bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Did court reinstate student‐athlete to team?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2023

John Doe was a member of a Haverford College varsity sports team. He became captain of the team during his junior year. In spring 2022, a rumor began to circulate that Doe had sexually assaulted an unnamed female on campus. Two of Doe's teammates reported the allegation to their coach. The coach reported the allegation to the college's Title IX office and instructed Doe to step away from the team until the matter was resolved.
Insurance status impacts survival of hepatocellular carcinoma patients after liver resection
Authors: Qiu Zhancheng , Qi Weili , Wu Youwei , Li Lingling , Li Chuan
Published: July 2023

Background

This study intends to examine the effect of public insurance status on survival outcomes of HCC patients after liver resection in China.

Methods

We divided 2911 HCC patients after liver resection included in our study into the Urban Employed‐based Medical Insurance group (UEBMI group, n = 1462) and the non‐Urban Employed‐based Medical Insurance group (non‐UEBMI group, n = 1449). A propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was used to control confounding factors. Overall survival (OS) was estimated by Kaplan–Meier curves and Cox proportional hazard models based on variables screened by Lasso regression. Competing risk analysis was used to analyze cancer‐specific survival (CSS).

Results

UEBMI group had more male patients (p = 0.031), patients in the UEBMI group were older (p < 0.001) and had lower Charlson Comorbidity Index scores (CCI score, p < 0.001). Meanwhile, patients in the UEBMI group had better liver function (albumin‐bilirubin grade I [ALBI I], p < 0.001) and lower tumor burden (α‐fetoprotein [AFP], p = 0.009; Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer stage [BCLC], p = 0.026; Milan criteria, p < 0.001; tumor size, p < 0.001; microvascular invasion [MVI], p = 0.030; portal vein tumor thrombosis [PVTT], p = 0.002). More patients in the UEBMI group received laparoscopic surgery (p = 0.024) and adjuvant transarterial chemoembolization (TACE, p < 0.001). After PSM, patients in the two matched groups had similar characteristics. Patients with recurrent HCC in the UEBMI were more likely to receive curative therapy (p < 0.001) and less likely to receive supportive care (p < 0.001). HCC patients after liver resection in the non‐UEBMI group had a worse OS before (p < 0.0001) and after PSM (p = 0.002). [Correction added on August 16, 2023 after first online publication. The p value has been updated in the preceding sentence.] In our Lasso‐Cox risk regression model, public health insurance status was an independent factor linked with OS (non‐UEBMI vs. UEBMI, hazard ratio [HR]: 1.27; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.12–1.46; p < 0.001). In the competing risk analysis, patients in the UEBMI group had a lower cumulative incidence of CSS before (p < 0.001) and after PSM (p = 0.001), and public insurance status of HCC patients after liver resection remained independently associated with CSS (non‐UEBMI vs. UEBMI; HR:1.36; 95% CI: 1.18–1.58; p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Underinsured HCC patients after liver resection had worse survival outcomes. Less access to care for underinsured patients may explain the difference in survival, but the corresponding conclusions need to be further explored.
The rare entity of gastrointestinal leiomyosarcomas: An Italian multicenter retrospective study in high‐volume referral centers
Authors: Zagami Paola , Comandone Alessandro , Fiore Marco , Baldi Giacomo Giulio , Grignani Giovanni , Vincenzi Bruno , Gronchi Alessandro , Antonarelli Gabriele , Boglione Antonella , Pennacchioli Elisabetta , Curigliano Giuseppe , Conforti Fabio , De Pas Tommaso Martino
Published: July 2023

Background

After a huge efficacy of imatinib in treating patients with gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) was proven, a maximum effort was made to make a differential diagnosis between GISTs and gastrointestinal leiomyosarcomas (GI‐LMS), showing the latter to be an extremely rare tumor entity. Limited data on GI‐LMS biology, clinical behavior and drug‐sensibility are available, and the clinical decision‐making in this subgroup of patients is usually challenging.

Methods

We conducted a multicenter, retrospective observational study on patients with diagnosed GI‐LMS from 2004 to 2020 within six high‐volume referral centers in Italy.

Results

Thirty‐three patients had diagnosis of KIT‐negative GI‐LMS confirmed by sarcoma‐expert pathologist. The most common site of origin was the intestine. Twenty‐two patients had localized disease and underwent surgery: with a median follow‐up of 72 months, median disease‐free survival was 42 months. Overall survival (OS)‐rate at 5 years was 73% and median OS was 193 months. Five out of 10 patients with local relapse received a salvage surgery, and 2/5 remained with no evidence of disease. Thirteen patients received neoadjuvant (6) or adjuvant (7) chemotherapy, and 2/13 patients remained free from relapse. The median OS for patients with metastatic LMS was 16.4 months.

