bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hydrogeological controls on microbial activity and habitability in the Precambrian continental crust
Authors: Song Min , Warr Oliver , Telling Jon , Sherwood Lollar Barbara
Published: March 2024

Earth's deep continental subsurface is a prime setting to study the limits of life's relationship with environmental conditions and habitability. In Precambrian crystalline rocks worldwide, deep ancient groundwaters in fracture networks are typically oligotrophic, highly saline, and locally inhabited by low‐biomass communities in which chemolithotrophic microorganisms may dominate. Periodic opening of new fractures can lead to penetration of surface water and/or migration of fracture fluids, both of which may trigger changes in subsurface microbial composition and activity. These hydrogeological processes and their impacts on subsurface communities may play a significant role in global cycles of key elements in the crust. However, to date, considerable uncertainty remains on how subsurface microbial communities may respond to these changes in hydrogeochemical conditions. To address this uncertainty, the biogeochemistry of Thompson mine (Manitoba, Canada) was investigated. Compositional and isotopic analyses of fracture waters collected here at ~1 km below land surface revealed different extents of mixing between subsurface brine and (paleo)meteoric waters. To investigate the effects this mixing may have had on microbial communities, the Most Probable Number technique was applied to test community response for a total of 13 different metabolisms. The results showed that all fracture waters were dominated by viable heterotrophic microorganisms which can utilize organic materials associated with aerobic/facultative anaerobic processes, sulfate reduction, or fermentation. Where mixing between subsurface brines and (paleo)meteoric waters occurs, the communities demonstrate higher cell densities and increased viable functional potentials, compared to the most saline sample. This study therefore highlights the connection between hydrogeologic heterogeneity and the heterogeneity of subsurface ecosystems in the crystalline rocks, and suggests that hydrogeology can have a considerable impact on the scope and scale of subsurface microbial communities on Earth and potentially beyond.
Disruption of the gastric epithelial barrier in Correa's cascade: Clinical evidence via confocal endomicroscopy
Authors: Wang Shao‐Tong , Yang Hua‐Wei , Zhang Wen‐Lin , Li Zhen , Ji Rui
Published: March 2024

Background

Gastric epithelial barrier disruption constitutes a crucial step in gastric cancer (GC). We investigated these disruptions during the Correa's cascade timeline to correlate epithelial barrier dysfunction.

Materials and Methods

This study was conducted as a single‐center, non‐randomized clinical trial in China from May 2019 to October 2022. Patients with chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG), gastric intestinal metaplasia (GIM), low‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (LGIN), high‐grade intraepithelial neoplasia (HGIN), and intramucosal carcinoma underwent probe‐based confocal laser endomicroscopy (pCLE). The pCLE scoring system was used to assess gastric epithelial barrier disruption semi‐quantitatively.

Results

We enrolled 95 patients who underwent a pCLE examination. The control group consisted of 15 individuals, and the experimental group included 17 patients with CAG, 27 patients with GIM, 20 patients with LGIN, and 16 patients with early gastric cancer (EGC). Apart from CAG, which showed no significant difference compared to the control group, a significantly higher incidence of gastric epithelial barrier damage was found in the GIM, LGIN, and EGC groups compared to the control group (Kruskal–Wallis H test = 69.295, p < 0.001). There is no difference in LGIN patients between GIM and LGIN areas, and there is no difference between the two groups compared with the EGC group. The intestinal metaplasia area in LGIN patients causes more severe gastric epithelial damage compared to that in non‐LGIN patients. Additionally, compared to control group, a significant difference (p < 0.001) was noted between individuals with Helicobacter pylori‐positive atrophic gastritis and those with IM, whereas no significant difference (p > 0.05) was observed among individuals with H. pylori‐negative atrophic gastritis.

Conclusions

The gastric epithelial barrier remains dysfunctional from the initiation of H. pylori infection to GC progression. Beyond the “point of no return,” subsequent carcinogenesis processes may be attributed to other mechanisms.
What eschatology fits our socio‐cultural conditions better? An exercise in theology ‘from below’
Authors: Jurado José Antonio , Oviedo Lluis , Lumbreras Sara
Published: March 2024

Eschatological beliefs have matured alongside both biblical composition and Christian history. This evolution can be traced using cultural evolutionary studies. The process reflects attempts to adapt to new conditions and challenges—sometimes giving place to more focused views, but also sometimes to failures and dysfunctional forms or fruitless variations. It becomes a theological duty to assess this evolution better. The key element is the reception of these eschatological beliefs, to discern what expressions of them are more helpful in encouraging Christian fidelity, coping with distress, and engaging with individual and societal challenges. In this article, we outline a research programme that links eschatology to anthropology, and that tries to analyse beliefs according to state‐of‐the‐art methods, such as evolutionary cultural studies and research on the believing process. We also contribute a case study based on the concept of hell to test the proposed approach.
A dedicated structured data set for reporting of invasive carcinoma of the breast in the setting of neoadjuvant therapy: recommendations from the International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR)
Authors: Bossuyt Veerle , Provenzano Elena , Symmans W Fraser , Webster Fleur , Allison Kimberly H , Dang Chau , Gobbi Helenice , Kulka Janina , Lakhani Sunil R , Moriya Takuya , Quinn Cecily M , Sapino Anna , Schnitt Stuart , Sibbering D Mark , Slodkowska Elzbieta , Yang Wentao , Tan Puay Hoon , Ellis Ian
Published: March 2024

