bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An analysis of iris pattern as a risk factor for skin cancer development in immunosuppressed renal transplant recipients
Authors: Leahy M. , Griffin L. , Prendergast G. , Griffin M. , Laing M.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Renal transplant recipients are at increased risk of keratinocyte skin cancers with a tendency to have multiple, aggressive and difficult to treat tumours. The eye and the skin share the same embryological ectoderm. Iris pattern has recently been reported as a predictive risk factor for skin cancer in non‐immunosuppressed Southern European (Grigore et al., J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol, 2018, 1662) and Irish populations (Ridge et al., J Eur Acad Dermatol Venereol, 2022, e542).

Aims

To analyse if an individual's iris pattern is an independent risk factor for the development of keratinocyte skin cancers in renal transplant recipients.

Methods

Iris patterns of 110 renal transplant recipients were evaluated using the Simionescu visual three‐step technique (iris periphery, colarette and iris freckling [Simionescu et al., Ann Res Rev Biol, 2014, 2525]). Established risk factors for skin cancer in transplant patients were recorded as confounding factors.

Results

Observational cross‐sectional study including 110 renal transplant population. Thirty‐one participants had skin cancer. In the skin cancer group, iris periphery was blue/grey in 74.3% (p = 0.053, OR 2.5), the colarette was light brown in 57.1% (p < 0.0043) and iris freckles were present in 55%(p = 0.044). Dark brown and blue colarettes were observed in controls. Binary Logistic Regression analysis showed light brown colarette is a significant independent risk factor for skin cancer (OR 4.54, p < 0.02, CI 1.56–10.57).

Conclusion

Within this renal transplant population a blue iris periphery, light brown colarette and presence of freckling confers an independent risk for keratinocyte skin cancer. Iris pattern is a useful tool for identification of transplant patients at risk of keratinocyte skin cancer and an easy‐to‐use technique for risk evaluation in this cohort. This is the first study looking at iris pattern and keratinocyte skin cancer risk in renal transplant population.
The larval attachment organ of the bowfin Amia ocellicauda Richardson, 1836 (Amiiformes: Amiidae) and its phylogenetic significance
Authors: Pinion Amanda K. , Britz Ralf , Kubicek Kole M. , Siegel Dustin S. , Conway Kevin W.
Published: August 2023

Larval attachment organs (LAOs) are unicellular or multicellular organs that enable the larvae of many actinopterygian fishes to adhere to a substrate before yolk‐sac absorption and the free‐swimming stage. Bowfins (Amiiformes) exhibit a sizable LAO on the snout, which was first described in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. In this study, we document the LAO of Amia ocellicauda (Richardson, 1836) using a combination of scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and light microscopy, and histochemistry. We examined material representing three stages with SEM ranging in size from 5.8 to 11.2 mm in notochord length and one stage histochemically. We compare the LAO of A. ocellicauda to that of the lepisosteid Atractosteus tropicus Gill, 1863 and show that although the LAOs of A. ocellicauda and A. tropicus are both super‐organs, the two differ in the ultrastructure of the entire organ. A. ocellicauda possesses two distinct lobes, with the organs arranged on the periphery with none in the middle, whereas A. tropicus also possesses two lobes, but with the organs scattered evenly across the super‐organ. The individual organs of A. ocellicauda possess adhesive cells set deep to support cells with the adhesive substance released through a pore, whereas A. tropicus possesses both support cells and adhesive cells sitting at a similar level, with the adhesive substance released directly onto the surface of the organ. We additionally provide a table summarizing vertebrate genera in which attachment organs have been documented and discuss the implications of our study for hypotheses of the homology of attachment organs in the Holostei.
Do gut microbiome‐targeted therapies improve liver function in cirrhotic patients? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Jiang Honglin , Xu Ning , Zhang Wei , Wei Hongjian , Chen Yue , Jiang Qingwu , Zhou Yibiao
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim

Microbiome‐targeted therapies (MTTs) are considered as promising interventions for cirrhosis, but the impact of gut microbiome modulation on liver function and disease severity has not been fully assessed. We comprehensively evaluated the efficacy of MTTs in patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods

Data from randomized controlled trials were collected through MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, and ClinicalTrial.gov from inception to February 20, 2023. Clinical outcomes were pooled and expressed in terms of risk ratios or mean differences (MD). Additional subgroup and sensitivity analyses were performed to validate the robustness of findings. A trial sequential analysis was applied to calculate the required information size and evaluate the credibility of the meta‐analysis results.

Results

Twenty‐one studies with a total of 1699 cirrhotic patients were included for meta‐analysis. MTTs were associated with a significant reduction in aspartate aminotransferase (MD, −3.62; 95% CI, −6.59 to −0.65), the risk of hepatic encephalopathy (risk ratio = 0.56, 95% CI: 0.46 to 0.68), model for end‐stage liver disease score (MD, −0.90; 95% CI, −1.17 to −0.11), ammonia (MD, −11.86; 95% CI, −16.39 to −7.33), and endotoxin (MD, −0.14; 95% CI, −0.23 to −0.04). The trial sequential analysis yielded reliable results of these outcomes. No effects were observed on the changes of other hepatic function indicators.

