bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing measurement model of green cleaning components for green buildings
Authors: Zainol Nurul Nadiah , Ramli Nur Aqlima , Mohammad Izran Sarrazin , Sukereman Anis Syazwani , Sulaiman Muhammad Azwan
Published: January 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to assess a measurement model of green cleaning for green buildings in Malaysia. Being one of the contributors to the indoor environmental quality performance, green cleaning has become one of the significant aspects that need to be considered for the well-being and performance of a building, particularly in a green building's operations and maintenance performance. Green buildings without green cleaning practices would hinder the benefits that should be rendered economically, socially and environmentally. However, the absence of clear green cleaning components and requirements in Malaysia has become a motivation to undertake this research.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire survey involving cleaning service providers and green building index (GBI) facilitators was carried out, and the data was then analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling. However, this paper will only be focusing on the measurement model assessment.

Findings

Most of the green cleaning components and requirements are acceptable in the model except integrated pest management (in the cleaning procedure component) and hand soaps (in the product and materials component) due to lower factor loadings. Therefore, these two requirements were removed from the measurement model.

Research limitations/implications

Due to a paucity of professionals in the field of green cleaning, the researchers have selected GBI facilitators and cleaning service providers as respondents for this research. The researchers assumed that GBI facilitators are aware of acceptable products and materials for green buildings; meanwhile, cleaning service providers know what is the best cleaning technique and process that helps in achieving cost and resource efficiency. This research also assumed that the green cleaning components identified can be applied to any type of green building, regardless of the differences in needs in each type of building.

Practical implications

This discovery will give the industry, particularly cleaning service providers and green building management teams, a first look at the green cleaning components and requirements.

Originality/value

This paper fulfills the need to study how green cleaning helps in achieving the benefits rendered by green buildings.
Transcriptome‐wide analysis of mRNA N6‐methyladenosine modification in the embryonic development of Spodoptera frugiperda
Authors: Chen Yaqing , Lai Yushan , Liu Runzhou , Yao Lin , Yu Xiao‐Qiang , Wang Xiaoyun
Published: January 2023

N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) RNA is the most abundant modification of mRNA, and has been demonstrated in regulating various post‐transcriptional processes. Many studies have shown that m6A methylation plays key roles in sex determination, neuronal functions, and embryonic development in Drosophila and mammals. Here, we analyzed transcriptome‐wide profile of m6A modification in the embryonic development of the destructive agricultural pest Spodoptera frugiperda. We found that the 2 key mRNA m6A methyltransferases SfrMETTL3 and SfrMETTL14 have high homologies with other insects and mammals, suggesting that SfrMETTL3 and SfrMETTL14 may have conserved function among different species. From methylated RNA immunoprecipitation sequencing analysis, we obtained 46 869 m6A peaks representing 8 587 transcripts in the 2‐h embryos after oviposition, and 41 389 m6A peaks representing 9 230 transcripts in the 24‐h embryos. In addition, 5 995 m6A peaks were differentially expressed including 3 752 upregulated and 2243 downregulated peaks. Functional analysis with Gene Ontology and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes suggested that differentially expressed m6A peak‐modified genes were enriched in cell and organ development between the 2‐ and 24‐h embryos. By conjoint analysis of methylated RNA immunoprecipitation‐seq and RNA‐seq data, we found that RNA m6A methylation may regulate the transcriptional levels of genes related to tissue and organ development from 2‐ to 24‐h embryos. Our study reveals the role of RNA m6A epigenetic regulation in the embryonic development of S. frugiperda, and provides new insights for the embryonic development of insects.
Gut microbial community structure and function of Przewalski's horses varied across reintroduced sites in China
Authors: TANG Liping , YAN Liping , JIA Huiping , XIONG Yu , MA Xinping , CHU Hongjun , SUN Zhicheng , WANG Liang , SHALITANATI Mubalake , LI Kai , HU Defu , ZHANG Dong
Published: January 2023

Host‐associated microbiota can significantly impact host fitness. Therefore, naturally occurring variations in microbiota may influence the health and persistence of their hosts. This finding is particularly important in reintroduced animals, as they typically experience habitat changes during translocations. However, little is known about how microbiomes are altered in response to conservation translocation. Here, we accessed the gut microbiome of Przewalski's horse (Equus przewalskii) populations in China from three nature reserves (i.e. Xinjiang Kalamaili Nature Reserve, KNR; Dunhuang Xihu National Nature Reserve, DXNNR; and Anxi Extreme‐arid Desert Nature Reserve, AENR) using 16s rRNA gene and metagenome sequencing. The results showed that the microbial composition and function differed significantly across locations, while a subset of core taxa was consistently present in most of the samples. The abundance of genes encoding microbe‐produced enzymes involved in the metabolism of carbohydrates, especially for glycoside hydrolases, was significantly higher in open‐spaced KNR populations than in more confined AENR individuals. This study offers detailed and significant differential characters related to the microbial community and metabolic pathways in various reintroduced sites of Przewalski's horse, which might provide a basis for future microecological and conservation research on endangered reintroduced animals.
Blood–brain barrier dysfunction promotes astrocyte senescence through albumin‐induced TGFβ signaling activation
Authors: Preininger Marcela K. , Zaytseva Dasha , Lin Jessica May , Kaufer Daniela
Published: January 2023

