bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Clinical profiles and care of transgender children and adolescents who receive specialized consultations: do individuals who are assigned female at birth differ?
Authors: Lagrange Chystelle , Verger Nina , Brunelle Julie , Poirier Fanny , Pellerin Hugues , Mendes Nicolas , Mamou Gregor , Forno Nifoular , Martinerie Laetitia , Cohen David , Condat Agnès
Published: November 2024

Context

Clinical data on transgender children and adolescents are scarce, and sample sizes often do not allow for comparisons according to sex assigned at birth. Besides, most gender identity clinics have pointed to a recent switch in favor of an increase in the number of adolescents assigned females at birth (AFAB) over assigned males at birth (AMAB).

Method

We collected data on sociodemographic characteristics, and psychiatric and social vulnerabilities according to sex assigned at birth for all youths who were treated at the French largest gender identity clinic. In addition, management modalities for gender transition were discussed in multidisciplinary concertation meetings.

Results

We collected data from 239 youths [162(68%) AFAB, 74(32%) AMAB, and 3(1%) intersex; mean age = 14.5(± 3.16) years]. The distribution of age at referral was better explained by two clusters (C1: N = 61, mean age = 11.3 years, with more AMAB; C2: N = 175, mean age = 15.9 years with more AFAB). 215(91%) youths had gender incongruence, with 32% reporting it before puberty. School drop-out, suicidality, depression, and anxiety were common and occurred significantly more often in the AFAB group. 178(74%) youths experienced social transition within the family, and 144(61%) at school [mean age = 15.13(± 2.06) years]. The social transition was more frequent in the AFAB group. Twenty-six (11%) youths received puberty blockers [mean age = 13.87(± 2.31) years], and 105(44%) received gender-affirming hormones [mean age = 16.87(± 1.4) years]. AMABs were more likely to take puberty blockers, and there was no difference in the proportion of AMAB and AFAB taking gender-affirming hormones. Surgical requests (mainly torsoplasty) were very rare.

Conclusion

Age at referral should be considered when exploring gender incongruence. During adolescence, we found that gender incongruence has substantial social and psychological effects, particularly on AFAB youths, possibly explaining their higher referral rates to specialized centers, as in other specialized clinics around the world.
Therapeutic effects of probiotics on symptoms of depression in children and adolescents: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chen Chia-Min , Liang Shun-Chin , Sun Cheuk-Kwan , Cheng Yu-Shian , Tang Yen-Hsiang , Liu Cheng , Hung Kuo-Chuan
Published: November 2024

This meta-analysis aimed at investigating the therapeutic effects of probiotics against the symptoms of depression in children and adolescents as well as to identify the potential confounders. Following PRISMA guidelines, major databases were searched for randomized controlled trials focusing on effects of probiotics against the symptoms of depression in children and adolescents to analyze the effect size (ES) for primary outcomes (i.e., improvement in depressive symptoms) expressed as standardized mean difference (SMD) and odds ratios (ORs) for continuous and categorical variables, respectively, with 95% confidence interval (CI). Meta-analysis of five studies (692 participants, mean age = 7.33 years, treatment duration 8–104 weeks) demonstrated no significant improvement in depressive symptoms in subjects receiving probiotics (SMD = 0.04, 95% CI: -0.33 to 0.41, p = 0.84, five studies, 692 participants). Subgroup analysis also showed no significant improvement associated with probiotic use relative to controls in the subgroup of studies focusing on individuals diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders (SMD = -0.11, 95% CI: -0.73 to 0.51, p = 0.72, three studies, 452 participants) and that recruiting the general population (SMD = 0.24, 95% CI: -0.43 to 0.91, p = 0.48, two studies, 240 participants). However, high levels of heterogeneity were found in both our primary results (I2 = 77%, p = 0.001) and subgroup analyses for those with neurodevelopmental disorders (I2 = 84%, p = 0.002) and the general population (I2 = 79%, p = 0.03). The results did not support the use of probiotics for relieving depressive symptoms compared with controls in children and adolescents diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders or in the general population. Nevertheless, given the high level of heterogeneity across the included trials and a lack of studies focusing on those with diagnoses of anxiety or depression in the current meta-analysis, further large-scale clinical investigations are required to elucidate the therapeutic potential of probiotics against depressive symptoms in these populations, especially in those diagnosed with neurodevelopmental disorders or depression.
Application of nucleophilic substitution reaction for sensitive determination of heptaminol hydrochloride in pharmaceuticals
Authors: Abdelgaleel Mahmoud , Nagi Dalia M. , Oraby Mohamed , Derayea Sayed M. , Khashaba Pakinaz Y.
Published: November 2024

A straightforward and sensitive spectrofluorimetric approach was established for the determination of heptaminol hydrochloride (HTM-HCl) based on the derivatization of the drug through its reaction with 5-dimethylaminonaphthalene-1-sulfonyl chloride (Dansyl chloride). The reagent underwent a nucleophilic substitution of its chlorine atom with HTM to give N-(5-dimethylaminonaphthalene-1-sulfonyl)-6-amino-2-methylheptan-2-ol. The highly luminescent derivative was extracted using methylene chloride and subjected to analysis at an excitation wavelength of 345 nm and an emission wavelength of 490 nm. The chemical reaction occurred within an aqueous environment buffered with a 0.1 M borate buffer solution adjusted to pH 10.5. Experimental findings indicate that the proposed method displays sensitivity and linearity across a concentration range from 0.03 to 2 µg mL− 1. The method achieves lower detection and quantification limits of 0.016 and 0.048 µg mL− 1, respectively. The analytical validation of this method followed the guidelines outlined by the International Council of Harmonization (ICH). This approach was applied effectively for quantifying the medication in both tablet and oral drops formulations available on the market, demonstrating excellent recovery of 98.95 ± 0.45 for tablets and 99.37 ± 0.24 for oral drops with no interference from excipients.
Impact of probiotics-derived extracellular vesicles on livestock gut barrier function
Authors: Zhang Yuhan , Song Mengzhen , Fan Jinping , Guo Xuming , Tao Shiyu
Published: November 2024

