bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Secular trend and urban–rural disparity for age at spermarche among Chinese Han boys from 1995 to 2019
Authors: Shi Di , Ma Ning , Liu Yunfei , Dang Jiajia , Zhong Panliang , Cai Shan , Hu Peijin , Ma Jun , Song Yi , Lau Patrick W. C.
Published: December 2022

Aim

To examine the secular trend and the urban–rural disparity of spermarche among Chinese Han boys from 1995 to 2019.

Methods

A total of 392 775 boys of Han ethnicity aged 11–18 years were extracted from the 1995, 2000, 2005, 2010, 2014 and 2019 Chinese National Surveys on Students' Constitution and Health. The median age at spermarche was estimated using the status quo data and probit analysis. The chi‐square, ANOVA and LSD tests were used to compare the differences between the year‐subgroups. U‐test was used to compare the difference between urban and rural areas at each year.

Results

The median age at spermarche in Chinese Han boys decreased from 14.6 years in 1995 to 13.9 years in 2019 (p < 0.001). The rural boys showed a faster decreasing pace with a 1‐year advance of age at spermarche while the urban boys had only a 0.5‐year decrement, and there was still a statistically significant difference between urban–rural areas in 2019 (p < 0.001). Similar to urban–rural disparity, the age gap at spermarche between areas with different urbanisation rates became smaller over time.

Conclusions

In general, spermarche in Chinese Han boys showed a decreasing trend, but the pace was slowing down. The urban–rural disparity in puberty development still existed but was gradually narrowing.
Improved respiratory parameters with skin‐to‐skin contact in premature infants with bronchopulmonary dysplasia on NIV‐NAVA
Authors: Serrano‐Llop Ana , De‐Rooy Laura , Duffy Donovan , Kulkarni Anay , Shetty Sandeep
Published: December 2022

Aim

To determine if skin‐to‐skin contact (SSC) improved respiratory parameters in premature infants with evolving or established bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) on non‐invasive neutrally adjusted ventilator assist (NIV‐NAVA).

Methods

Premature infants (<32 weeks gestational age) with BPD on NIV‐NAVA were studied. Continuous readings from the Edi catheter (modified nasogastric feeding tube inserted for NAVA ventilation) were compared: pre‐SSC (baby in incubator) and end‐SSC (just before end of SSC).

Results

Sixty‐five episodes of SSC were recorded in 12 premature infants with median gestational age at birth of 24.4 (23.1–27.0) weeks and birth weight of 642 (530–960) grams. Peak Edi (uV) in end‐SSC 11.5 (2.7–38.7) was significantly lower compared to pre‐SSC 15.8 (4.0–36.6), p < 0.001. P mean (cmH2O) was significantly lower in end‐SSC 9.7 (7.3–15.4) compared to pre‐SSC 10.3 (7.5–15.5), p = 0.008. Respiratory rate (breaths/min) was significantly lower in end‐SSC 52.9 (31.1–78.1) compared to pre‐SSC 53.4 (35.1–74.1), p = 0.031. There was no significant difference in inspired oxygen requirement or time on back‐up mode in end‐SSC 40.0 (22.1–56.1) and 5.9 (0.0–56.0) compared to pre‐SSC 39.0 (26.0–56.1) and 5.1 (0.0–29.3), p = 0.556 and p = 0.853 respectively.

Conclusion

SSC improved respiratory parameters in premature infants with evolving or established BPD on NIV‐NAVA.
E‐commerce adoption among Moroccan agricultural cooperatives: Between structural challenges and immense business performance potential
Authors: Jabbouri Imad , Jabbouri Rachid , Bahoum Karim , El Hajjaji Yasmine
Published: December 2022

This paper explores the barriers that Moroccan agricultural cooperatives face in adopting E‐commerce and the perceived impact this approach would hae on their business performance. We surveyed 120 Moroccan agricultural cooperatives and interviewed 13 cooperative presidents to collect both quantitative and qualitative data. We use descriptive and inferential statistics including independent t‐tests, One‐way ANOVA and post‐hoc analysis for quantitative data while we use thematic analysis for qualitative analysis. We document that the most important barrier to the adoption of E‐commerce in Moroccan agricultural cooperatives is the lack of information related to the low digital literacy of the cooperatives in question. Further, cooperatives believe that E‐commerce will have the highest impact on their brand image and competitiveness but will have the lowest impact on operating speed. Our results show that the higher the level of digitalization the higher the perceived impact of E‐commerce on business performance of Moroccan cooperatives. Our study provides a basis for understanding the challenges faced by Moroccan agricultural cooperatives in adopting E‐commerce. Our results can be used to craft policies and programs that ease the integration of this segment into the digital ecosystem of Morocco.
A moderated mediation effect of symbolic and substantive preventive actions on employees’ preventive behavior in the context of Covid‐19
Authors: Nawaz Asif , Soomro Shuaib Ahmed , Batool Samar , Rani Hira , Aslam Arsalan
Published: December 2022

