bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electro‐acupuncture and its combination with adult stem cell transplantation for spinal cord injury treatment: A summary of current laboratory findings and a review of literature
Authors: Zeng Yuan‐Shan , Ding Ying , Xu Hao‐Yu , Zeng Xiang , Lai Bi‐Qin , Li Ge , Ma Yuan‐Huan
Published: February 2022

The incidence and disability rate of spinal cord injury (SCI) worldwide are high, imposing a heavy burden on patients. Considerable research efforts have been directed toward identifying new strategies to effectively treat SCI. Governor Vessel electro‐acupuncture (GV‐EA), used in traditional Chinese medicine, combines acupuncture with modern electrical stimulation. It has been shown to improve the microenvironment of injured spinal cord (SC) by increasing levels of endogenous neurotrophic factors and reducing inflammation, thereby protecting injured neurons and promoting myelination. In addition, axons extending from transplanted stem cell‐derived neurons can potentially bridge the two severed ends of tissues in a transected SC to rebuild neuronal circuits and restore motor and sensory functions. However, every single treatment approach to severe SCI has proven unsatisfactory. Combining different treatments—for example, electro‐acupuncture (EA) with adult stem cell transplantation—appears to be a more promising strategy. In this review, we have summarized the recent progress over the past two decades by our team especially in the use of GV‐EA for the repair of SCI. By this strategy, we have shown that EA can stimulate the nerve endings of the meningeal branch. This would elicit the dorsal root ganglion neurons to secrete excess amounts of calcitonin gene‐related peptide centrally in the SC. The neuropeptide then activates the local cells to secrete neurotrophin‐3 (NT‐3), which mediates the survival and differentiation of donor stem cells overexpressing the NT‐3 receptor, at the injury/graft site of the SC. Increased local production of NT‐3 facilitates reconstruction of host neural tissue such as nerve fiber regeneration and myelination. All this events in sequence would ultimately strengthen the cortical motor‐evoked potentials and restore the motor function of paralyzed limbs. The information presented herein provides a basis for future studies on the clinical application of GV‐EA and adult stem cell transplantation for the treatment of SCI.
Is perforation no longer an adverse event? There's a sol, there's a solution
Authors: Yoshida Masao
Published: February 2022

This Editorial refers to the article by T. Uraoka et al., p 105‐112 of the issue DEN 34:1.
Precursors of self‐regulation in infants at elevated likelihood for autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Garon Nancy , Zwaigenbaum Lonnie , Bryson Susan E. , Smith Isabel M. , Brian Jessica , Roncadin Caroline , Vaillancourt Tracy , Armstrong Vickie L. , Sacrey Lori‐Ann R. , Roberts Wendy
Published: February 2022

Research concerning temperament in children and adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has suggested a consistent profile of low positive affect, high negative affect, and low regulation (Visser et al., 2016). One area receiving less attention is individual differences among children diagnosed with ASD. The primary objective of this study was to use a person‐centered approach to explore heterogeneity of early temperament precursors of regulation in a large sample of infants with elevated familial likelihood of ASD. Early precursors of regulation included temperament assessed at 6, 12, and 24 months whereas outcome measures were diagnosis of ASD, cognitive ability and adaptive behavior at 36 months. Participants included 176 low‐likelihood and 473 elevated‐likelihood infants, 129 of whom were diagnosed with ASD at 3 years. Results supported a three‐profile solution: a well‐regulated profile (high positive affect and high attentional focus and shifting), a low attention focus profile (higher attentional shifting compared to attentional focus), and a low attention shifting profile (higher attentional focus compared to attentional shifting). A higher proportion of children diagnosed with ASD were classified into the low attention shifting profile. Furthermore, children with the well‐regulated profile were differentiated from the other profiles by a pattern of higher social competence and lower dysregulation whereas children with the low attention focus profile were distinguished from the other profiles by higher cognitive ability at 3 years. The findings indicate that the combination of early positive affect with attention measures may provide an enhanced tool for prediction of self‐regulation and later outcomes.
A 30‐year systematic review reveals success in tephritid fruit fly biological control research
Authors: Dias Naymã Pinto , Montoya Pablo , Nava Dori Edson
Published: February 2022

Fruit flies (Diptera: Tephritidae) are among the main pests in horticulture, impacting field crops and export markets. The biological control of fruit flies has become an important method for environmentally friendly crop production. Although biological control is an age‐old practice and the mass‐rearing of some biological agents boomed in the 1990s, efforts in fruit fly control programs still face several challenges. We conducted a systematic review to investigate publications assessing the success or failure of using natural enemies against tephritid fruit flies. Our goal was to compile and summarize information from over 30 years of research on biocontrol efforts, including groups and species of control agents and fruit flies tested, methodological approaches applied, the country where the study was performed, and the scope adopted. We also analyzed effectiveness, efficiency, and success rates in biocontrol studies published from 1990 to 2021. Our review showed 2986 records, of which 225 publications matched the criteria. The most‐studied biocontrol agents for the suppression of fruit flies were parasitoids, fungi, and nematodes. A few studies assessed bacteria, predators, and viruses. We found a total of 55 fruit fly species described as hosts of the biological agents. Natural/conservation biological control was the main scope studied; however, augmentative biological control had a higher rate of successful studies and potential success, followed by classical biological control. The effectiveness and efficiency parameters are discussed to provide support for researchers in future studies.
The introduced oak Quercus rubra and acorn‐associated arthropods in Europe: An opportunity for both carpophagous insects and their ant predators
Authors: Giannetti Daniele , Schifani Enrico , Castracani Cristina , Spotti Fiorenza Augusta , Mori Alessandra , Grasso Donato Antonio
Published: February 2022

We studied the interactions involving oak acorns and associated arthropods focusing on the role of the introduced Quercus rubra in Italy.

