bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An integrative model for online community citizenship behavior of luxury fashion brands on Instagram
Authors: Hsu Li-Chun
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study explores the creation of online brand relationships from the personal, social and brand perspectives of social media and its influence on the community citizenship behavior to establish an integrative model. With social identity theory (SIT) and the theory of socially shared cognition (TSSC) as the theoretical basis for model integration, this study identifies the key factors that maintain the relationship between online community members and brands and prompt brand members to establish a close emotional connection with the brand and generate community citizenship behavior for the brand.

Design/methodology/approach

This study examines community members who own products from luxury fashion brands (e.g. Louis Vuitton, Chanel and Hermès) and have followed the official Instagram account of the luxury fashion brand for at least 1 year, with a total of 582 valid samples. Structural equation modeling (SEM) is used to test the model.

Findings

All except for one of the hypotheses are supported, and the theoretical model exhibits acceptable goodness-of-fit. The strongest effect is that of brand community identification on affective brand commitment, followed by that of online co-creation on community citizenship behavior and that of brand commitment on community citizenship behavior.

Originality/value

SIT was used as the basis and extended to the TSSC to integrate the theoretical perspectives. This study identifies the online brand relationship between service providers and consumers, explores possible causes and consequences from multiple perspectives and proposes conclusions and practical management implications as references for marketing personnel.
Firm capabilities, use of Internet technologies and export performance: an empirical study of Polish exporters
Authors: Trąpczyński Piotr , Kawa Arkadiusz
Published: August 2023

Purpose

The objective of the paper is to examine the effects of firm capabilities on the use of Internet technologies, as well as the effect of the use of Internet technologies on export performance, by drawing from the resource-based view (RBV) and the information systems literature.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors test their propositions by using structural equation modelling (SEM) for 165 Polish exporters from the industrial manufacturing sector.

Findings

The authors’ findings indicate that the use of Internet technologies is positively related to the possessed capabilities of the firms. The use of Internet technologies is in turn positively related to export performance. The authors also find partial evidence for the fact notion that these relationships are moderated by the technology intensity of the sector.

Research limitations/implications

Firms which develop capabilities utilizing Internet technologies are able to enhance both communication and distribution efficiencies which in turn improve the effectiveness of their international operations.

Practical implications

Managers, particularly in sectors with a higher technological intensity, can find these findings useful as the study indicates where they should allocate their efforts to manage various Internet technologies activities for better export performance.

Originality/value

Existing literature has focused predominantly on the application of Internet technologies in the area of e-commerce. The authors go a step further in enhancing the understanding of digitalization in the business models of exporting firms by accounting for a broad variety of Internet-based technologies used by exporters.
The nexus between peace and mental well-being: contributions for public happiness
Authors: Marujo Helena Á
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This underscores individual and social implications for how mental disorders and mental well-being are constructed, conceived of and treated. Further, this paper aims to examine positive psychology’s role in supporting the advancement of a broader systemic and contextual approach to mental health. With that aim, this paper connects data on mental health and well-being with peace studies to describe the systems of value and social ecologies underpinning mental disorders, using public happiness/Felicitas Publica as a possible framework to enhance public mental health while intervening at the local level (Bruni and Zamagni, 2007; Marujo and Neto, 2013, 2014, 2016, 2017, 2021; Marujo et al., 2019).

Design/methodology/approach

Theoretical foundations and data on positive peace and mental well-being are described with the intention to propose a systemic, contextual, relational, communitarian, economic and sociopolitical perspective of well-being that goes beyond individual bodies and/or brains and, instead, views mental disorder and mental health as social currency (Beck, 2020).

Findings

The interventions using dialogic, conversational and community approaches are a possible path to promote peace, mental health and public happiness.

Research limitations/implications

Examining the interplay between the fields of positive psychology, mental health and cultures of peace, this work contributes to the broadening of research and subsequent intervention topics through transdisciplinary approaches while reinforcing the role of systemic and social determinants and complementing the prevalent medical model and intraindividual perspective of mental health and well-being.

Practical implications

Adopting positive psychology to address mental health through public happiness concepts and interventions opens opportunities to respond to the ebb and flow of social challenges and life-giving opportunities. Therefore, the paper intends to articulate actor-related, relational, structural and cultural dimensions while moving away from discrete technocratic and individual models and pays attention to the way their implementations are aligned with both individual and social needs.

Social implications

The work offers an inclusive, equalitarian, politically sensitive approach to positive mental health and positive psychology, bringing forward a structural transformation and human rights-based approach perspective while rethinking the type of social and political solutions to mental health issues.

Originality/value

Creating a critically constructive debate vis-à-vis the fluidity and complexity of the social world, the paper examines mental health and positive psychology simultaneously from a “hardware” (institutions, infrastructures, services, systems, etc.) and a “software” (i.e. individuals and community/societal relations).
Mandatory carbon reporting, voluntary carbon disclosure and ESG performance
Authors: Jiang Yan , Tang Qingliang
Published: August 2023

Purpose

This study aims to examine the impact of mandatory adoption of The Act 2013 in UK on voluntary carbon disclosure. Mandatory adoption of The Act 2013 in UK is a compelling setting to examine this research question because it is an exogenous imposed event and is unlikely to be affected by disclosure choice.

