bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Identification and prioritization of stepping stones for biodiversity conservation in forest ecosystems
Authors: Lapin Katharina , Hoffmann Johanna A. , Braun Martin , Oettel Janine
Published: June 2024

Habitat degradation and fragmentation are two of the main drivers for biodiversity loss. To mitigate the negative impact of fragmentation in forests, conservation targets are increasingly addressing connectivity to facilitate the independent movement of species between habitat fragments to ensure genetic diversity and adaptation to climate change. In this article, we present a novel approach to identifying and prioritizing stepping stones for preserving connectivity based on national and regional biodiversity data for Austrian forest ecosystems. Our study identified forest areas where conservation measures should be taken to ensure future habitat connectivity by combining four indicator values with different requirements of a stepping stone habitat into a prioritization value. The four compounded indicators are: (i) the Protect Value, which includes distances to patches of protected areas with restricted management for the undisturbed development of retention areas, (ii) the Connect Value, which combines datasets of designated habitat corridors and connectivity areas in Austria based on landscape models and expert validation, (iii) the Species Value identifying species‐rich areas, and (iv) the Habitat Value identifying biotopes of high ecological value, key biodiversity areas, and sites of favorable protection status. Nonparametric tests revealed significant differences in prioritization value among the ecoregions of Austria and therefore encourage the consideration of stepping stone prioritization at local and regional context. Building upon the insights from this case study on Austrian forest ecosystems, we developed a robust framework derived from our methodology. This framework is designed to facilitate future implementations in diverse study regions, accounting for factors beyond connectivity crucial for identifying high value stepping stone habitats. We encourage adaptation of this framework to local data availability, species requirements, and local conditions. The compiled framework provides decision support for managers and conservationists for prioritizing areas to conserve and improve connectivity of forest habitats. However, it does not substitute on‐the‐ground field assessments of habitat quality and measures of functional connectivity.
The Political Economy of ‘Failure’ in The World Bank‐funded Bisri Dam in Lebanon
Authors: Khneisser Mona
Published: June 2024

The World Bank‐funded Bisri Dam in Lebanon represents an emblematic case of a high‐modernist project that has foundered on a mix of hydrogeological recalcitrance, popular opposition and compounding crises. Examining the popular contestation surrounding the Bisri Dam, this article offers a socio‐ecological material lens on post‐colonial state building and the political economy of infrastructural failure. Avoiding the analytical impasse of crisis epistemes and heuristics of failure within the long tradition of development studies on the Global South in general, and Lebanon in particular, the article poses a number of questions. How are ‘crises’ and ‘failures’ constitutive of capitalist development, and for whom are they generative? How can the ubiquitous failures of the promises of infrastructure become an opportunity for the re‐animation, re‐appropriation and re‐politicization of hydrogeologies and political imaginaries? Rather than perceiving them as aberrations, the author argues that failures are constitutive of high‐modernist infrastructural development, its liberal prescriptive techno‐political models, and the speculative logics of endless ruination. Yet, failures can also become generative, instigating new political imaginaries and historical subjectivities. The article pays special attention to competing modalities of power, focusing on the collective power of oppositional groups, coupled with the material recalcitrant power of local hydrogeology, in resisting unviable, speculative infrastructure.
Individual differences in internalizing symptoms in late childhood: A variance decomposition into cortical thickness, genetic and environmental differences
Authors: Tandberg Anneli D. , Dahl Andreas , Norbom Linn B. , Westlye Lars T. , Ystrom Eivind , Tamnes Christian K. , Eilertsen Espen M.
Published: June 2024

The brain undergoes extensive development during late childhood and early adolescence. Cortical thinning is a prominent feature of this development, and some researchers have suggested that differences in cortical thickness may be related to internalizing symptoms, which typically increase during the same period. However, research has yielded inconclusive results. We utilized a new method that estimates the combined effect of individual differences in vertex‐wise cortical thickness on internalizing symptoms. This approach allows for many small effects to be distributed across the cortex and avoids the necessity of correcting for multiple tests. Using a sample of 8763 children aged 8.9 to 11.1 from the ABCD study, we decomposed the total variation in caregiver‐reported internalizing symptoms into differences in cortical thickness, additive genetics, and shared family environmental factors and unique environmental factors. Our results indicated that individual differences in cortical thickness accounted for less than 0.5% of the variation in internalizing symptoms. In contrast, the analysis revealed a substantial effect of additive genetics and family environmental factors on the different components of internalizing symptoms, ranging from 06% to 48% and from 0% to 34%, respectively. Overall, while this study found a minimal association between cortical thickness and internalizing symptoms, additive genetics, and familial environmental factors appear to be of importance for describing differences in internalizing symptoms in late childhood.

Research Highlights

We utilized a new method for modelling the total contribution of vertex‐wise individual differences in cortical thickness to internalizing symptoms in late childhood.

The total contribution of individual differences in cortical thickness accounted for <0.5% of the variance in internalizing symptoms.

Additive genetics and shared family environmental variation accounted for 17% and 34% of the variance in internalizing symptoms, respectively.