We conducted our study in areas where native oaks coexist with Q. rubra. We carried out a survey on the arthropods inhabiting fallen acorns and a colonisation experiment. Furthermore, we conducted laboratory experiments documenting the interactions among the most abundant arthropod species on Q. rubra.

Acorns were colonised by ant species and carpophagous insects showing different preferences concerning acorns' position within the leaf litter and oak species. Acorns of Q. rubra were colonised frequently by ants (mostly Temnothorax nylanderi) and Cydia fagiglandana. Cydia splendana preferred native acorns, while Curculio beetles were ubiquitous. Our data suggest that ants occupy exclusively acorns previously attacked by Cydia, killing or displacing their caterpillars if still developing inside the acorns. Vertebrates may prefer to feed on Q. rubra acorns over native species.

Quercus rubra has a meaningful influence on native arthropods associated with oak acorns. The ecological consequences of this interaction are still not fully clear, yet our data suggest an increase in acorn‐consuming insects, partly affecting the acorns of neighbouring native oaks, but also an increase of predatory ants.
Students' resilience and mental health in the dental curriculum
Authors: Maragha Tala , Donnelly Leeann , Schuetz Christian , von Bergmann HsingChi , Brondani Mario
Published: February 2022

Objectives

Dental education is perceived as a source of students’ psychological and occupational stress. Resilience has been proposed as a protective factor that may support students’ in managing that stress. The objectives of this study were twofold: to map the mental health and well‐being content in the curriculum of the Faculty of Dentistry (FoD) at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and to investigate factors influencing resilience levels amongst dental students at UBC.

Methods

The curricular database and website of UBC's FoD were used to gather information on mental health content. A survey with the Connor‐Davidson 10‐Item Resilience Scale was distributed to dental students at UBC (N = 289). Students' de‐identified demographic data were also collected.

Results

Two main mental health and well‐being curricular components were identified: one didactic session on stress management and one interactive workshop on resilience. The response rate for the survey was 68.2%. Students who did not receive any mental health content (2020/21 year 1 students) had higher resilience scores (p = .043) when compared to students who received both components (2019/20 year 1 students and 2018/19 year 2 students). The multiple regression analysis highlighted North American/European ethnic origins as a predictor for higher resilience levels (p = .008).

Conclusions

The results of this study showed that ethnic origins and major life events, such as the pandemic, influenced resilience. Curricular activities promoting resilience seemed to not necessarily impact students' resilience. Further longitudinal studies are needed to assess the curricular and non‐curricular activities influence over dental students' well‐being.
“Middle‐aged Old Mothers” in China: Childrearing Anxiety, Humor, and the Narrative Self
Authors: Xu Jing
Published: February 2022

With the rise of hyper education in contemporary China, the phrase “middle‐aged old mother” has become an important narrative identity for mothers over 30 in the urban middle class. Based on ethnographic and virtual fieldwork from 2018 to 2020, this paper weaves together interviews, observation, and social media data to examine mothers’ moral experience of childrearing anxiety in Beijing. This article goes beyond the surface content of “middle‐aged old mother” narratives and instead highlights the narrative context, style, intention, and effect. It aims to understand their first‐person narratives of parenting characterized by heightened uncertainty, high stakes, self‐reflexivity, and gender inequalities. The “middle‐aged old mother” script provides a template for and becomes the “co‐author” of Chinese mothers’ auto‐narratives: It blends self‐mockery, personal story, and social critique in an environment of intensifying competition and moral quandaries. The term is a deliberate act of humor and an invitation for empathy.
A guide to enzyme kinetics in early drug discovery
Authors: Srinivasan Bharath
Published: February 2022

Drugs interact with their target of interest to bring about the desired phenotypic outcome that results in disease alleviation. Traditionally, most lead optimization exercises were driven by affinity measures (like IC50) to inform structure–activity relationship (SAR)‐guided medicinal chemistry. However, an IC50 value is a thermodynamic estimate measured under equilibrium conditions that can vary as a function of substrate concentration and/or time (the latter especially for nonequilibrium modalities). Further, like other thermodynamic estimates, it is a state‐function that is indifferent to the path traversed from the initial state to the final state. This can be a cause for concern in drug discovery given the predominance of nonequilibrium interactions and the open thermodynamic nature of the human system. Under such situations, employing rates along with equilibrium constants (or IC50 values) would be far more relevant to capture the time evolution of the small molecule’s interaction with the target of interest. These rates are generally typified by the rate of association, rate of dissociation and the residence time of the small molecule on the target (target occupancy). These parameters, when combined with the concept of target vulnerability, therapeutic window, pharmacokinetic profile of the small molecule, estimates of endogenous ligand and target turnover, will shed critical insights into the kinetics and dynamics of a small molecule’s interaction with the protein, and allow realistic modelling of the system to enable optimizations and dosing decisions. With that aim, this guide will attempt to introduce the traditional role of mechanistic enzymology within drug discovery and emphasize the importance of kinetics in guiding SAR‐based optimizations. It will also present initial ideas on how kinetic investigation should be positioned relative to the temporal span of a drug‐discovery pipeline to leverage maximal utility from the investment in time and effort.
The C‐terminal end of mycobacterial HadBC regulates AcpM interaction during the FAS‐II pathway: a structural perspective
Authors: Singh Bina Kumari , Biswas Rupam , Bhattacharyya Sudipta , Basak Amit , Das Amit K.
Published: February 2022

