bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Productivity drivers of infrastructure companies: Network industries utilizing economies of scale in the digital era
Authors: Nakatani Ryota
Published: January 2023

What drives the productivity dynamics of infrastructure companies? Using a panel of firms in 14 countries, we study total factor productivity (TFP) enhancers of utility and network services companies. We find that moving TFP closer to the technological frontier drives productivity growth at higher speeds in Asian countries than in European countries. We also find that financial leverage exerts a positive effect on TFP growth for larger infrastructure firms and that more financially developed countries utilize economies of scale through better use of financial resources. Large utility and transportation companies display a higher rate of TFP growth, indicating that a competition policy to encourage M&As would be prudent for the utility/transportation sectors to maximize economies of scale. In contrast, we find diseconomies of scale for energy companies in some countries. Moreover, young network firms improve TFP growth faster than their peers in countries with fewer product market regulations. Therefore, policies should remove entry barriers while facilitating the departure of old and low‐productivity firms from network markets. Finally, policymakers should offer well‐targeted fiscal incentives for intangible investments to boost TFP because the accumulation of intangible assets such as digital technology promotes more scale economies through network effects.
Horizontal pay dispersion as social context for predicting employee performance outcomes associated with diagnostic‐ versus criterion‐referenced performance feedback
Authors: Bachrach Daniel G. , Naskar Shankar T. , Patel Pankaj C. , Levy Paul
Published: January 2023

Despite its recognised centrality as an organisational tool, there are decades of mixed findings relating to the employee performance benefits associated with different forms of performance feedback. The ambiguity present in the literature has been attributed to multiple factors, including feedback purpose and the context within which feedback occurs. Integrating these broad themes, we develop a model expanding the breadth of relevant social context variables to include horizontal pay dispersion. Building from tournament theory, in a field experiment of 267 employees across 22 units, we find improved performance from diagnostic feedback delivered under increasing pay dispersion; however, substantively different patterns emerge for criterion‐referenced feedback. The current findings have implications for both performance feedback research and tournament theory.
Metabolic adaptations of cancer in extreme tumor microenvironments
Authors: Nakahara Ryuichi , Maeda Keisuke , Aki Sho , Osawa Tsuyoshi
Published: January 2023

Cancer cells are highly heterogeneous to adapt to extreme tumor microenvironments (TMEs). TMEs challenge cancer cells via hypoxia, nutrition starvation, and acidic pH, promoting invasion and metastasis concomitant with genetic, epigenetic, and metabolic alterations. Metabolic adaptation to an extreme TME could allow cancer cells to evade cell death and immune responses, as well as resulting in drug resistance, recurrence, and poor patient prognosis. Therefore, elucidation of the metabolic adaptation of malignant cancer cells within TMEs is necessary, however, most are still elusive. Recently, adaptation of cancer cells within the TME can be analyzed via cell–cell interactions at the single‐cell level. In addition, information into organelle–organelle interactions has recently been obtained. These cell–cell, and organelle–organelle interactions demonstrate the potential as new cancer therapy targets, as they play essential roles in the metabolic adaptation of cancer cells to the TME. In this manuscript, we review (1) metabolic adaptations within tumor microenvironments through (2) cell‐to‐cell, and (3) organelle–organelle metabolic interactions.
Strain matters in mouse models of peanut‐allergic anaphylaxis: Systemic IgE‐dependent and Ara h 2‐dominant sensitization in C3H mice
Authors: Paolucci Marta , Homère Valentine , Waeckerle‐Men Ying , Wuillemin Natascha , Bieli Dimitri , Pengo Niccolò , Sonati Tiziana , Kündig Thomas M. , Johansen Pål
Published: January 2023

Background

Peanut allergy accounts for the majority of food‐induced hypersensitivity reactions and can lead to lethal anaphylaxis. Animal models can provide an insight into the immune mechanisms responsible for sensitization and allergic anaphylaxis. However, different mouse strains and sensitization protocols can influence the successful development of a peanut allergic mouse model.

Objective

We aimed at developing a systemic anaphylaxis model of peanut allergy that resembles human anaphylaxis. We compared the immunological and clinical responses in genetically different mouse strains.

Methods

Female BALB/c, C57BL/6, and C3H mice were intraperitoneally sensitized and later challenged with peanut proteins. Allergen‐specific serology was done by ELISA, and anaphylaxis was evaluated by monitoring changes in body temperature upon systemic challenge.

Results

Sensitization to peanut was successful in C3H mice and triggered production of allergen‐specific antibodies, cytokines and anaphylaxis. Allergic reactions were characterized by the release of allergic mediators and by changes in leukocyte populations in blood and in the peritoneal cavity. Among the identified major peanut allergens, Ara h 2 showed the strongest anaphylactic potential. Much lower or no trigger of peanut‐specific antibodies was observed in BALB/c and C57BL/6 mice, which experienced no hypersensitivity reactions.