Our results suggest that cortical thickness is not an important indicator for internalizing symptoms in childhood, whereas genetic and environmental differences have a substantial impact.
Emergency communication networks on Twitter during Hurricane Irma: information flow, influential actors, and top messages
Authors: Hu Qian , An Seongho , Kapucu Naim , Sellnow Timothy , Yuksel Murat , Freihaut Rebecca , Dey Prasun Kanti
Published: June 2024

This study combined network analysis with message‐level content analysis to investigate patterns of information flow and to examine messages widely distributed on social media during Hurricane Irma of 2017. The results show that while organisational users and media professionals dominated the top 100 information sources, individual citizens played a critical role in information dissemination. Public agencies should increase their retweeting activities and share the information posted by other trustworthy sources; doing so will contribute to the timely exchange of vital information during a disaster. This study also identified the active involvement of nonprofit organisations as information brokers during the post‐event stage, indicating the potential for emergency management organisations to integrate their communication efforts into those of nonprofit entities. These findings will inform emergency management practices regarding implementation of communication plans and policies, facilitate the embracement of new partner organisations, and help with establishing and sustaining effective communication ties with a wide range of stakeholders.
Developmental anatomy of the thalamus, perinatal lesions, and neurological development
Authors: Govaert Paul , Arena Roberta , Dudink Jeroen , Steggerda Sylke , Agut Thais , Marissens Gertjan , Hoebeek Freek ,   EurUS.Brain group
Published: June 2024

The thalamic nuclei develop before a viable preterm age. GABAergic neuronal migration is especially active in the third trimester. Thalamic axons meet cortical axons during subplate activation and create the definitive cortical plate in the second and third trimesters. Default higher‐order cortical driver connections to the thalamus are then replaced by the maturing sensory networks, in a process that is driven by first‐order thalamic neurons. Surface electroencephalographic activity, generated first in the subplate and later in the cortical plate, gradually show oscillations based on the interaction of the cortex with thalamus, which is controlled by the thalamic reticular nucleus. In viable newborn infants, in addition to sensorimotor networks, the thalamus already contributes to visual, auditory, and pain processing, and to arousal and sleep. Isolated thalamic lesions may present as clinical seizures. In addition to asphyxia and stroke, infection and network injury are also common. Cranial ultrasound can be used to classify neonatal thalamic injuries based on functional parcelling of the mature thalamus. We provide ample illustration and a detailed description of the impact of neonatal focal thalamic injury on neurological development, and discuss the potential for neuroprotection based on thalamocortical plasticity.
A predictive model for medium‐term weight loss response in people with type 2 diabetes engaging in behavioural weight management interventions
Authors: Al‐Abdullah Lulwa , Ahern Amy , Welsh Paul , Logue Jennifer
Published: June 2024

Aims

To develop and evaluate prediction models for medium‐term weight loss response in behavioural weight management programmes.

Materials and Methods

We conducted three longitudinal analyses using the Action for HEalth in Diabetes (LookAHEAD) trial, Weight loss Referrals for Adults in Primary care (WRAP) trial, and routine data from the National Health Service Greater Glasgow and Clyde Weight Management Service (NHS‐GGCWMS). We investigated predictors of medium‐term weight loss (>5% body weight) over 3 years in NHS‐GGCWMS and, separately, predictors of weight loss response in LookAHEAD over 4 years. We validated predictors in both studies using WRAP over 5 years. Predictors of interest included demographic and clinical variables, early weight change in‐programme (first 4 weeks) and overall in‐programme weight change.

Results

In LookAHEAD and WRAP the only baseline variables consistently associated with weight loss response were female sex and older age. Of 1152 participants in NHS‐GGCWMS (mean age 57.8 years, 60% female, type 2 diabetes diagnosed for a median of 5.3 years), 139 lost weight over 3 years (12%). The strongest predictor of weight loss response was early weight change (odds ratio 2.22, 95% confidence interval 1.92–2.56) per 1% weight loss. Losing 0.5% weight in the first 4 weeks predicted medium‐term weight loss (sensitivity 89.9%, specificity 49.5%, negative predictive value 97.3%). Overall in‐programme weight change was also associated with weight loss response over 3 years in NHS‐GGCWMS and over 5 years in WRAP.

Conclusions

Not attaining a weight loss threshold of 0.5% early in weight management programmes may identify participants who would benefit from alternative interventions.
Transformative foresight for diverse futures: the Seeds of Good Anthropocenes initiative
Authors: Preiser Rika , Hichert Tanja , Biggs Reinette , van Velden Julia , Magadzire Nyasha , Peterson Garry , Pereira Laura , Mayer Keziah , Benessaiah Karina
Published: June 2024

Motivation

Foresight methods are increasingly recognized as essential for decision‐making in complex environments, particularly within development and research settings. As foresight methods continue to gain prominence for decision‐making, their application in these settings grows. Funders and policy‐makers can benefit from the experience of transformative foresight practitioners and researchers who are skilled in designing novel ways to envision alternative and diverse development futures.

Purpose

The Seeds of Good Anthropocenes (SoGA) initiative has experimented with transformative foresight since its inception in 2016.

We position SoGA within the framework of Minkkinen et al. (2019); we present its transformative capacity through participatory visioning; and we explore how foresight methods can shape strategic development options.

