bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Building a welfare system through bounded learning: A case of Korean long‐term care insurance
Authors: Yun Migyeong , Kim Won Sub
Published: July 2023

This article verifies three conditions in its aim to confirm the influence of Japan's experience on the introduction timing and policy model of South Korean long‐term care insurance (LTCI). First, the LTCI systems in Korea and Japan agree in terms of their core principles. Both are based on a separate social insurance system and ensure financial sustainability at the expense of service quality in response to the need to elevate expenditure. Second, the policymaking process reveals the reference relationship between the two systems. The advocacy coalition for LTCI suggested introducing an LTCI based on Japan's experience. However, their rationale was constrained due to the bounded rationality of policy learning. Finally, this article demonstrates that the rival arguments cannot completely explain the introduction of the Korean LTCI without considering the bounded learning argument. Consequently, the results of this study indicate that policy learning is critical to welfare development in latecomer welfare states.
Dose‐dependent expression of GFI1 alters metabolism in the haematopoietic progenitors and MLL::AF9‐induced leukaemic cells
Authors: Patnana Pradeep Kumar , Liu Longlong , Frank Daria , Nimmagadda Subbaiah Chary , Behrens Matthias , Ahmed Helal , Xie Xiaoqing , Liebmann Marie , Wei Lanying , Gerdemann Andrea , Thivakaran Aniththa , Humpf Hans‐Ulrich , Klotz Luisa , Dugas Martin , Varghese Julian , Trajkovic‐Arsic Marija , Siveke Jens T. , Hanenberg Helmut , Opalka Bertram , Dührsen Ulrich , Reinhardt Hans Christian , Guenther Ulrich , von Bubnoff Nikolas , Khandanpour Cyrus
Published: July 2023

Growth factor independence 1 (GFI1) is a transcriptional repressor protein that plays an essential role in the differentiation of myeloid and lymphoid progenitors. We and other groups have shown that GFI1 has a dose‐dependent role in the initiation, progression, and prognosis of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) patients by inducing epigenetic changes. We now demonstrate a novel role for dose‐dependent GFI1 expression in regulating metabolism in haematopoietic progenitor and leukaemic cells. Using in‐vitro and ex‐vivo murine models of MLL::AF9‐induced human AML and extra‐cellular flux assays, we now demonstrate that a lower GFI1 expression enhances oxidative phosphorylation rate via upregulation of the FOXO1‐ MYC axis. Our findings underscore the significance of therapeutic exploitation in GFI1‐low‐expressing leukaemia cells by targeting oxidative phosphorylation and glutamine metabolism.
Children's judgments on the acceptability of prejudice
Authors: Spence Jessica L. , Neldner Karri , Hornsey Matthew J. , Imuta Kana
Published: July 2023

By middle childhood, children become aware that discriminatory behavior is unacceptable; however, the development of their anti‐prejudice sentiments is largely unknown. Across two studies, 333 Australian 5‐ to 10‐year‐olds (51% female, majority White) were asked how acceptable they thought it was to have prejudicial sentiments toward 25 different targets. Children responded privately through a novel digital paradigm designed to minimize social‐desirability biases. With age, children were more likely to display anti‐prejudice sentiments toward targets who are prosocial, vulnerable, and of minority race and linguistic backgrounds. In contrast, they judged prejudice as “okay” for targets who are antisocial and negatively regarded in society. These findings suggest that children's perceptions of prejudice become increasingly nuanced and adult‐like across the primary school years.
Intensive mannitol slow infusion post‐stenting may attenuate stenting‐related early adverse effects in patients with cerebral venous sinus stenosis
Authors: Han Guangyu , Wan Shuling , Dandu Chaitu , Zhou Da , Ding Yuchuan , Ji Xunming , Meng Ran
Published: July 2023

Aims

To analyze intensive slow mannitol poststenting on attenuating stenting‐related early adverse effects in cerebral venous sinus stenosis (CVSS).

Methods

This real‐world study enrolled subacute or chronic CVSS patients from January 2017 through March 2022 and divided them into DSA only and stenting post‐DSA groups. The later group was subdivided into control (without extra mannitol use) and intensive slow mannitol subgroup (immediate extra mannitol 250–500 mL, 2 mL/min infusion post‐stenting) after signed informed consent. All data were compared.

Results

A total of 95 eligible patients entered into final analysis, in which 37 cases underwent DSA only and 58 cases underwent stenting post‐DSA. Finally, 28 patients were entered into intensive slow mannitol subgroup and 30 in control. Stenting group vs. DSA group, HIT‐6 scores and WBC counts were higher in the former (both p < 0.001). Intensive slow mannitol subgroup vs. control on the third day post‐stenting, a statistically significant reductions were noticed in the former on WBC counts (6.19 ± 1.86 × 109/L vs. 9.59 ± 2.05 × 109/L); HIT‐6 scores (degree of headache) (40.00 (38.00–40.00) vs. 49.00 (41.75–55.25)) and brain edema surrounding the stent on CT maps (17.86% vs.96.67%), all p < 0.001.

