bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of a hospital discharge clinic among people with HIV: Lack of early follow‐up is associated with 30‐day hospital readmission and decreased retention in care
Authors: Hill Lucas , Thompson Courtney , Balcombe Shannon , Jain Sonia , He Feng , Karris‐Young Maile , Martin Thomas C. S. , Karim Afsana , Bamford Laura , Deiss Robert
Published: November 2023

Background

The transition between inpatient and outpatient care for hospitalized people with HIV represents an opportunity for linkage and re‐engagement in care. We evaluated whether attendance at a post‐hospitalization visit (‘discharge clinic’) within 1–2 weeks of discharge would reduce readmissions and improve retention in care (RIC) among people with HIV in San Diego, California, USA.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of people with HIV hospitalized between June 2020 and November 2021. Our primary outcome was 30‐day readmissions among people with HIV who did or did not attend a discharge clinic visit. Secondary outcomes included the effect of discharge clinic attendance on RIC, along with the impact of attendance at any HIV clinic visit within 30 days of discharge on readmissions and RIC.

Results

We evaluated 114 people with HIV, of whom 77 (67.5%) and 90 (78.9%) attended a discharge clinic visit or any HIV clinic visit within 30 days of discharge, respectively. Active substance use disorder (SUD) was associated with failing to attend a discharge clinic visit (odds ratio 0.31; 95% confidence interval 0.13–0.77). We observed no significant differences in readmissions between people with HIV who did or did not attend a discharge clinic visit; however, the former had significantly higher 6‐month RIC (79.2% vs. 35.1%, p < 0.001). People with HIV attending any HIV clinic visit within 30 days of discharge had significantly fewer 30‐day readmissions (8.9% vs. 29.2%, p = 0.02) and better 6‐month RIC (75.6% vs. 25%, p < 0.001) than those who did not attend.

Conclusion

Early hospital follow‐up care was associated with a reduction in readmissions among people with HIV. Active SUD was a significant barrier to linkage to outpatient follow‐up and RIC.
HIV disease metrics and COVID‐19 infection severity and outcomes in people living with HIV in central and eastern Europe
Authors: Oprea Cristiana , Quirke Siobhan , Ianache Irina , Bursa Dominik , Antoniak Sergii , Bogdanic Nikolina , Vassilenko Anne I. , Aimla Kersti , Matulionyte Raimonda , Rukhadze Nino , Harxhi Arjan , Fleischhans Lukáš , Lakatos Botond , Sedlacek Dalibor , Dragovic Gordana , Verhaz Antonija , Yancheva Nina , Acet Oguzhan , Protopapas Konstantinos , Kowalska Justyna Dominika ,   for the Euroguidelines in Central and Eastern Europe Network Group
Published: November 2023

Background

To date there remains much ambiguity in the literature regarding the immunological interplay between SARS‐CoV‐2 and HIV and the true risk posed to coinfected individuals. There has been little conclusive data regarding the use of CD4 cell count and HIV viral load stratification as predictors of COVID‐19 severity in this cohort.

Methods

We performed a retrospective, observational cohort study on people living with HIV (PLWH) who contracted COVID‐19 in central and eastern Europe. We enrolled 536 patients from 16 countries using an online survey. We evaluated patient demographics, HIV characteristics and COVID‐19 presentation and outcomes. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS 20.1.

Results

The majority of the study cohort were male (76.4%) and 152 (28.3%) had a significant medical comorbidity. Median CD4 cell count at COVID‐19 diagnosis was 605 cells/μL [interquartile range (IQR) 409–824]. The majority of patients on antiretroviral therapy (ART) were virally suppressed (92%). In univariate analysis, CD4 cell count <350 cells/μL was associated with higher rates of hospitalization (p < 0.0001) and respiratory failure (p < 0.0001). Univariate and multivariate analyses found that an undetectable HIV VL was associated with a lower rate of hospitalization (p < 0.0001), respiratory failure (p < 0.0001), ICU admission or death (p < 0.0001), and with a higher chance of full recovery (p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

We can conclude that detectable HIV viral load was an independent risk factor for severe COVID‐19 illness and can be used as a prognostic indicator in this cohort.
Similar temporal patterns in insect richness, abundance and biomass across major habitat types
Authors: Gebert Friederike , Bollmann Kurt , Schuwirth Nele , Duelli Peter , Weber Dominique , Obrist Martin K.
Published: November 2023

While many studies on insect diversity report declines, others show stable, fluctuating or increasing trends. For a thorough understanding of insect trends and their effects on ecosystem functioning, it is important to simultaneously assess insect richness, abundance and biomass, and to report trends for multiple taxa.