Conclusions

Mouse strain matters for testing of peanut protein allergens. We identified C3H mice as a suitable strain for the development of a mouse model of peanut‐allergic anaphylaxis. Pre‐clinical, humoural and cellular responses resembled the responses observed in human patients. The described model can be useful for further studies on peanut allergy and for the development of new therapeutic strategies.
Deproteinized bovine bone and freeze‐dried bone allograft in sinus floor augmentation: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Kungvarnchaikul Isaya , Subbalekha Keskanya , Sindhavajiva Pimrumpai R. , Suwanwela Jaijam
Published: January 2023

Purpose

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of deproteinized bovine bone (DBB, Bio‐Oss®) and freeze‐dried bone allograft (FDBA, SureOss®) on bone healing during maxillary sinus floor augmentation (MSFA) using histology, immunohistochemistry, and gene expressions of the marker genes including Runx2, Opn, Ocn, Col1a1, Rankl, and Tnf‐α.

Materials and Methods

Fourteen participants who required two‐stage maxillary sinus augmentation were randomly assigned to DBB and FDBA bone grafting groups. Six months after the sinus augmentation procedure, bone samples were collected before implant placement with a trephine bur. Gene expression of Runx2, Opn, Ocn, Col1a1, Rankl, and Tnf‐α of the bone samples was assessed by real‐time polymerase chain reaction as a primary outcome. Histological analysis of H&E‐stained sections, immunohistochemistry for OPN quantification, and CBCT‐based bone tissue examination were performed to investigate the bone healing effects of DBB and FDBA substitutes.

Results

The FDBA treated group showed higher gene expression when compared with the DBB treated group in Opn (2.83 ± 1.23 vs. 1.40 ± 0.69; p = 0.04), Runx2 (1.49 ± 0.44 vs. 0.67 ± 0.14; p = 0.01), and Rankl (2.34 ± 0.85 vs. 0.69 ± 0.39; p = 0.03). In the DBB treated group a downregulated expression was found of Ocn relative to maxillary edentulous bone (1.18 ± 0.40 vs. 2.51 ± 0.78; p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Two‐stage maxillary sinus augmentation with FDBA upregulated specific bone remodeling genes when compared to DBB. The outcome of gene expression matched with the ones for OPN immunoreactivity, being higher in the FDBA group. FDBA had an expression pattern similar to native bone and showed stronger expression of bone forming related‐genes suggesting it may be clinically preferable over DBB.

This clinical trial was not registered prior to participant recruitment and randomization (clinical registration number TCTR20221217002).
Fecal microbiota transplantation and short‐chain fatty acids protected against cognitive dysfunction in a rat model of chronic cerebral hypoperfusion
Authors: Su Shao‐Hua , Chen Ming , Wu Yi‐Fang , Lin Qi , Wang Da‐Peng , Sun Jun , Hai Jian
Published: January 2023

Aims

Clear roles and mechanisms in explaining gut microbial dysbiosis and microbial metabolites short‐chain fatty acids (SCFAs) alterations in chronic cerebral ischemic pathogenesis have yet to be explored. In this study, we investigated chronic cerebral hypoperfusion (CCH)‐induced gut microbiota and metabolic profiles of SCFAs as well as the effects and mechanisms of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) and SCFAs treatment on CCH‐induced hippocampal neuronal injury.

Methods

Bilateral common carotid artery occlusion (BCCAo) was used to establish the CCH model. Gut microbiota and SCFAs profiles in feces and hippocampus were evaluated by 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing and gas chromatography–mass spectrometry. RNA sequencing analysis was performed in hippocampal tissues. The potential molecular pathways and differential genes were verified through western blot, immunoprecipitation, immunofluorescence, and ELISA. Cognitive function was assessed via the Morris water maze test. Ultrastructures of mitochondria and synapses were tested through a transmission electron microscope.

Results

Chronic cerebral hypoperfusion induced decreased fecal acetic and propionic acid and reduced hippocampal acetic acid, which were reversed after FMT and SCFAs administration by changing fecal microbial community structure and compositions. Furthermore, in the hippocampus, FMT and SCFAs replenishment exerted anti‐neuroinflammatory effects through inhibiting microglial and astrocytic activation as well as switching microglial phenotype from M1 toward M2. Moreover, FMT and SCFAs treatment alleviated neuronal loss and microglia‐mediated synaptic loss and maintained the normal process of synaptic vesicle fusion and release, resulting in the improvement of synaptic plasticity. In addition, FMT and SCFAs supplement prevented oxidative phosphorylation dysfunction via mitochondrial metabolic reprogramming. The above effects of FMT and SCFAs treatment led to the inhibition of CCH‐induced cognitive impairment.

Conclusion

Our findings highlight FMT and SCFAs replenishment would be the feasible gut microbiota‐based strategy to mitigate chronic cerebral ischemia‐induced neuronal injury.
Performing Vegetable Nutrition: Rethinking School Food and Health
Authors: Trapp Micah M.
Published: January 2023

School food programs across the United States are plagued by widespread criticism and face urgent calls for reform and public discourse has also become fixated upon “healthy” eating as a means to address a variety of child health problems. Scholars widely challenge the admonishment to eat “healthy” as laden with privilege and recognize the inherent, hegemonic whiteness of contemporary alternative food movements, but few studies have directly examined the relationship between race and school food programs. This paper draws on ethnographic research to unpack “healthy eating” through the perspective of elementary school students and shows how they challenge dominant narratives that assume kids do not like vegetables and expose the fallacy of nutrition education as the key to healthy eating. Through the performance of vegetable nutrition, kids critically engage with normative nutrition messages and begin to reveal a racialized consciousness of school food.
CERS6 antisense RNA 1 promotes colon cancer via upregulating mitochondrial calcium uniporter
Authors: Yu Juan , Chen Xiaoguang , Li Jing , Wang Furang
Published: January 2023

Background

Colon cancer (CC) belongs to a common cancer of digestive system. Long non‐coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are dysregulated in numerous cancers and affect their development. The function of lncRNA CERS6 antisense RNA 1 (CERS6‐AS1) in CC remains unclear.

