bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patient experiences of continuous glucose monitoring and sensor‐augmented insulin pump therapy for diabetes: A systematic review of qualitative studies
Authors: Natale Patrizia , Chen Sharon , Chow Clara K. , Cheung Ngai Wah , Martinez‐Martin David , Caillaud Corinne , Scholes‐Robertson Nicole , Kelly Ayano , Craig Jonathan C. , Strippoli Giovanni , Jaure Allison
Published: August 2023

Aims

Blood glucose control is central to the management of diabetes, and continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) improves glycemic control. We aimed to describe the perspectives of people with diabetes using CGM.

Materials and methods

We performed a systematic review of qualitative studies.

Results

Fifty‐four studies involving 1845 participants were included. Six themes were identified: gaining control and convenience (reducing pain and time, safeguarding against complications, achieving stricter glucose levels, and sharing responsibility with family); motivating self‐management (fostering ownership, and increasing awareness of glycemic control); providing reassurance and freedom (attaining peace of mind, and restoring social participation); developing confidence (encouraged by the endorsement of others, gaining operational skills, customizing settings for ease of use, and trust in the device); burdened with device complexities (bewildered by unfamiliar technology, reluctant to rely on algorithms, overwhelmed by data, frustrated with malfunctioning and inaccuracy, distressed by alerts, and bulkiness of machines interfering with lifestyle); and excluded by barriers to access (constrained by cost, lack of suppliers).

Conclusions

CGM can improve self‐management and confidence in patients managing diabetes. However, the technical issues, uncertainty in readings, and cost may limit the uptake. Education and training from the health professionals may help to reduce the practical and psychological burden for better patient outcomes.
Treatment and mortality risk of older adults with non‐small cell cancer in Taiwan: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Wang Chun‐Chieh , Chiu Shao‐Wen , Wu Shang‐Jung , Pan Lung‐Kwang , Yen Yung‐Feng , Lai Yun‐Ju , Chen Chu‐Chieh
Published: August 2023

Background

Older patients tend to have decreased physical functions and more comorbidities than younger patients. At present, the best management for very elderly patients with lung cancer is not known. In this study, we aimed to investigate treatment and mortality risk of older adults with non‐small cell cancer (NSCLC) in Taiwan.

Methods

This study analyzed data from the Taiwan Cancer Registry database. Patients aged ≥80 years with newly diagnosed NSCLC between 2010 and 2017 were included. Treatment options were categorized as curative, palliative, and no treatment. Patients were followed up until death or December 31, 2020. Univariable and multivariable Cox proportional hazards models were used to estimate mortality risk, and Kaplan–Meier survival curves were drawn.

Results

A total of 11 941 patients, aged ≥80 years, with newly diagnosed NSCLC between 2010 and 2017 were identified from the Taiwan Cancer Registry and followed up until 2020. The mean age was 84.4 ± 3.7 years old, and 7468 (62.54%) were men. The Kaplan–Meier survival curves showed significant differences across the three treatment options (log‐rank p < 0.001). Results from multivariate Cox regression demonstrated that patients on palliative treatment (adjusted HR: 0.52, 95% CI: 0.48–0.56, p < 0.001) and curative treatment (adjusted HR: 0.45, 95% CI: 0.42–0.48, p < 0.001) had a significantly lower mortality risk than those with no treatment. The subgroup analyses stratified by cancer stages also showed consistent findings.

Conclusion

Elderly patients with NSCLC had significantly decreased mortality risk when receiving curative or palliative treatment compared with those without treatment. In the future, further studies are warranted to investigate complications and quality of life of elderly patients with NSCLC during palliative or curative treatment.
Medication treatment for alcohol use disorder in special populations
Authors: Malhotra Aniket , Drexler Karen , Hsu Michael , Tang Yi‐lang
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is a significant public health concern, with underutilized effective treatments, particularly in special populations. This article summarizes the current evidence and guidelines for treating AUD in special populations.

Methods

This article is a literature review that synthesizes the latest research on AUD treatment for special populations. We screened 242 articles and included 57 in our final review.

Results

There are four food and Drug Administration‐approved medications for AUD (MAUD): disulfiram, oral naltrexone, extended‐release injectable naltrexone (XR‐NTX), and acamprosate. Naltrexone and disulfiram have the potential to cause liver toxicity, and acamprosate should be avoided in patients with severe kidney disease. Psychosocial treatments should be considered first‐line for pregnant and nursing patients. Naltrexone is contraindicated in patients on opioids, as it may precipitate acute withdrawal. For patients experiencing homelessness, nonabstinent treatment goals may be more practical, and XR‐NTX should be considered to improve adherence. Limited evidence suggests medication can improve AUD treatment outcomes in adolescents and young adults. For patients with poor treatment response despite adequate medication adherence, switching to a different medication and augmentation with psychosocial treatments should be considered.

Discussion and Conclusions

Understanding the unique considerations for special populations with AUD is crucial, and addressing their special needs may improve their treatment outcomes.

