bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Practice and development of male contraception: European Academy of Andrology and American Society of Andrology guidelines
Authors: Wang Christina , Meriggiola Maria Cristina , Amory John K. , Barratt Christopher L. R. , Behre Hermann M. , Bremner William J. , Ferlin Alberto , Honig Stanton , Kopa Zsolt , Lo Kirk , Nieschlag Eberhard , Page Stephanie T. , Sandlow Jay , Sitruk‐Ware Regine , Swerdloff Ronald S. , Wu Frederick C. W. , Goulis Dimitrios G.
Published: September 2023

Backgrounds

Despite a wide spectrum of contraceptive methods for women, the unintended pregnancy rate remains high (45% in the US), with 50% resulting in abortion. Currently, 20% of global contraceptive use is male‐directed, with a wide variation among countries due to limited availability and lack of efficacy. Worldwide studies indicate that >50% of men would opt to use a reversible method, and 90% of women would rely on their partner to use a contraceptive. Additional reasons for novel male contraceptive methods to be available include the increased life expectancy, sharing the reproductive risks among partners, social issues, the lack of pharma industry involvement and the lack of opinion makers advocating for male contraception.

Aim

The present guidelines aim to review the status regarding male contraception, the current state of the art to support the clinical practice, recommend minimal requirements for new male contraceptive development and provide and grade updated, evidence‐based recommendations from the European Society of Andrology (EAA) and the American Society of Andrology (ASA).

Methods

An expert panel of academicians appointed by the EAA and the ASA generated a consensus guideline according to the GRADE (Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation) system.

Results

Sixty evidence‐based and graded recommendations were produced on couple‐centered communication, behaviors, barrier methods, semen analysis and contraceptive efficacy, physical agents, surgical methods, actions before initiating male contraception, hormonal methods, non‐hormonal methods, vaccines, and social and ethical considerations.

Conclusion

As gender roles transform and gender equity is established in relationships, the male contribution to family planning must be facilitated. Efficient and safe male‐directed methods must be evaluated and introduced into clinical practice, preferably reversible, either hormonal or non‐hormonal. From a future perspective, identifying new hormonal combinations, suitable testicular targets, and emerging vas occlusion methods will produce novel molecules and products for male contraception.
Mapping the factors behind ongoing war stress in Ukraine‐based young civilian adults
Authors: Palace Marek , Zamazii Oksana , Terbeck Sylvia , Bokszczanin Anna , Berezovski Tetyana , Gurbisz Dominika , Szwejka Lukasz
Published: September 2023

While the literature on well‐being and stress following natural disasters is well‐developed, it is less so when it comes to ongoing war experiences. Between September and October of 2022, 223 Ukraine‐based civilian adults (156 women and 67 men) completed a survey measuring symptoms of post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), peritraumatic experiences, paranoia, quality of life, death anxiety, anxiety about weapons of mass destruction and depression (i.e. assumed ‘war consequence’ factors), as well as perceived social support, resilience, loneliness and expected military support from the West (i.e. assumed ‘buffer’ factors). Our exploratory structural equation model (SEM) suggests that Perceived Social Support predicted fewer PTSD Symptoms and more Peritraumatic Experiences. The regression modelling, however, shows that Perceived Social Support was also positively correlated with Peritraumatic Experiences. Highlighting the need for a civilian war stress buffer disruption theory, we argue that when composed of one's circle of family and friends, social support could likely mean greater exposure to war stressors through the mutual sharing of ongoing war experiences with no end in sight. Such a possible war stress sharing deterioration effect would imply that Perceived Social Support may compound peritraumatic distress if the support in question is offered by those facing the same grim reality.
(Re)purposing cadasters: When ecclesiastical archives advocate for Indigenous land rights
Authors: Denieul‐Pinsky Léa
Published: September 2023

This paper reflects on the potential and limits of repatriating state‐sanctioned historical materials and repurposing them as “counter‐archives” for Indigenous communities. This proposal aligns itself with the epistemic shift in archival studies which promotes a processual approach to archiving (archive‐as‐subject) rather than an extractive one (archive‐as‐source). Instead of taking colonial archives at face value or dismissing them entirely for their erasures, scholars and artists are finding new ways to approach, produce, and share them. This research expands the scope of counter‐cartography and historical geography by identifying different data sources that can be mapped. Mandated by a Mohawk Land Defender, I have compiled ecclesiastical archives, cadasters, and land registries from the Seminary of St. Sulpice into a “counter‐archive,” then turned them into a geospatial database for use in GIS. Historically these ecclesiastical records were used by the Seminary to claim Indigenous territories, erase Indigenous presence, and attract settlers to the Seigneurie du Lac‐des‐Deux‐Montagnes, an area spanning 540 km2 west of Montreal. The repurposed counter‐archives can be used as tools for critical public discourse around Indigenous land rights. Given genuine Federal will for reconciliation, this methodology mapping land dispossession from archival cadasters and land registries could expand to other locations across Canada.
Cutaneous findings and treatments in deficiency of interleukin‐36 receptor antagonist (DITRA): A review of the literature
Authors: Okorie Chiamaka L. , Nayudu Krithika , Nambudiri Vinod E.
Published: September 2023