Design/methodology/approach

This study uses a difference-in-differences research design to examine the impact of mandatory adoption of The Act 2013 in UK on voluntary carbon disclosure. The treatment sample includes 451 UK firms subject to mandatory adoption of The Act 2013, and the control sample includes firms from 15 EU countries that did not mandate adoption during the sample period.

Findings

The authors document an increase in the quantity and quality of voluntary carbon disclosure following adoption of The Act 2013 in the treatment sample relative to the control sample. They also find that firms with better environmental, social and governance (ESG) performance experience a highly significant increase in voluntary carbon disclosure after adoption of The Act 2013. For firms from carbon-intensive vs less-carbon-intensive sectors, the results suggest that firms in carbon-intensive sectors experience a greater increase in the propensity of voluntary disclosure after adoption of The Act.

Originality/value

The authors examine the impact of mandatory adoption of The Act 2013 in UK on voluntary carbon disclosure and the impact of firms’ ESG activity on the relationship between voluntary and mandatory carbon disclosure. To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this insight has never been documented in the literature.
Damage in a saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea) population in the El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve, Sonora, Mexico
Authors: Jiménez‐Sierra Cecilia L. , Arroyo‐Pérez Erika , Matias‐Palafox María Loraine , Torres‐Orozco Daniel , Burgos‐Solorio Armando , Quintanar‐Isaías Alejandra , González‐Adán María de los Ángeles , Vázquez‐Quesada Benito
Published: August 2023

The saguaro is an endemic and emblematic columnar cactus of the Sonoran Desert that offers refuge and food to different species. Climate change and increased ultraviolet exposure are threatening this species. Although reports of an increase in “epidermal browning” in saguaro populations in the United States have been published, to the best of our knowledge, no studies of this or other types of damage to Mexican saguaro populations are available. The present research is the first report of its kind performed in a saguaro population in the El Pinacate and Gran Desierto de Altar Biosphere Reserve (Sonora, Mexico). Seven types of damage were evaluated and classified in saguaro stems: cactus cortical scaling (CCS = epidermal browning), girdling, shell, exposed root, eyelet, termite tubes, and topping cuts. In addition, an anatomical comparison of healthy and CCS‐damaged tissues is presented. Shell was the most frequent type of damage (91% of individuals), followed by CCS (73%). Girdling occurred mainly in small organisms. Shell, exposed root, eyelet, and termite tubes tended to occur more frequently in larger organisms, whereas CCS tended to be more evenly distributed among differently sized individuals. Of all individuals, 3.3% were undamaged, 89.2% were moderately damaged, and 7.5% were highly damaged. CCS damage causes differences in the composition of the tissues, as well as in stomata distribution, thus compromising the photosynthetic function of the stem. The snapshot of the state of the individuals provided in the present study highlights the need for longer‐term studies considering the long life cycle of the saguaro to develop conservation strategies.
Becoming Buddhists: The emergence of a prestigious temple
Authors: Zheng Enying
Published: August 2023

How does a novel organizational prototype come about and succeed to the point where it becomes recognized as an icon? To address this question, this article examines the organizational emergence of a prestigious temple. Drawing on interviews and content analysis of 6320 blog entries between 2006 and 2018, we identify how an organized way of practicing Buddhism emerged in China and trace its founding monks to students from two elite universities. We argue that organizational emergence—in this case the rise of a prestigious temple and what it stands for—was manifested by identity claims of “who we are” to audiences. Declaring “who we are not” prior to establishing this temple, the founding monks subsequently claimed their organizational identity in three distinct stages: who we are in this temple, who we are as a temple, and who we are as Buddhism. As these identity claims were recognized by the audiences, a novel Buddhist organization emerged. This article contributes to an organizational perspective of religious study and provides a focused case with sufficient temporary variations to explore how identity claims facilitate organizational emergence. It has important implications for understanding incremental yet fundamental institutional changes, as it provides a template of organized religion that nurtures social skills for self‐organizing. More broadly, these insights contribute toward developing a vibrant civil society.
Distribution of radiocaesium (137Cs) and radiopotassium (40K) during the cheese production
Authors: Muftić Emina , Gradaščević Nedžad , Članjak‐Kudra Enida , Mujić Nedim
Published: August 2023

Distribution of radionuclides depends on various factors, and milk processing into cheese is recommended as one of the significant measures of radiation protection during radioactive contamination of the environment. A total of 16 milk and 16 cheese (soft and hard) samples were examined using HPGe gamma‐ray spectrometry to obtain 137Cs and 40K activity concentrations. The Pearson's correlation coefficients between 137Cs and 40K were determined (0.73, 0.68, 0.19, −0.23), followed by determination of distribution of 137Cs and 40K from cow milk to two types of cheeses using food processing retention factors (0.07–0.34). Transfer of 137Cs obtained could serve a great purpose for predicting its distribution during cheesemaking.
Patient‐level indirect treatment comparison of lanadelumab versus pdC1‐INH i.v. in hereditary angioedema patients: PATCH study
Authors: Magerl Markus , Schiffhorst Guido , Fanter Lena , Müller Gerrit , Hirche Christoph , Berkemeier Fabian , Aygören Emel
Published: August 2023

Background

Hereditary angioedema (HAE) is an autosomal dominant inherited disease in which patients suffer from local attacks primarily affecting skin and gastrointestinal tract, and sometimes even the upper respiratory tract leading to asphyxiation. Since head‐to‐head trials between authorized treatments are lacking, this study compares efficacy and safety of lanadelumab and intravenous plasma‐derived C1‐esterase inhibitor (pdC1‐INH i.v.) in HAE patients on long‐term prophylaxis by means of an indirect treatment comparison.