Comprehending the molecular strategies employed by Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) in FAS‐II regulation is of paramount significance for curbing tuberculosis progression. Mtb employs two sets of dehydratases, namely HadAB and HadBC (β‐hydroxyacyl acyl carrier protein dehydratase), for the regulation of the fatty acid synthase (FAS‐II) pathway. We utilized a sequence similarity network to discern the basis for the presence of two copies of the dehydratase gene in Mtb. This analysis groups HadC and HadA in different clusters, which could be attributed to the variability in their physiological role with respect to the acyl chain uptake. Our study reveals structural details pertaining to the crystal structure of the last remaining enzyme of the FAS‐II pathway. It also provides insights into the highly flexible hot‐dog helix and substrate regulatory loop. Additionally, mutational studies assisted in establishing the role of the C‐terminal end in HadC of HadBC in the regulation of acyl carrier protein from Mtb‐mediated interactions. Complemented with surface plasmon resonance and molecular dynamics simulation studies, the present study provides the first evidence of the molecular mechanisms involved in the differential binding affinity of the acyl carrier protein from Mtb towards both mtbHadAB and mtbHadBC.
The impact of mobile demersal fishing on carbon storage in seabed sediments
Authors: Epstein Graham , Middelburg Jack J. , Hawkins Julie P. , Norris Catrin R. , Roberts Callum M.
Published: February 2022

Subtidal marine sediments are one of the planet's primary carbon stores and strongly influence the oceanic sink for atmospheric CO2. By far the most widespread human activity occurring on the seabed is bottom trawling/dredging for fish and shellfish. A global first‐order estimate suggested mobile demersal fishing activities may cause 0.16–0.4 Gt of organic carbon (OC) to be remineralized annually from seabed sediment carbon stores (Sala et al., 2021). There are, however, many uncertainties in this calculation. Here, we discuss the potential drivers of change in seabed sediment OC stores due to mobile demersal fishing activities and conduct a literature review, synthesizing studies where this interaction has been directly investigated. Under certain environmental settings, we hypothesize that mobile demersal fishing would reduce OC in seabed stores due to lower production of flora and fauna, the loss of fine flocculent material, increased sediment resuspension, mixing and transport and increased oxygen exposure. Reductions would be offset to varying extents by reduced faunal bioturbation and community respiration, increased off‐shelf transport and increases in primary production from the resuspension of nutrients. Studies which directly investigated the impact of demersal fishing on OC stocks had mixed results. A finding of no significant effect was reported in 61% of 49 investigations; 29% reported lower OC due to fishing activities, with 10% reporting higher OC. In relation to remineralization rates within the seabed, four investigations reported that demersal fishing activities decreased remineralization, with three reporting higher remineralization rates. Patterns in the environmental and experimental characteristics between different outcomes were largely indistinct. More evidence is urgently needed to accurately quantify the impact of anthropogenic physical disturbance on seabed carbon in different environmental settings and to incorporate full evidence‐based carbon considerations into global seabed management.
Patients' experiences across the trajectory of atrial fibrillation: A qualitative systematic review
Authors: Wang Jie , Liu Shenxinyu , Bao Zhipeng , Gao Min , Peng Yuanyuan , Huang Yangxi , Yu Tianxi , Wang Lin , Sun Guozhen
Published: February 2022

Aim

This study aimed to synthesize qualitative evidence on experiences of patients with atrial fibrillation (AF) during the course of diagnosis and treatment. We addressed three main questions: (a) What were the experiences of patients with AF during the course of diagnosis and treatment? (b) How did they respond to and cope with the disease? (c) What were the requirements during disease management?

Design

In this study, qualitative evidence synthesis was performed using the Thomas and Harden method.

Data Sources

Electronic databases, including PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Embase, Web of Science, Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature, the China Biomedical Database, the WanFang Database, Chinese National Knowledge Infrastructure and VIP, were searched. The databases were searched from inception to August 2021.

Review Methods

Two researchers independently selected studies using qualitative assessment and review instruments for quality evaluation and thematic synthesis for the data analysis.

Results

A total of 2627 studies were identified in the initial search and 15 studies were included. Five analytical themes were generated: ‘Diagnosing AF’; ‘The impact of AF on the patients’; ‘Self‐reorientation in the therapeutic process’; ‘Living with AF and QoL’; and ‘External support to facilitate coping strategies.’

Conclusions

Our findings point out unique experiences of patients across the trajectory of AF related to delayed diagnosis, feelings of nonsupport, disappointment of repeated treatment failure and multiple distress associated with unpredictable symptoms. Future research and clinical practice are expected to improve the quality of medical diagnosis and treatment, optimize administrative strategy and provide diverse health support for patients with AF.

