bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Language, perceived warmth, and investors' reactions to audit committee reports
Authors: Tan Hun‐Tong , Xu Tu , Yu Yao
Published: February 2023

An audit committee (AC) report is the primary channel through which investors learn about the responsibilities and activities of an AC. AC members may use personal language (“we”) or impersonal language (“the audit committee”) in an AC report. Psychology research suggests that personal (vs. impersonal) language signals that the language user has greater warmth and sense of communion (i.e., being part of a larger group). Applying this theory, we predict that an AC's use of personal (vs. impersonal) language leads investors to perceive a warmer and more communal AC, and that an AC's perceived warmth/communion (cued by personal language) positively impacts investor judgments. We further posit that the positive effect of personal language is stronger when AC compensation is largely short term than long term. This is because investors need more assurance of AC oversight effectiveness when AC compensation is short term, which makes investors rely more on heuristic cues such as AC language to make judgments. Consistent with this prediction, we find that when AC compensation is largely short term, nonprofessional investors (proxied by Master of Business Administration students) react more positively to an AC's use of personal language than impersonal language. The effect of AC language is insignificant when AC compensation is largely long term, as the long‐term compensation structure already provides assurance about the AC's oversight effectiveness, and thus, investors rely less on heuristic cues. Furthermore, we find that the perceived warmth of AC members explains the effect of AC language. Finally, our interviews with nonprofessional investors corroborate some of our main findings and validate their practice implications.
Effect of midazolam in autism spectrum disorder: A retrospective observational analysis
Authors: Hanamoto Hiroshi , Hirose Yohsuke , Toyama Midori , Yokoe Chizuko , Oyamaguchi Aiko , Niwa Hitoshi
Published: February 2023

Background

While midazolam is commonly used as premedication for uncooperative patients, its effects are difficult to predict in patients with autism spectrum disorder for whom abnormalities in gamma‐aminobutyric acid have been reported. This study aimed to investigate the influence of autism spectrum disorder on the effect of midazolam when used as premedication.

Methods

This retrospective observational study was performed between April 2017 and August 2018. Before inducing general anesthesia with sevoflurane for dental treatment, 390 uncooperative patients received premedication with midazolam. Ordinal logistic regression analysis was performed with the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation score 30 min after premedication as the objective variable. Age, sex, American Society of Anesthesiologists physical status class, premedication route, dose per body weight, presence of specific disorders (autism spectrum disorder, intellectual disability, epilepsy, cerebral palsy, and other psychiatric disorders), and regular benzodiazepine or non‐benzodiazepine psychotropic administration were included as explanatory variables. Kendall's rank correlation coefficient was used to assess the correlation between the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation score and cooperation level (1, obvious negative response; 2, negative response; 3, positive reaction; 4, obvious positive reaction) during admission and inhalation induction. All data were extracted from anesthesia and medical records.

Results

Age (odds ratio 1.437 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.213–1.708], P < .001), autism spectrum disorder (1.318 [1.079–1.612], P = .007), benzodiazepine medication (0.574 [0.396–0.827], P = .002), and intramuscular route (1.478 [1.137–1.924], P = .004) were significantly associated with the Observer's Assessment of Alertness/Sedation score, while the score was negatively associated with cooperation levels during admission (τ = −0.714, P < .001) and inhalation induction (τ = −0.606, P < .001).

Conclusions

Patients with autism spectrum disorder may be susceptible to premedication with midazolam; however, regular benzodiazepine administration may reduce the effect.
New range record for the African brush‐tailed porcupine, Atherurus africanus, in southeastern Senegal and northern Guinea
Authors: Mirghani Nadia , Dotras Laia , Llana Manuel , Barciela Amanda , Hernandez‐Aguilar R. Adriana , Galbany Jordi
Published: February 2023

The African brush‐tailed porcupine (Atherurus africanus) is a rodent common from West to East Africa. The last IUCN assessment stated that its presence is uncertain in Senegal. Here, we report the presence of the African brush‐tailed porcupine in the Dindefelo Community Nature Reserve (Dindefelo), in southeastern Senegal, and across the border in northern Guinea. From 2017 to 2022, we obtained 58 camera trap videos from seven different locations in Dindefelo and 86 camera trap videos from Sahoro cave, in Guinea, showing Atherurus africanus. It is likely that this species has always been present in both areas, but it may have gone undetected because it is nocturnal and may be less abundant.
Normative information can induce biased choice toward delayed larger rewards in adulthood
Authors: Goto Takayuki
Published: February 2023

