bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Robotic pancreatic tumor enucleation by the double bipolar technique using the da Vinci SP system: An initial case report with a technical detail
Authors: Uchida Yuichiro , Takahara Takeshi , Nishimura Akihiro , Mii Satoshi , Mizumoto Takuya , Iwama Hideaki , Kojima Masayuki , Uyama Ichiro , Suda Koichi
Published: December 2023

Pancreatic tumor enucleation is a procedure that can preserve pancreatic function and is sometimes performed using a minimally invasive approach. Recently, a single‐port robotic platform called da Vinci SP has been developed. However, the technical details of pancreatic tumor enucleation using da Vinci SP have not been reported to date. We report a male patient in his 70s who underwent robotic SP pancreatic tumor enucleation for a pancreatic neuroendocrine tumor. The dissection between the tumor and pancreatic parenchyma was performed using the double bipolar technique. The operative time was 139 min, and the estimated blood loss was 4 mL. The patient had an uneventful recovery and was discharged on the sixth day after the surgery. Robotic SP pancreatic tumor enucleation appears to be a feasible procedure with lower invasiveness and better cosmesis.
A tribute to the late Dr. W. Michael Hoffman: Putting business ethics theory into practice
Authors: Schwartz Mark S.
Published: December 2023

This article is a tribute to the late Dr. W. Michael Hoffman's life and professional career (1943–2018), including his important contribution to the business ethics academic community, as well as to the practical world of business. Following a brief summary of Dr. Hoffman's professional achievements, several tributes are provided including from Professor Richard De George, columnist Gael O'Brien, and Professor Patricia Werhane. The tributes are followed by synopses of a small sample of Dr. Hoffman's many journal articles published in several different business ethics journals spanning 35 years (1982–2017). The tribute concludes with a personal note of gratitude by the author to Dr. Hoffman.
Histone methyltransferase SUV420H1/KMT5B contributes to poor prognosis in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Kato Hirotaka , Hayami Shinya , Ueno Masaki , Suzaki Norihiko , Nakamura Masashi , Yoshimura Tomohiro , Miyamoto Atsushi , Shigekawa Yoshinobu , Okada Ken‐Ichi , Miyazawa Motoki , Kitahata Yuji , Ehata Shogo , Hamamoto Ryuji , Yamaue Hiroki , Kawai Manabu
Published: December 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) has a high rate of recurrence and poor prognosis, even after curative surgery. Multikinase inhibitors have been applied for HCC patients, but their effect has been restricted. This study aims to clarify the clinical impact of SUV420H1/KMT5B, one of the methyltransferases for histone H4 at lysine 20, and elucidate the novel mechanisms of HCC progression. We retrospectively investigated SUV420H1 expression using HCC clinical tissue samples employing immunohistochemical analysis (n = 350). We then performed loss‐of‐function analysis of SUV420H1 with cell cycle analysis, migration assay, invasion assay and RNA sequence for Gene Ontology (GO) pathway analysis in vitro, and animal experiments with xenograft mice in vivo. The SUV420H1‐high‐score group (n = 154) had significantly poorer prognosis for both 5‐year overall and 2‐year/5‐year disease‐free survival than the SUV420H1‐low‐score group (n = 196) (p < 0.001 and p < 0.05, respectively). The SUV420H1‐high‐score group had pathologically larger tumor size, more tumors, poorer differentiation, and more positive vascular invasion than the SUV420H1‐low‐score group. Multivariate analysis demonstrated that SUV420H1 high score was the poorest independent factor for overall survival. SUV420H1 knockdown could suppress cell cycle from G1 to S phase and cell invasion. GO pathway analysis showed that SUV420H1 contributed to cell proliferation, cell invasion, and/or metastasis. Overexpression of SUV420H1 clinically contributed to poor prognosis in HCC, and the inhibition of SUV420H1 could repress tumor progression and invasion both in vitro and in vivo; thus, further analyses of SUV420H1 are necessary for the discovery of future molecularly targeted drugs.
Reflexive thematic analysis of a coaching‐based, holistic approach to child development
Authors: Sehajpal Khushi , McCrostie Claire , Charles Lucy , Hamill Arul , Terei Pio , Hamill James
Published: December 2023

Background

The F‐words Life Wheel (FWLW) approaches child development by hybridizing a holistic model in the F‐words for Child Development, and a coaching model in Occupational Performance Coaching, along with a life‐flow approach in the Kawa model. We report the impact of the FWLW as experienced by families.

Methods

This was a qualitative interview study of parents of children with developmental needs and experts in child development using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

From 13 interviews, we developed three themes: 1) overwhelming, 2) power rebalance and 3) connectedness. The overwhelming theme addresses how life with developmental needs is challenging, engaging with the health and disability system is difficult and the focus on deficits can lead to a sense of being overwhelmed. The power rebalance theme addresses the transition from professionals calling the shots to giving agency to the child and family. Holistic goal setting empowers parents and children to direct and prioritize therapy, and helps shift from a deficit‐focused to a ‘can‐do’ attitude. The connectedness theme addresses the linkages between psychological health, physical health, the extended family and the planet as a whole.

