bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparative Efficacy and Safety of Three Janus Kinase Inhibitors in Ulcerative Colitis: A Real‐World Multicentre Study in Japan
Authors: Akiyama Shintaro , Shimizu Hiromichi , Tamura Akiko , Yokoyama Kaoru , Sakurai Toshiyuki , Kobayashi Mariko , Eizuka Makoto , Yanai Shunichi , Nomura Kei , Shibuya Tomoyoshi , Takahara Masahiro , Hiraoka Sakiko , Sako Minako , Yoshida Atsushi , Tsuruta Kozo , Yoshioka Shinichiro , Koroku Miki , Omori Teppei , Saruta Masayuki , Matsumoto Takayuki , Okamoto Ryuichi , Tsuchiya Kiichiro , Fujii Toshimitsu
Published: November 2024

Background

Three Janus kinase (JAK) inhibitors are approved for ulcerative colitis (UC) in Japan.

Aim

To compare the real‐world efficacy and safety of these three JAK inhibitors in UC.

Methods

This was a multicentre, retrospective study of patients with UC started on JAK inhibitors. The primary outcome was clinical remission at 10, 26 and 58 weeks, and at the most recent follow‐up. To compare the efficacy and safety among the JAK inhibitors, we created three matched cohorts (upadacitinib vs. filgotinib, tofacitinib vs. filgotinib and upadacitinib vs. tofacitinib) using propensity score matching.

Results

We identified 228 upadacitinib‐treated patients (median follow‐up 49 weeks; IQR 25–72), 215 filgotinib‐treated patients (follow‐up 56 weeks; IQR 17–82) and 159 tofacitinib‐treated patients (follow‐up 112 weeks; IQR 10–258). Clinical remission rates for upadacitinib, filgotinib and tofacitinib at the most recent follow‐up were 72.8%, 50.6% and 45.8%, respectively. Over 70% of the patients previously treated with other biologics or JAK inhibitors achieved clinical remission with upadacitinib. On multivariate analysis, the number of previous advanced therapies was inversely associated with the efficacy of filgotinib and tofacitinib. Comparative analysis showed that upadacitinib‐treated patients had higher efficacy and lower risk of discontinuation than patients treated with other JAK inhibitors. However, upadacitinib had a significant risk of acne.

Conclusions

Considering the particularly high efficacy of upadacitinib, even in patients with refractory UC, filgotinib or tofacitinib may be considered as an upfront JAK inhibitor before using upadacitinib.
Scale pattern of five species of Zeiformes (Teleostei)
Authors: Garcia Lucas C. , Moreira Cristiano R.
Published: November 2024

The order Zeiformes comprises a small order of predominantly deep‐sea fishes. However, little information is available on their morphology, such as squamation. Therefore, in the present study, we analysed and described the squamation pattern and scale morphology of five species of Zeiformes occurring on the Brazilian coast: Allocyttus verrucosus, Grammicolepis brachiusculus, Xenolepidichthys dalgleishi, Zenion hololepis and Zenopsis conchifer. Our analysis revealed greater morphological diversity than previously reported for this order. All species, except the scaleless Zenopsis conchifer, presented cycloid scales of spinoid subtype. Grammicolepis and Zenion presented exclusively scales of the spinoid subtype, whereas both Allocyttus and Xenolepidichthys also displayed true cycloid subtype. A. verrucosus is characterised by two distinct groups of scales of different sizes that form scale clusters. G. brachiusculus and X. dalgleishi presented a unique vertically elongated scale covering most of the body. Small bony plates were observed at the dorsal‐ and anal‐fin bases of G. brachiusculus, X. dalgleishi and Z. hololepis. The variation observed is putatively useful for the systematics of the order.
PBPK modelling for the evaluation of drug–drug interaction between meropenem and valproic acid
Authors: Liu Hongrui , Yu Yiqun , Qin Yulin , Han Bing
Published: November 2024

Aims

The present study aimed to quantitatively investigate the potential drug–drug interaction (DDI) mechanism between meropenem (MEPM) and valproic acid (VPA).

Methods

In the present study, we firstly developed a physiologically based pharmacokinetic (PBPK) model of MEPM and VPA. The verified PBPK model was then used to quantitatively investigate the potential DDI between MEPM and VPA. The effect of genetic polymorphisms of acylpeptide hydrolase (APEH) on DDI was also evaluated.

Results

In our simulation, the plasma concentration of hydrolysate of VPAG decreased to 63% when combined with MEPM. Total plasma concentration of VPA before carbapenem use was 53.61 mg/L, whereas it was 45.42 mg/L during carbapenem use. The inhibition of hydrolysis of VPAG by MEPM alone could not result in a rapid and substantial decrease in the plasma concentration of VPA. Parameter sensitivity analysis showed that the changes of absorption played an important role in the maximum plasma concentration (Cmax) of VPA, whereas area under the plasma concentration–time profile (AUC) was more susceptible to elimination changes. In addition, a decrease in APEH activity had little impact on the plasma pharmacokinetics of VPA.

