bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Investigating the role of the state in regulating corporate social responsibility: Evidence from the Gulf Cooperation Council countries
Authors: El‐Said Osman Ahmed , Aziz Heba , Mirzaei Maryam , Smith Michael
Published: September 2023

The purpose of this research is to provide an overview of state governance for corporate social responsibility (CSR) in the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). A systemic literature review method is employed to collect 88 relevant publications, and a qualitative coding method is used to identify 98 governance instruments from those publications. These are grouped into 13 themes and then examined within three conceptual models. The findings reveal that most of the instruments are geared towards ethical expectations, internal and external social responsibility, raising awareness, and socio‐economic development. The findings are then explored within four theories. The results suggest that CSR governance in the GCC is at a moderate to high level of bureaucratization; reflects Islamic identity, national development targets, and business accountability; is between the stages of habitualization and objectification; and relies mostly on normative pressures. Recommendations for policymakers and company managers are then presented based on these findings.
Size and crown shape predict reproductive maturity of Carapa guianensis in upland and floodplain forests in the northeastern Amazon
Authors: Angulo Villacorta Carlos Darwin , Ribeiro Gomes Henrique Szymansky , Guedes Marcelino Carneiro , de Toledo José Julio
Published: September 2023

Comprehending the size distribution within a population and grasping its connection to tree maturation (onset of reproductive phase) is pivotal for formulating sustainable management strategies and conserving numerous tree species. The objective of this study was to compare the structure and probability of fruit production of Carapa guianensis in two types of forest (varzea, or floodplain, vs. terra firme, or upland) in the northeastern Amazon, Brazil. The study was conducted in four permanent plots of 300 × 300 m (two for each type of forest). All individuals ≥10 cm in diameter at breast height (DBH) were mapped and measured for DBH, height, and canopy characteristics (shape and position), and liana infestation. Sixty‐seven trees were inventoried in the upland forest and 297 in the floodplain forest. The trees were larger in the upland (33.36 ± 1.84 cm) than in the floodplain (21.92 ± 1.5 cm) and more than half (56%) of the upland trees and more than two thirds (67%) of floodplain trees were reproductive. The minimum diameter for fruit production in the floodplain (10.2 cm of DBH) was more than two times smaller than in the upland (25.5 cm of DBH). The probability of fruit production of a tree of the same size was twice as high in the floodplain compared with the upland, and trees with rounded canopies had a higher probability of fruit production in the upland. Our results showed that the probability of fruit production can be modeled with variables of tree size and canopy shape, and that intrinsic factors of the forests influence the reproductive maturity of C. guianensis which presents greater precocity and productive potential of seeds in the estuarine floodplain forest of the Amazon River.

Abstract in Portuguese is available with online material.
A study of deviant behaviour among China's left‐behind children: The impact of strain, social control and learning
Authors: Jin Xiaohong , Chen Wei , Wu Yuning
Published: September 2023

This study aims to examine the effects of strain, social control and learning variables on the likelihood of deviant behaviour among left‐behind children (thereafter LBC) and non‐left‐behind children (thereafter NLBC) in China. A cross‐sectional survey study was conducted among 380 LBC and 656 NLBC in elementary and middle schools in three cities of Hubei Province, China. Bivariate and multivariate binary logistic regression analyses were conducted to assess whether LBC and NLBC differ in deviant behaviour and three main groups of correlates of deviance that reflect strain, social control and learning. LBC were less likely than NLBC to commit deviant behaviour. LBC with greater family attachment and school bond were less likely to engage in deviance, whereas NLBC with more academic difficulty and bullying victimization were more inclined to conduct deviant acts. Having deviant peers increased both LBC's and NLBC's probability of committing deviant behaviour. A combination of factors related to strain, social control and learning theories explains Chinese children's deviance. It is important to promote the healthy development of LBC by enhancing family and school bonds and reducing deviant associations.
Recessive mutation on mouse chromosome 13 associated with abnormal hair texture and cardiomyopathy
Authors: Suto Jun‐ichi
Published: September 2023

An autosomal recessive mutation (aht) associated with abnormal hair texture and cardiomyopathy spontaneously arose in the Y‐chromosome consomic mouse strain DH‐Chr YSS. The aht/aht mouse phenotypes closely resembled those of rul/rul mice, which were caused by a mutation in desmoplakin (Dsp) on chromosome 13. Quantitative trait locus (QTL) mapping using (DDD/Sgn × DH‐Chr YSS‐aht heterozygotes) F2 mice demonstrated that aht is contiguous with Dsp on chromosome 13. However, no nucleotide changes were identified in the coding region of Dsp in aht/aht mice by whole‐exome sequencing. Therefore, the molecular nature of the aht mutation remains unclear. Nevertheless, aht/aht mice may serve as a new model for human diseases that are accompanied by abnormalities in the integumental and cardiovascular systems, including Carvajal‐Huerta syndrome.
Perioperative Antibiotikaprophylaxe in der Dermatochirurgie – Positionspapier der Arbeitsgruppe Antibiotic Stewardship der Deutschen Gesellschaft für Dermatochirurgie (DGDC), Teil 1: Eingriffs‐ und patientenbezogene Risikofaktoren
Authors: Löser Christoph R. , Becker Sören L. , Hartmann Daniela , Kofler Lukas , Kunte Christian , Müller Cornelia S. L. , Schlager Justin Gabriel , Balakirski Galina
Published: September 2023