Conclusions

The FWLW approach appears to be empowering and motivating for children and families.
Neurotropic virus infection and neurodegenerative diseases: Potential roles of autophagy pathway
Authors: Zhao Yu‐jia , Xu Kai‐fei , Shu Fu‐xing , Zhang Feng
Published: December 2023

Neurodegenerative diseases (NDs) constitute a group of disorders characterized by the progressive deterioration of nervous system functionality. Currently, the precise etiological factors responsible for NDs remain incompletely elucidated, although it is probable that a combination of aging, genetic predisposition, and environmental stressors participate in this process. Accumulating evidence indicates that viral infections, especially neurotropic viruses, can contribute to the onset and progression of NDs. In this review, emerging evidence supporting the association between viral infection and NDs is summarized, and how the autophagy pathway mediated by viral infection can cause pathological aggregation of cellular proteins associated with various NDs is discussed. Furthermore, autophagy‐related genes (ARGs) involved in Herpes simplex virus (HSV‐1) infection and NDs are analyzed, and whether these genes could link HSV‐1 infection to NDs is discussed. Elucidating the mechanisms underlying NDs is critical for developing targeted therapeutic approaches that prevent the onset and slow the progression of NDs.
The characteristics of excitatory lineage differentiation and the developmental conservation in Reeler neocortex
Authors: Deng Huan‐Huan , Tong Shi‐Yuan , Shen Dan , Zhang Shu‐Qing , Fu Yinghui
Published: December 2023

The majority of neocortical projection neurons are generated indirectly from radial glial cells (RGCs) mediated by intermediate progenitor cells (IPCs) in mice. IPCs are thought to be a great breakthrough in the evolutionary expansion of the mammalian neocortex. However, the precise ratio of neuron production from IPCs and characteristics of RGC differentiation process are still unclear. Our study revealed that direct neurogenesis was seldom observed and increased slightly at late embryonic stage. Besides, we conducted retrovirus sparse labelling combined carboxyfluorescein diacetate succinimide ester (CFSE) and Tbr2‐CreER strain to reconstruct individual lineage tree in situ. The lineage trees simulated the output of RGCs at per round of division in sequence with high temporal, spatial and cellular resolution at P7. We then demonstrated that only 1.90% of neurons emanated from RGCs directly in mouse cerebral neocortex and 79.33% of RGCs contributed to the whole clones through IPCs. The contribution of indirect neurogenesis was underestimated previously because approximately a quarter of IPC‐derived neurons underwent apoptosis. Here, we also showed that abundant IPCs from first‐generation underwent self‐renewing division and generated four neurons ultimately. We confirmed that the intermediate proliferative progenitors expressed higher Cux2 characteristically at early embryonic stage. Finally, we validated that the characteristics of neurogenetic process in lineages and developmental fate of neurons were conserved in Reeler mice. This study contributes to further understanding of neurogenesis in neocortical development.
DNA image cytometry of bronchial washing as a diagnostic adjunct to radial endobronchial ultrasound‐guided sampling of peripheral lung lesions: A single center prospective study
Authors: Guo Cuiyan , Zhang Qi , Hu Yan , Huang Junfang , Wang Shixuan , Wang Guangfa
Published: December 2023

Objective

The objective of this study is to study the adjunct role of combining DNA aneuploidy analysis with radial endobronchial ultrasound (R‐EBUS)‐guided sampling for diagnosis of peripheral lung lesions (PPLs).

Method

A single‐center prospective study was conducted in patients undergoing R‐EBUS‐guided sampling for PPLs. DNA image cytometry (DNA‐ICM) was used to analyze DNA aneuploidy in bronchial washing from the bronchial segment of the PPL. Clinical information, R‐EBUS data, pathology, DNA‐ICM results, and follow‐up data were analyzed. Sensitivity, specificity, and predictive values for R‐EBUS‐guided sampling, DNA‐ICM, and the two methods combined were measured. Binary logistic regression was performed to determine influencing factors on diagnostic positivity rate. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve analysis was used to determine the optimal cutoff point for DNA‐ICM.

Results

A total of 101 patients were enrolled. Sixty‐four (63.4%) patients had confirmed malignant tumor, of whom 33 were confirmed by R‐EBUS‐guided sampling (biopsy and/or bronchial brush and wash cytology), and 31 by surgery or percutaneous lung biopsy. Thirty‐seven patients were finally considered to have benign lesions, based on clinical information and 1‐year follow‐up. The sensitivity for malignant disease was 51.6% by R‐EBUS, and specificity was 100%. DNA‐ICM had a sensitivity of 67.2% and a specificity of 86.5%. When combining the two methods, sensitivity increased to 78.1% and specificity was 86.5%. Lesion size and whether the R‐EBUS probe was located in the lesion were significantly associated with positivity rate of the combined methods. The optimal cutoff point for DNA‐ICM was 5c for max DNA content, and 1 for aneuploid cell count (sensitivity 67.2%, specificity 86.5%, accuracy 63.4%).

Conclusion

In malignant PPLs, DNA‐ICM combined with R‐EBUS‐guided sampling can improve diagnostic positivity compared with either method alone.
Apocrine cystadenoma: A long‐standing apocrine hidrocystoma with an adenomatous proliferation
Authors: Connolly Deirdre M. , McGeehin Eleni L. , Lee Jason B.
Published: December 2023

Background

Apocrine cystadenoma is a rare, benign adenomatous cystic neoplasm, the pathogenesis of which is not fully understood. We sought to characterize the clinical, dermatoscopic, and histopathologic features of apocrine cystadenoma and its relationship to hidrocystoma.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed cases of apocrine cystadenoma and hidrocystoma retrieved from the dermatopathology laboratory information system.

