bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of an abdominal binder on the development of incisional hernia in the long term: A prospective cohort study
Authors: Arici Parlak Emine , Iyigun Emine , Tastan Sevinc , Can Mehmet Fatih
Published: May 2023

Objectives

The effects of using an abdominal binder after abdominal surgery on the development of incisional hernias in the long term are far from certain. This study aims to analyse the effects of abdominal binder use on the development of incisional hernia in the long term.

Methods

The population of this prospective cohort study included 84 patients, who underwent abdominal surgery and were evaluated for the effects of abdominal binder use between September 2013 and April 2014. The study sample comprised 57 patients (30 used an abdominal binder and 27 did not use one), who took part in the first research and agreed to participate. We conducted a telephone survey with the participants in September 2017 and asked them to answer the questions on the symptoms of and the risk factors associated with incisional hernia.

Results

Comparison of the two groups in terms of patient, surgical and treatment characteristics revealed no statistically significant difference (P > .05). Incisional hernia occurred in eight patients who used an abdominal binder and in five patients who did not use one. There was no statistically significant relationship between abdominal binder use and the development of incisional hernia 3 years after the abdominal surgery (P > .05).

Conclusions

This study found that abdominal binder use after abdominal surgery had no effects on the development of incisional hernia in the long term. Data on abdominal binder use were self‐reported by the patients. Better designed cohort studies on larger populations may be conducted in the future.
Effects of different drying methods on the properties, stability, and controlled release of Cornus officinalis flavonoids microparticles
Authors: Zhao Mengyue , Li Linlin , Cao Weiwei , Wang Zhe , Chu Qianqian , Bhandari Bhesh , Ren Guangyue , Duan Xu
Published: May 2023

To improve the stability and solubility of Cornus officinalis flavonoid (COF), spray drying (SD), freeze‐drying (FD), and microwave freeze drying (MFD) were used to encapsulate COF using whey isolate protein (WPI) and gum arabic as wall materials. The characterization of COF microparticles was performed with encapsulation efficiency (EE), particle size, morphology, antioxidant activity, structure, thermal stability, color, stability during storage, and in vitro solubility. The results showed that COF was successfully encapsulated in the wall material with an EE between 78.86% and 91.11%. The freeze‐dried microparticles had the highest EE (91.11%) and the lowest particle size (12.42 ± 16.73 µm). However, the particle size of COF microparticles of SD and MFD was relatively large. The 1,1‐diphenyl‐2‐picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) scavenging capacity of the microparticles obtained from SD (89.36 mg Vc/g) was higher than that of MFD (85.67 mg Vc/g), but the drying time and energy consumption of microparticles dried by SD and MFD were lower than those of FD. Furthermore, the spray‐dried COF microparticles had higher stability compared to FD and MFD when stored at 4°C for 30 days. In addition, the dissolution of COF microparticles prepared by SD and MFD was 55.64% and 57.35%, respectively, in simulated intestinal fluids, which was lower than that of FD (64.47%). Therefore, the application of microencapsulation technology showed significant advantages in improving the stability and solubility of COF, and the SD can be used for the preparation of microparticles considering energy cost and quality.

Practical Application

COF is an important bioactive ingredient, but its poor stability and water solubility decreases its pharmacological value. COF microparticles can improve the stability of COF, enhance the slow‐release effect, and expand its application in the food field. The drying method will affect the properties of COF microparticles. Thus, the structures and properties analysis of COF microparticles by different drying methods can provide a reference basis for the preparation and application of COF microparticles.
Abnormal activation of NF‐κB and MAPK signaling pathways affect osimertinib resistance and influence the recruitment of myeloid‐derived suppressor cells to shape the immunosuppressive tumor immune microenvironment
Authors: Wang Chao , Fei Kailun , Liu Lihui , Duan Jianchun , Wang Zhijie , Li Sini , Xu Jiachen , Zhang Xue , Tian Yanhua , Qu Yan , Bai Hua , Wang Jie
Published: May 2023

Background

Osimertinib is the first‐line treatment for patients with epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) mutations, but the treatment options after drug resistance are limited. Previous studies have suggested that EGFR is in an immunosuppressive tumor immune microenvironment (TIME). However, the evolution of TIME after osimertinib resistance and whether this resistance can be overcome by targeting TIME needs to be further investigated.

Methods

The remodeling process and mechanism of TIME during the treatment with osimertinib were studied.

Results

The proportion of EGFRL858R+T790M mutant tumor immune infiltrating cells was extremely low. Osimertinib treatment transiently triggered inflammatory cells, but several immunosuppressive cells infiltrated after drug resistance and formed a myeloid‐derived suppressor cell (MDSC)‐enriched TIME. The programmed cell death protein‐1 monoclonal antibody was not able to reverse the MDSC‐enriched TIME. Further analysis revealed that the activation of nuclear factor‐kappa B (NF‐κB) and mitogen‐activated protein kinase (MAPK) pathways recruited a large number of MDSCs via cytokines. Finally, MDSC secreted high levels of interleukin‐10 and arginase‐1 and created an immunosuppressive TIME.

