bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Oral decitabine/cedazuridine versus intravenous decitabine for acute myeloid leukaemia: A randomised, crossover, registration, pharmacokinetics study
Authors: Geissler Klaus , Koristek Zdenek , del Castillo Teresa Bernal , Novák Jan , Rodríguez‐Macías Gabriela , Metzelder Stephan K. , Illes Arpad , Mayer Jiří , Arnan Montserrat , Keating Mary‐Margaret , Krauter Jürgen , Lunghi Monia , Fracchiolla Nicola Stefano , Platzbecker Uwe , Santini Valeria , Sano Yuri , Oganesian Aram , Keer Harold , Lübbert Michael
Published: November 2024

This study compared decitabine exposure when administered IV (DEC‐IV) at a dose of 20 mg/m2 for 5‐days with orally administered decitabine with cedazuridine (DEC‐C), as well as the clinical efficacy and safety of DEC‐C in patients with acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) who were ineligible for intensive induction chemotherapy. In all, 89 patients were randomised 1:1 to DEC‐IV or oral DEC‐C (days 1–5 in a 28‐day treatment cycle), followed by 5 days of the other formulation in the next treatment cycle. All patients received oral DEC‐C for subsequent treatment cycles until treatment discontinuation. Equivalent systemic decitabine exposures were demonstrated (5‐day area under the curve ratio between the two decitabine formulations of 99.64 [90% confidence interval 91.23%, 108.80%]). Demethylation rates also were similar (≤1.1% difference). Median overall survival (OS), clinical response and safety profile with oral DEC‐C were consistent with those previously observed with DEC‐IV. Next‐generation sequencing was performed to identify molecular abnormalities that impact OS and TP53 mutations were associated with a poor outcome. These findings support the use of oral DEC‐C in patients with AML.
Highly Sensitive and Specific Panels of Plasma Exosomal microRNAs for Identification of Malignant Pulmonary Nodules
Authors: Tao Rui , Wang Dandan , Pei Wenjing , Liu Yanfei , Liu Pengcheng , Li Renming , Xu Jiegou , Ye Jing , Zhao Dahai
Published: November 2024

Objectives

With wide application of computed tomography (CT) in early lung cancer screening, solitary pulmonary nodules (SPNs) are frequently detected. Due to their high etiological diversity and potential for malignancy, rapid and accurate identification and malignant SPNs are crucial in the clinical management. In the present study, plasma exosomal microRNAs were identified and evaluated as sensitive and specific indicators for malignant SPNs.

Materials and Methods

Exosomal miRNAs isolated from the plasmas of pathologically confirmed patients with SPN (four malignant and four benign, designated as the screening set) were subjected for high throughput sequencing and eight candidate miRNAs were selected. The pre‐operation plasma levels of the candidate miRNAs in 77 patients with SPN (48 malignant and 29 benign, designated as the identification set) were detected by quantitative PCR, five miRNAs were identified as potential biomarkers for malignant SPNs, and the diagnostic values of the five miRNAs each alone or combined were then analyzed by AUROC analysis. The prediction values of the identified miRNAs were further evaluated in 95 patients with SPN (double blind, 74 malignant and 21 benign, designated as the validation set).

Results

High‐throughput sequencing identified 45 miRNAs with statistical differences between benign and malignant SPNs. Among the eight candidate miRNAs in the identification set, miR‐1‐3p alone had the best diagnostic value, with the sensitivities and specificities of 89.6% and 100% for malignant SPNs. Unexpectedly, when miR‐1‐3p was combined with miR‐99a‐5p, both the sensitivity and specificity reached 100% for malignant SPNs. miR‐1‐3p+miR‐125b‐5p and miR‐1‐3p+miR‐218‐5p were also good indicators of malignant SPNs with sensitivities of 95.8% and 97.9%, specificities of 100% and 96.6%. Further analysis of these microRNA combinations in the validation set indicated that the PPV were 91.4%, 97.4%, and 93.5% and the NPV were 100%, 100%, and 88.9% for miR‐1‐3p+miR‐99a‐5p, miR‐1‐3p+miR‐218‐5p, and miR‐1‐3p+miR‐125b‐5p, with the sensitivities were 100%, 100%, and 97.3% and the specificities were 66.7%, 90.5%, and 76.2% for miR‐1‐3p+miR‐99a‐5p, miR‐1‐3p+miR‐218‐5p, and miR‐1‐3p+miR‐125b‐5p, respectively.

Conclusions

Through high throughput sequencing, qPCR determination of plasma microRNAs and AUROC analysis, miR‐1‐3p combined with miR‐99a‐5p, miR‐125b‐5p, or miR‐218‐5p have been found to be sensitive and specific indicators of malignant SPNs in both the identification and validation sets. Our results indicate that the panels of plasma miRNAs can be used as diagnostic biomarkers for malignant SPNs.
Myoepithelial‐Rich Pleomorphic Adenoma With Novel PLAG1 Inversion on Chromosome 8, and LRP1B, PBRM1 and TCF3 Mutations
Authors: Gonzalez Maria F. , Pei Jianming , Rong Yuan , Seth Anjali
Published: November 2024

