bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lattice dynamics and thermoelectric properties of diamondoid materials
Authors: Xie Hongyao , Zhao Li‐Dong , Kanatzidis Mercouri G.
Published: January 2024

The diamondoid compounds are a large family of important semiconductors, which possess various unique transport properties and had been widely investigated in the fields of photoelectricity and nonlinear optics. For a significantly long period of time, diamondoid materials were not given much attention in the field of thermoelectricity. However, this changed when a series of diamondoid compounds showed a thermoelectric figure of merit (ZT) greater than 1.0. This discovery sparked considerable interest in further exploring the thermoelectric properties of diamondoid materials. This review aims to provide a comprehensive view of our current understanding of thermal and electronic transport in diamondoid materials and stimulate their development in thermoelectric applications. We present a collection of recent discoveries concerning the lattice dynamics and electronic structure of diamondoid materials. We review the underlying physics responsible for their unique electrical and phonon transport behaviors. Moreover, we provide insights into the advancements made in the field of thermoelectricity for diamondoid materials and the corresponding strategies employed to optimize their performance. Lastly, we emphasize the challenges that lie ahead and outline potential avenues for future research in the domain of diamondoid thermoelectric materials.
Association of polymorphism of IL‐17A, IL‐17F, and IL‐6 with Toxoplasma gondii infection susceptibility in HIV/AIDS patients in Shiraz, southern Iran
Authors: Nejabat Maryam , Heydari Mohammadreza , Motamedifar Mohammad , Foroozanfar Zohre , Fard Saeid Amirizadeh , Hashempour Ava , Nazari Nazani , Rezaei Esmaeil , Heydari Zahra
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Toxoplasma gondii infection is considered as one of the most important opportunistic infections and cause of death in HIV patients.

Methods

In this cross‐sectional study, 334 HIV positive patients were included. The molecular test was performed by the restriction fragment length polymorphism–polymerase chain reaction method. Allelic frequency, haplotype analyses, and linkage disequilibrium were calculated. The odds ratio was calculated. The linear regression model was used to analysis of interleukin (IL)‐17A, IL‐17F, and IL‐6 single‐nucleotide polymorphism genotypes in HIV patients with and without toxoplasmosis.

Results

In total, 95 tested'patients (28.4%) were positive for toxoplasmosis. The risk of toxoplasma infection in the current study did not correlate with IL‐17 and IL‐6 polymorphism and the risk of contracting toxoplasma was also not significantly correlated in this study. There was no association between the frequency of alleles and the risk of toxoplasma infection in IL‐17 haplotype analysis.

Conclusion

The findings of this study revealed that there were significant differences in the serum levels of IL‐6 and IL‐17A, but not IL‐17F, between the case and control groups in various genetic models. However, these polymorphisms did not show a significant relationship with toxoplasma infection in HIV‐positive patients. This study represents the first investigation in Iran to explore the role of IL‐6 and IL‐17 polymorphisms in toxoplasma infection among HIV‐positive patients.
Human chorionic gonadotrophin indirectly activates peripheral γδT cells to produce interleukin‐10 during early pregnancy
Authors: Li Liman , Liu Yuan , Zhou Wenjie , Yang Chuan , Feng Ting , Li Hong
Published: January 2024

Backgrounds

The immunomodulatory properties of human chorionic gonadotrophin (hCG) have been identified to be critical for successful pregnancy. However, the effects of hCG on peripheral γδT cells during early pregnancy have not been reported previously.

Methods

We cocultured the purified γδT cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) with early pregnancy‐relevant hCG concentrations and investigated the changes in the immune functional characteristics of γδT cells via flow cytometry assays.

Results

The ratios of CD69+ and IL‐10+ γδT cells were increased in early pregnant women compared to nonpregnant women. γδT cells expressed low levels of the mannose receptor (CD206) instead of the classical hCG/LH receptor for hCG. The direct treatment of purified γδT cells with early pregnancy‐relevant hCG concentrations may have no significant effects on their immune functions. Interestingly, when PBMCs were treated with the same broad range of hCG concentrations, the ratios of CD69+ and IL‐10+ γδT cells to total γδT cells were significantly increased.

Conclusion

Certain early pregnancy‐relevant hCG concentrations could enhance the ratios of peripheral CD69+ and IL‐10+ γδT cells, contributing to the activation of γδT cells and immunological tolerance during early pregnancy. However, these affects may not be strongly mediated by direct ligand–receptor interactions and they may highly depend on immune microenvironment. Our novel observations propose a perspective into the endocrine‐immune dialog that exists between the fetus and maternal immune cells.
Interaction between long noncoding RNA and microRNA in lung inflammatory diseases
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Huang Shengyu , Shi Liangliang , Chen Guochang , Liu Xiaoxiao , Liu Mingzhuo , Guo Guanghua
Published: January 2024

Background

Non‐coding RNAs (ncRNAs) are a group of RNAs that cannot synthesize proteins, but are critical in gene expression regulation. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) and microRNAs (miRNAs), the two major family members, are intimately involved in controlling immune response, cell proliferation, apoptosis, differentiation and polarization, and cytokine secretion. Their interactions significantly influence lung inflammatory diseases and could be potential therapeutic targets.