Approach and methods

We draw lessons from how SoGA, used extensively in various contexts around the world, has introduced experimental transformative foresight to deal with diversity and complexity. We describe the transformative foresight processes in detail.

Findings

SoGA exemplifies how transformative foresight can support policy and change initiatives by providing participants, planners, and decision‐makers with opportunities to reinforce the collaborative and transformative objectives of their policy and convening practices. Such engagement not only deepens the strategic impact of policies, it also encourages a more inclusive and participatory approach to policy development, aligning with broader goals for sustainable and impactful change.
How automated techniques ease functional assessment of the fetal heart: Applicability of two‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography for comprehensive analysis of global and segmental cardiac deformation using fetalHQ®
Authors: Scharf Jann Lennard , Dracopoulos Christoph , Gembicki Michael , Rody Achim , Welp Amrei , Weichert Jan
Published: June 2024

Background

Prenatal echocardiographic assessment of fetal cardiac function has become increasingly important. Fetal two‐dimensional speckle‐tracking echocardiography (2D‐STE) allows the determination of global and segmental functional cardiac parameters. Prenatal diagnostics is relying increasingly on artificial intelligence, whose algorithms transform the way clinicians use ultrasound in their daily workflow. The purpose of this study was to demonstrate the feasibility of whether less experienced operators can handle and might benefit from an automated tool of 2D‐STE in the clinical routine.

Methods

A total of 136 unselected, normal, singleton, second‐ and third‐trimester fetuses with normofrequent heart rates were examined by targeted ultrasound. 2D‐STE was performed separately by beginner and expert semiautomatically using a GE Voluson E10 (FetalHQ®, GE Healthcare, Chicago, IL). Several fetal cardiac parameters were calculated (end‐diastolic diameter [ED], sphericity index [SI], global longitudinal strain [EndoGLS], fractional shortening [FS]) and assigned to gestational age (GA). Bland‐Altman plots were used to test agreement between both operators.

Results

The mean maternal age was 33 years, and the mean maternal body mass index prior to pregnancy was 24.78 kg/m2. The GA ranged from 16.4 to 32.0 weeks (average 22.9 weeks). Averaged endoGLS value of the beginner was ‐18.57% ± 6.59 percentage points (pp) for the right and ‐19.58% ± 5.63 pp for the left ventricle, that of the expert ‐14.33% ± 4.88 pp and ‐16.37% ± 5.42 pp. With increasing GA, right ventricular endoGLS decreased slightly while the left ventricular was almost constant. The statistical analysis for endoGLS showed a Bland‐Altman‐Bias of ‐4.24 pp ± 8.06 pp for the right and ‐3.21 pp ± 7.11 pp for the left ventricle. The Bland‐Altman‐Bias of the ED in both ventricles in all analyzed segments ranged from ‐.49 mm ± 1.54 mm to ‐.10 mm ± 1.28 mm, that for FS from ‐.33 pp ± 11.82 pp to 3.91 pp ± 15.56 pp and that for SI from ‐.38 ± .68 to ‐.15 ± .45.

Conclusions

Between both operators, our data indicated that 2D‐STE analysis showed excellent agreement for cardiac morphometry parameters (ED and SI), and good agreement for cardiac function parameters (EndoGLS and FS). Due to its complexity, the application of fetal 2D‐STE remains the domain of scientific‐academic perinatal ultrasound and should be placed preferably in the hands of skilled operators. At present, from our perspective, an implementation into clinical practice “on‐the‐fly” cannot be recommended.
Associations of sex, age, and number of remaining teeth with performance on oral hypofunction tests
Authors: Okamoto Mieko , Yoshida Mitsuyoshi , Tsuga Kazuhiro , Matsuo Koichiro , Ikebe Kazunori , Ueda Takayuki , Minakuchi Shunsuke
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Oral hypofunction comprises seven aspects of oral condition, including oral hygiene, oral dryness, bite strength, tongue‐lip motor function, tongue pressure, masticatory function, and swallowing function. Each of these seven has a single diagnostic criterion; however, the use of a single indicator without consideration of sex, age, or other factors is controversial. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the association between the oral hypofunction test and sex, age, and number of remaining teeth.

Methods

The study was conducted at 12 facilities by the members of the Japanese Society of Geriatric Dentistry during April to December 2019. The participants comprised 181 healthy older adults aged 65 years and over (56.9% female; age range 65–95 years) who regularly visited these facilities. All tests of oral function and oral status available in Japan were performed on the participants, and the association between these tests and sex, age, and number of remaining teeth was examined.

Results

Sex differences were observed in masticatory function, bite force, lip closure force, jaw‐opening force, oral diadochokinesis “ka,” and tongue coating index (p < .05). In men, age was weakly (r = 0.20–0.40) associated with masticatory function, jaw‐opening force, maximum tongue pressure, oral diadochokinesis, and swallowing function. In women, the number of remaining teeth, masticatory function, jaw‐opening force, and oral diadochokinesis “ta” and “ka” was also weakly associated with age.