Previous research has revealed that observing or learning about others' choices can change individuals' choice of delayed rewards. To extend these findings, the present research investigated whether normative information can change the choice for delayed rewards in adulthood. Participants completed a questionnaire consisting of 27 intertemporal conflicts after they had read a description about normative information of others' delayed‐reward choices. In Study 1, the results revealed that choosing bias toward delayed larger rewards was higher in those who read the description where the majority chose delayed larger rewards than those who read the opposite description. In Study 2, we successfully replicated the main results of Study 1. Furthermore, the results of Study 2 showed that the effect of social norms decreased in 1 week. The present research provides important insights into how self‐control is influenced by social norms.
C5aR1 activation in mice controls inflammatory eosinophil recruitment and functions in allergic asthma
Authors: Wiese Anna V. , Duhn Jannis , Korkmaz Rabia Ülkü , Quell Katharina M. , Osman Ibrahim , Ender Fanny , Schröder Torsten , Lewkowich Ian , Hogan Simon , Huber‐Lang Markus , Gumprecht Franziska , König Peter , Köhl Jörg , Laumonnier Yves
Published: February 2023

Background

Pulmonary eosinophils comprise at least two distinct populations of resident eosinophils (rEOS) and inflammatory eosinophils (iEOS), the latter recruited in response to pulmonary inflammation. Here, we determined the impact of complement activation on rEOS and iEOS trafficking and function in two models of pulmonary inflammation.

Methods

BALB/c wild‐type and C5ar1−/− mice were exposed to different allergens or IL‐33. Eosinophil populations in the airways, lung, or mediastinal lymph nodes (mLN) were characterized by FACS or immunohistochemistry. rEOS and iEOS functions were determined in vivo and in vitro.

Results

HDM and IL‐33 exposure induced a strong accumulation of iEOS but not rEOS in the airways, lungs, and mLNs. rEOS and iEOS expressed C3/C5 and C5aR1, which were significantly higher in iEOS. Initial pulmonary trafficking of iEOS was markedly reduced in C5ar1−/− mice and associated with less IL‐5 production from ILC2 cells. Functionally, adoptively transferred pulmonary iEOS from WT but not from C5ar1−/− mice‐induced airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR), which was associated with significantly reduced C5ar1−/− iEOS degranulation. Pulmonary iEOS but not rEOS were frequently associated with T cells in lung tissue. After HDM or IL‐33 exposure, iEOS but not rEOS were found in mLNs, which were significantly reduced in C5ar1−/− mice. C5ar1−/− iEOS expressed less costimulatory molecules, associated with a decreased potency to drive antigen‐specific T cell proliferation and differentiation into memory T cells.

Conclusions

We uncovered novel roles for C5aR1 in iEOS trafficking and activation, which affects key aspects of allergic inflammation such as AHR, ILC2, and T cell activation.
Bargaining and interdependence: Common parent‐offspring conflict resolution strategies among Chon Chuuk and their implications for suicidal behavior
Authors: Syme Kristen L. , Hagen Edward H.
Published: February 2023

The anthropology of Pacific cultures spotlights social conflict as a proximate cause of suicide. Ethnographic accounts suggest that suicidal behaviors are high‐cost conflict‐resolution strategies. We investigate parent‐child conflicts and the strategies adolescents and young adults use to resolve them, using concepts from human behavioral ecology to interpret results from in‐depth, semi‐structured interviews with 58 Chon Chuuk participants. One strategy for resolving conflicts in one's favor is to impose costs through the threat or use of violence, but an alternative strategy for those who lack social power or formidability involves social withdrawal, or withholding cooperation, until the interdependent parties reach an agreement. The Chuukese termamwunumwunrefers to a spectrum of social withdrawal, including avoidance, running away, and suicide. Strategies involving withholding cooperation were the most reported child behavioral response. As predicted, low‐cost strategies, such as negotiation, were associated with nonsevere conflicts (e.g., playing with friends), whereas high‐cost withholding cooperation, such as running away, was associated with severe conflicts (e.g., labor exploitation). Importantly, withholding cooperation was often, but not always, associated with outcomes favoring the child. We propose that withholding cooperation is a culturally ubiquitous strategy, ranging from avoidance to suicidality, used by the powerless to achieve more favorable outcomes. [adolescence, parent‐offspring conflict, suicide, Micronesia]
Survival of lateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty at short‐, mid‐, and long‐term follow‐up: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wang Zhenwei , Ni Jie , Mao Zimu , Yu Meng , Li Hongchuan , Chen Guoqiang , Wang Yang , Yao Qi
Published: February 2023

Background

The infrequency of lateral unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA) has led to a lack of understanding of its survival. This study aimed to systematically evaluate the survivorship results of lateral UKA at different follow‐ups based on available literature.

Methods

Five databases were searched for eligible studies. Pooled survivorships with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) at 3, 5, 10, 15, and 20 years after lateral UKA were estimated using a random‐effect model. Subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed.

Results

A total of 26 studies involving 5470 lateral UKAs were included. Survivorships of lateral UKA at 3‐, 5‐, 10‐, 15‐, and 20‐year follow‐ups were 96% (95% CI: 95–98%, I2: 77.5%), 94% (95% CI: 93–96%, I2: 70.8%), 88% (95% CI: 84–91%, I2: 70.8%), 85% (95% CI: 79–91%, I2: 70.8%), and 78% (95% CI: 71–85%, I2: 54.2%), respectively. Subgroup analyses found that bearing type, the number of surgeons, and year of publication might be associated with implant survival outcomes.

