bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microwave irradiation of guar seed flour: Effect on anti‐nutritional factors, phytochemicals, in vitro protein digestibility, thermo‐pasting, structural, and functional attributes
Authors: Manikpuri Sakshi , Kheto Ankan , Sehrawat Rachna , Gul Khalid , Routray Winny , Kumar Lokesh
Published: February 2024

Guar seed flour (GSF) has a high amount of carbohydrates, proteins, phytochemicals, and anti‐nutritional factors (ANFs), which limits its use. To address this issue, the current study was undertaken to understand the effect of microwave (MW) irradiation on ANFs, phytochemicals, in vitro protein digestibility (IVPD), and functional attributes of GSF at varying power density (Pd: 1–3 W/g) and duration (3–9 min). The ANFs were determined using a colorimetric assay and a Fourier transform infrared spectrum. At 3 Pd‐9 min, the maximum reduction in ANFs (tannin, phytic acid, saponin, and trypsin inhibitor activity) was observed. Higher Pd and treatment duration increased antioxidant activity and total phenolic content, except for total flavonoid content. Furthermore, compared to the control sample (78.38%), the IVPD of the GSF samples increased to 3.28% (3 Pd‐9 min). An increase in Pd and duration of MW treatment improved the thermal and pasting properties of GSF samples up to 2 Pd‐9 min. Due to inter‐ and intramolecular hydrogen bonding degradation, the relative crystallinity of the 3 Pd‐9 min treated GSF sample was 30.58%, which was lower than that of the control (40.08%). In MW‐treated samples, SEM images revealed smaller clusters with rough and porous structures. However, no noticeable color (ΔE) changes were observed in MW‐treated samples. Aside from water absorption capacity and water solubility index, MW treatment reduced oil absorption capacity, foaming capacity, and emulsifying capacity. As demonstrated by principal component analysis, MW irradiation with moderate Pd (2–3) was more effective in reducing ANFs, retaining nutritional contents, and improving the digestible properties of GSF, which could be a potential ingredient for developing gluten‐free products.
A rapid method for identification of Lanxangia tsaoko origin and fruit shape: FT‐NIR combined with chemometrics and image recognition
Authors: He Gang , Yang Shao‐bing , Wang Yuan‐zhong
Published: February 2024

Lanxangia tsaoko’s accurate classifications of different origins and fruit shapes are significant for research in L. tsaoko difference between origin and species as well as for variety breeding, cultivation, and market management. In this work, Fourier transform‐near infrared (FT‐NIR) spectroscopy was transformed into two‐dimensional and three‐dimensional correlation spectroscopies to further investigate the spectral characteristics of L. tsaoko. Before building the classification model, the raw FT‐NIR spectra were preprocessed using multiplicative scatter correction and second derivative, whereas principal component analysis, successive projections algorithm, and competitive adaptive reweighted sampling were used for spectral feature variable extraction. Then combined with partial least squares‐discriminant analysis (PLS‐DA), support vector machine (SVM), decision tree, and residual network (ResNet) models for origin and fruit shape discriminated in L. tsaoko. The PLS‐DA and SVM models can achieve 100% classification in origin classification, but what is difficult to avoid is the complex process of model optimization. The ResNet image recognition model classifies the origin and shape of L. tsaoko with 100% accuracy, and without the need for complex preprocessing and feature extraction, the model facilitates the realization of fast, accurate, and efficient identification.
Patients with both cancer and psychosis—to what extent do they receive specialized palliative care
Authors: Bergqvist Jenny , Hedskog Stina , Hedman Christel , Schultz Torbjörn , Strang Peter
Published: February 2024

Background

Schizophrenia and advanced cancer are complex conditions that impact life expectancy. This study aimed to examine the receipt of specialized palliative care (SPC) in patients with metastatic cancer and a coexisting diagnosis of psychosis compared to patients with cancer only. Secondary objectives included analyzing differences in emergency visits and place of death in relation to receipt of SPC.

Patients and Methods

This retrospective, observational registry study utilized health care consumption data from the Stockholm Regional Council. We included 23,056 patients aged >18 years who died between 2015 and 2021 with a diagnosis of metastatic cancer, hematologic malignancy, or malignant brain tumor in the Stockholm Gotland region. Among them, 320 patients had a concomitant diagnosis of psychosis.

Results

Patients with cancer and psychosis were less likely to receive SPC compared to patients with cancer only (61% vs. 74%, p < 0.001). Additionally, they were, on average, four and a half years younger at the time of death (68.5 years vs. 73.1 years, p < 0.0001), more likely to reside in nursing homes (25% vs. 11%, p < 0.0001), and had a higher prevalence of low area‐based socioeconomic status (46% vs. 32%, p < 0.0001). Receipt of SPC was associated with reduced frequency of emergency visits and a higher probability of place of death to be at home or in a care facility outside the acute hospital.