Deficiency of the interleukin‐36 receptor antagonist (DITRA) is a rare autoinflammatory disorder caused by mutations in the IL36RN gene. This mutation leads to a lack of functional interleukin‐36 receptor antagonists (IL‐36Ra), which results in an overactive immune system and chronic inflammation. Despite its rarity, numerous case series and individual reports in the literature emphasize the importance of recognizing and managing DITRA. Early identification of the cutaneous signs of DITRA is crucial for accurate diagnosis and timely administration of appropriate treatment. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the current understanding of the cutaneous, non‐cutaneous and histopathological manifestations of DITRA, with a focus on reported treatments. The disease typically presents in early childhood, although the age of onset can vary. Patients with DITRA exhibit recurrent episodes of skin inflammation, often with a pustular or pustular psoriasis‐like appearance. Additionally, non‐cutaneous manifestations are common, with recurrent fevers and elevated acute‐phase reactants being the most prevalent. The exact prevalence of DITRA is unknown. Some cases of loss‐of‐function mutations in the IL36RN gene, considered a hallmark for diagnosis, have been identified in patients with familial generalized pustular psoriasis (GPP). Biological therapies with inhibition of IL‐12/23 and IL‐17 are promising treatment options; paediatric patients with DITRA have shown complete response with mild relapses. New and emerging biologic therapeutics targeting the IL‐36 pathway are also of interest in the management of this rare autoinflammatory disorder.
The effect of providing feedback and feedforward in prosody instruction for developing listening comprehension skills by interpreter trainees
Authors: Yenkimaleki Mahmood , van Heuven Vincent J. , Hosseini Mostafa
Published: September 2023

The present study examines the effect of feedback (FB) and feedforward (FF) in prosody instruction for developing listening comprehension skills in the nonnative language by interpreter trainees, using a pretest–posttest–delayed posttest design. Three groups of 25 interpreter trainees at Bu‐Ali Sina University in Iran took part in the study, all groups receiving the same amount of instruction (10 h over 5 weeks). The control group listened to/viewed authentic audio recordings and movies in English, discussed their contents, and completed a variety of listening comprehension tasks but received no prosody instruction. The first experimental group spent part of the time on theoretical explanation of, and practical exercises with, English prosody by an instructor by providing FB when teaching prosody while the second experimental group was provided FF when teaching prosody. Versions of Longman's Test of English as a Foreign Language English proficiency test (paper‐based) were used to assess listening comprehension at pretest, immediate posttest and delayed posttest. The findings revealed that the prosody instruction by providing FB enhanced the listening comprehension skills of the interpreter trainees more than by providing FF. The practical implications of the study would be that in the given circumstances where only limited curricular time is available for instruction and practice, a judicious choice can be made to lend priority to providing FB in prosody instruction for developing listening comprehension skills by interpreter trainees rather than to the providing FF.
Retention and export of planktonic fish eggs in the northeastern Gulf of Mexico
Authors: Nguyen Bich Vi Viviane , Liu Yonggang , Stallings Christopher D. , Breitbart Mya , Murawski Steven A. , Weisberg Robert H. , Kerr Makenzie , Bønnelycke Eva‐Maria S. , Peebles Ernst B.
Published: September 2023

To help determine whether planktonic eggs of fishes on the West Florida Shelf (WFS) are retained locally or exported elsewhere, we collected fish eggs by plankton net from 17 locations (stations) and identified them using DNA barcoding. We then entered the station coordinates into the West Florida Coastal Ocean Model (WFCOM) and simulated the trajectories of the passively drifting eggs over 2 weeks at three depths (surface, midwater, and near bottom). The results indicated there were two groups of trajectories: a nearshore group that tended to be retained and an offshore group that tended toward export and potential long‐distance dispersal. We also found evidence of a relationship between retention and higher fish‐egg abundance; nearshore stations were associated with higher fish‐egg abundances and higher retention. We suggest this is the result of (1) increased spawning in high‐retention areas, (2) increased drift convergence in high‐retention areas, or both processes acting together. Community analysis using SIMPROF indicated the presence of a depth‐related (retention‐related) difference in species assemblages. Fish‐egg species were also categorized as pelagics or non‐pelagics; there was no evidence of pelagic species being more likely to be exported.
Phenotypic signatures of urbanization? Resident, but not migratory, songbird eye size varies with urban‐associated light pollution levels
Authors: Jones Todd M. , Llamas Alfredo P. , Phillips Jennifer N.
Published: September 2023