This study utilizes Social Information Processing (SIP) theory to investigate the relationship between organizational preventive actions (substantive vs. symbolic), employee preventive behavior, the mediating role of conspiracy beliefs, and moderating role of leadership integrity in the context of Covid‐19. The study explains leadership integrity as a boundary condition to facilitate or hinder the mediated relationship between organizational actions and employee preventive behavior (EPB). The hypothesized model was tested using partial least square structural equation modeling (PLS‐SEM) on two‐wave data collected from 281 respondents. The results revealed that substantive actions do not predict EPB directly but through conspiracy beliefs. Contrary to these, symbolic actions negatively predict EPB directly. Leadership integrity moderates the relationship between substantive actions and conspiracy beliefs, while the interaction effect with symbolic actions is not supported. The findings of this study caution managers to walk their talk because employees critically observe the most apparent actions, especially when management fails to practice them. The study contributes to social information processing theory by pointing to leadership integrity as a source of authenticity to curb the negative impact of symbolic actions and catalyst the effect of substantive actions on employee preventive behavior.
Effects of ABCB1 polymorphisms on the transport of ponatinib into the cerebrospinal fluid in Japanese Philadelphia chromosome‐positive acute lymphoblastic leukaemia patients
Authors: Fukushi Yayoi , Akamine Yumiko , Abumiya Maiko , Tozawa Nagi , Yamashita Takaya , Nara Miho , Kameoka Yoshihiro , Takahashi Naoto , Miura Masatomo
Published: December 2022

The effects of polymorphisms of ABCB1 and ABCG2 on the dose‐adjusted plasma trough concentrations and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF)‐to‐plasma ratios of ponatinib were evaluated. Blood (C4) and CSF (CSF4) concentrations at 4 h after administration were determined. The median (95% confidence interval) CSF4‐to‐C4 ratio of ponatinib in subjects homozygous for ABCB1 variants 1236T/T, 2677T/T + T/A or 3435T/T were significantly higher than that in a group of subjects with other genotypes (P = .026, .012 and .015, respectively). The median (95% confidence interval) CSF4‐to‐C4 ratio of ponatinib in 4 patients with the combination of ABCB1 variants 1236T/T‐2677T/T + T/A‐3435T/T was 2.62% (1.42–3.42%); this ratio was significantly higher than that in subjects with other genotypes (1.08% [0.89–1.47%]; P = .006). The brain distribution of ponatinib was affected by ABCB1 polymorphisms and therefore seems to be modulated by P‐glycoprotein at the blood–brain and blood–CSF barriers.
Relapse patterns in early‐PET negative, limited‐stage Hodgkin lymphoma (HL) after ABVD with or without radiotherapy–a joint analysis of EORTC/LYSA/FIL H10 and NCRI RAPID trials
Authors: Fiaccadori Valeria , Neven Anouk , Fortpied Catherine , Aurer Igor , Andre Marc , Federico Massimo , Counsell Nicholas , Phillips Elizabeth H. , Clifton‐Hadley Laura , Barrington Sally F. , Illidge Timothy , Radford John , Raemaekers John M. M.
Published: December 2022

In the H10 and RAPID randomised trials, chemotherapy+radiotherapy (combined modalities treatment, CMT) was compared with chemotherapy (C) in limited‐stage Hodgkin lymphoma (HL), with negative early positron emission tomography (ePETneg). We analysed patterns of relapses in the H10 trial, validated findings in the RAPID trial and performed a combined analysis stratified by trial. The impact of radiotherapy (RT) on risk of relapse was studied using adjusted Cox models, with time‐varying effects. In H10, 1,059 ePETneg patients were included (465 European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer (EORTC) favourable [F], 594 unfavourable [U]). Among the F patients, 2/227 (1%) relapsed after CMT, 30/238 (13%) after C: of these relapses, 21/30 (70%) occurred in less than 2 years and 25/30 (83%) affected originally involved areas. Among the U group, 16/292 (5%) relapsed after CMT: 8/16 (50%) in less than 2 years, 11/16 (69%) in originally involved areas. After C 30/302 (10%) relapsed: 27/30 (90%) in less than 2 years, and 26/30 (87%) in originally involved areas. Similar results were observed in 419 ePETneg RAPID patients (241 F, 128 U, 50 unclassified): among F patients, 6/118 (5%) relapsed after CMT; 13/123 (11%) after C: 11/13 (85%) in less than 2 years and 11/13 (85%) affecting originally involved areas. In U patients, 3/65 (5%) relapsed after CMT and 5/63 (8%) after C. In both trials, omitting RT in ePETneg HL resulted in more early relapses, mainly affecting originally involved areas. RT significantly reduced risk of early relapses in the combined stratified analysis.
SARS‐CoV‐2 infection and vaccination in patients with hairy‐cell leukaemia
Authors: Tiacci Enrico , Mancini Alessandro , Marchetti Monia , D'Elia Gianna Maria , Candoni Anna , Morotti Alessandro , Romano Alessandra , Gozzetti Alessandro , Broccoli Alessandro , De Carolis Luca , Bruna Riccardo , Tisi Maria Chiara , Selleri Carmine , Capponi Monia , Vallisa Daniele , Cattaneo Chiara , Della Porta Matteo Giovanni , Busca Alessandro , Falini Brunangelo , Massaia Massimo , Bertù Lorenza , Pulsoni Alessandro , Rivela Paolo , Corradini Paolo , Passamonti Francesco
Published: December 2022

Little is known of the course of COVID‐19 and the antibody response to infection or vaccination in patients with hairy‐cell leukaemia (HCL). Among a total of 58 HCL cases we studied in these regards, 37 unvaccinated patients, mostly enjoying a relatively long period free from anti‐leukaemic treatment, developed COVID‐19 between March 2020 and December 2021 with a usually favourable outcome (fatality rate: 5/37, 14%); however, active leukaemia, older age and more comorbidities were associated with a worse course. Postinfection (n = 11 cases) and postvaccination (n = 28) seroconversion consistently developed, except after recent anti‐CD20 or venetoclax therapy, correlating with perivaccine B‐cell count. Vaccination appeared to protect from severe COVID‐19 in 11 patients with breakthrough infection.
Maintenance therapy in multiple myeloma: Two is not always better than one
Authors: Offidani Massimo , Morè Sonia , Corvatta Laura
Published: December 2022

In multiple myeloma (MM) long‐term therapy aims to control disease and delay progression for as long as possible. In this issue Jenner et al. failed to demonstrate a benefit of maintenance with lenalidomide plus vorinostat compared with lenalidomide in both transplant eligible (TE) and ineligible (NTE) patients enrolled in the Myeloma XI trial.