Conclusions

Patients with a coexisting diagnosis of psychosis and metastatic cancer have a lower probability of receiving SPC. Receipt of specialized palliative care was associated with reduced number of unplanned emergency visits and a lower risk for death at an acute hospital. Efforts are needed to ensure equitable provision of SPC for patients with cancer and psychosis.
The systematic identification of survival‐related alternative splicing events and splicing factors in glioblastoma
Authors: Peng Tao , Liu Zhe , Zhang Yu , Liu Xudong , Zhao Lijun , Ma Ying , Fan Jinke , Song Xinqiang , Wang Lei
Published: February 2024

Glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) is the most common and aggressive primary brain tumor, making it one of the most life‐threatening human cancers. Nevertheless, research on the mechanism of action between alternative splicing (AS) and splicing factor (SF) or biomarkers in GBM is limited. AS is a crucial post‐transcriptional regulatory mechanism. More than 95% of human genes undergo AS events. AS can diversify the expression patterns of genes, thereby increasing the diversity of proteins and playing a significant role in the occurrence and development of tumors. In this study, we downloaded 599 clinical data and 169 transcriptome analysis data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) database. Besides, we collected AS data about GBM from TCGA‐SpliceSeq. The overall survival (OS) related AS events in GBM were determined through least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (Lasso) and Cox analysis. Subsequently, the association of these 1825 OS‐related AS events with patient survival was validated using the Kaplan–Meier survival analysis, receiver operating characteristic curve, risk curve analysis, and independent prognostic analysis. Finally, we depicted the AS–SF regulatory network, illustrating the interactions between splicing factors and various AS events in GBM. Additionally, we identified three splicing factors (RNU4‐1, SEC31B, and CLK1) associated with patient survival. In conclusion, based on AS occurrences, we developed a predictive risk model and constructed an interaction network between GBM‐related AS events and SFs, aiming to shed light on the underlying mechanisms of GBM pathogenesis and progression.
Do you believe Red Bull gives wings? When implicit theories of creativity impair creative performance
Authors: Agogué Marine , Parguel Béatrice , Bendas Anna
Published: February 2024

Everyone seems to have something to say about creativity, thus participating in the reproduction of persistent myths about creativity that may influence creative behaviour. This research explores the influence of Laypeople's Implicit Theories of Creativity (LIToCs) regarding the drivers of creativity on creative performance, to ascertain whether having strong convictions about the drivers of creativity either enhances or hinders creative productivity when these convictions align with the actual methods of stimulating creativity. An experiment randomly involved 69 subjects who were invited to drink the exact same fruit juice before performing a creative task. In one condition, they were told this was indeed juice; in the other condition, they were told that it was mixed with Red Bull. Analyses showed an interaction effect with the subjects' LIToC, such that among subjects displaying strong LIToC, individual creative performance was lower when they perceived the conditions to stimulate creativity were activated, than otherwise. These results suggest that having strong beliefs in the effects of some creativity drivers might then trigger a complacent attitude and reduce the invested effort in generating creative ideas. This research contributes to rethinking how we use specific drivers to stimulate creativity, as strong LIToCs about those drivers may have a counterproductive effect on creative performance.
The Youth Tackling Climate Emergency educational proposal: An opportunity for change
Authors: Vendrell‐Simón Begoña , Recasens Marta Vilar , Robles Alba Galofré , Freixa Clara Soler , Camacho Fran Lama , Colom Àlex Mèlich
Published: February 2024

The main objective of the Youth Tackling Climate Emergency Educational Proposal (YTCEEP) is to involve secondary students in addressing climate action‐related subjects from a local context and in a proactive way. We present an evaluation of its third edition, based on the answers from final surveys assessing knowledge, perceptions and attitudes. Main results show that YTCEEP promotes reflection on environmental and social problems; although knowledge slightly improved on the subthemes researched, moderate–low knowledge on climate change in general was detected. Students do positively consider YTCEEP and the programme provides an educational opportunity to address several Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) related to SDG13.
Heart transplantation from COVID‐positive donors with 6‐month follow‐up: A case series
Authors: Tran Christina , Malhotra Anureet , Dalia Tarun , Mehta Harsh , Arora Sahej , Boda Ilham , Farhoud Hassan , Noonan Grace , Eid Albert , Vidic Andrija , Shah Zubair
Published: February 2024

Background

Data on long term outcomes in heart transplant recipients from Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) positive donors are limited.

Methods and results

We present a series of nine patients who underwent heart transplants from COVID‐19 PCR‐positive donors between November 2021 to August 2022 with mean follow‐up of 12.12 ± 3 months. All the recipients received two doses of COVID‐19 vaccine and had at least 6 months follow‐up. Eight recipients had acceptable long‐term outcomes; one patient died during index admission from primary graft dysfunction. Details regarding donor and recipient characteristics, management and outcomes are provided. Two patients developed deep vein thrombosis, and one patient underwent pacemaker implantation for sinus node dysfunction. Among the surviving eight patients, none developed COVID‐19 infection during follow‐up period. There was no significant difference in outcome parameters when compared to patients who received hearts from donors who tested negative for COVID‐19 during the same time period at our center.