Blood–brain barrier dysfunction (BBBD) and accumulation of senescent astrocytes occur during brain aging and contribute to neuroinflammation and disease. Here, we explored the relationship between these two age‐related events, hypothesizing that chronic hippocampal exposure to the blood‐borne protein serum albumin could induce stress‐induced premature senescence (SIPS) in astrocytes via transforming growth factor beta 1 (TGFβ) signaling. We found that 1 week of albumin exposure significantly increased TGFβ signaling and senescence marker expression in cultured rat hippocampal astrocytes. These changes were preventable by pharmacological inhibition of the type I TGFβ receptor (TGFβR) ALK5. To study these effects in vivo, we utilized an animal model of BBBD in which albumin was continuously infused into the lateral ventricles of adult mice. Consistent with our in vitro results, 1 week of albumin infusion significantly increased TGFβ signaling activation and the burden of senescent astrocytes in hippocampal tissue. Pharmacological inhibition of ALK5 TGFβR or conditional genetic knockdown of astrocytic TGFβR prior to albumin infusion was sufficient to prevent albumin‐induced astrocyte senescence. Together, these results establish a link between TGFβ signaling activation and astrocyte senescence and suggest that prolonged exposure to serum albumin due to BBBD can trigger these phenotypic changes.
A systematic review of the preferences of rural and remote youth for mental health service access: Telehealth versus face‐to‐face consultation
Authors: Mseke Edwin Paul , Jessup Belinda , Barnett Tony
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Telehealth has become an increasingly popular method to deliver mental health services to rural and remote youth who are challenged by distance and service availability. However, it remains unclear whether rural and remote youth would prefer to access mental health services via telehealth or by attending services in person.

Objective

To systematically review the preferences of rural and remote youth for mental health service access via telehealth versus face‐to‐face consultation.

Design

Systematic review of published research papers cited in databases CINAHL, MEDLINE and PubMed databases between 2000 and 2021.

Findings

From a total of 225 articles identified, four were found to meet inclusion criteria. Three studies reported rural and remote youth preferred to access mental health services face‐to‐face over telehealth. However, three studies also reported youth viewed telehealth as an important adjunct to in person attendance, especially in situations of large travel times.

Discussion

Although telehealth can facilitate mental health service access, rural and remote youth may prefer to see a mental health professional in person, with telehealth regarded as an adjunct to, not a replacement for, face‐to‐face consultation.

Conclusion

Whilst rural and remote youth may prefer to access mental health services in person rather than via telehealth, further well designed research is needed to better understand under what circumstances this preference holds true and why. Caution should be exercised in generalising this finding because of the few studies that met the inclusion criteria and different conditions under which youth made their choice to access mental health services.
Selective modulation of estrogen receptor in obese men with androgen deficiency: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Tienforti Daniele , Castellini Chiara , Di Giulio Francesca , Totaro Maria , Dalmazio Gilda , Spagnolo Luca , Muselli Mario , Corona Giovanni , Baroni Marco Giorgio , Barbonetti Arcangelo
Published: January 2023

Background

Although selective estrogen receptor modulators have been proposed as a treatment for men with central functional hypogonadism, only a few data have been produced in men with obesity‐related functional androgen deficiency.

Objective

To determine whether and to what extent selective estrogen receptor modulators are an effective and safe therapy in men with obesity‐related functional androgen deficiency.

Materials and methods

A thorough search of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases was performed to identify studies comparing testosterone levels before and after treatment. Mean differences with 95% coefficient intervals were combined using random effects models. Funnel plot, Egger's test, and trim‐and‐fill analysis were used to assess publication bias.

Results

Seven studies met the inclusion criteria providing information on 292 men with obesity‐related functional androgen deficiency treated with clomiphene citrate (12.5–50 mg daily) or enclomiphene citrate (12.5–25 mg daily) for 1.5–4 months. The pooled estimates indicated a significant increase in testosterone levels both with clomiphene (mean difference: 11.56 nmol/L; 95% coefficient interval: 9.68, 13.43; I2 = 69%, pfor heterogeneity = 0.01) and enclomiphene citrate (mean difference: 7.50 nmol/L; 95% coefficient interval: 6.52, 8.48; I2 = 4%, pfor heterogeneity = 0.37). After the exclusion of one study on severely obese men, who exhibited the highest response rate to clomiphene citrate, the heterogeneity disappeared (mean difference: 10.27 nmol/L; 95% coefficient interval: 9.39, 11.16; I2 = 0%, pfor heterogeneity = 0.66). No publication bias was revealed by Egger's test and trim‐and‐fill analysis. No treatment‐related unexpected findings regarding safety profile were registered.