Probiotic extracellular vesicles (pEVs) are biologically active nanoparticle structures that can regulate the intestinal tract through direct or indirect mechanisms. They enhance the intestinal barrier function in livestock and poultry and help alleviate intestinal diseases. The specific effects of pEVs depend on their internal functional components, including nucleic acids, proteins, lipids, and other substances. This paper presents a narrative review of the impact of pEVs on the intestinal barrier across various segments of the intestinal tract, exploring their mechanisms of action while highlighting the limitations of current research. Investigating the mechanisms through which probiotics operate via pEVs could deepen our understanding and provide a theoretical foundation for their application in livestock production.
Chain extension-mediated colorimetric and sensitive detection of osteosarcoma-related miRNA based on CHA-cooperated self-priming
Authors: Liu Wen , Yang Yunfei , Xiao Gongyi , Tang Chun , Deng Zhongliang
Published: November 2024

The accurate and dynamic monitoring of osteosarcoma, one of the most prevalent cancers, has a substantial impact on the quality of life of numerous individuals. This study proposes a sample, sensitive, and portable approach to miRNA detection that integrates a catalytic hairpin assembly (CHA) circuit with self-priming mediated chain extension. This method employs CHA as a protein enzyme-free isothermal amplification technique to amplify miRNA signals and induce self-priming through a specially designed hairpin probe. The pyrophosphate sensing probe (pp probe) was employed, which enables dual high-efficiency and stable colorimetric signaling, in contrast to traditional colorimetric modes. This novel system for the colorimetric detection of target miRNA is operated with high sensitivity (LOD of 3.5 fM) and selectivity, with the entire detection procedure requiring approximately 60 min. Additionally, this system could detect miRNA from constructed serum samples with high stability and recovery. This system is unique, extremely simple, and rapid, and it is designed to detect osteosarcoma-related miRNA through a highly sensitive color change. It is likely to be useful in applications that necessitate point-of-care detection of osteosarcoma.
Analysis of ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging characteristics of kaposiform hemangioen dothelioma
Authors: Li Chuang , Shen Zhimeng , Sun Qi , Wu Gang
Published: November 2024

Objective

The present study aims to investigate the ultrasound and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of kaposiform hemangioen dothelioma (KHE).

Methods

A retrospective analysis was conducted on the clinical data of children diagnosed with KHE through postoperative pathology. Patients were divided into two groups: the KHE group and the KHE with Kasabach-Merritt Phenomenon (KMP) group (KMP group). Laboratory indicators, ultrasound, and MRI data were collected and analyzed statistically to summarize the imaging characteristics of the disease.

Results

The levels of platelets and fibrinogen in the KHE group were significantly higher than those in the KMP group, while D-dimer levels, prothrombin time, and activated partial thromboplastin time were lower (P < 0.05). Ultrasound characteristics comparison revealed that lesions extending to the fat layer (42.47% vs. 54.24%) and invading the muscle layer (38.36% vs. 69.49%) were less common in the KHE group compared to the KMP group, with the lesion diameter being smaller in the KHE group (P < 0.05). The Adler grading predominantly showed Grade II (45.21%) in the KHE group, whereas Grade III (93.22%) was more prevalent in the KMP group (P < 0.05). MRI analysis indicated that the incidence of lesions invading the muscle layer and the presence of flow voids were lower in the KHE group compared to the KMP group (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

KHE patients with KMP exhibit lesions that are more prone to extending into the fat layer and invading the muscle layer, with larger diameters and abundant blood flow. Additionally, the MRI images of the lesions may exhibit flow voids.
Anatomical study of pterygoid implants: artery and nerve passage through bone dehiscence of the greater palatine canal
Authors: Taniguchi Shuichiro , Yamamoto Masahito , Tanaka Tomohito , Yang Tianyi , Watanabe Genji , Sugiyama Yuki , Takagi Takahiro , Murakami Gen , Hayashi Shogo , Abe Shinichi
Published: November 2024

Purpose

Pterygoid implants are an alternative approach to avoid sinus-lifting or other grafting procedures. During pterygoid implant placement, dental surgeons risk damaging the greater palatine canal (GPC). However, they do not have sufficient reasons to avoid GPC injury. This study performed a detailed morphological analysis of the GPC to determine susceptibility to damage during pterygoid implant surgery.

Methods

To understand the detailed morphology of the GPC, gross anatomical analysis, histological analysis, and bone morphometry via micro-computed tomography were performed.

Results

We found that the medial wall of the GPC communicated with the nasal cavity through the bone dehiscence. The dehiscence appeared near the inferior nasal concha in 72.4% of the cadavers. The nerve and artery passed from the GPC to the nasal mucous membrane through the dehiscence. Given that the greater palatine nerve passed medial to the descending palatine artery in the GPC, the descending palatine artery is damaged first rather than the greater palatine nerve during pterygoid implant surgery.