Conclusion

MTTs appeared to be associated with a slowed deterioration in liver cirrhosis, which could provide reference for clinicians in treatment of cirrhotic patients based on their conditions.
Trauma treatment using Narrative Exposure Therapy adapted to persons with intellectual disabilities or severe chronic mental disorders – a randomised controlled pilot study with an embedded observational study
Authors: Mayer B. , Elbing U. , Ostermann T.
Published: August 2023

Background

Despite an increased likelihood of experiencing traumatic events and increased vulnerability, there are only few publications on trauma therapy for persons with intellectual disabilities (IDs). This pilot study for the first time investigates the feasibility and effectiveness of Narrative Exposure Therapy (NET) within this target group modified by Plain Language.

Methods

A group of n = 10 participants with ID dual diagnoses and another group of n = 5 participants with severe and chronic mental disorders were separately stratified and randomised, then forming together an intervention group (n = 7) and a waiting list control group (n = 8). All participants were treated with NET attuned to their communication abilities by using Plain Language. Primary outcome was the post‐traumatic stress measured with the Post‐Traumatic Symptom Scale‐10 before and after the intervention. In addition, the Adverse Childhood Experience Index was used for diagnostic purposes. Data were analysed using t‐test for repeated measures and analysis of covariance.

Results

Narrative Exposure Therapy and the randomised controlled trial study proved to be successfully conductible with participants with IDs in a congregated residential service. Although the corresponding effect size was high (partial eta square = 0.188), the between‐group difference was not significant (P = 0.12). Analysis of the observational study resulted in a highly significant improvement for participants with IDs (P < 0.001; Hedges' g = 2.36) and in a significant improvement in participants with severe and chronic mental disorders (P < 0.013; Hedges' g = 1.52). Additionally, the participants with IDs show a significantly better reduction of symptom burden (P = 0.03; partial eta square = 0.327).

Conclusions

The results provide a first evidence for a possible and successful implementation of NET modified in Plain Language for persons with IDs and complex mental health support needs. Completeness in responding to the items of Post‐Traumatic Symptom Scale‐10 and Adverse Childhood Experience Index indicates the suitability of these instruments for both groups of participants. Although the group difference in the randomised controlled trial failed to achieve statistical significance mainly due to the small sample size, the results of the embedded observational study are promising for the conduct of further studies with the modified NET.
Taxation and Durable Goods Monopoly*
Authors: Kwak Changhyun , Lee Jihong
Published: August 2023

This paper studies the role of taxation in durable good markets with dynamic monopolies. By conditioning the marginal tax rate on the volume of trade, the regulator can provide incentives for the monopolist to accelerate trade. When marginal cost pricing generates a loss for the monopolist, strategic delay cannot be avoided under regulatory budget constraint and the effects of tax policy depend on the monopolist's ability to commit. In the context of binary consumer types, we find a tax policy involving “back‐loaded subsidy” that achieves the second‐best outcome with commitment. In contrast, without commitment, a “front‐loaded subsidy” improves welfare.
Accuracy, scanning time, and patient satisfaction of stereophotogrammetry systems for acquiring 3D dental implant positions: A systematic review
Authors: Gómez‐Polo Miguel , Barmak Abdul B. , Ortega Rocío , Rutkunas Vygandas , Kois John C. , Revilla‐León Marta
Published: August 2023

Purpose

To evaluate accuracy, scanning time, and patient satisfaction of photogrammetry (PG) systems for recording the 3D position of dental implants.

Material and Methods

A literature search was completed in five databases: PubMed/Medline, Scopus, Embase, World of Science, and Cochrane. A manual search was also conducted. Studies reporting the use of commercially available PG systems were included. Two investigators evaluated the studies independently by applying the Joanna Briggs Institute critical appraisal. A third examiner was consulted to resolve any lack of consensus.

Results

A total of 14 articles were included: 3 in vivo, 6 in vitro, and 6 case report manuscripts. One clinical study evaluated trueness, another one tested precision, and the third one assessed impression time and patient and operator satisfaction. All the in vitro studies evaluated the trueness and precision of a PG system. Additionally, all the reviewed studies investigated completely edentulous conditions with multiple implants. The number of placed implants per arch among the reviewed clinical studies varied from 4 to 8 implants, while the number of implants placed on the reference casts included 4, 5, 6, or 8 implants. Not all the studies compared the accuracy of PG systems with conventional impression methods, using intraoral scanners as additional experimental groups. For the PIC system, trueness ranged from 10 to 49 μm and precision ranged from 5 to 65 μm. For the iCam4D system, trueness ranged from 24 to 77 μm and the precision value ranged from 2 to 203 μm.