Conclusion

Keeping in mind the significant waitlist mortality in patients awaiting heart transplantation, COVID‐19‐positive donors should be considered for heart transplantation to help expand the donor pool and potentially reduce waitlist mortality.
The impact of high volumes of COVID‐related lung transplant on waitlist mortality for non‐COVID candidates in the United States
Authors: Marshall Maxwell , Diamond Joshua , Goldberg Hilary , Courtwright Andrew
Published: February 2024

Some patients with coronavirus disease 19 (COVID) develop serious, irreversible lung disease, including acute respiratory distress syndrome or pulmonary fibrosis. For select candidates, lung transplant is the only option to improve quality and length of life. Because of the severity of end‐stage COVID‐related lung disease, these candidates receive high allocation priority in the United States, including higher priority than many patients without COVID‐related lung disease. This study assessed whether transplant centers with a large volume of COVID‐related lung transplants experienced an increase in waitlist mortality for non‐COVID transplant candidates. Nineteen centers were included as high‐volume programs, defined as being in the top third of centers who transplanted COVID patients. Of the 2867 non‐COVID patients waitlisted at these centers, there was no significant difference in waitlist mortalities of non‐COVID transplant candidates between the pre‐COVID transplant era (January 2018–February 2020) and during the period of high COVID transplant volume (March 2020–October 2022) (subhazard ratio: .92 [95% CI = .81–1.05], p = .22). Among high volume centers, the decision to transplant and to prioritize patients with COVID‐related lung disease did not significantly impact the waitlist mortality of other candidates.
Telecytology – remote rapid on‐site evaluation for ultrasound‐guided head and neck fine needle aspiration utilising a clinical imaging assistant with an extended practice role
Authors: Martyn Sarah , Wheeldon Leonie
Published: February 2024

Objective

Rapid On‐Site Evaluation (ROSE) of fine needle aspirations (FNA) is widely accepted as best practice, resulting in better outcomes and delivery of care for patients. However, it is not always practical for cytology laboratories to release staff. To increase the availability of ROSE, this study aimed to robustly test the effectiveness of Telecytology ROSE (TCROSE) utilising a clinical imaging assistant (CIA) to prepare the samples and operate the microscope.

Methods

The study was divided into 3 phases. Phase 1, equipment testing, validation and in‐house training for the CIA and the Consultant Biomedical Scientist (CBMS) performing TCROSE. Phase 2, Verifying TCROSE on the same site as the cytology laboratory and phase 3, TCROSE utilising a clinic at a peripheral site away from the cytology laboratory.

Results

78/80 (97% sensitivity, 95% accuracy) of TCROSE cases matched the final report for assessment of adequacy and sufficient sampling, demonstrating 94% reliability with a 95% confidence value. An appropriately trained CIA effectively prepared the samples and operated the microscope for remote interpretation. The samples were triaged effectively, and biopsy requests were appropriate to reduce the need for repeat procedures and delays in treatment. This approach received positive feedback from patients.

Conclusion

TCROSE utilising a CIA provides a highly effective alternative to conventional ROSE, minimising the resources required from cytopathology services and improving patient care and access to best practice. This study supports the validity of trained CIAs for a more involved role in the ultrasound‐guided FNA service.
Insights into Healthcare Design Essentials from Diverse Perspectives
Authors: Wells‐Papanek Doris
Published: February 2024

Much work is yet to be done to transform gaps in services by designing more equitable, accessible, affordable, and empathy‐based healthcare best practices for all humans.

Consider how to use meaningful imagery, purposeful storytelling, and intentional problem‐solving to address the new and changing healthcare landscape in order to create a more sustainable, patient‐centered experience.
Using the Design Culture Framework to Identify Value
Authors: Rodríguez Rodrigo Martínez , Gago Paula Fernández
Published: February 2024

Measuring the value of design remains an obsession for researchers and academics as well as an area of continuous development of models and theories within business management.

How do we measure the value of design? This article looks at the perception of design at different organizational levels and its role in strategic business management, looking specifically at the Design Culture Framework.
Recombinant factor IX Fc for the treatment of hemophilia B
Authors: Ljung Rolf , Matino Davide , Shapiro Amy D.
Published: February 2024

Current hemophilia B treatment guidelines recommend routine prophylaxis with factor IX (FIX) replacement products, tailored to maintain plasma activity at levels that will prevent bleeds. However, plasma FIX activity may not be the primary determinant or best indicator of hemostatic efficacy due to its extravascular distribution. FIX replacement therapy has evolved to include extended half‐life (EHL) products that provide effective bleed protection when administered at intervals of 7 days or longer. rFIXFc is a recombinant fusion protein with an extended circulation time. rFIXFc has a biodistribution profile consistent with distribution into extravascular space, where it may support hemostasis at sites of vessel injury independent of circulating plasma activity levels. The safety and efficacy of rFIXFc prophylaxis is well established in adults, adolescents and children including previously untreated patients with hemophilia B, with substantial evidence from clinical trials and real‐world clinical practice. This review describes the pharmacokinetic characteristics of rFIXFc, summarizes available safety and efficacy data, and evaluates the use of rFIXFc in special populations. Current hemophilia B treatment challenges, including target FIX plasma levels, perioperative use, and management of patients with comorbidities, are discussed together with the potential role of EHL products in the future treatment landscape of hemophilia B.
“The spirit of a fighter”: Mixed‐status Latine immigrant families' experiences during COVID
Authors: Vesely Colleen K. , Letiecq Bethany , Davis Elizabeth , Goodman Rachael , DeMulder Elizabeth , Marquez Marlene ,   Amigas de la Comunidad
Published: February 2024

Objective

Using a community‐based participatory research (CBPR) approach, this study documents Latine immigrant families' work, childcare, and education experiences during the COVID‐19 pandemic to inform policy and practice to support Latine families.