Conclusions

Performance on the oral hypofunction test differs by sex, age, and number of remaining teeth. This means that the current single criterion for evaluation requires caution in its interpretation.
Low liver reserve is a risk factor for acute pancreatitis in patients with acute liver failure
Authors: Kakisaka Keisuke , Sasaki Tokio , Nakaya Ippeki , Watanabe Takuya , Abe Hiroaki , Yusa Kenji , Fujiwara Yudai , Abe Tamami , Suzuki Akiko , Endo Kei , Yoshida Yuichi , Oikawa Takayoshi , Sawara Kei , Miyasaka Akio , Kuroda Hidekatsu , Matsumoto Takayuki
Published: June 2024

Aim

Acute pancreatitis is a complication of acute liver failure (ALF). This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of and clinical features associated with acute pancreatitis in patients with ALF.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed a cohort of ALF patients without hepatic encephalopathy diagnosed during a period 2011–2018, and compared clinical features between patients with acute pancreatitis and those without. Acute pancreatitis was diagnosed according to the Acute Pancreatitis Clinical Practice Guidelines 2021. A multivariate analysis was carried out to identify factors associated with acute pancreatitis.

Results

There were 83 ALF patients without hepatic encephalopathy (34 men; 11 deaths; 6 liver transplants; median age, 63 years). Acute pancreatitis occurred in nine patients (10.8%). The median time duration from ALF to the onset of acute pancreatitis was 8 days. The survival rate was lower in patients with than those without acute pancreatitis (22% vs. 86%). The model for end‐stage liver disease score (hazard ratio 1.10, 95% confidence interval 1.03–1.18) was found to be a significant factor associated with acute pancreatitis, whereas triglyceride, age, and sex were not.

Conclusions

A high model for end‐stage liver disease score may be a marker to stratify patients with ALF at a risk of acute pancreatitis.
Implementation of the recommended immunohistochemistry algorithm for classification of peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, not otherwise specified into the prognostically significant GATA3 and TBX21 subtypes
Authors: Jain Surabhi , Ahmad Aijaz , Jan Ambreen , Gogia Ajay , Aggarwal Mukul , Viswanathan Ganesh Kumar , Mandal Trisha , Sharma Atul , Sahoo Ranjit , Sharma Mehar Chand , Bakhshi Sameer , Kumar Lalit , Mallick Saumyaranjan
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Current molecular research has shown the several oncogenic pathways that give rise to the peripheral T‐cell lymphoma, not otherwise defined (PTCL, NOS) subtypes, which alter prognosis and might have predictive value. This study was conducted to assess the immunohistochemistry (IHC) algorithm by Amador et al for the subtyping of PTCL, NOS and determine its applicability in relation to the clinicopathological profile.

Methods

This study included 43 patients with PTCL, NOS diagnosis. Following the use of IHC for the transcription factors GATA3, TBX21, CCR4, and CXCR3, two pathologists subtyped the samples. Comprehensive clinicopathological correlation was carried out.

Results

Applying the algorithm of Amador et al., cases were classified into GATA3 (20), TBX21 (15), and unclassified (8) subtypes. No significant association with clinical parameters of subtypes or CD4/ CD8 positivity was observed. Although a higher proportion of cases in the TBX21 subgroup showed a polymorphic population compared with the GATA3 subgroup, which had a monomorphic population, no significant p‐value (0.111) was observed. Two Lennert lymphomas were classified into the GATA3 subgroup. Multivariate analysis showed no significant difference in overall survival (p‐value = 0.105) and progression‐free survival (p‐value = 0.0509) between IHC‐defined subtypes; trends indicate that overall survival and progression‐free survival are worse in the GATA3 subgroup.

Conclusion

Although the algorithm is reproducible, a proportion of cases remains unclassifiable and may require additional investigation and gene expression profiling. The GATA3 subgroup was found to have a monomorphic population with a poor overall prognosis and thus requires a larger sample size for validation.
Negative expression of CD117 predicted inferior OS and PFS in acute promyelocytic leukemia
Authors: Zeng Hui , He Jie , Dong Hai‐Bo , Zhou Min , Zhang Qian , Chen Lan‐Xin , Yuan Cui‐Ying , Jiang Ru‐Ru , Liu Jin‐Wen , Ou‐Yang Jian , Ben Yu , Chen Bing
Published: June 2024

Introduction

In recent years, the correlation between CD117 antigen and the prognosis of hematological malignancies has been demonstrated. However, there is limited literature on the clinical significance of CD117 antigen in acute promyelocytic leukemia (APL). The aim of this study was to retrospectively analyze the clinical features and prognostic significance of CD117 in APL.

Methods

In this study, we retrospectively investigated the clinicopathological characteristics, outcome, and prognostic impact of negative CD117 expression (CD117−) in 169 APL patients treated with all‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) containing regimen.

Results

The median follow‐up period was 63.0 months. CD117− was detected in 13 APL patients (7.7%). No significant differences were found in baseline characteristics between CD117+ and CD117− subgroups. However, compared to CD117+ APL, the incidence of early death (ED) was significantly higher in CD117− APL (p = 0.023). By multivariate analysis, CD117‐ was an independent adverse prognostic factor for overall survival (OS) and progression‐free survival (PFS) (p = 0.022 and p = 0.014, respectively).