Conclusion

GI‐LMS is very rare and extremely aggressive subgroup of sarcomas with a high tendency to systemic spread. Localized GI‐LMS at diagnosis may be cured if treated with adequate surgery with or without (neo) adjuvant chemotherapy, while de‐novo metastatic disease appeared to have a poor prognosis. Clinical effort to understand GI‐LMS biology and clinical behavior and to develop active treatment strategy, especially for metastatic‐disease, is warranted.
Endodontic management of type IIIb dens invaginatus in central incisor: A case report
Authors: Ghandi Mostafa , Jadidi Soheila
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

We described a type IIIb dens invaginatus, its root canal treatment, and results on 3‐ and 12‐month visits. Despite its significant challenges, proper endodontic therapy in such cases can cause positive prognosis and successful outcome.
Supporting the right ventricle in postcardiotomy renal dysfunction: A case series
Authors: Sow Mami , Seadler Benjamin D. , Chandratre Sonal R. , Koratala Abhilash , Carlson Samuel F. , Joyce Lyle D. , Kohmoto Takushi , Durham Lucian A. , Joyce David L.
Published: July 2023

Key Clinical Message

Postcardiotomy RV dysfunction is an under‐recognized cause of acute kidney injury (AKI). Insertion of a percutaneous right ventricular assist device (RVAD) reduces central venous hypertension and congestive nephropathy by augmenting cardiac output. In selected patients, percutaneous RVAD insertion may improve renal function and obviate the need for long‐term dialysis.
Aqueous Polyelectrolyte Electrodeposition: The Effects of Alkyl Substitution and Varying Supporting Electrolyte Concentrations on the Deposition Efficiency
Authors: Gersdorf Sophie , Schildknecht Vincent , Schumann Erik , Seidel Sarah , Torger Bernhard , Prasser Quirin , Frenzel Ninett , Lißner Andreas , Heitmann Johannes , Mertens Florian , Frisch Gero , A. Plamper Felix
Published: July 2023

The controlled growth of surface‐modifying polymer films by electrodeposition often fails because of the lack of redox activity of these compounds. Here, electroactive complexants help to electrodeposit non‐electroactive polymers. Hence, we investigate the counterion‐induced electrodeposition of polyelectrolytes: three quaternized poly(N,N‐dialkylaminoethyl methacrylate)s (qPDAAEMA), in particular their methyl, ethyl, and isopropyl derivatives (i. e. qPDMAEMA, qPDEAEMA, and qPDPAEMA), provide transparent solutions in the presence of hexacyanoferrate(II) (ferrocyanide) at specific concentration windows of the KCl supporting electrolyte. Below a certain KCl concentration, insolubility dominates irrespective of the hexacyanoferrate valency, whilst above an upper threshold, full solubility is observed. Between these limits, oxidation reversibly electrodeposits polymer/hexacyanoferrate(III) (ferricyanide) complexes. Hydrodynamic voltammetry (and data analysis using in‐house software) provides access to the deposition efficiency (DE). qPDEAEMA with ethyl substituents shows highest DEs; larger or smaller substituents fall short because of a balance between “hydrophobicity” and charge separation, shifting the window toward smaller salt concentrations with increasing alkyl size. We always observe a DE maximum close to the minimum salt concentration, whilst electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM) measurements indicate a change in film water content close to the maximum. These effects, being also discussed in terms of polymer conformation, can direct the future engineering of electroassisted coatings.
Straightforward Synthesis of Halopyridine Aldehydes via Diaminomethylation
Authors: Koidan Georgyi , Zahorulko Serhii , Hurieva Anastasiia , Shvydenko Tetiana , Rusanov Eduard B. , Rozhenko Alexander B. , Manthe Uwe , Kostyuk Aleksandr
Published: July 2023

A novel two‐step method for formylation of fluoropyridines with silylformamidine Me3SiC(=NMe)NMe2 (1) under catalyst‐free conditions was developed. A series of all possible 18 fluoropyridines featuring one to four fluorine atoms were subjected to the reaction with 1 existing in equilibrium with its carbenic form Me2NC(:)N(Me)SiMe3 (1′). Among them, 12 fluoropyridines were shown to react via C−H insertion. The reaction proceeded either at β‐ or γ‐positions affording the corresponding aminals. The more fluorine atoms in pyridines, the easier the reaction proceeded. We also hypothesized that the pyridines in which the fluorine was substituted by other halogens would react in a similar manner. To test the hypothesis, a set of 3,5‐disubstituted pyridines with various combination of halogen atoms was prepared. 3,5‐Difluoropyridine was taken as a compound for comparison. All the pyridines in the series also reacted likewise. In most cases, hydrolysis of the aminals afforded the corresponding aldehydes. As DFT calculations indicate, the reaction mechanism includes deprotonation of pyridine by 1′ as a strong base and the following rearrangement of the formed tight ionic pair to the final product. An alternative reaction pathway involving addition of 1′ to the pyridine carbon with the following hydrogen transfer via a three‐membered transition state structure required much higher activation energy.
Angioedema‐like eyelid edema following the second NVX‐CoV2373 COVID‐19 vaccination
Authors: Matsumoto Mari , Kawakami Yoshio , Miyake Tomoko , Hirai Yoji , Kataoka Hitomi , Otsuka Fumio , Morizane Shin
Published: July 2023

A 43‐year‐old woman developed angioedema‐like eyelid edema on day +6 after the second NVX‐CoV2373 vaccination. Short‐term oral prednisolone treatment resulted in complete resolution of the eyelid edema.
Singularities almost always scatter: Regularity results for non‐scattering inhomogeneities
Authors: Cakoni Fioralba , Vogelius Michael S.
Published: July 2023

In this paper we examine necessary conditions for an inhomogeneity to be non‐scattering, or equivalently, by negation, sufficient conditions for it to be scattering. These conditions are formulated in terms of the regularity of the boundary of the inhomogeneity. We examine broad classes of incident waves in both two and three dimensions. Our analysis is greatly influenced by the analysis carried out by Williams in order to establish that a domain, which does not possess the Pompeiu Property, has a real analytic boundary. That analysis, as well as ours, relies crucially on classical free boundary regularity results due to Kinderlehrer and Nirenberg, and Caffarelli.
Assessing Liver Effects of Cannabidiol and Valproate Alone and in Combination Using Quantitative Systems Toxicology
Authors: Lakhani Vinal V. , Generaux Grant , Howell Brett A. , Longo Diane M. , Watkins Paul B.
Published: July 2023