Conclusions

Stenting‐related severe headache, inflammatory biomarkers elevation, and brain edema aggravation can be attenuated by intensive slow mannitol infusion.
Categorical Updating in a Bayesian Propensity Problem
Authors: Dewitt Stephen H. , Adler Nine , Li Carmen , Stoilova Ekaterina , Fenton Norman E. , Lagnado David A.
Published: July 2023

We present three experiments using a novel problem in which participants update their estimates of propensities when faced with an uncertain new instance. We examine this using two different causal structures (common cause/common effect) and two different scenarios (agent‐based/mechanical). In the first, participants must update their estimate of the propensity for two warring nations to successfully explode missiles after being told of a new explosion on the border between both nations. In the second, participants must update their estimate of the accuracy of two early warning tests for cancer when they produce conflicting reports about a patient. Across both experiments, we find two modal responses, representing around one‐third of participants each. In the first, “Categorical” response, participants update propensity estimates as if they were certain about the single event, for example, certain that one of the nations was responsible for the latest explosion, or certain about which of the two tests is correct. In the second, “No change” response, participants make no update to their propensity estimates at all. Across the three experiments, the theory is developed and tested that these two responses in fact have a single representation of the problem: because the actual outcome is binary (only one of the nations could have launched the missile; the patient either has cancer or not), these participants believe it is incorrect to update propensities in a graded manner. They therefore operate on a “certainty threshold” basis, whereby, if they are certain enough about the single event, they will make the “Categorical” response, and if they are below this threshold, they will make the “No change” response. Ramifications are considered for the “categorical” response in particular, as this approach produces a positive‐feedback dynamic similar to that seen in the belief polarization/confirmation bias literature.
Associations of HLA‐C*01:02 and HLA‐B*46:01 with regorafenib‐induced erythema multiforme in Japanese patients with metastatic colorectal cancer
Authors: Fujita Ken‐ichi , Matsumoto Natsumi , Murase Remi , Takeshima Kosuke , Ishida Hiroo , Kubota Yutaro
Published: July 2023

Regorafenib improves the survival of patients with metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC); however, it is also characterized by detrimental dermal side effects that may require treatment cessation or modified dosing. In our previous prospective pharmacokinetic, pharmacodynamic, and pharmacogenetic studies, 17.5% (7/40) of the patients with mCRC had grade 3 erythema multiforme (EM) that caused treatment discontinuation. Haplotypes in genes encoding human leukocyte antigen (HLA) are associated with EM following the administration of drugs, such as allopurinol. This study examined the association between HLA haplotypes and regorafenib‐induced EM. Regorafenib was administered orally at 160 mg/body once daily for weeks 1–3 of each 4‐week cycle. To determine the HLA haplotypes, we used the WAKFlow HLA Typing Kit HLA‐A, ‐B, or ‐C. The carrier frequency of HLA‐C*01:02 in patients with EM (6/7) was higher than that in tolerant controls (8/33; odds ratio [OR] = 18.8, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.95–180, p = 0.00437). HLA‐B*46:01 was also associated with EM (OR = 11.6, 95% CI = 1.47–92.1, p = 0.0299). These associations were no longer significant after Bonferroni correction for multiple testing. Therefore, regorafenib‐induced EM in Japanese patients appears to be associated with specific HLA haplotypes but further validation is needed.
Multiple facets of biodiversity are threatened by mining‐induced land‐use change in the Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Lloyd Thomas J. , Oliveira Ubirajara , Soares‐Filho Britaldo S. , Fuller Richard A. , Butt Nathalie , Ascher John S. , Barbosa João Paulo Peixoto Pena , Batista João Aguiar Nogueira , Brescovit Antonio D. , de Carvalho Claudio J. B. , De Marco Paulo , Ferro Viviane Gianluppi , Leite Felipe Sá Fortes , Löwenberg‐Neto Peter , Paglia Adriano Pereira , de Rezende Daniella Teixeira , Santos Adalberto J. , Silva Daniel Paiva , de Vasconcelos Marcelo Ferreira , Sonter Laura J.
Published: July 2023

Aim

Mining is increasingly pressuring areas of critical importance for biodiversity conservation, such as the Brazilian Amazon. Biodiversity data are limited in the tropics, restricting the scope for risks to be appropriately estimated before mineral licensing decisions are made. As the distributions and range sizes of other taxa differ markedly from those of vertebrates—the common proxy for analysis of risk to biodiversity from mining—whether mining threatens lesser‐studied taxonomic groups differentially at a regional scale is unclear.

Location

Brazilian Amazon.

Methods

We assess risks to several facets of biodiversity from industrial mining by comparing mining areas (within 70 km of an active mining lease) and areas unaffected by mining, employing species richness, species endemism, phylogenetic diversity and phylogenetic endemism metrics calculated for angiosperms, arthropods and vertebrates.

Results

Mining areas contained higher densities of species occurrence records than the unaffected landscape, and we accounted for this sampling bias in our analyses. None of the four biodiversity metrics differed between mining and nonmining areas for vertebrates. For arthropods, species endemism was greater in mined areas. Mined areas also had greater angiosperm species richness, phylogenetic diversity and phylogenetic endemism, although less species endemism than unmined areas.

