix estimation, feature embedding and fusion and parametric regression. HDRNet is robust to noise and large rotation angles, and can effectively handle the partial overlap and multi‐scale point clouds registration. The proposed model is trained on the ModelNet40 dataset, and compared with ICP, SICP, FGR and recent learning‐based methods (PCRNet, IDAM, RGMNet and GMCNet) under several settings, including its performance on moving to invisible objects, with higher success rates. To verify the effectiveness and generality of our model, we also further tested our model on the Stanford 3D scanning repository.
Getting the guts to expand stroke treatment: The potential for microbiome targeted therapies
Authors: Monsour Molly , Croci Davide M. , Agazzi Siviero , Borlongan Cesario V.
Published: October 2022

Aims

This review focuses on the recent literature regarding the role of the gut‐brain axis (GBA) following ischemic stroke.

Discussion

Stroke is the 5th leading cause of death and disability in the United States; however, few therapies have been developed to improve prognoses. There is a plethora of evidence suggesting peripheral inflammatory responses play a large role in the pathogenesis of stroke. Additionally, hyperglycemic conditions may play a significant role in worsening stroke outcomes due to microbiome dysbiosis.

Conclusion

Recent research has illuminated the vital role of the GBA in propagating poor clinical outcomes, such as hemorrhagic transformation, following ischemic stroke. Considering this detrimental consequence of stroke, and the apparent role of the GBA role, future therapeutics should aim to mitigate this peripheral contribution to stroke complications.
Evaluation of myocardial work in patients with resistant arterial hypertension
Authors: de Andrade Hygidio Daniel , Le Bihan David , Batista Souza Jonathan , Bellio de Mattos Barretto Rodrigo , Mathias Wilson , Gonçalves de Sousa Marcio
Published: October 2022

Aims

Individuals with resistant arterial hypertension are particularly at risk of developing target organ damage and cardiovascular events. The advanced echocardiography technique called myocardial work (MW), through the analysis of the left ventricular pressure‐strain loop, is among the possibilities for evaluating these individuals. Our study was designed to describe the behavior of MW indices in individuals with resistant arterial hypertension (RH), controlled hypertension (CH), and normal arterial pressure (N).

Methods and Results

Seventy‐one patients underwent Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring (ABPM) and were characterized into three groups after a medical consult: RH (subjects with hypertension on four or more antihypertensive medications despite having controlled blood pressure); CH (subjects with hypertension on up to two antihypertensive medications); and N (individuals with normal ABPM; not using any medications). Echocardiographic analysis was performed using the Vivid E95 ultrasound system and blood pressure was measured at the time of the examination and subsequently used to determine myocardial work indices. RH demonstrated lower global work efficiency (GWE, mean = .95%; p = .005) and higher global wasted work (GWW, mean = 114 mm Hg%; p = .011) compared to other groups. Left ventricular mass measured by three‐dimensional echocardiography, systolic wall stress, relative wall thickness and peak systolic dispersion were inversely correlated to GWE. No difference was observed between CH and N groups regarding MW indices. On multivariate analysis, only systolic wall stress remained as an independent predictor of GWE, when controlled by 3D mass index, relative wall thickness, peak systolic dispersion, and the hypertension group.

Conclusion

Individuals with resistant hypertension have lower global work efficiency and higher global wasted work, compared to individuals with controlled hypertension and without arterial hypertension.
Sex‐specific and hormone‐related differences in vascular remodelling in atherosclerosis
Authors: Yerly Anaïs , van der Vorst Emiel P. C. , Baumgartner Iris , Bernhard Sarah Maike , Schindewolf Marc , Döring Yvonne
Published: October 2022