Discussion and conclusion

Treatment with clomiphene citrate and enclomiphene citrate may be an effective and safe alternative to testosterone replacement therapy in men with obesity‐related functional androgen deficiency. Further long‐term studies are warranted to define clinical reflections of the selective estrogen receptor modulators‐induced increase in testosterone levels and to better clarify the safety profile.
Furosemide rescues hypercalciuria in familial hypomagnesaemia with hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis model
Authors: Kriuchkova Natalia , Breiderhoff Tilman , Müller Dominik , Yilmaz Duygu Elif , Demirci Hasan , Drewell Hoora , Günzel Dorothee , Himmerkus Nina , Bleich Markus , Persson Pontus B. , Mutig Kerim
Published: January 2023

Aim

Perturbed calcium homeostasis limits life expectancy in familial hypomagnesaemia with hypercalciuria and nephrocalcinosis (FHHNC). This rare disease occurs by loss‐of‐function mutations in CLDN16 or CLDN19 genes, causing impaired paracellular reabsorption of divalent cations along the cortical thick ascending limb (cTAL). Only partial compensation takes place in the ensuing late distal convoluted tubule, connecting tubule, and collecting duct, where the luminal transient receptor potential channel V5 (TRPV5), as well as basolateral plasma membrane calcium ATPase (PMCA) and sodium‐potassium exchanger (NCX1) mediate transcellular Ca2+ reabsorption. The loop diuretic furosemide induces compensatory activation in these distal segments. Normally, furosemide enhances urinary calcium excretion via inhibition of the aforementioned cTAL. As Ca2+ reabsorption in the cTAL is already severely impaired in FHHNC patients, furosemide may alleviate hypercalciuria in this disease by activation of the distal transcellular Ca2+ transport proteins.

Methods

Cldn16‐deficient mice (Cldn16−/−) served as a FHHNC model. Wild‐type (WT) and Cldn16−/− mice were treated with furosemide (7 days of 40 mg/kg bw) or vehicle. We assessed renal electrolyte handling (metabolic cages) and key divalent transport proteins.

Results

Cldn16−/− mice show higher Ca2+ excretion than WT and compensatory stimulation of Cldn2, TRPV5, and NCX1 at baseline. Furosemide reduced hypercalciuria in Cldn16−/− mice and enhanced TRPV5 and PMCA levels in Cldn16−/− but not in WT mice.

Conclusions

Furosemide significantly reduces hypercalciuria, likely via upregulation of luminal and basolateral Ca2+ transport systems in the distal nephron and collecting duct in this model for FHHNC.
Uterine rupture in intramural ectopic pregnancy: A case report
Authors: Washio Keiichi , Komatsu Masato , Tomimoto Masako , Uchida Akiko , Sasagawa Yuki , Nishimoto Masashi , Nagamata Satoshi , Yamasaki Yui , Tanimura Kenji , Terai Yoshito
Published: January 2023

Intramural pregnancy is a rare form of ectopic pregnancy. It is defined by a gestation within the uterine wall, completely surrounded by myometrium and separated from the uterine cavity and the fallopian tube. We report a rare case of intramural ectopic pregnancy. If a patient has a history of intrauterine surgery or myomectomy, the possibility of intramural pregnancy, although rare, should not be ruled out.
Optimizing adherence to allopurinol for gout: patients' perspectives
Authors: Spragg Jane C. J. , Michael Toni J. F. , Aslani Parisa , Coleshill Matthew J. , Chan Jian S. , Day Richard O. , Stocker Sophie L.
Published: January 2023

Aims

Poor adherence to allopurinol among people with gout contributes to suboptimal gout management. This study sought to understand the facilitators and barriers to allopurinol adherence across the three stages of medication adherence, and patient perspectives on strategies to improve adherence, including self‐monitoring urate concentration.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 26 people with gout, previously or currently taking allopurinol. De‐identified verbatim transcripts were thematically analysed using an inductive and deductive approach.

Results

Facilitators of adherence during allopurinol initiation were motivation to prevent gout flares and trust in the advice of their healthcare professionals (HCPs). Reluctance to commence long‐term medication was a barrier to allopurinol initiation. Believing in the effectiveness and necessity of allopurinol and reminder systems were facilitators of implementation. Barriers to implementation included forgetfulness, gout flares and limited feedback on allopurinol's effectiveness. Patients discontinued therapy when allopurinol was perceived as ineffective or unnecessary. Discontinuation coincided with patients experiencing gout flares while adhering to allopurinol and receiving suboptimal advice about gout management. Patients identified receiving accurate advice from HCPs and regular urate monitoring for feedback on allopurinol's effectiveness as potential strategies to improve adherence. Perceived benefits of self‐monitoring urate as a strategy to promote adherence included the ability to self‐manage gout and make informed decisions about allopurinol therapy with their HCP.

Conclusion

Patient perceptions of the effectiveness and necessity of allopurinol influenced intentional adherence during medication initiation, implementation and discontinuation. Strategies that inform patients of their urate control and provide accurate medical advice have the potential to improve adherence to allopurinol.
β‐Thalassemia in childhood: Current state of health in a high‐income country
Authors: Donze Caroline , Benoit Audrey , Thuret Isabelle , Faust Cindy ,   NaThalY Network, Gauthier Alexandra , Berbis Julie , Badens Catherine , Brousse Valentine
Published: January 2023