Methods

Efficacy and safety of lanadelumab against pdC1‐INH i.v. were analyzed in a fully prespecified indirect comparison based on individual patient data (n = 231) from the HELP and CHANGE clinical trials. Primary and secondary efficacy endpoints were compared using a generalized linear model for count data. Confounding variables were identified a priori via systematic literature research and validated by clinical experts. Adjustment of confounders was implemented using a conditional regression model.

Results

Lanadelumab showed a statistically significant improvement in reduction of HAE attack rates compared to pdC1‐INH i.v. across multiple endpoints: Monthly attack rate of patients treated with lanadelumab was less than half compared to pdC1‐INH i.v. (Rate ratio: 0.486; 95% CI: 0.253, 0.932). Monthly rate of laryngeal attacks was found to be five times lower for lanadelumab (Rate ratio: 0.2; 95% CI: 0.044, 0.915) and monthly rate of acute treated HAE attacks among lanadelumab patients was about one third of the attack rate of pdC1‐INH i.v. patients (Rate ratio: 0.366; 95% CI: 0.185, 0.727).

Conclusion

This study contributes to current knowledge in the treatment of HAE by indicating a statistically significant reduction of HAE attacks under lanadelumab compared to pdC1‐INH i.v.
Birthweight of the subsequent singleton pregnancy following a first twin or singleton pregnancy
Authors: Basnet Prativa , Skjærven Rolv , Harmon Quaker E. , Wilcox Allen J. , Klungsøyr Kari , Sørbye Linn Marie , Morken Nils‐Halvdan , Kvalvik Liv G.
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Birthweight is an important pregnancy indicator strongly associated with infant, child, and later adult life health. Previous studies have found that second‐born babies are, on average, heavier than first‐born babies, indicating an independent effect of parity on birthweight. Existing data are mostly based on singleton pregnancies and do not consider higher order pregnancies. We aimed to compare birthweight in singleton pregnancies following a first twin pregnancy relative to a first singleton pregnancy.

Material and Methods

This was a prospective registry‐based cohort study using maternally linked offspring with first and subsequent pregnancies registered in the Medical Birth Registry of Norway between 1967 and 2020. We studied offspring birthweights of 778 975 women, of which 4849 had twins and 774 126 had singletons in their first pregnancy. Associations between twin or singleton status of the first pregnancy and birthweight (grams) in subsequent singleton pregnancies were evaluated by linear regression adjusted for maternal age at first delivery, year of first pregnancy, maternal education, and country of birth. We used plots to visualize the distribution of birthweight in the first and subsequent pregnancies.

Results

Mean combined birthweight of first‐born twins was more than 1000 g larger than mean birthweight of first‐born singletons. When comparing mean birthweight of a subsequent singleton baby following first‐born twins with those following first‐born singletons, the adjusted difference was just 21 g (95% confidence interval 5–37 g).

Conclusions

Birthweights of the subsequent singleton baby were similar for women with a first twin or a first singleton pregnancy. Although first twin pregnancies contribute a greater combined total offspring birthweight including more extensive uterine expansion, this does not explain the general parity effect seen in birthweight. The physiological reasons for increased birthweight with parity remain to be established.
A proposal for new definition (s) and management approach to paediatric refractory ITP: Reflections from the Intercontinental ITP Study Group
Authors: Neunert Cindy , Heitink‐Polle Katja M. J. , Lambert Michele P.
Published: August 2023

Immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) in children is a relatively mild and self‐limited disorder with the majority of children demonstrating normalization of platelet count by 12 months from diagnosis. Because of this, many children with ITP can be observed without the need for treatment. When needed, treatment with either intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIG) or corticosteroids is highly effective (>80% IVIG and >95% corticosteroids). For those children who require second‐line therapies, response rates of >60% are seen with both the thrombopoietin‐receptor agonists and rituximab. Despite this, some children will have ‘refractory’ ITP (rITP) with poor or transient responses to platelet‐raising therapies. Here, we review the clinical features of rITP in children, outline proposed classifications and explore potential predictors for children with rITP.
Did Covid‐19 Change Armed Group Governance? Evidence from a Survey of Local Security Authorities in Colombia
Authors: De Bruin Erica , Weintraub Michael
Published: August 2023

As the Covid‐19 pandemic began, initial reports suggested that armed groups would seize the opportunity to expand their control over territory and civilians. However, drawing on an original survey of local security officials responsible for monitoring armed group behaviour in Colombia, we find little evidence of significant shifts in the presence or behaviour of political or criminal groups. Contrary to prevailing expectations, we also find that armed group governance is common in areas contested by multiple groups. Our findings shed new light on armed group adaptation to shocks, and challenge the assumption that territorial control is a prerequisite for governance.
Licorice metabolite 18β‐glycyrrhetinic acid activates G protein‐gated inwardly rectifying K+ channels
Authors: Chen I‐Shan , Yasuda Jumpei , Notomi Takuya , Nakamura Tomoe Y.
Published: August 2023

Background and Purpose

Licorice (liquorice) is a common food additive and is used in Chinese medicine. Excess licorice intake can induce atrial fibrillation. Patients with atrial fibrillation possess constitutively activated G protein‐gated inwardly rectifying K+ (GIRK) channels. Whether licorice affects GIRK channel activity is unknown. We aimed to clarify the effects of licorice ingredients on GIRK current and the mechanism of action.