Impact

Understanding the experiences and needs of patients with AF in the entire disease process will inform future clinical practice in AF integrated management, which would be helpful in improving the professionalism and confidence of healthcare providers. In addition, our findings have implications for improving the effectiveness of AF diagnostic and treatment services.

Patient or Public Contribution

This paper presents a review of previous studies and did not involve patients or the public.
Conservation biogeography of high‐altitude longhorn beetles under climate change
Authors: Poloni Riccardo , Iannella Mattia , Fusco Giuseppe , Fattorini Simone
Published: February 2022

High‐altitude insects are expected to be strongly affected by climate change because of their limited range. Phytophagous species will be subject to further threats because of their dependence on host plants.

We investigated the impact of climate change on the distribution of Italian high‐altitude longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) using a maximum entropy approach based on bioclimatic variables. We used 510 presence records for 15 species distributed throughout the Italian Alps and Apennines. Then, we combined climate‐based predictions with vegetation data to predict the future changes in the extent of suitable areas.

All species but two will move uphill to track suitable climates and will face a range contraction (with an average loss of 44%) under both climatic change scenarios considered. Suitable vegetation covers, on average, only 56% of the estimated current species ranges, which means that the future distribution will be even more limited. Given the importance of Italian mountains as hubs of diversity in the Mediterranean hotspot, these results are particularly alarming.

Conservation actions that can mitigate the effects of climate change on high‐altitude cerambycids should be focused on contrasting habitat loss and degradation through land preservation and the adoption of appropriate forest management practices.
EXPECTATIONS, STAGNATION, AND FISCAL POLICY: A NONLINEAR ANALYSIS
Authors: Evans George W. , Honkapohja Seppo , Mitra Kaushik
Published: February 2022

Stagnation and fiscal policy are examined in a nonlinear stochastic New‐Keynesian model with adaptive learning. There are three steady states. The steady state targeted by policy is locally but not globally stable under learning. A severe pessimistic expectations shock can trap the economy in a stagnation regime, underpinned by a low‐level steady state, with falling inflation and output. A large fiscal stimulus may be needed to avoid or emerge from stagnation, and the impacts of forward guidance, credit frictions, central bank credibility, and policy delay are studied. Our model encompasses a wide range of outcomes arising from pessimistic expectations shocks.
Gluten‐free cakes with walnut flour: a technological, sensory, and microstructural approach
Authors: Burbano Juan José , Cabezas Darío Marcelino , Correa María Jimena
Published: February 2022

Walnut flour (WF), a by‐product of walnut oil production, is characterised by high polyunsaturated fatty acids, proteins, and fibre contents and presents suitability for bakery products. However, when using non‐traditional ingredients, it is essential to evaluate the effect on the quality properties of the final product. So, this work aimed to assess the impact of WF on the technological, physicochemical, and sensory properties of gluten‐free (GF) cakes. WF was added at a flour blend (cassava (CS) and maize (MS) starches and rice flour) at 0, 10%, 15%, and 20%. The results showed that WF modified starch gelatinisation, increased amylose–lipid complex (ALC) content, and made crumbs easier to chew. Besides, the total dietary fibre (TDF) and protein content significantly increased. Cakes with 15% WF presented the highest specific volume (SV) and no differences in overall acceptability with respect to control. Hence, WF is a suitable ingredient for gluten‐free bakery products.
Proximate analysis, nutritional quality and anti‐amylase activity of bee propolis, bee bread and royal jelly
Authors: Fallah Masoomeh , Najafi Fatemeh , Kavoosi Gholamreza
Published: February 2022

This study discussed the proximate composition, nutritional properties, amino acid profile and anti‐amylase activity of royal jelly, propolis and bee bread. Royal jelly, bee bread and propolis have lower protein and lipid and more sugar than soybeans and eggs. Soybeans have the highest energy, followed by bee bread, propolis, royal jelly and eggs. Eggs have the highest protein digestibility, followed by royal jelly, bee bread, soybeans and propolis. The primary amino acids in bee bread, royal jelly and propolis are proline, glycine, lysine, alanine, aspartic acid, serine, glutamic acid, threonine, arginine, leucine, tyrosine, phenylalanine, histidine, β‐aminobutyric acid, valine, asparagine and methionine. Amino acids from royal jelly, propolis and bee bread inhibited amylase by increasing Km/Vmax and decreasing Vmax and Km through un‐competitive or non‐competitive strategies. Molecular docking, ultraviolet absorption and fluorescence quenching analysis showed that amino acids interact with amylase structure at the allosteric site through van der Waals interactions and hydrogen bonds. Bee products can be used as food supplements, ingredients and medications to manage diabetes by inhibiting amylase.
Genetic and phylogenetic characterization of Shiga toxin-producing Escherichia coli and enteropathogenic E. coli from livestock in Jiangsu by using whole-genome sequencing
Authors: Han Yue , Liu Minqi , Han Ying , Shi Naiyang , Wang Qiang , Cui Tingting , Yang Liuqing , Zhang Xuefeng , Zhu Liguo , Qian Huimin , Jin Hui , Dong Chen
Published: February 2022

Aims

There are knowledge gaps regarding STEC and EPEC strains in livestock in Jiangsu, China. This study aimed to evaluate the potential public health significance of STEC and EPEC strains isolated from livestock by determining the serotypes, virulence profiles, and genetic relationship with international STEC strains.