Die perioperative Antibiotikaprophylaxe (PAP) hat das Ziel, postoperative Wundinfektionen und Infektionskomplikationen (insbesondere bakterielle Endokarditis oder septische Arthritis) bei chirurgischen Eingriffen zu vermeiden. Die PAP hat sich besonders bei Eingriffen bewährt, bei denen die Infektionsraten auch ohne Berücksichtigung der patientenbezogenen Risikofaktoren insgesamt hoch sind (wie für orthopädische Eingriffe oder die Versorgung von Frakturen). Auch Operationen mit Eröffnung der Atemwege, des Verdauungs‐, Genital‐ oder Harntrakts gelten als mit Infektionsrisiko behaftet und können eine PAP erfordern. In der Dermatochirurgie sind Infektionskomplikationen insgesamt verhältnismäßig selten und variieren in Abhängigkeit von der Lokalisation, Komplexität des Eingriffes und der Patientenkohorte zwischen 1% und 11%. Daher spiegeln die allgemeinchirurgischen Empfehlungen bezüglich der PAP die Bedürfnisse der Dermatochirurgie nur begrenzt wider. Im Gegensatz zu den USA, wo eine entsprechende Empfehlung vorliegt, existiert in Deutschland zurzeit keine speziell für dermatochirurgische Eingriffe konzipierte Leitlinie zur Anwendung von PAP. In Abwesenheit evidenzbasierter Empfehlungen wird die PAP durch die Erfahrung der einzelnen Operateure geprägt, was zu einer heterogenen Anwendung antimikrobieller Substanzen führt. In der vorliegenden Arbeit wird die aktuelle wissenschaftliche Literatur zu dem Thema zusammengefasst und die daraus resultierende Empfehlung zur Anwendung der PAP in Abhängigkeit von eingriffs‐ und patientenbezogenen Risikofaktoren formuliert.
The Real‐World Observational Prospective Study of Health Outcomes with Dulaglutide and Liraglutide in Type 2 Diabetes Patients (TROPHIES): Final patient‐reported outcomes at 24 months
Authors: Boye Kristina S. , Lebrec Jérémie , Dib Anne , Heitmann Elke , Federici Marco Orsini , Yu Maria , Sapin Hélène , Barrett Annabel , Guerci Bruno , Giorgino Francesco , Füchtenbusch Martin , García‐Pérez Luis‐Emilio
Published: September 2023

Aim

To report health‐related patient‐reported outcomes (PROs) in people with type 2 diabetes (T2D) initiating their first injectable glucose‐lowering medication (GLM) with two commonly prescribed glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs) from the prospective, observational TROPHIES study (The Real‐World Observational Prospective Study of Health Outcomes with Dulaglutide and Liraglutide in Type 2 Diabetes Patients).

Materials and Methods

TROPHIES was a two‐cohort, 24‐month study conducted in France, Germany and Italy. Adults with a T2D diagnosis, naïve to injectable treatment for T2D and prescribed dulaglutide or liraglutide as their first injectable GLM, were eligible for inclusion. Study objectives included describing the following PROs associated with the treatment of T2D with GLP‐1RAs: health‐related quality of life; impact of weight on self‐perception; life and work productivity; and patient satisfaction with treatment and injection device. Additional analyses formally compared PRO measures between the treatment cohorts.

Results

Overall, improvements from baseline in PRO scores were observed among people who started dulaglutide or liraglutide. A more pronounced trend of improvement was observed in the dulaglutide cohort for changes from baseline in treatment satisfaction and impact of weight on self‐perception, supported by statistically significant differences between treatment cohorts in additional comparative analyses at 12, 18 and 24 months. More positive patient perceptions of the injection device were observed with dulaglutide than with liraglutide.

Conclusions

Improvements in PROs observed in TROPHIES, which were more evident with dulaglutide than liraglutide, reflect a relevant clinical benefit. From the patients’ perspective, satisfaction, and confidence in continuing treatment with GLP‐1RAs is likely to contribute to long‐term treatment persistence.
Exploring the males' terminal investment strategy: Impact of the dose of stress and the time lapse between stress and mating
Authors: Cordero‐Molina Sagrario , Mendoza Laura , Alvarado Yesenia , Krams Indrikis , Contreras‐Garduño Jorge
Published: September 2023

In the terminal investment strategy, organisms allocate resources to maximize current reproduction when their future reproductive opportunities are uncertain due to a high risk of mortality. However, whether the role of time lapse between stress and reproductive investment (courtship vs. courtship and mating) triggers the terminal investment strategy remains unknown.

We examined this hypothesis in Tenebrio molitor using oxidative stress as the stressor. Given that this is the first time that oxidative stress is used to trigger terminal investment, we first conducted mate choice trials where males exposed to 5, 20, 40 or 80 mM of the pro‐oxidant, paraquat (PQ) engaged in courtship behaviour towards the females. Subsequently, we analysed the male mortality against each of these doses.