Experimental Approach

A major component of licorice, glycyrrhizic acid (GA), and its metabolite, 18β‐glycyrrhetinic acid (18β‐GA), were tested. We performed electrophysiological recordings in Xenopus oocytes to examine the effects of GA and 18β‐GA on various GIRK subunits (Kir3.1–Kir3.4), mutagenesis analyses to identify the crucial residues for drug action and motion analysis in cultured rat atrial myocytes to clarify effects of 18β‐GA on atrial functions.

Key Results

GA inhibited Kir3.1‐containing channels, while 18β‐GA activated all Kir3.x subunits. A pore helix residue Phe137 in Kir3.1 was critical for GA‐mediated inhibition, and the corresponding Ser148 in Kir3.2 was critical for 18β‐GA‐mediated activation. 18β‐GA activated GIRK channel in a Gβγ‐independent manner, whereas phosphatidylinositol 4,5‐bisphosphate (PIP2) was essential for activation. Glu236 located at the cytoplasmic pore of Kir3.2 appeared to be important to interactions with 18β‐GA. In rat atrial myocytes, 18β‐GA suppressed spontaneous beating via activation of GIRK channels.

Conclusion and Implications

GA acts as a novel GIRK inhibitor, and 18β‐GA acts as a novel GIRK activator. 18β‐GA alters atrial function via activation of GIRK channels. This study elucidates the pharmacological activity of licorice ingredients and provides information for drug design.
Identification of Fangji Huangqi Tang as a potential herbal formula for Sjogren syndrome treatment via network pharmacology and experimental validation
Authors: Shao Yanxiong , Hu Jun , Wang Shaohai , Jiang Hua , Miao Guojun , Li Chaoran , Zhang Jie , Xu Yubo
Published: August 2023

Fangji Huangqi Tang (FHT) is a well‐known Chinese herbal formula that is prescribed as treatment for rheumatoid diseases. In this study, we aimed to investigate the potential therapeutic targets, efficacy, and safety of FHT in the treatment of Sjogren's syndrome (SS). The Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) database was used to screen differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in SS. Further, gene ontology (GO) and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) enrichment analyses were performed to explore the potential biological functions of the DEGs. Subsequently, an FHT‐herb‐active compound‐target network was constructed to identify the relationship between the active compounds in FHT and the related targets. Then, enrichment analysis involving the DEGs and protein–protein interaction (PPI) network analysis were performed to analyze the biological functions of potential targets and screen hub genes. Further, molecular docking was employed to verify the binding affinity between the active compounds and the hub targets, and in vivo experiments involving NOD/LtJ mice were conducted to verify the therapeutic effects of FHT on SS‐like symptoms. Finally, inhibition of PIK3CK/Akt pathway by FHT was validated by WB and rt‐qPCR. A total of 1836 DEGs were identified in SS based on the GSE159574 dataset, and 114 targets of the active compounds in FHT were screened. Further, via network pharmacology analysis and molecular docking, six active compounds and five hub targets were obtained, and enrichment analysis showed that the anti‐SS effect of FHT was predominantly associated with immune cells, such as T cells and neutrophils. In vivo, FHT effectively reduced lymphocyte infiltration foci, increased saliva flow rate, and inhibited increases in the levels of SS‐related autoantibodies (anti‐SSA and anti‐SSB). Furthermore, the biosafety of FHT was verified via the serological examination of liver and kidney function. WB and rt‐qPCR analysis confirmed that FHT could inhibit the expression of PIK3CG and the activation of PIK3CG/Akt pathway. Via network pharmacological analysis, molecular docking, and in vivo verification, we demonstrated the multicomponent and multitarget characteristics of FHT in SS treatment, thereby providing novel insights into the pathogenesis of SS and the therapeutic targets of FHT for SS.
Inflammasomes NLRP3 and AIM2 in peri‐implantitis: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Galindo‐Moreno Pablo , Montalvo‐Acosta Saray , Martín‐Morales Natividad , Carrillo‐Gálvez Ana Belén , González‐Rey Elena , O'Valle Francisco , Padial‐Molina Miguel
Published: August 2023

Background

Inflammasome components NLRP3 and AIM2 contribute to inflammation development by the activation of caspase‐1 and IL‐1β. They have not been yet evaluated in samples from patients with active peri‐implantitis. Thus, the aim of the present study is to analyze the expression of inflammasomes NLRP3 and AIM2 and subsequent caspase 1 and IL‐1β assessing the microenvironment of leukocyte subsets in samples from patients with active peri‐implantitis.