Conclusions

Thus, our findings lay the foundation for the evolution of TIME in osimertinib treatment, establish the mechanism of immunosuppressive TIME after osimertinib resistance, and propose potential solutions.
Comparison between local and three validated triage systems in an emergency department for 2126 children under 3 months
Authors: Mollet Agathe , Rousselet Louis , Tristram Domitille , Kalach Nicolas , Pelzer Marie Moukagni , Charkaluk Marie‐Laure , Delebarre Mathilde
Published: May 2023

Aim

Triage of patients less than 3 months old was not already studied. The aim was to evaluate Paediatric Emergency Department triage in patients less than 3 months old and newborns using a local system in comparison with three validated paediatric triage systems (Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale, Manchester Triage System and Emergency Severity Index) and to determine inter‐system agreement.

Methods

All admissions of patients less than 3 months old admitted to the Emergency Department of the Saint Vincent University Hospital between April 2018 and December 2019 were included. The local triage system level was determined prospectively for comparison with retrospectively calculated triage levels of the validated systems. Hospitalisation rates were compared and inter‐system agreements determined.

Results

Among emergency admissions, 2126 were included (55% males, mean age 45 days). Hospitalisation rate increased with priority severity as determined by all triage systems studied. Cohen's kappa showed slight agreement between the local triage system and the Canadian Triage and Acuity Scale, Emergency Severity Index and Manchester Triage System (weighted kappa = 0.133, 0.185 and 0.157 respectively).

Conclusion

Whether prospective or retrospective triage used, the systems studied exhibited good association with hospitalisation rate for patients aged less than 3 months and newborn infants.
Cooperatives and sustainability drivers in the Spanish wine sector. What differences do we find with investor owner firms?
Authors: Ferrer Juan Ramón , García‐Cortijo María‐Carmen , Castillo Valero Juan‐Sebastián , Pinilla Vicente , Serrano Raúl
Published: May 2023

The fight against climate change has become a basic vector for agri‐food business strategies. In Spain, commercial wineries (Investor Owner Firms, IOFs) and cooperatives are facing major challenges in adapting to the most stringent environmental requirements and in becoming sustainable and environmentally responsible companies. The European winemaking model, unlike its “new world” competitors, has a very distinct configuration with the predominance of the social economy in parallel with capitalist enterprises. However, these two forms of business organization are different in terms of objectives, position in the value chain, type of organization and form of management. The purpose of this paper is to determine whether these two types of companies have a different orientation towards sustainability, and which are the drivers that facilitate a greater approach to sustainability in each group. With a sample of 411 wineries, the results of the study show a lower orientation towards sustainability among the cooperatives, without a relevant alignment of their resources towards this objective. However, IOFs orient their resources towards sustainability in a consistent and strategic way. This may infer that the European model, with a clear advantage in the social component, could be somewhat more limited in the environmental aspect.
Modelling ASthma TrEatment Responses (MASTER): Effect of individual patient characteristics on the risk of exacerbation in moderate or severe asthma: A time‐to‐event analysis of randomized clinical trials
Authors: Oosterholt Sean , Pavord Ian D. , Brusselle Guy , Yorgancıoğlu Arzu , Pitrez Paulo M. , PG Abhijith , Teli Chirag , Della Pasqua Oscar
Published: May 2023

Aims

There is limited understanding of how clinical and demographic characteristics are associated with exacerbation risk in patients with moderate‐to‐severe asthma, and how these factors correlate with symptom control and treatment response. Here we assess the relationship between baseline characteristics and exacerbation risk during regular dosing with inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) monotherapy or in combination with long‐acting beta2‐agonists (ICS/LABA) in clinical trial patients with varying levels of symptom control, as assessed by the asthma control questionnaire (ACQ‐5).

Methods

A time‐to‐event model was developed using pooled patient data (N = 16 282) from nine clinical studies [Correction added on 26 July 2023, after first online publication: The N value in the preceding sentence has been corrected in this version.]. A parametric hazard function was used to describe the time‐to‐first exacerbation. Covariate analysis included the assessment of the effect of seasonal variation, clinical and demographic baseline characteristics on baseline hazard. Predictive performance was evaluated by standard graphical and statistical methods.

Results

An exponential hazard model best described the time‐to‐first exacerbation in moderate‐to‐severe asthma patients. Body mass index, smoking status, sex, ACQ‐5, % predicted forced expiratory volume over 1 s (FEV1p) and season were identified as statistically significant covariates affecting baseline hazard irrespective of ICS or ICS/LABA use. Fluticasone propionate/salmeterol (FP/SAL) combination therapy resulted in a significant reduction in the baseline hazard (30.8%) relative to FP monotherapy.