Main Conclusions

Unlike for vertebrates, facets of angiosperm and arthropod diversity are relatively higher in areas of mining activity, underscoring the need to consider multiple taxonomic groups and biodiversity facets when assessing risk and evaluating management options for mining threats. Particularly concerning is the proximity of mining to areas supporting deep evolutionary history, which may be impossible to recover or replace. As pressures to expand mining in the Amazon grow, impact assessments with broader taxonomic reach and metric focus will be vital to conserving biodiversity in mining regions.
Ethical, legal, and social implications in research biobanking: A checklist for navigating complexity
Authors: Tzortzatou‐Nanopoulou Olga , Akyüz Kaya , Goisauf Melanie , Kozera Łukasz , Mežinska Signe , Th. Mayrhofer Michaela , Slokenberga Santa , Reichel Jane , Croxton Talishiea , Ziaka Alexandra , Makri Marina
Published: July 2023

Biobanks’ activity is based not only on securing the technology of collecting and storing human biospecimen, but also on preparing formal documentation that will enable its safe use for scientific research. In that context, the issue of informed consent, the reporting of incidental findings and the use of Transfer Agreements remain a vast challenge. This paper aims to offer first–hand tangible solutions on those issues in the context of collaborative and transnational biobanking research. It presents a four‐step checklist aiming to facilitate researchers on their compliance with applicable legal and ethical guidelines, when designing their studies, when recruiting participants, when handling samples and data, and when communicating research results and incidental findings. Although the paper reflects the outcomes of the H2020 B3Africa project and examines the transfers from and to the EU as a case study, it presents a global checklist that can be used beyond the EU.
A model‐based approach to predict individual weight loss with semaglutide in people with overweight or obesity
Authors: Strathe Anders , Horn Deborah B. , Larsen Malte Selch , Rubino Domenica , Sørrig Rasmus , Tran Marie Thi Dao , Wharton Sean , Overgaard Rune Viig
Published: July 2023

Aims

To determine the relationship between exposure and weight‐loss trajectories for the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 analogue semaglutide for weight management.

Materials and Methods

Data from one 52‐week, phase 2, dose‐ranging trial (once‐daily subcutaneous semaglutide 0.05–0.4 mg) and two 68‐week phase 3 trials (once‐weekly subcutaneous semaglutide 2.4 mg) for weight management in people with overweight or obesity with or without type 2 diabetes were used to develop a population pharmacokinetic (PK) model describing semaglutide exposure. An exposure‐response model describing weight change was then developed using baseline demographics, glycated haemoglobin and PK data during treatment. The ability of the exposure‐response model to predict 1‐year weight loss based on weight data collected at baseline and after up to 28 weeks of treatment, was assessed using three independent phase 3 trials.

Results

Based on population PK, exposure levels over time consistently explained the weight‐loss trajectories across trials and dosing regimens. The exposure‐response model had high precision and limited bias for predicting body weight loss at 1 year in independent datasets, with increased precision when data from later time points were included in the prediction.

Conclusion

An exposure‐response model has been established that quantitatively describes the relationship between systemic semaglutide exposure and weight loss and predicts weight‐loss trajectories for people with overweight or obesity who are receiving semaglutide doses up to 2.4 mg once weekly.
Effects of different treatment modalities on biomechanical behavior of maxillary incisors with external invasive cervical resorption at different progression levels
Authors: Askerbeyli Örs Sevinc , Küçükkaya Eren Selen
Published: July 2023

Background/Aim

This study aimed to evaluate the biomechanical behavior of maxillary incisors with external invasive cervical resorption (EICR) at different progression levels after receiving different modes of treatment under occlusal forces using finite element analysis (FEA).

Materials and Methods

Three‐dimensional (3D) models of intact maxillary central incisors were constructed and modified to include EICR cavities with different progression levels in the buccal cervical areas. The EICR cavities confined to dentin were repaired using Biodentine™ (Septodont Ltd., Saint Maur des Fausse ́s, France), resin composite, or glass ionomer cement (GIC) . Additionally, EICR cavities with pulp invasion requiring direct pulp capping were simulated as repaired using Biodentine only or 1 mm thick Biodentine and either resin composite or GIC for the rest of the cavity. Moreover, models with root canal treatment and EICR defects repaired using Biodentine, resin composites, or GIC were also generated. A force of 240 N was applied to the incisal edge. The principal stresses in the dentin were evaluated.

Results

GIC showed more favorable results than the other materials in EICR cavities confined to the dentin. However, Biodentine alone resulted in more favorable minimum principal stresses (Pmin) compared to other materials in EICR cavities with close pulp proximity. Exceptionally, the models localized in the coronal third of the root with a circumferential extension of the cavity >90° showed more favorable results for GIC. The presence of root canal treatment had no significant effect on stress values.

Conclusions

Based on this FEA study the use of GIC in EICR lesions confined to the dentin is recommended. However, Biodentine may be a better option for restoring EICR lesions close to the pulp with or without root canal treatment. Except when the circumferential extension of the cavity is >90°, the use of GIC may be more advantageous.
Human hippocampal astrocytes: Computational dissection of their transcriptome, sexual differences and exosomes across ageing and mild‐cognitive impairment
Authors: Guebel Daniel V.
Published: July 2023