Results

Of the 350 cases apocrine cystic lesions, 13 cases of apocrine cystadenomas met the inclusion criteria. The age ranged from 20 to 84 years with an average of 64 years. They were long‐standing (duration 3–15 years), slow‐growing, large tumors usually found on the scalp. Dermatoscopy accentuated translucent light to dark blue color and prominent vessels that were present more at the periphery. All lesions were multilocular with columnar to cuboidal lining and decapitation secretion. A large portion of the lesion consisted of a simple nonproliferative epithelial lining, identical to that observed in apocrine hidrocystomas, while the proliferative adenomatous component made up a smaller portion with two patterns: (1) tubular proliferation, which either protruded into the cystic cavity or expanded outward peripherally, or (2) papillary projections, which were multiple layers thick with fibrovascular core, sometimes accompanied by tubular proliferation. Immunohistochemical stains showed strong staining for p40 and a sparse number of cells stained for Ki‐67 and p53.

Conclusions

The long duration of the lesion and the large areas of simple apocrine epithelial lining suggest that apocrine cystadenomas arise from long‐standing apocrine hidrocystomas. However, the retrospective nature of the study from a single institution is a limitation.
Cutaneous eccrine spiradenoma: Insights into cytomorphological features via fine needle aspiration biopsy and a comprehensive literature review
Authors: Shaker Nada , Vohra Poonam , Li Zaibo , Sangueza Omar P. , Abid Abdul
Published: December 2023

Eccrine spiradenoma (ES) is an uncommon and benign adnexal tumour originating from sweat glands. The cytological examination of ES poses a diagnostic challenge, as it can be mistaken for various benign and malignant basaloid skin neoplasms. The cytomorphologic features of ES are infrequently documented in existing literature. This study seeks to present a thorough exploration of the cytomorphologic traits associated with ES, accompanied by an analysis of ancillary testing that contribute to the accurate identification of this entity in cytological specimens.

Eccrine spiradenoma is infrequently encountered in fine needle aspiration (FNA) cytopathology, and the available literature on its cytomorphologic features is limited. The challenge arises from its similarity to other benign and malignant dermal basaloid neoplasms, emphasizing the critical role of clinicopathologic correlation and immunohistochemical staining in achieving a precise diagnosis.
Entwicklung der Patientencharakteristika und der Wirksamkeit der Biologika‐Therapie bei Patienten des Österreichischen Psoriasis‐Registers von 2004 bis 2022
Authors: Graier Thomas , Salmhofer Wolfgang , Jonak Constanze , Weger Wolfgang , Zikeli Claudia , Gruber Barbara , Sator Paul , Prillinger Knut , Mlynek Alexander , Schütz‐Bergmayr Martina , Richter Leo , Ratzinger Gudrun , Sassmann Christoph , Painsi Clemens , Häring Nina , Wippel‐Slupetzky Katharina , Skvara Hans , Trattner Hannes , Inzinger Martin , Bangert Christina , Ellersdorfer Christina , Falkensteiner Katharina , Sadoghi Birgit , Gruber‐Wackernagel Alexandra , Hofer Angelika , Legat Franz , Lange‐Asschenfeldt Bernhard , Schmuth Matthias , Vujic Igor , Hötzenecker Wolfram , Saxinger Werner , Müllegger Robert , Quehenberger Franz , Wolf Peter
Published: December 2023

Hintergrund und Ziele

In dieser Studie wurde untersucht, inwieweit die Einführung wirksamerer Medikamente in jüngster Zeit zu einer Verbesserung der Behandlungsergebnisse von Psoriasis‐Patienten im klinischen Alltag geführt hat.

Patienten und Methodik

Es wurden Patientencharakteristika und die Wirksamkeit der Therapie im ersten Behandlungsjahr bei Biologika‐naiven Patienten von 2004 bis heute analysiert, unabhängig von Therapiewechseln.

Ergebnisse

Die Daten von 2729 Patienten eigneten sich für die Analyse. Der Anteil der weiblichen Patienten stieg über die Jahre signifikant von 29,9% auf 36,2% (p < 0,028), während der Anteil der Patienten mit einer Psoriasis‐Arthritis von 36,6% auf 30,0% sank (p < 0,001). Außerdem nahm die Dauer der Psoriasis‐Erkrankung und der PASI‐Wert zu Beginn der Behandlung in Verlauf der Zeit signifikant ab. Die „letzte Beobachtung übernommen“ (LOCF)‐Analyse zeigte, dass das PASI‐90‐Ansprechen drei Monate nach Therapiebeginn von 18,9% auf 44,6% und 12 Monate nach Therapiebeginn von 32,9% auf 66,8% anstieg. Ebenso stiegen die PASI<3 Befunde von 33,2% auf 66,0% 3 Monate und von 41,9% auf 78,9% 12 Monate nach Behandlungsbeginn.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die kontinuierliche Einführung wirksamerer Biologika hat zu einer deutlichen Verbesserung des klinischen Ansprechens und der Patientenversorgung geführt. Dennoch erreicht auch heute noch, je nach gewähltem Endpunkt, jeder dritte bis fünfte Patient kein vollständig zufriedenstellendes Behandlungsergebnis (d.h. PASI 90 oder PASI ≤ 3).
Moderne Diagnostik und Therapie des Merkelzellkarzinoms
Authors: Weilandt Juliane , Peitsch Wiebke K.
Published: December 2023

Das Merkelzellkarzinom (MCC) ist ein seltener, aggressiver Hauttumor mit epithelialer und neuroendokriner Differenzierung, dessen Inzidenz in den letzten Jahrzehnten deutlich zugenommen hat. Risikofaktoren sind fortgeschrittenes Lebensalter, heller Hauttyp, UV‐Exposition und Immunsuppression. Pathogenetisch wird ein durch das Merkelzell‐Polyomavirus (MCPyV) hervorgerufener Typ von einem UV‐induzierten Typ mit hoher Tumormutationslast unterschieden.