Methods and Results

A total of 68 STEC and 37 EPEC strains were obtained from 231 faecal sheep samples and 70 faecal cattle samples. By using whole-genome sequencing (WGS) analysis, all STEC belonged to 15 O: H serotypes, and the most prevalent serotypes were O6:H10 (19.1%), O155:H21 (14.7%), and O21:H25 (10.3%). The main Shiga toxin gene subtypes detected were stx1c (41.2%), stx1a (26.5%), stx2b (14.7%), and stx2k (14.7%). Only the STEC from cattle carried eae gene. Other adherence-associated or toxin-related genes, including lpfA (70.6%), iha (48.5%), subA (54.4%), and ehxA (33.8%), were found in STEC. All EPEC strains were bfpA-negative, and the predominant eae variants were eae-β1 (62.2%), eae-ζ (21.6%), and eae-θ (8.1%). The core-genome multi-locus sequence typing (cgMLST) analysis revealed nine scattered clusters in STEC and one dominant cluster in EPEC. The strains with the same serotypes, including O22:H8 and O43:H2 in the two towns, possessed a closely genomic distance. The core genome single-nucleotide polymorphism (cgSNP) showed that part of STEC strains in this study was clustered with isolates possessing the same serotypes from the Netherlands, Sweden, and Xinjiang of China. Five serotypes of STEC isolates were associated with the clinical STEC strains from databases.

Conclusion

This study provided the diverse serotypes and the virulence genes profiles in STEC and EPEC strains. Local strains possessed widely diverse and scattered clusters by cgMLST. Closely genomic correlation with clinical isolates displayed that part of the STEC strains may threaten to public health.

Significance and Impact of the Study

Non-O157 STEC strains act as important pathogens for human infections. This study supports the increased surveillance work of non-O157 STEC rather than just O157 STEC in this region.
A prospective cohort study on the association of lean body mass estimated by mid‐upper arm muscle circumference with hypertension risk in Chinese residents
Authors: Liu Yuyan , Sun Guifan , Li Yongfang
Published: February 2022

The associations of lean body mass (LBM) with elevated blood pressure (BP) and hypertension were controversial, and the causalities have never been shown. Mid‐upper arm muscle circumference (MAMC), an easily obtained anthropometric measurement, could provide an accurate estimate for LBM. Therefore, a prospective cohort study in general Chinese residents aiming to find out the relationship between LBM estimated using MAMC and hypertension risk was performed. Eight thousand one hundred eighty‐five eligible participants were included in the baseline analysis, among whom 3442 were subsequently selected into cohort analysis. MAMC was calculated using mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC) and triceps skinfold thickness (TST). Associations of MAMC with BP values and hypertension prevalence were estimated by linear and logistic regression models. Associations with hypertension incidence were estimated by COX regression models, hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) were given. Nonlinear relationship between MAMC and hypertension risk was estimated using restricted cubic spline method. Standardized coefficients of MUAC and TST were compared to estimate their strengths of associations with hypertension. Baseline analysis showed that after adjusted for confounders, the increase of systolic BP per standard deviation (SD) of MAMC were 1.97 mmHg (95%CI: 1.46, 2.48) and 1.63 mmHg (95%CI: 1.10, 2.16) respectively in men and women, and the increases of diastolic BP per SD were 1.58 mmHg (95%CI: 1.23, 1.92) and 1.08 mmHg (95%CI: 0.74, 1.42). Additionally, the association of MAMC with the prevalence of hypertension were also found in both men and women (OR = 1.36, 95%CI: 1.26, 1.47 in men; OR = 1.33, 95%CI: 1.22, 1.44 in women). Cohort analysis showed that MAMC increased the risk of hypertension (HR = 1.10, 95%CI: 1.01, 1.19 for men; HR = 1.15, 95%CI: 1.06, 1.26 for women), and a trend of J‐shaped relationship was found. Additionally, the stronger associations of MUAC with both BP values and hypertension than that of TST were found in both baseline and cohort analyses. Findings in our study implied that we cannot neglect the capacity of LBM in predicting hypertension risk, and LBM estimates should be recommended in general health surveys or examinations.
BMAL1 regulates mitochondrial homeostasis in renal ischaemia‐reperfusion injury by mediating the SIRT1/PGC‐1α axis
Authors: Ye Peng , Li Wei , Huang Xin , Zhao Sheng , Chen Wu , Xia Yuqi , Yu Weimin , Rao Ting , Ning Jinzhuo , Zhou Xiangjun , Ruan Yuan , Cheng Fan
Published: February 2022