Conclusions

The DDI between MEPM and VPA might be a comprehensive result of multiple factors. On the basis of our simulation, interval medication of MEPM injection and VPA immediate release tablet at 4–6 h timed interval was recommended, or intravenous administration of VPA solution was preferred when combination regimen was necessary in a clinical setting.
‘Not my mess’?: How do supporters of individuals with hoarding difficulties rate the quality of the support they offer?
Authors: Dennis James , Rosen Kate , Salkovskis Paul M
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Hoarding difficulties (HD) affect many people and cause upset and danger for the person, as well as friends and family. Previous research found that people with HD feel less adequately socially supported compared with individuals with obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD). This study used the perspective of those offering support to infer whether people with HD view their support differently, or if there is a gap in support quality compared with those with OCD.

Design

The design was cross‐sectional, comparing those supporting OCD with those supporting HD.

Methods

An online questionnaire was completed by 116 people offering support (POS) to people with these conditions. Support quality was measured using an adapted, proxy version of the Revised Norbeck Social Support Questionnaire. The research hypothesized that POS(HD) would not differ on support ratings compared with POS(OCD); or that POS(HD) would report comparatively lower ratings across support components. Secondary analysis investigated group differences in stigmatized attitudes and associative stigma; internalized stigma by virtue of having a connection to a stigmatized individual.

Results

POS(HD) rated their wish to support and the perceived success as significantly lower. Public stigma was rated more highly by POS(HD) relative to POS(OCD) and associative stigma felt more acutely by POS(HD).

Conclusions

Motivation to support was significantly lower in the HD group with associative stigma a significant predictive factor. Further research involving dyads is needed to investigate what is causing this shortfall in support. Clinical research for HD interventions should also examine how involving POS could enhance treatment outcomes.
Technology‐Aided Customer Experience Innovation: Implementation Modes in Retail
Authors: Artusi Federico , Magistretti Stefano , Bellini Emilio , Dell'Era Claudio
Published: November 2024

Retailers are increasingly leveraging emerging digital technologies to enhance and deliver memorable and timely customer experiences. However, more research is needed to understand how these technologies are being implemented. Therefore, we conducted an fsQCA analysis of 32 retail cases of early adopters of beacon technology. Our findings reveal three main modes of implementation of emerging digital technologies in the retail customer experience: automation, augmentation, and customization. These modes can be interpreted as enablers that enhance the value of utilitarian and/or hedonic experiences, rather than as drivers of innovation per se. Our study adds a new perspective to the debate about the role of digital technologies in driving innovation. Moreover, the three modes identified provide managers with practical guidelines for the implementation of emerging digital technologies in retail environments.
Parent–adolescent communication in a digital world: A 100‐day diary study
Authors: Janssen Loes H. C. , Beyens Ine , Bij de Vaate Nadia A. J. D. , van der Wal Amber , Valkenburg Patti M. , Keijsers Loes
Published: November 2024

Digital technology enables parents and adolescents to communicate anywhere and anytime. Knowledge of parent–adolescent online communication, however, is mainly based on cross‐sectional studies. In this preregistered 100‐day diary study, 479 adolescents (Mage = 15.98, 54.9% girls; 96.9% Dutch) reported daily if they had communicated with their parents online, how long (i.e., duration), and what they discussed (i.e., topics). Parent–adolescent online communication took place on 43% of days, for an average of 20 min a day, and predominantly concerned micro‐coordination. Five profiles of parent–adolescent online communication were identified, with most adolescents (55.4%) communicating relatively infrequently and briefly. Boys and younger adolescents communicated longer than girls and older adolescents. Although parent–adolescent online contact is possible all day, very few adolescents do so.
Prospective Clinical Study on the Accuracy of Static Computer‐Assisted Implant Surgery in Patients With Distal Free‐End Implants. Conventional Versus CAD‐CAM Surgical Guides
Authors: Berta García‐Mira , Luigi Canullo , Miguel Peñarrocha‐Diago , Carlos Balaguer‐Martí José
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To compare the accuracy of CAD‐CAM and conventional guides in the static computer‐assisted implant surgery (sCAIS) placement of distal free‐end implants.

Material and Methods

A prospective, controlled, and blinded quasi‐experimental study was done involving 27 patients (76 implants) distributed into two groups according to the surgical guide manufacturing approach used: conventional (control group [CG]) or CAD‐CAM (test group [TG]). The implants were planned in the software and the surgical guides were manufactured. Fully guided implant placement was carried out and the deviations were measured along with secondary variables as potential confounding factors. Descriptive analyses were performed on mean, standard deviation (SD), and interquartile range (IQR). In the comparative/inferential analysis hypothesis, contrasts were made of the quantitative and qualitative variables and multiple linear models were generated to adjust for the different confounding variables recorded.

Results

Coronal horizontal deviation (CHD) was significantly greater in CG (1.52 mm) versus TG (1.04 mm) (p = 0.004). Apical horizontal deviation (AHD) in turn was 1.67 versus 1.46 mm, respectively; angular deviation was 2.87 versus 3.64; and vertical deviation was −0.1 versus −0.05 mm, with no significant differences between the groups (p > 0.05). A greater sleeve height, positioning in premolars versus molars, and the use of shorter implants, were associated with greater accuracy in relation to CHD and/or AHD (p < 0.05). The implant success rate at 1 year was 92.1%, 90.7% in TG, and 100% in CG, being statistically significant (p = 0.026) at the implant level, but not significant at the patient level.