We analysed insect richness, abundance and biomass data for all insects and for eight insect taxa (Buprestidae, Cerambycidae, Carabidae, other Coleoptera, Aculeata, other Hymenoptera, Heteroptera and Lepidoptera) from 42 sites across Switzerland from 2000 to 2007, representing three major habitat types in Switzerland (agricultural, unmanaged [open and forested] and managed forest habitats). As potential drivers of temporal patterns, we evaluated weather‐ and land‐use‐related factors. As predictors, we included temperature and precipitation as well as the vegetation index and the habitat type, respectively.

We found a consistent pattern of stable or increasing trends for richness, abundance and biomass of insects in total and the eight taxa over 8 years. Both overall patterns and six out of eight taxa (except for Cerambycidae and Lepidotpera) showed the highest values in agricultural habitats. However, when accounting for elevation, there was no difference in open habitats regardless of whether they were used agriculturally.

Habitat types were the most important predictors, followed by weather‐ and vegetation‐related factors. Modelled responses to mean temperature were unimodal, whereas the standard deviation of temperature showed positive and precipitation negative effects. Longer time series are needed to draw robust inferences and to investigate potential negative effects of future warming.
HOUSING MARKET DISCOUNT RATES: EVIDENCE FROM BARGAINING AND BIDDING WARS
Authors: Koster Hans R.A. , Rouwendal Jan
Published: November 2023

When selling a home, through the choice of the list price, sellers make a trade‐off between achieving a quick sale at a low price or waiting for higher bids. This list‐price setting decision is governed by a discount rate. Using data on housing sales in the Netherlands, we derive gross discount rates under bilateral bargaining and bidding wars. The estimated discount rates are 25%–35%, which are considerably higher than long‐run housing market discount rates and may result from the seller's unfamiliarity with the selling process. The rates are higher for sellers that already moved and have a low education.
Granular titanium dioxide and silicon‐doped titanium dioxide as reusable photocatalysts for dye removal
Authors: Atalı Şahin Giray , Akbal Feryal , Gürbüz Mevlüt , Turan Bilgehan Cem
Published: November 2023

In this study, photocatalytic oxidation of methylene blue (MB) and malachite green (MG) dyes was investigated using granular pure titanium dioxide and silicon‐doped granular titanium dioxide as photocatalysts. Both catalysts were used repeatedly throughout the photocatalytic oxidation experiments. The effect of initial dye and catalyst concentration on photocatalytic oxidation was investigated. The photocatalytic oxidation followed first‐order kinetics for both catalysts. The efficiency of photocatalytic oxidation increased with the increasing catalyst concentration and decreased with the increasing dye concentration. In a 60‐min reaction using granular titanium dioxide, removal efficiencies of MB and MG at 20 g/100 mL catalyst loading and 10 mg/L initial concentration were 83% and 93.3%, respectively. In a 60‐min reaction using granular silicon‐doped titanium dioxide, the removal efficiencies of MB and MG at 5 g/100 mL catalyst loading and 10 mg/L initial concentration were 90.2% and 91.6%, respectively.
Orally disintegrating films based on sodium alginate as a carrier vehicle for vitamin C
Authors: Palezi Simone Canabarro , Fernandes Sibele Santos , Barbosa Sergiane Caldas , Primel Ednei Gilberto , Martins Vilásia Guimarães
Published: November 2023

Orally disintegrating films (ODFs) have been studied for their innovative way of delivering active compounds into the oral cavity. The study aimed to develop and evaluate ODFs using sodium alginate and different concentrations of vitamin C. Four formulations were evaluated for barrier, mechanical, thermal, microstructural properties, surface pH, disintegration time and concentration of vitamins. The ODFs produced showed high solubility, pH close to oral and disintegration time ranging from 24.66 s for the control formulation to 56.28 s for the 1% ascorbic acid formulation. The release of vitamin C occurred after 1 min of reaction for all formulations with the lowest concentration (0.25%) releasing a volume of 80.46 mg g−1. Thermal analyses demonstrated the presence of sodium alginate and vitamin C, and an interaction between them, confirmed by FTIR spectra. This interaction was interesting for ODFs since it can affect the properties and release of the active compound from the polymeric matrix. The results positively demonstrated that sodium alginate can be a promising polymer in the production of ODFs and for use in the delivery of vitamin C.
Leukocyte immunoglobulin‐like receptor A3 gene deletion in five Chinese populations and protective association with nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Tian Wei , Li Li Xin , Cheng Wen , Jin He Kun , Zhang Sha Shuang
Published: November 2023