Males exposed to a 5 mM treatment exhibited higher survival rates compared with the control group, whereas males exposed to 80 mM experienced a shorter lifespan. After courtship, no significant differences in mortality were observed between the control group and those treated with 20 or 40 mM of PQ. Notably, only males exposed to 40 mM of PQ were preferred over the control group.

In a third experiment, we quantify the survival costs when males courted and mated at varying time intervals after oxidative stress (40 mM). When males were exposed to 40 mM of PQ and mated 3 h later, their mortality rates significantly decreased compared with males exposed to oxidative stress, courted and mated, but 24 h later.

We suggest that the interaction of the dose of oxidative stress and the time lapse between courtship and mating may explain opposed results to support either the terminal investment or honest signalling.
Long‐term haematological response and maintained immunological function after laparoscopic subtotal splenectomy in patients with hereditary spherocytosis
Authors: Münch Alica L. , Jacobsen Eva‐Maria , Schulz Ansgar , Loichinger Wolfgang , Wowra Tobias , Schiefele Lisa , Elsner Julia , Westhoff Mike‐Andrew , Serra Alexandre , Strauss Gabriele , Schaarschmidt Klaus , Cario Holger
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Subtotal or total splenectomy are recommended in severe and should be considered in intermediate forms of hereditary spherocytosis (HS). Data on laparoscopic subtotal splenectomy (LSTS) in HS patients are sparse.

Methods

Thirty three patients with HS (median age 10.7 years (yrs), range 1.8–15.5) underwent LSTS. Baseline and follow‐up investigation included haematological parameters, microscopic analysis of pitted erythrocytes (pitE), and B‐cell subpopulations assessed by flow cytometry. Results were compared to those of non‐splenectomised HS patients, HS patients after total splenectomy (TS), and healthy individuals.

Results

After LSTS, haemoglobin levels were normalised in all patients. During median long‐term follow‐up of 3.9 yrs (range 1.1–14.9), only four patients presented mild anaemia. Despite re‐growing of the remnant spleen none of the patients required a second surgical intervention. As compared to TS, PitE in LSTS patients were significantly lower and indicated normal to only moderately decreased spleen function. Relative but not absolute IgM memory B‐cell counts were reduced in both LSTS and TS patients.

Conclusions

LSTS is effective for the treatment of patients with HS. A small remnant spleen is sufficient to provide adequate phagocytic function and to induce a pool of IgM memory B‐cells.
Oxidation performance and limitations of additively manufactured SiC/Si─O─C composites at elevated temperatures
Authors: Ridley Mackenzie J. , Lance Michael J. , Aguirre Trevor G. , Cramer Corson L.
Published: September 2023

SiC preforms were infiltrated with polycarbosiloxane preceramic polymer to create low‐cost SiC—SixOyCz matrix composites for possible high temperature application. The effect of specimen annealing conditions on the steam and air oxidation resistance was analyzed. Air exposures from 900–1500°C showed stability of the SixOyCz matrix phase with moderate oxidation resistance. After 900°C exposures, oxidation of the composite is primarily limited to the matrix phase, and only at 1200 and 1500°C was SiC consumption visualized. Steam cycle exposures at 1200°C resulted in rapid linear oxidation of the composites with induced specimen swelling from volume expansion associated with internal oxidation. Specimens annealed in argon were found to be the most oxidation resistant due to increased matrix crystallinity and carbon retention. The results of this work were used to develop clear strategies for improving the high‐temperature properties of SiC—SixOyCz composites.
Contribution of non‐socioeconomic factors to healthy quality of life in socioeconomically deprived patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer: Measuring attributable fraction
Authors: An Zifen , Nie Jiaqi , Huang Yanfang , Fang Pei , Meng Xianmei , Cai Chunfeng , Yu Liping
Published: September 2023

Background

The quality of life of patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer is seriously impaired, and socioeconomic deprivation often has a serious impact on their quality of life. However, little is known about the relative contribution of non‐socioeconomic factors to the quality of life of patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer with socioeconomic deprivation.

Aim

This study aims to investigate the situation and predictors of quality of life of patients with socioeconomic deprivation and evaluate the independent effects of some non‐socioeconomic factors.

Design

A retrospective study based on cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Data were obtained from 1075 patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer who received family palliative treatment in the hospice ward of Zhongnan Hospital of Wuhan University from March 2010 to October 2020, including demographic and clinical questionnaires, Karnofsky Performance Status scale and Cancer Pain and Quality of Life Questionnaire of Chinese Cancer Patients.

Results

The quality of life of patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer with socioeconomic deprivation is impaired and is affected by gait, self‐care ability, abdominal distension, nutritional status, weight loss, constipation and posture. Improvement in six of these factors—gait, self‐care ability, abdominal distension, nutritional status, weight loss and posture—has an independent positive impact on the development of a healthy quality of life for patients.

Conclusions

Gait, self‐care ability, abdominal distension, nutritional status, weight loss and posture are important determinants of healthy quality of life in patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer with socioeconomic deprivation, and early identification and strength management of these non‐socioeconomic factors may neutralize the negative impact of socioeconomic factors on the quality of life.