Atherosclerosis, a lipid‐driven inflammatory disease, is the main underlying cause of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) both in men and women. Sex‐related dimorphisms regarding CVDs and atherosclerosis were observed since more than a decade ago. Inflammatory mediators such as cytokines, but also endothelial dysfunction, vascular smooth muscle cell migration and proliferation lead to vascular remodelling but are differentially affected by sex. Each year a greater number of men die of CVDs compared with women and are also affected by CVDs at an earlier age (40–70 years old) while women develop atherosclerosis‐related complications mainly after menopause (60+ years). The exact biological reasons behind this discrepancy are still not well‐understood. From the numerous animal studies on atherosclerosis, only a few include both sexes and even less investigate and highlight the sex‐specific differences that may arise. Endogenous sex hormones such as testosterone and oestrogen modulate the atherosclerotic plaque composition and the frequency of such plaques. In men, testosterone seems to act like a double‐edged sword as its decrease with ageing correlates with an increased risk of atherosclerotic CVDs, while testosterone is also reported to promote inflammatory immune cell recruitment into the atherosclerotic plaque. In premenopausal women, oestrogen exerts anti‐atherosclerotic effects, which decline together with its level after menopause resulting in increased CVD risk in ageing women. However, the interplay of sex hormones, sex‐specific immune responses and other sex‐related factors is still incompletely understood. This review highlights reported sex differences in atherosclerotic vascular remodelling and the role of endogenous sex hormones in this process.
The refined management of medical finance combined with information technology construction
Authors: Liu Dong‐e
Published: October 2022

Based on the information construction and taking a hospital as an example, this paper analyzes the current situation, existing problems, and reasons for financial management. This paper puts forward the scheme of optimizing hospital financial management and points out that accounting, asset management, cost management, and performance are all based on accounting. Even though with the continuous improvement and development of hospital informatization, various infrastructures have been built, the problems are more prominent. This can be solved by improving the focus on the products, and processes by reducing waste, or by increasing the quality. In hospitals, the core layer of hospital information technology is the financial management construction and development, and it is also an indispensable factor. It is better to improve the hospital's financial fine management level and promote the hospital's sustainable development. It is not enough to improve the assessment management and comprehensive budget management. It is necessary to integrate the perfect Health Information System, enterprise resource planning system, scientific research system, and structured query language database, establish a comprehensive financial management platform, and obtain data information and indicators of various economic operations in hospitals. Experiments show that the consumables sorting optimization algorithm in this paper can improve the equipment management of medical finance to some extent. In other aspects, this system also incorporates information technology to make enhancements to the original financial management.
Effects of temperature on monarch caterpillar pigment variation in nature
Authors: Tseng Michelle , Bevanda Carolina , Bhatti Sahibveer Singh , Black Emily N. , Chang Elizabeth , Chiang Jonathan , Dhaliwal Harleen , Dimitriou Alexandra , Gong Sunny Y. , Halbe Eashan , Harris Noam , Huntsman Lydia , Lipka Jennifer Ann , Malloff Juniper , McHugh Erin , Mikkelsen Mira , Noroozbahari Armin , Olson Amelija , Pirouz Daniel , Ramanathan Kishoore , Rogers Maryann , Singh Suman , Skurnac Jenna Rachel , Straus Samantha , Sun Yolanda , Sun Yu Jia , Wang Grace , Wong Justin Kwong Ching
Published: October 2022

1. Insect colour patterns serve a wide range of ecological functions and the biotic and abiotic factors mediating colour variation in nature have been well characterised.

2. Nonetheless, the majority of studies in this field have focused on adult insects (particularly butterflies). Almost nothing is known about the factors that mediate intra‐specific colour variation in juveniles in nature, even though they are often as conspicuously coloured as their adult counterparts.

3. Here we show that temperature predicts a small but significant amount of monarch (Danaus plexippus) caterpillar pigment variation in nature. Over a 650,000‐km2 region in Canada and the USA, caterpillars found in warmer locations or lower latitudes had thinner black stripes than those found in colder locations or higher latitudes. Caterpillars have also become less black over the last five years, a result consistent with observed short‐term increases in summer temperature in this region.

4. Our study demonstrates that the relationship between temperature and monarch caterpillar pigmentation seen in laboratory settings is also apparent in nature, although with considerable variation. Our study also highlights the utility of online biodiversity repositories such as iNaturalist for characterising pattern and colour variation in nature.
Health action process approach in oral health behaviour: Target interventions, constructs and groups—A systematic review
Authors: van Nes Karin Alexandra , van Loveren Cor , Luteijn Michiel Fridthjof , Slot Dagmar Else
Published: October 2022

Objective

The aim of this study was to systematically map the Health Action Process Approach (HAPA)‐based interventions in dentistry in relation to the type of intervention, the target groups and the constructs of the HAPA model that are used in the study and to assess the clinical relevance of the studies.

Methods

A search in the databases of the National Library of Medicine (MEDLINE‐PubMed), PsychINFO and Cochrane‐CENTRAL was conducted. A quality assessment to estimate the risk of bias and a qualitative descriptive analysis were performed. The overall gathered evidence was graded.