Scientific Significance

Our study significantly contributes to the existing literature by summarizing crucial information for the treatment of AUD in special populations, highlighting distinct challenges, and emphasizing tailored approaches to improve overall health and well‐being.
Estimating habit‐forming and variety‐seeking behavior: Valuation of recreational birdwatching
Authors: Guilfoos Todd , Thomas Priya , Kolstoe Sonja
Published: August 2023

Past experiences influence choices, and people's preferences for more similar (habit‐forming) or different (variety‐seeking) experiences are reflected in these choices. We develop a structural estimation framework to capture whether people are habit forming or variety seeking and apply it to the choice of recreation site. This research contributes to the revealed preference literature by demonstrating how to account for habit or variety‐seeking behavior in recreation site choice models in a two‐stage framework. Using this framework, we estimate similarity weights that reflect the birders habit formation and variety seeking preferences. Predicted probabilities from the first stage model are then incorporated into the second stage, a mixed logit recreation site choice model of bird watching trips from eBird, by their members. We find that including the dynamic elements of choice, specifically variety‐seeking behavior, can double the estimated willingness to pay (WTP) for individual sites relative to the static model. Although our sample of bird watching trips taken by eBird members is a sample of convenience, these results suggest that static models of recreation site choice are a lower bound on our recreation demand WTP estimates. We find variety‐seeking preferences are related to land cover and the site's fixed attributes, whereas habit formation appears for seasonality in the bird watching context.
CUB domains are not required for OVCH2 function in sperm maturation in the mouse epididymis
Authors: Kent Katarzyna , Nozawa Kaori , Sutton Courtney , Daniel Frey , Ikawa Masahito , Garcia Thomas X. , Matzuk Martin M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Ovochymase 2 (Ovch2) is an epididymis‐specific gene that is required for male fertility. While a multitude of reproductive tract‐specific genes required for male fertility have been identified, OVCH2 is thus far the first protein required for male fertility that contains Complement C1r/C1s, Uegf, Bmp1 (CUB) domains located in tandem in the C‐terminus of the protein. Identifying the functional significance of this unique domain has implications in better understanding fertility and infertility and as a potential contraceptive target.

Objective

The goals of these studies were to understand the influence and requirement of OVCH2 CUB domains in the localization and functional requirement of OVCH2 in sperm maturation and function.

Materials and methods

To this end, we performed in vivo localization analysis of OVCH2 and reproductive phenotype analysis of mice containing C‐terminal FLAG tag on OVCH2, with either the entire protein intact, or CUB2 or both CUB1 and CUB2 genetically ablated. All mice were generated through the CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing approach.

Results

We found that OVCH2 is specifically expressed in the proximal caput epididymidis, and the absence of CUB2 did not affect this localization pattern. Although the absence of both CUB domains significantly reduced sperm motility and progressive motility, this effect was not manifested in a reduction in fertility over a 6‐month period mating trial, which showed no significant differences between control and CUB deletant mice. Further, the absence of one or both CUB domains did not affect reproductive organ structure or sperm morphology.

Conclusions

Our studies demonstrate that the CUB domains are not required for fertility in male mice, at least under the normal animal housing conditions our mice were tested in, and suggest that the enzymatic activity of the OVCH2 protease, in the absence of its CUB domains, is sufficient for normal sperm processing in the epididymis. Although our findings do not preclude the possibility that OVCH2 CUB domains are required under a yet‐identified stress condition, our findings demonstrate that the most likely region for deleterious mutations in men with idiopathic infertility and the most vulnerable site for inhibition of OVCH2 protein function is in its protease domain, and not its CUB domains. Our findings have implications in the genetic screening of infertile men and the development of a novel non‐hormonal male contraceptive by honing in on the more critical region of a functionally required protein.
Iatrogenic bladder injury following gynecologic and obstetric surgery: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jensen Ann‐Sophie , Heinemeier Ina Isabell Kathleen , Schroll Jeppe Bennekou , Rudnicki Martin
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Iatrogenic bladder injury is a rare complication following obstetric and gynecologic surgery and only sparse information is available regarding length of transurethral catheterization following injuries, suturing techniques including choice of suture, and complications. The primary aim of this systematic review was to evaluate length of transurethral catheterization in relation to complications following iatrogenic bladder injury. Second, we aimed to evaluate the number of complications following repair of iatrogenic bladder injuries and to describe suture technique and best choice of suture.

Material and methods

A systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted, and the results were presented in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. PubMed, Embase, and Medline electronic databases were searched, and followed by screening from two independent reviewers. Studies published between January 2000 and March 2023 describing methods of bladder injury repair following obstetric or gynecologic benign surgery were included. Data extraction was done using Covidence. We performed a meta‐analysis on complications after repair and explored this with a meta‐regression analysis (Metafor package R) on length of catheterization to determine if length of catheterization influenced the risk of complication. A risk of bias tool from Cochrane was used to assess risk of bias and the study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021290586).

Results

Out of 2175 articles, we included 21 retrospective studies, four prospective studies, and one case‐control study. In total, 595 bladder injuries were included. Cesarean section was the most prominent surgery type, followed by laparoscopically assisted vaginal hysterectomy. We found no statistically significant association between length of transurethral catheterization and numbers of complications following repair of iatrogenic bladder injuries. More than 90% of injuries were recognized intraoperatively. Approximately 1% had complications following iatrogenic bladder injury repair (0.010, 95% confidence interval 0.0015–0.0189, 26 studies, 595 participants, I2 = 4%).