Implications for Practice

This study provides new ideas and intervention entry points for global nurses in practice innovations to improve the quality of life of socioeconomically deprived patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer. It enables them to focus on the effectiveness of non‐socioeconomic factors in the development and implementation of targeted care plans for patients with advanced gastrointestinal cancer experiencing socioeconomic deprivation globally.

Reporting Method

This study was reported in strict compliance with the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guideline.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Stage 1 hypertension defined by the 2017 ACC/AHA blood pressure guideline and cardiometabolic multimorbidity in Chinese adults
Authors: Qin Xiaoru , Chen Chaolei , Wang Jiabin , Nie Zhiqiang , Ou Yanqiu , Jiang Xiaofei , Feng Yingqing
Published: September 2023

The association of blood pressure (BP) classification defined by the 2017 American College of Cardiology/American Heart Association (ACC/AHA) guideline with cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) remains unclear. The present study aimed to investigate this research gap in the Chinese adults. Cross‐sectional data were collected from a population‐based cohort conducted in Southern China. Participants were categorized as having normal BP, elevated BP, stage 1 hypertension, and stage 2 hypertension according to the 2017 ACC/AHA guideline. CMM was defined as having two or more of the following diseases: coronary heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. The relationship between the BP classifications and CMM was examined by multivariate logistic regression. A total of 95 649 participants (mean age: 54.3 ± 10.2 years, 60.7% were women) were enrolled in this study. Multivariable‐adjusted logistic regression models revealed that stage 1 hypertension (odds ratio [OR], 1.35; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.03–1.78) and stage 2 hypertension (OR, 3.53; 95% CI, 2.82–4.47) were significantly associated with a higher prevalence of CMM compared with normal BP. The association between stage 1 hypertension and CMM were profound in women (OR, 1.76; 95% CI, 1.17–2.67) and in the middle‐aged group (OR, 1.53; 95% CI, 1.02–2.35) compared with men and older individuals, respectively. Our study showed that among Chinese adults, stage 1 hypertension defined by the 2017 ACC/AHA guideline was already associated with higher odds of CMM compared with normal BP, particularly in women and middle‐aged participants. Managing stage 1 hypertension may be an important measure to prevent CMM in Chinese adults.
Modelling potential distribution of Tuta absoluta in China under climate change using CLIMEX and MaxEnt
Authors: Zhao Jinyu , Ma Li , Song Chengfei , Xue Zengsheng , Zheng Ruirui , Yan Xizhong , Hao Chi
Published: September 2023

The Tuta absoluta (Meyrick) (Lepidoptera: Gelechiidae) originated in South America and is a major pest of the economically critical solanaceous crops. It is devastating to tomatoes, attacking mainly the leaves, stems, flowers and fruits of tomato plants, and can cause up to 100% damage. T. absoluta invaded China in 2017 and expanded rapidly, severely impacting the tomato industry. To illustrate the detailed potential distribution of T. absoluta in China, we used CLIMEX and MaxEnt models to predict the potential distribution of this pest using historical and future climate data. CLIMEX predicts a wider potential distribution area for T. absoluta in China than MaxEnt, which suggests that most of China is suitable for its distribution, except for the Tarim Basin in southern Xinjiang, western Inner Mongolia and northwestern Gansu. Both models accurately predicted the known distribution of T. absoluta in the provinces of Yunnan and Guangxi, and the predictions by both models suggest the total distribution range of T. absoluta in China is to increase slightly with future changes in climate temperature. These predictions will help understand the influence of climate change on the potential distribution of T. absoluta in China and thus provide a theoretical foundation for developing early monitoring, quarantine and control strategies.
A paradigm shift in the prevention and diagnosis of oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Hirsch Jan‐Michaél , Sandy Ronak , Hasséus Bengt , Lindblad Joakim
Published: September 2023

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) is a widespread disease with only 50%–60% 5‐year survival. Individuals with potentially malignant precursor lesions are at high risk.

Methods

Survival could be increased by effective, affordable, and simple screening methods, along with a shift from incisional tissue biopsies to non‐invasive brush biopsies for cytology diagnosis, which are easy to perform in primary care. Along with the explainable, fast, and objective artificial intelligence characterisation of cells through deep learning, an easy‐to‐use, rapid, and cost‐effective methodology for finding high‐risk lesions is achievable. The collection of cytology samples offers the further opportunity of explorative genomic analysis.

Results

Our prospective multicentre study of patients with leukoplakia yields a vast number of oral keratinocytes. In addition to cytopathological analysis, whole‐slide imaging and the training of deep neural networks, samples are analysed according to a single‐cell RNA sequencing protocol, enabling mapping of the entire keratinocyte transcriptome. Mapping the changes in the genetic profile, based on mRNA expression, facilitates the identification of biomarkers that predict cancer transformation.