Urbanization now exposes large portions of the earth to sources of anthropogenic disturbance, driving rapid environmental change and producing novel environments. Changes in selective pressures as a result of urbanization are often associated with phenotypic divergence; however, the generality of phenotypic change remains unclear. In this study, we examined whether morphological phenotypes in two residential species (Carolina Wren [Thryothorus ludovicianus] and Northern Cardinal [Cardinalis cardinalis]) and two migratory species (Painted Bunting [Passerina ciris], and White‐eyed Vireo [Vireo griseus]), differed between urban core and edge habitats in San Antonio, Texas, USA. More specifically, we examined whether urbanization, associated sensory pollution (light and noise) and brightness (open, bright areas cause by anthropogenic land use) influenced measures of avian body (mass and frame size) and lateral eye size. We found no differences in body size between urban core and edge habitats for all species except the Painted Bunting, in which core‐urban individuals were smaller. Rather than a direct effect of urbanization, this was due to differences in age structure between habitats, with urban‐core areas consisting of higher proportions of younger buntings which are, on average, smaller than older birds. Residential birds inhabiting urban‐core areas had smaller eyes compared to their urban‐edge counterparts, resulting from a negative association between eye size and light pollution and brightness across study sites; notably, we found no such association in the two migratory species. Our findings demonstrate how urbanization may indirectly influence phenotypes by altering population demographics and highlight the importance of accounting for age when assessing factors driving phenotypic change. We also provide some of the first evidence that birds may adapt to urban environments through changes in their eye morphology, demonstrating the need for future research into relationships among eye size, ambient light microenvironment use, and disassembly of avian communities as a result of urbanization.
Rasgos‐CL: A functional trait database of Chilean woody plants
Authors: Alfaro Elias , Pérez‐Tello Valentina , Acevedo Manuel , Ovalle Juan , Segovia Ricardo , Craven Dylan
Published: September 2023

Motivation

Due to language and networking barriers, global initiatives to compile trait data often fail to integrate data from sources in non‐English languages or scientists that largely speak and write in non‐English languages. To illustrate the potential for regional databases to fill gaps in trait data, and how such databases may fill critical gaps in global biodiversity databases, we built the Rasgos‐CL Database. Rasgos‐CL provides a comprehensive set of plant traits for the woody flora of Chile by mobilizing and standardizing unstructured data largely from the Spanish‐language literature. We quantified the gains in trait coverage compared to global trait databases and identified phylogenetic and geographic biases of trait data gaps.

Main Types of Variables Contained

Rasgos‐CL contains 25,174 trait records, including 2 continuous and 21 categorical traits for 662 woody species.

Spatial Location and Grain

National coverage, with species that occur across all ecosystems in continental Chile.

Time Period and Grain

Data were extracted from sources published between 1833 and 2023.

Major Taxa and Level of Measurement

Rasgos‐CL includes trait data aggregated at the species level for 662 tree and shrub species, and also provides trait records from individual data sources.

Software Format

Rasgos‐CL includes four csv files. A GitHub repository contains the csv files.
Associations among social participation types, mental and subjective well‐being in Chinese older adults during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Chan Stephen Cheong Yu , Huang Qi Lu , Fung Cheuk Ki
Published: September 2023

Aims

This study investigated the relationships between specific types of social participation and well‐being variables (i.e., life satisfaction, positive affect, negative affect, symptoms of depression and anxiety) in Chinese older adults in Hong Kong.

Methods

This study was a cross‐sectional study. A convenience sample of 341 participants aged 55–95 years (mean, 70.92; SD, 9.03) was recruited to complete a survey questionnaire during the COVID‐19 pandemic (between April and June 2022). Five hierarchical multiple regression analyses were conducted to examine the relationships between different types of social participation (physical, cultural, recreational, religious, and voluntary work) and outcome variables.

Results

After controlling for covariates, it was revealed that only physical activities were associated with all outcome variables. Religious and cultural activities were positively related to positive affect, while an inverse relationship was found between recreational activities and anxiety.

Conclusions

With the restrictions on social participation arising from the COVID‐19 pandemic, these findings suggest that promoting different types of social interactions might foster various aspects of well‐being in Chinese older adults. To achieve successful aging, the role of physical activities might be of paramount importance even under adverse situations. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 364–369.
How does joint impairment affect the functional capacity of the lower limb in early haemophilia‐related arthropathy?
Authors: Cruz‐Montecinos Carlos , Landro Maria Eulalia , Cambiaggi Guillermo , Caviglia Horacio , Daffunchio Carla
Published: September 2023

Introduction

The impact of joint damage on functional capacity in patients with mild haemophilia (PwMH) has yet to be well studied. The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of joint impairment on the functional capacity of the lower limb in PwMH. The secondary aim was to identify physical predictors of lower limb functional capacity.

Method

Forty‐nine PwMH were evaluated. Dynamic balance was assessed using Time Up and Go (TUG). Thirty‐second sit‐to‐stand (30‐STS) and 60‐second‐STS (60‐STS) were used to assess muscle power and endurance, respectively. Haemophilia Early Arthropathy Detection with Ultrasound (HEAD‐US) was used to assess joint damage. PwMH were divided based on HEAD‐US: with joint damage (≥3 points) and without or with very low joint damage (0–2 points). Univariate ANOVA and multiple regression analyses were performed to identify differences in functional capacity and potential physical predictors.

Results

Only 30‐STS showed significant differences between groups (p = .002). TUG and 60‐STS were primarily explained by age (r2 = .21 andr2 = .44, respectively), while for 30‐STS, age combined with joint damage and pain level explains 54% of the variance.