Methods

Biopsies were collected from 33 implants in 21 patients being treated for peri‐implantitis. Biopsies from gingival tissues from 15 patients with healthy periodontium were also collected for control. These tissues were evaluated through conventional histological stainings. Then, immunohistochemical detection was performed to analyze NLRP3, AIM2, caspase‐1, and IL‐1β and markers of different leukocyte subsets. PCR for inflammasomes and related genes was also done.

Results

This manuscript reveals a high immunohistochemical and mRNA expression of NLRP3 and AIM2 inflammasomes, caspase‐1, and IL‐1β in biopsies collected from human peri‐implantitis. The expression of the tested markers was significantly correlated with the increase in inflammatory infiltrate, probing depth, presence of biofilm, and bleeding on probing. In these peri‐implantitis lesions, the area of biopsy tissue occupied by inflammatory infiltrate was intense while the area occupied by collagen was significantly lower. In comparison with periodontal healthy tissues, the inflammatory infiltrate was statistically significantly higher in the peri‐implantitis biopsies and was mainly composed of plasma cells, followed by T and B lymphocytes.

Conclusion

In human peri‐implantitis, chronic inflammation can be explained in part by the action of IL‐1β/caspase 1 induced through NLRP3 and AIM2 inflammasome activation.
Corticospinal excitability changes during muscle relaxation and contraction in motor imagery
Authors: Takenaka Yuma , Matsumoto Hitomi , Suzuki Tomotaka , Sugawara Kenichi
Published: August 2023

To enhance smooth muscle contraction and relaxation during rehabilitation and sports activities, a comprehensive understanding of the motor control mechanisms within the central nervous system is necessary. However, current knowledge on these aspects is insufficient. Therefore, this study aimed to deepen our understanding of motor controls, by investigating the alterations in corticospinal excitability within cortical motor areas related to muscle contraction and relaxation using motor imagery with a reaction time task paradigm. Transcranial magnetic stimulation was used to measure the motor‐evoked potentials in the first dorsal interosseous muscle of the right hand after the ‘go’ signal. Static weak muscle contraction (Experiment 1: 18 healthy participants) and resting state (Experiment 2: 16 healthy participants) were applied as background factors, and a trial without motor imagery was performed as a control. Muscle contraction was maintained in the background in the contraction motor imagery. A decrease in excitability in the relaxation motor imagery task occurred compared with the control. When the muscles were at rest, an increase in excitability in the contraction motor imagery and a transient increase in excitability in the relaxation motor imagery occurred compared with the control condition. Hence, the excitability of contraction and relaxation motor imagery is characterized by a continuous increase in excitability, transient increase and subsequent decrease in excitability, respectively. These results suggest that muscle contraction sensory information in the background condition may be necessary for muscle relaxation. Matching the background conditions may be crucial when utilizing motor imagery for rehabilitation or sports training.
Impact of nitrogen and phosphorus additions on soil gross nitrogen transformations in a temperate desert steppe
Authors: Yue Ping , Zhang Jinbo , Zhu Gaodi , Yin Xiaoyue , Zhang Xiaoxue , Wang Shaokun , Müller Christoph , Misselbrook Tom , Zuo Xiaoan
Published: August 2023

Nutrient addition has a significant impact on plant growth and nutrient cycling. Yet, the understanding of how the addition of nitrogen (N) or phosphorus (P) significantly affects soil gross N transformations and N availability in temperate desert steppes is still limited. Therefore, a 15N tracing experiment was conducted to study these processes and their underlying mechanism in a desert steppe soil that had been supplemented with N and P for 4 years in northwestern China. Soil N mineralization was increased significantly by P addition, and N and P additions significantly promoted soil autotrophic nitrification, rather than NH4+‐N immobilization. The addition of N promoted dissimilatory NO3− reduction to NH4+, while that of P inhibited it. Soil NO3−‐N production was greatly increased by N added alone and by that of N and P combined, while net NH4+‐N production was decreased by these treatments. Soil N mineralization was primarily mediated by pH, P content or organic carbon, while soil NH4+‐N content regulated autotrophic nitrification mainly, and this process was mainly controlled by ammonia‐oxidizing bacteria rather than archaea and comammox. NH4+‐N immobilization was mainly affected by functional microorganisms, the abundance of narG gene and comammox Ntsp‐amoA. In conclusion, gross N transformations in the temperate desert steppe largely depended on soil inorganic N, P contents and related functional microorganisms. Soil acidification plays a more key role in N mineralization than other environmental factors or functional microorganisms.
Load‐bearing capacity and wear characteristics of short fiber‐reinforced composite and glass ceramic fixed partial dentures
Authors: Mangoush Enas , Garoushi Sufyan , Vallittu Pekka , Lassila Lippo
Published: August 2023