Conclusions

PG systems may provide a reliable alternative for acquiring the 3D position of dental implants. However, this conclusion should be interpreted carefully, as one study reported a mean precision value of one PG system higher than the clinically acceptable discrepancy. Lower scanning time and higher patient and operator satisfaction have been reported when compared with conventional techniques. Further studies are needed to increase the evidence regarding the accuracy, scanning time, and patient and operator satisfaction of the commercially available PG systems.
Premature exit from and delayed entrance into the less developed status: An empirical appraisal of the structural funds allocation criterion
Authors: Scotti Francesco , Dell'Agostino Laura , Flori Andrea , Pammolli Fabio
Published: August 2023

This paper investigates the impact of the main criterion employed by the European Commission for the allocation of the largest portion of Structural Funds, based on the threshold of the 75% of European Union (EU) average gross domestic product (GDP) per capita. We focus on the 2014–2020 programming period and on EU‐15 regions to analyze if this criterion has penalized some of them, as a consequence of the 2004 EU enlargement, which has represented an exogenous shock in the allocation process, due to the economic backwardness of new member states. Through the application of Synthetic Control Methods and Difference‐in‐Differences estimators at different geographical scales, we show that regions that did not obtain the less developed status in both the programming period 2007–2013 and 2014–2020, but that would have obtained it in the period 2014–2020 without the 2004 EU enlargement, experienced a significantly lower GDP per capita growth between −10.5% and −5.7%. Conversely, territories that in the period 2014–2020 lost the less developed status, previously obtained in the time frame 2007–2013, were not characterized by a significantly lower economic growth, providing some evidence of the effectiveness of the safety net.
Cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia disorder: Extending the stepped care model
Authors: Baglioni Chiara , Espie Colin A. , Altena Ellemarije , Gavriloff Dimitri , Jernelöv Susanna , Holzinger Brigitte , Schlarb Angelika , Riemann Dieter
Published: August 2023

Despite cognitive behaviour therapy for insomnia (CBT‐I) being the first‐line intervention for the disorder, it is often not readily available to patients in need. The stepped care model (SCM) represents an approach to facilitating efficient and wide‐ranging provision of evidence‐based care to those with insomnia. The SCM reflects a pyramid of therapeutics based on CBT‐I gradually increasing in clinical intensity and addressing clinical complexity. By applying CBT‐I through the SCM it is hoped that the treatment gap can be bridged such that not only more patients can be reached, but that clinical resource can be more effectively distributed, with patients receiving more tailored care as needed. Nevertheless, this should not be done at the risk of a lower quality of care being offered, and high‐standard training for clinicians and scrutiny of non‐clinician led interventions remains important. As national health laws within European countries have substantial differences, the application of the SCM as it relates to the treatment of insomnia may be challenged by contrasting interpretations. In order that the SCM is appropriately implemented: (a) only evidence‐based CBT‐I treatments should be promoted within the model; (b) clinicians involved in SCM should be suitably qualified to offer CBT in general, and have appropriate further training in CBT‐I; (c) professionals involved in interventions not included in the SCM, but related to it, such as preventive and educational programmes, diagnostic procedures, and pharmacological treatments, should also have good knowledge of the SCM in order to promote correct allocation to the appropriate interventional step.
Repeated specific canine pancreatic lipase measurements do not identify multiple acquired portosystemic shunts in dogs after extrahepatic portosystemic shunt attenuation
Authors: Serrano Gonçalo , Devriendt Nausikaa , de Rooster Hilde
Published: August 2023

Background

In dogs with portal hypertension (PH), spec cPL is suggested to be increased despite normal pancreatic histology. After attenuation of congenital extrahepatic portosystemic shunts (cEHPSS), multiple acquired portosystemic shunt (MAPSS) can develop as consequence of sustained PH. Presence of MAPSS affects future therapeutic options and prognosis.

Objective

Evaluate if spec cPL concentrations increase postoperatively in dogs that develop MAPSS and can thus serve as an indicator of PH.

Animals

Twenty‐four dogs with cEHPSS.

Methods

Dogs classified according to surgical outcome after cEHPSS attenuation (8 with MAPSS [group M], 9 with closed cEHPSS [group C] and 7 with patent blood flow through the original cEHPSS, without evidence of MAPSS [group P]). Spec cPL was measured in preoperative samples (T0), 4 days (T1) and 1 (T2) and 3‐ to 6‐months (T3) after surgery.

Results

Spec cPL was within reference interval (<200 μg/L) at all timepoints except at T1. At T1, 2 dogs in group M (321 and >2000 μg/L) and also 1 in group C (688 μg/L) and 1 in group P (839 μg/L) had increased spec cPL concentrations. No differences in spec cPL concentrations between groups or changes over time were identified.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Spec cPL is not consistently increased in dogs that develop MAPSS after cEHPSS attenuation and has no potential as a biomarker for the identification of MAPSS after cEHPSS attenuation.
Novel genetic variant associated with globoid cell leukodystrophy in a family of mixed breed dogs
Authors: Hammack Samantha , Hague Devon Wallis , Vieson Miranda D. , Esdaile Elizabeth , Hughes Shayne S. , Bellone Rebecca R. , McCoy Annette M.
Published: August 2023

Background

Globoid cell leukodystrophy (GCL) is a fatal autosomal recessive disease caused by variants in the galactosylceramidase (GALC) gene. Two dog breed‐specific variants are reported.

Objectives

Characterize the putatively causative GALC variant for GCL in a family of dogs and determine population allele frequency.

Animals

Four related mixed‐breed puppies with signs of neurologic disease were evaluated. Subsequently, 33 related dogs were tested for genetic markers for parentage and the identified GALC variant. Additional GALC genotyping was performed on 278 banked samples from various breeds.