Results

Ten randomized controlled trials and three observational studies thus in total 13 studies were included. Flossing was the targeted behaviour in ten studies. The target groups consisted of students, adolescents and dental patients. Overall, all nine HAPA constructs were used, but only one study used all HAPA constructs. Six studies presented the used behavioural change techniques according to the BCT taxonomy. Based on the number of the used constructs, only two studies were classified as HAPA intervention studies. The most frequently used constructs were action control as an intervention and behaviour as an outcome measure. The overall evidence was graded with moderate certainty.

Conclusion

In the majority of the studies, the targeted intervention was flossing and the population consisted of students, adolescents and dental patients. All studies used only a selection of the HAPA constructs. Therefore, only a minority of the studies can be considered real HAPA intervention studies.
A systemic study on the effect of egg white protein and isomalto‐oligosaccharide mixture on the functional and gelation properties of Culter alburnus myofibrillar protein during long‐term frozen storage
Authors: Zhang Zhongli , Xiong Zhouyi , Xiong Hanguo , Walayat Noman , Nawaz Asad , Khalifa Ibrahim , Aadil Rana Muhammad , Li Sha , Lorenzo Rodriguez Jose M.
Published: October 2022

The protective effects of egg white protein (EWP) and isomalto‐oligosaccharide (IMO) mixture (EWP/IMO, 1:1, m/m) on Culter alburnus myofibrillar proteins (Mfp) during long‐term frozen storage were systemically evaluated by comparing Mfp samples treated with EWP/IMO, IMO or EWP alone, using sample without any of them as blank control. After long‐term frozen storage, 1% IMO and 1% EWP/IMO were more effective than 1% EWP in reducing oxidative denaturation‐induced changes in functional groups and conformational sites of Mfp. Additionally, after frozen storage for 60 days, Mfp emulsion activity index (EAI) and emulsion stability index (ESI) were significantly (P < 0.05) higher in 1% IMO (20.68 m2 g−1 vs. 56.54%) and 1% EWP/IMO (18.47 m2 g−1 vs. 53.09%) than in 1% EWP (16.73 m2 g−1 vs. 45.98%) and blank control (15.16 m2 g−1 vs. 40.13%). Furthermore, Mfp gel strength was significantly (P < 0.05) higher in 1% EWP/IMO (7.14 g cm−1) than in IMO (6.33 g cm−1), EWP (5.34 g cm−1) and blank control (4.58 g cm−1). Moreover, rheological test and LF‐NMR results showed that adding EWP/IMO could more effectively improve Mfp gel viscoelasticity and three‐dimensional gel network than adding EWP or IMO alone. This study provides a new theoretical perspective for applying EWP/IMO as a potential low‐temperature protective agent in protein‐based gel products.
Pickering emulsion stabilised by double‐modified starch particles and its delivery property for curcumin
Authors: Gong Hui , Lin Shunshun , Ren Hongtao , Song Xiaoyan , Zhao Quanzhi
Published: October 2022

Rice starch was hydrophobised by octenyl succinic anhydride (OSA) and then modified by roast dry heating at 180°C for 40 min (RDH‐40) to improve its digestibility. The oil‐in‐water Pickering emulsions stabilised by double‐modified starch particles were fabricated. The emulsion stability under different formulation parameters was investigated. Results showed that the suitable parameters for fabrication of Pickering emulsion were RDH‐40 concentration of 4.0 wt.%, oil volume ratio of 50% and pH of the system was 7.0. The addition of NaCl and sucrose (0–200 mmol/L) slightly reduced the emulsion stability. Microstructure results revealed that the starch particles and a few gelatinized starch macromolecules distributed around the oil droplets, making the emulsion more stable. Compared with the emulsions stabilised by Tween 20 and OSA starch, the Pickering emulsion stabilised by 4.0% RDH‐40 starch showed the highest loading and embedding rates for curcumin at 25 and 40°C. The emulsion stabilised by RDH‐40 had a faster free fatty acid release rate and higher curcumin bioaccessibility than that stabilised by OSA starch during in vitro digestion. This study helps to develop new starch‐based Pickering emulsions for the delivery of oil‐soluble bioactive substances.
Development and exacerbation of autoimmune hemolytic anemia following COVID‐19 vaccination: A systematic review
Authors: Jafarzadeh Abdollah , Jafarzadeh Sara , Pardehshenas Mohammad , Nemati Maryam , Mortazavi Seyed Mohammad Javad
Published: October 2022