Conclusions

To sum up, CD117− is associated with greater risk of ED and has the statistical power to predict inferior OS and PFS, this marker may be considered to build prognostic scores for risk‐adapted therapeutic strategies in APL management.
Clinical questions in the Japanese Urological Association's 2024 clinical practice guidelines for urethral strictures
Authors: Horiguchi Akio , Shinchi Masayuki , Hirano Yusuke , Asanuma Hiroshi , Ishiura Yoshiyuki , Inoue Koji , Kanematsu Akihiro , Tabei Tadashi , Tamura Yoshimi , Nakajima Yosuke , Moriya Kimihiko , Yagihashi Yusuke , Fukagai Takashi , Fujii Yasuhisa
Published: June 2024

Transurethral procedures such as direct vision internal urethrotomy and urethral dilation have been the traditional treatments for urethral strictures. However, transurethral procedures are associated with high recurrence rates, resulting in many uncured cases and prompting major international urological societies to recommend urethroplasty as the standard treatment owing to its high success rate. In contrast, many Japanese general urologists have little doubts about treating urethral strictures with transurethral treatment. Therefore, urethral stricture treatments in Japan are not in line with those used in other countries. To address this, the Trauma, Emergency Medicine, and Reconstruction Subcommittee of the Japanese Urological Association has developed guidelines to offer standardized treatment protocols for urethral stricture, based on international evidence and tailored to Japan's medical landscape. These guidelines target patients with a clinically suspected urethral stricture and are intended for urologists and general practitioners involved in its diagnosis and treatment. Following the Minds Clinical Practice Guideline Development Manual 2020, the committee identified eight critical clinical issues and formulated eight clinical questions using the “patient, intervention, comparison, and outcome” format. A comprehensive literature search was conducted. For six clinical questions addressed by the existing guidelines or systematic reviews, the level of evidence was determined by qualitative systematic reviews. Quantitative systematic reviews and meta‐analyses were performed for the two unique clinical questions. The recommendation grades were determined using the Delphi method and consensus by the committee. These guidelines will be useful to clinicians in daily practice, especially those involved in the care of urethral strictures.
Infants' facial electromyographic responses to the sight of emotional interpersonal touch
Authors: Addabbo Margaret , Licht Victoria , Turati Chiara
Published: June 2024

Adult studies have shown that observed interpersonal touch provides crucial information about others' emotional states. Yet, despite the unique communicative function of touch during development, very little is known about infants' sensitivity to the emotional valence of observed touches. To investigate this issue, we measured facial electromyographic (EMG) activity in response to positive (caress) and negative (scratches) observed touches in a sample of 11‐month‐old infants. Facial EMG activity was measured over the zygomaticus major (ZM) and corrugator supercilii muscles, respectively involved in positive (i.e., smiling) and negative (i.e., frowning) facial expressions. Results have shown distinct activations of the ZM during the observation of scratches and caresses. In particular, significantly greater activation of the ZM (smiling muscle) emerged specifically in response to the observation of caresses compared to scratches. Our finding suggests that, in infancy, observed affective touches can evoke emotional facial reactions.
Enhancing Disability Nursing Practice in Australia: Addressing Educational Preparedness
Authors: Jojo Natasha , Wilson Rhonda L.
Published: June 2024

People with intellectual disabilities (IDs) face significant health challenges, including poor outcomes, limited access to health care, and a 26‐year life expectancy gap compared with the general population. This highlights the need for improved public health and social policies to enhance the quality of care in hospital and community settings. An integrated literature review was conducted to examine the state of disability nursing practice in Australia following the implementation of the National Disability Insurance Support (NDIS) scheme. The review included English‐language studies published from 2010 to 2023. Systematic searches in five databases resulted in a final sample of 28 studies. The data were then thematically analysed, and the following three themes emerged: Workforce development and professional standards, hospital experience and support needs of individuals with IDs, and nursing curriculum and ID. Study findings suggest that nurses lack preparation for effective health communication with individuals with IDs and their families. Evidence is insufficient to guide nursing practice and policies in ID care. Varying understandings of practice standards exist among nurses. Nursing curriculums in Australia fail to adequately prepare students to manage the unique needs of individuals with IDs, perpetuating the high mortality rates in this population. Specialised nursing practice areas are vital for meeting the complex needs of individuals with IDs. Reintroducing a disability nursing specialty and integrating dedicated study units and clinical placements in undergraduate programmes are recommended steps to improve care outcomes and support the overall well‐being of this population.
Investigating institutional and expenditure patterns on debt and economic growth in Ghana
Authors: Sedegah Klenam K. , Ayisi Richard Kwabi , Abdul‐Rahaman Wassiuw , Baah‐Boateng William
Published: June 2024