Conclusions

The CAD‐CAM surgical guides proved to be more accurate than the conventional guides in the sCAIS placement of distal free‐end implants, with statistically significant differences being observed in terms of CHD. All implant failures occurred in TG (6 implants/3 patients).

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06404385
Novel Insights Into the Causal Effects and Shared Genetics Between Body Fat and Parkinson Disease
Authors: Zhao Qian , Liu Dongming , Baranova Ancha , Cao Hongbao , Zhang Fuquan
Published: November 2024

Aims

Existing observational studies examining the effect of body fat on the risk of Parkinson disease (PD) have yielded inconsistent results. We aimed to investigate this causal relationship at the genetic level.

Methods

We employed two‐sample Mendelian randomization (TSMR) to investigate the causal effects of body fat on PD, with multiple sex‐specific body fat measures being involved. We performed Bayesian colocalization analysis and cross‐trait meta‐analysis to reveal pleiotropic genomic loci shared between body mass index (BMI) and PD. Finally, we used the MAGMA tool to perform tissue enrichment analysis of the genome‐wide association study hits of BMI.

Results

TSMR analysis suggests that except waist circumference, higher measures of body fatness are associated with a decreased risk of PD, including BMI (OR: 0.83), body fat percentage (OR: 0.69), body fat mass (OR: 0.77), and hip circumference (OR: 0.83). The observed effects were slightly more pronounced in females than males. Colocalization analysis highlighted two colocalized regions (chromosome 3p25.3 and chromosome 17p12) shared by BMI and PD and pointed to some genes as possible players, including SRGAP3, MTMR14, and ADORA2B. Cross‐trait meta‐analysis successfully identified 10 novel genomic loci, involving genes of TOX3 and MAP4K4. Tissue enrichment analysis showed that BMI‐associated genetic variants were enriched in multiple brain tissues.

Conclusions

We found that nonabdominal body fatness exerts a robust protective effect against PD. Our colocalization analysis and cross‐trait meta‐analysis identified pleiotropic genetic variation shared between BMI and PD, providing new clues for understanding the association between body fat and PD.
Modified Hank's Balanced Salt Solution as a Storage Medium for Avulsed Teeth: In Vitro Assessment of Periodontal Fibroblast Viability
Authors: Lee Zhi Jin , Ng Sook Luan , Soo Eason , Abdullah Dalia , Yazid Farinawati , Abdul Rahman Mariati , Teh Lay Ann
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim

The optimal storage medium for an avulsed tooth should preserve the viability of periodontal fibroblasts (PDLF) to the highest degree, facilitating the re‐attachment of periodontal fibers and improving the prognosis of replantation. This study compared the effect of the PDLF viability in Hank's balanced salt solution (HBSS), supplemented culture medium, that is, Dulbecco's Modified Eagle Medium (DMEM), and four modified HBSS mixtures.

Material and Methods

Periodontal tissues were obtained from extracted human teeth and processed for PDLF culture. The cells were then exposed to six experimental media: (i) HBSS, (ii) HBSS and ascorbic acid (HBSS + Vit C), (iii) HBSS and platelet‐derived growth factor (HBSS + PDGF), (iv) a mixture of HBSS, PDGF, and Vit C (HBSS + PDGF + Vit C), (v) HBSS and platelet lysate (HBSS + PL), and (vi) DMEM for 3, 6, 12, and 24 h. A MTT assay was performed to determine the cell viability.

Results

Vitamin C‐containing media maintained PDLF viability significantly better than HBSS + PDGF and HBSS + PL at 3, 6, 12, and 24 h (p < 0.05). The percentages of viable PDLF at 3, 6, 12, and 24 h were significantly higher than 0 h for HBSS + Vit C, HBSS + PDGF + Vit C, HBSS + PL, and DMEM (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

All experimental media were able to maintain PDLF viability (DMEM>HBSS+Vit C; HBSS+PDGF+Vit C>HBSS+PL>HBSS+PDGF; HBSS). Although DMEM had the highest cell proliferative effect, it is impractical to be used as a transport medium due to its cost, storage, and availability. The supplementation of Vit C yielded significant cell proliferative effects; hence, HBSS + Vit C can be a better alternative as a storage medium than HBSS.
Management of Complications in Dental Traumatology
Authors: de Gregorio Cesar , Tewari Nitesh
Published: November 2024

Management of traumatic dental injuries is often challenging due to the complexity in diagnosis, concomitant injuries, and the interdisciplinary treatment planning. As a result, the clinicians are often confused and not confident over important treatment decisions. The guidelines of International Association of Dental Traumatology have improved the standard of dental trauma care globally and provide a roadmap for predictable prognosis. However, there are unique situations that require additional investigations such as the Cone Beam Computed Tomography and customized treatment and follow up protocol. An essential requisite for prevention of adverse late complications of dental injuries is clear understanding of their etiopathogenesis and the changes that occur after an injury. Additionally, it is prudent to understand the basic physiology behind the healing that is expected after a treatment protocol. This review presents the science behind the development of late complications of dental injuries and their management protocols in a simplified and clinical manner. An attempt has been made to highlight the clinical paradigms and decisions that reduce the chances of failures in traumatized teeth.
Performance of Artificial Intelligence Chatbots in Responding to Patient Queries Related to Traumatic Dental Injuries: A Comparative Study
Authors: Guven Yeliz , Ozdemir Omer Tarik , Kavan Melis Yazir
Published: November 2024

Background/Aim

Artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots have become increasingly prevalent in recent years as potential sources of online healthcare information for patients when making medical/dental decisions. This study assessed the readability, quality, and accuracy of responses provided by three AI chatbots to questions related to traumatic dental injuries (TDIs), either retrieved from popular question‐answer sites or manually created based on the hypothetical case scenarios.