Conclusions

Our review did not identify conclusive evidence on the length of postoperative catheterization following bladder injury warranting further research. However, the rate of complications was low following iatrogenic bladder injury with a wide range of repair approaches.
Visualization of contractions: Evaluation of a new experience design concept to enhance the childbirth experience
Authors: Thijssen Kirsten M. J. , Kierkels Jeanine J. M. , van Meurs Andrea , Verhoeven Corine J. , van der Hout‐van der Jagt M. Beatrijs , Oei S. Guid
Published: August 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to develop and evaluate an innovative design proposition intended to help enhance the childbirth experience. The innovation consists of a smartphone application for birth preparation during pregnancy with information and coaching, in addition to a wall projection at the labor ward that visualizes the progress of labor based on uterine monitoring data.

Methods

We conducted a randomized controlled clinical pilot study. Singleton pregnant people pursuing a vaginal birth were recruited between 28 and 32 weeks of gestation and allocated to the intervention group (mobile application during the third trimester and wall projection at the labor ward) or to care as usual. Childbirth expectations and experiences were measured with validated questionnaires, which were completed at 32 and 36 weeks of gestation, immediately after birth, and at 4 weeks postpartum. Quantitative outcomes were analyzed and feedback about the proposition was evaluated using qualitative methods.

Results

The qualitative feedback from patients was largely positive; however, we could not detect any significant differences between the intervention and control groups about fear of childbirth and other outcome measures.

Conclusion

In this pilot study, we evaluated a new experience design proposition for pregnancy and childbirth. This study generated data that will help to further improve and evaluate similar innovations in the future. This application may facilitate participatory care, promoting active involvement of parents in the healthcare processes of pregnancy and childbirth.
Antibiotics versus non‐antibiotic treatments for acute otitis externa: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Di Traglia Rosalind , Tudor‐Green Ben , Muzaffar Jameel , Borsetto Daniele , Smith Matthew E.
Published: August 2023

Background

Otitis externa is a condition causing inflammation of the outer ear canal, which presents with itching, discharge and pain. Most cases of acute otitis externa are caused by bacterial infection and are thus treated with antibiotics.

This systematic review and meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials aims to assess the effectiveness of topical non‐antibiotic treatments compared to topical antibiotic treatment for the treatment of acute otitis externa.

Methods

Systematic review and meta‐analysis databases searched: Cochrane Library including ClinicalTrials.gov; MEDLINE; World Health Organisation International Clinical Trials Registry Platform and Web of Science to identify randomised clinical trials evaluating topical antibiotics and topical non‐antibiotic agents in adults and children with acute otitis externa. Non‐antibiotic therapeutics for comparison with topical antibiotics included antiseptics, steroids, non‐pharmaceuticals and astringents.

Results

Seventeen trials were eligible for inclusion, with 10 combined in meta‐analysis. Data could be pooled comparing antiseptic and steroid monotherapies with topical antibiotic agents. There were no significant differences in cure rates in any pairwise comparisons. Individually, the majority of studies favoured topical antiseptics or steroids over antibiotics, however these differences were not significant when pooled in meta‐analysis.

Conclusion

Antiseptic, steroid and antibiotic monotherapies are all effective for the management of acute otitis externa. There is insufficient evidence to suggest that topical antiseptic or steroid agents are superior or inferior to topical antibiotics.
Managing invasive hybrids with pond hydroperiod manipulation in an endangered salamander system
Authors: Cooper Robert D. , Shaffer H. Bradley
Published: August 2023

When invasive and endangered native taxa hybridize, the resulting admixture introduces novel conservation challenges. Across a large region of central California, a hybrid swarm consisting of admixed endangered California tiger salamanders (CTS) (Ambystoma californiense) and introduced barred tiger salamanders (BTS) (Ambystoma mavortium) has replaced native populations, threatening the genetic integrity of CTS and the vernal pool systems they inhabit. We employed a large‐scale, genomically informed field experiment to test whether shortening breeding pond hydroperiod would favor native CTS genotypes. We constructed 14 large, seminatural ponds to evaluate the effect of hydroperiod duration on larval survival and mass at metamorphosis. We tracked changes in non‐native allele frequencies with a 5237‐gene exon capture array and employed a combination of custom Bayesian and generalized linear models to quantify the effect of pond duration on salamander fitness. Earlier work on this system showed hybrid superiority under many conditions and suggested that hybrids are favored in human‐modified ponds with artificially long hydroperiods. Consistent with these earlier studies, we found overwhelming evidence for hybrid superiority. Very short hydroperiods substantially reduced the mass (1.1–1.5 fold) and survival probability (10–13 fold) of both native and hybrid larvae, confirming that hydroperiod likely exerts a strong selective pressure in the wild. We identified 86 genes, representing 1.8% of 4723 screened loci, that significantly responded to this hydroperiod‐driven selection. In contrast to earlier work, under our more natural experimental conditions, native CTS survival and size at metamorphosis were always less than hybrids, suggesting that hydroperiod management alone will not shift selection to favor native larval genotypes. However, shortening pond hydroperiod may limit productivity of hybrid ponds, complementing other strategies to remove hybrids while maintaining vernal pool ecosystems. This study confirms and expands on previous work that highlights the importance of hydroperiod management to control invasive aquatic species.
A randomized, controlled single, and multiple ascending dose trial of the safety, pharmacokinetics and pharmacodynamics of SN1011 in healthy subjects
Authors: Zhu Leilei , Shi Rong , Zhao Tongfang , Ye Yujie , Tang Jie , Hu Yihui , Peng Peng , Wang Dong , Chong Clement , Xu Guolin , Leung Shui‐on , Yuan Wei’an
Published: August 2023