Commentary on: Jenner et al. The addition of vorinostat to lenalidomide maintenance for patients with newly diagnosed multiple myeloma of all ages: results from ‘Myeloma XI’, a multicentre, open‐label, randomised, phase III trial. Br J Haematol. 2023;201:276‐288.
Space‐for‐time substitution reveals a hump‐shaped distribution of dung beetles
Authors: Ancco‐Valdivia Fernando Geronimo , Calixto Eduardo Soares , López‐Tejeda Evaristo
Published: December 2022

Unraveling how climate change impacts the diversity and distribution patterns of organisms is a major concern in ecology, especially with climate‐sensitive species, such as dung beetles. Often found in warmer weather conditions, beetles are used as bio‐indicators of environmental conditions. By using an altitudinal gradient as a proxy for climate change (i.e., space‐for‐time substitution), we assessed how changes in climatic variables, such as temperature and precipitation, impact patterns of dung beetle diversity and distribution in the Peruvian Andes. We recorded dung beetle diversity using three different types of baits, feces, carrion, and fruits, distributed in 18 pitfall traps in five different altitudinal sites (from 900 to 2500 m, 400 m apart from each other) in the rainy and dry season. We found that (i) dung beetle richness and abundance were influenced by the climate gradient, (ii) seasonality influenced beetle richness, which was high in the wet season, but did not influence abundance, (iii) dung beetle richness and abundance fit to a hump‐shaped distribution pattern along the altitudinal gradient, and (iv) species richness is the beta‐diversity component that best describes the composition of dung beetle species along the altitudinal gradient. Our data show that the distribution and diversity of dung beetles are different at larger scales, with different patterns resulting from the response of species to both abiotic and biotic factors.

Abstract in Spanish is available with online material.
Parents, teens and screens during COVID‐19 containment: An exploratory study
Authors: Surís Joan‐Carles , Berchtold André , Barrense‐Dias Yara
Published: December 2022

Objective

One of the main concerns of parents is the amount of screen time of their teenagers, and most of them try to set rules about it. The objective of this exploratory study was to compare whether parents' rules changed during confinement and whether these changes were successful.

Methods

We studied a group of parents (N = 47) of 13‐year‐olds in Switzerland surveyed before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Results

Most parents (83%) indicated that screen‐time rules for their teens had changed during containment, mainly to be less strict. Although only a minority of parents were successful in defining screen‐time spaces or schedules for their teenagers, almost three out of four were successful when they encouraged non‐screen‐based activities.

Conclusions

This exploratory study reveals that, during containment, parents decided to be less strict with their teens' screen‐time use even though it remained their main worry. However, it also suggests that when activities non‐involving screens are proposed, teens are likely to participate. These results seem to indicate that reducing screen time is not a matter of imposing restrictions but, rather, of proposing alternatives. Finally, further research is warranted to assess whether these changes in screen‐time use are exceptional or here to stay.
Genomic characterization of thymic epithelial tumors reveals critical genes underlying tumorigenesis and poor prognosis
Authors: Tan Sheng , Chen Jili , Wang Zheng , Zhao Xiaokai , Sun Yonghua , Zhu Youcai , Gong Ziying , Zhang Daoyun
Published: December 2022

Thymic epithelial tumors (TETs) are rare mediastinal tumors whose tumorigenesis mechanism is poorly understood. Characterization of molecular alterations in TETs may contribute to a better understanding of tumorigenesis and prognosis. Hybrid capture‐based next‐generation sequencing was performed on tumor tissues from 47 TETs (39 thymomas and 8 thymic carcinomas) to detect mutations in 315 tumor‐associated genes. In total, 178 nonsynonymous mutations were identified, with a median of 3.79 per tumor in 47 TETs. Higher tumor mutation burden (TMB) level was more common in older TET patients, and significantly associated with the more advanced pathological type, especially in thymic carcinomas (TC) patients. The gene mutation profiles of B1‐3, A/AB, and TC patients varied greatly. In the actionable mutations analysis, we found 32 actionable mutations in 24 genes. Among them, NFKBIA and TP53 mutations was the most frequently, which were only identified in TCs. Additionally, TCGA database analysis found that the expression of NFKBIA mRNA in the TCs were significantly higher than thymomas. TET patients with high NFKBIA expression had shorter overall survival compared with patients with low/medium NFKBIA expression, thus providing insights to consider NFKBIA as a potential prognosis biomarker and therapeutic target in TETs.
Lung transplantation from donation after circulatory death, evolution, and current status in the United States
Authors: Furukawa Masashi , Noda Kentaro , Chan Ernest G. , Ryan John P. , Coster Jenalee N. , Sanchez Pablo G.
Published: December 2022

Background

The number of lung transplants from donors after circulatory death has increased over the last decade. This study aimed to describe the evolution and outcomes following lung transplantation donation after circulatory death (DCD) and report the practices and outcomes of ex vivo lung perfusion (EVLP) in this donor population.