Conclusion

Lateral UKA is an effective procedure with excellent survivorships at short‐, mid‐, and long‐term follow‐ups. Results suggest a single‐surgeon lateral UKA using fixed‐bearing. Additional well‐designed studies are needed to elucidate the current findings.
Prognostic effect of sarcopenia in patients undergoing laparoscopic rectal cancer resection
Authors: Portale Giuseppe , Zuin Matteo , Spolverato Ylenia Camilla , Bartolotta Patrizia , Gregori Dario , Rettore Carlo , Cancian Luca , Morabito Alberto , Sava Teodoro , Fiscon Valentino
Published: February 2023

Background

The importance of body composition, in particular skeletal muscle mass, as risk factor affecting survival of cancer patients has recently gained increasing attention. The relationship between sarcopenia and oncological outcomes has become a topic of research in particular in patients with gastrointestinal cancer. However, there are few studies addressing this issue in colorectal cancer, and even less specifically focused on rectal cancer, in particular in Western countries. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic relevance of preoperative skeletal mass index (SMI) on long‐term outcomes in patients undergoing laparoscopic curative resection for rectal cancer.

Methods

SMI data and clinicopathological characteristics of rectal cancer patients in a 15‐year period (June 2005–December 2020) were evaluated; patients with metastatic disease at surgery were excluded; overall and disease‐free survival as well as recurrence were evaluated.

Results

Hundred and sixty‐five patients were included in the study. Sarcopenia was identified in 30 (18%) patients. Multivariate analysis identified sarcopenia (HR = 3.28, CI = 1.33–8.11, P = 0.015), along with age (HR = 1.06, CI = 1.02–1.10, P = 0.002) and stage III (HR = 2.63, CI = 1.13–6.08, P < 0.03) as independent risk factors for overall survival.

Conclusion

Long‐term results of rectal cancer patients undergoing curative resection are affected by their preoperative skeletal muscle status. Larger studies including comprehensive data on muscle strength along with SMI are awaited to confirm these results on both Eastern and Western rectal cancer patient populations before strategies to reverse muscle depletion can be extensively applied.
Transoral approach to accessory parotid tumours: case series and literature review
Authors: Tescher Anne , Dixon Benjamin
Published: February 2023

Accessory parotid tumours are rare, accounting for less than 10% of parotid neoplasms. Although similar tumours affect both the accessory parotid and parotid, accessory parotid tumours are associated with higher rates of malignancy. Surgery is first line management. Standard surgical management involves a similar approach to superficial parotidectomy, despite the anterior location of these lesions. This approach requires extensive subcutaneous access and facial nerve dissection and therefore, poses significant risk. It can also result in poor cosmetic result due to scarring and Frey's Syndrome. On the contrary, a transoral approach to reduces the risk of cosmetic deformity, reduces recovery time and does not increase risk to the facial nerve. We present a case series of patients with accessory parotid masses, which have been successfully excised transoral and without endoscopic assistance.
Risk of infection from glucocorticoid and methotrexate interaction in patients with rheumatoid arthritis using biologics: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Ota Ryosuke , Hata Takeo , Hirata Atsushi , Hamada Takeshi , Nishihara Masami , Neo Masashi , Katsumata Takahiro
Published: February 2023

Aims

This retrospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the effect of the interaction between methotrexate and glucocorticoids on the risk of developing bacterial infections in patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) using biological disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs).

Methods

We used the 2005–2018 JMDC claims database, a nationwide claims database in Japan. From the database of 7 175 048 patients, study patients were obtained by applying the following exclusion criteria: no use of bDMARDs; without information on the date of prescription; without RA as a disease; other than the new users of bDMARDs; and age <18 years. The exposures were glucocorticoids and methotrexate, and the outcome was bacterial infection. The interaction effects were examined using multivariate Cox regression analysis. Bacterial infections were identified according to antibiotic prescription and International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, 10th revision codes.

Results

A total of 2837 RA patients were identified, with a median age of 50 years. The incidence of infection was 16.8% (95% confidence interval: 15.5–18.3). The interaction term for the doses of glucocorticoids and methotrexate was significant. Additionally, a higher dose of glucocorticoid was a significant risk factor for developing bacterial infections on the side of high doses of methotrexate. The incidence of bacterial infections tended to increase significantly with increasing methotrexate doses coprescribed with glucocorticoids ≥5 mg or glucocorticoid doses coprescribed with methotrexate ≥8 mg.