Objectives

The review aims to elucidate the role of ncRNAs, especially the interactions between lncRNA and miRNA in lung diseases, including acute and chronic lung inflammatory diseases, as well as lung cancer. And provide novel insights into disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic methods.

Methods

We conducted a comprehensive review of the latest studies on lncRNA and miRNA in lung inflammatory diseases. Our research involved searching through electronic databases like PubMed, Web of Science, and Scopus.

Results

We explain the fundamental characteristics and functions of miRNA and lncRNA, their potential interaction mechanisms, and summarize the newly explorations on the role of lncRNA and miRNA interactions in lung inflammatory diseases.

Conclusions

Numerous lncRNAs and miRNAs have been found to partipicate in all stages of lung inflammatory diseases. While ncRNA‐based therapies have been validated and developed, there remain challenges in developing more stable and effective drugs for clinical use.
The effect of COVID‐19 and COVID‐19 vaccination on serum anti‐Mullerian hormone: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ghaemi Marjan , Hantoushzadeh Sedigheh , Shafiee Arman , Gargari Omid Kohandel , Fathi Hanieh , Eshraghi Nasim , Razavi Jafar , Habibi Gholam Reza , Jafarabady Kyana
Published: January 2024

Objective

The current study aims to evaluate the impact of COVID‐19 infection and vaccination on ovarian reserve by detecting the anti‐Mullerian hormone (AMH) level.

Method

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Scopus has been searched for studies assessing the effect of COVID‐19 infection and/or vaccination on AMH levels up to February 27, 2023. Based on PRISMA 2020 statement criteria, a systematic review and meta‐analysis of included studies were performed. The studies' quality was assessed by the National Institute of Health (NIH) quality assessment tool. The standardized mean difference (MD) of the AMH level was used and the quantitative values of each study were pooled separately by using a random effect model.

Results

Out of 246 studies screened, 18 were included in the systematic review and 14 in the meta‐analysis. Included studies were published between 2021 and 2022 and were conducted in different countries, including the USA (n = 3), China (n = 2), Russia (n = 2), Turkey (n = 5), Israel (n = 3), Czech (n = 2), and Spain (n = 1). Eight studies investigated the effect of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection on AMH levels, and ten studies investigated the possible effect of COVID‐19 vaccination on AMH levels. The pooled analysis showed a statistically significant decrease in AMH levels after COVID‐19 infection (SMD: −0.24; 95% CI: −0.36 to −0.11; I2 = 0%; p = .0003). Vaccination analysis showed a nonstatistically significant change in AMH levels after COVID‐19 vaccination (SMD: −0.11; 95% CI: −0.25 to 0.04; I2 = 35%; p = .14).

Conclusion

COVID‐19 infection can result in ovarian reserve injury by reducing the AMH level but getting vaccinated against COVID‐19 has no impact on the AMH level.
Human umbilical cord mesenchymal stem cells improve disease characterization of Sjogren's syndrome in NOD mice through regulation of gut microbiota and Treg/Th17 cellular immunity
Authors: Zou Yao , Xiao Wei , Liu Dongzhou , Li Xianyao , Li Lihua , Peng Lijuan , Xiong Ying , Gan Haina , Ren Xiang
Published: January 2024

Background

For the unclear pathogenesis of Sjogren's syndrome (SS), further exploration is necessary. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) and derived exosomes (MSCs‐exo) have exhibited promising results in treating SS.

Object

This study aimed to investigate the effect and mechanism of human umbilical cord MSCs (UC‐MSCs) on SS.

Methods

Nonobese Diabetic (NOD) mouse splenic T cells were co‐cultured with UC‐MSCs and UC‐MSCs‐exo, and interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ), interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐10, prostaglandin E2 (PGE2), and transforming growth factor‐β1 (TGF‐β1) levels in the supernatant were assessed by quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction and enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. Co‐cultured T cells were injected into NOD mice via the tail vein. The inflammatory cell infiltration in the intestine and the submandibular gland was characterized by hematoxylin‐eosin staining. Treg/Th17 homeostasis within the spleen was determined by flow cytometry. Gut microbiota was detected by 16S rRNA sequencing, and the relationship between differential microbiota and Treg/Th17 cytokines was analyzed by the Pearson correlation coefficient.

Results

UC‐MSCs, UC‐MSCs‐exo, and NOD mouse splenic T cells were successfully cultured and identified. After T cells were co‐cultured with UC‐MSCs and UC‐MSCs‐exo, both IFN‐γ and IL‐6 were decreased while IL‐10, PGE2, and TGF‐β1 were increased in transcriptional and translational levels. UC‐MSCs and UC‐MSCs‐exo partially restored salivary secretion function, reduced Ro/SSA antibody and α‐Fodrin immunoglobulin A levels, reduced inflammatory cell infiltration in the intestine and submandibular gland, raised proportion of Treg cells, decreased IFN‐γ, IL‐6, IL‐2, IL‐17, lipopolysaccharide, and tumor necrosis factor‐alpha levels, and raised IL‐10, Foxp3, and TGF‐β1 levels by affecting co‐cultured T cells. The intervention of UC‐MSCs and UC‐MSCs‐exo improved intestinal homeostasis in NOD mice by increasing microbiota diversity and richness. Additionally, differential microbiota was significantly associated with Treg/Th17 cytokine levels.