β‐thalassemia is an haemoglobinopathy characterized by a defective synthesis of the β‐globin chain. To assess the current state of health of paediatric patients with β‐thalassemia, data from the French national registry regarding children born between 2005 and 2020 with β‐thalassemia intermedia (TI) or major (TM) were collected. A total of 237 patients (median age 7.1 years at last visit) were analysed, of whom 156 (65.8%) were born in France and 162 (68.4%) had a TM phenotype. The probability of survival for children with TM born in France was 98.3% at 15 years. Fifty‐four (22.8%) children received a haematopoietic stem cell transplant with a success rate of 88.8%. Hepatic and cardiac iron overload monitoring in non‐transplanted patients showed moderate overload in 15.7% (18/115) and 7.1% (7/99) of cases, respectively, while clinical complications were found in only 4 patients with TM (hepatic in 3 cases). At last visit, mean ferritinemia was 1293 ng/ml (±759). Overall, less than 10% of children underwent splenectomy. No significant impact of the disease on growth or academic achievement was observed. Deferasirox was the main first‐line chelator, prescribed in 78.2% of cases, with side effects reported in 11.7% of instances.
Review: Recommendations for male‐friendly counselling with adolescent males: A qualitative systematic literature review
Authors: Boerma Micah , Beel Nathan , Jeffries Carla , Ruse Jesse
Published: January 2023

Background

There are growing calls to tailor counselling practices for adolescent males, a population reluctant to engage in psychological treatment despite concerning rates of mental illness. The objective of this systematic review (PROSPERO: CRD4202125547) was to collate and synthesise recommendations for individual counselling with adolescent males (12–18 years).

Method

The databases Psychology and Behavioural Science Collection, PsycArticles, PsycINFO, Academic Search Complete, EBSCO eBook Collection, Wiley Science Collection, Taylor and Francis Collection and ProQuest One Academic were searched for articles published between 1995 and November 2021. The quality of evidence was assessed using the JBI critical appraisal checklists, and thematic analysis was employed to synthesise findings across the literature.

Results

A total of 1625 texts were identified, of which 16 met the inclusion criteria. Generated themes included (a) therapist knowledge of masculinity, gender socialisation, and male‐relational styles; (b) necessity of therapists to address masculinity in the therapeutic space; and (c) customising engagement and treatment practices to appeal to adolescent males.

Conclusions

The themes highlighted the unique developmental, and sociocultural considerations practitioners should be aware of when working with young men. Through a multicultural counselling competency framework, masculinity and adolescent male identity are expressions of diverse sociocultural identities that psychological assessment and intervention should ideally be tailored to suit. The findings of the review suggest that empirical research focusing on the experiences of adolescent males receiving psychological treatment is sparse. Further research is needed to inform the development of practicable, gender‐sensitive adaptions to counselling practice for young men.
Update on the controversial identity of cells expressing cnr2 gene in the nervous system
Authors: Grabon Wanda , Bodennec Jacques , Rheims Sylvain , Belmeguenai Amor , Bezin Laurent
Published: January 2023

The function of cannabinoid receptor type 2 (CB2R), mainly expressed by leukocytes, has long been limited to its peripheral immunomodulatory role. However, the use of CB2R‐specific ligands and the availability of CB2R‐Knock Out mice revealed that it could play a functional role in the CNS not only under physiological but also under pathological conditions. A direct effect on the nervous system emerged when CB2R mRNA was detected in neural tissues. However, accurate mapping of CB2R protein expression in the nervous system is still lacking, partly because of the lack of specificity of antibodies available. This review examines the regions and cells of the nervous system where CB2R protein is most likely present by cross‐referencing mRNA and protein data published to date. Of the many antibodies developed to target CB2R, only a few have partially passed specificity tests and detected CB2R in the CNS. Efforts must be continued to support the development of more specific and better validated antibodies in each of the species in which CB2R protein is sought or needs to be quantified.
Associations between Socioeconomic Status, Cognition, and Brain Structure: Evaluating Potential Causal Pathways Through Mechanistic Models of Development
Authors: Thomas Michael S. C. , Coecke Selma
Published: January 2023

Differences in socioeconomic status (SES) correlate both with differences in cognitive development and in brain structure. Associations between SES and brain measures such as cortical surface area and cortical thickness mediate differences in cognitive skills such as executive function and language. However, causal accounts that link SES, brain, and behavior are challenging because SES is a multidimensional construct: correlated environmental factors, such as family income and parental education, are only distal markers for proximal causal pathways. Moreover, the causal accounts themselves must span multiple levels of description, employ a developmental perspective, and integrate genetic effects on individual differences. Nevertheless, causal accounts have the potential to inform policy and guide interventions to reduce gaps in developmental outcomes. In this article, we review the range of empirical data to be integrated in causal accounts of developmental effects on the brain and cognition associated with variation in SES. We take the specific example of language development and evaluate the potential of a multiscale computational model of development, based on an artificial neural network, to support the construction of causal accounts. We show how, with bridging assumptions that link properties of network structure to magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) measures of brain structure, different sets of empirical data on SES effects can be connected. We use the model to contrast two possible causal pathways for environmental influences that are associated with SES: differences in prenatal brain development and differences in postnatal cognitive stimulation. We then use the model to explore the implications of each pathway for the potential to intervene to reduce gaps in developmental outcomes. The model points to the cumulative effects of social disadvantage on multiple pathways as the source of the poorest response to interventions. Overall, we highlight the importance of implemented models to test competing accounts of environmental influences on individual differences.
Investigation of the clean patterning possibilities on cotton socks through laser technology
Authors: Atav Rıza , Köksal Daban Sevda , Çetin Erdoğan
Published: January 2023