The purpose of this study was to investigate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of SN1011, a novel Bruton tyrosine kinase (BTK) inhibitor, and food effects in healthy subjects. In this phase I trial, subjects received single ascending doses (SADs) of SN1011 (100 to 800 mg), multiple ascending doses (MADs) of SN1011 (200 to 600 mg), or placebo q.d. Additionally, 12 subjects randomly received a single dose of SN1011 600 mg under fasting states and then fed states, vice versa. Safety was assessed per Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events version 5.0. Pharmacokinetic parameters were calculated by noncompartmental analysis and BTK receptor occupancy in peripheral blood monocytes was determined. Seventy‐one healthy subjects were dosed in five SAD cohorts, three MAD cohorts, and one food effect cohort, with 57 receiving SN1011 and 14 receiving placebo. No serious adverse events (AEs) were reported. There was no correlation between AE occurrences and SN1011 exposure. The three most frequent AEs with SN1011 were increased blood triglycerides, decreased neutrophil count, and decreased leucocyte count. SN1011 exhibited a dose‐proportional increase in maximum plasma concentration and area under the time concentration curve following single and multiple dose administrations, with an accumulation ratio of 1.5 to 2.2 after multiple dose administrations. No difference in SN1011 exposure was observed between fed states. BTK receptor occupancy remained above 83% over 24 h after single administration and remained above 80% for the MAD groups for 10 days of continuous q.d. administration. SN1011 was well‐tolerated and safe after single or multiple exposures to healthy subjects, supporting further clinical development of SN1011 for treatment of autoimmune diseases.
CYP2C19 loss‐of‐function alleles and use of omeprazole or esomeprazole increase the risk of cardiovascular outcomes in patients using clopidogrel
Authors: Ramste Markus , Ritvos Markus , Häyrynen Sergei , Kiiski Johanna I. , Niemi Mikko , Sinisalo Juha
Published: August 2023

Our aim was to investigate in a real‐life prospective patient cohort how CYP2C19 loss‐of‐function (LOF) variants and CYP2C19 inhibitor omeprazole or esomeprazole influence the incidence of cardiovascular events in patients using clopidogrel. Data based simultaneously on these factors are conflicting and sparse. A cohort of prospective patients (n = 1972) with acute coronary syndrome (n = 1302) or symptomatic chronic coronary disease (n = 656) was followed for 365 days after hospitalization with information on purchased prescription drugs, hospital discharge, death, and genotype for CYP2C19*2, CYP2C19*3, and CYP2C19*8 LOF variants. The primary study outcome measurement was cardiovascular death or recurring myocardial infarction or stroke. Altogether, 608 patients (30.8%) carried CYP2C19 LOF alleles. During the 365‐day follow‐up 252 patients (12.8%) had an ischemic vascular event. Cardiovascular events were significantly more frequent in carriers of CYP2C19 LOF alleles (14.8%, 95% confidence interval [CI], 11.7–17.8) than in non‐carriers (10.8%, 95% CI, 9.0–12.6, p = 0.0159). Omeprazole or esomeprazole use was similar among LOF allele carriers (n = 131, 21.5%) and non‐carriers (n = 250, 18.3%, p = 0.185). Cardiovascular events were significantly more common in a composite group consisting of all CYP2C19 LOF carriers regardless of proton pump inhibitor use status and non‐carriers using omeprazole or esomeprazole than in non‐carriers not using omeprazole or esomeprazole (14.8%, 95% CI, 12.2–17.3 vs. 9.9%, 95% CI, 8.0–11.9, p = 0.00173). We observed significantly more cardiovascular events in carriers of CYP2C19 LOF variants and in non‐carriers using omeprazole or esomeprazole. For optimal patient care, both genetics and concomitant medication should be considered.
Coordinated monitoring and mergers and acquisitions
Authors: Croci Ettore , Mazur Mieszko , Salganik‐Shoshan Galla
Published: August 2023

This paper shows that coordinated monitoring by institutional investors affects how firms behave in the M&A market. We employ the spatial dimension of geographic links between major institutions as a proxy for interaction and information exchange—a process that determines the effectiveness of investor monitoring over firm management. Using data over the last 30 years, we show that the returns to acquiring shareholders are significantly higher, and M&A activity is significantly more intense when institutions coordinate better their monitoring efforts. Our results are robust to series of tests to gauge their sensitivity to different model specifications and estimation procedures.
Different mechanisms underpin the decline in growth of anchovies and sardines of the Bay of Biscay
Authors: Boëns Andy , Ernande Bruno , Petitgas Pierre , Lebigre Christophe
Published: August 2023