The aim of this study was to evaluate load‐bearing capacity and wear performance of experimental short fiber‐reinforced composite (SFRC) and conventional lithium‐disilicate CAD/CAM fabricated fixed partial dentures (FPDs). Two groups (n = 12/group) of three‐unit CAD/CAM fabricated posterior FPDs were made. The first group used experimental SFRC blocks, and the second group fabricated from lithium‐disilicate (IPS e.max CAD). All FPDs were luted on a zirconia testing jig with dual‐curing resin cement. Half of FPDs per group were quasi‐statically loaded until fracture. The other half experienced cyclic fatigue aging (100.000 cycles, Fmax = 500 N) before loading quasi‐statically until fracture. Fracture mode was examined using SEM. Wear test was performed using 15,000 loading cycles. Both material type and aging had a significant effect on the load‐bearing capacity of FPDs. Experimental SFRC CAD without fatigue aging had significantly the highest load‐bearing capacity (2096 ± 149N). Cyclic fatigue aging decreased the load‐bearing capacity of the SFRC group (1709 ± 188N) but increased it for the lithium‐disilicate group (1546 ± 155N). Wear depth values of SFRC CAD (29.3μm) were significantly lower compared to lithium‐disilicate (54.2μm). Experimental SFRC CAD demonstrated the highest load‐bearing capacity before and after cyclic fatigue aging, and superior wear behavior compared to the control material.
Thromboelastometry and prediction of in‐hospital mortality in neonates with sepsis
Authors: Sokou Rozeta , Tsantes Andreas G. , Lampridou Maria , Tsante Konstantina A. , Houhoula Dimitra , Piovani Daniele , Bonovas Stefanos , Boutsikou Theodora , Iliodromiti Zoi , Iacovidou Nicoletta , Tsantes Argirios E. , Konstantinidi Aikaterini
Published: August 2023

Introduction

This study aimed at evaluating the role of rotational thromboelastometry (ROTEM) assays in the prediction of in‐hospital mortality of neonates with sepsis.

Methods

Over a 6‐year period, 129 neonates with confirmed sepsis, hospitalized in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU) were included in the study. Demographics, clinical, and laboratory data were recorded at the sepsis onset and ROTEM assays were performed. Modified neonatal multiple organ dysfunction (NEOMOD) and neonatal sequential organ failure assessment (nSOFA) were calculated simultaneously. Mortality during in‐hospital stay was the main outcome measure.

Results

In‐hospital mortality was associated with patient intense hypocoagulability expressed by lower ROTEM MCF in the INTEM assay. The INTEM MCF demonstrated the best prognostic performance for NICU mortality in septic neonates among the other ROTEM parameters but without statistical significance (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.731; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.593–0.869).

Conclusion

Our results indicate that ROTEM INTEM MCF parameter has good predictive capacity for in‐hospital mortality of septic neonates, similar to that of modified NEOMOD score, nSOFA score, and platelet count, highlighting the integral role of coagulation in sepsis pathophysiology. Hence, ROTEM could serve as a valuable monitoring tool to identify neonates at risk.
Effect of intramedullary fixation and plate fixation on postoperative wound complications in clavicle fractures: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Shangce , Huang Jin , Lamin Bangura Mohamed , Zeng Teng , Tian Yaqin , Liu Lian , Luo Huasong
Published: August 2023

More and more meta‐analyses have been conducted to compare the effects of intramedullary fixation (IF) and plate fixation (PF) on the outcome of midshaft clavicle fractures. It can affect the doctors' treatment decisions. A number of studies have been conducted in order to assist surgeons in selecting optimal operative procedures and to recommend operative treatment of clavicle fractures in accordance with the best available research. Our analysis of the IF and PF of clavicle fractures was done through a search for PubMed, Emabase, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library. Two different researchers analysed the research literature for quality of analysis and data extraction. The analysis of the data was done with RevMan 5.3. The 95% CI and OR models have been computed by means of either fixed‐dose or randomize. In addition, RCT in 114 references have been reviewed and added for further analysis. It is concluded that the application of plate and intramedullary fixation in the middle clavicle operation has remarkable influence on the outcome of post‐operation. There was a lower risk of postoperative wound infection in IF (OR, 5.92; 95% CI, 2.46, 14.27 p < 0.0001), smaller surgical incisions (MD, 6.57; 95% CI, 4.90, 8.25 p < 0.0001), and shorter operative time (MD, 17.09; 95% CI 10.42, 23.77 p < 0.0001), less blood loss (MD, 63.62; 95% CI, 55.84, 71.39 p < 0.0001) and shorter hospital stay (MD, 1.05; 95% CI, 0.84, 1.25 p < 0.0001). However, there is no statistical significance in the incidence of wound dehiscence. Thus, the effect of IF on the incidence of injury is better than that of the inner plate in the middle of the clavicle.
Infrared irradiation to drive phosphate condensation as a route to direct additive manufacturing of oxide ceramics
Authors: Somers Nicolas , Montón Alejandro , Özmen Eren , Losego Mark D.
Published: August 2023

This paper introduces a fast, low‐temperature, pressureless process to chemically bind ceramic parts with the help of infrared (IR) irradiation and phosphate binder condensation. Ceramic components are synthesized from slurries of ceramic powders and Al(H2PO4)3 binder that are irradiated with short‐waved IR light capable of heating the system to 350°C. This irradiation is found to be sufficient to drive phosphate condensation, binding the ceramic powders together within a matter of seconds. The IR‐irradiated components show an increase in density and Vickers hardness. Layer‐by‐layer spraying and irradiation is demonstrated as a route to additive manufacturing using various ceramic chemistries. While further optimization is needed to control desired microstructure, this process of using chemically bonded ceramic binders with IR heating for additive manufacturing shows the potential to find applications in various ceramic systems, including refractories, bone implants, electronics, and thermal barrier coatings.
European Parliament Elections in the Dutch Press and the Mainstreaming of Euroscepticism: Outsiders Becoming Insiders?
Authors: Bijsmans Patrick
Published: August 2023