Conclusions

Interindividual differences at baseline and seasonal variation affect the exacerbation risk independently from drug treatment. Moreover, it appears that even when a comparable level of symptom control is achieved in a group of patients, each individual may have a different exacerbation risk, depending on their baseline characteristics and time of the year. These findings highlight the importance of personalized interventions in moderate‐to‐severe asthma patients.
Correcting for Bias Due to Mismeasured Exposure History in Longitudinal Studies with Continuous Outcomes
Authors: Cai Jiachen , Zhang Ning , Zhou Xin , Spiegelman Donna , Wang Molin
Published: May 2023

Epidemiologists are often interested in estimating the effect of functions of time-varying exposure histories in relation to continuous outcomes, for example, cognitive function. However, the individual exposure measurements that constitute the history upon which an exposure history function is constructed are usually mismeasured. To obtain unbiased estimates of the effects for mismeasured functions in longitudinal studies, a method incorporating main and validation studies was developed. Simulation studies under several realistic assumptions were conducted to assess its performance compared to standard analysis, and we found that the proposed method has good performance in terms of finite sample bias reduction and nominal confidence interval coverage. We applied it to a study of long-term exposure to , in relation to cognitive decline in the Nurses' Health Study Previously, it was found that the 2-year decline in the standard measure of cognition was 0.018 (95% CI, −0.034 to −0.001) units worse per 10 increase in exposure. After correction, the estimated impact of on cognitive decline increased to 0.027 (95% CI, −0.059 to 0.005) units lower per 10 increase. To put this into perspective, effects of this magnitude are about 2/3 of those found in our data associated with each additional year of aging: 0.044 (95% CI, −0.047 to −0.040) units per 1 year older after applying our correction method.
Footwall geomorphology during necking domain evolution: A new model for the Frøya High, mid‐Norwegian rifted margin
Authors: Gresseth Julie Linnéa Sehested , Osmundsen Per Terje , Péron‐Pinvidic Gwenn
Published: May 2023

Observations and modelling results from highly extended regions indicate that detachment fault systems recording displacements of 10 km or more become associated with footwall uplift and back‐rotation. This is commonly explained by the rolling hinge model, which predicts detachment fault back‐rotation and severe dip reduction (<20°) controlled by the amount of extension. Although detachment faults within necking domains at rifted margins often record displacements in orders consistent with those for the rolling hinge model, it is rarely invoked to explain the associated footwall configurations. Our study area encircles the necking domain of the mid‐Norwegian rifted margin, where the Middle Jurassic–Early Cretaceous Klakk Fault Complex (KFC) directly separates the Frøya High from the Rås Basin. The Frøya High represents the eroded footwall of the KFC detachment fault system which records displacements of 20–40 km. Seismic mapping and well correlation across the Frøya High reveal how three erosional unconformities correspond to three laterally extensive top basement segments which follow the strike of the sinuous KFC. The segments differ in terms of dip, basement geomorphology and the composition and age of the sediments that rest unconformably on the top of basement. We attribute the associated cross‐cutting basement unconformities across the Frøya High to footwall uplift and back‐rotation during fluctuating relative sea‐level and repeated subaerial exposure during Middle Jurassic–Early Cretaceous times. We herein introduce a revised tectono‐sedimentary model for the evolution of the Frøya High, with significant implications for sediment (re‐)routing across the high during rifting. The model indicates that spatio‐temporal sediment distribution was ultimately controlled by the process of necking and evolution of the KFC. Our findings indicate a rolling hinge‐type evolution for the KFC and further suggest that the associated mechanisms may be more common in the necking domains of rifted margins than previously assumed.
L'étude des milieux de vie et de leurs populations : les chantiers d'une géographie historique environnementale au Québec
Authors: Castonguay Stéphane
Published: May 2023

L'histoire environnementale contribue à la géographie historique au Québec par l'attention qu'elle porte aux dimensions spatiales et matérielles des rapports entre la société et l'environnement. Cette contribution que peut caractériser l'appellation de «géographie historique environnementale » se remarque par une série de travaux qui enrichissent notre compréhension des rapports entre les populations et les milieux de vie forestiers, ruraux, et urbains. La mise à contribution d'outils numériques, comme les systèmes d'informations géohistoriques, et de sources numérisées, comme les cartes historiques et les archives d'arpentage, permet de refondre les modes d'appréhension des rapports aux territoires de pans mouvants de la société québécoise et d'offrir une réinterprétation géographique et écologique de problèmes historiques. En repensant conjointement le passé et l'espace à partir de nouvelles questions, méthodes et théories, ainsi que de sources récemment révélées ou remises en disponibilité sous format numérique, la géographie historique environnementale projette des créneaux intellectuels neufs pour saisir les rapports entre les populations et leurs milieux de vie.
Peer learning and cultural evolution
Authors: Lew‐Levy Sheina , van den Bos Wouter , Corriveau Kathleen , Dutra Natália , Flynn Emma , O'Sullivan Eoin , Pope‐Caldwell Sarah , Rawlings Bruce , Smolla Marco , Xu Jing , Wood Lara
Published: May 2023

In this article, we integrate cultural evolutionary theory with empirical research from developmental psychology, cultural anthropology, and primatology to explore the role of peer learning in the development of complex instrumental skills and behavioral norms. We show that instrumental imitation, contingent teaching, generative collaboration, and selective copying contribute to domain‐specific transmission of knowledge between peers. Stages of development and characteristics inherent to the learner and model influence how and when children learn from each other. Peer learning is persistent across societies despite cultural beliefs that favor adult–child transmission in some settings. Comparative research hints at the possibility that children's greater motivation to interact with and learn from each other may set humans apart from other primates. We conclude by outlining avenues for future research, including how individual characteristics and developmental changes in social networks, motivation, and cognition may contribute to cultural evolution.
Computed tomography of the equine elbow: A subchondral bone lesion in a novel location
Authors: Bowkett‐Pritchard Constance , Sinovich Matthew , Meehan Lucinda J.
Published: May 2023