Klinisch präsentiert sich das MCC als meist schmerzloser, schnell wachsender, rötlich‐violetter Tumor mit glänzender Oberfläche, der bevorzugt im Kopf‐Hals‐Bereich und an den distalen Extremitäten lokalisiert ist. Eine sichere Diagnose kann nur anhand histologischer und immunhistochemischer Merkmale gestellt werden. Bei Erstdiagnose weisen 20%–26% der Patienten lokoregionäre Metastasen und 8%–14% Fernmetastasen auf, weshalb eine Ausbreitungsdiagnostik unabdingbar ist. Bei fehlenden klinischen Hinweisen auf Metastasen wird eine Sentinel‐Lymphknotenbiopsie empfohlen.

Wesentliche Säulen der Therapie sind die Operation, die adjuvante oder palliative Strahlentherapie und in fortgeschrittenen inoperablen Stadien die medikamentöse Tumortherapie. Die Einführung von Immuncheckpoint‐Inhibitoren führte zu einem Paradigmenwechsel, da sich hiermit ein wesentlich langfristigeres Ansprechen und bessere Überlebensraten als mit Chemotherapie erreichen lassen. Zur Therapie des metastasierten MCC ist in Deutschland der PD‐L1‐Inhibitor Avelumab zugelassen, aber auch die PD‐1‐Antikörper Pembrolizumab und Nivolumab werden mit Erfolg eingesetzt. Adjuvante und neoadjuvante Therapiekonzepte, Immunkombinationstherapien und zielgerichtete Therapien als Monotherapie oder in Kombination mit Immuncheckpoint‐Inhibitoren befinden sich in klinischer Prüfung.
VEXAS‐Syndrom, eine neu beschriebene autoinflammatorische Systemerkrankung mit dermatologischen Manifestationen
Authors: Baur Vera , Stoevesandt Johanna , Hueber Axel , Hüffmeier Ulrike , Kneitz Hermann , Morbach Henner , Schultz Erwin , Goebeler Matthias
Published: December 2023

Das VEXAS‐Syndrom ist eine kürzlich erstbeschriebene autoinflammatorische Systemerkrankung, die auf einer erworbenen, somatischen Mutation des X‐chromosomal lokalisierten UBA1‐Gens, dem Schlüsselenzym des ersten Schritts der Ubiquitinierung, beruht. Das Akronym VEXAS steht für die Charakteristika Vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X‐linked, autoinflammatory und somatic. Die Erkrankung tritt im fortgeschrittenen Erwachsenenalter vorzugsweise bei Männern auf und ist insbesondere durch hämatologische, rheumatologische und dermatologische Symptome gekennzeichnet. Letztere umfassen unter anderem neutrophilenreiche, an das Sweet‐Syndrom erinnernde Läsionen, Erythema nodosum‐ und Pannikulitis‐artige Hauterscheinungen sowie rezidivierende Polychondritiden an Nase und Ohrmuscheln. Das Vorliegen zytoplasmatischer Vakuolen in myeloiden und erythroiden Vorläuferzellen des Knochenmarks ist charakteristisch. In bis zur Hälfte der Fälle ist das VEXAS‐Syndrom mit einem myelodysplastischen Syndrom vergesellschaftet. Dermatologen sollten das Krankheitsbild kennen, da Hauterscheinungen oft der erste Indikator für die Erkrankung sind. Eine molekulare Diagnostik ist essenziell für die Diagnosesicherung und die Risikostratifizierung betroffener Patienten. In dieser Arbeit geben wir einen Überblick über die Pathophysiologie, Diagnostik und Therapie des VEXAS‐Syndroms und illustrieren das klinische Spektrum anhand zweier eigener Fälle.
Considering species functional and phylogenetic rarity in the conservation of fish biodiversity
Authors: Lin Li , Liu Yang , Lin Hungdu , Kang Bin
Published: December 2023

Aim

Rare species make substantial contributions to coastal ecosystem functions. Functional rarity (FR) and phylogenetic rarity (PR) are important features for biodiversity conservation. This work aimed to discuss the necessity and reasonableness of conserving fish FR and PR in coastal seas.

Location

China.

Methods

By compiling historical fish investigation data, joint species distribution modelling (JSDM) was applied to model fish communities in coastal China Seas. Biogeographic patterns of FR and PR were explored, and the effectiveness of current MPA networks in terms of match/mismatch with the hotspots of rarity was assessed.

Results

A total of 44 functionally rare species and 22 phylogenetically rare species were identified. Six of these species were both functionally and phylogenetically rare, and only one was listed as endangered on the Red List of the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). Functional rarity hotspots covered 10.27% of the coastal areas, which geographically converged in the southern and eastern coast of Taiwan, the Yangtze River Estuary and the Yellow River Estuary. Phylogenetic rarity hotspots only covered 3.06% of the coastal areas, which were sporadically distributed in the coastal East China Sea, the Bohai Sea and the northern Yellow Sea. Current marine‐protected areas (MPAs) only represented 16.16% of the FR hotspots and 20.48% of the PR hotspots, indicating substantial mismatched areas between the MPAs and the hotspots of FR and PR.