The role of astrocytes in Alzheimer's disease is often disregarded. Hence, characterization of astrocytes along their early evolution toward Alzheimer would be greatly beneficial. However, due to their exquisite responsiveness, in vivo studies are difficult. So public microarray data of hippocampal homogenates from (healthy) young, (healthy) elder and elder with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were subjected to re‐analysis by a multi‐step computational pipeline. Ontologies and pathway analyses were compared after determining the differential genes that, belonging to astrocytes, have splice forms. Likewise, the subset of molecules exportable to exosomes was also determined. The results showed that astrocyte's phenotypes changed significantly. While already ‘activated’ astrocytes were found in the younger group, major changes occurred during ageing (increased vascular remodelling and response to mechanical stimulus, diminished long‐term potentiation and increased long‐term depression). MCI's astrocytes showed some ‘rejuvenated’ features, but their sensitivity to shear stress was markedly lost. Importantly, most of the changes showed to be sex biassed. Men's astrocytes are enriched in a type ‘endfeet‐astrocytome’, whereas women's astrocytes appear close to the ‘scar‐forming’ type (prone to endothelial dysfunction, hypercholesterolemia, loss of glutamatergic synapses, Ca+2 dysregulation, hypoxia, oxidative stress and ‘pro‐coagulant’ phenotype). In conclusion, the computational dissection of the networks based on the hippocampal gene isoforms provides a relevant proxy to in vivo astrocytes, also revealing the occurrence of sexual differences. Analyses of the astrocytic exosomes did not provide an acceptable approximation to the overall functioning of astrocytes in the hippocampus, probably due to the selective cellular mechanisms which charge the cargo molecules.
Where there is suffering, there is sympathy: The speech act Sympathize in learning Chinese as a foreign language
Authors: Wang Zepeng , Mao Yansheng , Long Fangfang
Published: July 2023

The present paper aims to explore the performance of Sympathize as a speech act by advanced learners of Chinese as a foreign language (CFL). We collected data from both 16 advanced CFL learners and 16 native speakers of Chinese through a DCT, and we then asked 10 native speakers of Chinese to rate the appropriacy of the DCTs provided by the two groups. The results of our analysis show that the language use of native speakers and advanced learners only differed significantly when they employed three strategies “Minimize the negativity of the events,” “Analyze the negative events objectively,” and “Look at problems from a positive perspective,” while their behavior only marginally differed when it came to the two strategies of “Release the listeners’ negative emotions” and “Encourage.” However, learners received overall lower scores than native speakers regarding the appropriateness of their sympathizing expressions.
Calreticulin: Endoplasmic reticulum Ca2+ gatekeeper
Authors: Michalak Marek
Published: July 2023

Endoplasmic reticulum (ER) luminal Ca2+ is vital for the function of the ER and regulates many cellular processes. Calreticulin is a highly conserved, ER‐resident Ca2+ binding protein and lectin‐like chaperone. Over four decades of studying calreticulin demonstrate that this protein plays a crucial role in maintaining Ca2+ supply under different physiological conditions, in managing access to Ca2+ and how Ca2+ is used depending on the environmental events and in making sure that Ca2+ is not misused. Calreticulin plays a role of ER luminal Ca2+ sensor to manage Ca2+‐dependent ER luminal events including maintaining interaction with its partners, Ca2+ handling molecules, substrates and stress sensors. The protein is strategically positioned in the lumen of the ER from where the protein manages access to and distribution of Ca2+ for many cellular Ca2+‐signalling events. The importance of calreticulin Ca2+ pool extends beyond the ER and includes influence of cellular processes involved in many aspects of cellular pathophysiology. Abnormal handling of the ER Ca2+ contributes to many pathologies from heart failure to neurodegeneration and metabolic diseases.
Ontogenetic change in effectiveness of chemical defence against different predators in Oxycarenus true bugs
Authors: Raška Jan , Chalušová Kateřina , Krajiček Jan , Čabala Radomír , Bosáková Zuzana , Štys Pavel , Exnerová Alice
Published: July 2023

Many prey species change their antipredator defence during ontogeny, which may be connected to different potential predators over the life cycle of the prey. To test this hypothesis, we compared reactions of two predator taxa – spiders and birds – to larvae and adults of two invasive true bug species, Oxycarenus hyalinipennis and Oxycarenus lavaterae (Heteroptera: Oxycarenidae) with life-stage-specific chemical defence mechanisms. The reactions to larvae and adults of both true bug species strikingly differed between the two predator taxa. The spiders were deterred by the defences of adult bugs, but the larval defences were ineffective against them. By contrast, birds attacked the larvae considerably less often than the adult bugs. The results indicate a predator-specific ontogenetic change in defence effectiveness of both Oxycarenus species. The change in defence is likely linked to the life-stage-specific composition of secretions in both species: whereas secretions of larvae are dominated by unsaturated aldehydes, secretions of adults are rich in terpenoids, which probably serve dual function of defensive chemicals and pheromones. Our results highlight the variation in defence between different life stages and the importance of testing responses of different types of predators.

Abstract

To assess the inter- and intraspecific differences in defence of a model prey, the seed bugs (Oxycarenus spp.), we presented the bugs to two predator taxa, jumping spiders and birds (great and blue tits). The experiments revealed a predator-specific ontogenetic change in defence efficacy in the tested prey: while the larval defences were effective only against birds, the adult defences were more effective against spiders.
Isotopic niches do not follow the expectations of niche conservatism in the bird genus Cinclodes
Authors: Rader Jonathan A. , Matute Daniel R.
Published: July 2023