Pleomorphic adenoma (PA) is the most common salivary gland neoplasm worldwide (50%–70%). Most cases of PA are straightforward diagnoses. However, the diagnosis may be challenging due to the morphological diversity of PAs, which in many cases is caused by the predominance of one of the three components or the presence of metaplastic epithelium. We present the case of a 64‐year‐old male with a history of prostate cancer and right submandibular gland excision 16 years ago with an unknown previous diagnosis and recent regrowth of his mass in the surgical bed. The tumour showed a predominant spindle cell morphology, cytokeratin‐positivity, variable expression of myoepithelial markers in the cytology and surgical pathology specimens, and novel inversion of the chromosome 8, and LRP1B, PBRM1 and TCF3 mutations.
Women in the Labor Market and Experienced Political Institutions
Authors: Troiano Ugo antonio
Published: November 2024

In this paper, I first present a novel finding: women who have experienced democratic institutions during their impressionable years are more likely to participate in the labor market, while controlling for factors such as country, cohort, language and various other confounding factors. I then provide evidence suggesting that discriminatory attitudes may serve as a channel for this phenomenon. Other explanations receive less support from the data.
First report of Scaphoideus titanus (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) in Germany (Baden‐Württemberg)
Authors: Askani L. , Zimmermann O. , Zimmermann C. , Rinke F. , Jarausch B. , Hoffmann C. , Zikeli K. , Fuchs R.
Published: November 2024

In August 2024, adult individuals of Scaphoideus titanus were detected for the first time in Germany on yellow sticky traps in two different vineyards (Vitis vinifera) in Baden‐Württemberg. This leafhopper is the main vector of Grapevine flavescence dorée phytoplasma (FD). According to initial analyses, however, the flavescence dorée‐causing phytoplasma could not be detected in the trapped leafhoppers. An area of 80 hectares of non‐contiguous vineyards is declared as infested.
Climate Change Affects Multiple Coral Reef Fisheries Ecosystem Services
Authors: Martin Sarah M. , Robinson James P. W. , Lucas Juliette , Augustin Emilie , Govinden Rodney , Wilson Shaun K. , Graham Nicholas A. J.
Published: November 2024

Coral reef fisheries support livelihoods and provide an affordable source of essential dietary nutrients to coastal people. However, climate‐driven coral bleaching is dramatically altering reef habitats and changing reef fish composition, diversity, and productivity. We used data from fisheries independent surveys and artisanal trap landings to explore how reefs with different responses to coral bleaching differed in habitat configurations, fisheries catch rates, economic returns, and nutritional content. Coral‐associated fishes supported the highest catch rates, greatest species diversity, highest rates of economic returns for fishers, and a wide price range for consumers. Macroalgae‐associated fishes supported the greatest overall fisheries yields, which indicated higher fishery dependence on these habitats. Nutrient content was high in catches across all habitats, but concentrations varied by nutrient, which suggested that fishing across a range of reef habitats should provide the greatest variety of nutrients to coastal communities.
The Welfare System in the Face of War Refugees From Ukraine: The Experience of Social Workers in Poland
Authors: Necel Ryszard
Published: November 2024

This article explores the experiences of social workers in Poland assisting Ukrainian War refugees in the immediate aftermath of the Russian invasion in 2022. It adopts a ‘culture of disaster’ framework, positioning social workers as professionals responding to macro‐level crises and disasters. The research is based on a quantitative survey (computer‐assisted web interview [CAWI]) of social workers in municipalities with the highest refugee populations (N = 402). The article shows that the majority of social workers were primarily involved in an emergency response, focusing on meeting basic social needs. However, their involvement in social inclusion and advocacy was significantly less common. Social workers reported high levels of community support and valued working with local communities. The research highlights the challenges faced during the crisis, including professional overload, inadequate regulatory frameworks and the perception of local welfare centres as the only support structures for refugees.
Changed Reality, Changed Positions: The Case Study of Eritrean Women Refugees in Times of Global Pandemic
Authors: Arev Tamar
Published: November 2024

This article examines the emerging position of women refugees during a global crisis. On the basis of an empirical study of the Eritrean community in Tel Aviv, Israel, I analysed the ways in which gender identity is formulated and recreated following the social and economic restrictions of the Covid‐19 pandemic. In contrast to previous literature which has highlighted men's central position in forced migrant communities, I suggest viewing the global pandemic as an accelerator of women's presence in two circles of belonging: the family unit and the Eritrean community. I argue that structural changes imposed by the pandemic have established new gender roles and divisions of power, positioning women as a source of authority and a subject of choice. As a significant proportion of Eritrean men lost their income during the pandemic, they were forced to adopt a different role within the family unit. Eritrean women, on the other hand, managed to keep their jobs and became the family's sole provider. In addition to increasing their family's economic dependence on them, Eritrean women also became central figures in their community through the creation of new social networks designed to satisfy the emotional and economic needs of its members. This has enabled women refugees to reinforce their social mobility and become relatively autonomous.
PBAN regulates sex pheromone biosynthesis by Ca2+/CaN/ACC and Ca2+/PKC/HK2 signal pathways in Spodoptera litura
Authors: Zhang Yao , He Ruolan , She Zelong , Yin Xinming , Li Xiang , Yao Shuangyan , Du Mengfang , An Shiheng
Published: November 2024