Among the thirteen leukocyte Ig‐like receptor (LILR) loci located at 19q13.4, LILRA3 is unique in that it encodes a soluble protein lacking the transmembrane and cytoplasmic domains, and a 6.7 kb deletion spanning the first seven exons has been detected in some human individuals. Presently, there is a lack of data about the distribution of LILRA3 gene deletion in more diverse ethnic groups. Also, no previous studies have investigated the correlation between copy number variation (CNV) of LILRA3 and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). In this study, five populations from China mainland: two Southern Han populations, Hunan (N = 1478) and Guandong (N = 107); one Southeastern Han population, Fujian (N = 439); and two Northern populations, Inner Mongolia Han (N = 104) and Mongol population from Inner Mongolia (N = 158) were investigated for CNV of LILRA3 using polymerase chain reaction‐sequence‐specific priming (PCR‐SSP) method. LILRA3 variants were also examined in a cohort of NPC cases (N = 1142) in Hunan Han population. The five Chinese populations demonstrated northward increase in frequency of the deleted form of LILRA3 gene (LILRA3*Del) (all corrected p values < 0.05). Inter‐population comparison also uncovered significant differentiation in the distribution of CNV of LILRA3 among modern human populations. LILRA3*Del was found to confer significantly reduced risk to NPC in Hunan Han population (at allelic level: OR = 0.79, 95% CI = 0.71–0.89, p < 0.0001; at genotype level: OR = 0.63, 95% CI = 0.51–0.79, p < 0.0001). No interaction was found between LILRA3 variants and HLA‐A*02:07, HLA‐A*11:01, HLA‐B*13 and HLA‐B*46:01 alleles in susceptibility to NPC. Our study constitutes the first demonstration of LILRA3 gene as a locus linked to NPC susceptibility in a southern Chinese population. Future independent studies in other populations are warranted to confirm the findings reported in this study.
Partir ou passer à temps partiel: inégalité des effets des restructurations selon le genre
Authors: LAMBERT Anne , REMILLON Delphine , SEGÚ Mariona
Published: November 2023

Alors que la littérature sur les inégalités de genre en lien avec les restructurations d'entreprises porte sur le caractère discriminatoire des processus descendants, les autrices examinent si ces inégalités existent lorsque le plan de restructuration repose sur l'autosélection. À partir de l'exemple d'une compagnie aérienne et de l'utilisation de méthodes mixtes, elles constatent que les hommes sont plus susceptibles d'accepter un départ volontaire et moins susceptibles d'opter pour un temps partiel aidé. Ils sont plus sensibles aux incitations financières et mieux préparés à se reconvertir dans une activité secondaire, tandis que les femmes choisissent le temps partiel pour mieux concilier vie privée et vie professionnelle. Les restructurations semblent donc amplifier la précarité des femmes sur le marché du travail, même dans le cadre de plans de départs volontaires.
Protección sindical del empleo en tiempos de crisis económica. La pandemia de COVID‐19 como experimento natural
Authors: KIM Woo‐Yung
Published: November 2023

En este artículo se investiga si los sindicatos ajustaron los salarios y las horas de trabajo para proteger a sus afiliados durante la crisis económica provocada por la pandemia de COVID‐19 como perturbación exógena. Al analizar datos de panel de 2018–2020 en la República de Corea, se observa que la probabilidad de mantener el puesto de trabajo fue 1,9 veces mayor para los afiliados que para los no afiliados. Las horas de trabajo se redujeron más en el segmento sindicalizado, pero no se aprecian diferencias significativas en cuanto al crecimiento salarial. Se concluye que los sindicatos protegieron el empleo durante este periodo reduciendo las horas de trabajo, no los salarios.
Transparencia y conducta de evitación. Efectos de la información ambiental sobre la oferta de trabajo en China
Authors: SHEN Yu , SUN Wenkai
Published: November 2023