Phenotypic traits are expected to be more similar among closely related species than among species that diverged long ago (all else being equal). This pattern, known as phylogenetic niche conservatism, also applies to traits that are important to determine the niche of species. To test this hypothesis on ecological niches, we analysed isotopic data from 254 museum study skins from 12 of the 16 species of the bird genus Cinclodes and measured stable isotope ratios for four different elements: carbon, nitrogen, hydrogen and oxygen. We find that all traits, measured individually, or as a composite measurement, lack any phylogenetic signal, which in turn suggests a high level of lability in ecological niches. We compared these metrics to the measurements of morphological traits in the same genus and found that isotopic niches are uniquely evolutionarily labile compared to other traits. Our results suggest that, in Cinclodes, the realized niche evolves much faster than expected by the constraints of phylogenetic history and poses the question of whether this is a general pattern across the tree of life

Abstract

We studied the pace of evolution of morphology and ecology in Cinclodes ovenbirds using stable isotope analysis, morphometrics, and comparative phylogenetics. We show that niche characteristics of Cinclodes have lower phylogenetic signal, and are less phylogenetically conserved than their morphology, suggesting that ecological evolution has proceeded at a faster pace than morphology alone would suggest in these birds.
Validating blueline tilefish Caulolatilus microps ages in the U.S. South Atlantic using bomb radiocarbon (F14C)
Authors: Spanik Kevin R. , Ballenger Joseph C.
Published: July 2023

Age validation is a critical component of an age‐based stock assessment and subsequent species management. Our study used bomb radiocarbon analysis to validate age estimates of Blueline Tilefish Caulolatilus microps, a species for which regional stock assessment scientists have identified age validation as a high priority. We compared a C. microps F14C chronology to F14C chronologies for finfish of the U.S. South Atlantic Bight (SAB) and the north‐west Atlantic. The high degree of correspondence in the chronologies exhibited for C. microps and other species of the SAB suggests a differential 14C uptake pattern in the SAB slope waters that is likely the result of local hydrological processes that delay 14C reaching the environments inhabited by these species. Our study was able to validate C. microps ages up to 25 years in the SAB, with strong evidence suggesting they are living to at least 50 years old.
Alcohol and the mechanisms of liver disease
Authors: Chen Mo , Zhong Wanglei , Xu Weiqi
Published: July 2023

Alcoholic liver disease (ALD), which is a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide, covers a large spectrum of liver injuries ranging from simple steatosis to steatohepatitis, advanced fibrosis, cirrhosis, and hepatocellular carcinoma. The pathogenesis of ALD includes genetic and epigenetic alterations, oxidative stress, acetaldehyde‐mediated toxicity and cytokine and chemokine‐induced inflammation, metabolic reprogramming, immune damage, and dysbiosis of the gut microbiota. This review discusses the progress in the pathogenesis and molecular mechanism of ALD, which could provide evidence for further research on the potential therapeutic strategies targeting these pathways.
Safety of infraorbital hyaluronic acid injections: Outcomes of a meta‐analysis on prospective clinical trials
Authors: Nikolis Andreas , Enright Kaitlyn M. , Berros Philippe , Sampalis John S.
Published: July 2023

Background

Hollowing of the infraorbital region represents a common concern among aesthetic patients. In the past decade, an increasing number of patients have resorted to noninvasive aesthetic procedures to treat these concerns. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety profile of infraorbital hyaluronic acid injections for aesthetic rejuvenation.

Methods

Through a systematic review and meta‐analysis of prospective clinical trials, investigators sought to answer the research question “Does the use of needle versus cannula during infraorbital HA injections result in the same incidence rate of adverse events?” The primary outcomes of interest were the incidence rates of ecchymosis and edema in subject groups treated with a needle or cannula.

Results

Subjects treated with needles had a statistically significant greater incidence rate of ecchymosis, compared to those treated with cannula. Conversely, subjects treated with cannula had a statistically significant greater incidence rate of edema, compared to those treated with needles.

Conclusions

The incidence rates of adverse events following the administration of hyaluronic acid injections in the infraorbital region vary depending on whether a needle or cannula is used; with needles being associated with a greater risk of ecchymosis and cannulas being associated with a greater risk of edema. These findings should be discussed with patients prior to treatment consultation. Finally, as with most techniques, it is usually prudent to develop expertise with one technique before using a second, especially in cases where both approaches can be used and have different adverse event profiles.
Craniopharyngioma—An update on metabolic and cognitive complications and new therapy
Authors: Erfurth Eva Marie
Published: July 2023

Craniopharyngiomas (CPs) are rare primary brain epithelial tumors arising in the suprasellar region from remnants of Rathke's pouch. About 50% originate at the level of the third ventricle floor, including the hypothalamus (HT). CPs are characterized by a low proliferation rate and symptoms due to mass effect and local infiltration and are managed primarily with surgery and radiotherapy. Gross total removal of a CP will reduce the recurrence rate but increases the risk of HT damage. Today, subtotal resection is the goal and will reduce the risk of HT damage. There are two histological subtypes of CP—adamantinomatous (ACP) and papillary CP (PCP)—that differ in their genesis and age distribution. ACPs are driven by somatic mutations in CTNNB1 gene (encoding β‐catenin), and PCPs frequently harbor somatic BRAF V600E mutations. There are also two phenotypes of outcome, the one with a rather good outcome without HT damage and the other with HT damage where recurrent operation with additional cranial radiotherapy results in HT obesity (HO), affecting psychosocial life and cognitive dysfunction. The group with HO suffers from metabolic syndrome, lower basal metabolic rate, and leptin and insulin resistances. There is currently no successful treatment for HO. The group with HT damage suffers from cognitive dysfunction with attention deficits, impaired episodic memory, and processing speed. Diffusion tensor imaging has shown significant microstructural white matter alteration in several areas important for cognition. Recently, complete or partial tumor response was shown to targeted therapy, with BRAF and Mekinist inhibitors for PCPs with BRAF V600E mutation.
Comparative feasibility and preliminary efficacy of CBT for insomnia among adults seeking and not seeking addiction treatment
Authors: Miller Mary Beth , Freeman Lindsey K. , Helle Ashley C. , Hall Nicole A. , DiBello Angelo M. , McCrae Christina S.
Published: July 2023