Background

Latine immigrant communities, comprising undocumented and mixed‐status families, were among the hardest hit by the COVID‐19 pandemic. In addition to employment and housing challenges, children and families lost access to the important academic supports and social services built into childcare programs and schools.

Method

For this study, we collected in‐depth qualitative interview data from mothers who were immigrants from Central America and Mexico (N = 23) as part of an ongoing CBPR project. Using community coding techniques, data were analyzed in partnership with our Community Advisory Board, Amigas de la Comunidad.

Results

In the context of illegality, participants and their families who already feared deportation and family separation, faced added burdens during the pandemic including job loss, school and childcare closures, and isolation. Parents worried about meeting their families' basic needs, getting sick, losing loved ones to COVID‐19, and being evicted from their housing.

Conclusion

While participants shared stories of resilience and resistance, they also reflected on stories loss and hardship—experiences that were exacerbated by anti‐immigrant laws and policies that made navigating the pandemic especially punishing for immigrant families.

Implications

On the basis of study findings, program and policy implications for serving Latine children and youth and their immigrant parents, especially those with mixed documentation status, are discussed.
Children's socioemotional skills and fathers' work satisfaction: Mediation of fathers' parenting
Authors: Gong Qiujie , Ju Sehyun , Kramer Karen Z.
Published: February 2024

Objective

In this study, we examined the bidirectional association between fathers' work satisfaction and children's socioemotional skills from T1 (age 2) to T2 (age 4–5) and the mediating role of fathers' parenting.

Background

For many parents, balancing family and work roles can be challenging, particularly for fathers who are now expected to be both “ideal workers” and “involved fathers.” With multiple roles, fathers' experiences at work and in the family may have a mutual influence on each other.

Method

This study used structural equation modeling on secondary data from the Early Childhood Longitudinal Study, Birth Cohort, to examine the associations and mediation mechanisms.

Results

Results indicate a positive association between fathers' work satisfaction at T1 and children's socioemotional skills at T2 through fathers' higher self‐efficacy and lower parenting stress. Additionally, there was a positive association between children's socioemotional skills at T1 and fathers' work satisfaction at T2 through fathers' higher responsibility and lower parenting stress.

Conclusion

Findings provide support for the spillover theory regarding the mutual influence of fathers' work‐related experiences and children's development.

Implications

To help parents balance the demands of work and family, effective parenting education programs and supportive or person‐centered workplace policies are both essential.
Over two decades of research on choice overload: An overview and research agenda
Authors: Jacob Breeze Mary , Thomas Sam , Joseph Joshy
Published: February 2024

Since Alwin Toffler coined the term choice overload in 1970, no systematic literature review has been conducted on this subject. At the same time, the three meta‐analytic studies available on the topic does not provide a comprehensive picture of the same. This systematic literature review seeks to critically evaluate the extant research on choice overload for 22 years using insights from 92 articles. After locating the major articles in the choice overload literature, we identified the theories used by researchers to explain the various aspects of choice overload, based on the TCCM framework. We then enlisted the contexts where the studies had been conducted, the characteristics (themes) of the studies, and the methodologies used in these articles. We further identified the relationships between the themes, the variables studied so far, the sampling types and sampling sizes and the statistical tools employed in these studies. Future researchers could investigate the impact of a variety of cognitive and affective factors that impact consumer psychological states and the likelihood of choice saturation. They could also focus on unexplored areas in the field of choice overload, such as comparing the effects of choice overload in physical and online contexts.
How can valid and reliable automatic formative assessment predict the acquisition of learning outcomes?
Authors: Divjak Blaženka , Svetec Barbi , Horvat Damir
Published: February 2024

Background

Sound learning design should be based on the constructive alignment of intended learning outcomes (LOs), teaching and learning activities and formative and summative assessment. Assessment validity strongly relies on its alignment with LOs. Valid and reliable formative assessment can be analysed as a predictor of students' academic performance, but the question is how significant its predictive power is, and what other elements can affect predictions.

Objectives

Our aim was to investigate the predictive power of formative assessment for summative assessment, measuring the acquisition of LOs.

Methods

We analysed formative assessment results (quizzes, homework), together with log data (video and other material use, class attendance), to determine the most influential predictors and establish a reliable predictive learning analytics model. We used the Random Forest algorithm. The model is based on the data from two university mathematical courses, delivered at different years and levels of study, incorporating 813 students in two consecutive years.