El impacto negativo de la contaminación atmosférica en la oferta de trabajo está bien documentado, pero apenas se ha estudiado si la transparencia informativa sobre la calidad del aire influye o no en ese resultado. Los autores investigan el programa chino de información ambiental como perturbación exógena. El método de diferencias en diferencias, aplicado a datos de encuestas sobre trabajadores migrantes, muestra que las horas de trabajo en espacios exteriores disminuyeron tras la implantación del programa, que la información pública puede provocar cambios conductuales en los trabajadores, y que medir el costo de la contaminación sin abordar el problema de la asimetría informativa puede introducir sesgos.
Comparative study on gene expression in psoriatic lesions versus chronic wound healing processes
Authors: Qiong Zhang , Dongxue Fu , Qing Zhang , Yukun Ren , Yuepeng An
Published: November 2023

Psoriasis and chronic ulcers not only significantly impair quality of life but also pose a challenge in dermatological treatment. This study aimed to identify new therapeutic targets and biomarkers for psoriasis and chronic ulcers by comparing their gene expression profiles. The gene expression profiles of psoriatic, wound and chronic ulcer patients, as well as healthy controls, were determined via RNA extraction and next‐generation sequencing of biopsies. In order to identify biomarkers, functional enrichment, differential expression analysis and machine learning algorithms were implemented. It is worth mentioning that the genes IL17A, TNF, KRT16, MMP9, and CD44 exhibited substantial correlations with the pathogenesis of the conditions being studied. As evidenced by their AUC‐ROC values approaching 0.90, machine learning models accurately identified these biomarkers. The differential gene expression was consequently validated via qRT‐PCR, which highlighted the increased expression of matrix remodelling enzymes and inflammatory cytokines. Additionally, genes essential for maintaining epidermis integrity and facilitating wound healing exhibited downregulation. These insights into the molecular mechanisms of psoriasis and chronic ulcers pave the way for the development of targeted therapies, offering hope for improved treatment strategies.
The Ethics of Viewing Illegally Shared Pornography
Authors: Garcia Andrés G.
Published: November 2023

I argue that the consumption of illegally shared pornography is often morally problematic. My argument is not based on any general condemnation of pornography or even illegal content sharing as such. Instead, my argument emphasizes that commercial pornography that is illegally shared risks violating the consent and thus the dignity of its performers. In this way, illegally shared pornography is akin to ‘revenge porn’, involving the non‐consensual distribution and consumption of sexually intimate images or videos. The idea is that if viewing sexually explicit content shared without the permission of the people featured within it is unethical, then the same is often true of the consumption of commercial pornographic content that has been shared illegally. My primary focus is on the commercial pornography produced and distributed by the performers themselves, but I also consider the moral status of more traditional forms of pornographic content.
Understanding English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language university teachers' synchronous online teaching satisfaction: A Chinese perspective
Authors: Sun Peijian Paul , Luo Xinran
Published: November 2023

Background

In a context where synchronous online teaching has become a new trend of instruction for online education due to the COVID‐19 pandemic, it is valuable and insightful to examine what factors contribute to teachers' satisfaction with synchronous online teaching.

Objective

Informed by the technology acceptance model (TAM), this study investigated English‐as‐a‐foreign‐language (EFL) university teachers' synchronous online teaching satisfaction in China from social (i.e., subjective norms), institutional (i.e., facilitating conditions), and individual (i.e., self‐efficacy, attitudes toward use, perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use) levels during the COVID‐19 pandemic.

Methods

A total of 250 in‐service EFL university teachers participated in this study. An online questionnaire was adaptively developed to measure teachers' perceptions of and satisfaction with synchronous online teaching. The structural equation modelling (i.e., path analyses) was performed to find out a model that can best represent EFL university teachers' synchronous online teaching satisfaction.