Methods

This was a retrospective study using a prospectively collected national registry. The United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database was queried to identify adult patients who underwent lung transplantation between May 1, 2005, and December 31, 2021. Kaplan–Meier analysis and Weibull regression were used to compare survival in four cohorts (donation after brain death [DBD] with or without EVLP, and DCD with or without EVLP). The primary outcome of interest was patient survival.

Results

Of the 21 356 recipients who underwent lung transplantation, 20 380 (95.4%) were from brain death donors and 976 (4.6%) from donors after circulatory death. Kaplan–Meier analysis showed no difference in the survival time between the two groups. In a multivariable analysis that controlled for baseline differences in donor and recipient characteristics, recipients who received lungs from cardiac death donors after EVLP had 28% shorter survival time relative to donor lungs after brain death without EVLP (hazard ratio [HR] 1.53, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.10–2.15, p = .01).

Conclusions

The early survival differences observed after lung transplants from donors after circulatory death in lungs evaluated with EVLP deserves further investigation.
Disrupting Museum Authority: Art, Voice and the Museum
Authors: Lawrenson Anna , O'Reilly Chiara
Published: December 2022

Museums are wrestling with their past and exhibitions provide important spaces to create new dialogues and include previously excluded voices. This review examines two exhibitions from 2021 at museums in Sydney, Australia – Unsettled at the Australian Museum and Eucalyptusdom at the nearby Museum of Applied Arts and Sciences – as these exhibits are significant markers of fundamental changes in Australian museum practice. It examines how these museums sought to disrupt the colonial bias in their historical collections and tell new stories of settlement and place. It considers the way that voice, particularly the voice of Indigenous communities and creative practitioners helped to challenge how history could be told and the authority of the museums.
Injection drug use in an affluent beachside community in Sydney: An exploratory qualitative study
Authors: Dertadian George Christopher , Caruana Theresa , Maher Lisa
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Social research on injection drug use has focussed on marginalised groups and communities, leaving a large gap in the field's understanding of how it is experienced in other settings, including in relatively affluent communities.

Methods

This research is based on fieldwork and 18 in‐depth qualitative interviews conducted in suburban beach‐side communities in Sydney collectively known as the Northern Beaches.

Results

Participants did not experience stigmatisation by local health services as the norm or as a deterrent to access. Drug acquisition on the Northern Beaches occurred among closed networks of friends and acquaintances, and injecting use rarely occurred in public settings. Police contact was minimal, resulting in lower levels of criminalisation.

Discussion and Conclusions

Unlike many of the participants featured in the literature, our study participants grew up in middle and upper middle‐class households, typically experiencing comfortable childhoods with little to no exposure to injection drug use. In this setting injection drug use operates covertly within the normal rhythms of middle‐class life, hidden in amongst the bustle of cafés and shopping centres, and through the friendliness of neighbourhood driveway and doorstep interactions. Drug use is described as common in the area, with injecting behaviours stigmatised in ways that set it against the ‘good’ families and neighbourhoods of this beach‐side enclave. In contrast to much of the Australian qualitative literature which frames injection drug use as a means of psychological relief or a subcultural norm, our participants described injecting as motivated by the desire to enhance pleasure and social connection.
Pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of the novel basal insulin Fc (insulin efsitora alfa), an insulin fusion protein in development for once‐weekly dosing for the treatment of patients with diabetes
Authors: Heise Tim , Chien Jenny , Beals John M. , Benson Charles , Klein Oliver , Moyers Julie S. , Haupt Axel , Pratt Edward John
Published: December 2022

Aim

To assess the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetics (PK) and pharmacodynamics (PD) of basal insulin Fc (BIF; LY3209590), a fusion protein combining a novel single‐chain insulin variant together with human IgG2 Fc domain, following single and multiple once‐weekly BIF administration.

Materials and Methods

The single ascending dose, 15‐day study assessed four BIF doses (5‐35 mg) in healthy participants and people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). In the 6‐week multiple ascending dose study, people with T2D, previously treated with basal insulin, received insulin glargine daily or a one‐time loading dose of BIF followed by 5 weeks of once‐weekly dosing (1‐10 mg). Safety, tolerability and PK and glucose PD were examined.

Results

Mean ages of people with T2D (N = 57) and healthy participants (N = 16) in the single‐dose study were 58.4 and 35.8 years, respectively; mean body mass index values were 29.5 and 26.1 kg/m2. BIF had a PK half‐life of approximately 17 days, which led to a sustained, dose‐dependent decrease in fasting blood glucose for 5 days or longer. No severe hypoglycaemia was observed. The 6‐week ascending dose study included 33 people with T2D aged 40‐69 years. BIF showed a low peak‐to‐trough ratio of 1.14 after the last dose at week 6 (steady state). Over 6 weeks, BIF seven‐point glucose profiles remained constant and were similar to insulin glargine. Rates and duration of BIF hypoglycaemic events were similar to insulin glargine.