Two out of three adults seeking treatment for alcohol or other substance use disorders report co‐occurring symptoms of insomnia. This study compared the feasibility, acceptability, and preliminary efficacy of cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I) among adults seeking and not seeking treatment for substance use. Adults with alcohol or other substance use disorders (n = 22, 32% female, 82% White; Mage = 39.5) completed assessments at baseline, post‐treatment, and at 6 week follow‐up. Of those, 11 were and 11 were not enrolled in substance use treatment. All received CBT‐I. Multiple imputation was used for missing data. Data were analysed using repeated measures analyses of variance. In the substance use treatment group, 6/11 completed post and 5/11 completed follow‐up. In the non‐treatment group, 9/11 completed post and 7/11 completed follow‐up. Participants in both groups reported improvements in insomnia severity, sleep onset latency, and dysfunctional beliefs about sleep, with most effects evident at post and follow‐up. There was a marginal group‐by‐time interaction in the change in frequency of substance use, with only participants not in substance use treatment reporting decreases at follow‐up. Participants in substance use treatment reported significant reductions in substance‐related problems and symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder over time; however, they also reported more symptoms at baseline. CBT‐I produces similar reductions in insomnia but is relatively less feasible among individuals in (versus not in) treatment for substance use disorder. This may be due to the more complex logistics of accessing CBT‐I among those in treatment. We speculate that integrating CBT‐I into treatment for addictions may improve feasibility in this population. clinicaltrials.gov NCT04198311.
Three‐amino acid loop extension homeodomain proteins regulate stress responses and encystation in Entamoeba
Authors: Meenakshi   , Balbhim Sonar Shubham , Sarkar Shilpa , Vasudevan Madavan , Ghosh Sudip K.
Published: July 2023

It is interesting to identify factors involved in the regulation of the encystation of Entamoeba histolytica that differentiate trophozoites into cysts. Evolutionarily conserved three amino acid loop extension (TALE) homeodomain proteins act as transcription factors and execute a variety of functions that are essential for life. A TALE homeodomain (EhHbox) protein‐encoding gene has been identified in E. histolytica (Eh) that is highly upregulated during heat shock, glucose, and serum starvation. Its ortholog, EiHbox1, a putative homeobox protein in E. invadens (Ei), is also highly upregulated during the early hours of encystation, glucose starvation, and heat shock. They belong to the PBX family of TALE homeobox proteins and have conserved residues in the homeodomain that are essential for DNA binding. Both are localized in the nucleus during encystation and under different stress conditions. The electrophoretic mobility shift assay confirmed that the recombinant GST‐EhHbox binds to the reported TGACAG and TGATTGAT motifs. Down‐regulation of EiHbox1 by gene silencing reduced Chitin synthase, Jacob, and increased Jessie gene expression, resulting in defective cysts and decreased encystation efficiency and viability. Overall, our results suggest that the TALE homeobox family has been conserved during evolution and acts as a transcription factor to control the differentiation of Entamoeba by regulating the key encystation‐induced genes.
CO2 laser vaporisation in treating oral lichen planus: A split‐mouth randomised clinical trial
Authors: Ibrahim Rengin , Abdul‐Hak Mahmoud , Kujan Omar , Hamadah Omar
Published: July 2023

Objectives

This study aimed to compare the effectiveness of carbon dioxide (CO2) laser vaporisation versus intralesional injection of triamcinolone acetonide (TA) in the management of oral lichen planus (OLP).

Methods

A randomised clinical trial with a split‐mouth design was conducted on 16 patients with bilateral symptomatic OLP lesions. One side was treated with CO2 laser vaporisation, and the counterpart was treated with TA intralesional injection. The reticular–erythematous–ulcerative (REU) score, Thongprasom sign scoring (TSS), visual analogue scale (VAS) and lesion area were used to evaluate the lesions at weeks 0, 4 and 9. All participants were followed up for 9 months.

Results

Reduction in the REU, TSS scores and lesion area from baseline to the end of treatment was significantly greater in the CO2 group than in the TA group (p values were 0.001, 0.002 and 0.048 respectively). However, the reduction in VAS score did not differ between the two groups (p = 0.54). The recurrence rate was significantly higher in the TA group than in the CO2 group (75% vs. 31.1%; p = 0.016).