Results and Conclusions

Our results show that formative assessment, together with previous summative assessment, is a stronger predictor of summative assessment results than other data on students' engagement. The study pointed to the importance of completeness and quality of data, and clear links between assessment and LOs when making predictions of student results. It suggested that predictions are less reliable for the lowest and the highest performing students. It was noted that other factors can also affect predictions, like the level of LOs, or factors not easily extracted from digital data, like the learning environment and individual students' strategies.
Using digital gamification to improve language achievement, foreign language enjoyment, and ideal L2 self: A case of English as a foreign language learners
Authors: Liu Gi‐Zen , Fathi Jalil , Rahimi Masoud
Published: February 2024

Background

The impact of digital gamified language learning on language achievement has been corroborated in the literature; however, its impact on language achievement, especially in the English as a foreign language (EFL) context needs further investigation. In addition, the related literature has not sufficiently confirmed the impact of digital gamified language learning on some psychological domains of EFL learning.

Objectives

This study, therefore, employed a sequential explanatory mixed‐methods approach to explore the effects of digital gamified language learning using a mobile application (app) affordances on EFL learners' language achievement, foreign language enjoyment (FLE), and ideal second language (L2) self.

Methods

To this end, 36 EFL learners were randomly divided into two groups; one group was randomly assigned to the digital class, including 19 EFL learners, and the other group was assigned to the non‐digital class, consisting of 17 EFL learners. The digital learners did the digital gamified language learning activities individually and interactively and received peer and instructor feedback, whilst the non‐digital learners did the same language learning activities in printed format and received peer and instructor feedback. A language achievement test, the FLE scale, and the ideal L2 self‐scale were used to collect the quantitative data and an individual semi‐structured interview was carried out to gather the qualitative data.

Results and Conclusions

One‐way ANCOVA, used to analyse the quantitative data, revealed that the digital and non‐digital classes improved the EFL learners' language achievement, FLE, and ideal L2 self; however, the digital learners outperformed their non‐digital counterparts in all the measures. Thematic analysis, utilised to analyse the qualitative data, uncovered some themes about the digital learners' positive and negative attitudes and perceptions towards the digital gamified language learning activities, clarifying the quantitative findings.

Implications

Pedagogical implications are discussed.
Unveiling the positive impact of biofloc culture on Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection of Pacific white shrimp by reducing quorum sensing and virulence gene expression and enhancing immunity
Authors: Widanarni Widanarni , Gustilatov Muhamad , Ekasari Julie , Julyantoro Pande Gde Sasmita , Waturangi Diana Elizabeth , Sukenda Sukenda
Published: February 2024

This study aimed to evaluate and unveil the positive impact of biofloc culture on Vibrio parahaemolyticus infection of Pacific white shrimp by reducing quorum sensing (QS) and virulence gene expression and enhancing shrimp's immunity. The shrimp with an average body weight of 0.50 ± 0.09 g were reared in containers with a volume of 2.5 L, 21 units, and a density of 20 shrimp L−1. The shrimp were cultured for 5 days, with each treatment including biofloc system maintenance with a C/N ratio of 10 and a control treatment without biofloc, followed by a challenge test through immersion using V. parahaemolyticus at densities of 103, 105, and 107 CFU mL−1 initially. The results of the in vitro experiment showed that biofloc suspension can inhibit and disperse biofilm formation, as well as reduce the exo‐enzyme activity (amylase, protease, and chitinase) of V. parahaemolyticus. Furthermore, the biofloc treatment significantly reduced the expression of the QS regulatory gene OpaR, the PirB toxin gene, and the virulence factor genes T6SS1 and T6SS2 in both in vitro and in vivo. The biofloc system also increased the expression of shrimp immunity‐related genes (LGBP, proPO, SP, and PE) and the survival rate of white shrimp challenged with V. parahaemolyticus.
Metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease and hepatocellular carcinoma: a prospective study of characteristics and response to therapy
Authors: Batt NM , Rodrigues B , Bloom S , Sawhney R , George ES , Hodge A , Vootukuru N , McCrae C , Sood Surbhi , Roberts SK , Dev A , Bell S , Thompson A , Ryan MC , Kemp W , Gow PJ , Sood Siddharth , Nicoll AJ
Published: February 2024

Background and Aim

The rising incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) in Australia is related to increasing rates of metabolic‐associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD). This study aimed to prospectively characterize the metabolic profile, lifestyle, biometric features, and response to treatment of HCC patients in an Australian population.

Method

Multicenter prospective cohort analysis of newly diagnosed HCC patients at six multidisciplinary team meetings over a 2‐year period.

Results

Three hundred and thirteen (313) newly diagnosed HCC patients with MAFLD (n = 77), MAFLD plus other liver disease (n = 57) (the “mixed” group), and non‐MAFLD (n = 179) were included in the study. Alcohol‐associated liver disease (ALD) (43%) and MAFLD (43%) were the most common underlying liver diseases. MAFLD‐HCC patients were older (73 years vs 67 years vs 63 years), more likely to be female (40% vs 14% vs 20%), less likely to have cirrhosis (69% vs 88% vs 85%), showed higher ECOG, and were less likely to be identified by screening (29% vs 53% vs 45%). Metabolic syndrome was more prevalent in the MAFLD and mixed groups. The severity of underlying liver disease and HCC characteristics were the same across groups. While the MAFLD population self‐reported more sedentary lifestyles, reported dietary patterns were no different across the groups. Dyslipidemia was associated with tumor size, and those taking statins had a lower recurrence rate.