Conclusions

BIF was well tolerated and the PK/PD profile enabled once‐weekly dosing with minimal variation in exposure in a treatment interval of 1 week. The findings suggest BIF is suitable for further development as a weekly basal insulin in people with diabetes.
More than just charts and graphs: What to teach in a data visualization course
Authors: Camm Jeffrey D. , McCray Gordon E. , Roehm Michelle L.
Published: December 2022

Based on our experience developing and delivering a highly successful data visualization course within a Master of Science in Business Analytics program, we present a taxonomy for data visualization courses and recommend content and pedagogical features for each type of data visualization course therein. We also discuss the interdependence between data visualization and business communication as a critical consideration in course design.
Class II composite restoration technique teaching: A randomised controlled crossover laboratory‐based trial involving a novel ringless sectional matrix technique
Authors: Bailey Oliver , Shand Bonnie , Ellis Ian
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Objectives were to assess how different techniques (including a novel ringless sectional matrix approach) affect students' restorative outcomes, and their preferences for and preparedness to clinically implement new techniques with the aim of introducing appropriate techniques to the undergraduate curriculum.

Materials and Methods

Students performed two class II composite restorations in plastic teeth using two sectional matrix techniques (separating ring vs. without [ringless]), and two composite restorative techniques (incremental vs. injection‐moulded bulk‐fill). Restorations were assessed on multiple parameters which were combined to rate them as “good” or not. Online surveys assessed students' preferences for and preparedness to clinically implement new techniques.

Results

Contact area concavity (OR = 106, p < .001) and cervical marginal overhang (OR = 7.4, p < .001) were much more likely with the separating ring compared to the ringless sectional matrix technique. “Good” restorations were 29.5 times more likely when using ringless compared to separating ring techniques and 3.3 times more likely when using the injection‐moulding bulk‐fill compared to layered composite technique. A majority of students preferred the ringless to separating ring sectional matrix technique and the injection‐moulding bulk‐fill to layered composite technique. Large majorities felt prepared to implement the new techniques clinically with no or minimal guidance.

Conclusions

A classic sectional matrix technique with separating ring resulted in a much greater occurrence of contact area concavity and cervical marginal overhang than a novel ringless approach. When allied with student preferences and clinical preparedness, inclusion of the novel ringless approach in the undergraduate curriculum can be supported alongside bulk‐fill injection‐moulding techniques.
Spatio‐temporal dynamics of oscillatory brain activity during the observation of actions and interactions between point‐light agents
Authors: Friedrich Elisabeth V. C. , Zillekens Imme C. , Biel Anna Lena , O'Leary Dariusz , Singer Johannes , Seegenschmiedt Eva Victoria , Sauseng Paul , Schilbach Leonhard
Published: December 2022

Predicting actions from non‐verbal cues and using them to optimise one's response behaviour (i.e. interpersonal predictive coding) is essential in everyday social interactions. We aimed to investigate the neural correlates of different cognitive processes evolving over time during interpersonal predictive coding. Thirty‐nine participants watched two agents depicted by moving point‐light stimuli while an electroencephalogram (EEG) was recorded. One well‐recognizable agent performed either a ‘communicative’ or an ‘individual’ action. The second agent either was blended into a cluster of noise dots (i.e. present) or was entirely replaced by noise dots (i.e. absent), which participants had to differentiate. EEG amplitude and coherence analyses for theta, alpha and beta frequency bands revealed a dynamic pattern unfolding over time: Watching communicative actions was associated with enhanced coupling within medial anterior regions involved in social and mentalising processes and with dorsolateral prefrontal activation indicating a higher deployment of cognitive resources. Trying to detect the agent in the cluster of noise dots without having seen communicative cues was related to enhanced coupling in posterior regions for social perception and visual processing. Observing an expected outcome was modulated by motor system activation. Finally, when the agent was detected correctly, activation in posterior areas for visual processing of socially relevant features was increased. Taken together, our results demonstrate that it is crucial to consider the temporal dynamics of social interactions and of their neural correlates to better understand interpersonal predictive coding. This could lead to optimised treatment approaches for individuals with problems in social interactions.
Tool use and tooling in ravens (Corvus corax): A review and novel observations
Authors: Jacobs Ivo , Osvath Mathias
Published: December 2022

Corvids are known for their cognitive flexibility, and many have innovated various forms of tool use. Here, we review tool use and tooling in common ravens (Corvus corax) and describe additional observations. In total, they have used tools in 10 submodes and 11 modes. Of these modes, four were observed in captivity only, four in the wild only and three in both contexts. Five of these modes constitute tooling. When they manufactured tools, it was through detachment or subtraction. The purpose of most tool use was apparent, except when they used containers to transport small amounts of food that could be held in their bill and antelingual pouch (estimated to hold at least 16.2 ml). The small number of tool‐using individuals per mode and the lack of detailed descriptions limit further interpretation and generalizability. Nonetheless, ravens are likely customary tool users in three modes and show the capacity for diverse tool use, which should be examined in dedicated future experiments.
The effect of PPAR isoform (de)activation on the lipid composition in full‐thickness skin models
Authors: Helder Richard W. J. , Rousel Jannik , Boiten Walter A. , Gooris Gerrit S. , Nadaban Andreea , El Ghalbzouri Abdoelwaheb , Bouwstra Joke A.
Published: December 2022