Conclusion

This position paper highlights non‐invasive methods for identifying patients with oral mucosal lesions at risk of malignant transformation. Reliable non‐invasive methods for screening at‐risk individuals bring the early diagnosis of OSCC within reach. The use of biomarkers to decide on a targeted therapy is most likely to improve the outcome. With the large‐scale collection of samples following patients over time, combined with genomic analysis and modern machine‐learning‐based approaches for finding patterns in data, this path holds great promise.
Long non‐coding RNA X‐Inactive Specific Transcript (XIST) interacting with USF2 promotes osteogenic differentiation of periodontal ligament stem cells through regulation of WDR72 transcription
Authors: Xu Ke , Li Ya‐dong , Ren Liu‐yang , Song Hai‐long , Yang Qiao‐yun , Xu Dong‐liang
Published: September 2023

Background

Periodontal ligament stem cells (PDLSCs) are the most potential cells in periodontal tissue regeneration and bone tissue regeneration. Our prior work had revealed that WD repeat‐containing protein 72 (WDR72) was crucial for osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs. Here, we further elucidated its underlying mechanism in PDLSC osteogenic differentiation.

Methods

Human PDLSCs, isolated and identified by flow cytometry, were prepared for osteogenic differentiation induction. Levels of WDR72, long non‐coding RNA X‐Inactive Specific Transcript (XIST), upstream stimulatory factor 2 (USF2), and osteogenic marker genes (Runx2, Osteocalcin, and Collagen I) in human PDLSCs and clinical specimens were detected by RT‐qPCR. Protein expressions of WDR72, Runx2, Osteocalcin, and Colla1 were tested by Western blot. The interactions among the molecules were verified by RIP, RNA pull‐down, ChIP, and luciferase reporter assays. Osteogenic differentiation was evaluated by alkaline phosphatase (ALP) and alizarin red staining (ARS).

Results

WDR72 was decreased in periodontal tissues of periodontitis patients, and overexpression reversed TNF‐α‐mediated suppressive effects on PDLSC osteogenic differentiation. Mechanically, XIST recruited the enrichment of USF2 to the WDR72 promoter region, thereby positively regulating WDR72. WDR72 silencing overturned XIST‐mediated biological effects in PDLSCs.

Conclusion

WDR72, regulated by the XIST/USF2 axis, enhances osteogenic differentiation of PDLSCs, implying a novel strategy for alleviating periodontitis.
Assessing spatial patterns and density of a dolphin population through signature whistles
Authors: Romeu Bianca , Daura‐Jorge Fábio G. , Hammond Philip S. , Castilho Pedro V. , Simões‐Lopes Paulo C.
Published: September 2023

Some dolphin species produce signature whistles, which may allow the identification of individual dolphins using passive acoustic monitoring (PAM). Identifying individuals by their sounds may enhance the opportunities for monitoring and addressing biological and ecological questions about these species. Here, we explored the potential of signature whistles to investigate ecological aspects of a resident bottlenose dolphin population. Using a limited data set, with few individuals recognized by signature whistles, combined with spatial capture‐recapture (SCR) methods, we investigated how effective such approach is describing spatial use patterns and estimating density for this population. The data were collected using 4–6 stationary bottom‐moored recorders. Since only eight signature whistles were identified, our density estimate may represent a subset of the entire population. However, even with only a few signature whistles identified, our results confirmed the center of the core area used by these dolphins as the area with the highest encounter probability. In addition, our results provided evidence that these dolphins have the same spatial use pattern at night as during the day. This study shows that SCR analysis of signature whistle data can improve our ecological knowledge and understanding of dolphin populations.
Food healthiness judgements among Brazilian and German lay adults
Authors: Moraes Jessica Maria Muniz , Sproesser Gudrun , Alvarenga Marle dos Santos
Published: September 2023

This study investigated which foods are most saliently judged as healthy and unhealthy in Brazil and Germany and the reasons for these judgements. Dietary guidelines in the two countries differ in that those in Brazil are based on a food processing classification rather than nutrient profiling, whereas dietary guidelines in Germany do not include the processing level of food. In an online study with 355 lay adults (Brazil n = 205, Germany n = 150), we explored which foods are listed as healthy and unhealthy using a free‐listing method. The main reasons for these healthiness judgements were then identified with a one or two‐word phrase and compared between countries. Saliency analysis was conducted to identify the 15 most salient healthy and unhealthy foods in each country. Principles of content analysis were used to assess the reasons why these 15 items were listed as most salient by the participants. Results showed that both Brazilians and Germans listed mostly natural or minimally processed food (e.g. fruits, vegetables, grains, fish and milk) as healthy, whereas types of convenience and fast food, sweets and other ultra‐processed foods (e.g. chocolate, soda, French fries, pizza and hamburger) were the most salient unhealthy items listed in both countries. Differences in culturally relevant items listed in each country are discussed. Further, in both countries, despite differences in their dietary guidelines, food healthiness judgements for the most salient items listed relied heavily on the nutritional content of food, reinforced the ‘good/healthy’ and ‘bad/unhealthy’ dichotomy, and were centred on benefits or harms to the body (e.g. prevention or cause of diseases and weight control). The similarity of food healthiness judgements between the two countries, together with their agreement with conventional health claims and dietary guidelines, suggest that lay Brazilian and German adults are knowledgeable about the general concepts of ‘healthy’ and ‘unhealthy’ food. Finally, these findings suggest that rather than just providing more nutritional information, policymakers and health professionals need to take into account the multiple psychosocial and environmental determinants of eating in these countries.
A Novel Semi‐Cannulated Screw Enhanced Bone Cement Augmentation and Pullout Strength in Posterior Cervical Lateral Mass Screw Fixations: An In Vitro Biomechanical and Morphological Study
Authors: Canyang Huang , Weidong Chen , Zhiping Huang , Xiuhua Wu , Minghui Zheng , Haihong Huang , Qingan Zhu , Dongbin Qu
Published: September 2023