Conclusions

CO2 laser vaporisation was more effective than TA intralesional injection in managing OLP and decreased recurrence rates.
Status of yam (Dioscorea spp.) in the Democratic Republic of Congo
Authors: Adejumobi Idris I. , Agre Paterne A. , Adeyinka Adewumi S. , Cipriano Inacio M. , Adheka Joseph G. , Onautshu Didy O.
Published: July 2023

Yam is an important tuber crop with enormous potential to enhance rural sustenance and livelihood in DRC. However, studies to enhance its genetic improvement are very far from sufficient with only a handful of information available on the crop. Yam has been treated as an orphan crop compared to contemporary crops such as cassava and sweet potato which have adapted to different cropping systems and become widespread in production. The lack of research attention to address the major production challenges has further decreased the value and potential of the crop compared to its contemporaries. These production constraints include lack of adequate quality planting materials, low yield potential, poor resistance/tolerance to yam mosaic and anthracnose diseases and ultimately poor tuber quality attributes focusing on tuber taste, flesh oxidation and dry matter contents of the majority of the farmers preferred varieties. In this review, we evaluated the status of yam in DRC and presented the needful activities to be incorporated for its improvement. Diversity has however been maintained mainly through ennoblement efforts in house gardens and small farmlands using traditional farming methods. Studies from other nations where yam has been successful with prominence in characterization and genetic improvement brought to light the need for DRC to consider yam as a staple carbohydrate food source, even to the extent of modifications in food public policy. Reversal of the yam's current stigma is a challenge to the scientific community and the population in general.
Non‐formal peace education founded on European youth work: A practitioner's critical reflection
Authors: Arnøy Joakim
Published: July 2023

This article is a critical self‐reflection on this author's practice of non‐formal peace education. Such critical reflexivity is considered integral to avoid pitfalls that could lead to the peace education activity inadvertently perpetuating structural violence – a phenomenon known as poststructural violence. Examples include unexamined assumptions about key concepts such as peace, inclusion, and rights. The article drives at the idea of discussing a concrete practice against a theoretical framework of critical peace education, exposing tensions between the two to lay the foundations for an improvement of my peace education practice. The discussion is informed by a positionality description of my own journey to become a peace education practitioner, a thematic analysis of the Erasmus+ programme, which is a key funding source, and a description of a concrete peace education project, all of which highlight influencing factors of my practice.
Identity‐reframing interventions: How to effectively highlight individuals' background‐specific strengths
Authors: Bauer Christina A. , Walton Gregory
Published: July 2023

Many low‐status groups are portrayed as deficient. Countering such stigmatizing narratives, identity‐reframing interventions reframe low‐status group members as strong and resourceful agents. This approach can help members of low‐status groups successfully pursue major life goals. In one test, an identity‐reframing intervention increased engagement in an online‐university among refugees by 23% over 1 year. In another, it increased the degree to which people with experiences of depression successfully completed a meaningful self‐chosen goal over 2 weeks. The present review describes how identity‐reframing interventions work on a practical and theoretical level, where they might not work, how they contribute to theory and practice, how they can be adapted to new populations and contexts, and what novel questions they direct us to.
Long QT syndrome‐associated calmodulin variants disrupt the activity of the slowly activating delayed rectifier potassium channel
Authors: McCormick Liam , Wadmore Kirsty , Milburn Amy , Gupta Nitika , Morris Rachael , Held Marie , Prakash Ohm , Carr Joseph , Barrett‐Jolley Richard , Dart Caroline , Helassa Nordine
Published: July 2023

Calmodulin (CaM) is a highly conserved mediator of calcium (Ca2+)‐dependent signalling and modulates various cardiac ion channels. Genotyping has revealed several CaM mutations associated with long QT syndrome (LQTS). LQTS patients display prolonged ventricular recovery times (QT interval), increasing their risk of incurring life‐threatening arrhythmic events. Loss‐of‐function mutations to Kv7.1 (which drives the slow delayed rectifier potassium current, IKs, a key ventricular repolarising current) are the largest contributor to congenital LQTS (>50% of cases). CaM modulates Kv7.1 to produce a Ca2+‐sensitive IKs, but little is known about the consequences of LQTS‐associated CaM mutations on Kv7.1 function. Here, we present novel data characterising the biophysical and modulatory properties of three LQTS‐associated CaM variants (D95V, N97I and D131H). We showed that mutations induced structural alterations in CaM and reduced affinity for Kv7.1, when compared with wild‐type (WT). Using HEK293T cells expressing Kv7.1 channel subunits (KCNQ1/KCNE1) and patch‐clamp electrophysiology, we demonstrated that LQTS‐associated CaM variants reduced current density at systolic Ca2+ concentrations (1 μm), revealing a direct QT‐prolonging modulatory effect. Our data highlight for the first time that LQTS‐associated perturbations to CaM's structure impede complex formation with Kv7.1 and subsequently result in reduced IKs. This provides a novel mechanistic insight into how the perturbed structure–function relationship of CaM variants contributes to the LQTS phenotype.

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Key points

Calmodulin (CaM) is a ubiquitous, highly conserved calcium (Ca2+) sensor playing a key role in cardiac muscle contraction.

Genotyping has revealed several CaM mutations associated with long QT syndrome (LQTS), a life‐threatening cardiac arrhythmia syndrome.

LQTS‐associated CaM variants (D95V, N97I and D131H) induced structural alterations, altered binding to Kv7.1 and reduced IKs.