Declines in individuals' growth in exploited fish species are generally attributed to evolutionary consequences of size‐selective fishing or to plastic responses due to constraints set by changing environmental conditions dampening individuals' growth. However, other processes such as growth compensation and non‐directional selection can occur and their importance on the overall phenotypic response of exploited populations has largely been ignored. Using otolith growth data collected in European anchovy and sardine of the Bay of Biscay (18 cohorts from 2000 to 2018), we parameterized the breeder's equation to determine whether declines in size‐at‐age in these species were due to an adaptive response (i.e. related to directional or non‐directional selection differentials within parental cohorts) or a plastic response (i.e. related to changes in environmental). We found that growth at age‐0 in anchovy declined between parents and their offspring when biomass increased and the selective disappearance of large individuals was high in parents. Therefore, an adaptive response probably occurred in years with high fishing effort and the large increase in biomass after the collapse of this stock maintained this adaptive response subsequently. In sardine offspring, higher growth at age‐0 was associated with increasing biomass between parents and offspring, suggesting a plastic response to a bottom‐up process (i.e. a change in food quantity or quality). Parental cohorts in which selection favoured individuals with high growth compensation produced offspring high catch up growth rates, which may explain the smaller decline in growth in sardine relative to anchovy. Finally, on non‐directional selection differentials were not significantly related to the changes in growth at age‐0 and growth compensation at age‐1 in both species. Although anchovy and sardine have similar ecologies, the mechanisms underlying the declines in their growth are clearly different. The consequences of the exploitation of natural populations could be long lasting if density‐dependent processes follow adaptive changes.
Molecular characteristics in Chinese with chronic lymphocytic leukemia by next‐generation sequencing: A single‐center retrospective analysis
Authors: Cao Yanglin , Chen Yan , Tao Tingting , Gong Yanlei , Xu Chao , Cen Jiannong , Shen Hongjie , Pan Jinlan , Chen Suning , Yao Li
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Although the prevalence of Asian chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) patients is not as high as that of Caucasians, there are more atypical CLLs in Asia whose genetic characteristics and their clinical significance are distinct and remain unclear.

Methods

A retrospective analysis of 85 CLL samples in our center was conducted from 2019 to 2022. We used next‐generation sequencing with a 172 gene panel to explore the multi‐gene mutational data and the mutational status of immunoglobulin heavy variable (IGHV) gene.

Results

MYD88 (20.0%) was the most frequently mutated gene, much higher than in Europe, followed in order by TP53 (18.8%), NOTCH1 (14.1%), IGLL5 (11.8%), and DNMT3A (8.2%). In addition, the incidence of ATM and SF3B1 mutations was relatively lower in our centre compared to Europe. Mutated (M)‐IGHV patients were more likely to have a cooccurrence of MYD88 mutation, while complex karyotype and DNMT3A mutation were more common in the unmutated (U)‐IGHV group. MYD88 mutated CLL was characterized by prevalence in young males in high‐risk staging, with isolated 13q deletion and concomitant mutation of IGLL5. CLL patients with MYD88 and TP53 mutation showed an unfavorable prognosis.

Conclusion

These results would be valuable in helping to understand the characteristics and significance of cytogenetic genetics in Chinese patients with CLL.
The resolution of phagosomes
Authors: Mylvaganam Sivakami , Freeman Spencer A.
Published: August 2023

Phagocytosis is a fundamental immunobiological process responsible for the removal of harmful particulates. While the number of phagocytic events achieved by a single phagocyte can be remarkable, exceeding hundreds per day, the same phagocytic cells are relatively long‐lived. It should therefore be obvious that phagocytic meals must be resolved in order to maintain the responsiveness of the phagocyte and to avoid storage defects. In this article, we discuss the mechanisms involved in the resolution process, including solute transport pathways and membrane traffic. We describe how products liberated in phagolysosomes support phagocyte metabolism and the immune response. We also speculate on mechanisms involved in the redistribution of phagosomal metabolites back to circulation. Finally, we highlight the pathologies owed to impaired phagosome resolution, which range from storage disorders to neurodegenerative diseases.
Impacts of three approaches on collaborative knowledge building, group performance, behavioural engagement, and socially shared regulation in online collaborative learning
Authors: Zheng Lanqin , Fan Yunchao , Huang Zichen , Gao Lei
Published: August 2023

Background

Online collaborative learning has been widely adopted in the field of education. However, learners often find it difficult to engage in collaboratively building knowledge and jointly regulating online collaborative learning.

Objectives

The study compared the impacts of the three learning approaches on collaborative knowledge building, group performance, socially shared regulation, behavioural engagement, and cognitive load in an online collaborative learning context. The first is the automatic construction of knowledge graphs (CKG) approach, the second is the automatic analysis of topic distribution (ATD) approach, and the third one is the traditional online collaborative learning (OCL) approach without any analytic feedback.

Methods

A total of 144 college students participated in a quasi‐experimental study, where 48 students learned with the CKG approach, 48 students used the ATD approach, and the remaining 48 students adopted the OCL approach.