A yearling Oldenburg filly presented for acute severe forelimb lameness, localised to the cubital joint by intrasynovial anaesthesia. Computed tomographic examination of the elbow under general anaesthesia revealed a region of osseous resorption surrounded by a sclerotic rim within the medial epicondyle of the humerus. The lesion was confirmed via arthroscopy and treated with debridement and subsequent intra‐articular stem cell therapy. The authors describe a resorptive subchondral bone lesion in a previously undescribed location within the elbow.
Complement: Functions, location and implications
Authors: Kareem Samer , Jacob Alexander , Mathew John , Quigg Richard J. , Alexander Jessy J.
Published: May 2023

The complement system, an arm of the innate immune system plays a critical role in both health and disease. The complement system is highly complex with dual possibilities, helping or hurting the host, depending on the location and local microenvironment. The traditionally known functions of complement include surveillance, pathogen recognition, immune complex trafficking, processing and pathogen elimination. The noncanonical functions of the complement system include their roles in development, differentiation, local homeostasis and other cellular functions. Complement proteins are present in both, the plasma and on the membranes. Complement activation occurs both extra‐ and intracellularly, which leads to considerable pleiotropy in their activity. In order to design more desirable and effective therapies, it is important to understand the different functions of complement, and its location‐based and tissue‐specific responses. This manuscript will provide a brief overview into the complex nature of the complement cascade, outlining some of their complement‐independent functions, their effects at different locale, and their implication in disease settings.
Final‐stage densification kinetics of direct current–sintered ZrB2
Authors: Stanfield Austin D. , Smith Steven M. , Filipović Suzana , Obradović Nina , Buljak Vladimir , Hilmas Gregory E. , Fahrenholtz William G.
Published: May 2023

Final‐stage sintering was analyzed for nominally phase pure zirconium diboride synthesized by borothermal reduction of high‐purity ZrO2. Analysis was conducted on ZrB2 ceramics with relative densities greater than 90% using the Nabarro–Herring stress–directed vacancy diffusion model. Temperatures of 1900°C or above and an applied uniaxial pressure of 50 MPa were required to fully densify ZrB2 ceramics by direct current sintering. Ram travel data were collected and used to determine the relative density of the specimens during sintering. Specimens sintered between 1900 and 2100°C achieved relative densities greater than 97%, whereas specimens sintered below 1900°C failed to reach the final stage of sintering. The average grain size ranged from 1.0 to 14.7 μm. The activation energy was calculated from the slope of an Arrhenius plot that used the Kalish equation. The activation energy was 162 ± 34 kJ/mol, which is consistent with the activation energy for dislocation movement in ZrB2. The diffusion coefficients for dislocation motion that controls densification were 5.1 × 10−6 cm2/s at 1900°C and 5.1 × 10−5 cm2/s at 2100°C, as calculated from activation energy and average grain sizes. This study provides evidence that the dominant mechanism for final‐stage sintering of ZrB2 ceramics is dislocation motion.
Tissue‐ and diet‐dependent stable carbon and nitrogen isotope discrimination: a calibration study in a captive shorebird species
Authors: Oortwijn Tim , de Monte Luc G. G. , Varley Daniel P. , van der Meer Marcel T. J. , van Gils Jan A.
Published: May 2023

In ecology, stable‐isotope ratios are widely used to determine diets of organisms and reconstruct food webs. This is usually done by analyzing the stable‐isotope ratios of nitrogen (δ15N), which increase with increasing trophic level, and those of carbon (δ13C), which correlate with the δ13C value of food source(s) and generally differ between terrestrial and marine food sources. Assimilation of food changes stable‐isotope ratios, resulting in different values between the food source and its consumer. These differences are known as isotope trophic discrimination factors and, if known, can be used to determine from the stable‐isotope ratios in the consumer's tissue what the consumer has been eating. What is often ignored is that discrimination factors can differ between consumer's food sources and also between tissue types. Therefore, we performed a controlled feeding study in red knots Calidris canutus to determine discrimination factors between different food sources and red knot tissues. We kept two groups of red knots in captivity on a stable diet, one group feeding on mudsnails and the other on Trouvit pellets, for several months, during which the birds molted their feathers. We analyzed δ13C and δ15N in both food sources and in five red knot tissues (blood cells, blood plasma and three feather types) and subsequently calculated the isotope discrimination factors. We confirmed that the discrimination factors differed between tissues, and also between diets. Our values deviated from general averages reported in reviews on a wide range of animals/birds, but were very similar to values from previous red knot and dunlin studies. We therefore think that our discrimination factors can be used in future stable isotope studies, not only on red knots, but also on other marine shorebird species and plea for careful consideration of using the right discrimination factors.