Autoimmune hemolytic anemia (AIHA) is caused by the production of autoantibodies against RBCs. COVID‐19 vaccines can reduce the risk of severe disease, however, various adverse effects such as AIHA were observed following vaccination. This review aimed to assess the relationship of AIHA and COVID‐19 vaccination using the PRISMA guidelines. Among 18 cases included in this review, new post‐vaccination AIHA development was reported in 11 patients (7 women and 4 men) with a median age of 67.0 years. In 7 of 11 and 3 of 11 cases, the onset of symptoms occurred after first and second vaccine dose with median times of 7 and 14 days, respectively. In 1 of 11 cases, the AIHA occurred on Day 17 after booster vaccination. Ten of 11 and 1 of 11 AIHA patients received mRNA‐ and vector‐based vaccine, respectively. After vaccination, 9 of 11, 1 of 11, and 1 of 11 AIHA patients developed warm IgG, cold IgM, and mixed autoantibodies against RBCs, respectively. Significant AIHA exacerbation was reported in seven patients (four women and three men) with a median age of 73.0 years. In 4 of 7 and 2 of 7 exacerbated AIHA cases, the onset of symptoms occurred after first and second vaccine dose with median times of 7 and 3 days, respectively. In 1 of 7 exacerbated AIHA cases, the onset of symptoms was observed on Day 2 after booster vaccination. All exacerbated AIHA cases received mRNA‐based vaccines; 3 of 7 and 4 of 7 exacerbated AIHA cases developed IgG and IgM against RBCs, respectively. This review provides a comprehensive explanation regarding the AIHA development and exacerbation after COVID‐19 vaccination.
Novel efficient SrMgY3(SiO4)3F:Ce3+,Tb3+ phosphor with tunable color and thermal stability through energy transfer
Authors: Lu Zheng , Sun Dashuai , Lyu Zeyu , Shen Sida , Wang Lixuan , Wang Jianhui , Zhao Hanwei , You Hongpeng
Published: October 2022

A novel apatite‐type SrMgY3(SiO4)3F was synthesized by a high‐temperature solid‐state reaction. The crystal structure was refined using powder X‐ray diffraction data. SrMgY3(SiO4)3F crystallizes in P63/m hexagonal space group with lattice parameters of a = b = 9.45270 Å, c = 6.77617 Å, and V = 524.357 Å3. The incorporation of the Ce3+ and Tb3+ ions into the matrix can generate bright blue and green lights under ultraviolet (UV) light excitation. The codoped Ce3+ and Tb3+ in SrMgY3(SiO4)3F can effectively improve green emission intensity and thermal stability through the energy transfer from the Ce3+ to Tb3+ ions. With the increase of Tb3+‐doping content, the luminescent color of phosphor changes from blue to cyan and finally to green. SrMgY3(SiO4)3F:0.06Ce3+,0.90Tb3+ phosphor exhibited intense green light emission with a quantum yield of 59.49% and good thermal stability, with an emission intensity at 150°C was 96% of that at 30°C. Finally, the prepared sample was coated on 365 nm UV chips to fabricate white light‐emitting diodes with a color rendering index of 82.6 and a correlated color temperature of 2912 K, demonstrating its potential for applications in display and lighting.
Atrial electrogram amplitude variability during atrial fibrillation ablation
Authors: Hangiel Urszula , Kuśnierz Jacek , Bardyszewski Aleksander , Dzwonkowska Dobromiła , Polańska‐Skrzypczyk Magdalena , Derejko Paweł
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Variability of the bipolar atrial electrogram amplitude may affect voltage maps created during ablation procedures, and thus also the extent of ablations. Therefore, the aim of the study was to assess the beat‐to‐beat electrogram amplitude variability in the left atrium in patients undergoing atrial fibrillation ablation.

Methods

In 11 patients undergoing ablation for atrial fibrillation, 362 mapping points were collected in two series. At each point, three consecutive beats were recorded and verified including the bipolar electrogram amplitude, contact force (CF), and orientation of the catheter tip. The repeatability and reproducibility of obtained measurements between consecutive beats and series were assessed by the Pearson correlation coefficient (r), the Bland‐Altman test, repeatability coefficient (RC), relative standard deviation (RSD), and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC).