Aims

The International Collaboration on Cancer Reporting (ICCR), a global alliance of major (inter‐)national pathology and cancer organisations, is an initiative aimed at providing a unified international approach to reporting cancer. ICCR recently published new data sets for the reporting of invasive breast carcinoma, surgically removed lymph nodes for breast tumours and ductal carcinoma in situ, variants of lobular carcinoma in situ and low‐grade lesions. The data set in this paper addresses the neoadjuvant setting. The aim is to promote high‐quality, standardised reporting of tumour response and residual disease after neoadjuvant treatment that can be used for subsequent management decisions for each patient.

Methods

The ICCR convened expert panels of breast pathologists with a representative surgeon and oncologist to critically review and discuss current evidence. Feedback from the international public consultation was critical in the development of this data set.

Results

The expert panel concluded that a dedicated data set was required for reporting of breast specimens post‐neoadjuvant therapy with inclusion of data elements specific to the neoadjuvant setting as core or non‐core elements. This data set proposes a practical approach for handling and reporting breast resection specimens following neoadjuvant therapy. The comments for each data element clarify terminology, discuss available evidence and highlight areas with limited evidence that need further study. This data set overlaps with, and should be used in conjunction with, the data sets for the reporting of invasive breast carcinoma and surgically removed lymph nodes from patients with breast tumours, as appropriate. Key issues specific to the neoadjuvant setting are included in this paper. The entire data set is freely available on the ICCR website.

Conclusions

High‐quality, standardised reporting of tumour response and residual disease after neoadjuvant treatment are critical for subsequent management decisions for each patient.
Comparison of the oncolytic activity of a replication‐competent and a replication‐deficient herpes simplex virus 1
Authors: Lindner Georg , Walter Annika , Magnus Clara L. , Rosenhammer Katharina , Holoborodko Bohdan , Koch Victoria , Hirsch Sarah , Grossmann Luis , Li Suqi , Knipe David M. , DeLuca Neal , Schuler‐Thurner Beatrice , Gross Stefanie , Schwertner Barbara , Toelge Martina , Rohrhofer Anette , Stöckl Sabine , Bauer Richard J. , Knoll Gertrud , Ehrenschwender Martin , Haferkamp Sebastian , Schmidt Barbara , Schuster Philipp
Published: March 2024

In 2015, the oncolytic herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV‐1) T‐VEC (talimogene laherparepvec) was approved for intratumoral injection in non‐resectable malignant melanoma. To determine whether viral replication is required for oncolytic activity, we compared replication‐deficient HSV‐1 d106S with replication‐competent T‐VEC. High infectious doses of HSV‐1 d106S killed melanoma (n = 10), head‐and‐neck squamous cell carcinoma (n = 11), and chondrosarcoma cell lines (n = 2) significantly faster than T‐VEC as measured by MTT metabolic activity, while low doses of T‐VEC were more effective over time. HSV‐1 d106S and, to a lesser extent T‐VEC, triggered caspase‐dependent early apoptosis as shown by pan‐caspase inhibition and specific induction of caspases 3/7, 8, and 9. HSV‐1 d106S induced a higher ratio of apoptosis‐inducing infected cell protein (ICP) 0 to apoptosis‐blocking ICP6 than T‐VEC. T‐VEC was oncolytic for an extended period of time as viral replication continued, which could be partially blocked by the antiviral drug aciclovir. High doses of T‐VEC, but not HSV‐1 d106S, increased interferon‐β mRNA as part of the intrinsic immune response. When markers of immunogenic cell death were assessed, ATP was released more efficiently in the context of T‐VEC than HSV‐1 d106S infection, whereas HMGB1 was induced comparatively well. Overall, the early oncolytic effect on three different tumour entities was stronger with the non‐replicative strain, while the replication‐competent virus elicited a stronger innate immune response and more pronounced immunogenic cell death.
A systematic review of the impact of compression therapy on quality of life and pain among people with a venous leg ulcer
Authors: Patton Declan , Avsar Pinar , Sayeh Aicha , Budri Aglecia , O'Connor Tom , Walsh Simone , Nugent Linda , Harkin Denis , O'Brien Niall , Cayce Jonathan , Corcoran Michael , Gaztambide Mario , Derwin Rosemarie , Moore Zena
Published: March 2024

Aim

To gain a greater understanding of how compression therapy affects quality of life, this systematic review appraised existing published studies measuring the impact of compression therapy on health quality of life (HRQoL), and pain, among people with venous leg ulcers (VLU).

Method

Five databases were searched, and two authors extracted data and appraised the quality of selected papers using the RevMan risk of bias tool. Due to heterogeneity in the types of compression and instruments used to evaluate HRQoL, meta‐analysis was not appropriate; thus, a narrative synthesis of findings was undertaken.