Keywords: δ13C, δ15N, discrimination factor, red knot, shorebird, stable isotope
The spillover effects of financial misconduct on director‐interlocked firms: Evidence from auditor scrutiny
Authors: Li Rong , Cai Wenjing , Wang Zehao
Published: May 2023

This paper examines the impact of firm financial misconduct on its director‐interlocked firms from the perspective of auditors. We argue that when a firm engages in financial misconduct, auditors tend to perceive its director‐interlocked firms as having higher audit risks. This is because accounting policies, procedures and corporate governance can propagate via common directors. Using a sample of listed US firms from 1999 to 2018, we find that auditors charge higher fees for firms whose director‐interlocked firms engage in financial misconduct. Further analyses show that this spillover effect is stronger when focal firms are riskier (when they are financially distressed or have worse earnings quality) or they have weaker alternative monitoring mechanisms (as evidenced by lower institutional shareholding). The effect is also more prominent when the tainted directors hold important positions or the financial misconduct is more severe. We also find that the higher auditor fees arise from not only risk premium but also greater audit effort. Our results are still valid after conducting a series of robustness tests.
Right atrial collision time (RACT): A novel marker of propensity for typical atrial flutter
Authors: Ryckman Nick , Crinion Derek , Enriquez Andres , Bakker David , Chacko Sanoj , Abdollah Hoshiar , Baranchuk Adrian , Simpson Christopher , Redfearn Damian P.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

The risk of typical atrial flutter (AFL) is increased proportionately to right atrial (RA) size or right atrial scarring that results in reduced conduction velocity. These characteristics result in propagation of a flutter wave by ensuring the macro re‐entrant wave front does not meet its refractory tail. The time taken to traverse the circuit would take account of both of these characteristics and may provide a novel marker of propensity to develop AFL. Our goal was to investigate right atrial collision time (RACT) as a marker of existing typical AFL.

Methods

This single‐centre, prospective study recruited consecutive typical AFL ablation patients that were in sinus rhythm. Controls were consecutive electrophysiology study patients >18 years of age. While pacing the coronary sinus (CS) ostium at 600 ms, a local activation time map was created to locate the latest collision point on the anterolateral right atrial wall. This RACT is a measure of conduction velocity and distance from CS to a collision point on the lateral right atrial wall.

Results

Ninety‐eight patients were included in the analysis, 41 with atrial flutter and 57 controls. Patients with atrial flutter were older, 64.7 ± 9.7 versus 52.4 ± 16.8 years (<.001), and more often male (34/41 vs. 31/57 [.003]). The AFL group mean RACT (132.6 ± 17.3 ms) was significantly longer than that of controls (99.1 ± 11.6 ms) (p < .001). A RACT cut‐off of 115.5 ms had a sensitivity and specificity of 92.7% and 93.0%, respectively for diagnosis of atrial flutter. A ROC curve indicated an AUC of 0.96 (95% CI: 0.93–1.0, p < .01).

Conclusion

RACT is a novel and promising marker of propensity for typical AFL. This data will inform larger prospective studies.
A frog‐derived antimicrobial peptide as a potential anti‐biofilm agent in combating Staphylococcus aureus skin infection
Authors: Fei Fan , Wang Tao , Jiang Yangyang , Chen Xiaoling , Ma Chengbang , Zhou Mei , Wu Qinan , Cao Peng , Duan Jinao , Chen Tianbao , Burrows James F. , Wang Lei
Published: May 2023

Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus), one of the most prevalent bacteria found in atopic dermatitis lesions, can induce ongoing infections and inflammation by downregulating the expression of host defence peptides in the skin. In addition, the emergence of the ‘superbug’ Methicillin‐resistant S. aureus (MRSA) has made the treatment of these infections more challenging. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), due to their potent antimicrobial activity, limited evidence of resistance development, and potential immunomodulatory effects, have gained increasing attention as potential therapeutic agents for atopic dermatitis. In this study, we report a novel AMP, brevinin‐1E‐OG9, isolated from the skin secretions of Odorrana grahami, which shows potent antibacterial activity, especially against S. aureus. Based on the characteristics of the ‘Rana Box’, we designed a set of brevinin‐1E‐OG9 analogues to explore its structure–activity relationship. Brevinin‐1E‐OG9c‐De‐NH2 exhibited the most potent antimicrobial efficacy in both in vitro and ex vivo studies and attenuated inflammatory responses induced by lipoteichoic acid and heat‐killed microbes. As a result, brevinin‐1E‐OG9c‐De‐NH2 might represent a promising candidate for the treatment of S. aureus skin infections.
Combatting antifungal resistance: Paradigm shift in the diagnosis and management of onychomycosis and dermatomycosis
Authors: Gupta Aditya K. , Talukder Mesbah , Carviel Jessie L. , Cooper Elizabeth A. , Piguet Vincent
Published: May 2023