Conclusion

Equal to ALD, MAFLD is now the most common underlying liver disease seen in HCC patients in Australia. Future HCC prevention screening and treatment strategies need to take this important group of patients into consideration.
GaN atomic electric fields from a segmented STEM detector: Experiment and simulation
Authors: Grieb Tim , Krause Florian F. , Mehrtens Thorsten , Mahr Christoph , Gerken Beeke , Schowalter Marco , Freitag Bert , Rosenauer Andreas
Published: February 2024

Atomic electric fields in a thin GaN sample are measured with the centre‐of‐mass approach in 4D‐scanning transmission electron microscopy (4D‐STEM) using a 12‐segmented STEM detector in a Spectra 300 microscope. The electric fields, charge density and potential are compared to simulations and an experimental measurement using a pixelated 4D‐STEM detector. The segmented detector benefits from a high recording speed, which enables measurements at low radiation doses. However, there is measurement uncertainty due to the limited number of segments analysed in this study.
Choosing to Disagree: Endogenous Dismissiveness and Overconfidence in Financial Markets
Authors: BANERJEE SNEHAL , DAVIS JESSE , GONDHI NAVEEN
Published: February 2024

The psychology literature documents that individuals derive current utility from their beliefs about future events. We show that, as a result, investors in financial markets choose to disagree about both private information and price information. When objective price informativeness is low, each investor dismisses the private signals of others and ignores price information. In contrast, when prices are sufficiently informative, heterogeneous interpretations arise endogenously: most investors ignore prices, while the rest condition on it. Our analysis demonstrates how observed deviations from rational expectations (e.g., dismissiveness, overconfidence) arise endogenously, interact with each other, and vary with economic conditions.
Justice suspended: Rethinking institutions, regimentation, and channels from a human rights law perspective
Authors: Greenberg Jessica R.
Published: February 2024

This article analyzes institutions as sites for political and social change by looking beyond regimentation and fixedness as the central discursive features of institutionalization. Drawing on research at the European Court of Human Rights—one of the world's most extensive human rights courts—I analyze how human rights actors redeploy normative institutional logics through creative approaches to institutional categories. I argue that lawyers and advocates working within the Court and Convention system naturalize and fix boundaries of law and politics and use that distinction to activate an excess of potential meanings and intertextual connections in legal judgments. This involves using institutional affordances to keep cases open and structure collaborative waiting. These strategies allow people to mutually inhabit open‐ended relationships to texts in intentional ways. In so doing, lawyers and activists defer resolving legal judgments—until new coalitions take political power, there are generational shifts in attitudes or shifts in geopolitical power arrangements that render state actors subject to diplomatic pressure. Analyzing how people improvise, learn, and teach others to manage institutional channels and excess opens up the black box of institutionality as a site for social transformation.
Effect of various surface treatments on relining bond strength of CAD‐CAM denture base materials
Authors: Karaokutan Isil , Ayvaz Ilayda
Published: February 2024

Purpose

The aim of this study was to analyze the impact of various surface treatments and production methods on the shear bond strength (SBS) between reline material and denture base resins.

Materials and Methods

One‐hundred‐twenty specimens were produced using conventional heat‐polymerization, subtractive, and additive techniques. Each group consisted of 40 specimens. The specimens were divided into four subgroups, each with 10 samples, for surface treatments. These subgroups were: (1) Control‐only monomer application, (2) 50 μm airborne‐particle abrasion, (3) 110 μm airborne‐particle abrasion, and (4) Roughening with tungsten carbide bur. Representative specimens from each subgroup were examined under SEM. Then, auto‐polymerized resin was condensed in the center of the specimens. Specimens were subjected to thermal aging (5000 cycles at 5–55°C). The SBS test was conducted and failure loads were recorded. The data were evaluated by two‐way ANOVA and Tukey pairwise multiple comparisons method (p < 0.05).

Results

The additively produced group showed significantly lower SBS than conventional and subtractive groups (p < 0.001), with no significant differences between the subtractive and conventional groups. Specimens that underwent monomer application only showed the lowest SBS among surface treatments, while 50 μm airborne‐particle abrasion showed the highest SBS. Based on the partial eta‐squared analysis results, the surface treatment mainly impacted SBS.

Conclusions

Among the surface treatment methods, treating denture bases with 50 μm airborne‐particle abrasion is more effective for maintaining adhesion, especially in the additive technique.
Directionality explored: Black Adolescents' awareness of systemic racism and race‐based experiences
Authors: Johnson Natasha C. , Rowley Stephanie J. , Kurtz‐Costes Beth
Published: February 2024