Euroscepticism has become prominent across the European Union, also in countries that were originally seen as pro‐integrationist such as the Netherlands. Based on a qualitative analysis of claims in three major Dutch newspapers, I examine the mainstreaming of Euroscepticism in the Netherlands in the context of the 2009, 2014 and 2019 European Parliament elections. Mainstreaming refers to a process in which an idea becomes an integral part of debates in the public sphere. I examine the mainstreaming of Euroscepticism through a two‐part analysis that centres around a fourfold typology, which distinguishes between supportive, Euroalternative, soft Eurosceptic and hard Eurosceptic claims. I find that Euroscepticism has indeed become mainstream, in debates revolving around arguments for and against the European Union. Furthermore, Euroscepticism has not just become more prominent but has also moved from an outsider to an insider perspective. Yet, it often remains unclear what Euroscepticism actually entails.
Bidirectional relationship between nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and serum creatinine‐to‐body weight ratio as a proxy for skeletal muscle mass index
Authors: Tong Chao , Halengbieke Aheyeerke , Ni Xuetong , Han Yumei , Tao Lixin , Zheng Deqiang , Li Qiang , Yang Xinghua
Published: August 2023

Background and Aim

Although an association between skeletal muscle mass index and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) has previously been demonstrated, the causal direction remains unclear. Herein, we investigated the directional association between NAFLD and the serum creatinine‐to‐body weight ratio (sCr/bw), a surrogate marker of the muscle mass index, using longitudinal data.

Methods

We recruited 9662 participants in 2017 and performed follow‐up over 4 years. We evaluated whether sCr/bw was related to NAFLD development (Analysis I) and whether NAFLD was associated with a low sCr/bw incidence (Analysis II) using logistic regression models. Furthermore, a random intercept cross‐lagged panel model was applied to evaluate the bidirectional association between sCr/bw ratio and NAFLD (Analysis III).

Results

Analysis I demonstrated an association between sCr/bw and incident NAFLD (odds ratio [OR] = 0.160, 95% confidence interval [CI]:0.107–0.232). Analysis II indicated a relationship between NAFLD and subsequent low sCr/bw ratio (OR = 1.524, 95% CI: 1.258–1.846). Analysis III indicated that the standard regression coefficient from sCr/bw to subsequent hepatic steatosis (HS) was −0.053 for βsCr/bw2017 → HS2019 and −0.060 for βsCr/bw2019 → HS2021 and the coefficient from HS to subsequent sCr/bw was −0.093 for βHS2017 → sCr/bw2019 and −0.112 for βHS2019 → sCr/bw2021 (all P < 0.05).

Conclusions

This study indicated mutual causality between sCr/bw and NAFLD. Considering that sCr/bw is a surrogate marker of muscle mass index, the findings emphasize that NAFLD and low muscle mass form a vicious cycle, which should be taken seriously in clinical practice.
Sarcoma care in the era of precision medicine
Authors: Wallander Karin , Öfverholm Ingegerd , Boye Kjetil , Tsagkozis Panagiotis , Papakonstantinou Andri , Lin Yingbo , Haglund de Flon Felix
Published: August 2023

Sarcoma subtype classification is currently mainly based upon histopathological morphology. Molecular analyses have emerged as an efficient addition to the diagnostic workup and sarcoma care. Knowledge about the sarcoma genome increases, and genetic events that can either support a histopathological diagnosis or suggest a differential diagnosis are identified, as well as novel therapeutic targets. In this review, we present diagnostic, therapeutic, and prognostic molecular markers that are, or might soon be, used clinically. For sarcoma diagnostics, there are specific fusions highly supportive or pathognomonic for a diagnostic entity—for instance, SYT::SSX in synovial sarcoma. Complex karyotypes also give diagnostic information—for example, supporting dedifferentiation rather than low‐grade central osteosarcoma or well‐differentiated liposarcoma when detected in combination with MDM2/CDK4 amplification. Molecular treatment predictive sarcoma markers are available for gastrointestinal stromal tumor (GIST) and locally aggressive benign mesenchymal tumors. The molecular prognostic markers for sarcomas in clinical practice are few. For solitary fibrous tumor, the type of NAB2::STAT6 fusion is associated with the outcome, and the KIT/PDGFRA pathogenic variant in GISTs can give prognostic information. With the exploding availability of sequencing technologies, it becomes increasingly important to understand the strengths and limitations of those methods and their context in sarcoma diagnostics. It is reasonable to believe that most sarcoma treatment centers will increase the use of massive‐parallel sequencing soon. We conclude that the context in which the genetic findings are interpreted is of importance, and the interpretation of genomic findings requires considering tumor histomorphology.
Proliferative effect of cannabidiol in human gingival fibroblasts via the mitogen‐activated extracellular signal‐regulated kinase (MEK) 1/2
Authors: Montreekachon Pattanin , Chaichana Nopphanai , Makeudom Anupong , Kerdvongbundit Varunee , Krisanaprakornkit Warisara , Krisanaprakornkit Suttichai
Published: August 2023

Background and Objectives

Cannabidiol exerts its anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidant activities in various human cells. However, its proliferative effect has not been extrapolated to human gingival fibroblasts (HGFs). This study aimed to determine the proliferative and promigratory effects of cannabidiol in HGFs and to elucidate the signaling mechanism(s).