Results

Ten studies were included, 9 RCTs and one before‐after study. The studies employed nine different HRQoL tools to measure the impact of a variety of compression therapy systems, with or without an additional exercise programme, versus other compression systems or usual care, and the results are mixed. With the use of the Cardiff Cardiff Wound Impact Schedule, the SF‐8 and the SF‐12, study authors found no differences in QoL scores between the study groups. This is similar to one study using QUALYs (Iglesias et al., 2004). Conversely, for studies using EuroQol‐5D, VEINES‐QOL, SF‐36 and CIVIQ‐20 differences in QoL scores between the study groups were noted, in favour of the study intervention groups. Two further studies using QUALYs found results that favoured a two‐layer cohesive compression bandage and the TLCCB group, respectively. Results for the five studies that assessed pain are also mixed, with one study finding no difference between study groups, one finding that pain increased over the study period and three studies finding that pain reduced in the intervention groups. All studies were assessed as being at risk of bias in one or more domains.

Conclusion

Results were varied, reflecting uncertainty in determining the impact of compression therapy on quality of life and pain among people with a venous leg ulcer. The heterogeneity of the compression systems and the measures used to evaluate HRQoL make it a challenge to interpret the overall evidence. Further studies should strive for homogeneity in design, interventions and comparators to enhance both internal and external validity.
Relationship between fear of progression and quality of life in inflammatory bowel disease: Mediating role of health literacy and self‐care
Authors: Hu Xin , Xu Liyuan
Published: March 2024

Aims

The increasing prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease is emerging as a significant global healthcare concern due to its recurrent episodes of intestinal inflammation. This study aims to explore the relationship between fear of progression and health‐related quality of life in inflammatory bowel disease patients, investigating the sequential mediating roles of health literacy and self‐care.

Design

A cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Eligible participants diagnosed with inflammatory bowel disease were recruited through convenience sampling method at a tertiary hospital in Shenyang, China, between May 2022 and May 2023. A total of 241 participants completed the questionnaires regarding fear of progression, health literacy, self‐care and quality of life. Data analysis was conducted using SPSS 25.0 and PROCESS plug‐ins.

Results

(1) Fear of progression was found to be negatively associated with quality of life and had a directly predictive effect on quality of life. (2) Health literacy and self‐care could independently mediate the relationship between fear of progression and quality of life. (3) There was a significant chain mediating effect of health literacy and self‐care in the relationship between fear of progression and quality of life.

Conclusion

Fear of progression could not only directly predict the quality of life in inflammatory bowel disease patients but also indirectly affect their quality of life through the chain mediation of health literacy and self‐care.

Impact

This study highlights the importance of nursing staff focusing on the interplay between fear of progression, health literacy, self‐care and quality of life in caring for inflammatory bowel disease patients. Understanding the potential correlation mechanism underlying quality of life may help develop targeted care interventions to synergistically enhance health literacy and self‐care in these patients.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No public or patient contribution.
Political contributions and the auditor–client relationship
Authors: Heflin Frank , Wallace Dana
Published: March 2024

We investigate the impact of audit client political contributions on various audit attributes. We find that, despite having poorer accruals quality, clients with higher political contributions have fewer restatements, receive no more going concern qualified opinions and receive fewer reported material weaknesses. Additionally, we find that auditors earn higher fees from and have longer tenure with their politically connected clients. Our evidence is indirect, but the totality of our results is most consistent with an economic bond between auditors and their politically connected clients, whereby clients are allowed more accounting discretion and receive fewer adverse audit outcomes, and the auditor charges a persistent risk premium. We conclude that client political connections likely influence audit outcomes because of either reduced scrutiny from regulators or direct influence on auditors. We extend a growing body of research on the consequences of corporate political connections.
Prebiotics counteract the morphological and functional changes secondary to chronic cisplatin exposition in the proximal colon of mice
Authors: Biagioni Cristina , Traini Chiara , Faussone‐Pellegrini Maria Simonetta , Idrizaj Eglantina , Baccari Maria Caterina , Vannucchi Maria Giuliana
Published: March 2024

Cisplatin is an antimitotic drug able to cause acute and chronic gastrointestinal side effects. Acute side effects are attributable to mucositis while chronic ones are due to neuropathy. Cisplatin has also antibiotic properties inducing dysbiosis which enhances the inflammatory response, worsening local damage. Thus, a treatment aimed at protecting the microbiota could prevent or reduce the toxicity of chemotherapy. Furthermore, since a healthy microbiota enhances the effects of some chemotherapeutic drugs, prebiotics could also improve this drug effectiveness. We investigated whether chronic cisplatin administration determined morphological and functional alterations in mouse proximal colon and whether a diet enriched in prebiotics had protective effects. The results showed that cisplatin caused lack of weight gain, increase in kaolin intake, decrease in stool production and mucus secretion. Prebiotics prevented increases in kaolin intake, changes in stool production and mucus secretion, but had no effect on the lack of weight gain. Moreover, cisplatin determined a reduction in amplitude of spontaneous muscular contractions and of Connexin (Cx)43 expression in the interstitial cells of Cajal, changes that were partially prevented by prebiotics. In conclusion, the present study shows that daily administration of prebiotics, likely protecting the microbiota, prevents most of the colonic cisplatin‐induced alterations.
Single‐cell transcriptomic analysis in clear cell renal cell carcinoma: Deciphering the role of APP within the tumour microenvironment
Authors: Guan Bo , Li Ming , Cui Di , Shen Chen , Hao Zongyao , Li Xiaowei
Published: March 2024