The regulation of renal function by circadian gene BMAL1 has been recently recognized; however, the role and mechanism of BMAL1 in renal ischaemia‐reperfusion injury (IRI) are still unknown. The purpose of this study was to clarify the pathophysiological role of BMAL1 in renal IRI. We measured the levels of BMAL1 and mitochondrial biogenesis‐related proteins, including SIRT1, PGC‐1α, NRF1 and TFAM, in rats with renal IRI. In rats, the level of BMAL1 decreased significantly, resulting in inhibition of SIRT1 expression and mitochondrial biogenesis. In addition, under hypoxia and reoxygenation (H/R) stimulation, BMAL1 knockdown decreased the level of SIRT1 and exacerbated the degree of mitochondrial damage and apoptosis. Overexpression of BMAL1 alleviated H/R‐induced injury. Furthermore, application of the SIRT1 inhibitor EX527 not only reduced the activities of SIRT1 and PGC‐1α but also further aggravated mitochondrial dysfunction and partially reversed the protective effect of BMAL1 overexpression. Moreover, whether in vivo or in vitro, the application of SIRT1 agonist resveratrol rescued the mitochondrial dysfunction caused by H/R or IRI by activating mitochondrial biogenesis. These results indicate that BMAL1 is a key circadian gene that mediates mitochondrial homeostasis in renal IRI through the SIRT1/PGC‐1α axis, which provides a new direction for targeted therapy for renal IRI.
Efficacy and safety of once‐weekly semaglutide in Japanese individuals with type 2 diabetes by baseline age and body mass index
Authors: Yabe Daisuke , Yamada Yuichiro , Kaku Kohei , Nishida Tomoyuki , Sato Toshihiro , Seino Yutaka
Published: February 2022

Aims/Introduction

Many East Asians with type 2 diabetes are elderly and have a low body mass index (BMI), especially in 'super‐aged' populations, such as Japan. This post‐hoc analysis assessed once‐weekly semaglutide efficacy and safety in Japanese individuals with type 2 diabetes across baseline age and BMI subgroups.

Materials and Methods

Data were derived from the Semaglutide Unabated Sustainability in Treatment of Type 2 Diabetes (SUSTAIN) Japan monotherapy and SUSTAIN Japan oral antidiabetes drug (OAD) combination trials comparing once‐weekly semaglutide with sitagliptin or OADs, respectively. Participants were grouped by baseline age (<65 and ≥65 years) and/or BMI (<25 and ≥25 kg/m2). Reductions from baseline in glycosylated hemoglobin and bodyweight (efficacy), and adverse events (safety) were assessed.

Results

In this analysis, participants from the SUSTAIN Japan monotherapy trial (n = 308; n per subgroup; range, 8–73) and SUSTAIN Japan OAD combination trial (n = 601; n per subgroup; range, 20–168) were included. Reductions in glycosylated hemoglobin and bodyweight were numerically greater with semaglutide versus comparators across all age and BMI subgroups. Reductions from baseline in glycosylated hemoglobin ranged from –1.7 to –2.1 with semaglutide 0.5 mg, –1.8 to –2.4 with semaglutide 1.0 mg and –0.6 to –1.0 with comparators. Corresponding ranges for bodyweight (kg) were –1.0 to –2.5, –2.4 to –4.3 and 1.0 to –1.0 kg, respectively. The safety profile of semaglutide was broadly similar across BMI and age subgroups.

Conclusions

In this post‐hoc analysis with modest subgroup numbers, once‐weekly semaglutide appeared consistently more efficacious versus comparators across age and BMI subgroups in Japanese patients, with a similar safety profile.
Deciphering the influence of smoking in adults with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Aoki Valeria , Orfali Raquel Leão
Published: February 2022

Linked article: A.C. Pilz et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2022; 36: 413–421. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.17789.
Patient‐reported outcomes in adult atopic dermatitis are useful in both clinical trials and real‐life clinical practice
Authors: Stingeni L. , Marietti R. , Tramontana M. , Bianchi L. , Hansel K.
Published: February 2022

Linked article: J.P. Thyssen et al. J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol 2022; 36: 434–443. https://doi.org/10.1111/jdv.17813.
The use of lasers in vitiligo, an overview
Authors: Post N.F. , Ezekwe N. , Narayan V.S. , Bekkenk M.W. , Van Geel N. , Hamzavi I. , Passeron T. , Wolkerstorfer A.
Published: February 2022

Various types of lasers have been demonstrated to be effective in the treatment of vitiligo. The mode of action of these lasers is just as varied as the purpose of intervention. Many clinicians are not aware of the unique opportunity these lasers offer to improve the outcomes of vitiligo treatment. To date, no clear overview exists of the use of lasers in vitiligo treatment. Thus, the aim of this review is to discuss the various types of lasers and provide an overview of the evidence for their efficacy. We found good evidence from a systematic review that the excimer laser is effective, induces repigmentation rates comparable to NB‐UVB and has improved outcomes when combined with calcineurin inhibitors. Ablative lasers are commonly used for tissue graft or melanocyte–keratinocyte cell graft transplantation. They provide safe, fast and uniform denudation of the epidermis with propitious repigmentation outcomes. We found conflicting evidence from two systematic reviews regarding the efficacy of fractional ablative lasers for improving outcomes of NB‐UVB therapy, a systematic review including only fractional ablative lasers provided evidence for efficacy. Q‐switched nanosecond lasers have shown to be safe and effective for inducing depigmentation, although recurrence is common, and most studies were small and retrospective. Despite proven efficacy and safety, laser treatments are relatively expensive and suited for limited body surface areas and selected cases. Each type of laser has benefits and risks associated and should, therefore, be individually chosen based on location, extent, activity and type of vitiligo.
Quantitative detection of parasitic ciliate Cryptocaryon irritans in seawater with an optimized sample processing method
Authors: Tang Jia‐Jia , Zhong Zhi‐Hong , Li Zhi‐Cheng , Guo Qing‐Kai , Li Shi‐Yu , Guo Yi‐Xuan , Jiang Biao , Li An‐Xing
Published: February 2022