Materials and Methods

HGFs, characterized by their CD73, CD90, and CD105 expressions by flow cytometry, were treated with cannabidiol at 0.01–30 μM. The cytotoxicity was determined by the MTT assay, while the proliferative effect was examined by the BrdU assay, immunoblot and immunofluorescence for cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 expressions, respectively, and cell cycle analysis. The promigratory effect of cannabidiol was investigated by a wound healing assay. Phosphorylation of the p38 MAPK, JNK, and ERK upon treatment with cannabidiol was explored, and their involvement in cell proliferation and cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 expressions was studied using pharmacological inhibitors.

Results

No toxicity was found in HGFs treated with any doses of cannabidiol up to 30 μM. The mean percentage of cell proliferation was significantly enhanced by treatment with cannabidiol at 3 or 10 μM (p < .001), consistent with upregulated expressions of cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 and increased percentages of HGFs in the S and G2/M phases. Moreover, treatment with cannabidiol significantly induced cell migration (p < .05). The p38 MAPK and ERK1/2 were significantly activated by cannabidiol (p < .05), but only pretreatment with UO126, a MEK1/2 inhibitor, significantly inhibited cell proliferation and cyclin D1 and Ki‐67 expressions (p < .05).

Conclusion

Treatment with cannabidiol at non‐toxic doses promotes HGFs' proliferation and migration.
Bsep/Abcb11 knockout ameliorates Schistosoma mansoni liver pathology by reducing parasite fecundity
Authors: Macháček Tomáš , Fuchs Claudia D. , Winkelmann Franziska , Frank Marcus , Scharnagl Hubert , Stojakovic Tatjana , Sombetzki Martina , Trauner Michael
Published: August 2023

Background and Aims

Schistosoma mansoni infection is one of the worldwide leading causes of liver fibrosis and portal hypertension. The objective of this study was to evaluate whether polyhydroxylated bile acids (BAs), known to protect mice from the development of acquired cholestatic liver injury, counteract S. mansoni‐induced inflammation and fibrosis.

Methods

Adult FVB/N wild type (WT) and Abcb11/Bsep−/− mice were infected with either 25 or 50 S. mansoni cercariae. Eight weeks post infection, effects on liver histology, serum biochemistry, gene expression profile of proinflammatory cytokines and fibrotic markers, hepatic hydroxyproline content and FACS analysis were performed.

Results

Bsep−/− mice infected with S. mansoni showed significantly less hepatic inflammation and tendentially less fibrosis compared to infected WT mice. Despite elevated alanine aminotransferase, aspartate aminotransferase and alkaline phosphatase levels in infected Bsep−/− mice, inflammatory cells such as M2 macrophages and Mac‐2/galectin‐3+ cells were reduced in these animals. Accordingly, mRNA‐expression levels of anti‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐4 and IL‐13) were increased in Bsep−/− mice upon infection. Furthermore, infected Bsep−/− mice exhibited decreased hepatic egg load and parasite fecundity, consequently affecting the worm reproduction rate. This outcome could arise from elevated serum BA levels and lower blood pH in Bsep−/− mice.

Conclusions

The loss of Bsep and the resulting changes in bile acid composition and blood pH are associated with the reduction of parasite fecundity, thus attenuating the development of S. mansoni‐induced hepatic inflammation and fibrosis.
Metabolic control and quality of life in type 1 diabetes: Do adherence, family support, and school support matter?
Authors: Almeida Ana C. , Tavares Fabiana , Pereira M. Graça
Published: August 2023

This study analyzed the relationship between clinical and demographic variables, family support, school support, and adherence on adolescents' metabolic control and quality of life (QoL) based on Adaptation to Chronic Disease in Childhood's model. The sample included 100 adolescents and 100 parents. Adolescents were assessed on adherence, family support, school support, and QoL. Parents were assessed on family functioning and parental coping. A path analysis was performed to assess the adequacy of the theoretical model to the sample. Daily glycemic monitoring was associated with better metabolic control and diabetes hospitalizations with worse metabolic control. The final model showed adherence, family support, school support, and family functioning having an indirect effect on the relationship between adolescence stage, number of daily glycemic monitorings, number of hospitalizations, and metabolic control/QoL. Adherence had an indirect effect on the relationship between glycemic monitoring and family and school support, suggesting that adolescents need both types of support to perform diabetes self‐care tasks. QoL showed a direct effect on metabolic control revealing the importance of QoL in the design of interventions to promote metabolic control in adolescents.
Exemplarity and reflexivity in literature: Towards an elucidation of the knowledge embedded in the literary text
Authors: Jensen Julio
Published: August 2023

The question of the relation between philosophy and literature is, in the present contribution, approached from the notion of reflexivity as it appears in the thinking of Herder and Gadamer. Following up on Gadamer's critique of the Kantian and post‐Kantian idea of the autonomy of art, literature is considered a reflective discourse that at an existential level harvests insights that can be used in a fruitful exchange with philosophy. As an example of the reflexivity of literature, an analysis of Julio Cortázar's short story ‘The Continuity of Parks’ appears at the end of the article.