Objective

To develop a novel semi‐cannulated lateral mass screw (SC‐LMS) for cervical posterior fixations and compare the fixation stability and safety of SC‐LMS with regular solid lateral mass screw (S‐LMS) in bone cement augmentation and pullout strength using fresh cadaveric cervical vertebrae.

Methods

The conventional multiaxial screw for cervical lateral mass fixation was modified to a cannulated screw with two lateral holes, used for bone cement injection in situ. Eight fresh human cervical vertebrae (C3, C4, and C5) were collected and used. μCT scan was performed to evaluate the bone quality of the lateral masses, including bone mineral density (BMD), trabecular thickness (Tb.Th), and trabecular separation (Tb.Sp). SCLMS or S‐LMS were randomly inserted into the paired cervical vertebrae and pulled out as a screw loosening model. These screws were reinserted in with bone cement augmentation, scanned by μCT to obtain the bone cement distribution along the screws, and pulled out to test the screw purchase strength.

Results

Fmax values exhibited strong positive correlations with the local BMD (𝑟 = 0.8640, p < 0.0001) and Tb.Th (𝑟 = 0.6795, p = 0.0038), whereas a negative correlation with Tb.Sp (𝑟 = −0.5567, p = 0.0251). A significant difference was observed between the Fmax before and after PMMA injection on the SC‐LMS side (p = 0.019). The SC‐LMS exhibited lower risk of cement leakage than S‐LMS after PMMA injection, and a positive correlation was observed between 𝐹max and the distribution volumes on the SC‐LMS side.

Conclusion

The novel SC‐LMS provides more robust fixation stability and is safer than the S‐LMS for PMMA augmentation, which may be related to the cement‐screw‐cement‐bone complex formation.
Levodopa‐Carbidopa Intestinal Gel Injection for Patient with Severe Parkinson's Disease Followed by Total Hip Arthroplasty: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Imamura Atsushi , Kuroyanagi Gen , Usami Takuya , Sato Toyohiro , Horiba Mitsuya , Sakai Hiroaki , Takahashi Ayaka , Ueki Yoshino , Matsukawa Noriyuki , Murakami Hideki
Published: September 2023

Background

Patients with Parkinson's disease have a high dislocation rate after total hip arthroplasty (THA). This study describes a case with severe Parkinson's disease who developed rapidly destructive coxarthrosis (RDC) and underwent THA using a dual mobility cup after a levodopa‐carbidopa intestinal gel (LCIG) infusion.

Case presentation

The patient is a 59‐year‐old female with a ten‐year history of Parkinson's disease, which was first treated with oral levodopa. The patient developed RDC of the right hip joint. However, THA was difficult owing to Parkinson's disease and its treatment side effects, such as wearing‐off, dyskinesia, and freezing of the gait, Thus, LCIG was initiated, and improvement in wearing‐off and dyskinesia was observed. Two months after the LCIG therapy, the disease was controlled well. THA was subsequently performed using a dual mobility cup to prevent postoperative dislocation. Postoperatively, LCIG therapy was continuously administered to carefully manage the disease, which was controlled well with no increase in wearing‐off and dyskinesia after surgery. At 1 year after surgery, the walking speed, stride length, and the Harris hip score improved compared to preoperatively. The UPDRS III motor score improved to eight without signs of wearing‐off or dyskinesia. The Hoehn‐Yahr scale was II in the “on” period and remained unchanged 1 year after surgery. The patient could walk without a cane and had satisfactory functional outcomes.

Conclusion

This case proved that LCIG treatment performed preoperatively, followed by THA using a dual mobility cup, and strict management of Parkinson's disease could result in a satisfactory clinical course without recurrence of wearing‐off and dyskinesia. Similar procedures may benefit other patients with Parkinson's disease who have previously been deemed unsuitable for THA.
Outcomes for Adaptive Mentalization Based Integrative Treatment informed care for adolescents using a deployment‐based approach
Authors: Fuggle Peter , Fairbairn James , Fonagy Peter
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Adolescent mentalisation‐based integrative therapy (AMBIT) is a whole‐systems approach designed to enhance the effectiveness and coordination of care for clients experiencing severe and pervasive difficulties in social and health care settings, who have not responded to traditional clinical approaches. AMBIT is a team‐based manualised method that primarily aims to bolster mental state understanding and discourse focused on the client within and between teams. Over 300 teams worldwide have been trained in and adhere to AMBIT principles.

Method

In this paper, we review and summarise the outcomes reported by eight AMBIT‐informed teams that have published their findings with young people. Each report is discussed, and limitations of the data provided are identified.