Main Conclusions

Only considering threatened species in conservation practices will omit functionally and phylogenetically rare species because FR and PR are not necessarily correlated with species threat status on the IUCN Red List. Functional rarity hotspots do not necessarily overlap with PR hotspots, and current MPAs mismatch the majority of these areas. We therefore advocate that conservation prioritization and expansion of MPA networks should account for FR and PR both at the species and site levels.
Ecosystem indicators: predicting population responses to combined climate and anthropogenic changes in shallow seas
Authors: Trifonova Neda I. , Scott Beth E.
Published: December 2023

Crowded seas are becoming a pressing management problem with the increased development of offshore renewable energy (ORE) to combat climate change. Marine ecosystems are complex and varied; therefore, we need new tools to help rapidly increase our understanding of how they are likely to change with both climate and anthropogenic changes. This study uses a pragmatic data‐driven Bayesian network approach to capture the patterns of ecosystem complexity and reveal trends of ecosystem drivers (i.e. indicators) important to ecosystem functioning across space and over time. The ecosystem approach assessed physical and biological indicators and their influence on population (abundance/productivity) trends in four regions with contrasting habitats of the North Sea within the last 30 years (1990–2019). What‐if scenarios were conducted to examine species/functional group responses to physical (temperature and stratification) representing climate and large‐scale ORE development effects, as well as anthropogenic (fishing) changes. Clear patterns were revealed, including temporal trends of the dynamic nature of bottom‐up effects driven by physical change versus top‐down effects driven by fishing across trophic levels and habitat types. All four regions are influenced by both effects; however, the dominance of effects was dependent on region: Shetland and Orkney (bottom‐up driven), southern North Sea (top‐down driven). In general, regions with stronger bottom‐up effects showed increasing population trends whereas those with stronger top‐down effects, decreasing trends. Our findings also suggest that some species are much better indicators of either bottom‐up (e.g. zooplankton), top‐down effects (e.g. fish) or both (e.g. grey seal), but the strength of indicator is dependent on habitat type. The habitat‐specific results provide better understanding of what type of ecosystem change they are indicating (physical or biophysical) and therefore indicators that assess both ecosystem status and resilience, ensuring a more strategic and integrated evaluation of trade‐offs for future sustainable management of our shallow seas.
Accounting for the topology of road networks to better explain human‐mediated dispersal in terrestrial landscapes
Authors: Rocabert Charles , Fenet Serge , Kaufmann Bernard , Gippet Jérôme M. W.
Published: December 2023

Human trade and movements are central to biological invasions worldwide. Human activities not only transport species across biogeographical barriers, but also accelerate their post‐introduction spread in the landscape. Thus, by constraining human movements, the spatial structure of road networks might greatly affect the regional spread of invasive species. However, few invasion models have accounted for the topology of road networks so far, and its importance for explaining the regional distribution of invasive species remains mostly unexplored. To address this issue, we developed a spatially explicit and mechanistic human‐mediated dispersal model that accounts and tests for the influence of transport networks on the regional spread of invasive species. Using as a model the spread of the invasive ant Lasius neglectus in the middle Rhône valley (France), we show that accounting for the topology of road networks improves our ability to explain the current distribution of the invasive ant. In contrast, we found that using human population density as a proxy for the frequency of transport events decreases models' performance and might thus not be as appropriate as previously thought. Finally, by differentiating road networks into sub‐networks, we show that national and regional roads are more important than smaller roads for explaining spread patterns. Overall, our results demonstrate that the topology of transport networks can strongly bias regional invasion patterns and highlight the importance of better incorporating it into future invasion models. The mechanistic modelling approach developed in this study should help invasion scientists explore how human‐mediated dispersal and topography shape invasion dynamics in landscapes. Ultimately, our approach could be combined with demographic, natural dispersal and environmental suitability models to refine spread scenarios and improve invasive species monitoring and management at regional to national scales.

Keywords: biological invasions, human‐mediated dispersal, road network, secondary spread, spatially explicit model, stochastic jump model
Contrasting patterns of sequence variation in steelhead populations reflect distinct evolutionary processes
Authors: Willis Stuart , Coykendall D. Katharine , Campbell Matthew R. , Narum Shawn
Published: December 2023

Multiple evolutionary processes influence genome‐wide allele frequencies and quantifying effects of genetic drift, and multiple forms of selection remain challenging in natural populations. Here, we investigate variation at major effect loci in contrast to patterns of neutral drift across a wide collection of steelhead (Oncorhynchus mykiss) populations that have declined in abundance due to anthropogenic impacts. Whole‐genome resequencing of 74 populations of steelhead revealed genome‐wide patterns (~8 million SNPs) consistent with expected neutral population structure. However, allelic variation at major effect loci associated with adult migration timing (chromosome 28: GREB1L/ROCK1) and age at maturity (chromosome 25: SIX6) reflected how selection has acted on phenotypic variation in contrast with neutral structure. Variation at major effect loci was influenced by evolutionary processes with differing signals between the strongly divergent Coastal and Inland lineages, while allele frequencies within and among populations within the Inland lineage have been driven by local natural selection as well as recent anthropogenic influences. Recent anthropogenic effects appeared to have influenced the frequency of major effect alleles including artificial selection for specific traits in hatchery stocks with subsequent gene flow into natural populations. Selection from environmental factors at various scales has also likely influenced variation for major effect alleles. These results reveal evolutionary mechanisms that influence allele frequencies at major effect loci that are critical for conservation of phenotypic traits and life history variation of this protected species.
Investigation of geriatric syndromes associated with medication in Japan using insurance claims data
Authors: Hasegawa Sho , Mizokami Fumihiro , Mizuno Tomohiro , Yabu Takeshi , Kameya Yoshitaka , Hayakawa Yuji , Arai Hidenori
Published: December 2023

Aim

Multiple risk factors are involved in geriatric syndrome (GS) occurring in older adults. Although drug therapy often contributes to GS, the specific causes among older adults in Japan remain unclear. In this study, we examined the possible prescribing cascade rate among older outpatients eligible for Late‐stage Elderly Health Insurance and elucidated the differences between GS and GS associated with medication (GSAM) trends.