Results and Conclusion

The results showed that facilitating conditions, self‐efficacy, attitudes toward use, and perceived usefulness are direct contributors to EFL university teachers' satisfaction with synchronous online teaching. Whereas, perceived ease of use, self‐efficacy, and subjective norms are indirect contributors through the mediation of attitudes toward use. Moreover, different from previous TAM research, facilitating conditions have been found to be the most significant direct factor positively contributing to satisfaction. The findings of this study are expected to shed light on how to enhance teachers' synchronous online teaching satisfaction.
Associations of genetic variations in the M3 receptor with salt sensitivity, longitudinal changes in blood pressure and the incidence of hypertension in Chinese adults
Authors: Zhang Xi , Yao Shi , Bao Peng , Du Mingfei , Hu Guilin , Chu Chao , Wang Dan , Chen Chen , Ma Qiong , Jia Hao , Sun Yue , Yan Yu , Liao Yueyuan , Niu Zejiaxin , Man Ziyue , Wang Lan , Gao Weihua , Li Hao , Zhang Jie , Luo Wenjing , Wang Xin , Wang Yang , Mu Jianjun
Published: November 2023

Recent studies have reported the role of the M3 muscarinic acetylcholine receptor (M3R), a member of the G‐protein coupled receptor superfamily, encoded by the CHRM3 gene, in cardiac function and the regulation of blood pressure (BP). The aim of this study was to investigate the associations of CHRM3 genetic variants with salt sensitivity, longitudinal BP changes, and the development of hypertension in a Chinese population. We conducted a chronic dietary salt intervention experiment in a previously established Chinese cohort to analyze salt sensitivity of BP. Additionally, a 14‐year follow‐up was conducted on all participants in the cohort to evaluate the associations of CHRM3 polymorphisms with longitudinal BP changes, as well as the incidence of hypertension. The single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) rs10802811 within the CHRM3 gene displayed significant associations with low salt‐induced changes in systolic blood pressure (SBP), diastolic blood pressure (DBP), and mean arterial pressure (MAP), while rs373288072, rs114677844, and rs663148 exhibited significant associations with SBP and MAP responses to a high‐salt diet. Furthermore, the SNP rs58359377 was associated with changes in SBP and pulse pressure (PP) over the course of 14 years. Additionally, the 14‐year follow‐up revealed a significant association between the rs619288 polymorphism and an increased risk of hypertension (OR = 1.74, 95% CI: 1.06‐2.87, p = .029). This study provides evidence that CHRM3 may have a role in salt sensitivity, BP progression, and the development of hypertension.
Factors associated with the sexual transmission of Strongyloides stercoralis in men who have sex with men: A systematic review
Authors: Chessell Callum , Rabuszko Lucy , Richardson Daniel , Llewellyn Carrie
Published: November 2023

Strongyloides stercoralis is a parasitic worm with a complex life cycle and can cause significant morbidity, including a proctocolitis and life‐threatening hyperinfection syndrome. Limited reports from non‐endemic areas, including in men who have sex with men (MSM), suggest sexual transmission of S. stercoralis. In this systematic review of the published literature, we aimed to explore the associated factors of S. stercoralis in MSM. We systematically searched three bibliographical databases (MEDLINE, CINAHL and EMBASE) up to November 2022. We used a two‐stage process to assess eligibility: the primary author conducted an initial screen of abstracts, and then three authors conducted independent full manuscripts to determine the final eligible manuscripts. We only included manuscripts written in English that contained data on specific factors associated with sexual transmission in MSM. We used the STROBE checklist to assess the risk of bias and synthesized the narrative data using the SWiM method. Seven manuscripts were eligible for this review (four case reports, one case series, one cross‐sectional study and one experimental study), which included 22 individuals from Europe and the Americas. From these studies, S. stercoralis in MSM was associated with living with HIV (including having a low CD4 count and not using antiretrovirals), having a concomitant sexually transmitted infection (Chlamydia trachomatis, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, Treponema pallidum and hepatitis C) and a concomitant (sexually transmitted) protozoal infection (Entamoeba histolytica, Giardia lamblia), travel to the S. stercoralis endemic area, multiple sexual partners from endemic areas, oro–anal sexual contact and chemsex. Although limited by the number of cases in the literature, we have highlighted some possible biological and behavioural risk factors associated with the sexual transmission of S. stercoralis in MSM that could be used to both target future research and S. stercoralis public health control interventions.
Phenotypic and genomic insights into the pathogenicity and antimicrobial resistance of an Enterobacter roggenkampii strain isolated from diseased silver arowana (Osteoglossum bicirrhosum)
Authors: Li Yuerui , Sun Zhongshi
Published: November 2023