Methods

The 4 affected puppies had neurological exams and necropsies. DNA was isolated from blood samples. Variants in GALC were identified via Sanger sequencing. Parentage testing was performed using short tandem repeat markers. Prevalence of the GALC variant of interest was investigated in other breeds.

Results

GCL was confirmed histopathologically. A novel missense variant in GALC (NC_006590.4:g.58893972G>A) was homozygous in all affected animals (n = 4). A recessive mode of inheritance was confirmed by parentage testing as was variant linkage with the phenotype (LOD = 3.36). Among the related dogs (n = 33), 3 dogs were homozygous and 7 heterozygous. The variant allele was not detected in screening 278 dogs from 5 breeds. The novel variant is either unique to this family or has an extremely low allele frequency in the general population.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

A novel GALC variant was identified that likely explains GCL in this cohort. The identification of multiple causal variants for GCL in dogs is consistent with findings in humans.
Comparison of turbidometric immunoassay and brix refractometry to radial immunodiffusion for assessment of colostral immunoglobulin concentration in beef cattle
Authors: Breuer Ryan M. , Wiley Caitlin , Dohlman Tyler , Smith Joseph S. , McKeen Lauren , Kreuder Amanda J.
Published: August 2023

Background

Colostral immunoglobulin G (IgG) concentration is critical to the attainment of adequate transfer of passive immunity in cattle, however, studies comparing available tools for measurement of colostral IgG concentration in beef cattle are limited.

Objectives

To report the agreement between 3 commercially available tests for evaluating IgG concentration in beef colostrum.

Animals

Two hundred six beef‐breed cows hospitalized for calving management or dystocia.

Methods

Retrospective study to assess IgG of whole colostrum measured stall‐side via turbidimetric immunoassay (TI) and brix refractometry (BRIX), compared to fat separated (FS) analysis via single radial‐immunodiffusion (RID; reference standard), TI‐FS and BRIX‐FS. Test performance was assessed using Passing Bablock regression, Bland‐Altman analysis, and area under the curve to determine optimal thresholds.

Results

Correlation between RID and TI‐FS, BRIX‐FS, or BRIX was similar (Spearman's ρ = 0.717, 0.715, 0.716, respectively) but correlation for TI was poor (ρ = 0.586). Regression analysis identified a substantial constant (−214.75 [CI: −272.03 to −178.07]) and proportional (13.24 [CI: 11.81‐15.37]) bias between the RID and TI‐FS which was similar for TI. TI‐FS concentrations of 28.47, 38.75, and 50.62 g/L, BRIX‐FS of ≤21.9%, ≤24.0%, and ≤27.4%, and BRIX of ≤21.3%, ≤23.8%, and ≤26.4% indicated IgG concentrations <50, <100, and <150 g/L, respectively; appropriate cutoffs for TI could not be generated.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Both TI and TI‐FS demonstrated a large constant and proportional bias compared to RID; BRIX and BRIX‐FS were well correlated with RID and remain a reliable method for estimation of colostral IgG concentration in beef cattle.
A systematic review of migrant women's experiences of successful exclusive breastfeeding in high‐income countries
Authors: Izumi Chieko , Trigg Joshua , Stephens Jacqueline H.
Published: August 2023

The World Health Organisation recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first 6 months after childbirth. However, since breastfeeding is influenced by cultural practice, it differs between migrant mothers and nonmigrant mothers. This systematic review examined migrant mothers' perceptions and experiences impacting achievement of exclusive breastfeeding after immigration from a low‐middle‐income country to a high‐income country. CINAHL, Medline, Scopus, Web of Science, PsycINFO and Emcare were searched for qualitative studies published from 2010 to August 2022. Eleven studies met inclusion criteria. We used meta‐ethnographic synthesis to identify overarching themes, resulting in five themes: Migrant mothers (1) ‘recognised the differences in breastfeeding practice between their home and host country’. During acculturation, mothers modify or stick to their breastfeeding practice in their host country based on their (2) ‘breastfeeding knowledge’ by combining their (3) ‘original ethnic identity’ with the (4) ‘influence of family members, healthcare workers, infants, peers and workplace’. Although they face barriers, their (5) ‘autonomy’ motivated them to continue breastfeeding in a country where the breastfeeding norm differs from where they come from. Intrapersonal and interpersonal socio‐ecological factors played a significant role in their breastfeeding practice in the host country. Findings indicate public health policy and practice to support breastfeeding for migrant women in high‐income countries can be improved, particularly by emphasising the importance of providing affirmative, comprehensive and practical support from healthcare professionals.
The effect of childbirth trauma on willingness to donate milk in women following perinatal loss: The mediating role of resilience
Authors: Li Fengling , Shi Qi , Xiong Tao , Li Yang , Zheng Yuxi , Jiang Guolu , Duan Diana S. , Wei Xuemei , Cui Lijun , Chen Zhaoxia
Published: August 2023