Results

A synthesis of the findings across the studies suggests a generally positive impact of teams informed by AMBIT with moderate to large effect sizes on reducing symptoms and improving functionality.

Conclusions

This study suggests that AMBIT may be a promising approach for young people with multiple problems but further research is needed to identify the active mechanisms of change in complex helping systems.
Spatial aggregation patterns in four mistletoe species: ecological and environmental determinants
Authors: Ojeda S. , Arancibia M. , Gómez F. , Sepúlveda I. B. , Orellana J. I. , Fontúrbel F. E.
Published: September 2023

Plant spatial distribution is an important topic in ecology as it determines species coexistence and biodiversity dynamics. Usually, plants show clustered distributions in nature. Mistletoes are a good example of aggregated distributions, as they form dense aggregations due to several factors (availability of competent hosts, seed dispersal vectors, microclimate conditions).

We analysed four native mistletoe species with divergent life histories and host ranges: Desmaria mutabilis and Tristerix corymbosus from the temperate rainforests of southern Chile; and Tristerix aphyllus and Tristerix verticillatus from the northern semi‐desert zone. While T. corymbosus and T. verticillatus have a wide host range, T. aphyllus and D. mutabilis are specialists that can parasitize only a few plant species. We hypothesized that specialized species would be more aggregated due to ecological and environmental restrictions. We used heterogeneous Poisson models to quantify spatial aggregation.

Three of the four mistletoe species were spatially clustered at both environments, with aggregation being stronger in the temperate rainforest of southern Chile and particularly in the host‐specialist species. Our results suggest that environmental constraints are more important than ecological constraints (host range) in shaping mistletoe spatial structure.

Mistletoe aggregated spatial distribution depends primarily on the environment that they inhabit, which conditions host spatial availability, and arrangement.
Identification and adaptive evolution analysis of glutaredoxin genes in Populus spp.
Authors: Wang S. , Dong Y. , Gu L. , Chen X. , Zhang C. , Long L. , Wang J. , Yang M.
Published: September 2023

Glutaredoxin (GRX) is a class of small redox proteins widely involved in cellular redox homeostasis and the regulation of various cellular processes. The role of GRX gene in the differentiation of Populus spp. is rarely reported.

We compared the similarities and differences of GRX genes among four sections of poplar using bioinformatics, corrected the annotations of some GRX genes, and focused on analysing their transcript profiling and adaptive evolution in Populus spp.

A total of 219 GRX genes were identified in four sections of poplar, among which annotations for 13 genes were corrected. Differences in GRX genes were found between sect. Turanga, represented by P. euphratica, and other poplar sections. Most notably, P. euphratica had the smallest number of duplication events for GRX genes (n = 9) and no tandem duplications, whereas there were >25 duplication events for all other poplars. Furthermore, we detected 18 pairs of GRX genes under positive selection pressure in various sections of poplar, and identified two groups of GRX genes in the Salicaceae that potentially underwent positive selection. Expression profiling results showed that the PtrGRX34 and its orthologous genes were upregulated under stress treatments.

In summary, the GRX gene family underwent expansion during poplar differentiation, and some genes underwent rapid evolution during this process, which may be beneficial for Populus spp. to adapt to environmental changes. This study may provide more insights into the molecular mechanisms of Populus spp. adaptation to environmental changes and the adaptive evolution of GRX genes.
Asthma in developing countries in the Asia‐Pacific Region (APR)
Authors: Yasaratne Duminda , Idrose N. Sabrina , Dharmage Shyamali C.
Published: September 2023

There is growing interest in the epidemiology of asthma in developing countries, especially in the Asia‐Pacific Region (APR). A number of reviews have been published in this field, but a comprehensive synthesis of overall data has not been reported. Here, we summarized the burden, risk factors and challenges of asthma management in developing countries with a specific emphasis on the APR by consolidating evidence from both systematic and narrative reviews published up until February 2023. We found that although asthma prevalence in low and low‐middle‐income countries (LMICs) is known to be generally lower compared to high‐income countries, the burden is substantially greater. Studies conducted in APR LMIC have reported a range of risk factors, including pre‐ and post‐natal factors, environmental considerations, lifestyle measures, individual features and genetics. The low and inequitable distribution of quality preventive and curative health care, a lack of advanced diagnostic measures, non‐availability and non‐affordability of novel therapeutics, cultural beliefs and practices, and diverse disease phenotypes make it challenging to achieve optimal asthma control in the region. Hence, we call for the development of a region‐specific blueprint for action to mitigate this challenging situation, to help reduce the burden of asthma in APR LMIC.
Oral hygiene practice and home‐care challenges in children with autism spectrum disorder in San Francisco: Cross‐sectional study
Authors: Nagda Rahul , Le Thuan , Lin Brent , Tanbonliong Thomas
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is characterized by challenges in social interaction, communication, and stereotypical patterns of behavior. They are more likely to have tooth brushing issues and need help with routine dental care. Children with ASD could face difficulty in accessing dental care as the parents have a challenging task in finding a dentist that would treat the child with special needs. As a result, dental care is often neglected. The aims of this study are to evaluate oral hygiene practices and challenges in children with ASD and compare it with typically developing peers (TDP).