Clear cell renal cell carcinoma (ccRCC) represents a significant challenge in oncology, primarily due to its resistance to conventional therapies. Understanding the tumour microenvironment (TME) is crucial for developing new treatment strategies. This study focuses on the role of amyloid precursor protein (APP) in tumour‐associated macrophages (TAMs) within the ccRCC TME, exploring its potential as a prognostic biomarker. Basing TAM‐related genes, the prognostic model was important to constructed. Employing advanced single‐cell transcriptomic analysis, this research dissects the TME of ccRCC at an unprecedented cellular resolution. By isolating and examining the gene expression profiles of individual cells, particularly focusing on TAMs, the study investigates the expression levels of APP and their association with the clinical outcomes of ccRCC patients. The analysis reveals a significant correlation between the expression of APP in TAMs and patient prognosis in ccRCC. Patients with higher APP expression in TAMs showed differing clinical outcomes compared to those with lower expression. This finding suggests that APP could serve as a novel prognostic biomarker for ccRCC, providing insights into the disease progression and potential therapeutic targets. This study underscores the importance of single‐cell transcriptomics in understanding the complex dynamics of the TME in ccRCC. The correlation between APP expression in TAMs and patient prognosis highlights APP as a potential prognostic biomarker. However, further research is needed to validate these findings and explore the regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic implications of APP in ccRCC.
Make or buy your artificial intelligence? Complementarities in technology sourcing
Authors: Hoffreumon Charles , Forman Chris , van Zeebroeck Nicolas
Published: March 2024

We investigate firm decisions to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technology and how adoption is sourced: by purchasing commercial readymade software, by developing or customizing solutions in‐house, or both. Using a cross‐sectional data set of 3143 firms from across Europe, we examine the extent to which sourcing strategies exhibit complementarity or substitution. We find that adoption of AI using readymade software as a sourcing strategy is now increasingly commonplace, but differs across industrial sectors. Further, complementarities between sourcing strategies are common across sectors, though with some differences in strength and some exceptions. Our results show that sourcing strategies play an important role in shaping AI adoption decisions among firms.
Focus on senescence: Clinical significance and practical applications
Authors: Boccardi Virginia , Orr Miranda Ethel , Polidori M. Cristina , Ruggiero Carmelinda , Mecocci Patrizia
Published: March 2024

The older population is increasing worldwide, and life expectancy is continuously rising, predominantly thanks to medical and technological progress. Healthspan refers to the number of years an individual can live in good health. From a gerontological viewpoint, the mission is to extend the life spent in good health, promoting well‐being and minimizing the impact of aging‐related diseases to slow the aging process. Biologically, aging is a malleable process characterized by an intra‐ and inter‐individual heterogeneous and dynamic balance between accumulating damage and repair mechanisms. Cellular senescence is a key component of this process, with senescent cells accumulating in different tissues and organs, leading to aging and age‐related disease susceptibility over time. Removing senescent cells from the body or slowing down the burden rate has been proposed as an efficient way to reduce age‐dependent deterioration. In animal models, senotherapeutic molecules can extend life expectancy and lifespan by either senolytic or senomorphic activity. Much research shows that dietary and physical activity‐driven lifestyle interventions protect against senescence. This narrative review aims to summarize the current knowledge on targeting senescent cells to reduce the risk of age‐related disease in animal models and their translational potential for humans. We focused on studies that have examined the potential role of senotherapeutics in slowing the aging process and modifying age‐related disease burdens. The review concludes with a general discussion of the mechanisms underlying this unique trajectory and its implications for future research.
Behavioural therapy for shift work disorder improves shift workers' sleep, sleepiness and mental health: A pilot randomised control trial
Authors: Vallières Annie , Pappathomas Alric , Garnier Séverine de Billy , Mérette Chantal , Carrier Julie , Paquette Tyna , Bastien Célyne H.
Published: March 2024

The present study evaluates the efficacy of behavioural therapy adapted for shift work disorder with a randomised control design in a healthcare population. Forty‐three night shift workers (m. age: 34 years; 77% women) experiencing shift work disorder were randomised to either the behavioural therapy for shift work disorder (BT‐SWD) or a waiting‐list control group offered after the waiting period. Participants completed questionnaires on insomnia, sleepiness and mental health pre‐ and post‐treatment, pre‐ and post‐waiting, and at follow‐up, and a sleep diary. As night shift workers alternate between sleeping during the day after their night shifts and transitioning to nighttime sleep on days off, insomnia severity and sleep variables were analysed for daytime and nighttime sleep. The BT‐SWD involved sleep restriction therapy, stimulus control and fixed sleep periods in the dark. Statistical analyses were performed under intent‐to‐treat and per‐protocol approaches. Repeated‐measures two‐way ANCOVA analysis, controlling for age, sex and pre‐treatment daytime total sleep time, was performed with Bonferroni corrections, and between‐group effect sizes computed. Fourteen participants dropped out after randomisation. Under the intent‐to‐treat analysis, BT‐SWD participants had a significant greater decrease in daytime insomnia severity and an increase in daytime total sleep time at post‐treatment than the control group, with large between‐group effect sizes (−1.25 and 0.89). These corresponding results were also significant with large effect sizes under the per‐protocol analysis. Sleepiness, anxiety and depression levels improved at post‐treatment and maintained at follow‐up when the BT‐SWD treated controls were added to the BT‐SWD group. The behavioural therapy for shift work disorder can be used to improve the sleep and mental health of healthcare night workers.
Public goods and diversity in democracies and non‐democracies
Authors: Raabe Roxanne , Sander Christian J. , Schneider Andrea
Published: March 2024