Limited studies have been conducted on Chinese women's willingness to donate milk following perinatal loss. In this study, we explore the relationship among childbirth trauma, willingness to donate milk, and resilience in women following perinatal loss, and the mediating effect of resilience between childbirth trauma and willingness to donate milk. A cross‐sectional study was carried out throughout 4 months. We used convenience sampling methods and recruited 241 women following a perinatal loss from eight tertiary hospitals in Sichuan Province, China. Participants completed four questionnaires during a face‐to‐face individual interview: the general information questionnaire, the Willingness to Donate Milk Scale (WMDS), the City Birth Trauma Scale, and the Brief Resilience Scale. SPSS 20.0 was used to analyze the collected data. In our study, childbirth trauma was negatively correlated with the total and each dimension score of WMDS (p < 0.001). Resilience was positively correlated with the total and each dimension score of WMDS (p < 0.001). Resilience partially mediated the relationship between childbirth‐related symptoms and willingness to donate milk (β = −0.38, 95% confidence interval [CI]: −0.50 to −0.26), which accounted for 69.03% of the total effect. Resilience partially mediated the relationship between general symptoms and willingness to donate milk (β = −0.31, 95% CI: −0.40 to −0.21), which accounted for 66.89% of the total effect. Resilience partially mediated the relationship between childbirth trauma and willingness to donate milk in women following perinatal loss. Our findings suggest that resilience can play a significant role in mediating the relationship between childbirth trauma and willingness to donate milk in women following perinatal loss. These results could help healthcare professionals design interventions for physical and mental recovery after perinatal loss.
Gene co‐option, duplication and divergence of cement proteins underpin the evolution of bioadhesives across barnacle life histories
Authors: Wong Yue Him , Dreyer Niklas , Liu HaoCheng , Lan Yi , Chen Jamie J. , Sun Jin , Zhang Wei‐Peng , Qian Pei‐Yuan , Chan Benny K. K.
Published: August 2023

Acquisition of new genes often results in the emergence of novel functions and is a key step in lineage‐specific adaptation. As a group of sessile crustaceans, barnacles establish permanent attachment through initial cement secretion at the larval phase followed by continuous cement secretion in juveniles and adults. However, the origins and evolution of barnacle larval and adult cement proteins remain poorly understood. By performing microdissection of larval cement glands, transcriptome and shotgun proteomics and immunohistochemistry validation, we identified 30 larval and 27 adult cement proteins of the epibiotic turtle barnacle Chelonibia testudinaria, of which the majority are stage‐ and barnacle‐specific. While only two proteins, SIPC and CP100K, were expressed in both larvae and adults, detection of protease inhibitors and the cross‐linking enzyme lysyl oxidase paralogs in larvae and adult cement. Other barnacle‐specific cement proteins such as CP100k and CP52k likely share a common origin dating back at least to the divergence of Rhizocephala and Thoracica. Different CP52k paralogues could be detected in larval and adult cement, suggesting stage‐specific cement proteins may arise from duplication followed by changes in expression timing of the duplicates. Interestingly, the biochemical properties of larval‐ and adult‐specific CP52k paralogues exhibited remarkable differences. We conclude that barnacle larval and adult cement systems evolved independently, and both emerged from co‐option of existing genes and de novo formation, duplication and functional divergence of lineage‐specific cement protein genes. Our findings provide important insights into the evolutionary mechanisms of bioadhesives in sessile marine invertebrates.
Bringing the body into play: The corporeal aspect in second language acquisition
Authors: Witte Arnd
Published: August 2023

This article foregrounds the role of the learner's experienced and expressive body in the process of action‐oriented intercultural second language acquisition (SLA), drawing on phenomenological and related research on embodiment. It suggests that processes of perception, cognition, intentionality, and action are fundamentally shaped by the preconscious experiences of the moving body and its real‐time, unmediated interaction with affordances of the social, cultural, and material environment. The prereflective corporeal resonances and experiences provide foundational orientations and scaffoldings for perceptive, emotive, and cognitive processes, emerging through situated bodily activities. Thus, the explicit integration of learners’ active bodies in SLA processes mobilizes largely untapped resources of embodied learning. Preconscious resonances with the second language and the cultural other can be directly sensed in, through, and with the body, allowing for spontaneous behavior to flow naturally in intercultural situations. By engaging the active body in SLA, elements of body memory, and not just episodic memory, are continually reenacted and actualized. The regular training of attentiveness to the corporeal resonances with and adaptive responses to the affordances in the SLA process serves to orientate and scaffold hermeneutical learning and to anchor it in learners’ life experience.
Tracking learnables and teachables in L2 Arabic dyadic conversations‐for‐learning
Authors: Al Masaeed Khaled
Published: August 2023

This article adopts learning‐behavior tracking as a research methodology within conversation analysis for second language acquisition to investigate its applicability to track and document how learning opportunities through collaborative repair work are brought about and whether they lead to second language (L2) word learning. To this end, the study examines longitudinal video‐recorded data from L2 Arabic dyadic conversations‐for‐learning beyond the classroom over 3 months. Findings highlight empirical and methodological contributions. First, the detailed analyses show that other‐initiated repair of a vocabulary item by the first language (L1) conversation partner is found to create opportunities for learning and lead to learning when it is oriented to as worthy of teaching by the L1 speaker and as a learnable by the L2 learner. Second, the study demonstrates the applicability of the learning‐behavior tracking model in illuminating learnables and teachables and providing evidence for whether learning has occurred as a result of being oriented to as such by both participants in real‐time interaction.
Optimal timing for therapeutic drug monitoring of voriconazole to prevent adverse effects in Japanese patients
Authors: Hanai Yuki , Ueda Takashi , Hamada Yukihiro , Oda Kazutaka , Takahashi Yoshiko , Nakajima Kazuhiko , Miyazaki Yoshitsugu , Kiriyama Mone , Uekusa Shusuke , Matsuo Kazuhiro , Matsumoto Kazuaki , Kimura Toshimi , Takesue Yoshio
Published: August 2023

Background

The optimal timing for therapeutic drug monitoring (TDM) of voriconazole in Asians, who have higher rates of poor metabolisers than non‐Asians, is unclear. This can cause unexpectedly high concentrations and delays in reaching steady‐state levels.