In clinical trials of cannabidiol (CBD) for the treatment of seizures in patients with Dravet syndrome, Lennox–Gastaut syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis complex, elevations in serum alanine aminotransferase (ALT) > 3× the upper limit of normal were observed in some patents, but the incidence was much greater in patients who were receiving treatment with valproate (VPA) before starting CBD. To explore potential mechanisms underlying this interaction, we used DILIsym, a quantitative systems toxicology model, to predict ALT elevations in a simulated human population treated with CBD alone, VPA alone, and when CBD dosing was starting during treatment with VPA. We gathered in vitro data assessing the potential for CBD, the two major CBD metabolites, and VPA to cause hepatotoxicity via inhibition of bile acid transporters, mitochondrial dysfunction, and production of reactive oxygen species (ROS). Physiologically‐based pharmacokinetic models for CBD and VPA were used to predict liver exposure. DILIsym simulations predicted dose‐dependent ALT elevations from CBD treatment and this was predominantly driven by ROS production from the parent molecule. DILIsym also predicted VPA treatment to cause ALT elevations which were transient when mitochondrial biogenesis was incorporated into the model. Contrary to the clinical experience, simulation of 2 weeks treatment with VPA prior to introduction of CBD treatment did not predict an increase of the incidence of ALT elevations relative to CBD treatment alone. We conclude that the marked increased incidence of CBD‐associated ALT elevations in patients already receiving VPA is unlikely to involve the three major mechanisms of direct hepatotoxicity.
Treating addiction by proxy: How a family coach works with the parent using CRAFT
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2023

Patrick Doyle specializes in “family addiction coaching,” and he has good news. He calls it a “miracle story” in which he coached his client, the mother of a 35‐year‐old woman with an addiction, to use CRAFT. The work saved the life of the woman, who was pregnant, and the future grandchild of his client.
How to interpret ‘secret shopper’ studies of residential programs
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2023

Many parents want their children — even their adult children — with substance use disorders (SUDs) to be in residential treatment. They feel that it's safe. They don't want them to have outpatient buprenorphine or methadone, despite the fact that these medications are first line treatment for opioid use disorders (OUDs). In addition, many of these children do not have opioid problems — increasingly, stimulants are a problem, and alcohol and marijuana always have been; OUD medications don't work for these SUDs.
AACAP tells Senate help is needed to boost child and adolescent treatment workforce
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2023

At a May 17 hearing by the U.S. Senate Committee on Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Subcommittee on Primary Health and Retirement Security, AACAP president Warren Y.K. Ng, M.D. pleaded with legislators for more treatment providers for young people with mental health problems.
8% of mental health patients have comorbid OUD: Study
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2023

The 8% of patients with mental health conditions who have opioid use disorder (OUD) are at high risk for overdose, according to a study that analyzed a large state‐wide Medicaid claims database.
Foster care better than orphanage care: Family important
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: July 2023

New research shows that children exposed to early psychosocial deprivation benefit substantially from family‐based care. The results were presented by senior author Kathryn L. Humphreys, Ph.D., at the 2023 annual meeting of the American Psychiatric Association. Results of research from the Bucharest Early Intervention Project, the first randomized controlled trial of foster care as an alternative to institutional (orphanage) care, showed that the positive effects of foster care last more than two decades.
Agarose‐based 3D Cell Confinement Assay to Study Nuclear Mechanobiology
Authors: Elpers Margaret A. , Varlet Alice‐Anais , Agrawal Richa , Lammerding Jan
Published: July 2023

Cells in living tissues are exposed to substantial mechanical forces and constraints imposed by neighboring cells, the extracellular matrix, and external factors. Mechanical forces and physical confinement can drive various cellular responses, including changes in gene expression, cell growth, differentiation, and migration, all of which have important implications in physiological and pathological processes, such as immune cell migration or cancer metastasis. Previous studies have shown that nuclear deformation induced by 3D confinement promotes cell contractility but can also cause DNA damage and changes in chromatin organization, thereby motivating further studies in nuclear mechanobiology. In this protocol, we present a custom‐developed, easy‐to‐use, robust, and low‐cost approach to induce precisely defined physical confinement on cells using agarose pads with micropillars and externally applied weights. We validated the device by confirming nuclear deformation, changes in nuclear area, and cell viability after confinement. The device is suitable for short‐ and long‐term confinement studies and compatible with imaging of both live and fixed samples, thus presenting a versatile approach to studying the impact of 3D cell confinement and nuclear deformation on cellular function. This article contains detailed protocols for the fabrication and use of the confinement device, including live cell imaging and labeling of fixed cells for subsequent analysis. These protocols can be amended for specific applications. © 2023 Wiley Periodicals LLC.