This paper analyzes how ethnic diversity affects the provision of public goods in democratic and non‐democratic societies when political parties compete for voter support by offering a mix of private and public goods. Our model implies that increasing diversity that leads to more heterogeneous preferences for public goods decreases the provision of public goods in democracies, where political power is distributed equally among citizens, while there is a weaker or no effect in non‐democracies, where political power is distributed unequally among citizens. When measuring diversity by ethnic fractionalization and public good provision by either levels of government expenses, expenditures on health, or life expectancy, we indeed observe a negative association between diversity and the provision of public goods in democracies but no or only a weak association in non‐democracies.
Population genomics of flat‐tailed horned lizards (Phrynosoma mcallii) informs conservation and management across a fragmented Colorado Desert landscape
Authors: Gottscho Andrew D. , Mulcahy Daniel G. , Leaché Adam D. , de Queiroz Kevin , Lovich Robert E.
Published: March 2024

Phrynosoma mcallii (flat‐tailed horned lizards) is a species of conservation concern in the Colorado Desert of the United States and Mexico. We analysed ddRADseq data from 45 lizards to estimate population structure, infer phylogeny, identify migration barriers, map genetic diversity hotspots, and model demography. We identified the Colorado River as the main geographic feature contributing to population structure, with the populations west of this barrier further subdivided by the Salton Sea. Phylogenetic analysis confirms that northwestern populations are nested within southeastern populations. The best‐fit demographic model indicates Pleistocene divergence across the Colorado River, with significant bidirectional gene flow, and a severe Holocene population bottleneck. These patterns suggest that management strategies should focus on maintaining genetic diversity on both sides of the Colorado River and the Salton Sea. We recommend additional lands in the United States and Mexico that should be considered for similar conservation goals as those in the Rangewide Management Strategy. We also recommend periodic rangewide genomic sampling to monitor ongoing attrition of diversity, hybridization, and changing structure due to habitat fragmentation, climate change, and other long‐term impacts.
Cost‐effectiveness of sodium zirconium cyclosilicate for advanced chronic kidney patients in Singapore
Authors: Chay Junxing , Choo Jason C. J. , Finkelstein Eric A.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Hyperkalaemia (HK) is prevalent among patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) and chronic heart failure, especially if they are treated with renin‐angiotensin‐aldosterone system inhibitors (RAASi). This study evaluated the cost‐effectiveness of a newly developed anti‐HK therapy, sodium zirconium cyclosilicate (SZC), to the current standard of care for treating HK in advanced CKD patients from the Singapore health system perspective.

Methods

We adapted a global microsimulation model to simulate individual patients' potassium level trajectories with baseline potassium ≥5.5 mmol/L, CKD progression, changes in treatment, and other fatal and non‐fatal events. Effectiveness data was derived from ZS‐004 and ZS‐005 trials. Model parameters were localised using CKD patients' administrative and medical records at the Singapore General Hospital Department of Renal Medicine. We estimated the lifetime cost and quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) of each HK treatment, and the incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio of SZC.

Results

SZC demonstrated cost‐effectiveness with an incremental cost‐effectiveness ratsio of SGD 45 068 per QALY over a lifetime horizon, below the willingness‐to‐pay threshold of SGD 90 000 per QALY. Notably, SZC proved most cost‐effective for patients with less severe CKD who were concurrently using RAASi. Sensitivity analyses confirmed the robustness of the findings, accounting for alternative parameter values and statistical uncertainty.

Conclusion

This study establishes the cost‐effectiveness of SZC as a treatment for HK, highlighting its potential to mitigate the risk of hyperkalaemia and optimise RAASi therapy. These findings emphasise the value of integrating SZC into the Singapore health system for improved patient outcomes and resource allocation.
Mandibular second molar extraction: A retrospective cohort study of spontaneous occlusal changes in adolescent patients
Authors: Færøvig Lucete Fernandes , Pandis Nikolaos , Johal Ama , Vandevska‐Radunovic Vaska
Published: March 2024

Objectives

Evaluate long‐term spontaneous occlusal changes following L7 extraction in adolescent patients.

Materials and Methods

Study models of 144 participants (63 males, 81 females) retrospectively assessed prior to L7 extraction (9–16 years old; T1) and following L8 eruption (14–25 years old; T2). All received upper fixed appliances. A sub‐group (n = 86) received no lower fixed appliances and acted as controls. Occlusal changes were compared between treatment (lower fixed appliance) and control (no lower fixed appliance) groups using PAR index. At T2, L8 occlusal outcome was assessed using ABO grading system.