Enterobacter roggenkampii is an opportunistic pathogen that causes infections in a wide range of hosts. A bacterial strain named EOBSR_19 was isolated from diseased silver arowana, Osteoglossum bicirrhosum. This bacterium was identified as E. roggenkampii based on the phenotypic characteristics and sequence analysis of the16S rDNA and gyrB genes. Average nucleotide identity and phylogenetic analysis based on the whole genome sequence further confirmed the bacterial taxonomy of EOBSR_19. Artificial experimental infection indicated that EOBSR_19 was pathogenic to fish. Antimicrobial susceptibility test showed it was multi‐drug resistant. The EOBSR_19 was found to be resistant to 18 antibiotics belonging to quinolones, macrolides, sulfonamides, aminoglycosides, and β‐lactams classes. The whole genome sequencing analysis showed that EOBSR_19 carried 730 virulence genes that were annotated for different functional modules, such as adhesion and invasion, secretion system, siderophore transport system and bacterial toxin. Among them, the virulence genes related to adhesion and invasion were the most abundant. In addition, drug resistance genes involved in multiple mechanisms of antimicrobial resistance were identified in its genomics, including multidrug resistance efflux pumps, antibiotic inactivating enzymes, and antibiotic binding site mutations. Its genomic analysis via whole‐genome sequencing provided insights into the pathogenicity and antimicrobial resistance.
FODMAP meal challenge test: a novel investigation to predict response to low‐FODMAP diet in non‐constipating irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Ghoshal Uday C. , Mustafa Uzma , Mukhopadhyay Subhra K.
Published: November 2023

Background

Though a low‐FODMAP diet improves 50% irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) patients, regional dietary variations, vegetarianism, and long‐term nutritional consequences challenge its implementation. We aimed developing a FODMAP meal challenge test (FMCT). We prospectively studied whether (i) high‐ than low‐FODMAP foods produce more breath H2 among IBS patients than controls; (ii) post‐meal symptoms relate to breath H2; and (iii) novel FMCT predicts response to a low‐FODMAP diet?

Methods

Forty Rome III IBS and 20 healthy controls underwent an eight‐hour H2 breath test following a low‐ (rice, brinjal, corn, and banana [450 Kcal]) and a high‐FODMAP meal (wheat, kidney bean, pulse, and card [450 Kcal]). Breath H2 (every 15 min) and symptoms following low‐ and high‐FODMAP meals were recorded. IBS‐symptom severity scores were recorded every month for 3‐months on low‐FODMAP diet.

Results

Forty Rome III IBS (19 Rome IV positive) were comparable to 20 controls in age and gender. IBS patients (n = 39 excluding one H2 non‐producer) and controls produced more breath H2 after high‐ (greater in IBS) than low‐FODMAP meal. Post‐meal symptoms were commoner in IBS (4/40 [10%] and 27/40 [67.5%] with low‐ and high‐FODMAP, respectively [P < 0.00001]; none in healthy). IBS patients developing post‐high‐FODMAP meal symptoms produced greater H2 (18 PPM [IQR 10.5–23] vs 6 [0–7.2]; P < 0.001). A positive FMCT (breath H2 > 10 PPM above basal with symptoms following high‐FODMAP food) had sensitivity, specificity, and diagnostic accuracy of 78.6%, 66.6%, and 75.6%, respectively, to predict low‐FODMAP diet response.

Conclusions

The novel FMCT predicts response to a low‐FODMAP diet in IBS.
Facilitating endoscopic full‐thickness resection for gastric submucosal tumors with a novel snare traction method (with video)
Authors: Gu Lei , Wang Xiaotong , Ouyang Miao , Li Fujun , Wu Yu , Liu Xiaowei
Published: November 2023

Background and Aim

Endoscopic full‐thickness resection (EFTR) is a promising technique in treating gastric submucosal tumors originating from the muscularis propria (SMT‐MPs). However, it is challenging without counter‐traction.

Methods

A snare was inserted through the forceps channel to grasp the part of the tumor or the mucosa connected to the tumor. The outer sheath and inner wire of snare in vitro were fixed by a pair of hemostatic forceps. The handle of snare was cut off, and the endoscope was pulled out without affecting the traction state of snare. Snare‐assisted EFTR (EFTR‐S) was then performed with counter‐traction. One hundred and four patients with gastric SMT‐MPs who received the procedure of EFTR with or without snare traction method were retrospectively analyzed using univariate and multiple regressions, and covariates were adjusted in the multiple analysis.