Conclusion

Our results indicate a potential association between methotrexate dose and bacterial infections during bDMARDs administration with glucocorticoids in patients with RA.
Is suffering a sufficient legitimation for UTx?
Authors: Bozzaro Claudia , Weismann Melanie , Westermann Anna Maria , Alkatout Ibrahim
Published: February 2023

Uterus transplantation is a relatively new intervention. A woman with absolute uterine factor infertility receives, by a surgical procedure, a transplanted uterus, most often by living donation. The uterus recipient may thus become pregnant and conceive her own child. As with any other medical treatment, UTx requires legitimation. The anticipated benefits must outweigh the risks of the medical intervention. The risks and benefits of UTx are by no means unequivocal and cannot be easily determined. The benefits depend on the final evaluation of the suffering to be alleviated by the intervention. In the following, we will analyze the suffering addressed by UTx and discuss its normative value. First, we point out that (a) suffering is generally considered an important normative criterion in medicine as well as in the context of UTx; (b) we then describe the risks and anticipated benefits of UTx for the three persons directly concerned: the child, the donor, and the recipient; (c) we further analyze the suffering addressed by UTx. The intervention addresses a form of existential suffering. We discuss the common notion that existential suffering should be evaluated from the subjective perspective of the sufferer; (d) afterwards, we argue that in a social practice like medicine, a one‐sided evaluation stemming from the sufferer alone is not sufficient; and (e) finally, arguments from a societal perspective lead us to the conclusion that the existential suffering addressed by UTx does not possess a sufficiently strong normative value to legitimize a high‐risk, expensive procedure.
Proline promotes proliferation and drug resistance of multiple myeloma by downregulation of proline dehydrogenase
Authors: Zhang Jingyu , Shi Fangming , Liu Xing , Wu Xuan , Hu Cong , Guo Jiaojiao , Yang Qin , Xia Jiliang , He Yanjuan , An Gang , Qiu Lugui , Feng Xiangling , Zhou Wen
Published: February 2023

Amino acids in the bone marrow microenvironment (BMME) are a critical factor for multiple myeloma (MM) progression. Here, we have determined that proline is elevated in BMME of MM patients and links to poor prognosis in MM. Moreover, exogenous proline regulates MM cell proliferation and drug resistance. Elevated proline in BMME is due to bone collagen degradation and abnormal expression of the key enzyme of proline catabolism, proline dehydrogenase (PRODH). PRODH is downregulated in MM patients, mainly as a result of promoter hypermethylation with high expression of DNMT3b. Thus, overexpression of PRODH suppresses cell proliferation and drug resistance of MM and exhibits therapeutic potential for treatment of MM. Altogether, we identify proline as a key metabolic regulator of MM, unveil PRODH governing MM progression and provide a promising therapeutic strategy for MM treatment.
Evolution and development of methodologies in social and behavioural science research in relation to oral health
Authors: Baker Sarah R. , Heaton Lisa J. , McGrath Colman
Published: February 2023

The aim of this introductory paper is to provide an overview of key methodological developments in social and behavioural research in oral health. In the first section, we provide a brief historical perspective on research in the field. In the second section, we outline key methodological issues and introduce the seven papers in the theme. Conceptual models can contextualize research findings and address the ‘why’ and ‘how’ instead of ‘what’ and ‘how many’. Many models exist, albeit they need to be evaluated (and adapted) for use in oral health research and in specific settings. The increasing availability of big data can facilitate this with data linkage. Through data linkage, it is possible to explore and understand in a broader capacity the array of factors that influence oral health outcomes and how oral health can influences other factors. With advances in statistical approaches, it is feasible to consider casual inferences and to quantify these effects. There is a need for not only individual efforts to embrace causal inference research but also systematic and structural changes in the field to yield substantial results. The value of qualitative research in co‐producing knowledge with and from human participants in addressing ‘the how’ and ‘the why’ factors is also key. There have been calls to employ more sophisticated qualitative methods together with mixed methods approaches as ways of helping to address the complex or Wicked Problems in population oral health. In the final section, we outline possible future methodological directions in social and behavioural oral health research including participatory approaches and the development of core outcome sets. Our overriding goal in the paper is to facilitate a critical debate in relation to methodological issues which can be used to improve understanding and generate knowledge in population oral health and that this, in turn, will help inform oral health policy and practices.
Fostering educational prosperity: A randomized controlled trial of home tutoring in foster care
Authors: Eiberg Misja , Scavenius Christoffer
Published: February 2023

The educational gap between children in out‐of‐home care and their non‐placed peers is well‐documented. However, tutoring stands out as a promising intervention to raise children's educational attainment in out‐of‐home care. This study randomized 105 children in foster care (62% girls, aged 7–15 years [M = 10.3, SD = 2.0]) to the home tutoring program Foster Caregivers as Tutors (FCT) or regular public school services (treatment as usual [TAU]). In the FCT group, the foster caregivers tutored the children for 2.5 h/week for 40 weeks. The program effect is measured in learning and developmental outcomes, including reading and math ability, learning skills, IQ, executive function, and psychosocial function. Follow‐up was 17.5 months after baseline. The results show a significant effect over time in both groups on IQ (effect size [ES] = 0.40, P < 0.001), verbal comprehension (ES = 0.29 P = 0.02) and perceptual reasoning (ES = 0.60, P < 0.001) measured by WISC IV. Neither the FCT nor TAU provided any significant academic recovery in reading and math nor progression in executive function, learning skills or psychosocial function. These findings, implications for practice and future efforts to support the schooling of children in out‐of‐home care are discussed.
Genetic architecture of hippocampus subfields volumes in Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Cai Jiahui , Xiong Weixue , Wang Xueqin , Tan Haizhu ,   the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) Database
Published: February 2023

Background

The hippocampus is a heterogeneous structure, comprising histologically and functionally distinguishable hippocampal subfields. The volume reductions in hippocampal subfields have been demonstrated to be linked with Alzheimer's disease (AD). The aim of our study is to investigate the hippocampal subfields' genetic architecture based on the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative (ADNI) data set.