Results

Mean follow‐up period 6 (SD 2) years. At T1, lower scores observed in control group for Lower Anterior (P < .001), Midline (P = .033) and Lateral Segments (P = .040) components. At T2, lower scores continued being observed in control group for Midline (P < .001) and Lateral segment (P = .019) components. Higher decrease in Lower Anterior PAR scores observed in treatment group (<.001) with comparable scores between groups at T2 (P = .057). Similar PAR score changes between groups for Lateral Segments, Overjet and Overbite components. At T2, no significant difference observed in Total PAR score reduction between control (83%) and treatment (82%) groups. Good‐to‐acceptable occlusal outcome of the L8 observed in 81.55% of cases at T2 with no difference between groups.

Conclusion

In growing patients with mild mandibular crowding, extraction of L7 followed by upper fixed appliance therapy, leads to favourable occlusal changes over a 6‐year follow‐up period, with or without lower fixed appliance therapy, being an alternative extraction protocol where lower fixed appliance therapy is not recommended.
Four‐month‐old with severe PIK3CA‐related overgrowth spectrum disorder successfully treated with alpelisb
Authors: Cossio María‐Laura , Rodríguez Josefina , Flores Juan Carlos , De Barbieri Florencia , Flores Álvaro , Marín José , Florin Carla , Cuevas Francisco , Gutiérrez Monserrat
Published: March 2024

PIK3CA‐related overgrowth spectrum (PROS) encompasses different clinical entities caused by somatic activating mutations in PIK3CA. Among PROS, CLOVES syndrome represents a severe phenotype with poor survival rate. We present the case of a 4‐month‐old girl with CLOVES syndrome successfully treated with alpelisib, a PIKC3A inhibitor.
Application of TNB in dual photo‐controlled release of phenamacril, imidacloprid, and imidacloprid synergist
Authors: Yin Qi , Fu Wen , Hu Xinyue , Xu Zhiping , Li Zhong , Shao Xusheng
Published: March 2024

Pesticides can improve crops' yield and quality, but unreasonable applications of pesticides lead to waste of pesticides which are further accumulated in the environment and threaten human health. Developing the release of controlled drugs can improve the utilization rate of pesticides. Among these methods, light‐controlled release is a new technology of controlled release, which can realize spatiotemporal delivery of drugs by light. Four compounds, named Imidacloprid‐Thioacetal o‐nitrobenzyl‐Phenamacril (IMI‐TNB‐PHE), Imidacloprid‐Thioacetal o‐nitrobenzyl‐ Imidacloprid (IMI‐TNB‐IMI), Phenamacril‐Thioacetal o‐nitrobenzyl‐Phenamacril (PHE‐TNB‐PHE), and Imidacloprid‐Thioacetal o‐nitrobenzyl‐Imidacloprid Synergist (IMI‐TNB‐IMISYN), were designed and synthesized by connecting thioacetal o‐nitrobenzyl (TNB) with pesticides TNB displaying simple and efficient optical properties in this work. Dual photo‐controlled release of pesticides including two molecules of IMI or PHE, both IMI and PHE, as well as IMI and IMISYN were, respectively, studied in this paper. Insecticidal/fungicidal activities of the photosensitive pesticides showed 2–4 times increments if they were exposed to light. In addition, a synergistic effect was observed after the light‐controlled release of IMI‐TNB‐IMISYN, which was consistent with the effect of IMISYN. The results demonstrated whether dual photo‐controlled release of the same or different pesticide molecules could be achieved with a TNB linker with spatiotemporal precision. We envisioned that TNB will be an innovative photosensitive protective group for light‐dependent application of agrochemicals in the future.
Frontline employees' responses to citizens' communication of administrative burdens
Authors: Halling Aske , Petersen Niels Bjørn Grund
Published: March 2024

The literature on administrative burdens demonstrates that citizens may experience different kinds of administrative burdens when interacting with the state. However, we know little about whether citizens' communication of these experiences affects how frontline employees implement compliance demands. Building on the street‐level bureaucracy and administrative burden literature, we hypothesize that citizens' communication of direct and indirect psychological costs affects frontline employees' inclination to accommodate citizens. Furthermore, we expect this effect to be stronger for members of the ethnic majority than for ethnic minority members. We test these expectations using a preregistered survey experiment on a sample of 1048 Danish public caseworkers from 32 employment agencies. Results show that frontline employees are indeed more willing to reduce demands and help citizens that communicate their experiences of direct and indirect psychological costs. Further, we find some evidence that frontline employees are more responsive to citizens from the ethnic majority.
Reply: Up‐to‐date data on NightLase laser treatment of snoring for discussion
Authors: Sarkis Leba M. , Jones Andrew C. , Ng Andrew , Pantin Christopher , Appleton Sarah L. , MacKay Stuart G.
Published: March 2024

See related Letter
Horizontal necklines correction with absorbable braided polydioxanone threads: Case series
Authors: Yi Kyu‐Ho , Kim Soo‐Bin , Chua Deborah , Stefanelli Matthieu Beustes , Alfertshofer Michael , Vachiramon Vasanop
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The prevalence of horizontal neck lines as a cosmetic concern is widely acknowledged, yet the available treatment options are limited, and no studies have investigated the use of polydioxanone‐barbed threads. These threads, characterized by a finely braided structure, function as a scaffold to attract regenerative factors and facilitate the migration and proliferation of cells. This study aims to evaluate the outcomes of concurrent application of braided polydioxanone‐barbed threads for addressing horizontal neck wrinkles.