Conclusion

Human UC‐MSCs and UC‐MSCs‐exo improved disease characterization of SS in NOD mice through regulation of gut microbiota and Treg/Th17 cellular immunity.
Clinical features of macrophage activation syndrome in adult dermatomyositis: A single‐center retrospective case‐control study
Authors: Zhu Dingxian , Ying Shuni , Yang Changyi , Li Sheng , Tang Shunli , Sun Chuanyin , Fang Hong , Qiao Jianjun
Published: January 2024

Background

Little is known about the features of macrophage activation syndrome (MAS) in dermatomyositis, especially the association between rapidly progressive interstitial lung disease (RP‐ILD) and MAS.

Objective

To determine the characteristics of MAS in patients with dermatomyositis and their association with RP‐ILD.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of 201 dermatomyositis patients at the First Affiliated Hospital of Zhejiang University over a 10‐year period.

Results

A total of 22 (10.9%) patients were diagnosed with MAS. The rate of RP‐ILD was significantly higher in patients with MAS than in those without MAS (81.8% vs. 17.4%, respectively, p < .001). Multivariate analysis indicated that RP‐ILD (p = .019), ferritin level > 1685 ng/mL (p = .007) and hemoglobin < 100 g/L (p = .001) were independent risk factors for MAS. Furthermore, RP‐ILD patients with MAS presented more cardiac injury (50.0% vs. 13.3%, respectively, p < .009), central nervous system dysfunction (42.8% vs. 3.4%, respectively, p < .001) and hemorrhage (38.9% vs. 3.3%, respectively, p = .003) than RP‐ILD patients without MAS. The 90‐day cumulative survival rate for patients with MAS was significantly lower than for those without MAS (18.2% vs. 82.1%, respectively, p < .001).

Conclusion

MAS was a common and fatal complication of dermatomyositis in our cohort. MAS is closely related to RP‐ILD in patients with dermatomyositis. When RP‐ILD is present in dermatomyositis patients with abnormal laboratory findings, such as cytopenia and hyperferritinemia, the presence of MAS should be considered.
The role of autophagy in SIM mediated anti‐inflammatory osteoclastogenesis through NLRP3 signaling pathway
Authors: Cheng Yuting , Jin Wenjun , Zheng Lin , Huang Xiaolin , Luo Shanshan , Hong Wei , Liao Jian , Samruajbenjakun Bancha , Leethanakul Chidchanok
Published: January 2024

Background

Inflammatory bone resorption is a prominent risk factor for implantation failure. Simvastatin (SIM) has anti‐inflammatory effects independent of cholesterol lowering and reduces osteoclastogenesis by decreasing both the number and activity of osteoclasts. However, the specific mechanism of inflammatory bone loss alleviation by SIM remains to be elucidated. We hypothesized that SIM relieves inflammatory bone loss by modulating autophagy and suppressing the NOD‐like receptor family pyrin domain‐containing protein 3 (NLRP3) signaling pathway.

Methods and results

RAW264.7 cells were stimulated by lipopolysaccharide (LPS) after being pretreated with various concentrations of SIM. Osteoclast (OC) differentiation, formation and activity were evaluated by tartrate‐resistant acid phosphatase staining, F‐actin ring staining and bone resorption pit assays, respectively. We observed autophagosomes by transmission electron microscopy. Then NLRP3 inhibitor MCC950 was used to further explore the corresponding molecular mechanism underlying anti‑inflammatory bone resorption, the expression of autophagy‐related proteins and NLRP3 signaling pathway factors in pre‐OCs were evaluated by western blot analysis, and the expression of OC‑specific molecules was analyzed using reverse transcription‑quantitative polymerase chain reaction. The results showed that SIM decreased the expression of tumor necrosis factor‐α, whereas increased Interleukin‐10. In addition, SIM inhibited LPS‐induced OC differentiation, formation, bone resorption activity, the level of autophagosomes, and OC‑specific markers. Furthermore, SIM significantly suppressed autophagy by downregulating LC3II, Beclin1, ATG7, and NLRP3‐related proteins expression while upregulating P62 under inflammatory conditions.

Conclusions

SIM may reduce autophagy secretion to attenuate LPS‐induced osteoclastogenesis and the NLRP3 signaling pathway participates in this process, thus providing theoretical basis for the application of this drug in peri‐implantitis.
Cultural values, parenting and child adjustment in Sweden
Authors: Gurdal Sevtap , Sorbring Emma
Published: January 2024

To examine whether mothers' and fathers' individualism, collectivism and conformity values are significantly related to parenting behaviours and child adjustment during middle childhood, mothers (n = 95), fathers (n = 72) and children (n = 98) in Sweden were interviewed when children were, on average, 10 years old. Mothers' collectivism was significantly correlated with mothers' and fathers' higher expectations for children's family obligations. Fathers' collectivism was significantly correlated with mothers' and fathers' higher warmth and with fathers' higher expectations for children's family obligations. Fathers' conformity values were significantly correlated with fewer child internalising problems. Fathers' higher collectivism was associated with more paternal warmth even after taking into account the other cultural values, child gender and fathers' education. Our findings indicate that individual‐level cultural values are correlated with some aspects of parenting and child adjustment in Sweden.
Interpersonal school violence and mother–child communication about violence in relation to empathy in early adolescence
Authors: Goering Marlon , Espinoza Carlos N. , Mrug Sylvie
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Exposure to interpersonal violence at school has been linked with lower empathy, but less is known about factors that may moderate this relationship. Positive parent–child communication has been associated with higher empathy during adolescence and children of parents that communicate their disapproval of violent behavior respond more peacefully in situations involving violence. Mother–child communication about violence may therefore reduce the risk of desensitization to violent behavior and promote empathy in youth that are frequently exposed to violence. Thus, this study examines whether mother–child communication about violence mitigates the association between exposure to interpersonal school violence and adolescents' empathy.