Materials and Methods

CERS6‐AS1 expression in colon adenocarcinoma tissues and CC cell lines was assessed by The Cancer Genome Atlas database and quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis. The function of CERS6‐AS1 in CC was analysed by 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine, colony formation, flow cytometry, terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labelling, wound healing, Transwell and immunofluorescence assays. Mechanistic analyses including RNA pull down, RNA‐binding protein immunoprecipitation and luciferase reporter assay revealed the interaction between RNAs.

Results

CERS6‐AS1 expression was aberrantly upregulated in colon adenocarcinoma tissues and CC cell lines. CERS6‐AS1 knockdown inhibited CC cell malignant phenotypes and in vivo tumour growth. CERS6‐AS1 served as the competing endogenous RNA of microRNA‐16‐5p in CC, and microRNA‐16‐5p inhibition partly rescued the effects of CERS6‐AS1 depletion on CC development. Mitochondrial calcium uniporter was targeted by microRNA‐16‐5p. Mitochondrial calcium uniporter upregulation completely remedied the influence of CERS6‐AS1 silencing in CC progression. Moreover, CERS6‐AS1 enhanced the stability of mitochondrial calcium uniporter messenger RNA via recruiting RNA‐binding protein embryonic lethal abnormal vision like 1.

Conclusion

CERS6‐AS1 promotes the development of CC via upregulating mitochondrial calcium uniporter expression.
Covering the Wound: Education and the Work of Mourning
Authors: Lee Soyoung
Published: January 2023

In this essay, Soyoung Lee explores the theme of mourning as a way of attending to a fundamental aspect of human experience that is bound to negativity. The essay helps readers to see that experience in a different light by drawing on what is shown to be an internal connection between mourning and having language. The dominant culture of contemporary education is preoccupied with management and control, and this renders hollow the understanding of the negative experience children go through. Such experience, if it is acknowledged at all, is regarded as requiring intervention and perhaps correction. Yet negative experience, as Lee tries to show, is the very source of personal growth. This is to take human experience as wounded, and the wound as the very place for the creation of our own words. A hasty approach toward an individual's suffering, whether in the name of “healing” or “knowledge,” becomes a suppression of voice. In its denial of the otherness within the self, it neglects the possibilities of self‐transformation. The essay pursues these ideas through a reading of contrasting works of art: some poetry by Paul Celan (in conjunction with Jacques Derrida's response to it) and Still Walking, a film directed by Hirokazu Kore‐eda. Both artworks deal with their own wounds and words in ways that are instructive.
First report of branch blight disease caused by Aplosporella longipes on Physocarpus amurensis in China
Authors: Yao Chunhua , Liu Xuefeng , Diao Guiping
Published: January 2023

From June through October 2020, symptoms of a branch blight disease were observed on Physocarpus amurensis plants in Harbin City, Heilongjiang Province, China. Leaves on infected branches were chlorotic, with many raised, grey spots forming on the epidermis of diseased branches. Diseased twigs formed semi‐buried, small, spherical pycnidia, which were initially light brown and later turned dark. The pathogen was isolated and its pathogenicity was verified with Koch's postulates. Based on morphological characteristics and DNA sequence data the pathogen was identified as Aplosporella longipes. This is the first report of A. longipes in China and the first report of it causing branch blight disease of P. amurensis.
Psychometric Evaluation of the Preschool Early Numeracy Skills Test–Brief Version Within the Item Response Theory Framework
Authors: Tsigilis Nikolaos , Krousorati Katerina , Gregoriadis Athanasios , Grammatikopoulos Vasilis
Published: January 2023

The Preschool Early Numeracy Skills Test–Brief Version (PENS‐B) is a measure of early numeracy skills, developed and mainly used in the United States. The purpose of this study was to examine the factorial validity and measurement invariance across gender of PENS‐B in the Greek educational context. PENS‐B was administered to 906 preschool children (473 boys, 433 girls), randomly selected from 84 kindergarten classrooms. A 2PL unidimensional and multidimensional item response theory analysis, using cross‐validation procedures, were used to analyze the data. Results showed that responses to 20 items can be adequately explained by a two‐dimensional model (Numbering Relations and Arithmetic Operations). Application of differential item functioning procedures did not detect any gender bias. Numeracy Relation comprises 16 items, which assess low levels of this latent trait. On the other hand, four items capture average levels of Arithmetic Operations. Total information curves revealed that both dimensions measure with precision only a small area of their underlying latent trait.
Response to erenumab assessed by Headache Impact Test‐6 is modulated by genetic factors and arterial hypertension: An explorative cohort study
Authors: Zecca Chiara , Terrazzino Salvatore , Para Davide , Campagna Giovanna , Viana Michele , Schankin Christoph J. , Gobbi Claudio
Published: January 2023

Background and purpose

Response predictors to erenumab (ERE) in migraine patients would benefit their clinical management. We investigate associations between patients' clinical characteristics and polymorphisms at calcitonin receptor‐like receptor (CALCRL) and receptor activity‐modifying protein 1 (RAMP1) genes and response to ERE treatment measured as clinically meaningful improvement on the Headache Impact Test‐6 (HIT‐6) score.