Sex pheromones emitted by female moths play important roles in mate attraction. The molecular mechanism underlying pheromone biosynthesis activating neuropeptide (PBAN)‐regulated sex pheromone biosynthesis has been well elucidated in many moth species, although this mechanism is species‐dependent. Spodoptera litura, an important pest, has caused serious economic losses to agricultural production, yet the mechanism for its sex pheromone biosynthesis has not been fully identified. The present study investigates in detail mechanism underlying PBAN‐regulated sex pheromone biosynthesis in S. litura. The transcriptome sequencing of S. litura pheromone glands (PGs) was analysed to identify a serial of candidate genes potentially involved in sex pheromone biosynthesis. Further investigation revealed a bimodal pattern in both sex pheromone release and mating frequency. PBAN was found to regulate sex pheromone biosynthesis via its receptor by using Ca2+ as a secondary messenger, as demonstrated by RNA interference and the application of pharmacological inhibitors. Furthermore, PBAN/Ca2+ signalling activated calcineurin (CaN) and acetyl‐CoA carboxylase (ACC), which mediated sex pheromone biosynthesis in response to PBAN stimulation. Mostly importantly, hexokinase 2 (HK2) was confirmed to be activated by PBAN/PBANR /Ca2+/PKC signalling via phosphorylation at two specific sites (ser423 and ser434 sites of HK2). Overall, our findings shed light on the intricate processes involved in sex pheromone production in S. litura, in which PBAN regulates sex pheromone biosynthesis through PBAN/PBANR/Ca2+/CaN/ACC and PBAN/PBANR/Ca2+/PKC/HK2 signalling pathways. These insights significantly contribute to our comprehension of the specific mechanisms underlying sex pheromone biosynthesis in this moth species.
Comparative Analysis of Phytochemicals and Gene Expression in Soybean (Glycine max) Under Acute Moderated and Severe Elevated Ozone: Unravelling the Role of Antioxidant Defence
Authors: Wang Cong , Guo Long , Li Jinmeng , Gao Shanshan , Kong Juanjuan , Xu Sheng , Ruan Yanan
Published: November 2024

The increasing concentrations of ground‐level ozone (O3) resulting from industrialisation and anthropogenic activities present a substantial environmental threat to agricultural productivity, particularly affecting O3‐sensitive crops such as soybeans. The effects of acute O3 exposure on soybean yield attributes and seed quality and whether soybean showed different detoxification mechanisms in response to moderate and severe O3 stress are not extensively explored. In this study, soybean seedlings were exposed to moderate (80 nmol mol−1) and acute severe (200 nmol mol−1) O3 stress, and then growth parameters, yield attributes, reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, enzymatic and non‐enzymatic antioxidant properties and associated gene expression in the leaves were assessed. The results revealed that moderate O3 exposure enhanced growth parameters but reduced the 100‐grain weight, while acute severe exposure sharply depressed growth parameters, yield attributes and the 100‐grain weight. Moderate O3 fumigation significantly increased hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) levels and catalase (CAT) activity from 4 to 32 h. Acute severe O3 stress induced the overproduction of superoxide anions (O2.−) and H2O2 during nearly the whole experiment period, but only enhanced superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity at 32 h, and showed no stimulatory effects on CAT activity. Additionally, the relative expression levels of the SOD and CAT gene family in soybean leaves exposed to elevated O3 were upregulated, peaking at 8 h. Moderate O3 treatment enhanced reduced glutathione (GSH) and ascorbate (AsA) levels and increased the activities of AsA–GSH cycle‐related enzymes. In contrast, acute severe O3 exposure inhibited GSH and AsA contents and markedly suppressed AsA–GSH cycle‐related enzymes, particularly from 8 to 32 h. Redundancy analysis indicated that CAT and AsA play crucial roles in scavenging O3‐induced ROS under moderate stress, while ascorbate peroxidase (APX) and GSH were more effective under acute severe stress conditions. These findings provide insights into the differential impacts of acute O3 stress on soybeans, emphasising the importance of considering both crop yield and grain quality in assessing O3 risks to crops.
Climate and Land‐Use Change Leading to Niche Expansion and Shifts in Birds
Authors: Avidad Pablo M. , Clavero Miguel , Viana Duarte S.
Published: November 2024

Aim

The realised niches of species change following environmental and distributional shifts. Still, the magnitude of niche change and its consequences are determined by how different species cope with environmental changes, which ultimately depends on their ecology and traits. We assessed how environmental and distributional shifts have led to changes in the realised breeding niches of 121 species of North American birds over the last four decades and how the magnitude of niche change was associated with species traits.

Location

North America.

Taxon

Birds.

Methods

We calculated geographic and niche overlap, breadth and shift, and estimated the temporal trends of the different niche metrics from 1980 to 2018 for each species. The slopes of these temporal trends were then modelled as a function of species traits using Bayesian models that accounted for phylogenetic relatedness and the uncertainty of the temporal slopes.

Results

We found that the niche of 57% of the bird species diverged through time as they experienced widespread environmental change, including changes in both niche breadth and position. Most niches expanded due to increasing environmental variability within their ranges, but habitat specialists showed a tendency for niche contraction. Niche shifts were larger in species that live in habitats with denser vegetation cover. However, species showing larger average geographical shifts were able to track their reference niche more effectively.

Main Conclusions

Bird species were in general increasingly exposed to higher environmental variation that led to changes in their realised niches over a relatively short time span (four decades), while the niches of many others remained stable. The differences in the magnitude of niche change were to some extent related to species traits, providing clues about how different species respond to widespread environmental change in both geographical and niche space.
Revealing How Human Activity and Native Plants Outshine Climate in Shaping New Invasive Alien Plant Elevational Patterns in Nature Reserves
Authors: Zhao Caiyun , Li Bai
Published: November 2024

Aim

We aim to investigate whether invasive alien plants introduced at different times exhibit variations in elevational distribution patterns and to explore the correlations of these patterns with climate, native plants and human activity.