The protozoan Cryptocaryon irritans is one of the most important ectoparasites of marine fish, causing ‘white spot disease’ and mass mortality in aquaculture. To accurately predict disease outbreaks and develop prevention strategies, improved detection methods are required that are sensitive, convenient and rapid. In this study, a pair of specific primers based on the C. irritans 18S rRNA gene was developed and used in a real‐time PCR (qPCR) assay. This assay was able to detect five theronts in 1 L of natural seawater. Furthermore, a linear model was established to analyse the log of Ct value and parasite abundance in seawater (y = –2.9623x + 24.2930), and the coefficient of determination (R2) value was 0.979. A lysis buffer was optimized for theront DNA extraction and used for storage sample. This method was superior to the commercial water DNA kit, and there was no significant degradation of DNA at room temperature for 24–96 hr. A dilution method was developed to manage qPCR inhibitors and used to investigate natural seawater samples in a net cage farm with diseased fish, and the findings were consistent with the actual situation. This study provides a valuable tool for assisting in the early monitoring and control of cryptocaryoniasis in aquaculture.
Reply to: Comment on: Clinical benefits of empagliflozin in very old patients with type 2 diabetes hospitalized for acute heart failure
Authors: Pérez‐Belmonte Luis M. , Miramontes‐González José P. , Osuna‐Sánchez Julio , Lara José P. , Gómez‐Huelgas Ricardo
Published: February 2022

This letter comments on the letter by Rashad Ismayilov.
Effectiveness of mobile applications for patients with severe mental illness: A meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Kim Sun Kyung , Lee Mihyun , Jeong Hyun , Jang Young Mi
Published: February 2022

Background

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of mobile applications used by patients diagnosed with mental disorders.

Methods

An electronic literature search in five databases including PubMed, Embase, the Cochrane Library, CINAHL, and PsychInfo was conducted. The keywords used were “mental disorder,” “mental illness,” “mobile phone,” “smartphone,” “mHealth,” “application,” and “app”. The search was restricted to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) written in English and Korean.

Results

Fourteen RCTs, involving 1307 patients diagnosed with depression, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder were included in the analysis. The included studies were published between 2012 and 2020 and used mobile applications. The risk of bias tool was used to assess methodological quality and the overall risk of bias of the included studies was moderate. The pooled data favored mobile application interventions in reducing the disease‐related symptoms of depression (standardized mean difference [SMD] = −0.255, 95% CI: −0.370 to −0.141), mania symptoms (SMD = −0.279, 95% CI: −0.456 to −0.102), and positive (SMD = −0.205, 95% CI: −0.388 to −0.022) and negative psychotic symptoms (SMD = −0.406, 95% CI: −0.791 to −0.020). In subgroup analysis, the incorporation of feedback, notification, and data tracking features in the mobile application intervention produced better outcomes.

Conclusion

This review provided evidence that mobile applications could well‐assist patients diagnosed with mental disorders. Greater benefits could be achieved by well‐designed interventions incorporating strategies with thoughtful consideration of the disease characteristics. Mobile applications present the potential to be effective supplements to clinical treatment.
Depressive symptoms and stress among nurses in the COVID unit: A 7‐month cohort study
Authors: Tsubono Kenjiro , Ikeda Chikako
Published: February 2022

Aim

Previous studies have reported high prevalence of depression and anxiety symptoms among frontline nurses caring for COVID‐19 patients. Yet, only a limited number of prospective studies examining nurses' mental health problems have been performed. The present study aimed to examine depressive symptoms and COVID‐19‐related stresses among nurses working specifically in a hospital COVID unit over a 7‐month period.

Methods

In this study, depressive symptoms and COVID‐19‐related stresses of a total of 28 nurses who worked in the COVID unit were assessed using the Quick Inventory of Depressive Symptom (QIDS) and the Tokyo Metropolitan Distress Scale for Pandemic (TMDP) over the 7‐month period from December 2020 to June 2021.

Results

The mean QIDS scores in all participants fluctuated during the study period, showing a high correlation with the reported number of new COVID‐19 cases in the region. The mean TMDP scores showed a gradual decline over the period. Scores on the social stress factor of the TMDP demonstrated a statistically significant correlation with the QIDS scores.

Conclusions

The results indicate that the number of new COVID‐19 patients in the region is associated with depressive symptoms among nurses in the hospital COVID unit. Scores on the social stress factor in the TMDP are also correlated with depressive symptoms among nurses.
Aesthetic implications of depressor supercilii muscle block with botulinum toxin type A
Authors: Domínguez‐Duarte Angélica
Published: February 2022

Introduction

When applying botulinum toxin in the upper third of the face, it is important to consider the balance between the elevator and depressor muscles of the eyebrows. Depressor supercilii muscle block leads to elevation of the medial portion of the eyebrow and correction of the oblique lines in the frown.

Objectives

The intention is to highlight the importance of the depressor supercilii muscle block as a useful tool to reposition the medial portion of the eyebrow.

Patients and methods

Three cases are presented, in whom botulinum toxin is applied conventionally and subsequently on the depressor supercilii muscle after the subjective sensation of flattening of the glabella and increasing distance between the eyebrows referred by the patients.