Methods

After preprocessing the downloaded genetic variants and imaging data from the ADNI database, a co‐sparse reduced rank regression model was applied to analyze the genetic architecture of hippocampal subfields volumes. Homology modeling, docking, molecular dynamics simulations, and Co‐IP experiments for protein–protein interactions were used to verify the function of target protein on hippocampal subfields successively. After that, the association analysis between the candidated genes on the hippocampal subfields volume and clinical scales were performed.

Results

The results of the association analysis revealed five unique genetic variants (e.g., ubiquitin‐specific protease 10 [USP10]) changed in nine hippocampal subfields (e.g., the granule cell and molecular layer of the dentate gyrus [GC‐ML‐DG]). Among five genetic variants, USP10 had the strongest interaction effect with BACE1, which affected hippocampal subfields verified by MD and Co‐IP experiments. The results of association analysis between the candidated genes on the hippocampal subfields volume and clinical scales showed that candidated genes influenced the volume and function of hippocampal subfields.

Conclusions

Current evidence suggests that hippocampal subfields have partly distinct genetic architecture and may improve the sensitivity of the detection of AD.
Contrasting ecological information content in whaling archives with modern cetacean surveys for conservation planning and identification of historical distribution changes
Authors: Letessier Tom B. , Mannocci Laura , Goodwin Brittney , Embling Clare , de Vos Asha , Anderson R. Charles , Ingram Simon N. , Rogan Andy , Turvey Samuel T.
Published: February 2023

Many species are restricted to a marginal or suboptimal fraction of their historical range due to anthropogenic impacts, making it hard to interpret their ecological preferences from modern‐day data alone. However, inferring past ecological states is limited by the availability of robust data and biases in historical archives, posing a challenge for policy makers . To highlight how historical records can be used to understand the ecological requirements of threatened species and inform conservation, we investigated sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) distribution in the Western Indian Ocean. We assessed differences in information content and habitat suitability predictions based on whale occurrence data from Yankee whaling logs (1792–1912) and from modern cetacean surveys (1995–2020). We built maximum entropy habitat suitability models containing static (bathymetry‐derived) variables to compare models comprising historical‐only and modern‐only data. Using both historical and modern habitat suitability predictions  we assessed marine protected area (MPA) placement by contrasting suitability in‐ and outside MPAs. The historical model predicted high habitat suitability in shelf and coastal regions near continents and islands, whereas the modern model predicted a less coastal distribution with high habitat suitability more restricted to areas of steep topography. The proportion of high habitat suitability inside versus outside MPAs was higher when applying the historical predictions than the modern predictions, suggesting that different marine spatial planning optimums can be reached from either data sources. Moreover, differences in relative habitat suitability predictions between eras were consistent with the historical depletion of sperm whales from coastal regions, which were easily accessed and targeted by whalers, resulting in a modern distribution limited more to steep continental margins and remote oceanic ridges. The use of historical data can provide important new insights and, through cautious interpretation, inform conservation planning and policy, for example, by identifying refugee species and regions of anticipated population recovery.
mt‐Ty 5'tiRNA regulates skeletal muscle cell proliferation and differentiation
Authors: Cao Jun , Wang Xin , Advani Vivek , Lu Yao Wei , Malizia Andrea P. , Singh Gurinder Bir , Huang Zhan‐Peng , Liu Jianming , Wang Chunbo , Oliveira Edilamar M. , Mably John D. , Chen Kaifu , Wang Da‐Zhi
Published: February 2023

In this study, we sought to determine the role of tRNA‐derived fragments in the regulation of gene expression during skeletal muscle cell proliferation and differentiation. We employed cell culture to examine the function of mt‐Ty 5’ tiRNAs. Northern blotting, RT‐PCR as well as RNA‐Seq, were performed to determine the effects of mt‐Ty 5’ tiRNA loss and gain on gene expression. Standard and transmission electron microscopy (TEM) were used to characterize cell and sub‐cellular structures. mt‐Ty 5’tiRNAs were found to be enriched in mouse skeletal muscle, showing increased levels in later developmental stages. Gapmer‐mediated inhibition of tiRNAs in skeletal muscle C2C12 myoblasts resulted in decreased cell proliferation and myogenic differentiation; consistent with this observation, RNA‐Seq, transcriptome analyses, and RT‐PCR revealed that skeletal muscle cell differentiation and cell proliferation pathways were also downregulated. Conversely, overexpression of mt‐Ty 5’tiRNAs in C2C12 cells led to a reversal of these transcriptional trends. These data reveal that mt‐Ty 5’tiRNAs are enriched in skeletal muscle and play an important role in myoblast proliferation and differentiation. Our study also highlights the potential for the development of tiRNAs as novel therapeutic targets for muscle‐related diseases.
Student satisfaction with R vs. Excel in Data Mining and Business Analytics: A Herzberg's motivation‐hygiene theory perspective
Authors: Sankaran Siva , Sankaran Kris , Bui Tung
Published: February 2023