Conclusions

Dental surgeons who penetrate the GPC using an implant body may extend the bleeding to the nasal mucosa, which seems to spread the inflammation to the nasal cavity.
Enhancing Cancer Supportive Care: Integrating Psychosocial Support, Nutrition, and Physical Activity Using Telehealth Solutions
Authors: Bergerot Cristiane Decat , Bergerot Paulo Gustavo , Philip Errol J. , Ferrari Renata , Peixoto Rafaela Mota , Crane Tracy E. , Schmitz Kathryn H. , Soto-Perez-de-Celis Enrique
Published: November 2024

This review explores current guidelines for integrating psychosocial support, nutrition, and physical activity into cancer care and examines the resources available to deliver comprehensive care effectively and equitably, with a focus on telehealth solutions. A review of current guidelines related to psychosocial support, nutrition, and exercise in oncology published between the years 2020 and 2024 was conducted. Additionally, relevant articles from the authors' personal archives were included. Current guidelines emphasize routine psychosocial distress screening, nutritional assessment, and tailored physical activity interventions for patients with cancer. The National Comprehensive Cancer Network and ASCO highlight the need for regular psychosocial evaluations and the management of common psychiatric disorders. The American Cancer Society and the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics recommend nutritional screening, personalized counseling, and exercise to improve treatment tolerance and overall quality of life. Despite these recommendations, challenges such as resource limitations, time constraints, and financial barriers hinder their implementation. Integrating psychosocial support, medical nutrition therapy, and physical activity into cancer care is essential to enhancing patients' quality of life. Telehealth offers a viable solution to overcome barriers by providing remote access to supportive services, facilitating comprehensive care, and promoting patient engagement. The effectiveness of telehealth in delivering psychosocial, nutritional, and physical activity support highlights its potential to improve patient outcomes and overcome barriers to care. Telehealth technologies hold high potential to optimize cancer care delivery, ensuring personalized support for patients throughout their cancer journey.
Fifteen Years of Non-Hodgkin Lymphoma in an Indonesian National Referral Hospital: Epidemiologic Trends and Diagnostic Challenges
Authors: Harahap Agnes Stephanie , Ham Maria Francisca , Kurniawan Andree , Charles Stefanny , Wijovi Felix , Sukrisman Lugyanti
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

The global burden of lymphoma is substantial because of the increase in its incidence in recent decades. However, disease characteristics vary across different geographical locations. Numerous immunohistochemistry markers and molecular studies are essential to determine lymphoma diagnosis and prognosis. This poses significant challenges in developing countries with limited health care resources. This large-scale study assesses the frequency of non-Hodgkin lymphoma (NHL) in Indonesia over the past 15 years, analyses its clinicopathologic features, and predicts future trends.

METHODS

This retrospective study collected lymphoma patients diagnosed at the Department of Anatomical Pathology Dr. Cipto Mangunkusumo National Central General Hospital, Indonesia, from 2009 until 2023. All lymphoma diagnoses were confirmed by using ancillary tools classified as an enhanced lymphoma panel according to a resource-stratified guideline. We analyzed the clinicopathologic features of each NHL type and further applied the Autoregressive Integrated Moving Average model to predict future incidence trends.

RESULTS

The study consisted of 7,368 NHL patients. Among these, B-cell lymphomas accounted for 90.6%, with diffuse large B-cell lymphoma being the most prevalent subtype (68.8%), followed by follicular lymphoma (8.8%) and marginal zone lymphoma (5.8%). Extranodal natural killer/T-cell lymphoma, nasal type, is the most common T-cell lymphoma found (26.3%). All types of lymphoma were found to be more common in males (57.7%). Extranodal involvement, particularly in the tonsil and upper respiratory tract, was frequently observed. Projection analysis indicates a steady increase in lymphoma patients in the future.

CONCLUSION

This study highlights the distribution and burden of NHL in Indonesia over 15 years. The overall epidemiologic pattern of NHL in this study aligns with the results observed in other Asian countries. The rising incidence of lymphoma requires improved health care infrastructure and prevention strategies.
Assessment of the Clinicopathologic Characteristics and Survival Rates of Colorectal Cancer Among Syrian Refugees and Turkish Population in Gaziantep Province
Authors: Karan Canan , Okten İlker Nihat , Kesen Oğuzhan , Çelikyürek Atalay , Teker Fatih , Yalçın Şuayib
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

Syrian refugees (SRs) have had difficulties in the diagnosis, treatment, and follow-up of chronic diseases, such as cancer, because of the conflict in the region. The cancer diagnosis and treatment process of SR are also a matter of curiosity. We aimed to compare the demographic characteristics and survival outcome data of SRs and Turkish citizens (TCs), and colorectal cancer (CRC) is one of the most common cancer types seen with similar frequency globally.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

A total of 421 patients with CRC were included. Overall survival (OS) was estimated using the Kaplan-Meier method, and the log-rank test was used for comparison. Patient demographic data were compared using the Pearson Chi-square test and independent
t
test.

RESULTS

In total, 421 patients (282 TCs and 139 SRs) were included in this study. The mean age was 52.9 ± 14.3 years for the entire population: 55.3 ± 14.1 years for TCs and 47.9 ± 13.4 years for SRs. Forty (29%) SRs and 60 (21.4%) TCs had de novo metastatic disease (
P
= .08). The median OS in the general population was 57.9 months (95% CI, 40.1 to 75.7), whereas it was 80.9 months (95% CI, 56.5 to 97.2) in TCs and 42.2 months in SRs (95% CI, 27.0 to 57.4;
P
= .006). In the nonmetastatic group, the median OS did not reach (NR) in TCs, and it was 52.6 months (95% CI, 43.7 to 61.5) in SRs (
P
= .02). In the metastatic group, the median OS was 21 months (95% CI, 8.5 to 29.2) in TCs, and it was 18.9 months in SRs (95% CI, 16.3 to 25.7;
P
= .93).