Antifungal resistance has become prevalent worldwide. Understanding the factors involved in spread of resistance allows the formulation of strategies to slow resistance development and likewise identify solutions for the treatment of highly recalcitrant fungal infections. To investigate the recent explosion of resistant strains, a literature review was performed focusing on four main areas: mechanisms of resistance to antifungal agents, diagnosis of superficial fungal infections, management, and stewardship. The use of traditional diagnostic tools such as culture, KOH analysis and minimum inhibitory concentration values on treatment were investigated and compared to the newer techniques such as molecular methods including whole genome sequencing, and polymerase chain reaction. The management of terbinafine‐resistant strains is discussed. We have emphasized the need for antifungal stewardship including increasing surveillance for resistant infection.
Bet-hedging via dispersal aids the evolution of plastic responses to unreliable cues
Authors: Draghi Jeremy A.
Published: May 2023

Adaptive plasticity is expected to evolve when informative cues predict environmental variation. However, plastic responses can be maladaptive even when those cues are informative, if prediction mistakes are shared across members of a generation. These fitness costs can constrain the evolution of plasticity when initial plastic mutants use of cues of only moderate reliability. Here, we model the barriers to the evolution of plasticity produced by these constraints and show that dispersal across a metapopulation can overcome them. Constraints are also lessened, though not eliminated, when plastic responses are free to evolve gradually and in concert with increased reliability. Each of these factors be viewed as a form of bet-hedging: by lessening correlations in the fates of relatives, dispersal acts as diversifying bet-hedging, while producing submaximal responses to a cue can be understood as a conservative bet-hedging strategy. While poor information may constrain the evolution of plasticity, the opportunity for bet-hedging may predict when that constraint can be overcome.

Abstract

Populations may make bad predictions when when using partially reliable cues to track changing environments (left). These mistakes can render plasticity deleterious (s < 0); right) when cue reliability is low, but dispersal among demes spreads out the effects of mistakes and allows the evolution of adaptive plasticity.
Extending records of albinism and skin disorders in American cownose rays to southeastern Brazil
Authors: Rodrigues Alexandre , Shkola Wesley , Rangel Bianca S.
Published: May 2023

Albinism is a genetic condition expressed as a lack of integumentary and retinal melanin. Although documented across many vertebrate species, albinism and other skin disorders are rarely observed in elasmobranchs (sharks and rays). The present study describes the first confirmed case of albinism in American cownose ray (Rhinoptera bonasus), and three other juveniles of the species with undetermined skin disorders observed in São Paulo, southeastern Brazil. Pigmentation disorders have already been observed in American cownose rays from the North Atlantic, including two cases of leucism and a possible albinism. Based on the results, it was discussed the possible consequences of albinism for the ray survival as well as the possible causes for the undetermined skin disorders.
Gamma‐glutamyl transferase predicts pemafibrate treatment response in non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease
Authors: Takahashi Yusuke , Seko Yuya , Yamaguchi Kanji , Takeuchi Kento , Yano Kota , Kataoka Seita , Moriguchi Michihisa , Itoh Yoshito
Published: May 2023

Background and Aim

Pemafibrate, a selective peroxisome proliferator activated receptor α modulator, has been shown to improve liver function among nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) patients with dyslipidemia. The aim of this retrospective study is to identify predictors of pemafibrate efficacy in NAFLD patients.

Methods

A total of 75 NAFLD patients with dyslipidemia who received pemafibrate twice per day for 48 weeks were enrolled in this study. We used the FibroScan‐aspartate aminotransferase (FAST) score as a benchmark for treatment efficacy.

Results

Median FAST score significantly decreased from 0.96 at baseline to 0.93 at week 48 (P < 0.001). Significant improvements in levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), gamma‐glutamyl transferase (GGT), and triglycerides were also noted. The serum level of GGT at baseline was correlated with change in FAST score (r = −0.22, P = 0.049). Changes in AST, ALT, and GGT were positively correlated with change in FAST score (r = 0.71, r = 0.61, and r = 0.38). Multivariate analyses identified age and GGT level at baseline as significantly associated with improvement of FAST score by pemafibrate therapy (odds ratio 1.11, 1.02, respectively). Patients over 50 years of age and with a GGT of 90 IU/L or higher showed significantly greater improvement in the FAST score than other groups.

Conclusions

Pemafibrate improves the FAST score of NAFLD patients with complicating dyslipidemia, especially in older patients with high GGT level. GGT is useful as an indicator of optimal treatment choice for NAFLD patients with dyslipidemia.
Social Media Usage as a Form of Breastfeeding Support Among Black Mothers: A Scoping Review of the Literature
Authors: Haley Chanell O. , Gross Tyra T. , Story Chandra R. , McElderry Cathy G. , Stone Kahler W.
Published: May 2023

Introduction

Social support has been identified in the literature as a key facilitator of breastfeeding success among Black mothers. Over the past decade, there has been a surge of social media groups that can now be used as a means of support for various health and social issues. Social media breastfeeding groups have been used as sources of additional support. A scoping review of the literature was conducted to explore social media usage as a form of social support among Black women in the postpartum period and how it may affect breastfeeding behaviors.

Methods

Using the 5‐stage scoping review methodology, scholarly databases were searched for relevant articles. English‐language articles on studies conducted both in and outside of the United States were included. Original studies that focused on social media as a form of breastfeeding support and included Black mothers as part of the study population were included.