Location

Guangxi, China.

Methods

We recorded plant richness and cover across elevational gradients at 25–34 sites within each reserve, utilising 84–134 roadside plots per site. Using generalised linear mixed model (GLMM), we assessed the impacts of climate, native plants and human activity on the distributions of all, old and new invasive alien plants across the region and within the nature reserves.

Results

At regional scales, the cover of all, new and old invasive alien plants decreased with increasing elevation, while only the richness of old invasive alien plants exhibited a similar pattern. Contrasting patterns were observed in Dayao Mountain, where the cover of old invasive alien plants decreased while the cover of new invasive alien plants increased. The richness patterns of all and new invasive alien plants were opposite between Dayao Mountain and Yachang Orchid. Moreover, native plant richness was negatively correlated with the richness of invasive alien plants, while interference intensity positively affected new invasive alien plants at both regional and reserve scales. At the regional scale, native plant richness accounted for 78.27%, 91.94% and 60.9% of all, old and new invasive alien plants respectively. Interference intensity accounted for 33.85% of the variation in new invasive alien plants. Annual mean temperature positively influenced the cover of all and old invasive alien plants at both regional and reserve scales, explaining 36.91% and 74.28% of their regional variation. Additionally, interference intensity and distance to human settlements positively impacted the cover of new invasive alien plants, contributing to 50.95% and 31.92% of their variation at regional scales.

Main Conclusion

The distinct distribution patterns of old and new invasive alien plants highlight the significance of residence time in understanding their dynamics. Climate factors constrain the cover distribution of all and old invasive alien plants, whereas interference intensity and distance to settlements determine the distribution of new invasive alien plants. Notably, native plants play a vital role in preventing the establishment and spread of invasive alien plants within nature reserves, and their effectiveness increases with longer residence times. Our findings highlight the critical importance of minimising human interference and conserving native species for the effective management of invasive alien plants in nature reserves.
Association Between Nontraditional Lipid Profiles and the Risk of Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus in Chinese Adults With Hypertension: Findings From the China Hypertension Registry Study
Authors: Tao Yu , Wang Tao , Zhou Wei , Zhu Lingjuan , Yu Chao , Li Juxiang , Bao Huihui , Cheng Xiaoshu
Published: November 2024

The relationship between nontraditional lipid profiles and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) remains ambiguous within the hypertension population. The objective of this study is to examine the association between nontraditional lipid profiles and T2DM in Chinese adults with hypertension. The current investigation encompassed 13 728 participants with hypertension from the China Hypertension Registry Study. Logistic regression analysis and smooth curve fitting were employed to evaluate the association between nontraditional lipid profiles and T2DM. The prevalence of T2DM was found to be 17.8%. In the fully adjusted model, atherogenic index of plasma (AIP) exhibited the highest odds ratios (ORs) for T2DM (OR: 2.71, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.26–3.26). Conversely, the fully adjusted ORs (95% CI) for total cholesterol (TC)/high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL‐C), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C)/HDL‐C, and non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (Non‐HDL‐C) were 1.33 (1.25–1.41), 1.40 (1.29–1.51), and 1.41 (1.34–1.49), respectively. Additionally, the study demonstrated that AIP had a superior ability to identify T2DM. Subgroup analyses indicated that the relationship between AIP and Non‐HDL‐C with T2DM was more significant in the lighter weight population. In addition, the association of TC/HDL‐C with LDL‐C/HDL‐C with T2DM was stronger in the lower homocysteine level population. Among the southern Chinese population with hypertension, all nontraditional lipid indices positively correlated with the risk of T2DM. Among these lipid indices, AIP exhibited superior discriminatory power in identifying T2DM compared to TC/HDL‐C, LDL‐C/HDL‐C.

Trial Registration: ChiCTR1800017274
Higher Long‐Term Visit‐to‐Visit Blood Pressure Variability Is Associated With Severe Cerebral Small Vessel Disease in the General Population
Authors: Zhao Xinyu , Hui Ying , Li Jing , Shi Xian‐Quan , Chen Shuohua , Lv Han , Wu Shouling , Wang Zhenchang
Published: November 2024

Long‐term visit‐to‐visit blood pressure (BP) variability is linked to various diseases, but its impact on cerebral small vessel disease (cSVD) burden, and its features remains uncertain. We analyzed 1284 participants from the Kailuan cohort (2006–2022). Visit‐to‐visit systolic BP (SBP), diastolic BP (DBP), and pulse pressure (PP) variability were categorized into tertiles (low, middle, high). Magnetic resonance imaging identified white matter hyperintensities (WMH), lacunae of presumed vascular origin (LA), cerebral microbleeds (CMBs), and visible perivascular spaces (PVS). Total cSVD burden was classified as none (0), mild (1), moderate (2), or severe (3–4) based on the presence of these features. Logistic regression estimated odds ratios (ORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). High SBP variability was associated with moderate cSVD burden (OR = 1.89, 95% CI: 1.09–3.29) and PVS (OR = 1.62, 95% CI: 1.10–2.39). High DBP variability was associated with LA (OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.06–2.84). High PP variability showed a significant risk for severe cSVD burden (OR = 2.49, 95% CI: 1.34–4.63). These associations were modified by age and hypertension status. Among young adults (age < 60 years), high PP variability was associated with severe cSVD burden (OR = 3.33, 95% CI: 1.31–8.44), LA (OR = 3.02, 95% CI: 1.31–6.93), and PVS (OR = 1.86, 95% CI: 1.20–2.88). The risk effects of SBP and PP variability on cSVD burden were significant only in participants with hypertension. High long‐term visit‐to‐visit BP variability (BPV), particularly in combination with hypertension, is a significant risk factor for total cSVD. Special attention should be given to PP variability in younger adults.
Reflectance confocal microscopy for margin mapping of melanoma of the lentigo maligna type: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Mesquita Yasmin , Marques Isabela R. , Pera Calvi Izabela , Cruz Sara A. , Godoi Amanda , Lapenda Izadora L. , de Moraes‐Souza Rafaela , Relvas Jessica H. , Vilbert Maysa , Nehal Kishwer S. , Navarrete‐Dechent Cristian
Published: November 2024