CONCLUSION

The survival rate was lower in the SR group. Since CRC is also common among refugees, developing and implementing methods to improve the welfare of vulnerable populations is necessary.
Updated Survival Follow-Up for Phase Ib Trial of the Histone Deacetylase Inhibitor Abexinostat With Pazopanib in Patients With Solid Tumor Malignancies
Authors: Tsang Erica S. , Aggarwal Rahul R. , Bergsland Emily K. , Calabrese Susan , Rozie Alexandrine , Chaudhuri Sibapriya , Dhawan Mallika S. , Pawlowska Nela , Grabowsky Jennifer , Thomas Scott , Munster Pamela N.
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

Histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibition downregulates hypoxia-inducible factor-1α and modulates multiple metabolomic pathways relevant in cancer. Here we report a potential novel biomarker to predict exceptional responders (>3 years) in patients receiving HDAC and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) inhibition.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

Patients with solid tumor malignancies were enrolled in this phase Ib trial of abexinostat (4/7 ×21 days) and pazopanib (28/28 days), with a dose expansion in renal cell carcinoma (RCC). Plasma was analyzed for metabolomics and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) for VEGF and HDAC2 expression levels.

RESULTS

Fifty-one patients were enrolled: n = 36 patients in dose escalation and n = 15 in dose expansion. After the initial report in 2017, six patients had remained on study: four with RCC and one each with medullary thyroid and thymic neuroendocrine carcinoma. One patient with RCC remains on treatment for >11 years after progression on five systemic therapies. Overall, the median duration of therapy measured 5.6 (1-133) months. The median duration of therapy in exceptional responders measured 44.1 (39.8-133+) months. The median overall survival in patients with high PBMC HDAC2 expression versus low HDAC2 was 32.3 versus 9.2 months (
P
= .004) for all patients and 43.3 versus 25.1 months for patients with RCC (
P
= .09). Exceptional responders had lower kynurenine levels both pre- and post-treatment (
P
= .002,
P
< .001, respectively). HDAC2 and kynurenine expression levels were inversely correlated (
P
= .02).

CONCLUSION

Abexinostat added to pazopanib shows extended tolerability and long-term responses and survival. PBMC HDAC2 levels, the abexinostat target, are relevant predictors of response. In addition, metabolomic assessment points to kynurenine as a predictor for exceptional response to combined VEGF plus HDAC inhibition.
KRASG12D-Mutated Metastatic Colorectal Cancer: Clinical, Molecular, Immunologic, and Prognostic Features of a New Emerging Targeted Alteration
Authors: Moretto Roberto , Rossini Daniele , Murgioni Sabina , Ciracì Paolo , Nasca Vincenzo , Germani Marco Maria , Calegari Maria Alessandra , Vetere Guglielmo , Intini Rossana , Taravella Ada , Studiale Vittorio , Boccaccio Chiara , Passardi Alessandro , Tamburini Emiliano , Zaniboni Alberto , Salvatore Lisa , Pietrantonio Filippo , Lonardi Sara , Masi Gianluca , Cremolini Chiara
Published: November 2024

PURPOSE

KRASG12D mutation (mut) occurs in about 10%-12% of metastatic colorectal cancer (mCRC). Recently, novel KRASG12D inhibitors have been developed and are currently under investigation in phase I/II clinical trials in solid tumors including mCRC. We aimed at performing a comprehensive characterization of clinical, molecular, immunologic, and prognostic features of KRASG12D-mutated mCRC to inform the design and the interpretation of future trials.

METHODS

We performed a pooled analysis of phase III TRIBE and TRIBE2 studies comparing 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, oxaliplatin, and irinotecan (FOLFOXIRI)/bevacizumab (bev) to doublets (5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, and oxaliplatin or 5-fluorouracil, leucovorin, and irinotecan)/bev.

RESULTS

One hundred and thirty-six (16%) of 854 patients with available KRASG12D mutational status were KRASG12D mutated. KRASG12D-mutated patients had more frequently right-sided primary tumor and were less likely to present liver-only metastases with respect to other RAS mutated and all-wild-type (wt) patients. Compared with the BRAFV600E-mutated group, KRASG12D-mutated patients had more frequently left-sided primary tumor, resected primary tumor at the time of diagnosis, and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status 0. KRASG12D-mutated patients had better prognosis than BRAFV600E-mutated and worse prognosis than all wt patients. No prognostic difference was evident between KRASG12D mut and other
RAS
mut patients overall or according to other specific
KRAS
or
NRAS
hotspot mutations. No interaction effect was observed between KRASG12D mut and the benefit provided by FOLFOXIRI/bev compared with doublets/bev.
PIK3CA
mut were reported more frequently among KRASG12D-mutated tumors compared with both other
RAS
mut and all wt.

CONCLUSION

A detail estimation of KRASG12D mut mCRC patients' characteristics and expected outcomes may be useful when planning future studies in this subgroup. The high prevalence of PI3K/PTEN/Akt pathway activating alterations may affect the efficacy of targeted strategies.
Navigated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Diffusion Tensor Imaging Tractography in Insular Glioma Surgery
Authors: Denker Maren , Picht Thomas , Engelhardt Melina , Dengler Nora F. , Vajkoczy Peter , Zdunczyk Anna
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

The surgical resection of insular gliomas is associated with a high rate of postoperative morbidity as they grow close to descending motor fibers and lenticulostriate arteries. It is believed that intraoperative perforator infarctions are the determining factor for patients' postoperative outcome, while the majority of patients with intraoperative ischemic events do not develop postoperative motor deficits. This study aims to evaluate whether navigated transcranial magnetic stimulation (nTMS) and nTMS-based fiber tracking could be valuable for the preoperative assessment of patients with insular gliomas.