Results

A total of 1086 beats were analyzed. The correlation coefficient for bipolar atrial electrogram amplitude for the first two beats, and for the first and the third beats were 0.94 and 0.86, respectively. The average of differences between the first two beats and between the first and the third beats were 0.06 and 0.13 mV with 95% limits of agreement (LoA) within ±0.98 and ±1.74 mV, respectively. For CF values ≤5 and ≥20 g, the 95% LoA were narrower compared to other CF ranges and were ±0.49 and ±0.71 mV from the average value, respectively. When the analyzes were performed within the predefined ranges of bipolar electrogram amplitude: 0.05–1; 1–2; 2–3 mV, the 95% LoA were within ±0.33, ±0.98, and ±0.84 mV from the average value, respectively. RC and RSD were 1.41 mV and 20.8%, respectively. For repeated measurement between series, CCC ranged from 0.67 to 0.71 and the 95% LoA were within ±2.7 to 2.9 mV from the average value.

Conclusion

Bipolar atrial electrogram amplitude recorded at a given site during ablation procedures is variable to an extent that may be clinically relevant. The magnitude of the observed variability is greater during remapping.
Phosphatase and tensin homologue determine inflammatory status by differentially regulating the expression of Akt1 and Akt2 in macrophage alternative polarization of periodontitis
Authors: Wu Xiaowei , Wang Yidi , Chen Haotian , Wang Yixiang , Gu Yan
Published: October 2022

Aim

Macrophages are closely involved in periodontitis. However, the molecular mechanism by which macrophages influence periodontitis is not well understood. We investigated the effects of phosphatase and tensin homologue (PTEN) on macrophage polarization, the underlying mechanism and the regulatory roles in periodontium regeneration.

Materials and Methods

PTEN expression in periodontitis macrophages was detected ex vivo. The effects of PTEN on macrophage polarization and the underlying mechanisms were investigated in vitro. We also analysed the ability of PTEN inhibitors to repair periodontitis in vivo in a ligature‐induced mouse model of periodontitis.

Results

Macrophage PTEN expression in periodontitis patients was significantly higher than that of controls. PTEN inhibition in macrophages induced alternative macrophage polarization, whereas PTEN overexpression facilitated classical polarization. PTEN inhibition facilitated activation of Akt1 while inhibiting expression of Akt2. Furthermore, Akt2 overexpression could rescue the effects of PTEN inhibition on NF‐κB. Treatment with a PTEN inhibitor significantly attenuated the local inflammatory status and prevented alveolar bone resorption in the mouse model.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that PTEN inhibition could induce alternative macrophage polarization by differentially regulating Akt1 and Akt2. This also changed a pro‐inflammatory microenvironment to an anti‐inflammatory environment by subsequently regulating the expression of NF‐κB, thereby attenuating inflammatory alveolar bone resorption induced by ligature.
CHH methylation of genes associated with fatty acid and jasmonate biosynthesis contributes to cold tolerance in autotetraploids of Poncirus trifoliata
Authors: Wang Yue , Zuo Lanlan , Wei Tonglu , Zhang Yu , Zhang Yang , Ming Ruhong , Bachar Dahro , Xiao Wei , Madiha Khan , Chen Chuanwu , Fan Qijun , Li Chunlong , Liu Ji‐Hong
Published: October 2022

Polyploids have elevated stress tolerance, but the underlying mechanisms remain largely elusive. In this study, we showed that naturally occurring tetraploid plants of trifoliate orange (Poncirus trifoliata (L.) Raf.) exhibited enhanced cold tolerance relative to their diploid progenitors. Transcriptome analysis revealed that whole‐genome duplication was associated with higher expression levels of a range of well‐characterized cold stress‐responsive genes. Global DNA methylation profiling demonstrated that the tetraploids underwent more extensive DNA demethylation in comparison with the diploids under cold stress. CHH methylation in the promoters was associated with up‐regulation of related genes, whereas CG, CHG, and CHH methylation in the 3'‐regions was relevant to gene down‐regulation. Of note, genes involved in unsaturated fatty acids (UFAs) and jasmonate (JA) biosynthesis in the tetraploids displayed different CHH methylation in the gene flanking regions and were prominently up‐regulated, consistent with greater accumulation of UFAs and JA when exposed to the cold stress. Collectively, our findings explored the difference in cold stress response between diploids and tetraploids at both transcriptional and epigenetic levels, and gained new insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying enhanced cold tolerance of the tetraploid. These results contribute to uncovering a novel regulatory role of DNA methylation in better cold tolerance of polyploids.
The ubiquitin‐proteasome system in melanin metabolism
Authors: Shi Jingpei , Guo Yanfang , Wang Hanying , Xiao Yun , Liu Weimin , Lyu Lechun
Published: October 2022

Background

The ubiquitin‐proteasome system (UPS) is a highly conserved way of regulating intracellular protein balance. UPS mediates proteolysis and disruption of variation or misfolding, while finely regulating proteins involved in differentiation and other biological processes.