Background

Melanoma of the lentigo maligna (LM) type and its invasive counterpart, lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM), occur in chronically sun‐damaged skin and tend to have subclinical extension that makes presurgical margin mapping challenging. Reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) is a non‐invasive imaging modality that enables in vivo visualization of the skin at the cellular level, allowing for adequate estimation of LM/LMM margins.

Objectives

We aimed to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis evaluating RCM's performance compared with histopathology in margin mapping of LM/LMM.

Methods

We searched MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane, and Clinicaltrials.gov for studies published until July 2023, assessing RCM diagnostic accuracy for presurgical LM/LMM margin delineation. Negative predictive value (NPV; number of true negatives confirmed by histopathology out of all negatives found on RCM) was our primary outcome. Secondary outcomes were proportion of agreement between RCM and histopathology, mean number of stages to clear lesion, sensitivity, and specificity.

Results

Of the 955 search results, nine studies (329 participants) were included. Pooled NPV for RCM detection of LM/LMM clear margins was 89.15% (95% CI 80.95–95.46; I2 = 80%). The RCM and histopathology agreement rate was 92.09% (95% CI 84.71–96.07; I2 = 57%). Mean number of stages needed to clear the lesion using RCM was 1.16 (95% CI 1.08–1.23; I2 = 0). Compared with histopathology, RCM sensitivity and specificity were 91.4% (95% CI 82.2–96.1; I2 = 0%) and 95.7% (95% CI 90.7–98; I2 = 68%), respectively.

Conclusions

These results support that RCM has a high concordance rate with the gold standard histopathology for presurgical LM/LMM margin mapping, constituting a valuable tool for its management.
The Punch Graft Technique: A Simplified Protocol for Three‐Dimensional Peri‐Implant Soft and/or Hard Tissue Augmentation in a Single Step
Authors: Pelekanos Stavros , Ioannis Vergoullis , Stankov Ventseslav , De Greef Alexander , Euwe Egon
Published: November 2024

Objective

This article describes a clinical protocol utilizing soft tissue augmentation alone or in combination with guided bone regeneration (GBR), introducing simultaneous application of the one abutment one time concept for three‐dimensional reconstruction of the deficient ridge.

Clinical Considerations

Soft and hard tissue quality and dimensions are fundamental elements for long lasting results in implant dentistry. Different techniques have been described for soft and hard tissue augmentation at time of implant placement presenting favorable results. However, multiple abutment disconnections during the prosthetic phase of treatment can compromise the results achieved during surgery. The purpose of this article is to present a surgical protocol that allows three‐dimensional ridge reconstruction involving soft tissue augmentation alone, or in combination with hard tissue augmentation in one single step with the use of an one‐time intermediate abutment as an anchorage device for the regenerative materials. Two clinical cases utilizing the proposed protocol are also presented, demonstrating favorable results.

Conclusions

The application of the proposed protocol simplifies the surgical phase of treatment, protects the achieved result and enables a favorable outcome in decreased time.

Clinical Significance

Utilising an intermediate abutment as an anchorage device at time of surgery can be proven an easy to apply and biologically favorable alternative way to other methods of soft tissue graft stabilization proposed in the past.
Climate change worries and fertility intentions: Insights from three EU countries
Authors: Bastianelli Elena
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study investigates the relationship between climate change concern and fertility intentions in Finland, Estonia, and Sweden. It explores whether climate worries are associated with a greater inclination to remain childfree or a reduction in the number of intended children, and whether the association varies across the three countries.

Background

Climate change concern is said to influence fertility intentions either by prompting individuals to reduce their intended fertility to alleviate pressure on the planet or by instilling a sense of guilt and concern about bringing a child into a perceived doomed world. However, scientific evidence on this association is still limited and inconsistent.

Method

The analysis draws on nationally representative data from the 2021/22 Gender and Generation Survey, focusing on individuals aged 18–40. It examines certainty in future fertility intentions and the intended number of children through ordinal and multinomial logistic regressions, distinguishing between first‐birth and higher‐order birth intentions. Interactions between climate change concern and country are explored to assess potential cross‐country differences.

Results

The results provide evidence that strong concern for climate change is linked to reduced fertility intentions, driven by childless individuals' intentions to forgo childbearing altogether rather than reducing the number of intended children. This pattern holds across all three countries, with a more pronounced association in Finland and Estonia, and somewhat weaker in Sweden.