Conclusion

Our findings indicate that the 30‐STS is useful for assessing functional deterioration in people with early‐stage haemophilia‐related arthropathy. Our results also indicate that joint damage, combined with ageing and pain, may impact 30‐STS outcomes in PwMH. Furthermore, our findings show that the loss in TUG and 60‐STS performance in PwMH is related to ageing.
Guided self‐help mindfulness‐based intervention for increasing psychological resilience and reducing job burnout in psychiatric nurses: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Wang Qi , Luan Yue , Liu Dandan , Dai Jiali , Wang Haina , Zhang Yang , Wang Shuang , Dong Xiaomei , Bi Hongsheng
Published: September 2023

Aims

The present study aimed to explore the effects of a guided self‐help mindfulness intervention on psychological resilience and job burnout among psychiatric nurses.

Background

Psychiatric nurses work in challenging and potentially high stress settings. Mindfulness interventions can improve psychological resilience and reduce job burnout of nurses. However, face‐to‐face delivery of mindfulness interventions may be inconvenient for individuals. Guided self‐help interventions may be more accessible.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was conducted from January to August 2022. One hundred and eighteen psychiatric nurses were randomized into the intervention and control groups. The individuals in the intervention group received an 8‐week guided self‐help mindfulness intervention, while the individuals in the control group received a psycho‐educational brochure. The Five Facet Mindfulness Questionnaire, the Connor‐Davidson Resilience Scale and the Maslach Burnout Inventory‐Human Services Survey were used to evaluate the levels of mindfulness, psychological resilience and job burnout, respectively.

Results

After an 8‐week intervention, compared with the control group, the levels of mindfulness and psychological resilience were higher, while the level of job burnout was lower in the intervention group.

Conclusions

The guided self‐help mindfulness intervention can improve psychological resilience and reduce job burnout among psychiatric nurses.
Security‐as‐Service in the Management of European Border Data Infrastructures
Authors: Maguire Eileen Murphy
Published: September 2023

Today, large‐scale IT systems play a central role in the management of European borders. These systems not only support and enable the management of mobility but also require expert management as complex data infrastructures. Drawing on fieldwork carried out at the headquarters of the European Union Agency for the Operational Management of Large‐Scale IT Systems in the Area of Freedom, Security and Justice (eu‐LISA), this article engages with growing calls to explore the politics of data infrastructure management. Focusing on the expert discourses and practices of eu‐LISA, I show that, in line with a logic of service, it seeks to establish its legitimacy and authority as the manager of data infrastructures by sharing its expertise with its stakeholders. By attending to a logic of service, I show that the management of data infrastructures is neither exclusively depoliticising nor politicising; rather, it is often simultaneously both.
Are interleukin 17 and interleukin 23 inhibitors associated with malignancies?—Insights from an international population‐based study
Authors: Kridin Khalaf , Abdelghaffar Mariam , Mruwat Noor , Ludwig Ralf J. , Thaçi Diamant
Published: September 2023

Background

Cancer risk after long‐term exposure to interleukin (IL)‐23 inhibitors (IL‐23i) and IL‐17 inhibitors (IL‐17i) remains to be delineated.

Objective

To evaluate the risk of malignancies in patients with psoriasis treated with IL‐23i and IL‐17i relative to those prescribed tumour necrosis factor inhibitors (TNFi) during the first 5 years following drug initiation.

Methods

A global population‐based cohort study included two distinct analyses comparing patients with psoriasis under different therapeutic modalities; (i) new users of IL‐17i(n = 15,331) versus TNFi (n = 15,331) and (ii) new users of IL‐23i (n = 5832) versus TNFi (n = 5832).

Results

Patients prescribed IL‐17i experienced a decreased risk of non‐Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL; HR, 0.58; 95% CI, 0.40–0.82; p = 0.002), colorectal cancer (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.49–0.95; p = 0.024), hepatobiliary cancer (HR, 0.68; 95% CI, 0.58–0.80; p < 0.001), ovary cancer (HR, 0.48; 95% CI, 0.29–0.81; p = 0.005), melanoma (HR, 0.52; 95% CI, 0.37–0.73; p < 0.001), and basal cell carcinoma (BCC; HR, 0.57; 95% CI, 0.48–0.67; p < 0.001). IL‐23i was associated with a reduced risk of NHL (HR, 0.39; 95% CI, 0.19–0.78; p = 0.006), hepatobiliary cancer (HR, 0.44; 95% CI, 0.31–0.62; p < 0.001) and BCC (HR, 0.76; 95% CI, 0.57–0.99; p = 0.046). In a sensitivity analysis comparing patients managed by IL‐17i and IL‐23i with their biologic‐naïve counterparts, these classes were associated with decreased risk of several malignancies.