Results and Conclusions

The findings revealed that the CKG approach could encourage collaborative knowledge building, socially shared regulation, and behavioural engagement in building knowledge better than the ATD and OCL approaches. Both the CKG and ATD approaches could better improve group performance than the OCL approach. Furthermore, the CKG approach did not increase learners' cognitive load, but the ATD approach did.

Implications

This study has theoretical and practical implications for utilising learning analytics in online collaborative learning. Furthermore, deep neural network models are powerful for constructing knowledge graphs and analysing topic distribution.
PTCH/SMO gene mutations in odontogenic keratocysts and drug interventions
Authors: Wang Shan , Hong Yingying , Qu Jiafei , Zhang Jianyun , Zhang Yuhao , Zhai Jiemei , Li Tiejun
Published: August 2023

Background

Odontogenic keratocysts (OKCs) are odontogenic jaw lesions that cause destruction and dysfunction of the jawbone. OKCs can be sporadic or associated with nevoid basic cell carcinoma syndrome (NBCCS). However, the factors that initiate OKCs and the mechanism of cyst formation remain unclear. Here, we investigated the impact of PTCH1 and SMO mutations on disease progression, as well as the effects of sonic hedgehog (SHH) signaling pathway inhibitors GDC‐0449 and GANT61 on OKC fibroblasts.

Methods

Eight sporadic OKC fibroblasts without gene mutations were used as the control, and six NBCCS‐related fibroblasts were cultured in vitro. The effect of PTCH1 non‐truncated mutation 3499G>A (p.G1167R) and SMO c.2081C>G (p.P694R) mutation on OKC fibroblast proliferation was examined by EdU assay. CCK8 and wound‐healing assays detected the effects of OKC fibroblasts carrying PTCH1 c.3499G>A (p.G1167R) and SMO c.2081C>G (p.P694R) mutations on the proliferation and migration of HaCaT cells after co‐culture. Quantitative real‐time PCR detected the effects of GDC‐0449 or GANT61 on the SHH signaling pathway in NBCCS‐related OKCs with PTCH1 truncated mutations and PTCH1 c.3499G>A (p.G1167R) and/or SMO c.2081C>G (p.P694R) mutations.

Results

PTCH1 c.3499G>A (p.G1167R) and SMO c.2081C>G (p.P694R) promoted the proliferation of OKC fibroblasts. The proliferation and migration of HaCaT cells were affected by NBCCS‐related OKC fibroblasts carrying PTCH1 c.3499G>A (p.G1167R) and SMO c.2081C>G (p.P694R) mutations. GDC‐0449 significantly inhibited the SHH signaling pathway in NBCCS‐related OKC fibroblasts with PTCH1 truncated mutations. An NBCCS‐related OKC carrying PTCH1 c.3499G>A (p.G1167R) and SMO c.2081C>G (p.P694R) mutations were resistant to GDC‐0449 but inhibited by GANT61.

Conclusions

Genetic mutations in OKC fibroblasts may affect the biological behavior of epithelial and stromal cells and cause disease. GDC‐0449 could be used to treat OKCs, especially NBCCS‐related OKCs with PTCH1 truncated mutations. SMO c.2081C>G (p.P694R) may lead to resistance to GDC‐0449; however, GANT61 may be used as an alternative inhibitor.
Lessons Learned from an Academic Partnership to Review Pennsylvania Network for Student Assistance Services' Annual Survey
Authors: Sekhar Deepa L. , Schaefer Eric W. , Hoke Alicia M. , Rosen Perri , Chuzie Roberta A. , Milakovic Dana M.
Published: August 2023

INTRODUCTION

Pennsylvania's Student Assistance Program (SAP) began in the mid‐1980s to address student barriers to academic success. SAP teams, groups of trained school and community professionals, review referrals, and connect students to services. State leadership conducts an annual SAP team survey, but capacity to evaluate data and affect change is limited. In 2020, leadership partnered with [institution name] to collaboratively review the survey data.

METHODS

Frequencies and percentages were calculated. Open responses were coded. Logistic regression models evaluated the association between SAP team size, team meeting frequency, and team maintenance.

RESULTS

The 2019 to 2020 survey had 1003 respondents. Median number of SAP team members was 8 (range 1‐21). The majority (54%) indicated their SAP team met once per week/cycle for 30 to 90+ minutes. Larger teams met more often. Annual team maintenance occurred for 38% of teams, and was more common for larger teams. SAP team members identified mental health (68%), trauma (44%), and parent engagement (36%) as top training needs.