Applying Herzberg's motivation‐hygiene theory, we studied the determinants of student satisfaction in using R in a Decision Support Systems course that previously used Excel to teach Data Mining and Business Analytics (DMBA). The course is a degree requirement, and prior programming experience is not a prerequisite. We hypothesized that motivators for student satisfaction with R would include: (i) an intrinsic interest in DMBA, (ii) a perception that R is a better tool than Excel for DMBA, and (iii) a favorable view of R as a facilitator of career advancement. We postulated that the hygiene factor was the compulsory course requirement to learn R, a new and challenging language to students in this study. Data from 120 students, analyzed using Principal Component Analysis (PCA) and Generalized Additive Modeling (GAM), showed that motivators were positively related to satisfaction while hygiene factors were neutral. Students showed willingness to take on a harder challenge in exchange for intrinsic and future career benefits. The model can be useful in curriculum design or career advisement to increase student satisfaction in learning new software skills while meeting market demands.
Effect of surface treatment of ethylene vinyl acetate on the delamination of custom‐fitted mouthguards
Authors: de Melo Calebe , Resende Júlia Borges , Lozada Maribí Isomar Terán , Mendoza Lilibeth Carola Leyton , Ribeiro Maria Tereza Hordones , Soares Priscila Barbosa Ferreira , Soares Carlos José
Published: February 2023

Background/Aim

Contamination of ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) during mouthguard fabrication can cause delamination. The study evaluated the effects of different EVA surface treatments on the contact angle, laminate bond strength, and elongation capacity.

Materials and Methods

Specimens of two bonded EVA plates were prepared (n = 30). The Shore A hardness of standardized EVA plate specimens was measured before and after thermo‐plasticization. The EVA plates were randomly allocated to one of five different surface treatment groups: no treatment (control); isopropyl alcohol, 100%; chloroform, 99.8%; self‐cure acrylic resin monomer (methacrylate, ethylene glycol dimethacrylate, and chemical initiator—amine type); and ethyl alcohol, 70%. The maximum breaking force and elongation at the site of fracture were recorded using a universal testing machine. The contact angle surface was measured using ImageJ software. Scanning electron microscopy of the EVA surface was performed. The laminate bond strength was obtained by dividing the maximum breaking force by the bonding area between the two EVA plates. The laminate bond strength and maximum elongation data were analyzed by one‐way ANOVA, followed by the Tukey's and the Dunnet test. The failure mode data was analyzed using the chi‐square test (α = .05).

Results

EVA surface treatment significantly influenced the laminate bond strength and maximum elongation (p < .001). The control group had a higher contact angle and significantly lower laminate bond strength and maximum elongation than the other groups (p < .001). The acrylic resin monomer and chloroform‐treated specimens had similar laminate bond strength and maximum elongation. The acrylic resin monomer group had a significantly lower contact angle (p < .001).

Conclusions

All treatments had a significantly higher laminate bond strength and maximum elongation than the control group. The acrylic resin monomer and chloroform groups had a significantly higher laminate bond strength and maximum elongation and the acrylic resin monomer group had a lower contact angle than the other groups. The chloroform should be avoided due its hazardous effects.
Using Critical Success Index or Gilbert Skill Score as composite measures of positive predictive value and sensitivity in diagnostic accuracy studies: Weather forecasting informing epilepsy research
Authors: Mbizvo Gashirai K. , Bennett Kyle H. , Simpson Colin R. , Duncan Susan E. , Chin Richard F. M. , Larner Andrew J.
Published: February 2023

The Critical Success Index (CSI) and Gilbert Skill score (GS) are verification measures that are commonly used to check the accuracy of weather forecasting. In this article, we propose that they can also be used to simplify the joint interpretation of positive predictive value (PPV) and sensitivity estimates across diagnostic accuracy studies of epilepsy data. This is because CSI and GS each provide a single measure that takes the weather forecasting equivalent of PPV and sensitivity into account. We have re‐analysed data from our recent systematic review of diagnostic accuracy studies of administrative epilepsy data using CSI and GS. We summarise the results and benefits of this approach.
Development of an equine muscle condition score
Authors: Pallesen Kristine , Gebara Katia , Hopster‐Iversen Charlotte , Berg Lise C.
Published: February 2023

Background

Muscle mass influences performance and health in horses. It is important to be able to easily evaluate muscle mass in horses.

Objectives

To develop an equine muscle condition score (MCS) to be used by veterinarians, horse owners, trainers and other people involved in horse management and training.