The aim of this research is to reveal the effect of laser treatment at different resolutions (10, 20 and 30 dpi) and pixel times (80, 100 and 120 μs) on reactive dye uptake of cotton fabrics and the fastness values obtained. Yellowness index, Fourier Transform–infrared analysis, scanning electron microscopy analysis and bursting strength tests were applied to samples. The samples treated with laser were dyed in lighter shades than the untreated ones, with all three of the reactive dyes used in the experiments. In general, colour yield values decreased when the resolution and pixel time increased. However, no significant change was observed in washing, rubbing, light and perspiration fastness values. The possibilities of obtaining various patterns on cotton socks dyed with reactive dyes by laser treatment at different resolutions and pixel times were also investigated. According to the results, it was determined that if laser treatment was not applied to some parts of reactive dyed cotton socks, and 10 dpi 100 μs and 20 dpi 100 μs laser was applied to other parts of those socks, then it was possible to obtain patterns with different shades of the same colour on the socks. On the other hand, laser application after dyeing does not have a negative effect on fastness values. After determining the optimum conditions for the laser process, non‐see‐through tights were produced with cotton yarn on the front and polyester/elastane yarn on the back, and patterns were obtained by applying laser treatment before or after dyeing via sample scale industrial production.
Study of the dyeing properties of saffron and ultrafiltrated saffron powders, as colourants for natural and synthetic fibres
Authors: Naidis Panagiotis , Lykidou Smaro , Mischopoulou Magdalini , Vouvoudi Evangelia , Nikolaidis Nikolaos F.
Published: January 2023

There is a noticeable growing interest in the use of natural dyes in contemporary textile dyeing, motivated by the requirements imposed, in favour of environmental prosperity. The use of natural dyes reduces significantly both the energy requirements and the environmental impact of the process. In the present work natural and synthetic fibres were dyed with the dyestuff isolated from Crocus sativus L., after aqueous extraction of the dried stigmas of the plant. Additionally, part of the powder was purified by using ultrafiltration technology. The saffron extract and the ultrafiltrated saffron retentate were used to dye cotton, wool, nylon and polyester, in various depths of shade and temperatures. Both saffron and ultrafiltrated saffron successfully dyed not only the natural substrates, but also the synthetic ones, while higher dyeing temperatures produced level dyeing with all substrates used. Ultrafiltrated saffron powder produced brighter and much stronger dyeing to the original saffron powder, due to the elimination of extraction by‐products. Isothermal adsorptions for both colourants were performed on all substrates in order to investigate their adsorption mechanism. It was found that saffron and ultrafiltrated saffron follow a Freundlich‐type adsorption isotherm on cotton, wool and nylon which is a typical mechanism for a planar‐directed dye of big molecular weight. Nernst‐type adsorption was found to occur on polyester which again is typical for the adsorption of disperse dyes on polyester. Thus, saffron can be claimed as a universal dye, able to successfully dye natural and synthetic substrates.
Noninvasive assessment of carotid plaque with subharmonic aided pressure estimation from a US contrast agent: A preliminary study
Authors: Li Rui , Zhang Yukang , Zheng Shuai , Cheng Linggang , Zhang Yanfen , Chen Zhiguang , He Wen , Zhang Wei
Published: January 2023

Stroke is closely associated with carotid plaques. The assessment of carotid plaque is still the key issue of stroke prevention in clinical practice. This prospective cross‐sectional study included patients with carotid plaque evaluated by ultrasonography (US). The intima‐media thickness (IMT), lumen stenosis severity, thickness, and length of carotid plaque were measured by the routine US, and the amplitudes of subharmonics in the upstream shoulder, top, and downstream shoulder of all plaques and corresponding lumens were observed by Subharmonic Aided Pressure Estimation (SHAPE) US examination from the US contrast agent perflubutane microbubbles (Sonazoid), which analyzed the clinical parameters of patients, the subharmonic amplitude characteristics of all plaques and lumens, and the parameter differences between the ischemic stroke (IS) group and control group. From May 2021 to February 2022, 46 carotid plaques of 23 patients were included. For plaques, the subharmonic amplitude in the plaque (−60.52 ± 4.46) was lower than that in the opposing level lumen (−56.82 ± 5.68 dB), the subharmonic gradient across the plaque cap was negatively correlated with plaque thickness (r = −0.51, p < 0.001), and with the lumen stenosis severity (r = −0.42, p = 0.003). The median IMT of the IS group was thicker than the control group. The subharmonic gradient of the intraplaque of the IS group was larger than the control group (p = 0.004). In this analysis, we use the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to establish the cutoff value of the difference to predict a new monitoring method for plaque without invasion to predict IS. It still needs a large‐scale study with long‐term follow‐up to validate these findings.
Characteristic tetraspanin expression patterns mark various tissues during early Xenopus development
Authors: Kuriyama Sei , Tanaka Masamitsu
Published: January 2023