Objectives

To determine the appropriate timing of TDM in Japanese patients receiving voriconazole.

Patients/Methods

Trough levels (Cmin) were measured on days 3–5 (recommended timing, RT) and days 6–14 (delayed timing, DT) after starting voriconazole in patients receiving an appropriate dosage. Considering bioavailability, Cmin was only compared in patients receiving oral voriconazole.

Results

A total of 289 and 186 patients were included in the safety and pharmacokinetic analyses, respectively. There was a significant difference in Cmin measured no later than and after day 5 (3.59 ± 2.12 [RT] vs. 4.77 ± 3.88 μg/mL [DT], p = .023), whereas no significant difference was observed on cutoff day 6 (3.91 ± 2.60 vs. 4.40 ± 3.94 μg/mL, p = .465), suggesting that Cmin close to the steady‐state was achieved after day 5. DT causes a delay in achieving the therapeutic range. The hepatotoxicity rates were 21.5% and 36.8% in the RT and DT groups, respectively (p = .004); DT was an independent risk factor for hepatotoxicity.

Conclusion

Although steady‐state concentrations may not be achieved by day 5, early dose optimisation using RT can prevent hepatotoxicity in Japanese patients. TDM should be performed on days 3–5 to ensure safety. However, subsequent TDM may be necessary due to a possible further increase in Cmin.
Association of Kallikrein Related Peptidase 3 (KLK3) gene with dermatophytosis in the UK biobank cohort
Authors: Lehrer Steven , Rheinstein Peter H.
Published: August 2023

Background

In a previous genome wide association study (GWAS) of UK Biobank (UKB) data, we identified one susceptibility locus, tubulointerstitial nephritis antigen (TINAG), with genome wide significance for dermatophytosis. We used genotype calls from file UKB22418. These data are derived directly from Affymetrix DNA microarrays but are missing many genotype calls. Using computationally efficient approaches, UKB has entered imputed genotypes into a second dataset, UKB22828, increasing the number of testable variants by over 100‐fold to 96 million variants.

Methods

In the current study, we used UKB imputed genotypes in UKB22828 to identify dermatophytosis susceptibility loci. To identify cases of dermatophytosis, we used ICD10 code B35, which covers tinea barbae, tinea capitis, tinea unguium, tinea manuum, tinea pedis, tinea corporis, tinea imbricata, tinea cruris, other dermatophytoses and dermatophytosis, unspecified. We used PLINK, a whole‐genome association analysis toolset, to analyse the UKB22828 chromosome files.

Results

GWAS summary (Manhattan) plot of the meta‐analysis association statistics highlighted two susceptibility loci, TINAG and Kallikrein Related Peptidase 3 (KLK3), with genome wide significance for dermatophytosis. KLK3, also known as prostate specific antigen (PSA), belongs to a subclass of serine proteases with a variety of physiological functions.

Conclusion

KLK3 may be a dermatophytosis susceptibility gene. KLK3 could affect risk of dermatophytosis, since kallikreins are necessary for normal homeostasis of the skin.
Quantifying effects of cold acclimation and delayed springtime photosynthesis resumption in northern ecosystems
Authors: Luo Yunpeng , Gessler Arthur , D'Odorico Petra , Hufkens Koen , Stocker Benjamin D.
Published: August 2023

Land carbon dynamics in temperate and boreal ecosystems are sensitive to environmental change. Accurately simulating gross primary productivity (GPP) and its seasonality is key for reliable carbon cycle projections. However, significant biases have been found in early spring GPP simulations of northern forests, where observations often suggest a later resumption of photosynthetic activity than predicted by models.

Here, we used eddy covariance‐based GPP estimates from 39 forest sites that differ by their climate and dominant plant functional types. We used a mechanistic and an empirical light use efficiency (LUE) model to investigate the magnitude and environmental controls of delayed springtime photosynthesis resumption (DSPR) across sites.

We found DSPR reduced ecosystem LUE by 30–70% at many, but not all site‐years during spring. A significant depression of LUE was found not only in coniferous but also at deciduous forests and was related to combined high radiation and low minimum temperatures.