Human skin equivalents (HSEs) are 3D‐cultured human skin models that mimic many aspects of native human skin (NHS). Although HSEs resemble NHS very closely, the barrier located in the stratum corneum (SC) is impaired. This is caused by an altered lipid composition in the SC of HSEs compared with NHS. One of the most pronounced changes in this lipid composition is a high level of monounsaturation. One key enzyme in this change is stearoyl‐CoA desaturase‐1 (SCD1), which catalyses the monounsaturation of lipids. In order to normalize the lipid composition, we aimed to target a group of nuclear receptors that are important regulators in the lipid synthesis. This group of receptors are known as the peroxisome proliferating activating receptors (PPARs). By (de)activating each isoform (PPAR‐α, PPAR‐δ and PPAR‐γ), the PPAR isoforms may have normalizing effects on the lipid composition. In addition, another PPAR‐α agonist Wy14643 was included as this supplement demonstrated normalizing effects in the lipid composition in a more recent study. After PPAR (ant)agonists supplementation, the mRNA of downstream targets, lipid synthesis genes and lipid composition were investigated. The PPAR downstream targets were activated, indicating that the supplements reached the keratinocytes to trigger their effect. However, minimal impact was observed on the lipid composition after PPAR isoform (de) activation. Only the highest concentration Wy14643 resulted in strong, but negative effects on CER composition. Although the novel tested modifications did not result in an improvement, more insight is gained on the nuclear receptors PPARs and their effects on the lipid barrier in full‐thickness skin models.
Macrosystem community change in lake phytoplankton and its implications for diversity and function
Authors: Weigel Benjamin , Kotamäki Niina , Malve Olli , Vuorio Kristiina , Ovaskainen Otso
Published: December 2022

Aim

We use lake phytoplankton community data to quantify the spatio‐temporal and scale‐dependent impacts of eutrophication, land‐use and climate change on species niches and community assembly processes while accounting for species traits and phylogenetic constraints.

Location

Finland.

Time period

1977–2017.

Major taxa

Phytoplankton.

Methods

We use hierarchical modelling of species communities (HMSC) to model metacommunity trajectories at 853 lakes over four decades of environmental change, including a hierarchical spatial structure to account for scale‐dependent processes. Using a “region of common profile” approach, we evaluate compositional changes of species communities and trait profiles and investigate their temporal development.

Results

We demonstrate the emergence of novel and widespread community composition clusters in previously more compositionally homogeneous communities, with cluster‐specific community trait profiles, indicating functional differences. A strong phylogenetic signal of species responses to the environment implies similar responses among closely related taxa. Community cluster‐specific species prevalence indicates lower taxonomic dispersion within the current dominant clusters compared with the historically dominant cluster and an overall higher prevalence of smaller species sizes within communities. Our findings denote profound spatio‐temporal structuring of species co‐occurrence patterns and highlight functional differences of lake phytoplankton communities.

Main conclusions

Diverging community trajectories have led to a nationwide reshuffling of lake phytoplankton communities. At regional and national scales, lakes are not single entities but metacommunity hubs in an interconnected waterscape. The assembly mechanisms of phytoplankton communities are strongly structured by spatio‐temporal dynamics, which have led to novel community types, but only a minor part of this reshuffling could be linked to temporal environmental change.
Agrobacterium‐mediated transformation via establishment of stable tissue culture system inZoysia matrella(L.) Merrill ‘Wakaba’
Authors: Ng Hwan May , Gondo Takahiro , Ushiyama Mari , Cho Shin , Maemura Soko , Hashiguchi Masatsugu , Tanaka Hidenori , Akashi Ryo
Published: December 2022

Zoysia matrella(L.) Merrill is a perennial C4 warm‐season turfgrass grown for landscapes, golf courses, sports fields and recreation parks. To create a new breeding method by genome editing, an efficient genetic transformation system is essential. In this study, we report the efficient protocol ofAgrobacterium‐mediated transformation through the establishment of a stable tissue culture system forZ. matrella‘Wakaba’. The embryogenic callus was induced from shoot apices of nodal segments incubated in Murashige and Skoog (MS) medium containing 2 mg/l 2,4‐dichlorophnoxyacetic acid (2,4‐D), 0.1 mg/l 6‐benzylaminopurine (BAP) and 5 μM CuSO4(MS‐DBC). Repeated subculture of compact high‐quality callus in MS‐DBC medium produced a highly regenerative callus with dense pre‐embryogenic clusters, and it was used as a transformation target.Agrobacteriumstrain EHA105 harboring pANIC8B vector containing the β‐glucuronidase gene (GUS) and hygromycin B phosphotransferase gene was used.Agrobacterium‐infected calli were cocultured for 5 days with 100 μM acetosyringone and then subjected to selection pressure of 50 mg/l hygromycin. This optimized protocol yielded transformation efficiencies of up to 6.6%. Southern blot analysis verified one to three copies of theGUSgene in different independent transgenic plants. All transgenic plants were morphologically normal, and the GUS expressions were stable. Our optimizedin vitroand transgenic system will facilitate the new breeding technology of genome editing in zoysiagrass.
A Mimetic Reading of the Passover
Authors: BDSc Simon Skidmore
Published: December 2022

The use of sacrificial animal blood in the Hebrew Bible has generated much discussion. While various scholars have attempted to explain the significance of these blood rites, each of these attempts has proved problematic. The current paper employs mimetic theory to develop a more robust and plausible model for exploring biblical animal sacrifice. Using the Passover ritual as a model, I develop a model of sacrificial blood rites as pantomimes of mimetic violence. These pantomimes re‐create a violent yet transformative crisis from the community's collective memory. Such rituals allow the community to enter into and re‐experience the cleansing violence of a mimetic crisis, albeit in a more controlled manner. Through these pantomimes, the community attempts to appease the primitive sacred's blood lust and re‐discover the divine blessing secured through the original crisis. This model may prove helpful when applied to more opaque examples of biblical blood manipulation.
Trends in three major histological subtypes of cutaneous melanoma in the Netherlands between 1989 and 2016
Authors: van Niekerk Catharina C. , Otten J. Hans D. M. , van Rossum Michelle M. , van den Reek Juul M. P. A. , Brummelkamp Erik , Mol Martijn , Groenewoud J. Hans M. M. , Verbeek André L. M.
Published: December 2022

Background

Time trend analysis of cutaneous melanoma (CM) mortality in fair skin populations shows both a gradual decrease and/or an increase. To explain these differences, we analyzed long‐term time trends in the incidence of the most common histological subtypes of CM: superficial spreading melanoma (SSM), lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM), and nodular melanoma (NM).