Conclusion

This study highlights, for the first time in the European context and on a representative sample, that climate change concern is negatively associated with fertility intentions.
Assessing the Impact of Ghee, Olive Oil and Margarine on Male Rabbit Fertility and Reproductive Hormones
Authors: Shaat Adel R. , Sadek Kadry M. , Mahmoud Sahar F. , Saleh Hamida , Sayed Samy , Shukry Mustafa , Ghamry Heba I. , Zeweil Mohamed M.
Published: November 2024

In the present investigation, the impact of natural ghee, olive oil and synthetic margarine on the fertility parameters of male rabbits was evaluated by examining semen quality, fertility hormones, antioxidant markers, lipid profile, and liver and kidney functions. Eighty male rabbits were randomly allotted into four groups (20 rabbits each, four replicates/group). The basal diet supplemented the control group; the margarine group was fed a 10% margarine diet, the ghee group was fed a 10% ghee diet, and the olive oil group was fed a 10% olive oil diet. In the margarine group, the semen quality parameters, total testosterone levels, free testosterone, luteinizing hormone (LH) and antioxidant enzyme levels as catalase showed a significant reduction compared to other groups. At the same time, they were enhanced in ghee and olive oil groups. A substantial increase of triglyceride (TAG), low‐density lipoprotein (LDL) and cholesterol, with a decrease of high‐density lipoprotein (HDL) levels, were observed in the margarine group contrasted to ghee and olive oil groups. The ghee and the olive oil‐treated group showed strong immunoreactions of androgen, FSH, LH receptors and mild caspase 3 in testicular tissue compared to the margarine‐treated group. Finally, histopathological examination of rabbit testicular tissue showed proliferation of basal spermatogenic cells, increased luminal spermatid of seminiferous epithelium, and proliferation of interstitial cells in normal interstitial tissue in the ghee and olive oil treated group. Still, it showed severe vacuolation and necrosis in the basal luminal seminiferous epithelium and congestion of blood vessels in the margarine group. This present study revealed that the health influence of olive oil and ghee is better than margarine on male fertility parameters.
Bubbles and crashes: A tale of quantiles
Authors: Pavlidis Efthymios G.
Published: November 2024

Periodically collapsing bubbles, if they exist, induce asymmetric dynamics in asset prices. In this article, I show that unit root quantile autoregressive models can approximate such dynamics by allowing the largest autoregressive root to take values below unity at low quantiles, which correspond to price crashes, and above unity at upper quantiles, that correspond to bubble expansions. On this basis, I employ two unit root tests based on quantile autoregressions to detect bubbles. Monte Carlo simulations suggest that the two tests have good size and power properties, and can outperform recursive least‐squares‐based tests. The merits of the two tests are further illustrated in three empirical applications that examine Bitcoin, US equity and US housing markets. In the empirical applications, special attention is given to the issue of controlling for economic fundamentals. The estimation results indicate the presence of asymmetric dynamics that closely match those of the simulated bubble processes.
Understanding Multi‐horizon Forecasts: Identification, Estimation and Testing
Authors: Hurn Stan , Martin Vance , Tian Jing , Xu Lina
Published: November 2024

The properties of multi‐horizon forecasts are investigated by specifying and estimating a model nesting rational forecasts, as well as deviations from rationality resulting from horizon‐specific biases and idiosyncratic errors. Identification of the model's parameters is achieved by combining information on forecasts for a given point in time with different information sets, and forecasts at different points in time based on the same information set. Both sets of forecasts are used to estimate the model's parameters by generalised method of moments. A test of rationality is proposed with the twin advantages of circumventing parameter identification and boundary issues. The finite sample properties of the GMM estimator and the rationality test are also investigated. Applying the approach to US GDP growth forecasts of the Survey of Professional Forecasters, the empirical results show that forecasts deviate from rationality over all forecast horizons, with the strength of the deviations from rationality increasing with the forecast horizon.
Who benefits from strong patent protection? An oil‐dependent country's perspective
Authors: Akhzami Shaikha Al , Zaibet Lokman , Akintola Abdallah , Gulseven Osman , Saboori Behnaz
Published: November 2024

In this paper, a complex interplay is demonstrated, indicating that the impact of intellectual property rights (IPR) and patent protection varies in certain trade contexts. We review the IPR and patent laws in Oman and subsequent amendments following the signing of free trade agreements and investigate how strong protection of patents and IPRs affects Oman's trade. A panel data set comprising the majority of Oman's trading partners from 2000 to 2021 was utilized to achieve this objective. Under the Oman Intellectual Property (IP) Laws, 5617 patent applications were used to calculate the patent index scores. This study contributes four significant findings. First, it analyzes how strong IP and patent protection affect Oman's exports and imports. Second, it assesses the variation in overall trade flows and manufacturing trade flows. Third, while most studies use the IPR index, this study offers a more specific perspective by examining the patent index, particularly concerning manufacturing trade, which is primarily associated with patent‐protected technologies. Fourth, this study provides the first comprehensive analysis of a GCC country that is heavily dependent on oil. This study reveals that Oman's strong IPR and patent regimes significantly enhance overall exports. Strong patent protection promotes the import of high‐tech goods, whereas robust IPR protection unexpectedly reduces manufacturing trade.
Impact of Metabolic Syndrome Traits on Kidney Disease Risk in Individuals with MASLD: A UK Biobank Study
Authors: Bilson Josh , Hydes Theresa J. , McDonnell Declan , Buchanan Ryan M. , Scorletti Eleonora , Mantovani Alessandro , Targher Giovanni , Byrne Christopher D.
Published: November 2024

Background and Aims

The impact of metabolic syndrome (MetS) traits on chronic kidney disease (CKD) risk in metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) is unknown. We investigated the impact of type and number of MetS traits and liver fibrosis on prevalent CKD and incident end‐stage renal disease (ESRD) risk in SLD.