Increases in conversations about race and racial discrimination experiences during adolescence make this a critical developmental period to investigate adolescents' awareness of racism. We examined bidirectional associations between race‐based experiences and awareness of systemic racism—operationalized as understanding systemic causes of racial disparities in education. Adolescents who self‐identified as African American/Black were surveyed in Grade 6 (n = 317; Mage = 11.12; 48% girls) and Grade 8 (n = 247; Mage = 13.15; 56% girls). Cross‐lagged panel analyses revealed that racial barrier messages, but not racial discrimination experiences, in Grade 6 positively predicted awareness of systemic racism in Grade 8. Adolescents' awareness of systemic racism in Grade 6 did not predict racial socialization or racial discrimination experiences in Grade 8.
Dietary pterostilbene exerts potential protective effects by regulating lipid metabolism and enhancing antioxidant capacity on liver in broilers
Authors: Zhang Licong , Zhang Jingyang , Zang Haoran , Yin Zesheng , Guan Peiyue , Yu Chunting , Shan Anshan , Feng Xingjun
Published: February 2024

Intensive breeding of broilers met the increasing demands of human for broiler products, but it raised their increased susceptibility to various stressors resulting in the disorder of lipid metabolism. Pterostilbene, the methoxylated analogue of resveratrol, exhibits astonishing functions of antioxidant, anti‐inflammatory and glycolipid regulatory. The study aimed to elucidate the protective effects of pterostilbene on broiler liver and to explore the potential mechanisms. A total of 480 one‐day‐old male Arbor Acres (AA) broilers were randomly divided into four groups: the control group (basal diet) and pterostilbene groups (PT200, PT400, and PT600 feeding with basal diet containing 200, 400 and 600 mg/kg pterostilbene, respectively). The results showed that the dietary pterostilbene supplementation significantly improved the ADG of broilers. Dietary pterostilbene supplementation regulated the expression levels of the genes Sirt1 and AMPK and the downstream genes related to lipid metabolism to protect liver function and reduce lipid accumulation in broilers. Dietary pterostilbene supplementation upregulated the expression levels of the Nrf2 gene and its downstream antioxidant genes (SOD, CAT, HO‐1, NQO‐1, GPX) and phase II detoxification enzyme‐related genes (GST, GCLM, GCLC). Collectively, pterostilbene was confirmed the positive effects as a feed additive on lipid metabolism and antioxidant via regulating Sirt1/AMPK and Nrf2 signalling pathways in broilers.
Ridge regularized estimation of VAR models for inference
Authors: Ballarin Giovanni
Published: February 2024

Ridge regression is a popular method for dense least squares regularization. In this article, ridge regression is studied in the context of VAR model estimation and inference. The implications of anisotropic penalization are discussed, and a comparison is made with Bayesian ridge‐type estimators. The asymptotic distribution and the properties of cross‐validation techniques are analyzed. Finally, the estimation of impulse response functions is evaluated with Monte Carlo simulations and ridge regression is compared with a number of similar and competing methods.
The burden of anthropogenic changes and mutation load in a critically endangered harrier from the Reunion biodiversity hotspot, Circus maillardi
Authors: Bourgeois Yann , Warren Ben H. , Augiron Steve
Published: February 2024

Anthropogenic impact is causing the decline of a large proportion of species worldwide and reduces their genetic diversity. Island species typically have smaller ranges than continental species. As a consequence, island species are particularly liable to undergo population bottlenecks, giving rise to conservation challenges such as inbreeding and unmasking of deleterious genetic load. Such challenges call for more detailed assessments of the genetic make‐up of threatened island populations. The Mascarene islands (Indian Ocean) present many prime examples, being unusual in having been pristine until first human arrival ~400 years ago, following which anthropogenic pressure was unusually intense. A threatened harrier (Circus maillardi) endemic to the westernmost island of the archipelago is a good example of the challenges faced by species that have declined to small population size following intense anthropogenic pressure. In this study, we use an extensive set of population genomic tools to quantify variation at near‐neutral and coding loci, in order to test the historical impact of human activity on this species, and evaluate the species' (mal)adaptive potential. We observed low but significant genetic differentiation between populations on the West and North‐East sides of the island, echoing observations in other endemic species. Inbreeding was significant, with a substantial fraction of samples being first or second‐degree relatives. Historical effective population sizes have declined from ~3000 to 300 individuals in the past 1000 years, with a more recent drop ~100 years ago consistent with human activity. Based on our simulations and comparisons with a close relative (Circus melanoleucos), this demographic history may have allowed purging of the most deleterious variants but is unlikely to have allowed the purging of mildly deleterious variants. Our study shows how using relatively affordable methods can reveal the massive impact that human activity may have on the genetic diversity and adaptive potential of island populations, and calls for urgent action to closely monitor the reproductive success of such endemic populations, in association with genetic studies.
Comparing intraprofessional and interprofessional workplace learning: Similar or not?
Authors: Reinders Jan‐Jaap , Versluis Marco
Published: February 2024

The authors demonstrate alignment between intraprofessional and interprofessional learning, highlighting their interconnectedness and underscoring the value of a balanced approach to address ingroup‐outgroup dynamics and foster optimal collaboration.
The optimization of microbial functions through rational environmental manipulations
Authors: Sánchez Álvaro , Arrabal Andrea , San Román Magdalena , Díaz‐Colunga Juan
Published: February 2024