Conclusion

IL‐17i and IL‐23i are associated with decreased risk of several malignancies. These findings should be considered prior to the prescription of biologics.
Contribution of chitosan–caffeic acid graft against Staphylococcus aureus on oxidative stress and cell membrane
Authors: Lan Weiqing , Yan Peiling , Zhao Xinyu , Sun Yuqing , Xie Jing
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to explore the antibacterial activity and mechanism of chitosan‐caffeic acid graft (CS‐g‐CA) against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus). The minimum inhibitory concentration of CS‐g‐CA against S. aureus was assessed. The results of scanning electron microscope and confocal laser scanning microscope showed that CS‐g‐CA treatment could destroy the cell morphology and cause the leakage of intracellular contents, leading to bacteria death. The changes of superoxide dismutase, catalase, reactive oxygen species (ROS), and lipid peroxidation indicated that CS‐g‐CA stimulated the oxidative stress system of the cell, which further induced the generation of ROS, aggravated the accumulation of lipid peroxide, and destroyed the structure of the inner membrane. The electrophoresis results showed that the DNA of bacteria treated with CS‐g‐CA was broken led to the death of microorganisms. Overall, CS‐g‐CA has the potential to be a substitute for new bio‐preservative with bacteriostatic effects in food industry.
Primary sclerosing cholangitis causally affects kidney function decline: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Cho Jeong Min , Koh Jung Hun , Kim Seong Geun , Lee Soojin , Kim Yaerim , Cho Semin , Kim Kwangsoo , Kim Yong Chul , Han Seung Seok , Lee Hajeong , Lee Jung Pyo , Joo Kwon Wook , Lim Chun Soo , Kim Yon Su , Kim Dong Ki , Park Sehoon
Published: September 2023

Background and Aim

The causal linkage between primary sclerosing cholangitis (PSC) and kidney function is unexplored despite their potential for long‐term detrimental effects on kidney function.

Methods

Two‐sample summary‐level Mendelian randomization (MR) study was conducted to identify the association between PSC and kidney function. The genetic variants were extracted from the PSC‐specific multi‐trait analyzed genome‐wide association study (GWAS) of European ancestry. Summary‐level data for kidney function traits, including estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), annual eGFR decline, and chronic kidney disease (CKD), were obtained from the CKDGen consortium. Multiplicative random‐effects inverse‐variance weighted (MR‐IVW), and a series of pleiotropy‐robust analyses were performed to investigate the causal effects and ascertain their robustness.

Results

Significant causal associations between genetically predicted PSC and kidney function traits were identified. Genetically predicted PSC was associated with decreased log‐transformed eGFR (MR‐IVW; beta = −0.41%; standard error [SE] = 0.02%; P < 0.001), increased rate of annual eGFR decline (MR‐IVW; beta = 2.43%; SE = 0.18%; P < 0.001), and higher risk of CKD (MR‐IVW; odds ratio = 1.07; 95% confidence interval = 1.06–1.08; P < 0.001). The main findings were supported by pleiotropy‐robust analysis, including MR‐Egger with bootstrapped error and weighted median.

Conclusions

Our study demonstrates that genetically predicted PSC is causally associated with kidney function impairment. Further studies are warranted to identify the underlying mechanisms.
Real Interest Rates and Population Growth across Generations*
Authors: FUHRER LUCAS , HERGER NILS
Published: September 2023

This paper empirically examines the correlation between population growth and real interest rates. Although this correlation is well founded in macroeconomic theory, the corresponding empirical results have been rather tenuous. Demographic interest rate theories are typically based on long‐term relationships across generations. Accordingly, key population trends appear often only across decades, if not centuries, worth of data. To capture these trends, we distinguish between population growth resulting from a birth surplus and net migration. Within a panel covering 12 countries and the years since 1820, we find robust evidence that the birth surplus is significantly correlated with the real interest rate.
The psychology of interoperability: A systematic review of joint working between the UK emergency services
Authors: Power Nicola , Alcock Jennifer , Philpot Richard , Levine Mark
Published: September 2023

Emergency responding requires effective interoperability, whereby different emergency teams combine efforts and expertise to contain and reduce the impact of an emergency. Within the United Kingdom, the capacity for the Emergency Services to be interoperable has been criticized by public enquiries. This systematic review had three goals to: (i) define interoperability; (ii) identify the structural principles that underpin interoperability and (iii) identify the psychological principles that outline how interoperability can be achieved. A PRISMA framework was used to identify 137 articles, including 94 articles from the systematic review, 15 articles from grey literature and 28 articles based on author expertise. We identified two structural principles of interoperability: (i) being able to communicate and exchange information effectively; and (ii) having a decentralized and flexible team network. We identified three psychological principles that informed how interoperability might be embedded in the team: (i) establishing trust between team members; (ii) developing secure team identities and (iii) building cohesive goals. We defined interoperability as a shared system of technology and teamwork built upon trust, identification, goals, communication and flexibility. Regular psychologically immersive training that targets these psychological principles will help to embed interoperability into the social fabric of multi‐team systems operating in high‐reliability organizations.
Combination of downregulating FEN1 and PD‐1 blockade enhances antitumor activity of CD8+ T cells against HNSCC cells in vitro
Authors: Wang Xiangjian , Xu Shenjie , Fu Tao , Wu Yang , Sun Weilian
Published: September 2023

Background

Programmed cell death ligand 1 (PD‐L1) and human leukocyte antigen/major histocompatibility complex (HLA/MHC) are two main kinds of immunophenotypes affecting the susceptibility to anti‐PD therapy. Our previous study found that down‐regulation of flap endonuclease‐1 (FEN1) could not only inhibit PD‐L1 expression, but also upregulate HLA expression in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). We aimed to clarify whether downregulating FEN1 cloud enhance the response to PD‐1 blockade, and possible mechanisms in HNSCC in vitro.