Methodology

A retrospective case series involving four female participants (aged 41, 43, 45, and 46) treated with polydioxanone‐barbed threads for horizontal neck wrinkles between January 2023 and July 2023 was conducted. Adult patients were assessed at an 8‐week follow‐up, revealing a significant reduction in wrinkle intensity based on the Horizontal Neck Wrinkle Severity Scale.

Results

The analysis of horizontal neck lines demonstrated a notable decrease in wrinkle intensity according to the Horizontal Neck Wrinkle Severity Scale at the 8‐week mark, and this improvement maintained statistical significance. Both patient Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) scores (90%–100%) and physician GAIS scores (100%) were rated as excellent.

Conclusion

The subdermal application of polydioxanone‐barbed threads for horizontal neck lines proves to be a secure and efficacious approach for treating horizontal neck wrinkles, with no observed Tyndall effect. This technique shows promise for rejuvenating the skin in the horizontal neckline region.
Winners and losers in U.S.–China trade disputes: A dynamic compositional analysis of foreign direct investment
Authors: Jung Yoo Sun , Park Yohan
Published: March 2024

Background

The trade conflicts between the United States and China have significantly disrupted global trade and economic growth. In today's globalized economy where the production of goods and services spans across multiple nations, these disputes have far‐reaching consequences that extend beyond the involved parties and impact the broader global economy.

Objective

We examine the effects of the U.S.‐China trade disputes on multinational investment patterns in China and Southeast Asia.

Methods

Using a dynamic compositional approach, we analyze data on firm‐level greenfield foreign direct investment.

Results

We observe European firms increasing their investments in China to enhance market penetration, while American firms are withdrawing, redirecting their focus toward Southeast Asia to mitigate dependence on the Chinese market.

Conclusion

This shift highlights broader international business strategy trends amid geopolitical and economic changes. The results indicate significant transformations in global supply chains, shedding light on the extensive effects of U.S.–China trade tensions on global economic equilibrium and how these tensions are reshaping international investment and supply chain dynamics.
The role of T‐type calcium channels in elderly human vascular function: A pilot randomized controlled trial
Authors: Iepsen Ulrik Winning , Hjortdal Andreas R. , Thuesen Anne D. , Finsen Stine H. , Hansen Pernille B. L. , Mortensen Stefan P.
Published: March 2024

Endothelial dysfunction develops with age and may precede cardiovascular disease. Animal data suggest that T‐type calcium channels play an important role in endothelial function, but data from humans are lacking. This study included 15 healthy, sedentary, elderly males for a double blinded, randomized controlled trial. For 8 weeks, they were given 40 mg/day of either efonidipine (L‐ and T‐type calcium channel blocker (CCB)) or nifedipine (L‐type CCB). Vascular function was evaluated by graded femoral arterial infusions of acetylcholine (ACh; endothelium‐dependent vasodilator) and sodium nitroprusside (endothelium‐independent vasodilator) both with and without co‐infusion of N‐acetylcysteine (NAC; antioxidant). We measured leg blood flow and mean arterial pressure and calculated leg vascular conductance to evaluate the leg vascular responses. Despite no significant change in blood pressure in either group, we observed higher leg blood flow responses (Δ 0.43 ± 0.45 l/min, P = 0.006) and leg vascular conductance (Δ 5.38 ± 5.67 ml/min/mmHg, P = 0.005) to intra‐arterial ACh after efonidipine, whereas there was no change in the nifedipine group, and no differences between groups. We found no upregulation of endothelial nitric oxide synthase in vastus lateralis muscle biopsies within or between groups. Smooth muscle cell responsiveness was unaltered by efonidipine or nifedipine. Intravenous co‐infusion of NAC did not affect endothelium‐dependent vasodilatation in either of the CCB groups. These results suggest that 8 weeks’ inhibition of T‐ and L‐type calcium channels augments endothelium‐dependent vasodilatory function in healthy elderly males. Further studies are required to elucidate if T‐type calcium channel inhibition can counteract endothelial dysfunction.
On-site infrasound calibration to correct wave parameter estimation
Authors: Kristoffersen S. K. , Le Pichon A. , Schwardt M. , Vincent P. , Doury B. , Larsonnier F. , Pilger C.
Published: March 2024