Our data provide a novel mechanistic insight into how the perturbed structure–function relationship of CaM variants contributes to the LQTS phenotype.
Kinematical Approach to the Drilling Mechanisms for n-Sided Polygonal Holes
Authors: Sorge Francesco
Published: July 2023

The present analysis addresses the generation of regular polygonal paths with any number of sides, odd or even, by use of special rotors revolving with uniquely prescribed motions inside fixed polygonal holes of guidance, which may be coincident or similar to the paths to be traced. The whole rotation motion of the rotor is considered composed of a sequence of Cardan motions so that the active profile of contact is formed by a polycentric sequence of circular arcs. It is shown and proved that the guidance polygon and the target polygon may coincide in the hypothesis of an odd number n of sides, whereas the guidance profile must be larger than the one to be generated for n even, in which case two equal concentric polygons rotated of π/n between each other may be simultaneously generated by two particular points of the rotors. These devices are very useful to drill blind polygonal holes, providing the rotors of proper cutting tools and driving them by constant-speed motors through homokinetic joints.
Computational Assessment of a Novel Solar Calciner
Authors: Syrigou Maria
Published: July 2023

A comprehensive computational study for the assessment of a horizontal solar calciner is presented. The heat and mass transfer models that have been developed give valuable insight and enlighten the fundamental principles that rule the solar-aided CaCO3 decomposition. The obtained computational data are appropriately interpreted and serve as guidelines in order to establish the operational framework of the solar reactor. Additionally, this set of predictive models identifies the optimum values of the key parameters that boost the performance of the process. The models have been validated comparing the computational results with the experimental data and the calciner performance is evaluated, reaching 35.2% efficiency.
Structure and corrosion resistance of electron-beam-strengthened and micro-arc oxidized coatings on magnesium alloy AZ31
Authors: Ma Yinghe , Mei Jinhui , Ouyang Junxin , Wu Peng , Wang Sai , Yang Jianguo , He Yanming , Zheng Wenjian , Li Huaxin , Lu Chuanyang , Ren Sendong , Xu Jianping , Chu Paul K.
Published: July 2023

Micro-arc oxidation (MAO) is very effective to enhance the corrosion performance of Mg alloys. However, the micro-pores in MAO coatings provide a channel for the corrosion medium to reach the alloy matrix. In this work, electron beam strengthening (EBS) is performed to improve the microstructure of the Mg alloy and the MAO coating is prepared subsequently to improve the corrosion performance. The crystalline size of the Mg alloy decreases, the roughness improves, and the corrosion resistance increases. Furthermore, refinement of the grain size by EBS improves the discharge in MAO. The noticeable effect of EBS on the microstructure of the coating lies in the improvement of density, such as porosity reduction by 47.8%. The compactness of the coatings also increases significantly, subsequently improving the corrosion resistance. The corrosion mechanism is proposed.
Hirudomacin: a Protein with Dual Effects of Direct Bacterial Inhibition and Regulation of Innate Immunity
Authors: Du Yu , Shi Hongzhuan , Guo Qiaosheng , Liu Chang , Zhao Kun
Published: July 2023

In today's world, bacterial drug resistance is becoming increasingly serious, and natural antibacterial proteins are attracting attention because of advantages such as their diverse and complex antibacterial modes, lack of residue, and harder-to-develop drug resistance. Notably, there are few antibacterial proteins with multiple effects such as direct antibacterial and innate immunity enhancement at the same time.
The Tomato Brown Rugose Fruit Virus Movement Protein Gene Is a Novel Microbial Source Tracking Marker
Authors: Natarajan Aravind , Fremin Brayon J. , Schmidtke Danica T. , Wolfe Marlene K. , Zlitni Soumaya , Graham Katherine E. , Brooks Erin F. , Severyn Christopher J. , Sakamoto Kathleen M. , Lacayo Norman J. , Kuersten Scott , Koble Jeff , Caves Glorianna , Kaplan Inna , Singh Upinder , Jagannathan Prasanna , Rezvani Andrew R. , Bhatt Ami S. , Boehm Alexandria B.
Published: July 2023

Human exposure to fecal contamination in the environment can cause transmission of infectious diseases. Microbial source tracking (MST) can identify sources of fecal contamination so that contamination can be remediated and human exposures can be reduced.
Mediation of Bacterial Interactions via a Novel Membrane-Based Segregator to Enhance Biological Nitrogen Removal
Authors: Fu Yue , Xu Ronghua , Yang Boyi , Wu Yingxin , Xia Lichao , Tawfik Ahmed , Meng Fangang
Published: July 2023

This study provides an innovative and applicable method for regulating subpopulations (activated sludge and acidogenic consortia), which contributes to the precise control of the metabolic division of labor in biological wastewater treatment processes.
Better Writing, Brick by Brick: a Student-Centered Writing Exercise Using LEGO
Authors: Fitzpatrick Kathleen , Barker Megan K.
Published: July 2023

Supporting student development of clear science communication skills is critically important and incredibly challenging. In this activity, to help students understand the importance of clear written communication, students work in pairs with LEGO bricks.
Complete Genome Sequences of Six Isolates of the Oryctes rhinoceros Nudivirus
Authors: Weston Mitchell K. , Hefer Charles A. , Jacobs Jeanne M. E. , Marshall Sean D. G.
Published: July 2023

Oryctes rhinoceros nudivirus, a double-stranded DNA virus of the family
Nudiviridae
, is an important biocontrol agent of the coconut rhinoceros beetle (Coleoptera: Scarabaeidae). We present the genome sequences of six isolates of Oryctes rhinoceros nudivirus collected from the Philippines, Papua New Guinea, and Tanzania between the years 1977 and 2016.