Study design

Observational, cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Twenty‐five Thoroughbred horses at different training levels were included. Initial assessment included body condition score, height and bodyweight. Seven muscles (m. splenius, m. brachiocephalicus, m. multifidus, m. longissimus dorsi, m. gluteus medius, m. semitendinosus and m. tensor fascia latae) were imaged using ultrasonography and measured. Repeatability of ultrasonographic measurements was tested in advance by measuring each muscle 10 times in two horses. Muscle sizes were compared between two groups; trained and untrained to determine difference in muscle mass. Horses were subsequently ranked according to measured muscle mass, and palpable and visual differences between horses at different ranks were identified. A 5‐point MCS was developed. The MCS was tested by an independent, blinded operator in all 25 horses.

Results

Ultrasonographic measurement of all muscles had a coefficient of variation under 5%. All muscle sizes were significantly correlated to each other except for m. brachiocephalicus, which was not correlated to m. semitendinosus and m. multifidus. All muscles were significantly larger in trained horses than in untrained horses except for m. brachiocephalicus and m. splenius. After testing, minor adjustments were made to optimise usability of the score.

Main limitations

The study population consisted of very similar horses. Further studies are needed to test the reliability of the MCS in horses of different breeds, disciplines, body condition scores and health.

Conclusion

This study resulted in an equine MCS that could identify differences in muscle mass between horses. The resulting MCS was similar to other muscle assessment systems developed independently from our study, thus strengthening the findings.
Budgeting in public hospital trusts: Surplus, optimism, and accuracy
Authors: Lindaas Nils Arne , Anthun Kjartan Sarheim , Magnussen Jon
Published: February 2023

Hospitals in Norway are organized as trusts, required to follow the same accounting principles as the private sector, and responsible for funding their own investments. Thus, being able to run with a surplus has been an important part of their management. We analyze hospital budgeting for the whole sector over a 9‐year period, looking at the size of the budget surplus, degree of optimism bias, and degree of budget accuracy when comparing to the actual financial results. Our findings indicate that on average, health trusts budget with a relatively small surplus. We find indications for optimism bias, but also examples of pessimism bias. Large health trusts seem to have a higher degree of accuracy of the budgeted results. Trusts that fail to meet budgeted results have a lower budgeted surplus the following period. Capital intensity, an indication of need for new investments, is not associated with budget surplus, degree of optimism, or budget accuracy.
Emerging Ideas. Parent perspectives on children with sensory over‐responsivity
Authors: Ohanneson Beth , Schoen Sarah A. , Mitchell Vanessa
Published: February 2023

Objective

This pilot study sought to explore the experience of children with sensory over‐responsivity (SOR) during a sensory meltdown and the extent that parents feel confident about strategies they use to support their child.

Background

A large percentage of children with sensory processing challenges present with SOR. A better understanding of the experience of children with SOR is suggested to clarify severity and help parents respond effectively.

Method

A retrospective analysis was conducted. An anonymous survey questionnaire was sent to 110 members of an online support group. Thirty‐six parent responses were collected from families of children with sensory processing challenges in San Francisco.

Results

Results indicated 88.9% of parents reported their child experiencing an SOR meltdown, with 51.4% having asked their child what a sensory meltdown feels like, and 31.4% reporting an experience of pain. Those children who responded to the question “does it hurt?” offered descriptions reflective of an “assault” (e.g., “it feels like knives are stabbing my bones,” “it's killing me,” “it's completely overwhelming”). Only 30.6% of parents reported feeling confident about how to respond to their child during sensory events.

Conclusion

Descriptions reported in this exploratory study suggest a change in terminology. Preliminary evidence suggests that these meltdowns may be more accurately described as sensory assaults.

Implications

This perspective could influence parental and societal views of children with SOR. More research is needed to determine how widespread the experience of pain with SOR is and if a better understanding of children's experiences can inform family interventions.
The functional role of Ire1 in regulating autophagy and proteasomal degradation under prolonged proteotoxic stress
Authors: Das Eshita , Sahu Kiran Kumari , Roy Ipsita
Published: February 2023

Inhibition of endoribonuclease/kinase Ire1 has shown beneficial effects in many proteotoxicity‐induced pathology models. The mechanism by which this occurs has not been elucidated completely. Using a proteotoxic yeast model of Huntington's disease, we show that the deletion of Ire1 led to lower protein aggregation at longer time points. The rate of protein degradation was higher in ΔIre1 cells. We monitored the two major protein degradation mechanisms in the cell. The increase in expression of Rpn4, coding for the transcription factor controlling proteasome biogenesis, was higher in ΔIre1 cells. The chymotrypsin‐like proteasomal activity was also significantly enhanced in these cells at later time points of aggregation. The gene and protein expression levels of the autophagy gene Atg8 were higher in ΔIre1 than in wild‐type cells. Significant increase in autophagy flux was also seen in ΔIre1 cells at later time points of aggregation. The results suggest that the deletion of Ire1 activates UPR‐independent arms of the proteostasis network, especially under conditions of aggravated stress. Thus, the inhibition of Ire1 may regulate UPR‐independent cellular stress‐response pathways under prolonged stress.
Perennial biomass cropping and use: Shaping the policy ecosystem in European countries
Authors: Clifton‐Brown John , Hastings Astley , von Cossel Moritz , Murphy‐Bokern Donal , McCalmont Jon , Whitaker Jeanette , Alexopoulou Efi , Amaducci Stefano , Andronic Larisa , Ashman Christopher , Awty‐Carroll Danny , Bhatia Rakesh , Breuer Lutz , Cosentino Salvatore , Cracroft‐Eley William , Donnison Iain , Elbersen Berien , Ferrarini Andrea , Ford Judith , Greef Jörg , Ingram Julie , Lewandowski Iris , Magenau Elena , Mos Michal , Petrick Martin , Pogrzeba Marta , Robson Paul , Rowe Rebecca L. , Sandu Anatolii , Schwarz Kai‐Uwe , Scordia Danilo , Scurlock Jonathan , Shepherd Anita , Thornton Judith , Trindade Luisa M. , Vetter Sylvia , Wagner Moritz , Wu Pei‐Chen , Yamada Toshihiko , Kiesel Andreas
Published: February 2023