Methods

This retrospective study enrolled patients from health insurance claims data in Japan between October 2018 and March 2019; hospitalized patients were excluded. Two groups were identified among the participants with GS: GS (no use of GS‐causing medications) and possible‐GSAM (p‐GSAM; use of GS‐causing medications). The collected data were analyzed using the Bell Curve for Excel, and statistical significance was set at P < 0.05.

Results

In total, 137 781 outpatients were enrolled. Of the 32 259 outpatients who did not use GS‐causing medications, 7342 were classified into the GS group. Among 105 522 outpatients who used GS‐causing medications, 8347 were classified as having p‐GSAM. The mean number of prescriptions was significantly higher in the p‐GSAM group than in the GS group (P < 0.01). Furthermore, all GS symptoms showed significant differences, with impaired appetite being the most prevalent in the p‐GSAM group than in the GS group (P < 0.01). A possible prescribing cascade was suspected in 2826 (33.9%) of 8347 outpatients in the p‐GSAM group.

Conclusion

Impaired appetite in patients taking GS‐causing medications might lead to prescribing cascades. Further studies are needed to prevent such prescribing cascades. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 61–67.
Outcomes of total hip and knee arthroplasty in patients with haemophilia: A meta‐analysis of comparative studies and clinical practice recommendations
Authors: Challoumas Dimitris , Munn David , Jeyakumar Gowsikan , Bagot Catherine , Rodgers Ryan , Kearns Rachel , Jones Bryn
Published: December 2023

Aim

We aimed to compare the outcomes of total hip and knee arthroplasty (THA, TKA) in haemophilic patients compared to matched controls.

Methods

Through a literature search we identified all cohort studies comparing perioperative complications and other outcomes of THA and TKA in haemophilic patients and matched controls without haemophilia. Results of the same outcome measure assessed by two or more studies were pooled in meta‐analyses; odds ratios (ORs) with 95% confidence intervals (CI) were calculated. The risk of bias in included studies and certainty of evidence of each result were assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa scale and the GRADE tool respectively.

Results

A total of five retrospective studies with matched controls were included; four of them were of good and one of fair quality. Based on moderate certainty evidence, compared to matched controls, patients with haemophilia had a significantly higher incidence of the following complications after a) TKA: periprosthetic joint infection [PJI; OR 1.6 CI (1.3, 1.9)], 1‐year revision/re‐operation [OR 1.4 CI (1.2, 1.8)] and b) THA: major and minor 90‐day complications [major OR 2.2 CI (1.7, 2.9); minor OR 1.4 CI (1.1, 1.8)], venous thromboembolism [OR 3.1 CI (2.1, 4.6)]. PJI incidence in THA was not different in haemophilia compared to controls [OR 1.5 CI (.9, 2.6)].

Conclusion

Our results can be used by healthcare professionals counselling patients with haemophilia considering a THA or TKA as part of the informed consent process. We provide detailed clinical recommendations for the perioperative management of THA and TKA in haemophilic patients.
A study of anti‐wrinkle functions and improvement of cream with Phaseolus angularis
Authors: Oh Sarang , Jeong Jeehaeng , Kim Myeongju , Jin Xiangji , Zheng Shengdao , Kim Yong‐Min , Yi Tae‐Hoo
Published: December 2023

Chronic exposure to ultraviolet (UV) radiation from sunlight accelerates skin ageing, which is followed by harsh, thick, dry and loose conditions. One of the most demonstrative symptoms is deep wrinkles induced by skin barrier disruption. Our previous research showed that Phaseolus angularis seed extract (PASE) effectively inhibits skin ageing through UVB protection in HaCaT cells by suppressing skin damage. However, its efficacy has not been evaluated in clinical trials so far. PASE cream's effectiveness was initially tested on the artificial skin model, revealing an increase in filaggrin and defence against skin damage. Based on these results, in this single‐centred, randomized, double‐blind study, we investigated the anti‐ageing effect of PASE in human eye wrinkle areas. For these 21 healthy adult women aged 30 to 59, a PASE cream was applied to the right eye wrinkle area and a placebo to the left eye wrinkle area twice a day (morning and evening) for 12 weeks. The change in thick, deep crease wrinkles around the eyes was confirmed by visual evaluation, skin measurements and a questionnaire. As a result, the surface roughness (R1), maximum roughness (R2), average roughness (R3), smoothness depth (R4) and arithmetic mean roughness (R5) values in the group using the PASE cream all decreased. Particularly, R1, R4 and R5 significantly decreased by 18.1%, 18.6% and 25.0%, respectively. Subjects who applied PASE cream also experienced an improvement in skin moisture nearly twice the time compared to the placebo group. In addition, no participants reported side effects. Our study showed that PASE cream led to clinically significant levels of wrinkle improvement. In conclusion, as PASE is a natural, safe food with no side effects, it can be a good resource for natural anti‐wrinkle functional cosmetics in the future.
A critical look at outcome measures: Comparison between four dental research journals by use of a hierarchical model
Authors: Wrangstål Linnéa , Pigg Maria , Almutairi Nawaf , Fransson Helena
Published: December 2023

Aim

To assess the status quo of outcome measures used in treatment studies in Endodontics, and potentially identify strategies for improvement, by (i) systematically assessing the outcome measures using a conceptual model and (ii) comparing these with measures used in corresponding studies in the adjacent fields.