Methods

Using data from the Netherlands Cancer Registry and Statistics Netherlands, the number and rates of cases diagnosed with SSM, LLM, and NM from 1989 to 2016 were analyzed by age, calendar period, and birth cohort of people born in successive periods from 1925 to 1973.

Results

Primary CM was diagnosed in 52,000 men and 66,588 women in the study period. The annual age‐standardized incidence rate increased three‐fold from 14 to 42 per 100,000 person‐years. The most common subtype was SSM (50%), followed by LMM (23%) and NM (14%). Age‐specific subtype rates showed an upward trend over time for both men and women. Younger birth cohorts had higher rates of SSM and LMM diagnosis than older birth cohorts. This birth cohort pattern was not observed for NM.

Conclusions

We observed a strong increase in the melanoma epidemic curves in the light‐skinned Dutch population over the last three decades. This increase is explained by younger generations having higher rates of SSM and LMM than older generations.
Rectovaginal Constriction in Jersey Cattle: Ultrastructural Features
Authors: Troykr D. , Woollen N. E. , Leipold H.W.
Published: December 2022

Tissue sections taken from layers involved in the inelastic constricting band within the anal canal of Jersey cattle affected with rectovaginal constriction (RVC) were studied with transmission and scanning electron microscopy and compared to the same tissues from normal animals. The affected tissues revealed a tangled meshwork of fine fibers on scanning electron micrographs, and a distinct linger‐print‐like pattern of collagen fibers on transmission electron microscopy. There were also randomly organized, small‐diameter fibers present within RVC tissue.
Ossifikationsvarianten am Gliedmaßenskelett des Hundes: II. Persistierende Ossifikationszonen
Authors: Mayrhofer Elisabeth
Published: December 2022

Ossification Variants of the Limb Skeleton of the Dog. II. Persisting Ossification Zones

Physiological fusion of secondary ossification centres can be disturbed in growing dogs. On radiographs they look like isolated small bone shadows, located at the border of the glenoid cavity, acetabulum and olecranon. They are not to be mixed up with traumatic or degenerative changes. Diagnosis depends on the age of the dog.
Ovarian Serotonin During Oocyte Development and Ovulation in the Domestic Hen (Gallus Domesticus)*
Authors: Paczoska‐Eliasiewicz H. , Rząsa J.
Published: December 2022

Tire results indicate that serotonin concentration in the follicle wall decreases as the follicle grows and maturates. Moreover, a high negative correlation (r = ‐0.9297) between follicle diameter and serotonin concentration was found. In the post‐ovulatory follicle, 2h after ovulation, the serotonin concentration (210.2 ng/g wet wt.) was significantly lower than in the preovulatory follicle (524.7 ng/g) 0.5 h before ovulation. It seems likely that serotonin plays a role in follicular maturation and ovulation in the domestic hen.
Biosimilars of anti‐vascular endothelial growth factors for ophthalmic disease – Clinical trial status 2022
Authors: McFadyen James , Votruba Marcela , Muenzberg Michael , Cornes Paul
Published: December 2022

Purpose: Diabetic Macular Œdema (DME) and Age‐related Macular Degeneration (nAMD) are the leading causes of vision loss in developed nations. Anti‐Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (aVEGF) has revolutionized the treatment of both conditions, but access is limited by costs. Biosimilars of aVEGF can cut costs, but prescriber concerns over the lack of clinical data can slow uptake. This paper reports all biosimilar aVEGF in development for Europe and the USA, and pools the results of clinical confirmatory trials to provide statistically greater reassurance in the similarity of outcomes.

Methods: Biosimilars in the clinical development phase were identified from US and EU trial registries.

Results: There are 13 biosimilars of ranibizumab and aflibercept in final clinical comparative trial stage of development in Europe and the USA, recruiting 6126 patients. Five studies of intravitreal bevacizumab biosimilars are recruiting 772 patients. Equivalence outcomes are typically based on Best‐Corrected Visual Acuity (BCVA) with 90% confidence limits of −3 to +3 letters between reference and biosimilar medicines. Completed trials to date with 1166 participants analysed together show BCVA outcomes of ≤1 letter between Originator Reference Products and Biosimilars; for serious adverse events the risk ratio is 1.17, with 95% confidence intervals of 0.85–1.63, p = 0.32.

Conclusions: Biosimilars of aVEGF are expected soon. There are likely sufficient brands expected to create meaningful price competition. To date, the EU/US regulatory pathway is delivering biosimilars with close equivalence of safety and efficacy outcomes.
Capsular bag distension syndrome after uneventful DMEK for Fuchs corneal endothelial dystrophy
Authors: Weber Adrian , Reinhold Aja , Massa Horace , Gugleta Konstantin , Gatzioufas Zisis
Published: December 2022

Purpose: Capsular bag distension syndrome or capsular block syndrome is a rare complication of cataract surgery characterized by accumulation of fluid between the intraocular lens and the posterior lens capsule, leading to visual deterioration. A small continuous curvilinear capsulorhexis, residual cortical lens material, as well as residual viscoelastic material behind the intraocular lens are associated with increased risk of fluid entrapment. Capsular bag syndrome usually occurs in the early postoperative period, but it has also been described as late as 14 years after cataract surgery. Nd‐YAG laser posterior capsulotomy is the treatment of choice in most cases, facilitating the drainage of the fluid in the vitreous cavity. Late‐onset capsular block syndrome is often associated with Propionibacterium acnes, requiring surgical management.