This study investigates the influence of government expenditure and institutions on public debt accumulation and economic growth in Ghana between 1990 and 2019. The paper examines how public debt is utilized for government spending on capital and recurrent expenditure, and the role bureaucratic quality plays in improving economic growth. The employed estimation technique is structural equation modelling because it effectively assesses complex situations and allows the modelling of complex systems by utilizing simultaneous equations, mediator analysis and modification indices to improve the goodness of fit of a model. The study indicates that public debt negatively affects GDP growth, whereas trade openness positively influences GDP growth and public debt accumulation. Bureaucratic quality impacts GDP growth positively and capital expenditure negatively. Recurrent expenditure positively predicts GDP growth and capital expenditure. Capital expenditure's effect on GDP growth is negative but statistically insignificant. The right checks and balances should be implemented to mitigate rent‐seeking and corrupt activities associated with bureaucracy. Tax revenue mobilization should be improved to reduce budget deficits and borrowing, whereas exports should be promoted through improving local industries. Finally, all infrastructural projects must be completed to serve their purpose.
Unveiling the role of copper metabolism and STEAP2 in idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis molecular landscape
Authors: Wang Yajun , Chen Shuyang , Chen Shujing , Jiang Jinjun
Published: June 2024

Idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF) is a debilitating interstitial lung disease characterized by progressive fibrosis and poor prognosis. Despite advancements in treatment, the pathophysiological mechanisms of IPF remain elusive. Herein, we conducted an integrated bioinformatics analysis combining clinical data and carried out experimental validations to unveil the intricate molecular mechanism of IPF. Leveraging three IPF datasets, we identified 817 upregulated and 560 downregulated differentially expressed genes (DEGs). Of these, 14 DEGs associated with copper metabolism were identified, shedding light on the potential involvement of disrupted copper metabolism in IPF progression. Immune infiltration analysis revealed dysregulated immune cell infiltration in IPF, with a notable correlation between copper metabolism‐related genes and immune cells. Weighted gene co‐expression network analysis (WGCNA) identified a central module correlated with IPF‐associated genes, among which STEAP2 emerged as a key hub gene. Subsequent in vivo and in vitro studies confirmed the upregulation of STEAP2 in IPF model. Knockdown of STEAP2 using siRNA alleviated fibrosis in vitro, suggesting potential pathway related to copper metabolism in the pathophysiological progression of IPF. Our study established a novel link between immune cell infiltration and dysregulated copper metabolism. The revelation of intracellular copper overload and upregulated STEAP2 unravelled a potential therapeutic option. These findings offer valuable insights for future research and therapeutic interventions targeting STEAP2 and associated pathways in IPF.
Distracted institutional shareholders and debt maturity
Authors: Cheung Adrian (Wai Kong) , Khoo Joye , Wang Rui
Published: June 2024

We examine whether institutional shareholders’ distraction affects corporate debt maturity decisions. We find that firms with distracted shareholders are associated with lengthened debt maturity. The effect becomes stronger for firms with high information asymmetry or those with high levels of financial constraint. When distraction is high and debt maturity is low, firms hold more cash and use that cash in value‐destroying acquisitions. This supports the prevalence of agency problems when institutional shareholders are distracted. The impact of distraction is persistent and affects the debt maturity decision in the future. Our findings are robust to endogeneity and other concerns.
Revisiting the steatosis‐associated fibrosis estimator score in young Asian subjects with steatotic liver disease and consideration for population variability
Authors: Yang Jiwon , Choi Won‐Mook , Lee Danbi , Shim Ju Hyun , Kim Kang Mo , Lim Young‐Suk , Lee Han Chu , Choi Jonggi
Published: June 2024

Background and Aim

The steatosis‐associated fibrosis estimator (SAFE) score has been developed to distinguish clinically significant fibrosis in patients with steatotic liver disease (SLD). However, validation of its performance in Asian subjects is limited. This study aimed to evaluate the performance of the SAFE score in Asian subjects with biopsy‐proven SLD and in different subgroups according to age, sex, and body mass index.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 6383 living liver donors who underwent a liver biopsy between 2005 and 2023. Of these, 1551 subjects with biopsy‐proven SLD were included. The performance of the SAFE score was evaluated using areas under the curve and compared with those of the nonalcoholic fatty liver disease fibrosis score (NFS) and fibrosis‐4 index (FIB‐4).

Results

The prevalence of clinically significant fibrosis in the cohort was 2.2%. The proportion of subjects with a “low‐risk” SAFE score was the highest (91.0%), followed by those with “intermediate‐risk” (7.8%) and “high‐risk” (1.2%) scores. The prevalence of fibrosis in subjects with low‐risk, intermediate‐risk, and high‐risk scores was 1.6%, 6.6%, and 21.1%, respectively. The SAFE outperformed FIB‐4 and NFS (area under the curve: 0.70 vs 0.64 for both NFS and FIB‐4). However, it showed low diagnostic accuracy and sensitivity (27%) at the low cutoff (SAFE < 0) in subjects aged 30–39 years (fibrosis: 1.2%), despite having a high negative predictive value (0.99).