The tetraspanins (Tspans) constitute a family of cell surface proteins with four transmembrane domains. Tspans have been found on the plasma membrane and on exosomes of various organelles. Reports on the function of Tspans during the early development of Xenopus have mainly focused on the expression of uroplakins in gametes. Although the roles of extracellular vesicles (EVs) including exosomes have been actively analyzed in cancer research, the contribution of EVs to early development is not well understood. This is because the diffusivity of EVs is not compatible with a very strict developmental process. In this study, we analyzed members of the Tspan family in early development of Xenopus. Expression was prominent in specific organs such as the notochord, eye, cranial neural crest cells (CNCs), trunk neural crest cells, placodes, and somites. We overexpressed several combinations of Tspans in CNCs in vitro and in vivo. Changing the partner changed the distribution of fluorescent‐labeled Tspans. Therefore, it is suggested that expression of multiple Tspans in a particular tissue might produce heterogeneity of intercellular communication, which has not yet been recognized.
Evaluation of the effect of fiber bridging on mode I quasi‐static testing
Authors: Ben Gur Hila , Banks‐Sills Leslie
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this investigation is to evaluate the contribution of fiber bridging to the energy release rate of a fracture resistance curve. Fiber bridging occurs when testing beam‐type specimens consisting of unidirectional plies in a laminate. Unidirectional double cantilever beam specimens composed of the carbon fiber reinforced polymer prepreg AS4/8552 were tested using standard methods. In addition, a cohesive zone model was developed and used to carry out finite element analyses on the tested specimens. It was employed to calculate the contribution of fiber bridging to the
‐curve which was determined from the tests. Fiber bridging in beam specimens increases the apparent fracture toughness of a composite laminate. A method has been proposed for evaluating its contribution to the energy release rate. In that way, an
‐curve may be determined for which the effect of fiber bridging is eliminated.
Viscoplastic constitutive model considering strain rate sensitivity under multiaxial thermomechanical fatigue loading
Authors: Li Dao‐Hang , Shang De‐Guang , Chen Hong , Cong Ling‐Hua , Wang Jin‐Jie , Mao Zheng‐Yu , Chen Chao‐Lin , Guo Yi‐Er , Yin Xiang
Published: January 2023

Strain rate sensitivity will change the cyclic mechanical response of materials under multiaxial thermomechanical fatigue loading; thus, it will lead to errors in fatigue life prediction if strain rate sensitivity is not considered in constitutive simulation. In order to more accurately express the time/rate dependence of viscoplastic behavior, a strain rate sensitivity factor is proposed to modify the viscoplastic function of Chaboche model first. On this basis, a viscoplastic constitutive model considering strain rate sensitivity under multiaxial thermomechanical fatigue loading is proposed, which can describe the varying influence of strain rate sensitivity on cyclic mechanical behavior. Meanwhile, the exponential isotropic hardening rule with the linear term is adopted to characterize the initial rapid softening and subsequent stable softening of the material under fatigue loading at elevated temperature. Moreover, the material‐dependent nonproportional hardening coefficient and the loading path‐dependent rotation factor are used in the kinematic hardening rule to consider the effect of nonproportional additional hardening on the cyclic mechanical behavior of materials. Finally, the proposed method is verified by the stress–strain data of titanium alloy TC4 and Ni‐based superalloy GH4169 under uniaxial and multiaxial thermomechanical fatigue loadings, and a good agreement is obtained.
Crop residue return sustains global soil ecological stoichiometry balance
Authors: Liu Ji , Qiu Tianyi , Peñuelas Josep , Sardans Jordi , Tan Wenfeng , Wei Xiaomeng , Cui Yongxing , Cui Qingliang , Wu Chuanfa , Liu Lanfa , Zhou Baitao , He Haoran , Fang Linchuan
Published: January 2023

Although soil ecological stoichiometry is constrained in natural ecosystems, its responses to anthropogenic perturbations are largely unknown. Inputs of inorganic fertilizer and crop residue are key cropland anthropogenic managements, with potential to alter their soil ecological stoichiometry. We conducted a global synthesis of 682 data pairs to quantify the responses of soil carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) and grain yields to combined inputs of crop residue plus inorganic fertilizer compared with only inorganic fertilizer application. Crop residue inputs enhance soil C (10.5%–12%), N (7.63%–9.2%), and P (2.62%–5.13%) contents, with an increase in C:N (2.51%–3.42%) and C:P (7.27%–8.00%) ratios, and grain yields (6.12%–8.64%), indicating that crop residue alleviated soil C limitation caused by inorganic fertilizer inputs alone and was able to sustain balanced stoichiometry. Moreover, the increase in soil C and C:N(P) ratio reached saturation in ~13–16 years after crop residue return, while grain yield increase trend discontinued. Furthermore, we identified that the increased C, N, and P contents and C:N(P) ratios were regulated by the initial pH and C content, and the increase in grain yield was not only related to soil properties, but also negatively related to the amount of inorganic N fertilizer input to a greater extent. Given that crop residual improvement varies with soil properties and N input levels, we propose a predictive model to preliminary evaluate the potential for crop residual improvement. Particularly, we suggest that part of the global budget should be used to subsidize crop residue input management strategies, achieving to a win‐win situation for agricultural production, ecological protection, and climate change mitigation.
Prenatal weight and regional body composition trajectories and neonatal body composition: The NICHD Foetal Growth Studies
Authors: Widen Elizabeth M. , Burns Natalie , Kahn Linda G. , Grewal Jagteshwar , Backlund Grant , Nichols Amy R. , Rickman Rachel , Foster Saralyn , Nhan‐Chang Chia‐Ling , Zhang Cuilin , Wapner Ronald , Wing Deborah A. , Owen John , Skupski Daniel W. , Ranzini Angela C. , Newman Roger , Grobman William , Daniels Michael J.
Published: January 2023

Background

Gestational weight gain (GWG) and anthropometric trajectories may affect foetal programming and are potentially modifiable.