METHODS:

Thirty-two patients with insular gliomas were presurgically examined by nTMS. The resting motor threshold and cortical representation areas of legs, hands, and face were identified on both hemispheres. Motor evoked potential positive stimulation points were then used as a region of interest for diffusion tensor imaging tractographies. Somatotopic fiber tracking was performed enabling analyses of the spatial relation between tumor and cortico-spinal tract (CST) as well as the extraction of fiber tract integrity, measured by fractional anisotropy and the apparent diffusion coefficient.

RESULTS:

The performance of nTMS mappings of the motor cortex and reconstruction of descending motor fibers for legs, hands, and facial functioning was successful in all patients. Higher preoperative resting motor threshold ratios and a distance between tumor and CST of <3 mm were associated with a permanent deterioration in motor function (P = .029 and P = .007). Shorter distances between CST and tumorous tissue were correlated with lowered peritumoral fractional anisotropy values, suggesting alterations in fiber tract integrity. Lower interhemispheric peritumoral fractional anisotropy ratios showed an association with new postoperative motor deficits (P = .017).

CONCLUSION:

nTMS-based diffusion tensor imaging tractography enables somatotopic tract visualization and provides a valuable tool for preoperative planning, intraoperative orientation, and individual risk stratification. Thus, it may be beneficial to increase safety in insular glioma resection surgery.
Slc26a2-mediated sulfate metabolism is important in tooth development
Authors: Yoshida Yuka , Inubushi Toshihiro , Yokoyama Mika , Nag Priyanka , Sasaki Jun-ichi , Oka Ayaka , Murotani Tomoya , Kani Renshiro , Shiraishi Yuki , Kurosaka Hiroshi , Takahata Yoshifumi , Nishimura Riko , Imazato Satoshi , Papagerakis Petros , Yamashiro Takashi
Published: November 2024

The sulfate transporter gene SLC26A2 is crucial for skeletal formation, as evidenced by its role in diastrophic dysplasia, a type of skeletal dysplasia in humans. Although SLC26A2-related chondrodysplasia also affects craniofacial and tooth development, its specific role in these processes remains unclear. In this study, we explored the pivotal roles of SLC26A2-mediated sulfate metabolism during tooth development. We found that Slc26a2 was predominantly expressed in dental tissues, including odontoblasts and ameloblasts. Slc26a2 knockout (Slc26a2-KO-Δexon2) mice exhibited distinct craniofacial abnormalities, such as a retrognathic upper jaw, small upper incisors and upper molar hypoplasia. These mice also showed flattened odontoblasts and loss of nuclear polarity in upper incisors and molars, with significant reductions in odontoblast differentiation markers Dspp and Dmp1. Ex vivo and in vitro studies further revealed dentin matrix hypoplasia, tooth root shortening and downregulation of Wnt signaling in Slc26a2-deficient cells. These findings highlight the crucial role of SLC26A2-mediated sulfate metabolism in tooth development and offer insights into the mechanisms underlying dental abnormalities in patients with SLC26A2-related chondrodysplasias.
Associations between Leisure and Work Time Activity Behavior and 24-h Ambulatory Blood Pressure among Aging Workers
Authors: NORHA JOOA , SUORSA KRISTIN , HEINONEN OLLI J. , NIIRANEN TEEMU , KALLIOKOSKI KARI K. , HEINONEN ILKKA H. A. , STENHOLM SARI
Published: November 2024

Purpose

The associations between work time, leisure-time, and non-workday physical activity (PA) and sedentary behavior (SED), and 24-h ambulatory blood pressure (BP) are not well known. Therefore, the aim of this study was to evaluate the associations between domain-specific activity behavior and 24-h BP.

Methods

A hundred fifty-six aging workers (mean age, 62.4 (SD 1.0) yr; body mass index, 26.2 (4.5) kg·m−2; 84% women; 75% nonmanual occupation) from the Finnish Retirement and Aging study were included. Standing, light and moderate-to-vigorous PA, and SED were measured using thigh-worn accelerometers and work time, leisure-time, and non-workdays were distinguished using a diary. Ambulatory 24-h BP was analyzed as mean daytime and nighttime systolic and diastolic BP, and the nocturnal BP dipping percentage was calculated. Associations were examined with linear regression analysis adjusting for age, sex, occupation, work time mode, job strain, body mass index, BP medication, and accelerometer wear time.

Results

Higher work time SED was associated with lower nighttime diastolic BP (B = −0.92; 95% confidence interval (CI), −1.83 to −0.01). In addition, higher work time standing was associated with higher daytime diastolic BP (B = 1.34; 95% CI, 0.03 to 2.65), and higher work time light PA was associated with less diastolic BP dipping (B = −3.57; 95% CI, −6.80 to −0.34). Moderate-to-vigorous PA in any domain was not associated with ambulatory BP.