Methodology

The International Endodontic Journal, Caries Research, The Journal of Clinical Periodontology and The Journal of Oral & Facial Pain and Headache were selected to cover four adjacent dental disciplines. In each journal, the 50 most recent consecutive publications fulfilling inclusion criteria were included. A hierarchical model for diagnostic imaging studies was modified to assess studies related to treatment. The model comprised six levels, with technical as the lowest level and societal as the highest. Extracted data included study origin, study type, and identified outcome measures. Fisher's Exact Tests with Bonferroni corrections compared studies. p < .05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Amongst 756 publications, the 200 most recent studies matching the inclusion criteria were identified. Less than half (36.5%) assessed the clinical, patient, or societal aspects of treatment; 10.0% in International Endodontic Journal, 28.0% in Caries Research, 38.0% in Journal of Clinical Periodontology, and 70.0% in Journal of Oral & Facial Pain and Headache (p < .001).

Conclusions

According to included publications, research on treatment within the endodontic field is mainly focusing on technical and biological outcomes. The benefits of patients and society were less frequently examined than in corresponding journals in adjacent disciplines. When designing studies, including higher‐level outcomes should be considered.
cBN‐reinforced Al2O3–Ti(C,N) composites with high toughness sintered under oscillatory pressure
Authors: Zhang Mengwen , Cao Na , Meng Fanyu , Yang Lutong , Jiang Binyang , Li Jinsheng , Fan Lei , Yang Shoulei
Published: December 2023

High‐toughness Al2O3–Ti(C,N) composites reinforced by cBN particles were prepared by the new oscillating pressure sintering technique. The density, phase, and microstructure evolution of the Al2O3–Ti(C,N)‐cBN composites sintered at different temperatures were studied, and their effects on the mechanical properties were investigated. The results show that when the sintering temperature increases from 1300 to 1500°C, the heat preservation time shortens, whereas the density and interface bonding strength of the composites increase. In addition, cBN particles can play the role of crack bridging and be pulled out when the composites fracture, improving the toughness of the Al2O3–Ti(C,N)–cBN composites. However, when the sintering temperature further rises to 1600°C, a new phase of TiB2 forms, and the solid solubility of C and N in Ti(C,N) increases, leading to a decrease in density and mechanical properties. As a result, when the Al2O3–Ti(C,N)–cBN composite is sintered at 1500°C, its mechanical properties reach the maximum values of 21.5 GPa, 5.7 MPa m1/2, and 731 MPa for hardness, fracture toughness, and flexural strength, respectively.
The Dimensions and Roles of Online Content in Social Commerce: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Agenda
Authors: Singh Diksha , Pandey Vidushi
Published: December 2023

Due to the increasing ubiquity and acceptance of online shopping, social commerce research has attracted the attention of many scholars, leading to an exponential growth of the literature within a short span of a few years. Among the numerous investigations in the field, research relating to online content is warranted owing to the rapid evolution of content and its importance in the shopping arena. This study systematically reviews the literature on various dimensions of content and how these dimensions influence customer‐level outcomes in social commerce. The study adopts a framework‐based approach and organizes 169 content‐focused research articles. The framework proposes three content dimensions—format, source, and platform, and four outcome categories based on transactionality and favorability of outcomes. The findings reveal an evolution of content dimensions and consumer behavior outcomes. Additionally, identified gaps and future research directions have been discussed.
Endotoxin biomarkers, hepatic fat fraction, liver volume and liver stiffness among adolescents at high‐risk for non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease: The HEROES study
Authors: Perng Wei , Salmon Kyle , Schenker Rachel , Janssen Rachel C. , Friedman Jacob E. , Goran Michael I.
Published: December 2023

Background

Non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is on the rise among youth. Identifying biomarkers of NAFLD progression/risk can aid in prevention efforts.

Aims

This pilot study investigated associations of two endotoxin biomarkers—lipopolysaccharide‐binding protein (LBP) and anti‐endotoxin core immunoglobulin G (EndoCab)—with markers of NAFLD among 99 Latino/Latina adolescents (11–19 years) with obesity.

Materials & Methods

We used linear regression to examine associations of each endotoxin biomarker (per 1‐SD) with hepatic fat fraction (HFF), liver volume, and liver stiffness.

Results

We found positive associations of LBP with HFF and liver volume. Each 1‐SD increment in LBP corresponded with 2.35% (95% CI: 0.46%, 4.23%) higher HFF and 0.14 (0.06, 0.23) L greater liver volume after adjusting for age, sex, and maternal education. Accounting for abdominal adiposity and Tanner stage did not change results. Excluding 72 participants with NAFLD attenuated associations of LBP with HFF but associations with liver volume persisted (0.11 [0.01, 0.21] L). EndoCab was not associated with any liver outcomes. Neither endotoxin biomarker predicted liver stiffness.