Objectives

To assess concomitant patterns of change in weight, circumferences and adiposity across gestation as an integrated prenatal exposure, and determine how they relate to neonatal body composition.

Methods

Data are from a prospective cohort of singleton pregnancies (n = 2182) enrolled in United States perinatal centres, 2009–2013. Overall and by prepregnancy BMI group (overweight/obesity and healthy weight), joint latent trajectory models were fit with prenatal weight, mid‐upper arm circumference (MUAC), triceps (TSF) and subscapular (SSF) skinfolds. Differences in neonatal body composition by trajectory class were assessed via weighted least squares.

Results

Six trajectory patterns reflecting co‐occurring changes in weight and MUAC, SSF and TSF across pregnancy were identified overall and by body mass index (BMI) group. Among people with a healthy weight BMI, some differences were observed for neonatal subcutaneous adipose tissue, and among individuals with overweight/obesity some differences in neonatal lean mass were found. Neonatal adiposity measures were higher among infants born to individuals with prepregnancy overweight/obesity.

Conclusions

Six integrated trajectory patterns of prenatal weight, subcutaneous adipose tissue and circumferences were observed that were minimally associated with neonatal body composition, suggesting a stronger influence of prepregnancy BMI.
Secukinumab demonstrates superiority over narrow‐band ultraviolet B phototherapy in new‐onset moderate to severe plaque psoriasis patients: Week 52 results from the STEPIn study
Authors: Iversen Lars , Conrad Curdin , Eidsmo Liv , Costanzo Antonio , Narbutt Joanna , Pinter Andreas , Kingo Külli , Rivera Diaz Raquel , Kolbinger Frank , Nanna ManikPrabhu , Frueh Jennifer Annika , Jagiello Piotr
Published: January 2023

Background

Biologic treatments have been studied mainly in patients with a long‐term history of psoriasis and previous treatment failures.

Objectives

The purpose of this primary analysis of the STEPIn study is to determine whether early intervention with secukinumab in patients with new‐onset moderate to severe plaque psoriasis is superior to standard of care treatment with narrow band ultraviolet B (nb‐UVB) phototherapy.

Methods

The STEPIn study is a randomized, open‐label, multicentre study to investigate early intervention with 52 weeks of secukinumab 300 mg administered subcutaneously versus standard treatment with nb‐UVB phototherapy in patients with new‐onset (≤12 months) moderate to severe plaque psoriasis (NCT03020199). The primary and additional secondary endpoints were ≥90% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI 90) at Week 52 and Investigator's Global Assessment (IGA mod 2011) 0/1 response at Week 52, respectively.

Results

In the secukinumab and nb‐UVB study arms, 77/80 and 76/80 randomized patients received at least one dose of study treatment, respectively. The primary endpoint was achieved: 91.1% (70/77) of patients achieved a PASI 90 response at Week 52 in the secukinumab arm versus 42.3% (32/76) in the nb‐UVB arm (p < 0.0001, odds ratio [OR] estimate [95% confidence intervals, CI] = 16.3 [5.6, 46.9]). The additional secondary endpoint was also achieved: 85.7% of patients achieved an IGA 0/1 response at Week 52 in the secukinumab arm versus 36.8% in the nb‐UVB arm (p < 0.0001). The safety data were consistent with the safety profiles of secukinumab and nb‐UVB with no new or unexpected safety signals.

Conclusions

Secukinumab was superior to nb‐UVB in treating patients with new‐onset moderate to severe plaque psoriasis. The high and sustained skin clearance observed indicates that biologic treatment for psoriasis may be more effective if used early in the disease course.
Digital workflow in implant prosthodontics: The critical aspects for reliable accuracy
Authors: Gracis Stefano , Appiani Antonello , Noè Gaetano
Published: January 2023

Introduction

This paper is a comprehensive treaty about the variables that influence the transfer of the position of an implant to the laboratory when using a digital workflow.

Objective

The aim is to provide operators and manufacturers with a guide on how to improve certain aspects of the digital workflow specific to the fabrication of implant‐supported restorations.

Overview

It addresses intraoral scanning issues and CAD software issues. In the former, the variables that play a part in the quality of the scan file are investigated: the implant scan body, the IOS and the operator. For the latter, instead, the focus is on those aspects that still today may create inaccuracies in the workflow and in the final product being fabricated: the identification of the specific implant placed in the patient and the generation of a virtual model with the representation of that implant platform correctly positioned in the three dimensions of space. Suggestions and recommendations are given to improve the control on the quality of the digital workflow's output.

Conclusion

In a digital workflow for the fabrication of an implant‐supported restoration, the selection and use of the implant scan body, the use of an effective scan strategy and the appropriateness of the best fit function in the CAD software, that is, the procedure of superimposing the library of geometric shapes of the ISB linked to the implant with the shape acquired intraorally, are variables that can influence the positional precision of the FDP.