Methods

This study addressed this question using a diverse sample of early adolescents from the Southeastern United States in 2003 (N = 642; mean age 11.3 years; 52% male; 76% Black, 22% non‐Hispanic White). Adolescents reported on how often they witness or experience interpersonal violence at school and how often they communicate with their mother about violence and how to avoid it. Adolescents also self‐reported on their level of empathy.

Results

Results from a hierarchical regression model showed that exposure to interpersonal school violence and lower mother–child communication about violence were uniquely associated with lower empathy, but communication about violence did not moderate the link between interpersonal school violence exposure and empathy. There were no sex differences in these relationships.

Conclusions

Contrary to the hypothesis, youth who experience and witness interpersonal violence at school show lower empathy independent of whether youth communicate with their mother about violence and responding to violent situations.
LGBTQ+ related curricular activities in Brazilian Dental Schools: Do institutional and/or deans’ profiles matter?
Authors: Almeida Luiz E. , de Oliveira Valéria , Mialhe Fábio L.
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The aim of this cross‐sectional study was to investigate whether the characteristics of dental schools and the profiles of their deans were associated with curricular activities related to LGBTQ+ in Brazilian dental schools.

Methods

A survey was mailed to the deans of all Brazilian dental schools for the purpose of assessing the development of pedagogical activities focused on the topic of oral health of the LGBTQ+ population, and the characteristics of the institutions and profiles of their deans. The data collected were analyzed with hierarchical multiple logistic regression models in order to analyze associations between variables of interest.

Results

Of the deans approached, 156 (response rate of approximately 32.4%) completed and returned the survey. The majority of dental schools (67.3%) of the sample were private institutions and 39% of them developed pedagogical activities directed toward the LGBTQ+. This percentage was much lower in public institutions (18%). The results of the hierarchical multiple logistic regression demonstrated that deans who attributed high relevance to the theme “oral health of the LGBTQ+ population” were more likely to develop pedagogical activities directed toward the LGBTQ+ population (odds ratio = 4.74; 95% confidence interval: 1.65–13.48), than those who attributed low or little importance to this topic (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

A low percentage of activities aimed at the LGBTQ+ population was observed in the sample of Brazilian dental schools. Deans must be aware of the importance of the topic and be motivated to implement pedagogical activities for this population.
Prognostic value of postinduction medullary myeloid recovery by flow cytometry in acute myeloid leukemia
Authors: Row Céline , Lechevalier Nicolas , Vial Jean Philippe , Mimoun Aguirre , Bastie Jean Noel , Lafon Ingrid , Pigneux Arnaud , Leguay Thibaut , Callanan Mary , Maynadie Marc , Béné Marie C. , Dumas Pierre Yves , Guy Julien
Published: January 2024

Risk stratification and treatment response evaluation are key features in acute myeloid leukemia (AML) management. Immunophenotypic and molecular approaches all rely on the detection of persisting leukemic cells by measurable residual disease techniques. A new approach is proposed here by assessing medullary myeloid maturation by flow cytometry through a myeloid progenitor ratio (MPR). The normal MPR range was defined using reference normal bone marrows (n = 48). MPR was considered balanced if between 1 and 4 and unbalanced if < 1 or > 4. MPR was retrospectively assessed at baseline and post‐induction for 206 newly diagnosed AML patients eligible for intensive treatment from two different French centers. All AML baseline MPR were unbalanced and thus significantly different from normal MPR (p < 0.0001). Patients with an unbalanced MPR after induction had worse 3‐year overall survival (OS) (44.4% vs. 80.2%, HR, 2.96; 95% CI, 1.81–4.84, p < 0.0001) and 3‐year relapse free survival (RFS) (38.7% vs. 64.4%, HR, 2.11; 95% CI, 1.39–3.18, p < 0.001). In multivariate analysis, postinduction unbalanced MPR was significantly associated with shorter OS and RFS regardless of the European LeukemiaNet 2010 risk stratification or NPM1/FLT3‐ITD status. A balanced postinduction MPR conversely conferred favorable outcomes and reflects medullary myeloid recovery.
Epidemiological characteristics of respiratory syncytial virus infection in pediatric patients before, during the COVID‐19 pandemic and after easing of COVID‐19 restrictive measures in China
Authors: Hu Lidan , Yang Yang , Lin Jianyu , Yan Qingtao , Sun Changxuan , Li Ziqiao , Sun Lidan , Xu Jingfang , Chen Jie , Bai Guannan
Published: January 2024