Basic Protocol 1: Design and fabrication of the confinement device wafer

Basic Protocol 2: Cell confinement assay

Support Protocol 1: Fixation and staining of cells after confinement

Support protocol 2: Live/dead staining of cells during confinement
Evolutionary and expression analysis of starch synthase genes from Tartary buckwheat revealed the potential function of FtGBSSII‐4 and FtGBSSII‐5 in seed amylose biosynthesis
Authors: Wang Lei , Liu Linling , Wu Huala , Li Chenglei , Zhao Haixia , Wu Qi
Published: July 2023

The starch synthase has been identified well as a core enzyme in the starch biosynthesis pathway in monocots. However, only a few starch synthase genes (SSs) are known in dicots. Tartary buckwheat (Fagopyrum tataricum Gaertn.) is one of the dicots‐enriched starch in the seeds, but its starch synthesis pathway remains unclear. Here, 15 SS genes were identified in the Tartary buckwheat genome, including 5 granule‐bound starch synthase (GBSS) and 10 soluble starch synthase (SSS) genes. Evolutionary analysis showed that all FtGBSSs belonged to GBSSII, and its isoforms were more abundant than other dicots due to the segmental duplication events. Expression pattern analysis showed two GBSS genes (FtGBSSII‐4 and FtGBSSII‐5) and three SSS genes (FtSSII‐2, FtSSIII‐1, and FtSSIV‐2) were mainly expressed in seeds, indicating that they may be the dominant isoforms for the starch synthesis in Tartary buckwheat. Besides, 23 transcription factor genes out of 1073 were identified from 17 transcription factor families and highly expressed in seeds. Expression correlation analysis suggested that FtNF‐YB2 may be the promising regulators for FtSSs. These results provide new insights and a theoretical basis for understanding starch synthesis and regulation in Tartary buckwheat and other dicots.
Photoreforming for Lignin Upgrading: A Critical Review
Authors: Cheng Xi , Palma Bruna , Zhao Heng , Zhang Hongguang , Wang Jiu , Chen Zhangxin , Hu Jinguang
Published: July 2023

Photoreforming of lignocellulosic biomass to simultaneously produce gas fuels and value‐added chemicals has gradually emerged as a promising strategy to alleviate the fossil fuels crisis. Compared to cellulose and hemicellulose, the exploitation and utilization of lignin via photoreforming are still at the early and more exciting stages. This Review systematically summarizes the latest progress on the photoreforming of lignin‐derived model components and “real” lignin, aiming to provide insights for lignin photocatalytic valorization from fundamental to industrial applications. Considering the complexity of lignin physicochemical properties, related analytic methods are also introduced to characterize lignin photocatalytic conversion and product distribution. We finally put forward the challenges and perspective of lignin photoreforming, hoping to provide some guidance to valorize biomass into value‐added chemicals and fuels via a mild photoreforming process in the future.
Angio‐based coronary functional assessment predicts 30‐day new‐onset heart failure after acute myocardial infarction
Authors: Luo Da , Wu Hui , Zhou Wenjie , Zhang Jing , Jin Xing , Xu Changwu , Huang Bing , Yang Jian , Jiang Hong , Chen Jing
Published: July 2023

Aims

Suboptimal perfusion leading to heart failure (HF) often occurs after ST‐segment elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI), despite restoration of epicardial coronary flow in primary percutaneous coronary intervention (PPCI) era. We determined the clinical implications of angio‐based coronary functional assessment in evaluation of suboptimal perfusion and further outcomes among STEMI patients after successful PPCI.

Methods and results

In this study, STEMI patients in the Chinese STEMI PPCI registry trial (NCT04996901) who achieved post‐PPCI thrombolysis in myocardial infarction grade 3 flow were retrospectively screened. Post‐procedural quantitative flow ratio (QFR), angio‐based microvascular resistance (AMR), and coronary flow velocity (CFV) of the infarct‐related artery were calculated. QFR and AMR measure epicardial stenosis severity and microvascular resistance, respectively. QFR+ was defined as QFR < 0.90 while QFR− was QFR ≥ 0.90. AMR+ was defined as AMR ≥ 250 mmHg*s/m while AMR− was AMR < 250 mmHg*s/m. The primary outcome was 30‐day new‐onset HF. The Kaplan–Meier curves were used to establish the associations between QFR, AMR, CFV, and HF incidences. The relationship between CFV and combined QFR and AMR indices was further assessed. Independent predictors were determined using Cox regression analysis. The receiver‐operating characteristic curve was used to assess discriminant ability to predict HF. A total of 942 patients (mean age was 57.8 ± 11.7 years and 84.6% were men) were enrolled. Among them, 129 patients had new‐onset HF episodes. Patients in the QFR−/AMR− group had a low risk of HF compared with those in the QFR+/AMR+ group (10.5% vs. 27.3%, P = 0.027). A higher CFV ≥ 17.4 cm/s was associated with low HF incidences as compared with CFV < 17.4 cm/s (10.3% vs. 16.8%, P = 0.005), whereas isolated QFR or AMR did not reveal any marked differences in HF incidences (P = 0.150 and 0.079, respectively). The highest and lowest medians of CFV were observed in the QFR−/AMR− and QFR+/AMR+ groups, respectively. CFV correlated well with the QFR/AMR ratio (adjusted R2 = 1, P < 0.001) and post‐PPCI CFV was found to be an independent predictor of post‐STEMI HF (adjusted hazard ratio: 0.61, 95% confidence interval: 0.41–0.90, P = 0.012). The area under curve estimate of the multivariable regression model was 0.749.