Methods

This post hoc analysis of a prospective, multicenter, investigator‐initiated study involves 110 migraine patients starting ERE 70 mg/month. Demographics, medical history, and migraine‐related burden measured by HIT‐6 score were collected during 3 months before and after ERE start. Selected polymorphic variants ofCALCRLandRAMP1genes were determined using real‐time polymerase chain reaction. Logistic regression models identified independent predictors for response to ERE, defined as HIT‐6 score improvement ≥ 8 points (HIT‐6 responders [HIT‐6 RESP] vs. HIT‐6 nonresponders).

Results

At Month 3, 58 (52.7%) patients were HIT‐6 RESP. Comorbid hypertension predicted a lower probability of being HIT‐6 RESP (odds ratio [OR] = 0.160, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.047–0.548,p = 0.003). Compared to major alleles, minor allelesCALCRLrs6710852G andRAMPrs6431564G conferred an increased probability of being HIT‐6 RESP (for each G allele: OR = 2.82, 95% CI = 1.03–7.73,p = 0.043; OR = 2.10, 95% CI = 1.05–4.22,p = 0.037).RAMP1rs13386048A andRAMP1rs12465864G decreased this probability (for each rs13386048A, OR = 0.53, 95% CI = 0.28–0.98,p = 0.042; for each rs12465864G, OR = 0.32, 95% CI = 0.13–0.75,p = 0.009). A genetic risk score based on the presence and number of identified risk alleles was independently associated with HIT‐6 RESP (OR = 0.49, 95% CI = 0.33–0.72,p = 0.0003), surviving Bonferroni correction.

Conclusions

Response to ERE was associated with comorbid hypertension and specific allelic variants inCALCRLandRAMP1genes. Results require confirmation in future studies.
What do we currently know about incisional complications of colic surgery?
Authors: Kelmer Gal
Published: January 2023

It is common for horses to suffer from incisional complications after colic surgery. The complications encountered are oedema, infection, hernia and dehiscence. Oedema is a natural response to surgical trauma but when it is severe it can be associated with additional complications such as infection, hernia and dehiscence. Thus, it is worthwhile preventing marked oedema, and an abdominal bandage is an effective method for that. Infection of the incision is common, but mostly it is mild and does not require significant intervention. Many of the infections manifest after the horse is discharged from the hospital; thus, these infections are markedly underreported. Since multidrug resistance in bacteria are becoming a major problem in equine medicine, sampling the incision for monitoring is important. Hernia formation is typically preceded by incisional infection. Most hernias do not require intervention but some warrant surgical correction. The most simple and effective method to repair them is primary closure of the hernial ring followed by subcutaneous mesh implantation. By this method, one achieves both a strong body wall and a good cosmetic outlook. Complete body wall dehiscence is fortunately uncommon and is often associated with incisional infection and pregnancy. Complete body wall dehiscence usually occurs in about 5 days after surgery and is the most fatal complication. If dehiscence is noticed prior to any evisceration, conservative therapy with close monitoring and a supportive bandage is indicated and has a good chance of success. Once evisceration is noted, emergency secondary body wall closure is indicated, and the prognosis is guarded. To conclude, incisional complications are commonly encountered after colic surgery, most of them have clinically mild implications. Occasionally, these complications may become significant and even fatal. Careful attention to surgical technique and protecting the incision in the immediate post‐operative period can significantly decrease the risk of these complications.
Modeled production, oxidation, and transport processes of wetland methane emissions in temperate, boreal, and Arctic regions
Authors: Ueyama Masahito , Knox Sara H. , Delwiche Kyle B. , Bansal Sheel , Riley William J. , Baldocchi Dennis , Hirano Takashi , McNicol Gavin , Schafer Karina , Windham‐Myers Lisamarie , Poulter Benjamin , Jackson Robert B. , Chang Kuang‐Yu , Chen Jiquen , Chu Housen , Desai Ankur R. , Gogo Sébastien , Iwata Hiroki , Kang Minseok , Mammarella Ivan , Peichl Matthias , Sonnentag Oliver , Tuittila Eeva‐Stiina , Ryu Youngryel , Euskirchen Eugénie S. , Göckede Mathias , Jacotot Adrien , Nilsson Mats B. , Sachs Torsten
Published: January 2023