We aimed to assess the epidemiological characteristics of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection in Chinese children at different phases of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, that is, before, during the pandemic and after easing of restrictive measures. We included 123 623 patients aged 0–18 years with respiratory infection symptoms who were suspected with RSV infection from January 1, 2019 to June 30, 2023 in Hangzhou Children's Hospital. Clinical information and RSV test result were extracted from the laboratory information system. We calculated the positive rate of RSV detection by age groups, gender, seasons, types of patients and phases of COVID‐19 pandemic. Nonlinear associations between age and risk of RSV infection in three phases of pandemic were assessed by restricted cubic spline regression models. Among 123 623 patients, 3875 (3.13%) were tested as positive. The highest positive rate was observed in children aged 0–28 days (i.e., 12.28%). RSV infection was most prevalent in winter (6.04%), and followed by autumn (2.52%). Although there is no statistical significance regarding the positive rate at three phases of the pandemic, we observed that the rate was lowest during the pandemic and increased after easing the measures in certain age groups (p < 0.05), which was consisted with results from the nonlinear regression analyses. In addition, regression analyses suggested that the age range of children susceptible to RSV got wider, that is, 0–3.5 years, after easing all restrictive measures compared with that before (i.e., 0–3 years) and during the pandemic (i.e., 0–1 year). Based on our findings, we called for attention from health professionals and caregivers on the new epidemiological characteristics of RSV infection in the post‐pandemic era after easing the restrictive measures.
The Language of Creativity: Evidence from Humans and Large Language Models
Authors: Orwig William , Edenbaum Emma R. , Greene Joshua D. , Schacter Daniel L.
Published: January 2024

Recent developments in computerized scoring via semantic distance have provided automated assessments of verbal creativity. Here, we extend past work, applying computational linguistic approaches to characterize salient features of creative text. We hypothesize that, in addition to semantic diversity, the degree to which a story includes perceptual details, thus transporting the reader to another time and place, would be predictive of creativity. Additionally, we explore the use of generative language models to supplement human data collection and examine the extent to which machine‐generated stories can mimic human creativity. We collect 600 short stories from human participants and GPT‐3, subsequently randomized and assessed on their creative quality. Results indicate that the presence of perceptual details, in conjunction with semantic diversity, is highly predictive of creativity. These results were replicated in an independent sample of stories (n = 120) generated by GPT‐4. We do not observe a significant difference between human and AI‐generated stories in terms of creativity ratings, and we also observe positive correlations between human and AI assessments of creativity. Implications and future directions are discussed.
Risk indicators for gingival recession in the esthetic zone: A cross‐sectional clinical, tomographic, and ultrasonographic study
Authors: Mascardo Kathleen Chloe , Tomack Justin , Chen Chia‐Yu , Mancini Leonardo , Kim David M. , Friedland Bernard , Barootchi Shayan , Tavelli Lorenzo
Published: January 2024

Background

To evaluate the risk indicators associated with midfacial gingival recessions (GR) in the natural dentition esthetic regions.

Methods

Cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) results of thirty‐seven subjects presenting with 268 eligible teeth were included in the cross‐sectional study. Clinical measurements included presence/absence of midfacial GR; the depth of the midfacial, mesial, and distal gingival recession; the recession type (RT); keratinized tissue width (KT); and attached gingiva width (AG). Questionnaires were utilized to capture patient‐reported esthetics and dental hypersensitivity for each study tooth. Buccal bone dehiscence (cBBD) and buccal bone thickness (cBBT) were measured on the CBCT scans. High‐frequency ultrasonography was performed to assess gingival thickness (GT) and buccal bone dehiscence (uBBD). Intraoral optical scanning was obtained to quantify the buccolingual position of each study site (3D profile analysis). Multilevel logistic regression analyses with generalized estimation equations were performed to assess the factors associated with the conditions of interest.

Results

The presence of midfacial GR was significantly associated with the history of periodontal treatment for pocket reduction (OR 7.99, p = 0.006), KT (OR 0.62, p < 0.001), cBBD (OR 2.30, p = 0.015), GT 1.5 mm from the gingival margin (OR 0.18, p = 0.04) and 3D profile 1 mm from the gingival margin (OR 1.04, p = 0.001). The depth of midfacial GR was significantly correlated to previous history of periodontal treatment (OR 0.96, p = 0.001), KT (OR −0.18, p < 0.001), presence of bone fenestration (OR 0.24, p = 0.044), and cBBD (OR 0.43, p < 0.001). The depth of midfacial GR was also the only factor associated with patient‐reported esthetics (OR −3.38, p = 0.022), while KT (OR 0.77, p = 0.018) and AG (OR 0.82, p = 0.047) were significantly correlated with patient‐reported dental hypersensitivity.

Conclusions

Several risk indicators of midfacial and interproximal GR in the esthetic region were identified. The use of imaging technologies allowed for detection of parameters associated with the conditions of interest, and, therefore, their incorporation in future clinical studies is advocated. Ultrasonography could be preferred over CBCT for a noninvasive assessment of periodontal phenotype.
Characterization of natural killer and cytotoxic T‐cell immune infiltrates in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Persky Julia , Cruz Sylvia M. , Darrow Morgan A. , Judge Sean J. , Li Yueju , Bold Richard J. , Karnezis Anthony N. , Matsukuma Karen E. , Qi Lihong , Canter Robert J.
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) is an aggressive cancer with poor response to systemic therapies, including immunotherapy. Given the immunotherapeutic potential of natural killer (NK) cells, we evaluated intratumoral NK cell infiltrates along with cytotoxic T cells in PDAC to determine their association with patient outcomes.