Conclusions

Higher work time SED was associated with a more favorable diastolic BP, and higher work time PA was associated with more adverse diastolic BP among aging workers. In conclusion, work time, rather than leisure time or non-workday, activity behavior seems to be associated with 24-h ambulatory BP.
Modernizacja Polski. Polityki rządowe w latach 1918-2004
Authors: Musiał Wojciech
Published: November 2024

Modernizacja Polski. Polityki rządowe w latach 1918 – 2004 to pierwsza w polskiej literaturze monograficzna próba uchwycenia procesów modernizacji ostatniego stulecia. Praca składa się z dwóch części. Pierwsza to opis narzędzi metodologicznych i teoretycznych objaśniający fenomen tego procesu społecznego, a także sposoby jego badania. Druga podaje analizie kolejne modernizacyjne skoki w trzech radykalnych i odmiennych co do istoty oraz przebiegu okresach: dwudziestoleciu międzywojennym, Polsce Ludowej, III Rzeczypospolitej. Książka ukazuje, jak kolejne rządy starały się zaprojektować zmiany społeczne, polityczne i ekonomiczne, tak aby doścignąć państwa wysoko rozwinięte. Badania Wojciecha Musiała pozwalają zrozumieć, jakich przekształceń doświadczyło państwo oraz społeczeństwo. Dostarczają czytelnikowi narzędzi służących zrozumieniu współczesnej pozycji i roli kraju w kontekście międzynarodowym. Autor, opierając się na metodzie studium przypadku, szeroko wykorzystał dane statystyczne oraz dokumenty rządowe. Zapewnia czytelnikowi bezpośredni wgląd w działania podejmowane przez wąskie grono ludzi, decydujące o życiu milionów. Każdy poddany analizie okres dziejów Polski rozpoczyna się „bilansem otwarcia”, zapoznającym odbiorcę z zakresem wyzwań i ograniczeń wielkich przemian, a kończący się podsumowaniem, omawiającym efekty stosownych polityk. Autor stawia pod znakiem zapytania możliwość przyspieszonej, wprowadzonej odgórnie przez elity modernizacji i ukazuje rezultaty dotychczas zrealizowanych „skoków ku nowoczesności”.
Totalitaryzm, narracja, tożsamość. Filozofia historii Hannah Arendt
Authors: Moskalewicz Marcin
Published: November 2024

Kluczem do zrozumienia fragmentarycznej myśli Hannah Arendt jest filozofia historii zarówno w znaczeniu spekulatywnym, jak i krytycznym. Odpowiedź Arendt na totalitaryzm – na zwycięstwo fizjologii nad polityką – jest jednocześnie przemyślana i radykalna. Totalitaryzm nie okazuje się wyłącznie systemem sprawowania władzy, lecz stanowi skrajny przypadek opowiadania historii, fałszywy sposób tworzenia narracji, która sięga w głąb indywidualnej tożsamości. Każda opowieść jest narzędziem radzenia sobie z przygodnością świata i siebie samego, które niesie ze sobą potencjalnie katastrofalne skutki. Choć ciągłość jest konieczna dla ukonstytuowania się podmiotu i podjęcia działania politycznego, to interpretacja tego, co minione, może łatwo przerodzić się w retrospektywne proroctwo przedstawiające przeszłość jako obietnicę przyszłości. Tym tropem podąża historiografia naukowa kontynuująca niechlubną tradycję zastępowania działania wytwarzaniem, co prowadzi do błędnego rozumienia władzy i zadań wspólnoty politycznej. Odpowiedź właściwą stanowi opowieść fragmentaryczna ugruntowana w nowej metafizyce dziejów. Przeszłość to wprawdzie sterta gruzów, ale jako taka może jawić się nam w zupełnie nowy sposób – jako przedmiot estetyczny. Książka stanowi kompleksową analizę dorobku Hannah Arendt, interpretowanego w kontekście dzieł myślicieli przynależących z jednej strony do tzw. tradycji kontynentalnej (m.in. Walter Benjamin, Hans-Georg Gadamer, Martin Heidegger, Immanuel Kant, Reinhard Koselleck, Paul Ricoer), z drugiej zaś – do tzw. tradycji analitycznej (m.in. Frank Ankersmit, Arthur Danto, Carl Gustav Hempel, Karl Rajmund Popper, Jerzy Topolski, Hayden White).
Czas i ortodoksja. Hermeneutyka teologii w świetle "Prawdy" i "Metody" Hansa-Georga Gadamera
Authors: Feliga Piotr
Published: November 2024

Teologia już niejednokrotnie składała współczesnej myśli filozoficznej obietnicę poszerzenia horyzontów czy też otwarcia jej na transcendencję. Jednak obietnica ta nie spotkała się – jak dotąd – z przychylnym przyjęciem, gdyż teologia sama nie zdołała przekonać filozofii o swojej racjonalności. Filozofia przestała być bowiem, z jednej strony, wrażliwa na argumentację natury metafizycznej, z drugiej zaś, teologia jest skłonna poddawać się metodologiom nauk szczegółowych, rezygnując przy tym z własnej odrębności. Zarysowana tu hermeneutyka teologii jest w pierwszym rzędzie badaniem teologii jako nauki, próbą uprawomocnienia jej na gruncie jednego z najważniejszych kierunków filozofii współczesnej, mianowicie hermeneutyki filozoficznej. Teologia zostaje tu ujęta w aspekcie immanencji, choć bynajmniej nie zamyka się w jej horyzoncie. Dziejący się świat teologii rozpada się na „kawałki” – miejsca teologiczne – które jednak wchodząc ze sobą w interakcje, uczestniczą w grze teologicznej. Jako pole owej gry zostaje wskazana liturgia, miejsce metodologicznie wyróżnione ze względu na naoczność dokonujących się konsekwencji gry teologicznej. Analiza czerpie z takich źródeł jak teoria miejsc teologicznych Melchiora Cano OP, koncepcja kręgu hermeneutycznego Martina Heideggera oraz projekt hermeneutyki filozoficznej Hansa-Georga Gadamera, ze szczególnym uwzględnieniem roli prze(d)sądów, utożsamianych tutaj z miejscami teologicznymi. Nowość spojrzenia na tradycję katolicką kontekście myśli hermeneutycznej sprawia, że prezentowana książka może trafić nie tylko do teologów i filozofów, ale także do badaczy szeroko rozumianej kultury.
Choice Frictions in Large Assortments
Authors: Natan Olivia R.
Published: November 2024