Results

After screening 551 articles, 6 studies fulfilled the study criteria. Participants reported being provided with various forms of social support through social media within the included articles. Primary themes included (1) a sense of community and (2) self‐efficacy and empowerment. Breastfeeding support through social media appears to positively influence breastfeeding intention and duration rates among Black mothers.

Discussion

Social media is an accessible avenue for breastfeeding information and support. Moreover, it provides a safe space for Black women to interact with others of shared cultural experiences. Therefore, incorporating social media into breastfeeding interventions can positively affect breastfeeding rates among Black women. More research is needed to assess the direct effect of social media breastfeeding support groups on the breastfeeding behaviors and experiences of Black women.
Relationship Between Temporomandibular Ankylosis And Maximum Mouth Opening In Children
Authors: Kolçakoğlu Kevser , Doğan Salih , Zararsız Gökmen , Kütük Nükhet , Gönen Zeynep Burçin
Published: May 2023

Background

Pediatric dentists should have information regarding whether mouth opening is limited. In clinical practice, these professionals should collect and record oral area measurements at the pediatric patient's first medical examination.

Objectives

The study's aim developed the standard mouth opening measurement in children by using ordinary least squares regression to develop a clinical prediction model in children with Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis before preoperative surgery.

Methods

All participants completed their age, gender, and calculated height, weight, body mass index, and birth weight. Pediatric dentist performed all mouth‐opening measurements. The oral‐maxillofacial surgeon marked subnasal and pogonion points for the lower facial length of soft tissue. It was measured using the distance between the subnasal and pogonion with a digital vernier caliper. The widths of the three fingers (index, middle, and ring fingers) and four fingers (index, middle, ring, and little fingers) were also measured using a digital vernier caliper.

Results

Maximum mouth opening showed that three‐finger width (R2 = 0.566, F = 185.479) and four‐finger width (R2 = 0.462, F = 122.209) had a significant influence on the Maximum mouth opening (MMO) (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Pediatric dentists should collaborate with the treating maxillofacial surgeon to manage long‐term treatment needs for individuals with Temporomandibular Joint Ankylosis.
Does sensory quality assessed by beverage experts fit consumer acceptability? A study on cheongju
Authors: Byeon Yang Soo , Heo JeongAe , Kwak Han Sub , Baek Hyung Hee , Lee Young‐seung , Kim Sang Sook
Published: May 2023

Cheongju is traditional fermented liquor consisting of the filtered moieties of rice wine. In this study, the sensory quality of cheongjus judged by beverage experts (e.g., sommeliers) were compared with its acceptability. Total 166 consumers evaluated the acceptability of the cheongju samples, and 10 sommeliers appraised the sensory quality. Descriptive analysis was conducted by 11 trained panelists, and the volatile compounds were identified by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. Partial least square regression was performed to establish the association of the quality scores given by sommeliers (Y1) and the acceptability scores given by consumers (Y2) relative to the cheongju's sensory attributes or volatile compounds (Xs). The consumer acceptability was highly correlated with sweet notes and related volatile compounds, such as isoamyl alcohol. Conversely, sensory quality by sommeliers was highly correlated with sensory notes caused by alcoholic compounds. These results demonstrate how consumers' acceptance for cheongju may differ from a sommelier's quality appraisal.

Practical Applications

This study reported differentiations between sommeliers' appraisals and consumers' preferences for evaluating cheongju in terms of volatile compounds and descriptive sensory attributes. Key sensory attributes and volatile compounds were provided for each sommelier's appraisal and for consumers' preferences for cheongju. Overall, this study provides objective information on the discrepancies between sensory quality and hedonic notions of traditional liquor. Future studies should elaborate on the sommelier effect through tasking informed condition, as sommeliers' recommendations may affect customers' choices and satisfaction.
Effects of (non)deceptive placebos on reported sleep quality and food cue reactivity
Authors: Potthoff Jonas , Schienle Anne
Published: May 2023

A lack of sleep can increase appetite, particularly for high‐calorie food. The current study tested the effects of an open‐label placebo for improving sleep quality and reducing food cue reactivity. In open‐label placebo interventions, placebo recipients are informed that they are receiving a placebo without a pharmacologically active substance. Participants (n = 150) were randomly allocated to one of three groups that received either an open‐label placebo to improve sleep quality, a deceptive placebo (“melatonin”), or no placebo. The placebo was administered daily before bedtime for 1 week. Sleep quality and reactivity to high‐calorie food cues (appetite, visual attention to food images) were assessed. The deceptive placebo (but not the open‐label placebo) reduced reported sleep‐onset latency. The open‐label placebo decreased perceived sleep efficiency. The placebo interventions did not change food cue reactivity. This study demonstrated that open‐label placebos do not present an alternative to deceptive placebos for improving sleep quality. The undesirable open‐label placebo effects found warrant further exploration.
Inferring the ecological and evolutionary determinants of community genetic diversity
Authors: Overcast Isaac , Noguerales Víctor , Meramveliotakis Emmanouil , Andújar Carmelo , Arribas Paula , Creedy Thomas J. , Emerson Brent C. , Vogler Alfried P. , Papadopoulou Anna , Morlon Hélène
Published: May 2023