CONCLUSIONS

An academic partnership successfully provided the capacity to review SAP survey responses, and informed evidenced‐based discussion of best practice guidelines and realignment of staff professional development opportunities.
Tool use involving a different prey type, microhabitat and location, and long‐term anvil use, by the graphic tuskfish Choerodon graphicus (De Vis 1885)
Authors: Pryor Kimberley Jane , Milton Ashley Monique
Published: August 2023

Tool use is a remarkable animal behaviour, and the investigation of this phenomenon in fishes is a relatively new and growing field. The graphic tuskfish Choerodon graphicus (De Vis 1885) has previously been documented using anvils but the extent and variability of this tool‐use behaviour remains poorly understood. In this study, we investigated whether C. graphicus breaks open crustaceans and/or sea urchins on anvils in different microhabitats and/or locations. We also inspected two previously identified anvils for evidence of long‐term anvil use. Three individual C. graphicus were observed breaking open sea urchins on dead coral anvils in a coral rubble microhabitat at Île aux Canards, New Caledonia. They produced visual and auditory cues while carrying out tool‐use behaviour and these cues often attracted attendant fishes. Notably, two anvils appeared to have been used by one or more tool‐using C. graphicus for years at Îlot Maître, New Caledonia. These findings suggest that tool‐use behaviour is both innate and learned and is a prey‐handling method of choice used by individuals that learn to specialise in large prey items from a few underutilised hard‐shelled prey species. Furthermore, the findings show that specific anvils can be used long‐term and also suggest that individual wrasses may carry out tool‐use behaviour long‐term. The study provides new insights into the feeding ecology and social behaviour of C. graphicus and underscores the need to further investigate the extent and variability of tool use in fishes.
A conserved osmoregulation mechanism wired for mutual benefit
Authors: Dallaire Alexandra
Published: August 2023

This article is a Commentary on Fan et al. (2023), 240: 1497–1518.
Understanding the role of fungi in peatland degradation after drainage
Authors: Parker Thomas C. , Clemmensen Karina E.
Published: August 2023

This article is a Commentary onDefrenneet al. (2023),240: 412–425.
Freedom and social practices
Authors: Christman John
Published: August 2023

The central idea of this article is that social freedom should range over socially constituted practices and ways of life rather than merely individual actions or aggregations of such actions. To be free, it is argued, is to be capable of pursuing opportunities to engage in socially constituted practices and ways of living that one has reason to value from the point of view of one's practical identity (or identities). The implication of this position is that supporting social freedom must involve positive support of those social relations that constitute those practices and ways of life. Hence negative freedom views, such as liberal or republican accounts, are incomplete as conceptions of the kind of freedom that is so deeply valued within democratic cultures as well as in liberation struggles against social systems where freedom is systematically denied.
Age‐related changes in scalp biophysical parameters: A comparative analysis of the 20s and 50s age groups
Authors: Lee Young In , Kim Jemin , Park Sae Rom , Ham Seoyoon , Lee Hyo Jin , Park Chae Rin , Kim Hyun Na , Kang Byung Ha , Jung Inhee , Suk Jang Mi , Lee Ju Hee
Published: August 2023

Background

Age‐related changes in scalp parameters affect hair quality and scalp condition. However, detailed data on biophysical parameters of the scalp across age groups remain scarce. We aimed to investigate the differences in scalp parameters between individuals in their 20s and 50s and analyze their sex‐specific variations.

Materials and methods

Two hundred participants (160 women and 40 men) were equally divided into 20s and 50s age groups. Biophysical parameters of the scalp, including elasticity, pH, trans‐epidermal water loss (TEWL), sebum production, desquamation, firmness, redness, and yellowness, were measured in the vertex, occipital, and temporal regions. Hair density and thickness were measured in the temporal region. The accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the skin was noninvasively measured in a subset of 60 women.

Results

Skin firmness and redness increased with age in women, whereas yellowness increased with age in both sexes. Sebum production and pH levels were significantly lower in the 50s age group than in the 20s age group, particularly in women. TEWL was lower in men in their 50s than in those in their 20s, particularly in the occipital region. A significant reduction in hair density was observed in the 50s age group in both sexes. AGE accumulation in the skin increased with age and was correlated with scalp skin yellowness.

Conclusion

Age‐related changes in scalp parameters have important implications for hair health and scalp condition. These findings emphasize the importance of considering age and sex when developing hair care strategies.
Envisioning future roles: How women medical students navigate the figured world of medical school
Authors: Blalock A. Emiko , Miao Sanfeng , Wentworth Chelsea
Published: August 2023

Background

Women medical students experience tensions as they learn to become doctors. These tensions reflect the cultural world of medical school and clinical medicine, spaces that are highly gendered, racist and exclusionary. This study describes how women medical students are envisioning themselves as future doctors during their first 2 years of medical school while experiencing these tensions.

Methods

Using Figured Worlds theory, this qualitative study focused on four participants from a larger longitudinal study. Each participant was interviewed four times over a 2‐year period using narrative methodology and provided multiple written reflections during their first year of medical school. Analysis was performed using deductive methods reflecting Figured Worlds theory.

Results

Participants offered storied experiences about how they understood their place in the figured world, ways they enacted agency and how they responded to contradictions they encountered in medical school as they learned to become doctors. These three findings reflect concepts of Figured Worlds theory: positionality and discourse, power and agency, and improvisation. These findings also illuminate ways women medical students are navigating gendered and hierarchical structures of medical school to reimagine their roles in medicine.