Results

The application of botulinum toxin type A on the depressor supercilii muscle is an effective measure to facilitate the elevation of the medial portion of the eyebrow, after the conventional application in between the eyebrows treating the orbicularis, corrugator, and procerus muscles.

Conclusions

Depressor supercilii muscle block can be considered when applying botulinum toxin type A in the upper third of the face, in cases where there is loss of facial aesthetic harmony. This is given by the subjective perspective of the patient due to a change in the natural expression of their face with a sensation of flattening of the glabella and distancing of the medial portion of the eyebrows, occurring after the use of a conventional technique at that anatomical level, where patients may report a “feline” or “avatar” appearance.
How do people living with chronic conditions and their informal caregivers experience primary care? A phenomenological‐hermeneutical study
Authors: Boeykens Dagje , Sirimsi Muhammed Mustafa , Timmermans Lotte , Hartmann Maja Lopez , Anthierens Sibyl , De Loof Hans , De Vliegher Kristel , Foulon Veerle , Huybrechts Ine , Lahousse Lies , Pype Peter , Schoenmakers Birgitte , Van Bogaert Peter , Van den Broeck Kris , Van Hecke Ann , Verhaeghe Nick , Vermandere Mieke , Verté Emily , Van de Velde Dominique , De Vriendt Patricia ,   the Primary Care Academy
Published: February 2022

Aims and objectives

Gaining insight in how people living with chronic conditions experience primary healthcare within their informal network.

Background

The primary healthcare system is challenged by the increasing number of people living with chronic conditions. To strengthen chronic care management, literature and policy plans point to a person‐centred approach of care (PCC). A first step to identify an appropriate strategy to implement PCC is to gain more insight into the care experiences of these people and their informal caregivers.

Design

A phenomenological‐hermeneutical philosophy is used. The study is in line with the Consolidated Criteria for Reporting Qualitative Research Guidelines (COREQ).

Method

In‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with people living with chronic conditions and informal caregiver dyads (PCDs) (n = 16; 32 individuals) were conducted. An open‐ended interview guide was used to elaborate on the PCDs' experiences regarding primary care. A purposive, maximal variation sampling was applied to recruit the participants.

Results

Based on sixteen PCDs' reflections, ten themes were identified presenting their experiences with primary care and described quality care as listening and giving attention to what people with chronic conditions want, to what they strive for, and above all to promote their autonomy in a context wherein they are supported by a team of formal caregivers, family and friends.

Conclusion

To meet the PCDs' needs, self‐management should be addressed in an interprofessional environment in which the PCD is an important partner. The findings may facilitate a shift to encourage PCDs in their strengths by enabling them to share their personal goals and by working towards meaningful activities in team collaboration.

Relevance to clinical practice

Three strategies—self‐management support, goal‐oriented care, and interprofessional collaboration—have been suggested to improve the PCDs' primary care experiences. These strategies could guide nursing practice in using more and improve high‐quality nursing care.
A case of two ovarian tissue transplantations that led to a biochemical pregnancy in Japan
Authors: Sako Yusuke , Akitani Fumi , Shiota Kyoko , Momoeda Mikio
Published: February 2022

Ovarian tissue cryopreservation (OTC) and ovarian tissue transplantation (OTT) are fertility preservation options for prepubertal girls or those in whom cancer treatment cannot be delayed. They are important to increasing number of cancer survivors, but there are very few reports on this topic in Japan. This is the first report of a biochemical pregnancy after OTT in Japan. An 18‐year‐old woman, diagnosed with Ewing sarcoma of the seventh thoracic vertebra, underwent tumor resection. OTC was performed before postoperative chemotherapy. After 7 years, she decided to undergo OTT following the diagnosis of chemotherapy‐induced premature ovarian insufficiency. On postoperative day 104, ovarian stimulation was started, yielding one embryo after 3 days. Embryo transfer was performed during a hormone replacement cycle. At 6 weeks and 1 day, the human chorionic gonadotropin level was 81.5 mIU/mL; however, no gestational sac was observed on ultrasonography, indicating a biochemical pregnancy. Our data will be useful for the further development of fertility preservation options in Japan in the future.
Reverse Knowledge Flows: How and When Do Preparation and Reintegration Facilitate Repatriate Knowledge Transfer?
Authors: Peltokorpi Vesa , Froese Fabian Jintae , Reiche B. Sebastian , Klar Sebastian
Published: February 2022

This paper applies a generalized exchange perspective to examine how and when reintegration in headquarters (HQ) facilitates repatriate knowledge transfer (RKT). Specifically, we theorize how the preparatory stage for repatriation – when expatriates are still abroad – enhances reintegration in HQ upon repatriation and subsequently RKT via interpersonal and career‐related pathways. For the former, we hypothesize that communication frequency with HQ actors before re‐entry enhances RKT via reintegration. We also hypothesize that communication frequency with HQ actors before re‐entry improves trust in HQ actors, which, in turn, strengthens the positive effect of reintegration on RKT. For the second pathway, we hypothesize that career and repatriate support before re‐entry increases RKT via reintegration. We also hypothesize that career and repatriate support before re‐entry enhances career satisfaction upon re‐entry, which, in turn, strengthens the positive effect of reintegration on RKT. Time‐lagged data from 129 assignees and their HQ supervisors support most of our hypotheses.