Conclusions

CFV is an integrated coronary physiological assessment approach that incorporates epicardial and microcirculatory contributions. Patients with post‐PPCI CFV < 17.4 cm/s were strongly associated with a high risk for post‐STEMI HF, even achieving thrombolysis in myocardial infarction grade 3 flow. The immediate angio‐based coronary functional assessment is a feasible tool for evaluating suboptimal perfusion and risk stratification.
Hydrothermal Synthesis of Mixed Oxide Compositions of Cobalt‐Zirconium and their Catalytic Activity in the Decomposition of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Ivanenko Oleksandr , Pavlenko Tamara , Pohorenko Yuliia , Bykov Valeriy
Published: July 2023

The article presents the results of research on the hydrothermal synthesis of nanoscale oxide of cobalt and zirconium and their mixed oxide compositions. The synthesized samples have been characterized by the X‐ray phase, scanning electron microscopy and nitrogen adsorption‐desorption methods; the composition of the samples has been determined by chemical analysis methods, and their catalytic activity in the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide has been studied. It has been shown that during synthesis, highly dispersed cobalt and zirconium oxide are formed, and the sample of the composition (mol %): Co3O4(88)−ZrO2(12) has the highest specific surface area (181.2 m2/g) and the highest activity (K=6.18 ⋅ 10−2 s−1) against the decomposition of hydrogen peroxide. The increasing of the ZrO2 content in oxide compositions reduces their catalytic activity. The particle size in the synthesized samples is 7–38 nm.
Difluoromethoxylated Ketones as Building Blocks for the Synthesis of Challenging OCF2H‐Bearing N‐Heterocycles
Authors: Loison Anaïs , Hanquet Gilles , Toulgoat Fabien , Billard Thierry , Panossian Armen , Leroux Frédéric R.
Published: July 2023

We report herein an unprecedented synthesis of difluoromethoxylated nitrogen‐containing heterocycles from the corresponding α‐(difluoromethoxy)ketones as versatile building blocks. Pyrazoles, isoxazoles and pyrimidines could be obtained via an enaminone intermediate, whereas in the direct reaction of α‐(difluoromethoxy)ketones with arylhydrazines, a Fischer indole synthesis was achieved. All these scaffolds, which are uncommon, or even sometimes novel, due to the directly attached emerging fluorinated group (EFG) −OCF2H, might be of high potential in life sciences and appear as an interesting alternative to more and more controversial classical fluorinated groups, such as the ubiquitous trifluoromethyl group.
Clinical relevance of resistance training in women with fibromyalgia: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Rodríguez‐Domínguez Álvaro‐José , Rebollo‐Salas Manuel , Chillón‐Martínez Raquel , Rosales‐Tristancho Abel , Jiménez‐Rejano José‐Jesús
Published: July 2023

Background and Objective

There has been an increase in the number of papers assessing the effects of resistance training (RT) in patients with fibromyalgia. Therefore, the objective of our study was to evaluate the clinical relevance and effectiveness of RT for pain intensity, functionality and severity of the disease specifically in women with fibromyalgia through a systematic review with meta‐analysis.

Databases and Data Treatment

Seven databases were searched. Randomized controlled trials conducted in women over 18 years of age with fibromyalgia were included. Fifteen trials were included in the systematic review and 14 of these studies were included in the three meta‐analyses performed. Study quality assessment was performed using the PEDro scale. In addition, the GRADE recommendations were used.

Results

The global meta‐analysis revealed statistically significant differences in the RT group versus the control group on pain intensity (SMD = −0.49; 95% CI [−0.74, −0.24],p = 0.0001), functionality (SMD = −0.23; 95% CI [0.01, 0.45],p = 0.04) and on severity of the disease (SMD = −0.58; 95% CI [−0.90, −0.26],p = 0.0005). Clinically relevant improvements in the overall outcome of the three variables studied in favour of RT were obtained.

Conclusions

RT is effective to improve pain intensity, functionality and severity of the disease in women with fibromyalgia. These improvements are clinically relevant. More clinical trials of RT are needed in women with fibromyalgia to support our results due to the low strength of evidence.

Significance

This systematic review with meta‐analysis provides evidence that RT produces clinically relevant improvements in women with fibromyalgia. The absence of immediate benefit is often a major barrier to adherence to treatment. Our findings will help clinicians to empower patients that if they continue treatment, they will achieve improvement in their disease.
More than a prejudice reduction effect: Positive intergroup contact reduces conspiracy theory beliefs
Authors: Jolley Daniel , Seger Charles R. , Meleady Rose
Published: July 2023

Emerging research suggests intergroup contact has broader implications than prejudice reduction. In three studies, we explored whether positive intergroup contact may serve as a means to reduce conspiracy beliefs. Study 1 (n = 287, pre‐registered) demonstrated that (high quality) contact with immigrants predicted lower belief in immigrant conspiracy theories, a finding that remained when controlling for prejudice. This was replicated in a second study (N = 501), where positive contact with Jewish people predicted lower Jewish conspiracy beliefs. A third study (N = 214) provided experimental evidence of this effect by manipulating exposure to positive contact through mental imagery. In exploratory analyses, we also found that positive contact was associated with lower general conspiracy theorizing via reduced immigrant (Study 1) and Jewish (Study 2) conspiracy beliefs. Our work develops a framework where positive contact could be used as an important tool to reduce harmful conspiracy beliefs.
Credit default swaps and firm risk
Authors: Lin Hai , Nguyen Binh Hoang , Wang Junbo , Zhang Cheng
Published: July 2023

This study investigates how initiating a credit default swap (CDS) affects firm risk. Using the firm value volatility as a measure of firm risk, we document that firm risk decreases following the commencement of CDS trading. Further analysis indicates that the empty creditor channel, which arises when a debt holder with CDS protection has no interest in preserving the company it provides funds, is the primary way of influence. Our findings reveal a significant impact of financial innovation on a firm's behavior. We also document that market frictions affect the degree of such effect.
Dynamics of reactive astrocytes fosters tissue regeneration after cuprizone‐induced demyelination
Authors: Schröder Lara‐Jasmin , Mulenge Felix , Pavlou Andreas , Skripuletz Thomas , Stangel Martin , Gudi Viktoria , Kalinke Ulrich
Published: July 2023