Wetlands are the largest natural source of methane (CH4) to the atmosphere. The eddy covariance method provides robust measurements of net ecosystem exchange of CH4, but interpreting its spatiotemporal variations is challenging due to the co‐occurrence of CH4production, oxidation, and transport dynamics. Here, we estimate these three processes using a data‐model fusion approach across 25 wetlands in temperate, boreal, and Arctic regions. Our data‐constrained model—iPEACE—reasonably reproduced CH4emissions at 19 of the 25 sites with normalized root mean square error of 0.59, correlation coefficient of 0.82, and normalized standard deviation of 0.87. Among the three processes, CH4production appeared to be the most important process, followed by oxidation in explaining inter‐site variations in CH4emissions. Based on a sensitivity analysis, CH4emissions were generally more sensitive to decreased water table than to increased gross primary productivity or soil temperature. For periods with leaf area index (LAI) of ≥20% of its annual peak, plant‐mediated transport appeared to be the major pathway for CH4transport. Contributions from ebullition and diffusion were relatively high during low LAI (<20%) periods. The lag time between CH4production and CH4emissions tended to be short in fen sites (3 ± 2 days) and long in bog sites (13 ± 10 days). Based on a principal component analysis, we found that parameters for CH4production, plant‐mediated transport, and diffusion through water explained 77% of the variance in the parameters across the 19 sites, highlighting the importance of these parameters for predicting wetland CH4emissions across biomes. These processes and associated parameters for CH4emissions among and within the wetlands provide useful insights for interpreting observed net CH4fluxes, estimating sensitivities to biophysical variables, and modeling global CH4fluxes.
The use of arts‐based methodologies and methods with young people with complex psychosocial needs: A systematic narrative review
Authors: Nathan Sally , Hodgins Michael , Wirth Jonathan , Ramirez Jacqueline , Walker Natasha , Cullen Patricia
Published: January 2023

Background

Arts‐based methodologies and methods (ABM) can elicit rich and meaningful data with seldom‐heard groups and empower participants in research. Young people with complex psychosocial needs could be better engaged in research using arts‐based approaches to overcome communication and literacy issues as well as distrust of those with power, including researchers. A critical review of the use and impact of ABM among this population is timely. The purpose of this review is to synthesize and examine the experience and use of ABM with young people with complex psychosocial needs.

Methods

A systematic narrative literature review was conducted with a search of the literature from 2009 to 2021. All abstracts were reviewed independently by two authors and full papers were screened for eligibility against inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data synthesis focused on a descriptive numerical summary and a thematic analysis focused on key patterns across papers relating to the review objectives.

Results and Discussion

A total of 25 papers were included. The most common issues of focus were mental health (n = 10) and homelessness (n = 11) and methods using Photovoice (n = 12) and Body Mapping (n = 5). Individual interview data (n = 20) were the most commonly analysed, followed by created works (n = 19). Less than half the studies involved young people in the interpretation of the data collected. Knowledge translation was not described in almost half the studies, with public exhibits (n = 7) and forums with service providers (n = 4) being the most common activities. Key themes across the studies were valued over traditional methods in eliciting data, ABM as an approach to engage these young people in research and the impact of the use of ABM on participants and on key stakeholders through knowledge translation.

Conclusions

The growing field of ABM presents opportunities to enhance research with young people with complex psychosocial needs by promoting meaningful exploration of experiences, engaging participants in research and strengthening knowledge translation. The involvement of young people in the interpretation of data and ensuring that knowledge translation occurs are key areas for future attention.

Patient or Public Contribution

The findings of this review will inform future research to improve the engagement of young people with complex psychosocial needs in research and promote power sharing between researchers and research participants.
Assessment of knowledge, attitude and practice of medical and dental students about maintaining and disinfecting toothbrushes
Authors: Rajabzadeh Majid , Hajian‐Tilaki Karimollah , Ghasempour Maryam
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Proper toothbrush care and maintenance play an important role in oral health. This study aimed to investigate the knowledge, attitude and practice of medical and dental students regarding the maintenance and disinfection of toothbrushes.

Method

This cross‐sectional descriptive study examined 824 medical and dental students of Babol University of Medical Sciences, Babol, Iran. Data were collected using a researcher‐made questionnaire and analysed using chi‐square test and independent t‐test. The level of statistical significance was considered to be <0.05.

Results

Nearly 63.7% of the students had a good level of knowledge regarding toothbrush maintenance, 62.2% had a positive attitude toward toothbrush care, and 53.7% had a good practice. The mean scores of knowledge, attitude, and practice were significantly higher in dental, clinical, and female students as compared to medical, preclinical, and male students, respectively. Based on the results, about 54.3% of the students kept their toothbrushes outside the bathroom; 68% kept them vertically with the bristles upright; and 54% kept them in a separate container. Also, 50.6% of the students believed that toothbrush disinfection was necessary, while 31.9% believed that only certain groups of people needed toothbrush disinfection.

Conclusion

This study indicated the moderate level of knowledge, attitude, and practice of medical and dental students in maintaining and disinfecting their toothbrushes. The students' oral health habits were also at a moderate level; therefore, further improvements seem essential. To achieve this goal, educational intervention programs need to be developed in the future.
Development of a polyallylamine hydrochloride hydrogel imprinted with xylose for the purification of xylose from sugar mixture
Authors: Liu Jia , Song Qianyi , Li Youxin , Bao James J.
Published: January 2023

A novel molecularly imprinted hydrogel (X‐MIP) was developed with poly (allylamine hydrochloride) as monomer and epichlorohydrin as crosslinker. After optimising preparation conditions including reaction temperature, the amount of NaOH and template xylose, the X‐MIP was characterised through Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscope and swelling ratio. Xylose and glucose were employed to evaluate the adsorption capacity and selectivity of the X‐MIP. Its adsorption to xylose followed pseudo‐second‐order rate kinetics and the adsorption process was multilayer adsorption based on the matched Freundlich isotherm model. Its adsorption capacity to xylose was up to 398.68 mg g−1. The similar adsorption abilities in five successive runs and the good desorption rate (98.9%) verified its reusability. The selectivity for xylose and glucose could reach 4.70, and their separation factors in simulated xylitol production feedstocks were 591.05 (xylose:glucose, 99:1) and 15.42 (xylose:glucose, 3:1), respectively. Results indicated the prepared X‐MIP has good potential in industrial xylose purification.
Effect of chestnut flour fortification on physico‐chemical characteristics of gluten‐free fresh pasta
Authors: Alinovi Marcello , Paciulli Maria , Rinaldi Massimiliano , Barbanti Davide , Chiavaro Emma
Published: January 2023