Materials and Methods

A total of 59 traumatic injury queries were directed at ChatGPT 3.5, ChatGPT 4.0, and Google Gemini. Readability was evaluated using the Flesch Reading Ease (FRE) and Flesch–Kincaid Grade Level (FKGL) scores. To assess response quality and accuracy, the DISCERN tool, Global Quality Score (GQS), and misinformation scores were used. The understandability and actionability of the responses were analyzed using the Patient Education Materials Assessment Tool for Printed Materials (PEMAT‐P) tool. Statistical analysis included Kruskal–Wallis with Dunn's post hoc test for non‐normal variables, and one‐way ANOVA with Tukey's post hoc test for normal variables (p < 0.05).

Results

The mean FKGL and FRE scores for ChatGPT 3.5, ChatGPT 4.0, and Google Gemini were 11.2 and 49.25, 11.8 and 46.42, and 10.1 and 51.91, respectively, indicating that the responses were difficult to read and required a college‐level reading ability. ChatGPT 3.5 had the lowest DISCERN and PEMAT‐P understandability scores among the chatbots (p < 0.001). ChatGPT 4.0 and Google Gemini were rated higher for quality (GQS score of 5) compared to ChatGPT 3.5 (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

In this study, ChatGPT 3.5, although widely used, provided some misleading and inaccurate responses to questions about TDIs. In contrast, ChatGPT 4.0 and Google Gemini generated more accurate and comprehensive answers, making them more reliable as auxiliary information sources. However, for complex issues like TDIs, no chatbot can replace a dentist for diagnosis, treatment, and follow‐up care.
Effectiveness of sodium channel blockers in treating neonatal seizures due to arterial ischemic stroke
Authors: Pegoraro Veronica , Viellevoye Renaud , Malfilatre Geneviève , Dilena Robertino , Proietti Jacopo , Mauro Isabella , Zardini Cecilia , Dzietko Mark , Lacan Laure , Desnous Beatrice , Cordelli Duccio Maria , Campi Francesca , Da Silva Monica Reis , Fumagalli Monica , Nguyen The Tich Sylvie , Felderhoff‐Müser Ursula , Ventura Giulia , Sartori Stefano , Benders Manon , Pittini Carla , Cavicchiolo Maria Elena , Milh Mathieu , Cantalupo Gaetano , van Maanen Aline , Tataranno Maria Luisa , Cilio Maria Roberta
Published: November 2024

Objective

Few studies have evaluated the efficacy of antiseizure medications (ASMs) according to the etiology of neonatal acute provoked seizures. We aimed to investigate the response to ASMs in term/near term neonates with acute arterial ischemic stroke (AIS), as well as the type of seizure at presentation and the monitoring approach.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated neonates from 15 European level IV neonatal intensive care units who presented with seizures due to AIS and were monitored by continuous electroencephalography (cEEG) and/or amplitude‐integrated EEG (aEEG) in whom actual recordings, timing, doses, and response to ASMs were available for review.

Results

One hundred seven neonates were referred, and 88 were included. Of those, 56 met the criteria for evaluating the treatment response. The mean time to treatment was 7.9 h (SD = 16.4), and the most frequently administered first‐line ASM was phenobarbital (PB; 74/88, 84.1%). Seizures were controlled within 24 h from onset of symptoms in 64.3% (36/56) of neonates. Phenytoin (PHT) was effective in almost all neonates in whom it was trialed (24/25, 96.0%), whereas PB was effective in only 22.0% of patients (11/50). Infants treated with PB or PHT as first‐line treatment (53/56, 94.6%) showed a higher response rate with PHT (6/6, 100.0%) than with PB (11/47, 23.4%). Monitoring approach and seizure types were evaluated in 88 infants. Forty‐six of 88 (52.3%) were monitored with cEEG and 47.7% (42/88) with aEEG, with or without intermittent cEEG. The mean monitoring duration was 65.8 h (SD = 39.21). In 83 of 88 (94.3%) infants, the type of seizure suspected clinically prior to monitoring was confirmed afterward. Unilateral focal clonic seizures were seen in 71 of 88 infants (80.7%), whereas 11 of 88 (12.5%) presented with ictal apneas.