Methods: Hereby we report a case of a 72‐year‐old female patient with Fuchs corneal endothelial dystrophy, who developed a capsular block syndrome after an uneventful endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK).

Results: In the early postoperative period after the DMEK, we observed the development of capsular block syndrome OS. The patient was subjected to bilateral cataract surgery 6 years ago. After intensive follow‐up examination for excluding Propionibacterium acnes‐related endophthalmitis, we proceeded with Nd‐YAG capsulotomy, which resulted in drainage of the fluid in the vitreous cavity and immediate visual recovery.

Conclusions: To our knowledge this is the first report of capsular bag syndrome after DMEK and therefore anterior segment surgeons should be aware of this rare complication.
Menopausal hormone therapy and the risk of cataract in postmenopausal women in South Korea
Authors: Sim Haeun , Jeong Jeonga , Kang Min Ji , Hwang Jehyung
Published: December 2022

Purpose: Postmenopausal women have a higher prevalence of cataract than similar‐aged men. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of menopausal hormone therapy on lens opacity in postmenopausal women.

Methods: This retrospective cohort study analysed population‐based health insurance data in South Korea collected from 2002 to 2019. To determine the risk factors associated with cataract, postmenopausal women (N = 2 506 271) were grouped according to postmenopausal hormone therapy use. The treatment group was further divided into the following subgroups: tibolone, combined oestrogen plus progestin by manufacturer, oral oestrogen, combined oestrogen plus progestin by physician, and topical oestrogen groups. The main outcome measure was the prevalence of cataract.

Results: The control group comprised 463 151 postmenopausal women who had never used menopausal hormone therapy after menopause, while the treatment group included 228 033 postmenopausal women who had used menopausal hormone therapy continuously for at least 6 months. The treatment group had a higher incidence of cataract than the control group based on Cox proportional hazards ratio analysis. Low socioeconomic status and high parity were identified as risk factors for cataract, and reduced risk of cataract was associated with living in rural areas and drinking.

Conclusions: Women undergoing postmenopausal hormone therapy, including tibolone, had a higher incidence of cataract than those who were not. Old age, low socioeconomic status, and high parity were risk factors for cataract. Our findings may help physicians identify postmenopausal women at a greater risk of developing cataract.

References

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2. Spinelli MG. Depression and hormone therapy. Clin Obstet Gynecol 47, 428–436 (2004).

3. Freedman RR. Physiology of hot flashes. Am J Hum Biol 13, 453–464 (2001).

4. Abraham S, Perz J, Clarkson R & Llewellyn‐Jones D. Australian women's perceptions of hormone replacement therapy over 10 years. Maturitas 21, 91–95 (1995).
Successful DWEK in persistent corneal edema secondary to subacute unexplained endotheliitis: 6‐month follow‐up
Authors: Cisneros‐Arias Pablo , El Bakkali Ismael Bakkali , Rivasés Guillermo P. , Moscarda Eva Núñez , de Rivas Marta Orejudo , Suñer Marta , Clavería Julia Aramburu , Fernandez Miguel Castillo , Pascual Paula Casas , Puyuelo Javier Ascaso , Simon Cristina Calvo , Remacha Carla Sánchez
Published: December 2022

Purpose: To present a case of persistent corneal edema after endothelial disease of unknown cause and with a severe decrease in the endothelial count and clinical improvement after DWEK (descemetorhexis without endothelial keratoplasty).

Methods: A 61‐year‐old immunocompetent male patient, with no relevant ophthalmological or systemic history, who after multiple episodes of subacute endotheliitis with retrokeratic precipitates and diffuse iridian atrophy in his right eye, showed central persistent corneal edema, secondary to a marked decrease in endothelial count and severe decrease in best‐corrected visual acuity (0.2) after several months of inflammatory stability.

Results: During flare‐ups of inflammation, treatment with corticosteroids, topical ganciclovir and oral acyclovir was prescribed, with a good clinical response. Aqueous humour samples were taken during the outbreaks without yielding results for herpesviruses. The endothelial count remained low at the central level several months later, although the peripheral count was good. The fellow eye showed a normal count. It was decided to perform DWEK in the endothelial zone of retrokeratic precipitates as a diagnostic measure. The analyses of the endothelial sample FOR THE HERPESVIRIDAE FAMILY do not show results, however, a progressive improvement in corneal edema and visual acuity was observed from the first month after DWEK. He is currently stable, with mild paracentral edema and a best‐corrected visual acuity of 0.7.

Conclusions: DWEK is reserved for cases of slightly advanced endothelial dystrophy, in which the central endothelial denudation causes a centripetal migration of the peripheral endothelial reserve. In this case, the clinical findings suggest a viral aetiology of the endothelial loss, therefore, DWEK was considered as a diagnostic procedure, to obtain samples for PCR and as a first step prior to DMEK. The improvement after DWEK in the area of retrokeratic precipitates without the need for a subsequent transplant suggests localized endothelial involvement in cases of endothelial loss associated with localized inflammatory precipitates.