Conclusion

While the SAFE score demonstrates superior performance compared with other noninvasive tests in Asian subjects with SLD, its performance varies across age groups. In younger subjects, particularly, its performance may be more limited.
The neurological core features of the infantile‐onset multisystem neurologic, endocrine, and pancreatic disease: A novel nonsense mutation in an Italian family
Authors: Mammi Alessia , Geroldi Alessandro , Patrone Serena , Gotta Fabio , Origone Paola , Gaudio Andrea , La Barbera Andrea , Sanguineri Francesca , Ponti Clarissa , Iacomino Michele , Traverso Monica , Ferlazzo Edoardo , Schenone Angelo , Pascarella Angelo , Marsico Oreste , Mandich Paola , Bellone Emilia
Published: June 2024

Aim

Biallelic mutations in the PTRH2 gene have been associated with infantile multisystem neurological, endocrine, and pancreatic disease (IMNEPD), a rare autosomal recessive disorder of variable expressivity characterized by global developmental delay, intellectual disability or borderline IQ level, sensorineural hearing loss, ataxia, and pancreatic insufficiency. Various additional features may be included, such as peripheral neuropathy, facial dysmorphism, hypothyroidism, hepatic fibrosis, postnatal microcephaly, cerebellar atrophy, and epilepsy. Here, we report the first Italian family presenting only predominant neurological features.

Methods

Extensive neurological and neurophysiological evaluations have been conducted on the two affected brothers and their healthy mother since 1996. The diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy of probable hereditary origin was confirmed through a sural nerve biopsy. Exome sequencing was performed after the analysis of major neuropathy‐associated genes yielded negative results.

Results

Whole‐exome sequencing analysis identified the homozygous substitution c.256C>T (p.Gln86Ter) in the PTRH2 gene in the two siblings. According to American College of Medical Genetics and Genomics (ACMG) guidelines, the variant has been classified as pathogenic.

At 48 years old, the proband's reevaluation confirmed a demyelinating sensorimotor polyneuropathy with bilateral sensorineural hearing loss that had been noted since he was 13. Additionally, drug‐resistant epileptic seizures occurred when he was 32 years old. No hepatic or endocrinological signs developed. The younger affected brother, 47 years old, has an overlapping clinical presentation without epilepsy.

Interpretation

Our findings expand the clinical phenotype and further demonstrate the clinical heterogeneity related to PTRH2 variants. We thereby hope to better define IMNEPD and facilitate the identification and diagnosis of this novel disease entity.
Monoclonal gammopathy‐associated peripheral neuropathies: Uncovering pearls and challenges
Authors: Gonçalves Trajano Aguiar Pires , Donadel Camila Derminio , Frezatti Rodrigo Siqueira Soares , Garibaldi Pedro Manoel Marques , Calado Rodrigo T. , Marques Junior Wilson , Tomaselli Pedro José
Published: June 2024

Monoclonal gammopathy‐related peripheral neuropathies encompass a spectrum of clinical presentations in which the monoclonal protein directly damages the tissues, including the peripheral nervous system. Given the prevalence of both peripheral neuropathy and monoclonal gammopathy in the general population, these conditions may overlap in clinical practice, posing a challenge for clinicians in determining causality. Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of primary clinical syndromes and their neurophysiological patterns is of great importance for accurate differential diagnoses and effective treatment strategies. In this article, we examine the main forms of monoclonal gammopathies that affect the peripheral nerve. We explore the clinical and electrophysiological aspects and their correlation with each syndrome's corresponding monoclonal protein type. This knowledge is essential for healthcare professionals to diagnose better and manage patients presenting with monoclonal gammopathy‐related peripheral nervous system involvement.
Utilization of blockchain technology in personalized nursing: A scoping review
Authors: Chen Li , Huang Jie , Zhu DanNi , Yang You
Published: June 2024

Aim and Objective

This study aims to scrutinize the interconnected concepts, prevailing landscape and efficacy of personalized nursing within the framework of blockchain technology and to proffer a roadmap for prospective scholarly inquiries.

Background

The ethos of personalized nursing as a paradigm grounded in human‐centered care has been venerated as the pinnacle of nursing practice. Recent years have witnessed the emergence of groundbreaking technologies, notably blockchain, which have set the stage for the actualization of personalized nursing care. Nevertheless, a lacuna persists in the holistic comprehension surrounding the integration of blockchain technology within the domain of personalized nursing.

Design and Methods

We considered studies published in English from 2018 to the present. Databases searched included CINAHL, Pubmed, MEDLINE, Scopus. Sources of grey literature that were searched included ProQuest Dissertations and Theses. The eligibility of the studies was independently appraised by a pair of researchers. The findings are delineated through narratives and tabular presentations.

Results

The narrative findings are stratified into three primary domains: (1) the theoretical underpinnings of personalized nursing vis‐à‐vis the integration of blockchain technology; (2) delineation of the specific domains within nursing where blockchain applications are germane to personalized nursing; and (3) the demonstrable impact of blockchain technology on the efficacy of personalized nursing.

Conclusion

Blockchain technology has wrought profound transformations in the landscape of personalized nursing. As blockchain technology continues to evolve, future scholarship necessitates elucidation on the conceptual intricacies of personalized nursing interfaced with blockchain technology, and broadening of the research purview to encompass a comprehensive understanding of the various applications of personalized nursing.

Reporting Method

This scoping review adhered to relevant EQUATOR guidelines and used the PRISMA‐ScR.
The impact of wearing complete denture in one or both arches, on eating‐related quality of life and patients' perceived need for advice to support eating well: Results from a qualitative study
Authors: Chu Melissa , Ibrahim Amal Mamdouh B. R. , Moores Carly J. , Moynihan Paula
Published: June 2024

Background

Wearing complete denture in one or both arches can impact enjoyment of eating and affect quality of life compared with being dentate. Clinicians focus on issuing technically sound dentures but ignore the impact of wearing dentures on the eating‐related quality of life which affects the success of treatment.