Conclusion

Participants' stories illuminate that woman medical students' lived experiences shaped their decision to enter medical school and continue to shape how they navigate their educational experience. These interactions have implications for their future roles as physicians and how medical schools respond to cultures of teaching and learning that may not recognise these students' positionality and potential agency in medical school and clinical medicine.
Variable flip angle T1 mapping and multi‐echo T2 and T2* mapping magnetic resonance imaging sequences allow quantitative assessment of canine lumbar disc degeneration
Authors: Bouhsina Nora , Tur Léa , Hardel Jean‐Baptiste , Madec Stéphane , Rouleau Dominique , Etienne Floriane , Guicheux Jérôme , Clouet Johann , Fusellier Marion
Published: August 2023

Magnetic resonance imaging is the gold standard for diagnosing intervertebral disc (IVD) degeneration in dogs. However, published methods for quantifying severity or progression of IVD degeneration are currently limited. Mapping MRI sequences are used in humans for quantifying IVD degeneration but have rarely been applied in dogs. The objective of this prospective, method comparison study was to evaluate variable flip angle T1 mapping and multiecho T2 and T2* mapping as methods for quantifying canine lumbar IVD degeneration in twenty canine patients without clinical signs of spinal disease. Ventral and dorsal lumbar IVD widths were measured on radiographs, and lumbar IVDs were assigned a qualitative Pfirrmann grade based on standard T2‐weighted sequences. T1, T2, and T2* relaxation times of the nucleus pulposus (NP) were measured on corresponding maps using manual‐drawn ROIs. Strong intra‐ and interrater agreements were found (P < 0.01) for NP relaxation times. Radiographic IVD widths and T1, T2, and T2* mapping NP relaxation times were negatively correlated with Pfirrmann grading (P < 0.01). Significant differences in T1 NP relaxation times were found between Pfirrmann grade I and the other grades (P < 0.01). Significant differences in T2 and T2* NP relaxation times were found between grade I and the other grades and between grades II and III (P < 0.01). Findings indicated that T1, T2, and T2* MRI mapping sequences are feasible in dogs. Measured NP relaxation times were repeatable and decreased when Pfirrmann grades increased. These methods may be useful for quantifying the effects of regenerative treatment interventions in future longitudinal studies.
Reciprocal transplantations between the optic tectum and the cerebellum in adult goldfish.
Authors: Yoon M G
Published: August 2023

1. The topographic pattern of re‐established visual projections after a reciprocal transplantation between tectal and cerebellar tissues was studied in adult goldfish. 2. A rectangular tissue was dissected from the left tectum, and a similar piece from the cerebellum in the same fish. The cerebellar piece was rotated by either 180 or 0 degrees around the dorsoventral axis, and transplanted into the tectum in place of the tectal piece. This tectal tissue was likewise grafted into the cerebellum after either 180 or 0 degrees rotation in the same fish. 3. The tectal graft disappeared from the cerebellum within 2 months after surgery. The operated cerebellum showed a remarkable capability for healing its excised part. No visual responses were recorded from the cerebellum. 4. The cerebellar grafts remained in place within the operated tectum in twenty fish. In fifteen of these fish, tested 3 or 4 months after surgery, the cerebellar grafts did not give any visual responses, unlike the surrounding responsive area of the tectum. These fish showed a partial scotoma in the central area of the visual field, which corresponded to the unresponsive transplanted area of the tectum. Autoradiographic examination after intraocular injection of L‐[3H]proline showed that these cerebellar grafts did not contain any noticeable label, in contrast to the extensively labelled surrounding tectal tissues. 5. Sporadic visual responses were recorded from deep layers in the transplanted area of the tectum in five of the twenty fish at early post‐operative periods. The receptive fields of these responses were distributed in a correct retinotopic order, regardless of whether the cerebellar tissue had been rotated by either 180 or 0 degrees. Autoradiographic examination, however, revealed that these cerebellar grafts were not invaded by regenerating optic fibres. Instead, they bypassed the interposed cerebellar tissue by making detours beneath the graft on the way towards their appropriate target zones within the tectal tissue. 6. This selective avoidance of a foreign (cerebellar) tissue and the orderly reinnervation of the proper tectal tissue by regenerating optic fibres provide us with further evidence for neuronal specificity.
Extracellular space and diffusion barriers in muscle fibres from Megabalanus psittacus (Darwin).
Authors: Bacigalupo J , Luxoro M , Rissetti S , Vergara C
Published: August 2023

1. Muscle fibres from Megabalanus psittacus (Darwin) were used to measure the exchange of Na+ and Ca2+ between intracellular and extracellular compartments. 2. The size of the extracellular space was evaluated directly from electron micrographs at 6.1 +/‐ 0.5% (percentage of the fibre volume). The more conventional estimates using Na+ and 134Cs+ as space markers gave higher values, namely, 8.9 +/‐ 0.7 and 9.5 +/‐ 1.5%. 3. An average value of 9.2% was used to correct the total Na+ and K+ in the muscle fibres and to estimate the intracellular concentrations of Na+ and K+ as 39 +/‐ 4 and 202 +/‐ 11 mM respectively. 4. Na+ (and similar Ca2+) washout curves could be described using a three compartments diffusion model. The data analysed in terms of this model enabled us to estimate membrane permeabilities as PNa+ = 2.7 x 10(‐7) and PCa2+ = 2.7 x 10(‐7) cm/sec.