Methods

Differential expression of FEN1 in HNSCC tumor and normal tissues were explored in the TIMER and TISIDB datasets. A HNSCC cells/CD8+ T cells co‐culture model was established. HNSCC cell cycle and apoptosis were recorded by flow cytometry. Immune activity markers of granzyme A, granzyme B, and PRF1 expressed in the CD8+ T cells, and IFN‐γ, IL‐2, and TNF‐α secreted in the supernatants were detected by western blot, ELISA, respectively.

Results

FEN1 was highly expressed in HNSCC and associated with low immune infiltration. Downregulating FEN1 could induce HLA class I expression, and inhibit PD‐L1 expression in HNSCC cells. Functionally, FEN1 knockdown enhanced the response to αPD‐1 mAb by mediating G2/M phase arrest, apoptosis of HNSCC cells. Mechanistically, targeting FEN1 synergized with αPD‐1 mAb could reinforce the antitumor response of CD8+ T cells against HNSCC cells, as indicated by increasing granzyme A, granzyme B, and PRF1 expressions, and promoting IFN‐γ, IL‐2, and TNF‐α secretions.

Conclusion

These findings might offer a potential combined strategy for patients resistant to anti‐PD therapy via combining FEN1 knockdown and PD‐1 blockade.
Application of combined tetrad tests and multi‐sip Temporal Check‐All‐That‐Apply to enhance carbonated beverage flavor differentiation
Authors: Feldmeyer Alex , Johnson Adrianne , Hout Danielle Van
Published: September 2023

Sensory discrimination testing is conducted for many reasons, including—but not limited to—flavor matching initiatives. When conducting these tests on carbonated beverages, there is not an established protocol on the best way to differentiate these multifaceted products. This is in part due to the formulations exhibiting a spectrum of carbonation (CO2) levels, flavors and ingredients. This research conducted tetrad tests at four time points of CO2 dissipation (0, 5, 10, and 15 min) and at two temperatures (refrigerated and ambient) to determine the sample preparation scenarios for which the “high discrimination” and “low discrimination” sample differentiation occurred. Subsequently, a select beverage pair was assessed in the “high discrimination” and the “low discrimination” preparation scenarios using multi‐sip Temporal Check‐All‐That‐Apply (TCATA). The objective of this research was to assess if identifying optimal sample preparations that enhanced sample differentiation from a series of tetrad tests allowed for a more discriminatory TCATA assessment. Results indicated that sample preparation significantly affected the ability to differentiate beverages for select attributes, but the “high discrimination” scenario was not always the more differentiating condition. Future work will aim to increase the knowledge of these interactions with additional carbonated products to further validate and generalize these findings.

Practical Applications

Sensory professionals will gain knowledge on how to optimize sample preparation for discovery of scenarios in which carbonated product flavors might be better differentiated.
miR‐335‐5p inhibits endochondral ossification by directly targeting SP1 in TMJ OA
Authors: Xia Simo , Zhao Jiong , Zhang Dahe , Chen Lu , Zhang Yuxin , Shen Pei , Yang Chi
Published: September 2023

Objective

During the development of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis, endochondral ossification is compromised which leads to condylar degeneration; miR‐335‐5p in endochondral ossification in osteoarthritic condylar cartilage tissue remains unclear.

Methods

Up‐regulated microRNA and its target gene were searched for endochondral ossification in osteoarthritis articular cartilage. The effect of increased or decreased miR‐335‐5p on endochondral ossification was evaluated by transfecting miR‐335‐5p mimics or miR‐335‐5p inhibitor in vitro in chondrocytes C28/I2. Finally, we injected the temporomandibular joint of rats intra‐articularly with agomiR‐335 in a unilateral anterior crossbite rat model to determine the in vivo regulation of miR‐335.

Results

After the onset of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis, miR‐335‐5p levels were gradually up‐regulated, whereas endochondral ossification‐related genes were down‐regulated in condylar cartilage specimens. Our results showed that miR‐335 inhibited endochondral ossification after administration of a miR‐335 antagonist into the temporomandibular joint articular cavity of a unilateral anterior crossbite rat model. AgomiR‐335, a miR‐335 agonist, inhibited matrix mineralization in fibrocartilage stem cells in vitro and then miR‐335‐5p negatively regulated chondrocyte activity by directly targeting SP1 via promoting transforming growth factor‐β/Smad signalling.

Conclusion

miR‐335‐5p can significantly inhibit endochondral ossification; therefore, its inhibition may be beneficial for the treatment of temporomandibular joint osteoarthritis.
Neuromodulation for the management of chronic pelvic pain syndromes: A systematic review
Authors: Gish Brandon , Langford Brendan , Sobey Christopher , Singh Chahait , Abdullah Newaj , Walker Jeremy , Gray Hannah , Hagedorn Jon , Ghosh Priyanka , Patel Kiran , Deer Timothy
Published: September 2023

Background

Chronic pelvic pain is a burdensome condition that involves multiple medical sub‐specialties and is often difficult to treat. Sacral stimulation for functional bladder disease has been well established, but little large‐scale evidence exists regarding utilization of other neuromodulation techniques to treat chronic pelvic pain. Emerging evidence does suggest that neuromodulation is a promising treatment, and we aim to characterize the use and efficacy of such techniques for treating chronic pelvic pain syndromes.