Understanding the relative contributions of ecological and evolutionary processes to the structuring of ecological communities is needed to improve our ability to predict how communities may respond to future changes in an increasingly human‐modified world. Metabarcoding methods make it possible to gather population genetic data for all species within a community, unlocking a new axis of data to potentially unveil the origins and maintenance of biodiversity at local scales. Here, we present a new eco‐evolutionary simulation model for investigating community assembly dynamics using metabarcoding data. The model makes joint predictions of species abundance, genetic variation, trait distributions and phylogenetic relationships under a wide range of parameter settings (e.g. high speciation/low dispersal or vice versa) and across a range of community states, from pristine and unmodified to heavily disturbed. We first demonstrate that parameters governing metacommunity and local community processes leave detectable signatures in simulated biodiversity data axes. Next, using a simulation‐based machine learning approach we show that neutral and non‐neutral models are distinguishable and that reasonable estimates of several model parameters within the local community can be obtained using only community‐scale genetic data, while phylogenetic information is required to estimate those describing metacommunity dynamics. Finally, we apply the model to soil microarthropod metabarcoding data from the Troodos mountains of Cyprus, where we find that communities in widespread forest habitats are structured by neutral processes, while high‐elevation and isolated habitats act as an abiotic filter generating non‐neutral community structure. We implement our model within the ibiogen R package, a package dedicated to the investigation of island, and more generally community‐scale, biodiversity using community‐scale genetic data.
Rapid evolutionary change, constraints and the maintenance of polymorphism in natural populations of Drosophila melanogaster
Authors: Glaser‐Schmitt Amanda , Ramnarine Timothy J. S. , Parsch John
Published: May 2023

Allele frequencies can shift rapidly within natural populations. Under certain conditions, repeated rapid allele frequency shifts can lead to the long‐term maintenance of polymorphism. In recent years, studies of the model insect Drosophila melanogaster have suggested that this phenomenon is more common than previously believed and is often driven by some form of balancing selection, such as temporally fluctuating or sexually antagonistic selection. Here we discuss some of the general insights into rapid evolutionary change revealed by large‐scale population genomic studies, as well as the functional and mechanistic causes of rapid adaptation uncovered by single‐gene studies. As an example of the latter, we consider a regulatory polymorphism of the D. melanogaster fezzik gene. Polymorphism at this site has been maintained at intermediate frequency over an extended period of time. Regular observations from a single population over a period of 7 years revealed significant differences in the frequency of the derived allele and its variance across collections between the sexes. These patterns are highly unlikely to arise from genetic drift alone or from the action of sexually antagonistic or temporally fluctuating selection individually. Instead, the joint action of sexually antagonistic and temporally fluctuating selection can best explain the observed rapid and repeated allele frequency shifts. Temporal studies such as those reviewed here further our understanding of how rapid changes in selection can lead to the long‐term maintenance of polymorphism as well as improve our knowledge of the forces driving and limiting adaptation in nature.
Method for calculating pressure losses in the pipelines of slurry shield tunneling based on coupled simulation of computational fluid dynamics and discrete element method
Authors: Yang Yi , Li Xinggao , Guo Yidong , Fang Yingran
Published: May 2023

Hydraulic mucking/transport or slurry pipelining are widely used in dredging, trenching, (deep sea) mining, tunnel boring, and many other applications. Slurry pipelining during slurry shield tunneling is a classic instance of complex hydraulic mucking systems, which is characterized by the complex rheological behavior of the slurry and the inclusion of large and irregular particles. These characteristics make it difficult to estimate the pressure losses along slurry pipelines, compared to other hydraulic mucking systems. This study established a powerful method for predicting the pressure losses in long‐distance slurry pipelining of slurry shield tunneling based on computational fluid dynamics–discrete element method (CFD‐DEM)‐coupled simulations. Rheological tests were carried out to provide reliable slurry flow parameters for CFD calculations. Irregular pebbles with different sizes were digitally scanned using 3D scanning technology, and the scanned models were applied to the DEM. This method was successfully applied to a slurry shield tunnel project in Beijing, China. The mechanical properties of the fluid phase and particle phase were revealed by modeling a typical slurry pipeline. A comparison of the pressure losses along slurry pipelines was made between the proposed method and field data, indicating the validity of the established method. The simulation results indicate that when the slurry flows through the elbow, a secondary flow will be formed due to centrifugal force. Pebbles of different sizes show different motion responses under the combined action of gravity and slurry coupling force. The turbulent flow of particles will increase the frictional pressure losses in the elbow area, compared to the straight section. This work provides a valuable reference for the layout of the slurry circulation system of similar projects.
The problem of nomological harmony
Authors: Cutter Brian , Saad Bradford
Published: May 2023

Our universe features a harmonious match between laws and states: applying its laws to its states generates other states. This is a striking fact. Matters might have been otherwise. The universe might have been stillborn in a state unengaged by its laws. The problem of nomological harmony is that of explaining the noted striking fact. After introducing and developing this problem, we canvass candidate solutions and identify some of their virtues and vices. Candidate solutions invoke the likes of a designer, axiarchic meta‐laws, multiverses, essential causal powers, and Humean laws.