Methods

234 488 UK Biobank participants' were analysed. Hepatic steatosis index (> 36 for SLD, < 30 for no SLD) and MRI‐proton density fat fraction (≥ 5.56%) were used to identify SLD. MetS traits were identified using MASLD criteria. Advanced fibrosis (FIB‐4 score > 2.67) was determined using FIB‐4 scores. eGFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2 or albuminuria > 3 mg/mmol identified prevalent CKD. A validated algorithm identified incident ESRD. Binary logistic and Cox regressions were used to test associations with prevalent CKD ([adjusted odds ratios (ORs)]) and incident ESRD (adjusted hazard ratios [HRs]) respectively.

Results

102 410 participants (41.2%) had SLD. 64.4% had MetS. 1.3% had FIB‐4 score > 2.67. With SLD and only one MetS trait, hypertension (OR 1.35, 95% CI 1.35–1.72) or type 2 diabetes (T2D) (OR 1.89, 95% CI 1.06–3.38) increased risk of prevalent CKD. MetS (≥ 3 traits) increased prevalent CKD risk (OR 1.94, 95% CI 1.75–2.15), which was further increased by advanced liver fibrosis (OR 4.29, 95% CI 3.36–5.47). CKD prevalence increased with increasing MetS traits. Over 13.6 years (median follow‐up), MetS was associated with increased risk of developing ESRD (HR 1.70, 95% CI 1.19–2.43).

Conclusions

In MASLD, hypertension, and T2D, number of MetS traits and liver fibrosis increased risk of prevalent CKD and presence of MetS increased the risk of incident ESRD.
Adaptive compensation using long short‐term memory networks for improved control performance in real‐time hybrid simulation
Authors: Lai Zhenfeng , Liu Yanhui , Zhai Zhipeng , Zhang Jiajun
Published: November 2024

Real‐time hybrid simulation (RTHS) divides structural systems into numerical and experimental substructures, providing a cost‐effective solution for analyzing structural systems, especially those that are large or complex. However, the actuation systems between these substructures inevitably introduce delays, affecting the stability and accuracy of RTHS. To address this issue, this study proposes an adaptive compensation method based on a conditional adaptive time series (CATS) compensator and a long short‐term memory (LSTM) network, termed CATS‐LSTM. The LSTM model predicts actuator responses for parameter estimation and calculates prediction errors, improving control performance and reducing delays. The effectiveness of the proposed CATS‐LSTM method and the accuracy of the LSTM prediction are validated through a series of simulations and experiments. The results indicate that the proposed CATS‐LSTM method outperforms both the CATS and phase lead (PL) methods. Compared to the CATS method, the proposed method reduces the maximum delay, root mean square error, and peak error by 3 ms, 3.66%, and 4.78%, respectively, while achieving reductions of 12 ms, 8.4%, and 10.05%, compared to the PL method. Furthermore, the CATS‐LSTM method is significantly less sensitive to initial parameter estimates, compared to the CATS method, enhancing robustness and mitigating the effects of inaccurate or varying initial parameter estimates.
Centromeres are hotspots for chromosomal inversions and breeding traits in mango
Authors: Wilkinson Melanie J. , McLay Kathleen , Kainer David , Elphinstone Cassandra , Dillon Natalie L. , Webb Matthew , Wijesundara Upendra K. , Ali Asjad , Bally Ian S. E. , Munyengwa Norman , Furtado Agnelo , Henry Robert J. , Hardner Craig M. , Ortiz‐Barrientos Daniel
Published: November 2024

Chromosomal inversions can preserve combinations of favorable alleles by suppressing recombination. Simultaneously, they reduce the effectiveness of purifying selection enabling deleterious alleles to accumulate.

This study explores how areas of low recombination, including centromeric regions and chromosomal inversions, contribute to the accumulation of deleterious and favorable loci in 225 Mangifera indica genomes from the Australian Mango Breeding Program.

Here, we identify 17 chromosomal inversions that cover 7.7% (29.7 Mb) of the M. indica genome: eight pericentric (inversion includes the centromere) and nine paracentric (inversion is on one arm of the chromosome). Our results show that these large pericentric inversions are accumulating deleterious loci, while the paracentric inversions show deleterious levels above and below the genome wide average. We find that despite their deleterious load, chromosomal inversions contain small effect loci linked to variation in crucial breeding traits.