Materials and Methods

A systematic review of the literature demonstrating the treatment of chronic pelvic pain syndromes with neuromodulation. Abstracts were reviewed and selected for inclusion, including case series, prospective studies, and randomized controlled trials (RCTs). Case studies and publications in abstract only were not included. The reporting for this systematic review follows Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis (PRISMA). The literature search was performed using MEDLINE, Embase, Cochrane Library, PubMed, CINAHL, and Scopus.

Results

A total of 50 studies were included in this review, three of which were randomized controlled trials, and the remaining were prospective and retrospective case series. The range of pelvic pain conditions treated included interstitial cystitis, peripheral neuralgia, pudendal neuralgia, gastrointestinal pain, urogenital pain, sacroiliac joint pain, and visceral chronic pelvic pain. We reported on outcomes involving pain, functionality, psychosocial improvement, and medication reduction.

Conclusions

Neuromodulation is a growing treatment for various chronic pain syndromes. Peripheral nerve stimulation was the least studied form of stimulation. Posterior tibial nerve stimulation appears to offer short‐term benefit, but long‐term results are challenging. Sacral nerve stimulation is established for use in functional bladder syndromes and appears to offer pain improvement in these patients as well. Dorsal root ganglion stimulation and spinal cord stimulation have been used for a variety of conditions with promising results. Further studies of homogeneous patient populations are necessary before strong recommendations can be made at this time, although pooled analysis may also be impactful.
The Reflective Fostering Programme—Adapting a group parenting programme for online delivery in response to the COVID‐19 pandemic in the United Kingdom
Authors: Redfern Sheila , Pursch Benita , Katangwe‐Chigamba Thando , Sopp Rumour , Irvine Karen , Sprecher Eva A. , Schwaiger Theresa , Midgley Nick
Published: September 2023

Objective

In the context of the Covid‐19 pandemic and subsequent lockdown restrictions, service providers faced significant challenges in delivering programmes to support their vulnerable service users. Foster carers‐an already often isolated group of caregivers ‐ were offered an adapted remote‐delivery model of the Reflective Fostering Programme (Redfern et al., Adopt. Foster., 42, 2018, 234) from March 2020.

Method

This paper outlines the adaptation process of the original programme to online‐remote delivery and describes the feedback from participants in the programme.

Results

The adaptation of the Reflective Fostering programme to online, remote delivery had both strengths and weaknesses ‐ including wider access to foster carers who might struggle to attend in person and challenge a to maintaining a Mentalizing space online and ensuring confidentiality within a therapeutic space. The programme was overwhelmingly well received by foster carers in this format.

Conclusions

There are opportunities and challenges in the delivery of online therapeutic services, particularly those with a group format. This paper contributes initial reflections to what we hope will be a rapidly developing literature on best practice of supporting group services in an online format.
Does household welfare change with finance access? The case of women and the youth in The Gambia
Authors: Manja Laston Petro , Badjie Isatou A.
Published: September 2023

Poor access to finance remains one of the key challenges faced by households and businesses in The Gambia in the face of an underdeveloped financial market. Yet, women and the youth are further disadvantaged as they are reported to face peculiar challenges in finance access, in spite of efforts taken by different stakeholders, including the government. Therefore, this study examines the impacts of various forms of finance on welfare for these marginalized groups by supporting quantitative analyses of the Integrated Household Survey data with some qualitative information. Adopting Lokshin and Sajaia's (2004) endogenous regime switching estimator, due to the nonrandomness of access to finance, the study finds that women households significantly benefit from informal finance through improved food consumption expenditure, and from formal finance through improved income amidst a growing business culture. For the youth, estimates of treatment effects show that informal finance is significantly welfare‐degrading, but formal finance improves almost all measures of welfare. The results reveal, among other things, variations in efficiency and risk attitudes in the use of various forms of finance by the different subpopulations, calling for interventions that increase the level of knowledge and consumer protection.
Indoor soundscape in primary school classrooms
Authors: Visentin Chiara , Torresin Simone , Pellegatti Matteo , Prodi Nicola
Published: September 2023

Soundscape research on indoor environments is emerging as a topic to be addressed for the design of supportive, healthier, and more comfortable spaces. Only a few studies so far addressed the context of educational buildings, mainly focusing on high schools and universities. This pilot study uses questionnaires based on pictorial scales to investigate the indoor soundscape of classrooms for primary school children (n = 130; 8–10 years old). Perceived loudness and the affective dimensions of pleasantness and arousal were explored. Besides the actual soundscape, the children's ideal soundscape was investigated as well. The results of the study indicate that the most frequent sounds in classrooms are generated by the students themselves (voices, movements) followed by the traffic. The urban context of the school modulates the children's perception when windows are open to ensure natural ventilation. Pleasantness is associated with students' age, perceived loudness, and frequency of children's voices in nearby classrooms. The frequency of hearing indoor sounds (children's voices) and sirens affects students' arousal. Our results indicate that children at school are mostly exposed to unpleasant sounds, whereas their preferred ones are music and nature-related ones. The findings have implications for the design of positive and inclusive learning environments.
A Review of the Impact of Sporting Role Model-Led Interventions on Physical Activity and Sport Participation of Female Youth
Authors: Kelly Eimear , Liston Katie , Dowd Kieran , Lane Aoife
Published: September 2023