Discussion/conclusion

While additional research is warranted, our results support LBP as a biomarker of NAFLD risk/progression in high‐risk youth.
Implicit government guarantees, media tone and bond pricing
Authors: Dong Yashu , Dong Yi , Xuan Wenshuang
Published: December 2023

By exploiting the first public bond default event in China—the Chaori bond default in 2014—we examine how implicit government guarantees shape the role of media information in bond pricing. We find an insignificant association between preissuance media tones and bond issuances’ yield spreads before the event; however, the association becomes negative and significant after the event. The role of media tone in bond pricing is more pronounced for regions with greater information demand for default risk and for media outlets with stronger information provisions toward implicit government guarantees after the event. Mechanism analyses suggest increased bond investors’ risk awareness, rather than strengthened information provisions in media tones, as the force behind the more pronounced role of media tone in bond pricing. Finally, lower yield spreads driven by more positive media tone do not suggest bond overpricing. Our study reveals the role of media tone in bond pricing and displays the evolution of the media tone's role in bond pricing due to changing institutions.
Sex differences in adverse events from systemic treatments for psoriasis: A decade of insights from the Swiss Psoriasis Registry (SDNTT)
Authors: Verardi Fabio , Maul Lara Valeska , Borsky Kim , Steinmann Simona , Rosset Nina , Pons Hector Ortega , Sorbe Christina , Yawalkar Nikhil , Micheroli Raphael , Egeberg Alexander , Thyssen Jacob P. , Heidemeyer Kristine , Boehncke Wolf‐Henning , Conrad Curdin , Cozzio Antonio , Pinter Andreas , Kündig Thomas , Navarini Alexander A. , Maul Julia‐Tatjana
Published: December 2023

Background

Psoriasis is a disease that often requires prolonged systemic treatment. It is important to determine the safety of available therapies. There is currently little insight into sex‐specific differences in the safety of systemic psoriasis therapies.

Objectives

To examine the real‐world, long‐term safety of systemic psoriasis therapies with sex stratification in drug‐related adverse events (ADRs).

Methods

Ten‐year data from adults with moderate‐to‐severe psoriasis requiring systemic treatment (conventional systemic therapies [CST], biologics) were obtained from the Swiss psoriasis registry (SDNTT). ADRs were categorized according to the international terminology Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities (MedDRA). Safety was assessed by calculating event rates per 100 patient‐years (PY). We used descriptive statistics for patient and disease characteristics, and binomial and t‐tests to compare treatment groups and sex.

Results

In total, 791 patients (290 females) were included with a mean age of 46 years. 358 (45%) received CSTs and 433 (55%) biologics; both groups had similar baseline characteristics except for more joint involvement in patients using biologics (26.86% vs. 14.8%, p < 0.0001). CSTs were associated with a 2.2‐fold higher ADR rate (40.43/100 PY vs. 18.22/100 PY, p < 0.0001) and an 8.0‐fold higher drug‐related discontinuation rate than biologics (0.16/PY vs. 0.02/PY, p < 0.0001). Trends showed non‐significant higher serious adverse event rates per 100 PY for biologics (8.19, CI 6.87–9.68) compared to CSTs (7.08, CI 5.39–9.13) (p = 0.3922). Sex stratification revealed a significantly higher overall ADR rate for all treatments in females (1.8‐fold for CSTs [57.30/100 PY vs. 31.69/100 PY] and 2.0‐fold for biologics [27.36/100 PY vs. 13.9/100 PY], p < 0.0001), and drug‐related discontinuation rates for most CSTs in females.

Conclusion

Females were associated with a significantly higher rate of ADRs and drug‐related discontinuation rates. Sex stratification should be taken into consideration when designing studies in the patient‐tailored management of psoriasis.
Mechanism underlying pruritus in recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa: Role of interleukin‐31 from mast cells and macrophages
Authors: Lee Sang Gyun , Kim Song‐Ee , Jeong In‐Hye , Lee Sang Eun
Published: December 2023

Background

Pruritus is a highly burdensome symptom in patients with epidermolysis bullosa, especially recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB); however, only a few studies have assessed the molecular pathogenesis of RDEB‐associated pruritus. Interleukin (IL)‐31 is a key cytokine implicated in pruritus associated with dermatologic diseases such as atopic dermatitis and prurigo nodularis.

Objective

To investigate the role and cellular source of IL‐31 in RDEB‐associated pruritus.

Methods

Serum and skin samples were obtained from 11 RDEB patients and 11 healthy controls. Pruritus visual analogue scale scores were determined. Serum levels of IL‐31 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) were examined by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). The expression of IL‐31 and other pruritus mediators in the skin were examined through immunofluorescence staining, and their correlation with pruritus severity was analysed.

Results

Serum IL‐31 and TSLP were elevated in RDEB patients. IL‐31 expression was increased in RDEB skin and positively correlated with pruritus severity. Most of the IL‐31‐expressing cells were mast cells, and some were CD206(+) M2‐like macrophages. The number of substance P(+) cells was also increased in the patients' skin, and most of them were mast cells. The number of substance P(+) mast cells was correlated with the number of IL‐31(+) dermal infiltrates. The number of IL‐4Rα‐ and IL‐13‐expressing cells and expression of TSLP and periostin increased in RDEB skin, but without a correlation to pruritus score.

Conclusion

The increased production of skin IL‐31 from mast cells and M2‐like macrophages may be the mechanism underlying pruritus in RDEB.