Aims

The aim of this review is to systematically introduce UPS as a key regulator of melanin metabolism.

Methods

Systematic search and retrospective review were performed on the published data.

Results

Melanocyte‐inducing transcription factor (MITF) is a substrate of the ubiquitin ligase VCHL1 and acts as a transcription factor to regulate the expression of key enzymes in melanin synthesis such as tyrosinase (TYR). The rate‐limiting enzyme TYR is modified by the ubiquitin ligase Hrd1 during melanosynthesis. Melanin itself is also regulated by multiple ubiquitin ligases including Fbp1 and Vhl. By regulating the ubiquitination modification to target each link of melanin synthesis, it plays an important role in correcting the disorder of melanin metabolism. A number of chemical agents have been proven to inhibit the activity of ubiquitin ligase.

Conclusions

Drugs targeting E3 ligase and deubiquitinating enzymes have great potential in the treatment of melanin metabolism disorders.
Comparison of two devices for facial skin analysis
Authors: Cook Madison K. , Kaszycki Margaret A. , Richardson Irma , Taylor Sarah L. , Feldman Steven R.
Published: October 2022

Background

The use of quantitative measures to assess patients' skin has turned the subjective nature of dermatology into an objective one. These measures allow for more accurate diagnosis and improved monitoring of diseases. While there are many skin analysis devices available, they often require specific equipment to function and can be costly, limiting their clinical use.

Aims

The aim of our study was to compare a new skin analysis device that is easy to incorporate into dermatologic practice to a standard validated device.

Methods

We recruited 50 patients from dermatology clinics and analyzed their skin with two facial analysis systems: an online application that can be downloaded on either an iPad or iPhone, and a computer‐based analysis system that utilizes a facial imaging photobooth. Scores were recorded and compared between the two devices for the following five skin characteristics; “spots,” “wrinkles,” “redness,” “texture,” and “pores.”

Results

The tablet and the computer analysis system had an agreement rate of 67.7%. The highest agreement was in assessing texture (72.0%) and pores (68.2%). The lowest agreeance was in assessing redness (64%) and wrinkles (67%). When assessing the relationship between patients' raw score for wrinkles and their age, there was a strong correlation with the tablet (r = 0.79, p < 0.0001) compared with the computer system (r = 0.26, p < 0.06).

Conclusions

The application utilized in our study may serve as a cost‐effective and clinic friendly tool to assess patients' skin. It produces similar results to other skin analysis devices and may be more sensitive in detecting and quantifying wrinkles.
Filler‐based correction of tear trough depressions and eye bags in Japanese patients: A classification system and treatment algorithm
Authors: Kato Kiyoko , Kajiwara Tomoe , Furuyama Nobutaka , Liew Steven
Published: October 2022

Background

Tear trough depressions are widely treated with fillers. However, it is questionable whether the same strategies can always be used for Caucasian and Japanese patients, owing to differences in bone and skin structures and epithelial thickness.

Aims

To assess a novel classification system and treatment algorithm for correcting tear trough depressions and eye bags in Japanese patients.

Methods

Tear trough depressions can be classified into three types according to the presence or absence of a “negative vector” based on retrusion of the maxilla relative to the anterior corneal surface, with or without eye‐bag protrusion when smiling. Type 1 patients (without the negative vector) can be treated simply by filling the depression in the tear trough and the palpebromalar groove region. Type 2 patients (with a negative vector and no eye‐bag protrusion on smiling) also require volume restoration in the mid‐cheek (deep medial cheek fat, suborbicularis oculi fat, and pre‐maxillary space); this not only enables volume recovery but also compensates for maxillary deficiency. Type 3 patients (with a negative vector and eye‐bag protrusion on smiling) require an additional step, based on placing a filler in front of the eye bags and pushing orbital fat backward.