Gluten‐free (GF) products are typically characterised by lower nutritional and functional quality compared to gluten‐containing counterparts. In the last years, several studies have tried to improve the nutritional characteristics of GF products by the utilisation of alternative ingredients. In this work, the effect of three levels of chestnut flour (CF) supplementation (20, 30, 40%) on the physico‐chemical, sensory characteristics of raw and cooked GF fresh pasta, were investigated. CF showed higher water absorption properties (water binding capacity, solubility, absorption indexes) than the commercial GF mix used as control. In pasta, substitution of GF mix with CF caused a reduction in water activity and amount of freezable water due to stronger interaction of water molecules with CF components (sugars, starches, proteins). Increasing levels of CF also delivered darker, browner colour and a softer texture; the latter was also probably related to the greater cooking loss of CF, indicating a less organised network for the CF‐enriched samples compared to the control. CF also improved the antioxidant capacity, due to the presence of bioactives in chestnut integuments. CF represents a valuable ingredient for the manufacturing of functional GF pasta, more appreciated in this study at a substitution level of 30% and 40%.
The regulation of N6‐methyladenosine modification in PD‐L1‐induced anti‐tumor immunity
Authors: Yu Wei , Lin Jinti , Yu Tao , Lou Jianan , Qian Chao , Xu Ankai , Liu Bing , Tao Huimin , Jin Libin
Published: January 2023

There is growing evidence that programmed death ligand‐1 (PD‐L1) has exciting therapeutic efficacy in hematological malignancy and partial solid tumors. However, many patients still face failure with the treatment of immune checkpoint blockade because of PD‐L1 expression regulation during transcription and post‐transcription processes, including N6‐methyladenosine (m6A). Similar to the epigenetic regulation in DNA and histones, recent research has revealed the essential regulation of m6A modification in RNA nuclear export, metabolism and translation. Recent studies have shown that m6A‐induced PD‐L1 expression emerges as one of the main reasons for the immunological alteration in this process and contributes to the failure of T cell‐induced anti‐tumor immunity. The results of preclinical studies demonstrate the potential of m6A‐targeted therapy in combination with immune checkpoint blockade. The comprehensive expression of m6A‐related genes also provided the possibility to indicate the prognosis and to optimize the treatment for patients of various cancer types. In this review, we focus on the m6A modification in PD‐L1 mRNA as well as the regulation of PD‐L1 expression in cancer cells and summarize its clinical value in anti‐PD‐L1 cancer immune therapy.
Transmucosal abutments in the esthetic zone: Surgical and prosthetic considerations
Authors: Gamborena Iñaki , Sasaki Yoshihiro , Blatz Markus B.
Published: January 2023

Objective

This article describes an updated step‐by‐step protocol for transmucosal abutment selection and treatment sequencing after immediate implant placement in the esthetic zone.

Clinical Considerations

Current surgical and prosthetic concepts strive to preserve hard and soft‐tissues to provide optimal esthetics at the implant‐abutment interface. Consequently, restoring implants in the esthetic zone with transmucosal abutments presents a great challenge and must take into consideration implant depth, angulation, and bucco‐lingual position as well as transmucosal height and space for an optimized emergence profile of the restoration and the dimensions of the anterior tooth to be restored. The proper selection of the type, shape, and dimensions of implant components and connections, determined by the product portfolio offered by the implant manufacturer, play a critical role in the ability to adequately address these challenges. This article provides an update on surgical and prosthetic workflows for single implant restorations in the esthetic zone.

Conclusions

Following esthetic, mechanical, and biologic principles, the long‐term success of implant‐supported restorations in the esthetic zone is directly correlated to proper execution and sequencing of surgical and prosthetic treatment steps, especially after immediate implant placement. These steps must be critically assessed based on the current scientific evidence to achieve the desired clinical outcomes on a predictable and consistent basis.

Clinical Significance

Selection of surgical and prosthetic treatment protocols to achieve ideal esthetic outcomes and emergence profiles in implant dentistry is often a great challenge, not only determined by technical and clinical skills of the provider but also by the type and dimensions of implant components and connections offered by the manufacturer. Following certain decision‐making principles and workflows are key for clinical success with implant‐supported restorations after immediate implant placement the esthetic zone.
Nocardia seriolae cell wall lipids: An effective protective mechanism in resistance and virulence
Authors: Nazareth Sandra Celenia , Rao Shreesha , Cheng Li‐Wu , Wang Pei‐Chi , Chen Shih‐Chu
Published: January 2023