There is a lack of evidence of on the impact of how sporting role models (SRM) influence adolescent physical activity (PA) and/or sport participation (SP) levels. The main aim of this review was to identify SRM-led interventions and highlight the evidence of impact of SRMs on female adolescents’ participation in PA and/or SP. A systematic review of peer-reviewed literature using key search terms was completed using electronic databases (APA PsycInfo, SPORTDiscus, and PubMed). The inclusion criteria were as follows: (a) Participants were ≤18 years old, (b) results were reported for female participants, (c) the study included an intervention arm/element, (d) an SRM or equivalent terminology was used as part of the intervention, (e) PA levels and/or SP was evaluated, and (f) peer-reviewed articles published in English. A total of 7,169 peer-reviewed articles were identified and screened. A systematic review of grey literature to identify SRM programs was also carried out through Google search engine, direct contact with relevant sporting organizations, and with authors who had written about role models, and 45 programs were identified. Identified documents were screened using the same inclusion criteria as described above. The results identified one peer-reviewed and 15 grey literature programs, all of which were deemed to be of poor quality. The programs revealed a lack of theoretical base and rigor in methodology, no objective PA or SP assessment, poor demographic context of participants and role models, and lack of evaluation.
“Invisible Sportswomen 2.0”—Digging Deeper Into Gender Bias in Sport and Exercise Science Research: Author Gender, Editorial Board Gender, and Research Quality
Authors: Cowley Emma S. , Moore Sam R. , Olenick Alyssa A. , McNulty Kelly L.
Published: September 2023

Objectives: Women are underrepresented as participants in sport and exercise science research, and most of the research is of low quality. To reduce the gender data gap, it is imperative to understand where this bias originates. The purpose of this study was (a) to evaluate the proportion of first and last author, and editorial board gender, and (b) to explore the association between gender and quality of female-specific research methods. Method: Studies exclusively investigating female participants (2014–2021) were extracted from a larger data set and updated through 2022. First author, last author, and editorial board gender were determined (e.g., from gender pronouns on institutional profiles, Google Scholar, and ResearchGate). Where applicable, study methodology was assessed by giving each study a quality score (0–1) based on key methodological considerations. Descriptive statistics were used to describe author and editorial board gender frequencies. Analyses of variance were used to investigate the associations between gender and female-specific methodological quality. Results: Within 438 female-only studies, data revealed a greater proportion of women first authors (55%) and men last authors (62%). There was an association between women authors (first, last, and both) and higher quality score for female-specific methods across all journals (p = .00–.04). The two lowest-ranked journals for quality score demonstrated worse gender parity within their editorial board (0%–12% women). Conclusions: The results from this study show that most female-only studies were senior authored by men. However, studies led by women had higher quality of female-specific methods. Future research is needed to explore gender distribution of senior academics.
Conserving avian evolutionary history can effectively safeguard future benefits for people
Authors: Gumbs Rikki , Gray Claudia L. , Hoffmann Michael , Molina-Venegas Rafael , Owen Nisha R. , Pollock Laura J.
Published: September 2023

Phylogenetic diversity (PD)—the evolutionary history of a set of species—is conceptually linked to the maintenance of yet-to-be-discovered benefits from biodiversity or “option value.” We used global phylogenetic and utilization data for birds to test the PD option value link, under the assumption that the performance of sets of PD-maximizing species at capturing known benefits is analogous to selecting the same species at a point in human history before these benefits were realized. PD performed better than random at capturing utilized bird species across 60% of tests, with performance linked to the phylogenetic dispersion and prevalence of each utilization category. Prioritizing threatened species for conservation by the PD they encapsulate performs comparably to prioritizing by their functional distinctiveness. However, species selected by each metric show low overlap, indicating that we should conserve both components of biodiversity to effectively conserve a variety of uses. Our findings provide empirical support for the link between evolutionary history and benefits for future generations.
Improving mental health by training the suppression of unwanted thoughts
Authors: Mamat Zulkayda , Anderson Michael C.
Published: September 2023

Anxiety, posttraumatic stress, and depression markedly increased worldwide during the COVID-19 pandemic. People with these conditions experience distressing intrusive thoughts, yet conventional therapies often urge them to avoid suppressing their thoughts because intrusions might rebound in intensity and frequency, worsening the disorders. In contrast, we hypothesized that training thought suppression would improve mental health. One hundred and twenty adults from 16 countries underwent 3 days of online training to suppress either fearful or neutral thoughts. No paradoxical increases in fears occurred. Instead, suppression reduced memory for suppressed fears and rendered them less vivid and anxiety provoking. After training, participants reported less anxiety, negative affect, and depression with the latter benefit persisting at 3 months. Participants high in trait anxiety and pandemic-related posttraumatic stress gained the largest and most durable mental health benefits. These findings challenge century-old wisdom that suppressing thoughts is maladaptive, offering an accessible approach to improving mental health.