Methods

We analyzed tumors from 93 PDAC patients treated from 2012 to 2020. Predictor variables included tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes (TILs), T‐cell markers (CD3, CD8, CD45RO), NK marker (NKp46), and NK inhibitory marker (major histocompatibility complex class I [MHC‐I]) by immunohistochemistry. Primary outcome variables were recurrence‐free survival (RFS) and overall survival (OS).

Results

Mean TILs, CD3, and NKp46 scores were 1.3 ± 0.63, 20.6 ± 17.5, and 3.1 ± 3.9, respectively. Higher expression of CD3 and CD8 was associated with higher OS, whereas NK cell infiltration was not associated with either RFS or OS. There was a tight positive correlation between MHC‐I expression and all T‐cell markers, but not with NKp46.

Conclusions

Overall NK cell infiltrates were low in PDAC and did not predict clinical outcomes, whereas T‐cell infiltrates did. Further characterization of the immune infiltrate in PDAC, including inhibitory signals and suppressive cell types, may yield better biomarkers of prognosis and immune targeting in this refractory disease.
Soybean Oil‐Based 3D Printed Mesh Designed for Guided Bone Regeneration (GBR) in Oral Surgery
Authors: Bragaglia Mario , Sciarretta Francesca , Filetici Pierfrancesco , Lettieri‐Barbato Daniele , Dassatti Leonardo , Nicoletti Fabrizio , Sibilia Diego , Aquilano Katia , Nanni Francesca
Published: January 2024

This study aims to obtain a cyto‐compatible 3D printable bio‐resin for the manufacturing of meshes designed from acquired real patients’ bone defect to be used in future for guided bone regeneration (GBR), achieving the goal of personalized medicine, decreasing surgical, recovery time, and patient discomfort. To this purpose, a biobased, biocompatible, and photo‐curable resin made of acrylated epoxidized soybean oil (AESO) diluted with soybean oil (SO) is developed and 3D printed using a commercial digital light processing (DLP) 3D printer. 3D printed samples show good thermal properties, allowing for thermally‐based sterilization process and mechanical properties typical of crosslinked natural oils (i.e., E = 12 MPa, UTS = 1.5 MPa), suitable for the GBR application in the oral surgery. The AESO‐SO bio‐resin proves to be cytocompatible, allowing for fibroblast cells proliferation (viability at 72 h > 97%), without inducing severe inflammatory response when co‐cultured with macrophages, as demonstrated by cytokine antibody arrays, that is anyway resolved in the first 24 h. Moreover, accelerated degradation tests prove that the bio‐resin is biodegradable in hydrolytic environments.
ABHD6 suppresses colorectal cancer progression via AKT signaling pathway
Authors: Xiong Xiaoyu , Yang Changjiang , Jin Yiteng , Zhang Rui , Wang Shuo , Gan Lin , Hou Sen , Bao Yudi , Zeng Zexian , Ye Yingjiang , Gao Zhidong
Published: January 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) continues to be a prevalent malignancy, posing a significant risk to human health. The involvement of alpha/beta hydrolase domain 6 (ABHD6), a serine hydrolase family member, in CRC development was suggested by our analysis of clinical data. However, the role of ABHD6 in CRC remains unclear. This study seeks to elucidate the clinical relevance, biological function, and potential molecular mechanisms of ABHD6 in CRC. We investigated the role of ABHD6 in clinical settings, conducting proliferation, migration, and cell cycle assays. To determine the influence of ABHD6 expression levels on Oxaliplatin sensitivity, we also performed apoptosis assays. RNA sequencing and KEGG analysis were utilized to uncover the potential molecular mechanisms of ABHD6. Furthermore, we validated its expression levels using Western blot and reactive oxygen species (ROS) detection assays. Our results demonstrated that ABHD6 expression in CRC tissues was notably lower compared to adjacent normal tissues. This low expression correlated with a poorer prognosis for CRC patients. Moreover, ABHD6 overexpression impeded CRC cell proliferation and migration while inducing G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. In vivo experiments revealed that downregulation of ABHD6 resulted in an increase in tumor weight and volume. Mechanistically, ABHD6 overexpression inhibited the activation of the AKT signaling pathway and decreased ROS levels in CRC cells, suggesting the role of ABHD6 in CRC progression via the AKT signaling pathway. Our findings demonstrate that ABHD6 functions as a tumor suppressor, primarily by inhibiting the AKT signaling pathway. This role establishes ABHD6 as a promising prognostic biomarker and a potential therapeutic target for CRC patients.
Can digital technology remove impediments in the dual circulation?—An enterprise cycle efficiency perspective
Authors: Ran Lijun , Wang Kang , Sun Jiamin , Qu Yahui
Published: January 2024

Digital technology is an important tool to smooth the dual circulation. This paper empirically examines the impact of digital technology on the enterprise dual circulation and its mechanism based on the data of enterprises in ZGC from 2013 to 2019. It shows that digital technology can significantly promote enterprise dual circulation, and this conclusion still holds after a series of robustness tests. Mechanisms analyzed found that digital technology promotes enterprise dual circulation by unclogging blockages in the production, distribution, circulation, and consumption chain. Further research found that digital technology facilitates NSOEs more significantly than SOEs. Meanwhile, the application of e‐commerce, big data, cloud computing, mobile Internet, Internet finance, and Internet of Things promote more obviously compared with intelligent hardware. This paper provides micro‐empirical evidence that digital technologies smooth the dual circulation.
An unexpected property of fractional difference operators: Finite and eventual monotonicity
Authors: Goodrich Christopher , Lizama Carlos
Published: January 2024