By embedding cold‐acclimation effects on LUE that considers the delayed effects of minimum temperatures, initial model bias in simulated springtime GPP was effectively resolved. This provides an approach to improve GPP estimates by considering physiological acclimation and enables more reliable simulations of photosynthesis in northern forests and projections in a warming climate.
Seedling performance in a dioecious tree species is similar near female and male conspecific adults despite differences in colonization by arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Eck Jenalle L. , Delavaux Camille S. , Wilson Dara M. , Queenborough Simon A. , Comita Liza S.
Published: August 2023

Plant–soil feedbacks (PSFs) are a key driver of species diversity and composition in plant communities worldwide; however, the factors that may cause feedbacks to vary within species are rarely examined. In dioecious species, the strength of feedbacks may differ near female plants that produce seed versus near male plants (which do not) because repeated inputs of seeds and high seedling densities near females may cause accumulation of host‐specific soil microbes that influence seedling performance. To test whether conspecific seedling performance is reduced near seed‐producing female trees relative to male or heterospecific trees, we conducted shadehouse and field experiments with a dioecious tropical tree species, Virola surinamensis (Myristicaceae), on Barro Colorado Island, Panama. The shadehouse experiment isolated the effect of soil microbial communities on seedling growth and allowed us to quantify colonization by mutualistic arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi, while the field experiment allowed us to assess seedling survival and growth in the presence of nearby conspecific adults and seedlings. In both experiments, seedling performance was similar between seedlings grown in the soil microbial communities and field environments underneath female conspecific, male conspecific, and heterospecific trees. However, contrary to expectation, seedling colonization by AM fungi was higher in male conspecific soil microbial communities than in female or heterospecific soil microbial communities at the end of the shadehouse experiment. Together, our experiments show that while differences among female and male plants in dioecious species may influence the association of conspecific seedlings with AM fungi in their soils, this variation does not necessarily translate directly to differences in seedling performance, at least over the time frame of our experiments. Studies of additional dioecious species are needed to help determine differences in soil microbial communities beneath male and female plants and to assess the role of seed input versus adult root systems in driving PSFs.
Left ventricular CRT‐D lead implantation using the retrograde approach following lateral vein balloon angioplasty
Authors: Ciechański Erwin , Denysiuk Piotr , Ciechański Krystian , Chromiński Tomasz , Szczasny Marcin , Błaszczak Piotr , Głowniak Andrzej
Published: August 2023

A 60‐year‐old female with heart failure with reduced left ventricle ejection fraction, implantable cardiac defibrillator and left bundle branch block was admitted to Department of Cardiology for cardiac resynchronization therapy defibrillator upgrade. Due to difficulties with advancement of left ventricular lead to lateral coronary vein, balloon angioplasty with use of retrograde approach via collateral branches and two CS sheaths positioning was performed. Final position of lead in lateral vein was achieved resulting with pacing threshold of 0.7 V/0.5 ms, impedance of 720 Ω and QRS of 130 ms.
Device implantation complicated by a retrosternal goiter
Authors: Elshafie Sally , Tariq Abu Taher , Leon Francisco Leyva
Published: August 2023

Central venous obstruction in the cardiac implantable electronic devices (CIED) population is commonly due to thrombosis and fibrosis secondary to the passage of pre‐existing leads. However, vein occlusion before CIED implantation is uncommon, and one cause is retrosternal goiters. We report a case where the failure of the initial implantation of a primary CIED led to an unusual implantation route without goiter excision. The patient had an indication for cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) given his left ventricular (LV) function was impaired and had second‐degree heart block Mobitz Type II; however, he had occluded bilateral subclavian veins due to a sizeable retrosternal goiter. This obstruction led to the implantation of a single lead pacemaker via the right femoral vein after multiple failed attempts at CRT, dual chamber pacemaker and left bundle branch area pacing (LBBaP).
Brain‐derived subgroups of bipolar II depression associate with inflammation and choroid plexus morphology
Authors: Cao Yuan , Lizano Paulo , Deng Gaoju , Sun Huan , Zhou Xiaoqin , Xie Hongsheng , Zhan Yaru , Mu Jingshi , Long Xipeng , Xiao Hongqi , Liu Shiyu , Gong Qiyong , Qiu Changjian , Jia Zhiyun
Published: August 2023

Aim

Elevated inflammation and larger choroid plexus (ChP) volume has been previously identified in mood disorders. Connections between inflammation, ChP, and clinical symptoms in bipolar II depression (BDII‐D) are unclear. Data‐driven clustering based on neuroanatomical phenotypes may help to elucidate neurobiological associations in BDII‐D.

Methods

Inflammatory cytokines, clinical symptoms, and neuroanatomical features were assessed in 150 BDII‐D patients. Sixty‐eight cortical surface area (SA) and 19 subcortical volumes were extracted using FreeSurfer. The ChP volume was segmented manually using 3D Slicer. Regularized canonical correlation analysis was used to identify significantly correlated components between cortical SA and subcortical volumes (excluding the ChP), followed by k‐means clustering to define brain‐derived subgroups of BDII‐D. Low‐grade inflammation was derived by averaging the standardized z scores of interleukin (IL)‐6, IL‐1β, and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α), which were computed to create a composite z‐value score. Partial Pearson correlations followed by multiple comparison correction were conducted to explore associations between inflammation, clinical symptoms, and ChP volume.