Objectives

The aim of this research was to qualitatively explore ERQoL in Australian adults wearing complete dentures using a validated questionnaire and through focus groups.

Methods

Complete denture wearers (n = 44) were recruited from dental clinics and invited to complete the self‐administered Emotional and Social Issues Related to Eating questionnaire. Responses were categorised under the six questionnaire domains. A subsample of 20 participants who completed the questionnaire were invited to participate in focus groups to identify emerging themes.

Results

Twenty‐three participants (52.3%) completed the questionnaire. Most participants expressed a decline in enjoyment of eating due to reduced ability to eat, longer chewing times and the need to frequently clean dentures while eating. Focus groups (n = 2 × 4 participants) indicated educational materials on eating with dentures would increase recognition of eating problems with dentures and reduce trial and error approaches to dealing with these.

Conclusion

ERQoL is adversely affected by wearing complete dentures due to functional limitations, restricted food choices and adaptive eating behaviours. Patient support for eating well with a complete denture/s wearers is required.
The test of masticating and swallowing solids (ToMaSS): An investigation of applicability and clinical utility in children with orofacial myofunctional disorders
Authors: Lorenz Marlene , Goetze Danae , Sargolzaei Kian , Frank Ulrike
Published: June 2024

Background

Orofacial myofunctional disorders (OMD) are often associated with limitations of oral ingestion of solid food. The Test of Masticating and Swallowing Solids (ToMaSS) is a simple diagnostic tool to assess and quantify oropharyngeal efficiency while eating a standardised cracker.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to investigate the applicability and clinical utility of the ToMaSS in children with OMD.

Methods

In this case–control study, data were collected from 18 children between 4 and 11 years with confirmed OMD. Inter‐rater reliability and age effects on the ToMaSS parameters were investigated and the specific performance profile of the OMD children was identified.

Results

Inter‐rater reliability was excellent for the ToMaSS parameters ‘bites’ (ICC = .999), ‘masticatory cycles’ (ICC = .961), ‘time’(ICC≧ .999) and good for ‘number of swallows’ (ICC = .810). ‘Masticatory cycles’ and ‘time’ decreased as a function of age with a significant difference in the ‘number of masticatory cycles’ between the youngest (4–6 years) and oldest (10–14 years) participants (p = .006, Z = −2.739). Deviations from normative data in at least one of the four ToMaSS parameters were found in 90% of the OMD children with ‘bites’, and ‘masticatory cycles’ predominantly corresponding to the performances expected in typically‐developing children in younger age groups.

Conclusions

The ToMaSS is a reliable diagnostic instrument and clinically useful to detect limited efficiency of oral solid bolus intake and specific impairments in chewing function and duration of food intake in children with OMD. Our data suggest that OMD is associated with delayed development of efficient solid bolus preparation.
Biomechanism of abnormal stress on promoting osteoarthritis of temporomandibular joint through Piezo1 ion channel
Authors: Li Meng‐Jia , Li Chen‐Xi , Li Jia‐Yu , Gong Zhong‐Cheng , Shao Bo , Zhou Yu‐Chuan , Xu Ying‐Jie , Jia Meng‐Ying
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aimed to investigate whether flow fluid shear stress (FFSS)‐mediated signal transduction affects the function of Piezo1 ion channel in chondrocyte and to further explore the role of mechanical overloading in development of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis (TMJ OA).

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining was used to determine the expression of Piezo1 in TMJ OA tissue collected from rat unilateral anterior crossbite (UAC) models. Chondrocytes harvested from normal adult SD rats were treated with FFSS (0, 4, 8, 12 dyn/cm2) in vitro. Immunofluorescent staining, real‐time polymerase chain reaction, western blotting, flow cytometry and phalloidin assay were performed to detect the changes of cellular morphology as well as the expression of Piezo1 and certain pro‐inflammatory and degradative factors in chondrocyte.

Results

Immunohistochemical analysis revealed that significantly increased Piezo1 expression was associated with UAC stimulation (p < .05). As applied FFSS escalated (4, 8 and 12 dyn/cm2), the expression levels of Piezo1, ADAMTS‐5, MMP‐13 and Col‐X gradually increased, compared with the non‐FFSS group (p < .05). Administering Piezo1 ion channel inhibitor to chondrocytes beforehand, it was observed that expression of ADAMTS‐5, MMP‐13 and Col‐X was substantially decreased following FFSS treatment (p < .05) and the effect of cytoskeletal thinning was counteracted. The activated Piezo1 ion channel enhanced intracellular Ca2+ excess in chondrocytes during abnormal mechanical stimulation and the increased intracellular Ca2+ thinned the cytoskeleton of F‐actin.

Conclusions

Mechanical overloading activates Piezo1 ion channel to promote pro‐inflammation and degradation and to increase Ca2+ concentration in chondrocyte, which may eventually result in TMJ OA.