The International Monitoring System (IMS) has been established as part of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty to monitor nuclear testing and is comprised of infrasound, hydroacoustic, seismic, and radionuclide stations; it is also used more widely by the scientific community for scientific and civilian applications. For the infrasound stations, on-site calibration provides an accurate measure of the sensor (microbarometer + wind-noise reduction system) frequency response, used to monitor that the sensor response remains within tolerance of the baseline established when the station is certified. However, this on-site calibration can also be used when there are issues/defects with the sensors. As a result, the on-site calibration can be used to correct wave parameter estimations and increase the detection capability of the station. Examples using an experimental sensor at the IMS station IS26 (Germany) and IS47 (South Africa) demonstrate that errors of several degrees and tens of m/s can be introduced, under certain conditions, for the back azimuth and trace velocity, respectively. By using the on-site calibration, these errors are removed, and the correct back azimuth, trace velocity and amplitude are retrieved. This can be especially useful for the identification of infrasound signals, and the localization of their sources.
Trans-dimensional inversion for seafloor properties for three mud depocenters on the New England shelf under dynamical oceanographic conditions
Authors: Bonnel Julien , Dosso Stan E. , Hodgkiss William S. , Ballard Megan S. , Garcia Dante D. , Lee Kevin M. , McNeese Andrew R. , Wilson Preston S.
Published: March 2024

This paper presents inversion results for three datasets collected on three spatially separated mud depocenters (hereafter called mud ponds) during the 2022 Seabed Characterization Experiment (SBCEX). The data considered here represent modal time-frequency (TF) dispersion as estimated from a single hydrophone. Inversion is performed using a trans-dimensional (trans-D) Bayesian inference method that jointly estimates water-column and seabed properties along with associated uncertainties. This enables successful estimation of the seafloor properties, consistent with in situ acoustic core measurements, even when the water column is dynamical and mostly unknown. A quantitative analysis is performed to (1) compare results with previous modal TF trans-D studies for one mud pond but under different oceanographic condition, and (2) inter-compare the new SBCEX22 results for the three mud ponds. Overall, the estimated mud geoacoustic properties show no significant temporal variability. Further, no significant spatial variability is found between two of the mud ponds while the estimated geoacoustic properties of the third are different. Two hypotheses, considered to be equally likely, are explored to explain this apparent spatial variability: it may be the result of actual differences in the mud properties, or the mud properties may be similar but the inversion results are driven by difference in data information content.
Transformers enable accurate prediction of acute and chronic chemical toxicity in aquatic organisms
Authors: Gustavsson Mikael , Käll Styrbjörn , Svedberg Patrik , Inda-Diaz Juan S. , Molander Sverker , Coria Jessica , Backhaus Thomas , Kristiansson Erik
Published: March 2024

Environmental hazard assessments are reliant on toxicity data that cover multiple organism groups. Generating experimental toxicity data is, however, resource-intensive and time-consuming. Computational methods are fast and cost-efficient alternatives, but the low accuracy and narrow applicability domains have made their adaptation slow. Here, we present a AI-based model for predicting chemical toxicity. The model uses transformers to capture toxicity-specific features directly from the chemical structures and deep neural networks to predict effect concentrations. The model showed high predictive performance for all tested organism groups—algae, aquatic invertebrates and fish—and has, in comparison to commonly used QSAR methods, a larger applicability domain and a considerably lower error. When the model was trained on data with multiple effect concentrations (EC
50
/EC
10
), the performance was further improved. We conclude that deep learning and transformers have the potential to markedly advance computational prediction of chemical toxicity.
Single-cell nanobiopsy enables multigenerational longitudinal transcriptomics of cancer cells
Authors: Marcuccio Fabio , Chau Chalmers C. , Tanner Georgette , Elpidorou Marilena , Finetti Martina A. , Ajaib Shoaib , Taylor Morag , Lascelles Carolina , Carr Ian , Macaulay Iain , Stead Lucy F. , Actis Paolo
Published: March 2024

Single-cell RNA sequencing has revolutionized our understanding of cellular heterogeneity, but routine methods require cell lysis and fail to probe the dynamic trajectories responsible for cellular state transitions, which can only be inferred. Here, we present a nanobiopsy platform that enables the injection of exogenous molecules and multigenerational longitudinal cytoplasmic sampling from a single cell and its progeny. The technique is based on scanning ion conductance microscopy (SICM) and, as a proof of concept, was applied to longitudinally profile the transcriptome of single glioblastoma (GBM) brain tumor cells in vitro over 72 hours. The GBM cells were biopsied before and after exposure to chemotherapy and radiotherapy, and our results suggest that treatment either induces or selects for more transcriptionally stable cells. We envision the nanobiopsy will contribute to transforming standard single-cell transcriptomics from a static analysis into a dynamic assay.
Why soft contacts are stickier when breaking than when making them
Authors: Sanner Antoine , Kumar Nityanshu , Dhinojwala Ali , Jacobs Tevis D. B. , Pastewka Lars
Published: March 2024

Soft solids are sticky. They attract each other and spontaneously form a large area of contact. Their force of attraction is higher when separating than when forming contact, a phenomenon known as adhesion hysteresis. The common explanation for this hysteresis is viscoelastic energy dissipation or contact aging. Here, we use experiments and simulations to show that it emerges even for perfectly elastic solids. Pinning by surface roughness triggers the stick-slip motion of the contact line, dissipating energy. We derive a simple and general parameter-free equation that quantitatively describes contact formation in the presence of roughness. Our results highlight the crucial role of surface roughness and present a fundamental shift in our understanding of soft adhesion.