These results indicate that chromosomal inversions have likely facilitated the evolution of key mango breeding traits. Our study has important implications for selective breeding of favorable combinations of alleles in regions of low recombination.
Co‐production of insights for place‐based approaches to revitalise te taiao in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Turner James A. , Stokes Simon , Te Hurinui Jones Richard , Hemi Murray , Collins Heather , Vannier Clémence , Burkitt Lucy , Bradley Clare , Doehring Katharina , Macintosh Katrina A. , Young Justine , Roskruge Nick , Perry‐Smith Piripi , Kahukura Iosefa Renee , Walker Ngarangi , Young Fiona , Bell Amanda , McDermott Alan , Wood Charlotte
Published: November 2024

Communities across Aotearoa New Zealand are collaborating to reverse ecological decline, but little attention has been given to understanding the deeper relationship required with our physical and socio‐cultural landscapes. We used knowledge co‐production to develop 11 insights to support place‐based strategies that nurture a collective responsibility to revitalise both people and place. Twenty‐five subject matter experts across communities, government, industry and research drew from their collective expertise and the review of 63 local‐to‐global case study examples of farm‐to‐community‐scale place‐based approaches. A key output from this work is an Aotearoa New Zealand framework that diagrammatically represents the interdisciplinary nature of the 11 insights.
Electrophysiological Characteristics and Mechanism of His‐Bundle Pacing Guided by Electrocardiograms in Uninterrupted Real‐Time Monitoring Technique
Authors: Zhong Jinyan , Jiang Longfu , Zhang Yuelin , Zheng Nan , Li Hengdong
Published: November 2024

Background

His‐bundle pacing (HBP) is a pacing mode that provides near‐physiological pacing and has more advantages over standard right ventricle (RV) septum pacing in positive clinical results. However, traditional HBP cannot accurately and stably place the lead tip into the His‐Purkinje system. Hence, this study aimed to establish a novel strategy for HBP to strike a balance between an excellent pacing threshold and minor injuries to the conduction system.

Methods

HBP, using continuous and real‐time monitoring of unipolar His‐bundle (HB) electrograms along with electrocardiograms, was performed in 29 consecutive atrial fibrillation patients. We analyzed the unipolar HB intracardiac electrogram (EGM) and electrophysiological characteristics during HBP using John Jiang's connecting cable and an electrophysiology recording system. All patients were followed up for 12 months.

Results

Of the 29 patients, 28 (96.55%) successfully received HBP. Twenty‐one (75%) patients were confirmed to have the negative deflection of His potential with a negative amplitude of ≥ 0.1 mV in HB EGM. The subgroup with a deep negative deflection was recorded with an HBP threshold (0.71 ± 0.41 V), significantly lower than those thresholds with no deep negative deflection (1.83 ± 0.76 V) (p < 0.05). The selective HBP rate was significantly different between the two groups: 20 (95.24%) in the deep negative deflection group and three (42.86%) in the non‐deep negative deflection group (p < 0.05); five (17.24%) patients presented right bundle branch block (RBBB) during the lead placement.

Conclusions

This study supports the safety and feasibility of using an uninterrupted real‐time monitoring technique for HBP. An uninterrupted real‐time monitoring technique can guide the accurate placement of the HB lead and may provide a balance between an excellent pacing threshold and minor injury to the conduction system.
Endogenous Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase‐2 Levels Are Associated With High‐Quality Neat Semen but Unrelated to Sperm Cryoresistance in Bulls
Authors: Pande M. , Kumar S. , Tyagi S. , Sirohi A. S. , Chand N. , Soni Y. K. , Mahajan S. , Saha S. , Sharma A. , Sarika  , Rajoriya J. S. , Anjali  , Mohanty A. K.
Published: November 2024

Tissue Inhibitor of Metalloproteinase‐2 (TIMP‐2) is part of the tissue inhibitors of the metalloproteinases (TIMPs) family. Its primary function is to regulate the activity of matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) across various tissues, including those of the reproductive system. This study aimed to quantify the natural levels of TIMP‐2 in seminal plasma (SP) and sperm membrane (SM) of bulls, explore potential associations between TIMP‐2 levels and semen quality parameters, and examine the relationship between TIMP‐2 levels and sperm cryoresistance in bulls. Thirty semen samples from Frieswal breeding bulls were categorized into two groups based on their initial progressive motility (IPM): Good (IPM ≥ 70%; n = 21) and Poor (IPM ≤ 40%; n = 9). The samples were evaluated for their quality parameters at the fresh stage, and TIMP‐2 levels were measured in SP and SM using a bovine‐specific ELISA kit. Following cryopreservation of Good samples (n = 21), post‐thaw motility (PTM) was used to further classify samples into Freezeable (PTM ≥ 50%; n = 14) and Non‐Freezable (PTM < 50%; n = 7) groups. In frozen–thawed samples, sperm attributes, kinetics, and functional parameters were assessed, and the results were correlated with retrospective TIMP‐2 levels of SP/SM. Our study revealed that the quantified levels of TIMP‐2 ranged from 100.27 to 535.95 ng/L in SP and from 0 to 115.78 ng/10 million spermatozoa in SM. TIMP‐2 levels in both SP and SM were significantly higher in Good ejaculates compared to Poor ejaculates (p < 0.01). Furthermore, total TIMP‐2 levels in the SP/SM of semen samples from bulls showed a positive correlation with fresh semen attributes. However, SP/SM TIMP‐2 levels in the Freezeable group did not show any significant differences compared to the Non‐Freezable group in post‐thaw semen quality attributes, kinetic parameters, and functional tests, except for a significant positive correlation (r = 0.530, p < 0.05) between sperm DNA integrity and SP‐TIMP‐2 levels. In conclusion, the findings suggested that TIMP‐2 can be a positive regulator of semen quality at the neat stage. However, when it comes to the resilience of sperm to cryopreservation, the levels of TIMP‐2 do not seem to exert any significant influence in breeding bulls.