Significance

Our findings provide evidence in a large, homogenous cohort that PHT is more effective than PB in treating neonatal acute symptomatic seizures due to AIS.
Regulation of the HMGA2‐SNAI2/CXCR4 axis in atherosclerosis and retinal neovascularization: new therapeutic insights
Authors: Li Jianan , Liu Zhuxi , Yu Chunyong , Song Weilong , Zhang Xiaobin , Liang Guobiao
Published: November 2024

Atherosclerosis (AS) is a vascular disease associated with endothelial damage, plaque formation, and retinal neovascularization (RNV), leading to visual impairment. Research indicates that vascular endothelial dysfunction, lipid deposition, and inflammatory responses contribute to the formation of plaques and atherosclerotic lesions. Among the common complications, studies have shown that RNV and the molecular mechanisms of AS hold significant clinical importance. In this study, we identified the overexpression of the gene heat shock protein 90 (HSP90) through transcriptome sequencing. Subsequent protein expression analysis and inhibition experiments in corresponding animal models confirmed the crucial role of HSP90 in the modulation of this disease. Research findings revealed an increase in the expression of HSP90, HMGA2, Snail family transcriptional repressor 2 gene (SNAI2), CXC chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4), and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in atherosclerotic mouse tissues. Inhibition of HSP90 expression reduced vascular neovascularization and downregulated the expression of HMGA2 and VEGF. Given that HSP90 can promote HMGA2 expression, which, in turn, facilitates angiogenesis, we conducted lentiviral infection experiments on primary retinal endothelial cells obtained from atherosclerotic mice, confirming the regulatory role of HSP90 in modulating HMGA2 expression through the SNAI2/CXCR4 signaling pathway and its involvement in retinal endothelial neovascularization. In conclusion, our study highlights the significant regulatory role of HSP90 in AS‐induced RNV, providing a new target for disease treatment. Furthermore, this research extensively explores the mechanism of HSP90 in regulating RNV and associated signaling pathways, offering novel insights and laying a solid foundation for future studies in this disease domain.
Paradigms of convergent evolution in enzymes
Authors: Riziotis Ioannis G. , Kafas Jenny C. , Ong Gabriel , Borkakoti Neera , Ribeiro António J. M. , Thornton Janet M.
Published: November 2024

There are many occurrences of enzymes catalysing the same reaction but having significantly different structures. Leveraging the comprehensive information on enzymes stored in the Mechanism and Catalytic Site Atlas (M‐CSA), we present a collection of 34 cases for which there is sufficient evidence of functional convergence without an evolutionary link. For each case, we compare enzymes which have identical Enzyme Commission numbers (i.e. catalyse the same reaction), but different identifiers in the CATH data resource (i.e. different folds). We focus on similarities between their sequences, structures, active site geometries, cofactors and catalytic mechanisms. These features are then assessed to evaluate whether all the evidence for these structurally diverse proteins supports their independent evolution to catalyse the same chemical reaction. Our approach combines published literature information with knowledge‐based computational resources from, amongst others, M‐CSA, PDBe and PDBsum, supported by tailor‐made software to explore active site structures and assess similarities in mechanism. We find that there are multiple types of convergent functional evolution observed to date, and it is necessary to investigate sequence, structure, active site geometry and enzyme mechanisms to describe such convergence accurately.
Application of an Instability‐Based Fracture Model for Prediction of Crack Initiation in Modified 9Cr–1Mo Steel
Authors: Nikhil R. , Krishnan S. A. , Keralavarma S. M. , Moitra A. , Vasudevan M.
Published: November 2024

Ductile fracture of modified 9Cr–1Mo steel was investigated using smooth and notched bar tension tests. Round and flat notched specimens with varying notch acuity ratio were used to investigate the influence of stress state on the fracture strain. Simulations of the experiments were performed using the extended finite element method, together with an instability‐based crack initiation criterion based on the micromechanics of void coalescence. The parameters in the plasticity model were determined using smooth bar tension tests, whereas the void nucleation parameters were calibrated from experiments on a shallow‐notched specimen. Subsequently, the load–deflection responses and strain to crack initiation have been predicted for round and flat notched specimens with various notch acuities, and central notched specimens with notches oriented at various angles to the loading axis. Using a single set of parameters, the model was able to quantitatively predict fracture in different specimen geometries encompassing a range of stress states.
Ecological Niche Interaction Between Co‐Existing Antarctic Krill (Euphausia superba) and the Pelagic Tunicate (Salpa thompsoni) in the Northern Antarctic Peninsula
Authors: Chen Zhuang , Zhu Guoping
Published: November 2024

Antarctic krill (Euphausia superba; krill) and the pelagic tunicate (Salpa thompsoni; salps) are crucial to the Southern Ocean ecosystem, and krill supports the largest fishery in the Southern Ocean in term of catch. Given recent climatic changes in the northern Antarctic Peninsula (NAP), the distribution of krill and salps are shifting poleward. Unlike krill, salps thrive in warmer water temperatures and can form large blooms under favorable conditions, potentially outcompeting krill for resources. However, krill are ecologically more important, serving as a primary food source for higher trophic levels. The interspecific interactions, including hotspots and ecological niches, of krill and salps in the NAP were therefore investigated using historical datasets and species distribution models. We found that both spatial separation and overlap occurred between krill and salps hotspots, with the primary overlap occurring around Elephant Island. Furthermore, there was a significant overlap in their ecological niches, suggesting that they may have similar ecological requirements. This study emphasized the importance of krill and salps interactions in the Southern Ocean ecosystem. The krill habitat and therefore food web of the Southern Ocean could be influenced significantly if salps continue to shift poleward in the future. The information provided in this study aids in the conservation and management of the Southern Ocean ecosystem.
The Effects of Plant–Microbe–Environment Interactions on Mineral Weathering Patterns in a Granular Basalt
Authors: Milici Valerie R. , Abiven Samuel , Bauser Hannes H. , Bishop Lily G. , Bland Rebecca G. W. , Chorover Jon , Dontsova Katerina M. , Dyer Kielah , Friedman Linus , Rusek‐Peterson Matthew J. , Saleska Scott , Dlugosch Katrina M.
Published: November 2024