Demand for sustainably produced biomass is expected to increase with the need to provide renewable commodities, improve resource security and reduce greenhouse gas emissions in line with COP26 commitments. Studies have demonstrated additional environmental benefits of using perennial biomass crops (PBCs), when produced appropriately, as a feedstock for the growing bioeconomy, including utilisation for bioenergy (with or without carbon capture and storage). PBCs can potentially contribute to Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) (2023–27) objectives provided they are carefully integrated into farming systems and landscapes. Despite significant research and development (R&D) investment over decades in herbaceous and coppiced woody PBCs, deployment has largely stagnated due to social, economic and policy uncertainties. This paper identifies the challenges in creating policies that are acceptable to all actors. Development will need to be informed by measurement, reporting and verification (MRV) of greenhouse gas emissions reductions and other environmental, economic and social metrics. It discusses interlinked issues that must be considered in the expansion of PBC production: (i) available land; (ii) yield potential; (iii) integration into farming systems; (iv) R&D requirements; (v) utilisation options; and (vi) market systems and the socio‐economic environment. It makes policy recommendations that would enable greater PBC deployment: (1) incentivise farmers and land managers through specific policy measures, including carbon pricing, to allocate their less productive and less profitable land for uses which deliver demonstrable greenhouse gas reductions; (2) enable greenhouse gas mitigation markets to develop and offer secure contracts for commercial developers of verifiable low‐carbon bioenergy and bioproducts; (3) support innovation in biomass utilisation value chains; and (4) continue long‐term, strategic R&D and education for positive environmental, economic and social sustainability impacts.
Women's leadership and the gendered consequences of austerity in the public sector: Evidence from IMF programs
Authors: Reinsberg Bernhard , Kern Andreas , Heinzel Mirko , Metinsoy Saliha
Published: February 2023

During times of economic turmoil, women often bear the cost of cuts in public spending and labor market deregulation. We argue that the adverse gendered consequences of austerity are mitigated when women occupy more political leadership positions. We test our argument using two independent sources of evidence. First, we use cross‐country time‐series data for 95 countries from 2000 to 2018 on public‐sector employment outcomes and panel regressions to show that women leaders mitigate the adverse consequences of IMF programs for women in the public sector. Second, we use individual‐level data from the World Values Surveys covering 50 countries from 2004 to 2015 to show that women in the public sector are more likely to fear job loss and endure income loss under IMF programs when the women share in the government of their country is low but that these adverse effects disappear once women are represented in the government. These results have important implications for debates on women's leadership as well as the impact of austerity on the public sector.
Multiplication of tumor maximum diameter and number as a new surgical indicator for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer intermediate‐stage hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Morine Yuji , Saito Yu , Yamada Shinichiro , Teraoku Hiroki , Waki Yuhei , Noma Takayuki , Ikemoto Tetsuya , Shimada Mitsuo
Published: February 2023

Aim

Recent advances in treatment modalities have been made, limiting the indication of hepatic resection in the treatment strategy for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) patients. This retrospective study investigated the significance of multiplication of tumor maximum diameter and number (MDN) as a surgical indicator for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer intermediate‐stage HCC.

Methods

A total of 49 patients with Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer intermediate‐stage HCC who underwent curative hepatic resection between 2000 and 2020 were enrolled in this study. Prognostic factors of overall survival and disease‐free survival, including the product of MDN, were analyzed.

Results

Patients with MDN >12 experienced significantly worse prognosis compared with those with MDN ≤12 (p = 0.0395), and 5‐year overall survival rates after hepatic resection were 60.0% and 23.4%, respectively. Furthermore, the disease‐free survival rate of patients with MDN >12 was significantly worse compared with those with MDN ≤12 (p = 0.0049), and all patients with MDN >12 experienced recurrence within 3 years after hepatic resection. In the multivariate analysis, MDN >12 was identified as the only independent prognostic factor of both overall survival and disease‐free survival. In addition, patients with MDN >12 suffered from uncontrollable recurrence by locoregional treatment, such as more than four intrahepatic and extrahepatic recurrences, after hepatic resection.

Conclusions

MDN index might be a new surgical indicator for Barcelona Clinic Liver Cancer intermediate‐stage HCC, and influence clinical decision‐making for individual treatment strategies.