Clinical Significance

Fully understanding the importance of the information enclosed in the ISBs themselves can be crucial in the digital workflow. A proper ISB's selection, a correct scan of the ISB's shape and an accurate CAD superimposition of the ISB's library can lead the clinician to reduce the variables that affect the final result in daily practice.
Effects of temperature on metabolic rate and lower dissolved oxygen tolerance of juvenile speckled peacock bass Cichla temensis
Authors: Coffill‐Rivera Manuel E. , Neal J. Wesley , Allen Peter J.
Published: January 2023

The speckled peacock bass Cichla temensis is a popular sport and food fish that generates substantial angling tourism and utilitarian harvest within its range. Its popularity and value make this species important for management and a potential aquaculture candidate for both fisheries enhancement and food fish production. However, little is known of optimal physiochemical conditions in natural habitats, which also are important for the development of hatchery protocols for handling, spawning and grow‐out. Speckled peacock bass have been documented to have high sensitivity to extreme temperatures, but the metabolic underpinnings have not been evaluated. In this study, the effects of temperature (25, 30 and 35°C) on the standard metabolic rate (SMR) and lower dissolved oxygen tolerance (LDOT) of juvenile speckled peacock bass (mean ± standard error total length 153 ± 2 mm and wet weight 39.09 ± 1.37 g) were evaluated using intermittent respirometers after an acclimation period of 2 weeks. Speckled peacock bass had the highest SMR at 35°C (345.56 ± 19.89 mgO2 kg−1 h−1), followed by 30°C (208.16 ± 12.45 mgO2 kg−1 h−1) and 25°C (144.09 ± 10.43 mgO2 kg−1 h−1). Correspondingly, the Q10, or rate of increase in aerobic metabolic rate (MO2) relative to 10°C, for 30–35°C was also greater (2.76) than from 25 to 30°C (2.08). Similarly, speckled peacock bass were the most sensitive to hypoxia at the warmest temperature, with an LDOT at pO2 of 90 mmHg (4.13 mg l−1) at 35°C compared to pO2 values of 45 mmHg (2.22 mg l−1) and 30 mmHg (1.61 mg l−1) at 30 and 25°C, respectively. These results indicate that speckled peacock bass are sensitive to temperatures near 35°C, therefore we recommend managing and rearing this species at 25–30°C.
An epidemiological analysis of Nocardia seriolae isolated from a wide range of aquatic animals in Taiwan, based on their genotype and enzymatic activity
Authors: Nguyen Phuong , Nazareth Sandra Celenia , Chen Mei‐Yun , Wang Pei‐Chi , Chen Shih‐Chu
Published: January 2023

Chronic disease following Nocardia seriolae infection in a wide range of aquatic animals has been reported in many Asian countries and recently in America and Mexico. This study aimed to investigate the epidemiological relationship among N. seriolae isolates in Taiwan by investigating their genotype and enzymatic activities. A total of 66 strains isolated from 14 known and four unknown host fish from five sites in Taiwan were characterized using five combined methods. High genotypic diversity was recognized among the isolates with 10 pulsotypes being identified from the pulsed‐field gel electrophoresis method and 21 reptypes from the repetitive extragenic palindromic amplification method; however, no natural plasmids were detected in this bacterial population. Pulsotypes A8 and RI analysed by PFGE and repPCR, respectively, were found to be predominant within five sites in Taiwan over 17 years of isolation. Enzymatically, the majority of isolates displayed high leucine arylamidase, β‐glucosidase and α‐glucosidase activities but were negative for lipase, α‐galactosidase, β‐glucuronidase, N‐acetyl‐glucosaminidase, α‐mannosidase and α‐fucosidase activities. We identified a strong association between genotype and enzymatic activity since the majority of pulsotypes displayed the same type of enzymatic profile. This study provides comprehensive and potential epidemiological data, which will aid the fish farming activities and prevention method development.
Breast and prostate cancer screening rates by cognitive status in US older adults
Authors: Schoenborn Nancy L. , Cidav Tom , Boyd Cynthia M. , Pollack Craig E. , Sekhon Vishaldeep Kaur , Yasar Sevil
Published: January 2023

Introduction

For most older adults with dementia, the short‐term harms and burdens of routine cancer screening likely outweigh the delayed benefits. We aimed to provide a more updated assessment of the extent that US older adults with dementia receive breast and prostate cancer screenings.

Methods

Using the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) Wave 12 (2014–2015) linked to Medicare, we examine rates of breast and prostate cancer screenings in adults 65+ years by cognitive status. We used claims data to identify eligibility for screening and receipt of screening. We used a validated method using HRS data to define cognitive status.

Results

The analytic sample included 2439 women in the breast cancer screening cohort and 1846 men in the prostate cancer screening cohort. Average ages were 76.8 years for women and 75.6 years for men, with 9.0% and 7.6% with dementia in each cohort, respectively.

Among women with dementia, 12.3% were screened for breast cancer. When stratified by age, 10.6% of those 75+ and have dementia were screened for breast cancer. When stratified by predicted life expectancy, 10.4% of those with predicted life expectancy of <10 years and have dementia were screened for breast cancer.

Among men with dementia, 33.9% were screened for prostate cancer. When stratified by age, 30.9% of those 75+ and have dementia were screened for prostate cancer. When stratified by predicted life expectancy, 34.4% of those with predicted life expectancy of <10 years and have dementia were screened for prostate cancer.

Using multivariable logistic regression, dementia was associated with lower odds of receiving breast cancer screening (OR 0.36, 95% CI 0.23–0.57) and prostate cancer screening (OR 0.58, 95% CI 0.36–0.96).

Discussion

Our results suggest potential over‐screening in older adults with dementia. Better supporting dementia patients and caregivers to make informed cancer screening decisions is critical.