Results

Subgroup I demonstrated smaller subcortical volume and cortical SA, higher inflammation, and larger ChP volume compared with subgroup II. Greater ChP volume was associated with a higher low‐grade inflammation (mean r = 0.289, q = 0.003), CRP (mean r = 0.249, q = 0.007), IL‐6 (left r = 0.200, q = 0.03), and TNF‐α (right r = 0.226, q = 0.01), while greater IL‐1β was significantly associated with severe depressive symptoms in BDII‐D (r = 0.218, q = 0.045).

Conclusions

Neuroanatomically‐derived subgroups of BDII‐D differed in their inflammation levels and ChP volume. These findings suggest an important role of elevated peripheral inflammation and larger ChP in BDII‐D.
Intralesional measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine after failure of intralesional Candida antigen for the treatment of recalcitrant pediatric warts
Authors: Ulschmid Caden M. , Patel Jay , Pan Amy Y. , Liegl Melodee , Holland Kristen E.
Published: August 2023

Numerous studies have investigated the efficacy of intralesional immunotherapy for warts, but there are a lack of studies investigating the efficacy of alternative intralesional immunotherapies following failure of initial intralesional immunotherapy. In this retrospective study, we aimed to investigate the efficacy of intralesional measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine for the treatment of pediatric warts following failure of intralesional therapy with Candida antigen. Following intralesional measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine administration, 8/51 (15.5%) patients had complete resolution of their warts, 6/51 (12%) had near complete resolution, 19/51 (37%) had partial improvement, 12/51 (23.5%) had no change, and 6/51 (12%) had worsening. Although limited by retrospective nature and low sample size, our results demonstrate that intralesional immunotherapy with measles, mumps, and rubella vaccine provides an alternative therapeutic option for the treatment of recalcitrant pediatric warts in patients who fail to respond to intralesional Candida antigen.
Coupling of NAD(P)H:FMN‐oxidoreductase and luciferase from luminous bacteria in a viscous medium: Finding the weakest link in the chain
Authors: Sutormin Oleg S. , Nemtseva Elena V. , Gulnov Dmitry V. , Sukovatyi Lev A. , Tyrtyshnaya Yekaterina S. , Lisitsa Albert E. , Kratasyuk Valentina A.
Published: August 2023

The study aims at revealing the mechanisms of the viscous medium effects on the kinetic features of NAD(P)H:FMN‐oxidoreductase from luminous bacteria (Red), which are exhibited in a single enzyme assay and in coupling with bacterial luciferase (BLuc). Different concentrations of glycerol and sucrose were used to vary the medium viscosity. The activity of Red, alone and in the presence of BLuc, was analyzed, as well as BLuc activity in the presence of Red, whereas in the absence of BLuc, the Red activity was suppressed in viscous medium, and in the presence of BLuc, the increase in Red activity was observed at low glycerol concentrations (5–20 wt%). The interaction of glycerol and sucrose with Red substrates FMN and NADH was studied using absorption spectroscopy and molecular dynamics. Glycerol was found to form hydrogen bonds with the phosphate groups of the substrates, unlike sucrose. A mechanism for the activation of Red in the presence of BLuc in glycerol solutions through the acceleration of FMN reoxidation was proposed. Thus, it was concluded that, under the conditions used, the weakest link of the coupled enzyme system BLuc‐Red in viscous medium is the FMN concentration, which depends on Red activity and the medium viscosity.
Evaluation of the effectiveness and safety of combined oral and topical photoprotection with a standardized extract of Polypodium leucotomos (Fernblock®) in a Moroccan population with xeroderma pigmentosum
Authors: El Mansouri M. , Essaddouki S. , Mouradi M. , Oukerroum A. , El Fatoiki F. Z. , Truchuelo M. T. , Vitale M. A. , González S. , Chiheb S.
Published: August 2023

Background

Xeroderma pigmentosum (XP) is a rare autosomal‐recessive genodermatosis resulting from a DNA‐repair defect syndrome. The purpose was to evaluate the prevention on new malignant lesions in patients taking a supplement with Fernblock® (Polypodium leucotomos extract [PLE]) and secondarily correlation with the photoprotective behavior.

Methods

A prospective, single‐center and open cohort study was conducted over a 12‐month period. The study was performed in Morocco. Optimal photoprotection behavior was recommended. Patients were instructed to take one capsule containing 480 mg of Fernblock® and 5 mcg vitamin D and to apply sunscreen with a SPF50+ and Fernblock® every 2 h during sun exposure. The demographic, clinical, and dermatoscopic patient data were collected at baseline (T0) and following visits at 3 months (T3), 6 months (T6), and 12 months (T12) when it was assessed: Investigator Global Assessment (IGA), Patient/Guardian Global Assessment (PGA), Patient/Guardian Satisfaction Questionnaire, and Photographic and Adverse Events Registration. Pertinent statistical study was performed.

Results

Eighteen patients completed the study. Eleven patients (61%) finished the study without new lesions. Seven patients developed new lesions by the end of the study. Among them, only 30% showed an ideal photoprotective behavior. The lack of an optimal photoprotective behavior increased the probability of developing lesions by 2.5 times with 95% confidence interval.

Conclusions

In our study, more than 60% of patients taking a supplement with Fernblock® did not develop new lesions, and furthermore, we detected that patients following almost ideal photoprotection were 2.5 times less likely to develop NMSC lesions.