Demyelination in the central nervous system (CNS) is a hallmark of many neurodegenerative diseases such as multiple sclerosis (MS) and others. Here, we studied astrocytes during de‐ and remyelination in the cuprizone mouse model. To this end, we exploited the ribosomal tagging (RiboTag) technology that is based on Cre‐mediated cell type‐selective HA‐tagging of ribosomes. Analyses were performed in the corpus callosum of GFAP‐Cre+/−Rpl22HA/wt mice 5 weeks after cuprizone feeding, at the peak of demyelination, and 0.5 and 2 weeks after cuprizone withdrawal, when remyelination and tissue repair is initiated. After 5 weeks of cuprizone feeding, reactive astrocytes showed inflammatory signatures with enhanced expression of genes that modulate leukocyte migration (Tlr2, Cd86, Parp14) and they produced the chemokine CXCL10, as verified by histology. Furthermore, demyelination‐induced reactive astrocytes expressed numerous ligands including Cx3cl1, Csf1, Il34, and Gas6 that act on homeostatic as well as activated microglia and thus potentially mediate activation and recruitment of microglia and enhancement of their phagocytotic activity. During early remyelination, HA‐tagged cells displayed reduced inflammatory response signatures, as indicated by shutdown of CXCL10 production, and enhanced expression of osteopontin (SPP1) as well as of factors that are relevant for tissue remodeling (Timp1), regeneration and axonal repair. During late remyelination, the signatures shifted towards resolving inflammation by active suppression of lymphocyte activation and differentiation and support of glia cell differentiation. In conclusion, we detected highly dynamic astroglial transcriptomic signatures in the cuprizone model, which reflects excessive communication among glia cells and highlights different astrocyte functions during neurodegeneration and regeneration.
Plasma glucose is not associated with performance on standard cognitive screening tests in a mixed memory clinic cohort—An observational cross‐sectional study
Authors: Gramkow Mathias Holsey , Simonsen Anja Hviid , Hasselbalch Steen Gregers , Waldemar Gunhild , Frederiksen Kristian Steen
Published: July 2023

Background

It has been shown under experimental conditions that cognitive performance, especially working memory, is impaired in patients with type I and type II diabetes mellitus during hyperglycemic and hypoglycemic conditions, perhaps due to altered cerebral glucose metabolism. It is not known if patients with neurodegenerative diseases, who also exhibit pathological cerebral glucose metabolism, are affected in a similar manner by their plasma glucose levels.

Objective

We aimed to test if performance on two cognitive screening tests was associated with plasma glucose levels in a memory clinic cohort.

Methods

We included patients from the Copenhagen Memory Clinic Cohort with an available Mini Mental‐State Examination (MMSE) test score and a plasma glucose measurement performed in conjunction with cognitive testing. We built linear regression models with MMSE and Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination (ACE) test scores as the outcome and plasma glucose as the explaining variable and adjusted models for age, sex, and diabetes (plasma glucose measurement >11.1 mmol/L). We explored non‐linear relationships by adding quadratic terms and by fitting a cubic spline regression model.

Results

In total, 2714 patients had an available MMSE score and a plasma glucose measurement. MMSE and ACE total scores were not associated with plasma glucose in a linear or non‐linear fashion when we adjusted for age, sex, and diabetes.

Conclusion

Plasma glucose levels, predominantly within normal ranges, were not associated with performance on routinely applied cognitive tests and do not need to be taken into consideration when interpreting test results from memory clinic patients.
Mobility limitations and emotional dysfunction in old age: The moderating effects of physical activity and social ties
Authors: Gyasi Razak M. , Asante Felix , Hambali Mohammed Gazali , Odei Julius , Jacob Louis , Obeng Bernard , Peprah Prince , Asamoah Edward , Agyemang‐Duah Williams , Abass Kabila , Asiki Gershim , Adam Anokye M.
Published: July 2023

Background

This study aims to examine the association between mobility limitations and emotional dysfunction among older Ghanaians and evaluate the buffering effect of physical activity (PA) and social ties in this association.

Methods

The analysis included 1201 adults aged ≥50 from the 2016‐17 Aging, Health, Psychological Well‐being, and Health‐seeking Behavior study. The Medical Outcomes Study Short Form‐36 (MOS SF‐36) assessed mobility limitations and emotional dysfunction. We measured PA using the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ‐SF). Hierarchical OLS regressions were performed to evaluate the hypothesized direct and interactive relationships.

Results

The mean age of the sample was 66.2 (SD = 11.9), and 63.3% were women. After full adjustment for potential confounders, OLS regressions found that mobility limitations increased the risk of emotional dysfunction (β = 0.113, p = 0.004). Moreover, social ties (β = −0.157, p < 0.001) and PA (β = −0.096, p < 0.001) were independently and negatively associated with emotional dysfunction. We finally found a significant effect modification of the association of mobility limitations with emotional dysfunction by PA (β = −0.040, p < 0.002) and social ties (β = −0.013, p = 0.013).