Piscine nocardiosis, caused by Nocardia seriolae, is a refractory granulomatous disease in South‐East Asian aquaculture. This study investigates the virulence of nocardial lipids essential for pathogenesis among Actinomycetes. Petroleum ether (PE) was used to selectively delipidate two groups of N. seriolae, namely, live cell (LC) and killed cell (KC); resulting in delipidated live cell (DLC) and delipidated killed cell (DKC), respectively. Changes post‐delipidation on genus characteristics, such as loss in acid‐fast nature and resistance to lysozyme were observed. Transmission electron microscopy revealed notable changes in the lipid layer. Additionally, Lates calcarifer, Asian seabass intraperitoneally injected with LC and DLC had mortality rates of 90% and 50%, respectively, with the latter exhibiting a delay in mortality. Reverse‐transcription quantitative PCR (RT‐qPCR) analysis of host cytokines from the spleen and head kidney showed delipidation contributed to the induction of an immune response with increased transcriptional levels of interferon‐γ (ifn‐γ). Histopathological samples collected on day 7 post‐inoculation displayed a varied granulomatous response between the treatment groups and scored for pathological changes. These findings affirm that the virulence of the lipids remains independent of the living state of the cell, significantly altering the immune and granulomatous responses in L. calcarifer to N. seriolae.
Cariogenic diet consumption during lockdown
Authors: Mafla Ana C. , De La Cruz‐Rosero Geraldine , Vallejo‐Rosero Héctor W. , Argoty‐Rodríguez Jorge A. , Schwendicke Falk
Published: January 2023

Background

During stressful situations such as pandemic‐associated lockdowns, individuals' diets may change towards (cariogenic) ‘comfort food’. This study assessed the dietary patterns during the lockdown in the Colombian population.

Methods

A cross‐sectional online survey was designed. A convenience sample of 489 adults was drawn, with 50% of them being in COVID‐19 lockdown and the other being not or only partially in lockdown. The questionnaire collected data about the type and frequency of food consumed, with a special focus on cariogenic (i.e., rich in free sugars and starches) food. Descriptive analyses were performed, and a generalised linear model was estimated to predict the frequency of cariogenic diet consumption in this period of time.

Results

Sweet whole wheat bread (38.2%, p = 0.005), flavoured milk (26.4%, p = 0.002), sugar‐sweetened bubble gums (39.8%, p = 0.001), toffees (35.4%, p = 0.004), soft candies (e.g., gums) (35.4%, p = 0.018), chocolates (55.3%, p = 0.017), filled doughnuts (28.5%, p = 0.013) or grapes (51.2%, p = 0.002) were significantly consumed more during the lockdown. Multivariable generalised linear modelling showed being single, having children and being in lockdown were significantly associated with higher frequency of cariogenic food consumption.

Conclusions

Lockdown was found to be associated with detrimentally altered food consumption patterns and, specifically, a more cariogenic diet. Healthcare professionals should consider this when reopening services, and political decision‐makers may want to reflect on the unwarranted side effect of lockdown.
Hybrid reflected‐ultrasound computed tomography versus B‐mode‐ultrasound for muscle scoring in spinal muscular atrophy
Authors: Danko Vera , Jüngert Jörg , Schuessler Stephanie , Buehler Adrian , Klett Daniel , Federle Anna , Roos Andreas , Lochmüller Hanns , Neurath Markus F. , Woelfle Joachim , Trollmann Regina , Waldner Maximilian J. , Knieling Ferdinand , Regensburger Adrian P. , Wagner Alexandra L.
Published: January 2023

Background and Purpose

Novel light‐ and sound‐based technologies like multispectral optoacoustic tomography (MSOT) with co‐registered reflected‐ultrasound computed tomography (RUCT) could add additional value to conventional ultrasound (US) for disease phenotyping in pediatric spinal muscular atrophy (SMA). The aim of this study was to investigate the quality of RUCT compared to US for qualitative and quantitative assessment of imaging neuromuscular disorders.

Methods

Subanalyzing the MSOT SMA study, 288 RUCT and 276 US images from 10 SMA patients (mean age 9.0 ± 3.7) and 10 gender‐ and age‐matched healthy volunteers (HV; mean age 8.7 ± 4.3) were analyzed for quantitative (grayscale levels [GSLs]) and qualitative (echogenicity, distribution pattern, Heckmatt scale, and muscle texture) muscle changes. RUCT and US measures were further correlated with clinical standard motor outcomes.

Results

Quantitative agreement using GSLs revealed significantly higher GSLs in muscles of SMA patients compared to healthy muscles in both techniques (US mean GSL [SD] SMA vs. HV: 110.70 [27.8] vs. 68.85 [19.2], p < .0001; RUCT mean GSL [SD] SMA vs. HV: 91.81 [21.8] vs. 59.86 [8.2], p < .0001) with good correlation with motor outcome tests, respectively. Qualitative agreement between methods for muscle composition was excellent for differentiation of pathological versus healthy muscles, echogenicity, and distribution pattern, moderate for Heckmatt scale, and poor for muscle texture.

Conclusions

The data suggest that RUCT may allow the assessment of basic qualitative and quantitative measures for muscular diseases with comparable results to conventional US.
Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D concentrations in dogs with coccidioidomycosis and variables associated with extent of clinically evident disease
Authors: Jaffey Jared A. , Kreisler Rachael , Shubitz Lisa F. , Backus Robert C. , Hostnik Eric T. , Wycislo Kathryn L. , Monasky Ross , Schaffer Magen , Holland Cyndi
Published: January 2023

Background

Clinicopathologic variables predictive of disseminated coccidioidomycosis are known in humans but have not been explored in dogs. Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin (OH)D correlates with severity of disease of various etiologies in dogs but its role in coccidioidomycosis is unknown.