We consider the relationship between the sign of the fractional difference
and the positivity or monotonicity of
. Our focus is on the case in which the fractional difference can be negative, and we show that surprisingly,
, where
is a constant, can still imply that
is increasing or is positive. We also consider the setting of sequential difference operators such as
for suitable choices of the parameters
and
. As is demonstrated by explicit examples, our results substantially improve some recent results in the literature and, moreover, shed light on some previous observations that heretofore were only able to be investigated by numerical simulations. We also provide applications of our results to an analysis of fractional‐order initial value problems.
Pandemic fatigue and clinical front‐line medical staff health, job status during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A cross‐sectional survey after the lifting of epidemic restrictions
Authors: Zhang Yiqing , Xu Qihang , Ma Jingjing , Wang Zhengzheng , Lu Shunshun
Published: January 2024

Aim

This study aimed to measure pandemic fatigue, physical and mental health, and job status of front‐line medical staff in Ningbo. And to identify factors associated with pandemic fatigue.

Background

There was an acute increase in fatigue symptoms at the COVID‐19 pandemic onset. The front‐line medical staff is particularly vulnerable to fatigue due to their high‐intensity work.

Design

This was a descriptive, cross‐sectional study conducted using an online survey that included demographic data, investigation of COVID‐19 history and job status. The Fatigue Assessment Scale, GAD‐7 score and Sleep Quality Scale were used to collect data from 479 front‐line medical staff.

Methods

The study involved 479 front‐line medical staff in Ningbo, China. The survey was conducted using an online questionnaire that included demographic data, investigation of COVID‐19 history and job status. The Fatigue Assessment Scale, GAD‐7 score and Sleep Quality Scale were used to collect data.

Results

The results showed that of the 479 participants, 393 (82%) reported pandemic fatigue, 393 (82%) reported job satisfaction and 433 (90.4%) identified with their sense of job value. Sleep quality, work with a fever, economic subsidies for fighting COVID‐19 and recognizing professional value were significantly correlated with pandemic fatigue.

Conclusions

As the COVID‐19 pandemic challenges front‐line medical workers, implementing measures is essential. Health policy implementers could provide sufficient front‐line medical staff to ensure rest in case of infection, promote sleep quality and foster professional value and financial subsidies in units.

Relevance to clinical practice

The study shows how pandemic fatigue affects front‐line medical staff during the COVID‐19 pandemic and suggests measures to support them, including promoting sleep quality, providing rest for infected staff, fostering professional value and financial subsidies. The recommendations are relevant to clinical practice as they help support medical staff and ensure high‐quality care for patients during the pandemic.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution. Not applicable.
Synthesis and properties of RNA constrained by a 2’‐O‐disulfide bridge
Authors: Traoré Diallo , Biecher Elisa , Mallet Manon , Rouanet Sonia , Vasseur Jean‐Jacques , Smietana Michael , Dupouy Christelle
Published: January 2024

We recently reported the properties of RNA hairpins constrained by a dimethylene (DME) disulfide (S−S) linker incorporated between two adjacent nucleosides in the loop and showed that this linker locked the hairpin conformation thus disturbing the duplex/hairpin equilibrium. We have now investigated the influence of the length of the linker and synthesized oligoribonucleotides containing diethylene (DEE) and dipropylene (DPE) S−S bridges. This was achieved via the preparation of building blocks, namely 2′‐O‐acetylthioethyl (2′‐O‐AcSE) and 2′‐O‐acetylthiopropyl (2′‐O‐AcSP) uridine phosphoramidites, which were successfully incorporated into RNA sequences. Thermal denaturation analysis revealed that the DEE and DPE disulfide bridges destabilize RNA duplexes but do not disrupt the hairpin conformation. Furthermore, our investigation of the duplex/hairpin equilibrium indicated that sequences modified with DME and DEE S−S linkers predominantly lock the hairpin form, whereas the DPE S−S linker provides flexibility. These findings highlight the potential of S−S linkers to study RNA interactions.
Porous‐structured vermiculite/polybutylene adipate terephthalate composite films: The morphology, mechanical properties, and nonisothermal degradation kinetics
Authors: Xu Yuhuan , Zhou Teng , Shang Xiaoyu , Zhang Daohai , Liu Xiaonan , Shuhao Qin
Published: January 2024

To examine the impact of vermiculite (VMT) on the environmental and physical aspects of polybutylene terephthalate (PBAT), the thermal degradation behavior of VMT/polybutylene terephthalate polyadipate (VMT/PBAT) composite films was investigated by using the thermogravimetric analysis (TGA). To ensure precise calculation of the specific activation energy values of VMT/PBAT composite films in thermal degradation performance experiments, the Kissinger method (K‐method) and Flynn–Wall–Ozawa method (FWO method) were utilized. Additionally, the reaction mechanism was analyzed using the Coats–Redfern equation (CR equation). The introduction of VMT into the PBAT co‐polyester structure leads to an increase in the thermal degradation activation energy Ek of composite films.; the apparent activation energies were calculated by the Coats–Redfern method for different reaction mechanisms, and the interfacial diffusion reaction mechanism of the composite film was determined, with a thermal degradation reaction principle properties of g(α) = [1 − (1 − α)]2 and the number of reaction steps of 2.