The importance of biota to soil formation and landscape development is widely recognized. As biotic complexity increases during early succession via colonization by soil microbes followed by vascular plants, effects of biota on mineral weathering and soil formation become more complex. Knowledge of the interactions among groups of organisms and environmental conditions will enable us to better understand landscape evolution. Here, we used experimental columns of unweathered granular basalt to investigate how early successional soil microbes, vascular plants (alfalfa; Medicago sativa), and soil moisture interact to affect both plant performance and mineral weathering. We found that the presence of soil microbes reduced plant growth rates, total biomass, and survival, which suggests that plants and microbes were competing for nutrients in this environment. However, we also found considerable genotype‐specific variation in plant–microbial interactions, which underscores the importance of within‐species genetic variation on biotic interactions. We also found that the presence of vascular plants reduced variability in pH and electrical conductivity, suggesting that plants may homogenize weathering reactions across the soil column. We also show that there is heterogeneity in the abiotic conditions in which microbes, plants, or their combination have the strongest effect on weathering, and that many of these relationships are sensitive to soil moisture. Our findings highlight the importance of interdependent effects of environmental and biotic factors on weathering during initial landscape formation.
Material Legacies on Coral Reefs: Rubble Length and Bed Thickness Are Key Drivers of Rubble Bed Recovery
Authors: Kenyon Tania M. , Eigeland Karen , Wolfe Kennedy , Paewai‐Huggins Roima , Rowell Devin , Dodgen Tanya , Mumby Peter J.
Published: November 2024

Disturbances on coral reefs—which are increasing in intensity and frequency—generate material legacies. These are commonly in the form of rubble beds, which depend on rubble stability and/or binding to facilitate coral recruitment and recovery. Yet, our understanding of rubble stability and binding dynamics across environmental gradients is limited. Characterising and categorising rubble material legacies in context of their likely recovery trajectory is imperative to the effective deployment of active intervention strategies used to restore degraded reefs, such as rubble stabilisation, coral outplanting and larval seeding techniques. We quantified rubble characteristics across environmental gradients on the Great Barrier Reef. The likelihood of rubble stability and binding increased with rubble length and rubble bed thickness, and rubble length was a good predictor of bed thickness and rubble branchiness. Thin rubble bed profiles (< ~10 cm depth), those with small, unbranched rubble pieces (< ~10 cm length), and beds at the base of sloped rubble screes, had lower stability and binding likelihoods. These kinds of beds are expected to persist with low recovery prospects, and could be good candidates for rubble stabilisation interventions. Thicker rubble beds with larger, branched rubble pieces tended to exhibit higher stability and binding likelihoods. However, these beds had nuanced effects on coral cover, and interventions may still be necessary where competition is high, for example from macroalgae. A rapid assessment of rubble length—while also considering shelf location, geomorphic zone, slope angle and underlying substrate—can indicate the potential direction of a rubble bed's recovery trajectory. Our findings have been summarised into a rapid rubble bed assessment tool available in the Supporting Information, that can be incorporated into current reef monitoring to optimize prioritisation of intervention strategies at disturbed sites.
The Impact of Digital Technologies on the Transnational Aging Experience of Older Hong Kongers
Authors: Ngan Lucille Lok Sun
Published: November 2024

Despite significant changes brought about by international migration and global population aging, research on older adults has been primarily focused on proximate care and support networks, overlooking the opportunities available to those affected by migration. Filling these gaps, this article draws on in‐depth interviews with 47 older parents (aged 60+) from Hong Kong who are living in transnational family and social contexts to examine how the utilization of digital technologies impacts their daily lives, particularly in relation to transnational aging. Contrary to the conventional assumption that older adults tend to avoid engaging with new technologies, the participants actively embraced digital technologies. This study shows that first, digital technologies can facilitate practical care for older family members across distances, and challenging care for older adults must necessarily be provided in‐person. Second, connecting not only with geographically separated families but also with friends is central to the daily lives of older adults from migrant background, and digital technologies enable such social connections. Third, beyond the role that digital technologies play in fostering interpersonal connections among older adults—a point that is emphasized in the transnational family literature—digitalization also contributes significantly to personal life satisfaction for such people. This study contends that obtaining a comprehensive analysis of aging necessitates a thorough understanding of the influence of digitalization, extending beyond the limits of localized contexts.
Queering Accounting Spaces: Lived, Embodied, and Violent Experiences of a Gay and Black Accounting Brazilian Lecturer
Authors: dos Santos Tassiani Aparecida , Lopes Iago França , McGuigan Nicholas
Published: November 2024