This paper studies how expanding product assortments on an online food delivery platform increases consumer acquisition but decreases purchase frequency among existing customers.
Temporal Fairness in Learning and Earning: Price Protection Guarantee and Phase Transitions
Authors: Feng Qing , Zhu Ruihao , Jasin Stefanus
Published: November 2024

Temporal Fairness in Data-Driven Dynamic Pricing

Temporal fairness has long been recognized as a major issue in data-driven dynamic pricing. To address this, price protection guarantee has been proposed to mitigate such concern. Under this widely adopted guarantee, a customer who purchases a product can receive a refund from the seller if the seller lowers the price during the price protection period (defined as a certain time window after the purchase). In this paper, we initiate the study of the impact of this guarantee to online learning for data-driven dynamic pricing with initially unknown customer demand. Our results provide a fundamental characterization on the statistical complexity of this problem. In particular, we reveal a surprising phase transition behavior of the optimal regret with respect to the length of the price protection period. Not only that, our findings also offer practical insights in real-world deployment of price protection guarantees in data-driven dynamic pricing. That is, there is no harm to setting a long price protection period under very mild and realistic conditions.
Stochastic Online Fisher Markets: Static Pricing Limits and Adaptive Enhancements
Authors: Jalota Devansh , Ye Yinyu
Published: November 2024

Dynamic Pricing in Fisher Markets Using Revealed Preferences

In many markets, agents arrive online where complete information on user attributes is unavailable because of uncertainty or privacy issues. However, deriving equilibrium prices in Fisher markets, a canonical resource allocation framework, relies on complete knowledge of user attributes and requires a static market where all users are present simultaneously. In “Stochastic Online Fisher Markets: Static Pricing Limits and Adaptive Enhancements,” D. Jalota and Y. Ye address these limitations of classical Fisher markets by studying their online variant where users with privately known utility and budget parameters, drawn i.i.d. from a distribution, arrive sequentially. In this novel market, the authors establish the limitations of static pricing and design dynamic posted-price algorithms with improved guarantees. Their main result is a posted-price algorithm that solely relies on revealed preference (RP) feedback, that is, observations of user consumption, achieving the best-known guarantees for first-order algorithms in the RP setting while providing a regret analysis of a fairness-promoting logarithmic objective, unlike typical nonnegative and bounded efficiency-promoting objectives in online learning.
Análise epidemiológica da sepse comunitária e hospitalar em uma unidade de urgência e emergência
Authors: Bezerra Nayara Kalila dos Santos , Dias Barbara Almeida Soares , Caldart Raquel Voges , Silva Paulo Sérgio da
Published: November 2024

Objetivo: analisar as características epidemiológicas da sepse de origem comunitária e hospitalar em uma unidade de urgência e emergência. Método: estudo transversal, descritivo, de base documental, com abordagem quantitativa, aprovado pelo Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa. Analisados dados de 143 prontuários de pacientes internados entre janeiro de 2020 e dezembro de 2021, por meio de frequências absolutas, relativas, média e dispersão. Resultados: observou-se tempo de internação prolongado à sepse de origem hospitalar (≥7 dias). A infecção pulmonar se destacou como a principal origem da sepse comunitária (68,6%) e os procedimentos invasivos, como o acesso venoso periférico (62,2%), foram os mais utilizados. Conclusão: reforça-se a necessidade de intervenções eficazes e imediatas para reduzir a mortalidade relacionada a essa condição. A compreensão da origem da sepse pode ajudar a implementar medidas de controle de infecção em ambientes hospitalares, guiando decisões clínicas importantes, permitindo o monitoramento mais eficaz da resposta ao tratamento, garantindo a eficácia terapêutica.
Reflections on NHS Wales' escalation process: applying the observe, orient, decide and act loop
Authors: Royce Robert
Published: November 2024

Robert Royce discusses the limitations of the escalation processes implemented within NHS Wales, reflecting on developments since 2022.
Reducing the risks
Authors: Watwood Jacob
Published: November 2024

Jacob Watwood contemplates the ins and outs of gingival recession.
A rising problem
Authors: Silver Philip
Published: November 2024

Philip Silver addresses the perils of smoking.
Investing in safety
Authors: Bryant Jon
Published: November 2024

Jon Bryant reviews the importance of choosing the right steriliser for your practice.
Barriers for confidence
Authors: Black Margaret
Published: November 2024

Margaret Black discusses battling dental anxiety.
The dos and don'ts
Authors: Nixon Jenny
Published: November 2024

Jenny Nixon reviews how to get the most from lifelong learning.

Aim

Readers will gain an understanding of different learning styles and how to improve professional and personal development.