Microorganisms play a central role in biotechnology and it is key that we develop strategies to engineer and optimize their functionality. To this end, most efforts have focused on introducing genetic manipulations in microorganisms which are then grown either in monoculture or in mixed‐species consortia. An alternative strategy to optimize microbial processes is to rationally engineer the environment in which microbes grow. The microbial environment is multidimensional, including factors such as temperature, pH, salinity, nutrient composition, etc. These environmental factors all influence the growth and phenotypes of microorganisms and they generally “interact” with one another, combining their effects in complex, non‐additive ways. In this piece, we overview the origins and consequences of these “interactions” between environmental factors and discuss how they have been built into statistical, bottom‐up predictive models of microbial function to identify optimal environmental conditions for monocultures and microbial consortia. We also overview alternative “top‐down” approaches, such as genetic algorithms, to finding optimal combinations of environmental factors. By providing a brief summary of the state of this field, we hope to stimulate further work on the rational manipulation and optimization of the microbial environment.
High attenuation mucus in bronchi with allergic bronchopulmonary mycosis
Authors: Hattori Shigeaki , Oguma Tsuyoshi , Ishiguro Takashi , Suzuki Junko , Fukunaga Koichi , Shimoda Terufumi , Kimura Hirokazu , Obase Yasushi , Okada Naoki , Tanaka Jun , Kitahara Asako , Tomomatsu Katsuyoshi , Shiraishi Yoshiki , Asano Koichiro
Published: February 2024

Background

High‐attenuation mucus (HAM) is a specific manifestation of allergic bronchopulmonary mycosis (ABPM) on chest computed tomography (CT).

Objectives

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of the two definitions of HAM and to clarify the clinical and radiographic characteristics of HAM‐positive and HAM‐negative ABPM.

Methods

CT images at the diagnosis of ABPM using Asano's criteria were retrospectively analysed. In Study #1, radiographic data obtained using the same CT apparatus in a single institute were analysed to determine the agreement between the two definitions of HAM: a mucus plug that is visually denser than the paraspinal muscles or that with a radiodensity ≥70 Hounsfield units. In Study #2, HAM was diagnosed by comparison with the paraspinal muscles in patients with ABPM reporting to 14 medical institutes in Japan.

Results

In Study #1, 93 mucus plugs from 26 patients were analysed. A substantial agreement for HAM diagnosis was observed between the two methods, with a κ coefficient of 0.72. In Study #2, 60 cases of ABPM were analysed; mucus plugs were present in all cases and HAM was diagnosed in 45 (75%) cases. The median A. fumigatus‐specific IgE titre was significantly lower in HAM‐positive patients than in HAM‐negative patients (2.5 vs. 24.3 UA/mL, p = .004). Nodular shadows were observed more frequently in the airways distal to HAM than in those distal to non‐HAM mucus plugs (59% vs. 32%, p < .001).

Conclusion

In conclusion, agreement between the two methods to diagnose HAM was substantial. HAM was associated with some immunological and radiographic characteristics, including lower levels of sensitization to A. fumigatus and the presence of distal airway lesions.
What Drives House Prices in Europe?
Authors: Ciocchetta Federica , Guglielminetti Elisa , Mistretta Alessandro
Published: February 2024

Boom‐and‐bust cycles in the housing market pose a threat to macroeconomic and financial stability, thus calling for a timely assessment of imbalances. This work sheds light on the drivers of house price dynamics in some euro area economies, investigating the risks of overheating. We show that an Error‐Correction‐Model (ECM) featuring a long‐run relationship between house prices and income and short‐run effects of interest rates and housing supply fits the data well in most cases. We then propose a novel model‐based misalignment indicator and find that extrapolative house price expectations play an important role in the build‐up of speculative bubbles.
Efficacy of microchips and 3D sensors for orthodontic force measurement: A systematic review of in vitro studies
Authors: Ardila Carlos M. , Arrubla‐Escobar Daniel E. , Vivares‐Builes Annie Marcela
Published: February 2024

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of microchips and 3D microsensors in the measurement of orthodontic forces.

Methods

Through September 2023, comprehensive searches were conducted on PubMed/MEDLINE, SCOPUS and SCIELO without restrictions.

Results

After removing duplicate entries and applying the eligibility criteria, 23 studies were included for analysis. All the studies were conducted in vitro, and slightly more than half of them were centred on evaluating orthodontic forces exerted by aligners. Eight utilized microchips as measurement tools, while the remaining studies made use of 3D microsensors for their assessments. In the context of fixed appliances, key findings included a high level of agreement in 3‐dimensional orthodontic force detection between simulation results and actual applied forces. Incorporating critical force‐moment combinations during smart bracket calibration reduced measurement errors for most components. Translational tooth movement revealed a moment‐to‐force ratio, aligning with the bracket's centre of resistance. The primary findings in relation to aligners revealed several significant factors affecting the forces exerted by them. Notably, the foil thickness and staging were found to have a considerable impact on these forces, with optimal force transmission occurring at a layer height of 150 μm. Furthermore, the type of material used in 3D‐printing aligners influenced the force levels, with attachments proving effective in generating extrusive forces. Deliberate adjustments in aligner thickness were observed to alter the forces and moments generated.

Conclusions

Microchips and 3D sensors provide precise and quantitative measurements of orthodontic forces in in vitro studies, enabling accurate monitoring and control of tooth movement.