The objective of this paper is to critically reflect upon queer experiences in the academic workplace, answering how the intersectionality of a gay and Black accounting lecturer encounters the presence of his body in a capitalist workplace. Drawing on collective biography methodology, we undertook a two‐and‐a‐half‐year engagement, working by critically and collectively (de)constructing a narrative of how an accounting lecturer has borne his gay and Black body into a violent academic workplace. The collective biography recites memory fragments from Miguel, focusing on the paradox of queer bodies (in)visibility and described how a capitalist workplace embedded in a heteronormative framework crafted Miguel's identity, oriented his body, and by making queer bodies vulnerable shaped Miguel's violent experience, which escalated from ethical forms of violence to symbolic and fear of experiencing physical violence, both from his academic peers and students of the university. Drawing on queer theory(ies), Judith Butler's and Lélia Gonzalez's works, this paper contributes to making a unique contribution to the literature on workplace, race, and sexuality from the subaltern and underrepresented Brazilian perspective. It also contributes to the diversity accounting literature, adding to the limited body of empirical work on diverse sexualities and their experiences in accounting academia. In doing so, we question the status quo, and the norms of accounting academia from Miguel's experiences, aiming to bring more diverse lived experience to be reflected upon, advancing the queer political project.
Helicobacter pylori Infection in Children: To Eradicate or Not to Eradicate?
Authors: Manfredi Marco , Ravikumara Madhur
Published: November 2024

Helicobacter pylori infection is usually acquired during childhood and represents one of the most common infections in humans. It is well known that H. pylori has belonged to humankind for hundreds of thousands of years and it accompanied the human migration from Africa. The adult international guidelines recommend treating all infected patients as H. pylori was classified among the first‐class human carcinogens by the WHO in 1994 and it is one of the main factors involved in the development of gastric cancer. Conversely, the pediatric international guidelines are more restrictive in recommending the eradication of the infection in children. Although many studies have shown evidence regarding the pathological role of H. pylori regardless of the age of the infected patients, many others have highlighted its protective/positive role in several extra‐gastric diseases in children. In this review, both points of view regarding the eradication in children are critically analyzed.
The Impact of Coopetition on Student Recruitment in Higher Education: A Study of French Business Schools' Admission Strategy
Authors: Guyottot Olivier , Couston Alexandra , Tran Sebastien
Published: November 2024

Student recruitment is essential for higher education institutions. There are various strategies to consider when organising student admissions and meeting recruitment objectives. Coopetition, which can be defined as cooperating with competitors, is one of them. Our qualitative study examines the elements at stake for French business schools that adopt a coopetitive admission strategy and the effect of coopetition on student recruitment. Our research indicates that coopetition has a positive influence on the number of applications received and leads to the standardisation of applicant profiles. Additionally, it reveals a significant disparity in recruitment performance between leading and non‐leading schools. By applying a coopetition lens to HE admission, our work underlines how positional competition, reputation, legitimacy and soft power logic can explain why some French business schools keep on favouring coopetition for their admission despite its contrasted impact. It demonstrates that coopetition can have a negative influence on student diversity when admission is based on a selective model that depends on traditional meritocratic equality of opportunities. Finally, our study shows that coopetitive admission strategies reinforce the dominance of leading institutions by increasing the number of applications, thus improving their selectivity and helping them preserve their leadership.
The Concept of Academic Quality
Authors: Culbertson Leon , Lawton Chris , Robinson Ian
Published: November 2024

The paper outlines the history of the different uses of ‘quality’ in higher education. Emphasis is given to the United Kingdom, but consideration is also given to a range of international contexts. Three different uses of ‘academic quality’ are identified (the state‐driven, sector‐derived, and the traditional academic uses) and their relationship to fundamentally different priorities, values, criteria, purposes and practices is established. The notion of a concept as it applies in the paper is then explained before four alternatives to the thought that there is more than one concept of academic quality are evaluated and ultimately rejected. It is argued that those different uses of ‘academic quality’ are not minor changes in emphasis, but fundamentally different uses of the words rooted in different concepts of academic quality with different implications for measurement and/or evaluation. The identification of those three concepts of academic quality is then put to use in critically analysing the current situation in relation to quality in higher education, involving discussion of the implications of the operation of different concepts of academic quality and reflection on how we might revise our approach to thinking about academic quality as a result.
ON THE IMPACT OF INFORMATION MANIPULATION IN DEMOCRATIC ELECTIONS
Authors: Grunewald Andreas , Klümper Andreas , Kräkel Matthias
Published: November 2024

This article studies information manipulation during a democratic election. In our model, candidates manipulate public signals about their welfare impact, and a fraction of the electorate naively ignores manipulation. We derive three main findings. First, information manipulation is detrimental to candidate selection and aggravates the dispersion of political attitudes. Second, both educating voters and creating institutions to eliminate false information may involve a trade‐off between improving candidate selection and aggravating the dispersion of political attitudes. Third, if and only if the share of naive voters is sufficiently large, information manipulation and the dispersion of political attitudes are mutually reinforcing.
Findings in Child Development in Children Who Grew Up During the COVID‐19 Pandemic in Two Countries
Authors: Quezada‐Ugalde Ana María , Benavides Alejandra Auza , Murata Chiharu , Villegas Silvia Salazar , García Hernández Alfonso Miguel
Published: November 2024