Results

Case presentations demonstrate the utility of the techniques involved.

Conclusions

This system provides a simple and practical method for classifying and treating Japanese patients with tear trough depressions and eye bags. Further studies are warranted.
Does trigonelline help skin tone? Molecular docking studies of trigonelline on the human tyrosinase, formulation, optimization, and characterization of an emulgel‐containing Trigonella foenum‐graecum L. fenugreek standardized hydroalcoholic extract
Authors: Masjedi Moein , Solhjoo Aida
Published: October 2022

Aims

This study aimed to perform molecular docking studies to identify possibilities of the inhibitory potential of the trigonelline present in fenugreek seeds on the human tyrosinase, standardize fenugreek extract, formulate, and characterize an emulgel‐containing fenugreek extract‐entrapped niosomal vesicles.

Materials and Methods

The docking study was performed using AutoDock software. The extract was standardized by the RP‐HPLC method. Emulgels containing fenugreek extract and fenugreek extract‐entrapped niosomes were optimized by the D‐optimal method. In vitro characterization and stability studies were also carried out.

Results

The lowest energy docked poses of trigonelline on the human tyrosinase complex was calculated −5.8 kcal/mol. Also, in vitro assessment of the tyrosinase inhibitory effect of trigonelline and comparison of IC50 values of trigonelline and kojic acid revealed that the enzyme inhibition efficacy of trigonelline was stronger than that of kojic acid. Optimization led to emulgels with desired viscosity, droplet size, and spreadability values. The release study showed that trigonelline was released from the niosomes at a lower rate compared with extract containing emulgel. Permeation investigations revealed that trigonelline in niosomes has a higher ability to permeate through the skin.

Conclusion

In conclusion, in silico and in vitro studies have shown that trigonelline can be assumed as an appropriate candidate for developing new cosmetic preparations and nonionic surfactant vesicles help trigonelline to permeate through the skin to a higher extent. However, clinical trials should be performed to confirm these findings.
Efficiency and safety of microneedling fractional radiofrequency in the treatment of Chinese atrophic acne scars: A retrospective study of 3 consecutive treatments with 1‐month intervals
Authors: Huang Linting , Liu Yang , Fang Wei , Liu Lanjun , Sun Qilin , Lin Xiaoxi , Xu Hui , Yang Yali
Published: October 2022

Background

Atrophic acne scars (AAS) impact the aesthetic appearance, inducing social and psychological problems. Effective and safe therapy for AAS is urgently needed now. Microneedling fractional radiofrequency (MFRF) has emerged as a minimal invasive alteration for treating AAS lately, while the existing data on Chinese population was few.

Aims

We aimed to explore the effectivity and safety of MFRF in Chinese patients with facial AAS and analyze the response of different subtypes to MFRF treatment.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective analysis using data from medical records and clinical photographs of 40 Chinese patients with AAS with Fitzpatrick skin type III‐IV, all of them had received 3 MFRF treatments with 1‐month intervals and were followed up 3 months after the last treatment. The clinical severity was assessed through échelle d'évaluation clinique des cicatrices d'acné (ECCA) score at each visit. Clinical photographs were taken by VISIA. Patients were asked to evaluate their satisfaction of the treatment using a 5‐point Likert scale at the last visit.

Results

ECCA score decreased more than a half at the last visit based on the baseline. Among the three types of AAS, the M‐shaped scars respond most quickly to MFRF and the U‐shaped scars improved the most after 3 months follow‐up. A significant improvement was seen in clinical appearance, parallel to the change of ECCA, indicating the remarkable improvement of AAS after the MFRF treatment. Concomitant active acne was controlled along with the improvement of AAS. Statistics from VISIA showed excellent improvement in pores and texture as well. Side effects including pain and erythema were transient and mild. The number of MFRF treatment sessions was positively associated with the degree of improvement. Of the total 39 patients who had given a score of satisfaction, more than 89% (35 patients) were very satisfied or satisfied with the outcome.

Conclusions

To sum up, our study reveals that MFRF provides high efficiency in treating Chinese AAS patients with high satisfaction and low risk of adverse effects. M‐shaped scars are the most sensitive type to the treatment, but the U‐shaped scars improve most at the last visit. The simultaneous minimization of pores and improvement of skin texture imply the increased collagen stimulated by MFRF. Regular MFRF should be considered a good choice in treating AAS.