Objectives

To educate readers about CPD activities considered suitable to maintain and build skills and knowledge in dental infection control. To provide an understanding of the effectiveness of blended learning as a basis for workplace learning programmes.
Smiles all round
Authors: Scott Emma
Published: November 2024

Emma Scott announces an exciting new development for her charity.
Potential of non-Western medicines in chemoradiotherapy for cervical cancer
Authors: Ono Takashi , Koto Masashi
Published: November 2024

This editorial explores the potential integration of non-Western medicine into radiotherapy for cervical cancer. While radiotherapy remains a radical treatment for cervical cancer, its associated toxicity and decline in quality of life can significantly impact patients’ lives. Currently, most treatments are supportive, with no specific treatment options available in Western medicine. Non-Western medicine, often less toxic and easier to administer, has shown promising results when used alongside radiotherapy for cervical cancer. Despite these potential benefits, challenges such as limited evidence and restricted application areas persist. While non-Western medicines may offer potential improvements in chemoradiotherapy outcomes for cervical cancer, further research is necessary to substantiate these benefits.
Is it possible to foot reflexology for infants with sensorineural hearing loss?
Authors: Ai Min , Zhang Hang-Hang , Feng Jun-Bang , Li Chuan-Ming , Wang Wen-Jing , Hu Meng-Die
Published: November 2024

Foot reflexology is a non-invasive and safe complementary therapy that works by massaging the reflex zones of the feet and exerts systemic or whole-body regulation through meridian nerve conduction. This therapy is commonly used in the treatment of various conditions such as autism and Parkinson's disease. However, there is limited reporting on the use of foot reflexology therapy for infants with sensorineural hearing loss (SNHL). Currently, there is no definitive conclusion on how foot reflexology therapy can influence hearing. This editorial holds some guiding significance regarding this clinical issue. The aim is to present physiological evidence of how foot reflexology therapy can impact infants with SNHL, thereby enhancing clinician’s awareness of foot reflexology in treating infants with SNHL.
Refractory lipoatrophy treated with autologous whole blood injection: A case report
Authors: Kim Wonnam , Park Jun Su , Kim En Hyung
Published: November 2024

BACKGROUND

Intramuscular corticosteroid injection may cause adverse effects such as dermal and/or subcutaneous atrophy, alopecia, hypopigmentation, and hyperpigmentation. Although cutaneous atrophy can spontaneously resolve, several treatment options have been suggested for this condition.

CASE SUMMARY

In this paper, we report a case of corticosteroid injection induced lipoatrophy treated with autologous whole blood (AWB) injection, as the condition had been unresponsive to fractional laser therapy. A 29-year-old female patient visited the dermatology clinic complaining of skin depression on her right buttock area, which had appeared six months earlier. There had been only subtle improvement at the margins after fractional CO2 laser treatment; therefore, after obtaining informed consent from the patient, AWB treatment was initiated. One month after the first AWB injection, the size and depth of the lesion had noticeably improved, and a slight improvement was also observed in discoloration.

CONCLUSION

Close observation is the initial treatment of choice for steroid induced skin atrophy; however, for patients in need of immediate cosmetic improvement, AWB injection may be a safe and cost-effective alternative.
Fibre-reinforced concrete as an aspect of green construction technology
Authors:   University of Montenegro, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Bulevar Dzordza Vasingtona, 81000, Podgorica, Montenegro, Sinđić Grebović Radmila , Grebović Marko ,   University of Donja Gorica, Faculty for Information Systems and Technologies, Oktoih, 1, 81000, Podgorica, Montenegro
Published: November 2024

This study investigates the effects of the different types and percentages of fibre reinforcements in concrete on structures' design life to advance the phase of the products' use. Clearly, relatively wide cracks in the concrete during the structure's exploitation, using fibre reinforcement, will be transformed into a pattern of fine microcracks. Restricting the width of cracks using fibres in concrete advances the structure's design life, increasing its durability. Moreover, the investigation of the correlation between compressive and tensile strength indicates a significant increase in the tensile strength of fibre-reinforced concrete. The safety factor against failure of fibre-reinforced beams on the shear strength for mixtures with different amounts of fibres increased approximately two times with the growth of content steel fibre from 0,25 to 1,50 %. Concrete with recycled coarse aggregates and fibre reinforcement shows similar strength and ductility properties as concrete with natural aggregates. Using the synergy of positive effects of increased recycled coarse aggregate content, reduced participation of cementitious materials, and improved tensile behaviour by incorporating fibres in the concrete mixture is believed to be an option for green concrete with improved resistance to aggressive environmental influences. Cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods to advance fibre-reinforced concrete sustainability imply increasing the recycled aggregate content and lowering the consumption of cementitious materials with improved behaviour in exploitation.
Analysis of homogeneity and isotropy of the flow in the watercourses by applying the RAPS and IPTA methods
Authors:   University North, Department of Civil Engineering, Jurja Križanića 31b, 42000, Varaždin, Croatia, Đurin Bojan , Raič Mirna ,   University of Mostar, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Geodesy, Matice hrvatske bb, 88000, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Sušilović Petra ,   University of Mostar, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Architecture and Geodesy, Matice hrvatske bb, 88000, Mostar, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Banejad Hossein ,   Ferdowsi University of Mashhad, Department of Water Sciences and Engineering, Azadi Square, 9177948974, Mashhad, Iran
Published: November 2024

Due to the frequent climatic changes occurring worldwide, which are related to extreme meteorological parameters as well as human activities, it is obvious that these influence the flow regimes of rivers. River flow is the most important factor determining the hydrological regime of any river. This has a substantial influence on the water resources and the environment surrounding the river. Hydrotechnical structures are also dimensioned on the basis of the flow as the primary input parameter. The flow conditions have different properties and correlations with the material of the river bed. In this paper, possible dependencies and phenomena are investigated using real case studies on two rivers in Croatia - examples of river courses in alluvium and karst areas - with regard to homogeneity and isotropy analyses. For this purpose, rescaled adjusted partial sums and innovative polygon trend analysis methods will be applied on the form of a combination of methods at the same watercourses. It has been shown that the analysed time series of the flows do not exhibit homogeneity and isotropy. In addition, fluctuations and irregularities were detected in the same time series. This is key information for determining the reliability of the flow forecast.