Conclusions

Mobility‐enhancing strategies such as engagement in positive behavioral choices, focusing on regular PA, and maintaining resourceful interpersonal social networks can mitigate the impact of mobility limitations on emotional dysfunction in later life.
Long‐term impacts of an early childhood shock on human capital: Evidence from the 1999 economic crisis in Ecuador
Authors: Pacheco Jimena , Wagner Natascha
Published: July 2023

This paper provides evidence on the lasting effects of the 1999 economic crisis in Ecuador on human capital formation. We show for children born during the crisis that the negative repercussions are still observable more than 10 years after macroeconomic recovery. Taking advantage of micro‐level data collected in 2012 and 2014, we assess long‐term impacts on health and education. After controlling for age‐in‐months and survey effects as well as a linear birth year‐cohort trend that varies by region, we find that after 12–16 years, the cohorts born during the recession report height‐for‐age Z‐scores that are 0.003 standard deviations (SDs) lower for each month of exposure and have 0.002 fewer years of schooling per month exposed compared to the cohorts born outside the recession years. Children exposed to the entire crisis are 0.063 SDs smaller and have 0.042 years less of schooling. Girls have lower health outcomes than boys. Concomitantly, we show that selective childbearing or excess infant mortality are unlikely to drive our results. The persistence of the negative effects points to the existence of a poverty trap suggesting that policy interventions in response to (economic) crizes should be extended beyond macroeconomic recovery to counteract long‐term, micro‐level consequences.
Taxonomic identification of bile salt hydrolase‐encoding lactobacilli: Modulation of the enterohepatic bile acid profile
Authors: Song Ziwei , Feng Shuo , Zhou Xingchen , Song Zhengxing , Li Jing , Li Ping
Published: July 2023

Bile salt hydrolases (BSHs) are enzymes that are essential for the enterohepatic metabolism of bile acids (BAs). BSHs catalyze the production of unconjugated BAs and regulate the homeostasis of BA pool. This study identified Lactobacillus as a crucial BSH‐encoding genus, and 16 main species were obtained using metagenomic data from publicly available human gut microbiome databases. Then, the 16 species of lactobacilli were classified into four typical categories by BSH phylotypes, including five species encoding BSH‐T0, six species encoding BSH‐T2, four species encoding BSH‐T3, and Ligilactobacillus salivarius encoding both BSH‐T0 and BSH‐T3. The lactobacilli with the highest in vitro deconjugation activities against seven conjugated BAs were the BSH‐T3‐encoding strains. Furthermore, in vivo studies in mice administered four representative lactobacilli strains encoding different BSH phylotypes showed that treatment with BSH‐T3‐encoding Limosilactobacillus reuteri altered the structure of the gut microbiome and metabolome and significantly increased the levels of unconjugated BAs and total BA excretion. Our findings facilitated the taxonomic identification of crucial BSH‐encoding lactobacilli in human gut microbiota and shed light on their contributions toward modulation of the enterohepatic circulation of BAs, which will contribute to future therapeutic applications of BSH‐encoding probiotics to improve human health.
Assessment of portal system hemodynamics for the prediction of portal vein thrombosis in cirrhosis—A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Giri Suprabhat , Singh Ankita , Kolhe Kailash , Kozyk Marko , Roy Akash
Published: July 2023

Background

The pathogenesis of portal vein thrombosis (PVT) in cirrhosis is multifactorial, with altered hemodynamics being proposed as a possible contributor. The present systematic review was conducted to study the role of assessment of portal hemodynamics for the prediction of PVT in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

Three databases (Medline, Embase, and Scopus) were searched from inception to February 2023 for studies comparing portal venous system parameters in patients with cirrhosis developing PVT with those not. Results were presented as mean difference (MD) or odds ratio (OR) with their 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

A total of 31 studies (patients with cirrhosis: 19 studies, patients with cirrhosis undergoing splenectomy: 12 studies) were included. On pooling the data from multivariable analyses of the included studies, a larger portal vein diameter was a significant predictor of PVT in patients with cirrhosis without or with splenectomy with OR 1.74 (1.12–2.69) and OR 1.55 (1.26–1.92), respectively. On the other hand, a lower portal vein velocity (PVV) was a significant predictor of PVT in cirrhotics without or with splenectomy with OR 0.93 (0.91–0.96) and OR 0.71 (0.61–0.83), respectively. A PVV of <15 cm/s was the most commonly used cut‐off for the prediction of PVT. Patients developing PVT also had a significantly higher splenic length, thickness, and splenic vein velocity.

Conclusion

The assessment of portal hemodynamic parameters at baseline evaluation in patients with cirrhosis may predict the development of PVT. Further studies are required to determine the optimal cut‐offs for various parameters.
Utilization of spent coffee grounds as fillers to prepare polypropylene composites for food packaging applications
Authors: Song Wenmin , Yang Yuncong , Cheng Xiuwen , Jiang Mingming , Zhang Rui , Militky Jiri , Cai Yurong
Published: July 2023

Biomass‐derived wastes as the additive of nondegradable plastics have been paid more attention due to the ever‐growing environmental pollution and energy crisis. Herein, the spent coffee grounds (SCG) have been used as fillers in polypropylene (PP) after the heat treatment to realize its recycling utilization. The effect of the heat treatment atmosphere on the properties of the obtained SCG and SCG/PP composites has been investigated systematically. The results show that the residual coffee oil can be removed more thoroughly under an air atmosphere than under a nitrogen atmosphere at a relatively low cost and an eco‐friendly process. The lower residual oil rate of SCG is beneficial to improve the comminution and further enhance the affinity with the PP matrix. The obtained SCG/PP composites hold lower water absorption, higher hydrophobicity, and better mechanical properties, implying their potential applications in the field of food packaging.

Research Highlights

Spent coffee grounds have been used as fillers in PP after the heat treatment.

The heat treatment in the air is more favorable for the removal of the coffer oil of SCG.

The low residual oil rate in SCG can improve its comminution and affinity with PP.