Objective

Determine whether serum 25(OH)D concentrations are different in dogs with coccidioidomycosis compared with healthy controls and if clinicopathologic variables are associated with extent of disease.

Animals

Thirty‐five dogs with coccidioidomycosis (pulmonary, n = 13; disseminated, n = 15; uncharacterized, n = 7), and 25 healthy control dogs.

Methods

Prospective cohort study. Serum 25(OH)D and C‐reactive protein (CRP) concentrations were measured with modified‐HPLC and a commercial ELISA kit, respectively.

Results

There was no difference in 25(OH)D concentrations between dogs with coccidioidomycosis (median, interquartile range [IQR]; 31.9 ng/mL, 23.3‐49.2) and controls (29.5 ng/mL, 25.6‐40.8, P = .73). Serum 25(OH)D concentration was lower in dogs with coccidioidomycosis and IgG titers ≥1:32 than dogs with titers below this cut‐off (P = .02). Dogs with IgG titers ≥1:32 were more likely to have disseminated disease (OR, 7.5; 95% CI: 1.1‐68; P = .03). Serum CRP concentrations were higher in dogs with IgG titers ≥1:16 (median, IQR; 4474.8 ng/mL, 2885.8‐8236.1) than in those below this cut‐off (151.2 ng/mL, 30.4‐2907.3; P = .02). There was a significant inverse association between serum 25(OH)D and CRP at 25(OH)D concentrations ≤33 ng/mL.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Serum 25(OH)D concentration was lower for dogs with IgG titers ≥1:32, indicating a potential association between semi‐quantitative titers and 25(OH)D concentrations in dogs with coccidioidomycosis. IgG titers ≥1:32 yielded higher odds of disseminated disease, but was inadequate as a standalone test to determine form of disease.
Ampicillin exacerbates acetaminophen‐induced acute liver injury by inducing intestinal microbiota imbalance and butyrate reduction
Authors: Li Zhan‐Ming , Kong Chao‐Yue , Mao Yu‐Qin , Huang Jia‐Ting , Chen Hui‐Ling , Han Bing , Wang Li‐Shun
Published: January 2023

Background and Aims

Antibiotics (ATBx) and acetaminophen (APAP) are widely used worldwide. APAP is the most common cause of acute liver injury (ALI) and might be used in combination with ATBx in clinics. However, the impact of ATBx on APAP‐induced ALI has rarely been studied.

Methods

First, we compared the effects of seven ATBx on APAP‐induced ALI. Then, we analysed faecal, serum and liver samples to investigate the impact of the gut microbiota on this process. Finally, we assessed the role of short‐chain fatty acids in this process.

Results

In this work, we found that the ALI was significantly aggravated in the mice treated with ampicillin (Amp) instead of other ATBx. Amp exposure reduced the diversity and altered the composition of gut microbiota. The altered gut microbiota aggravated APAP‐induced ALF, which was proven by faecal microbiota transplantation from ATBx‐treated mice. Metagenomic analysis showed a significantly decreased Lactobacillus abundance in Amp‐treated mice. Gavage with Lactobacillus, especially Lactobacillus rhamnosus, significantly reversed the severer ALF induced by APAP and Amp. Moreover, Lactobacillus supplementation increased butyrate‐producing clostridia and lowered butyrate levels in Amp‐treated mice. In accordance, butyrate supplementation could also alleviate Amp‐aggravated ALI. In addition, inhibition of nuclear factor erythroid 2–related factor 2 counteracted the protective effect of butyrate on aggravated ALI induced by Amp and APAP.

Conclusion

Together, this study revealed a potential health impact of Amp that may exacerbate liver damage when co‐exposed to excess APAP.
In memoriam: Marco Avellaneda (1955–2022)
Authors: Cont Rama
Published: January 2023

Marco Avellaneda (1955–2022) was a leading figure in the development of mathematical modeling in finance and its dissemination among market practitioners. We provide a sketch of his trajectory and outline some of his main research contributions to mathematical finance.
Secretory carcinoma of the palate: A case report and review of literature
Authors: Ju Sang‐Hyun , Park Kwan‐Soo , Kim Gyu‐Rang
Published: January 2023

Secretory carcinoma of the salivary gland is a newly introduced malignant tumour with histological and molecular characteristics similar to those of secretory carcinoma of the breast. Secretory carcinoma of the salivary glands and breast have an ETV6‐NTRK3 fusion gene with translocation t(12;15)(p13;q25). Most of them occur in the parotid gland and rarely in the minor salivary glands. A patient visited our hospital with a mass on the hard palate that had been present for more than 10 years. Treatment included wide resection, and no additional neck dissection or radiotherapy was performed. The final diagnosis was secretory carcinoma. Two years after surgery, no evidence of recurrence was noted. According to the literature to date, the treatment of secretory carcinoma of the palate is not significantly different from that of other low‐grade minor salivary gland tumours. Molecular testing is the gold standard for the diagnosis of secretory carcinoma; however, morphological features and immunohistochemistry could be sufficient to make a final diagnosis. Long‐term follow‐up data on this tumour are insufficient, thus warranting continuous follow‐up studies.