Method

The sample size of the study was 60. Parents of children aged 3–10 were recruited and divided in 2 groups with 30 in each group. Age and gender of children were matched. ASD group included children with medical diagnosis of ASD only and no other co‐morbidities. Children in TDP group had no diagnosis of ASD, and reported no disability, or any other diagnosis. Parents were asked to complete the questionnaire which asked about their demographic information, child's oral care regimens, and their knowledge about dental care. Chi‐squared tests and t‐test were used for statistical analysis. A p‐value of .05 was used for determining statistical significance.

Results

Many children with ASD (47%) had to travel more than 20 miles for their dental home compared to 13% with TDP (p < .05). Only 60% of children with ASD brushed twice a day with 70% of parents reporting that it is difficult to brush their child's teeth compared to TDP with 93% of children brush twice daily (p < .05). Significantly a smaller number of children with ASD (47%) allowed their parent to brush their teeth as compared to 93% of TSD children (p < .001).

Conclusion

Parents of children with autism spectrum disorder travel longer distance to find a dental home and face more difficulty in maintaining their child's daily oral hygiene.
The relationship between self‐deception and other‐deception
Authors: Wehofsits Anna
Published: September 2023

Unlike the question of whether self‐deception can be understood on the model of other‐deception, the relationship between the two phenomena at the level of practice is hardly ever explored. Other‐deception can support self‐deception and vice versa. Self‐deception often affects not only the beliefs and behavior of the self‐deceiving person but also the beliefs and behavior of others who may become accomplices of self‐deception. As I will show, however, it is difficult to describe this supportive relationship between self‐deception and the deception of others without conceptual contradiction. While “deflationary” approaches offer a convincing way to avoid the so‐called paradoxes of self‐deception, they do not resolve the conceptual tensions that arise here. I conclude by outlining a solution.
Glued on for the grandkids: The gendered politics of care in the global environmental movement
Authors: Gardner Peter , Williams Susannah , Macdonald Andrew
Published: September 2023

This paper explores the gendered politics of care in global environmental activism. Drawing on interviews with 96 Extinction Rebellion activists worldwide and a close analysis of 10 older women within this dataset, we contend that ‘care’ both replicated and contradicted the patriarchal order. Older women in Extinction Rebellion have often been relied upon to take on much of the caring labour involved in the maintenance of the movement at local and national levels. However, care also involved these women undertaking powerful—and empowering—forms of political action, often grounded in their knowledge and experience of organising social justice movements over decades. In contrast to prior research in the area, we found that women's participation in leadership roles within the movement against climate change appears to have increased over time. Using Sara Ahmed's (2004) concept of affective economies, we argue that the emotion of care came to be accumulated and attached to older women within Extinction Rebellion, producing inequalities in expectations for who would ‘care for the movement’ while also opening up opportunities for empowerment.
An Exploration of Positive Stereotypes: Legitimating the System and Naïve Challenges to It
Authors: Davis‐Delano Laurel R. , Morgan Elizabeth M. , Merolla David M. , James Drexler , Hoang Tuyet Mai Ha
Published: September 2023

Scholars have documented harm associated with positive stereotypes about groups that experience inequality. We surveyed five samples from the United States to explore antecedents to dominant group endorsement of positive stereotypes about women, gay men, Asian Americans, Black Americans, and Native Americans. We found more liberal participants, and those with more close contact with members of these groups, were more internally motivated to respond without prejudice, which was then associated with greater endorsement of positive stereotypes about women, gay men, Black Americans, and Native Americans. In contrast, more conservative participants were more likely to believe in system legitimacy, which was then associated with greater endorsement of positive stereotypes about women and Asian Americans. We theorize that positive stereotypes are used by dominant group members in divergent ways, sometimes to legitimate inequality and other times with concern about inequality. The latter likely involves naivety regarding the harmful nature of positive stereotypes.
Do gender and educational level predict vaccination? The mediating role of attitudes towards vaccines and fear of COVID‐19
Authors: Espejo Begoña , Checa Irene
Published: September 2023

Given that the relationship between educational level, gender, and the fact of getting vaccinated does not seem to be clear, the aim of this research has been to verify if the beliefs towards vaccines and the fear of COVID‐19 are mediating this relationship in a general Spanish sample of 761 participants. A logistic regression with latent variables was estimated using Mplus. The results showed that there is no direct effect of gender or educational level on vaccination but both, fear of COVID‐19 and attitudes towards vaccines, act as mediators. Specifically, people with university studies show higher scores in trust of vaccine benefits, which in turn is a good predictor of getting vaccinated or not. So that having university studies and confidence in vaccines better predict getting vaccinated. Furthermore, being a woman with high levels of fear of COVID‐19, as well as having up to higher education and showing high levels of fear of COVID‐19, better predict getting vaccinated. However, this is a non‐probabilistic sample, and similar studies should be carried out with a representative sample of the Spanish population and of another countries, in which the rate of people vaccinated against other viruses is declining. This study reports the importance of a model including mediating variables when analyzing the influence of sociodemographic variables on deciding to get vaccinated or not, because this kind of model allow the detection of specific groups with low probability of vaccination, which would allow the design of specific strategies.