The SCG/PP composites hold excellent performances for food packaging applications.
Retroviral b‐Zip protein (HBZ) contributes to the release of soluble and exosomal immune checkpoint molecules in the context of neuroinflammation
Authors: Joseph Julie , Premeaux Thomas A. , Pinto Daniel O. , Rao Abhishek , Guha Shrobona , Panfil Amanda R. , Carey Alison J. , Ndhlovu Lishomwa C. , Bergmann‐Leitner Elke S. , Jain Pooja
Published: July 2023

HTLV‐I‐associated myelopathy/tropical spastic paraparesis (HAM/TSP) is a chronic, progressive, neuroinflammatory demyelinating condition of the spinal cord. We have previously shown that aberrant expression and activity of immune checkpoint (ICP) molecules such as PD‐1 and PD‐L1/PD‐L2, negatively associates with the cytolytic potential of T cells in individuals with HAM/TSP. Interestingly, ICPs can exist in a soluble cell‐free form and can be carried on extracellular vesicles (EVs) and exosomes (small EVs, <300 nm) while maintaining their immunomodulatory activity. Therefore, we investigated the role of soluble and exosomal ICPs in HTLV‐1 associated neuroinflammation. For the very first time, we demonstrate a unique elevated presence of several stimulatory (CD27, CD28, 4‐1BB) and inhibitory (BTLA, CTLA‐4, LAG‐3, PD‐1, PD‐L2) ICP receptors in HAM/TSP sera, and in purified exosomes from a HAM/TSP‐derived HTLV‐1‐producing (OSP2) cells. These ICPs were found to be co‐localized with the endosomal sorting complex required for transport (ESCRT) pathway proteins and exhibited functional binding with their respective ligands. Viral proteins and cytokines (primarily IFNγ) were found to be present in purified exosomes. IFNγ exposure enhanced the release of ICP molecules while antiretroviral drugs (Azidothymidine and Lopinavir) significantly inhibited this process. HTLV‐1 b‐Zip protein (HBZ) has been linked to factors that enhance EV release and concurrent knockdown here led to the reduced expression of ESCRT associated genes (e.g., Hrs, Vsp4, Alix, Tsg101) as well as abrogated the release of ICP molecules, suggesting HBZ involvement in this process. Moreso, exosomes from OSP2 cells adversely affected CD8 T‐cell functions by diminishing levels of cytokines and cytotoxic factors. Collectively, these findings highlight exosome‐mediated immunomodulation of T‐cell functions with HBZ and ESCRT pathways as an underlying mechanism in the context of HTLV‐1‐induced neuroinflammation.
Competency‐based assessment of procedural skills in resident training
Authors: Meliagros Pete , Garber Adam , Sadr Nargiza , Forrest Rebecca , Qayyum Rehan
Published: July 2023

Background

No standardized summative tools exist to assess competency in bedside procedures or provide residents and programs with summative feedback.

Objective

To provide competency‐based procedure training and feedback to residents, we created a procedure competency committee (PCC). Here, we describe the PCC process, its impact on procedure training, and examine residents' attainment of competency in bedside procedures.

Design, Setting, and Participants

The PCC consisted of hospitalists and met twice annually to review resident procedure portfolios for three academic years 2019–2022 at a university‐based internal medicine residency program. Residents were designated to one of the five competency levels; being able to participate, perform under supervision with assistance, perform under direct supervision (DS) without assistance, perform independently with indirect supervision (IS), and perform independently with IS and supervise others. We analyzed the probability of advancing competency levels with each additional procedure using multinomial logistic regression models.

Results

Of the 97 residents, 48 (49.5%) were women and 60 (62%) subsequently matched in procedure‐oriented fields. More residents achieved IS level for paracentesis than for lumbar puncture (LP) or central venous catheterization (CVC) (62 vs. 25 and 37, respectively; p < .001). Each incremental procedure performed was associated with a higher chance of being advanced to IS group from the DS group; 1.31 times for paracentesis (95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.07, 1.60; p < .008), 1.83 times for LP (95% CI = 1.35, 2.47; p = .0001), and two times for CVC (95% CI = 1.32, 3.05; p = .001).

Conclusion

The PCC provided competency‐based assessment of a resident's procedural skills and may be used to assess the impact of curriculum changes.
Soft tissues influence nasal airflow in diapsids: Implications for dinosaurs
Authors: Bourke Jason M. , Witmer Lawrence M.
Published: July 2023

The nasal passage performs multiple functions in amniotes, including olfaction and thermoregulation. These functions would have been present in extinct animals as well. However, fossils preserve only low‐resolution versions of the nasal passage due to loss of soft‐tissue structures after death. To test the effects of these lower resolution models on interpretations of nasal physiology, we performed a broadly comparative analysis of the nasal passages in extant diapsid representatives, e.g., alligator, turkey, ostrich, iguana, and a monitor lizard. Using computational fluid dynamics, we simulated airflow through 3D reconstructed models of the different nasal passages and compared these soft‐tissue‐bounded results to similar analyses of the same airways under the lower‐resolution limits imposed by fossilization. Airflow patterns in these bony‐bounded airways were more homogeneous and slower flowing than those of their soft‐tissue counterparts. These data indicate that bony‐bounded airway reconstructions of extinct animal nasal passages are far too conservative and place overly restrictive physiological limitations on extinct species. In spite of the diverse array of nasal passage shapes, distinct similarities in airflow were observed, including consistent areas of nasal passage constriction such as the junction of the olfactory region and main airway. These nasal constrictions can reasonably be inferred to have been present in extinct taxa such as dinosaurs.