The COVID‐19 pandemic created an unprecedented situation for families worldwide, with its potential impact on child development remaining uncertain, particularly within Latin American communities. This study aimed to analyze child development in children from Costa Rica and Mexico who grew up during COVID‐19 pandemic. A cross‐sectional study was conducted using a convenience sample of 183 children; a historical control group of Costa Rican children (n = 171) was also included. Child development was assessed using the EDIN‐II in Costa Rica and the EDI in Mexico, along with a parental questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, chi‐square tests, and logistic regression analysis were performed, with a significance level of 0.05. Significant differences were found when comparing the risk of development delay, particularly in the overall score and the fine motor domain score. The probability of overall delay was associated with the child's sex, age, maternal education level and whether the primary caregiver role was shared by both parents or fulfilled by a single parent. In Costa Rica, the development of children assessed post‐pandemic was lower than that of children assessed pre‐pandemic. The probability of these delays was associated with growing up during the pandemic, child's sex, and families' Socioeconomic Development Index. These results contribute to understanding child development during the COVID‐19 context and provide a foundation for future research.
Assessing Salinity, Drought and High Temperature Stress in Maize (Zea mays L.) and Wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) Varieties: Theoretical Combination as Multifactorial Stress
Authors: Argentel‐Martínez Leandris , Peñuelas‐Rubio Ofelda , Pérez‐López Lorenzo , Aguilera Jorge González , Steiner Fábio , Zuffo Alan Mario , Ratke Rafael Felippe
Published: November 2024

Maize and wheat are two important cereal crops for the food security of the world population. However, constant climate change and the intensification of anthropic activities have intensified the emergence of stressful environmental in the various agricultural production systems around the world. Therefore, in this study we evaluate the chlorophyll content, photosynthesis, transpiration and grain yield of maize and wheat crops exposed to soil salinity, drought and high temperatures and determine the damage intensity of these stressing conditions and the theoretical multifactorial damage intensity. Field experiments were conducted during the 2022 and 2023 agricultural seasons in the Yaqui Valley, Sonora, Mexico. The treatments consisted of the cultivation of maize and wheat in three stressful production environments (soil salinity, drought and high temperatures) and a non‐stressful production environment (Control), with four repetitions. The tolerance and intensity index of abiotic stresses, as well as the intensity of theoretical multifactorial stress (salinity, drought and high temperatures), for morphological traits and grain yield, were calculated. The results reported that physiological traits and yield of maize and wheat are severely affected by drought stress conditions. High temperatures are the second abiotic stress factor that most limits physiological traits and grain yield of maize and wheat crops, being more harmful than soil salinity. The theoretical multifactorial stress has a greater negative impact on the yield of the elite maize and wheat varieties. The sum of a stressful environmental factor increases the intensity of multifactorial stress on grain yield of both cereal crops, especially for maize crop.
Local and Regional, Not Latitudinal, Variation in Microclimate and Bedrock Shapes Moss‐Associated Diatom Communities in Greenland
Authors: Goeyers Charlotte , Van de Vijver Bart , Kohler Tyler J. , Verleyen Elie , Tytgat Bjorn , Gradstein S. Robbert , Sabbe Koen
Published: November 2024

Aim

Greenland is among the most rapidly changing regions on Earth, with climate change having a profound impact on its terrestrial ecosystems. Here, moss‐associated diatoms hold great potential as sensitive biological indicators to monitor responses to climate change, but their diversity, community structure and biogeography remain virtually unexplored. Our study, thus, aims to (1) explore the diversity and community structure of moss‐associated diatoms in Greenland and (2) assess the environmental and spatial variables driving their geographic distribution, establishing a baseline for their use as bio‐indicators of climate change.

Location

Greenland, spanning a gradient from high to subarctic regions.

Taxon

Moss‐associated diatoms (Bacillariophyta).

Methods

LM and SEM analysis was conducted on 175 terrestrial moss samples collected from preserved herbarium material and fresh samples (1988–2021) from high, low and subarctic localities in Greenland. Biogeographical distributions, biodiversity patterns and community structure were examined in relation to environmental and spatial factors using Kruskal–Wallis, Spearman's Rank, ordination, SIMPROF and variation partitioning analyses.

Results

A total of 544 diatom taxa (66 genera) were identified, with nearly half potentially new to science. Community structure was predominantly influenced by moisture, pH, conductivity and temperature. Local variation in microclimate and bedrock, thus, explained more variation in the diatom communities than latitude‐related environmental gradients. Surprisingly, temperature had a negative impact on diatom richness, probably due to its adverse effect on moisture, highlighting the vulnerability of Arctic moss diatoms to global warming.

Main Conclusions

This study provides the first comprehensive analysis of Greenland's moss‐associated diatoms, highlighting their high diversity and sensitivity to environmental changes. Our findings underscore their potential as indicators for monitoring climate change in the Arctic, with moisture, pH, conductivity and temperature being critical factors influencing their communities, laying the groundwork for future research and monitoring efforts.