Highlights

VMT/PBAT composite films prepared using a simple method.

Analyzing nonisothermal degradation kinetics using K‐method and FWO method.

Analyzing the degradation mechanisms using the Coats–Redfern equation.

Addition of VMT enhances the thermal degradation properties of composite films.

Addition of VMT reduces the mechanical properties of the composite film.
Alterations in the hub structure of whole‐brain functional networks in patients with drug‐naïve schizophrenia: Insights from electroencephalography‐based research
Authors: Ishibashi Tomoaki , Nobukawa Sou , Tobe Mayuna , Kikuchi Mitsuru , Takahashi Tetsuya
Published: January 2024

Aim

This study aimed to identify atypical hubs in the whole‐brain networks of patients with schizophrenia (SZ) and examine the effects of antipsychotic medications, using electroencephalography (EEG) data.

Methods

We estimated the functional connectivity across all electrodes by applying the phase lag index to the EEG signals of 21 drug‐naïve patients with SZ and 31 age‐matched healthy controls. Betweenness centrality (BC), a measure of hub status, was calculated for each electrode and frequency band. Data from 14 patients were re‐evaluated after initiating treatment with antipsychotic medications.

Results

BC values decreased significantly at the Fz site in the beta band, decreased significantly at Pz in the gamma band, and increased significantly at O1 in the gamma band among patients with SZ. These changes persisted after antipsychotic treatment and were unrelated to clinical symptoms.

Conclusion

The abnormal hub topology we observed, especially in the high‐frequency band, may reflect the pathophysiology of SZ, and this study highlights the utility of BC analysis of EEG data for detecting alterations in the whole‐brain networks of patients with SZ.
The impact of future self‐continuity on college students' online learning engagement: A moderated mediation model
Authors: Shen Junxian , Zhang Hongfeng , Zheng Jiansong
Published: January 2024

Online learning is becoming more and more common, so how to maintain learners' online learning engagement is very important. This study aims to explore the impact of future self‐continuity on college students' online learning engagement and its underlying mechanism of action. We utilized the Future Self‐Continuity Questionnaire, the Learning Self‐regulation Questionnaire, the Implicit Theories of Intelligence Scale, and the Online Learning Engagement Scale to measure the corresponding variables of a sample with 476 college students. The results revealed that future self‐continuity, autonomous motivation, and implicit theories of intelligence were significant positive predictors of student's online learning engagement. The positive association between future self‐continuity and student's online learning engagement was mediated by the autonomous motivation. Moreover, the mediating effect of autonomous motivation was moderated by the implicit theories of intelligence. Relation to the individual endorsing entity theorists, the mediating effect of autonomous motivation was stronger for individual holding increment theorists. Future self‐continuity has an impact on college students' online learning engagement levels directly or indirectly through autonomous motivation. Attention should be paid to the cultivation training of learners' future scenario imagination and autonomous motivation to facilitate their maintenance of focused online learning engagement.
A preliminary comparison study of teachers' resilience in Greece and Poland
Authors: Boczkowska Magdalena , Daniilidou Athena , Platsidou Maria
Published: January 2024

This study aimed to assess the applicability of the Teachers' Resilience Scale (TRS) among Greek and Polish teachers and explore whether nationality and sociodemographic factors influence teachers' engagement with resilience protective factors. A total of 1622 teachers participated, providing TRS responses and sociodemographic information. Greek and Polish teachers exhibited similar assessments of protective factors, except for Social Competence and Peer Support, where Greek teachers scored higher. Greek teachers also reported higher overall resilience scores than Polish teachers. Gender differences were observed, with women scoring higher in Personal Competencies and Persistence than men. Marital status influenced Social Skills and Peer Support and Family Cohesion, favoring those married and/or in relationships. Additionally, teachers in primary and secondary education reported higher scores in Personal Competencies and Persistence compared to kindergarten teachers. These findings contribute to understanding how individuals and social groups, despite facing diverse adversities, tend to employ similar strategies to bolster and safeguard their resilience.
Hope, childhood experiences, and achievement motivation in high school students: A mixed methods study
Authors: Polat Meyrem Ayça , Aliyev Ramin
Published: January 2024

The aim of the study is to examine the role of childhood experiences and achievement motivation in high school students' hope levels. The quantitative (N = 686, 43.9% females and 56.1% males, aged between 13 and 19; Mage = 16.02, standard deviation = 1.23) and qualitative data of the study, in which enriched design was used, were collected from high school students studying in the Southeast of Turkey. Hierarchical regression was used in the quantitative part of the study and content analysis was carried out in the qualitative part. It is seen that the results in the qualitative analysis part largely coincide with the results in the quantitative part. The results denote that high school students have high hope levels. Also, according to the results, there is a negative, low‐level, and significant relationship between childhood experiences and hope, and a positive and moderately significant relationship between hope and achievement motivation. Although childhood experiences and achievement motivation significantly predict the level of hope, it is concluded that achievement motivation contributes more to the hope‐related variance which is explained. The findings reveal the value of achievement motivation and childhood experiences in understanding adolescents' hope multidimensionally.