Results

Compared with EFTR group (n = 36), EFTR‐S group (n = 68) showed a higher operative success rate (95.6% vs 72.2%, P = 0.001), a lower incidence of intraoperative hemorrhage (4.4% vs 16.7%, P = 0.038) and shorter operative time among operative successes (53.6 ± 16.6 min vs 67.7 ± 33.4 min, P < 0.001). Univariate logistic analysis showed that snare traction represented a significant factor, which could improve operative successful rate (odds ratio, 8.3; 95% confidence interval, 2.1 to 32.7; P = 0.002). Postoperative outcomes and adverse events among operative successes were similar between the two groups.

Conclusions

This novel snare traction method may provide an effective counter‐traction and reduce the difficulty of EFTR for gastric SMT‐MPs.
Elusive coral and fish: Reconsidering the shore‐offshore separation in Caribbean archipelagos
Authors: Rivera‐Sotelo Aída‐Sofía
Published: November 2023

To deathly stories of marine biodiversity loss, this article adds stories of deep connectivity and multispecies migrations that cut across the simultaneous promotion of coral restoration nearshore and gas exploration offshore in Colombian governmental strategies to meet international commitments in the United Nations Convention on Climate Change. My argument is that these historically and spatially situated relations in the Caribbean of Colombia are elusive—hard to grasp and predict—when using only the lens of extinction. The limits of coral restoration experiments and artisanal fishing far out in the sea indicate vital spaces of transit that transgress shore/nearshore/offshore separations. In this sense, these vital spaces of transit are elusive to the governmental strategies meant to protect coral and fish. This analysis offers a geography of disappearance to extinction studies, an approach to separations within the sea in times of climate change, and attention to a region overlooked in social research.
Engendering “Illegality”: Blackness, citizenship, and Dominico‐Haitian motherhood
Authors: Lyon Jacqueline
Published: November 2023

In 2013,the Dominican Republic's highest court ruled to retroactively apply the elimination of jus soli citizenship, commonly known as birthright citizenship. The ruling impacted more than 200,000 Dominicans of Haitian descent and culminated a decades‐long attack on territorially based citizenship in the country, which largely provided access to the children of Haitians, who make up more than 80% of the country's migrants. The intensification of anti‐birthright citizenship politics and the implementation of a host of restrictive measures since 2004 shifted focus from the male labor as the primary target of migrant control, to the “pregnant migrant.” This article examines how these policies shaped Dominico‐Haitian women's experiences of motherhood by drawing on interviews and participant observation undertaken from 2014 to 2018 in and around Santo Domingo. I argue that anti‐birthright citizenship politics target Black women's reproduction in a form of racialized violence that shares continuities with the nation's history of enslavement.
Fat transplant: Amazing growth and regeneration of cells and rebirth with the miracle of fat cells
Authors: Hajimortezayi Zahra , Daei Narges , Gholizadeh Nasim , Zakeri Mana , Alhili Farah , Hasanzadeh Sajedeh , Hormozi Arezoo , Ebrahimi Faezeh , Zamani Majid
Published: November 2023

Backgrounds and Objective

During fat transplantation, adipose tissue is removed from the body and injected into different areas under the skin. The goal of this review article is to look into the efficacy and applicability of fat transplantation in regenerative medicine and rejuvenation, including Nanofat, Microfat, and Millifat.

Methods

As a search strategy and study selection, we searched the PubMed and Medline databases until 2023 using related keywords (e.g., Nanofat, Microfat and Millifat, Regenerative Medicine, and Rejuvenation).

Results

Autologous fat transplantation has no risk of an allergic reaction or rejection of the transplant by the individual. Autologous adipose tissue is considered an ideal filler for facial rejuvenation and is suggested as the most biocompatible and non‐immunogenic skin filler. Adipose tissue transplant may have semi‐permanent to permanent effects. According to recent reports, adipose tissues possess a high percentage of mature stem cells. The effect of regenerating adipose tissue and its intrinsic cells can be described as an obvious process. Variations in the sizes of adipose tissues can result in different results depending on the surgical site. Based on topographic assessment, graft fats are assigned depending on the anatomical locations and the size such as Millifat (2–2.5 mm), Microfat (1 mm), and Nanofat (500 μm or less).

Conclusion

Some characteristics of fat tissue increase its effectiveness, such as increasing stem cells, growth factors, cytokines, and compounds effective in repair, regeneration, and rejuvenation.
Clinical presentation, course, and prognosis of patients with mixed connective tissue disease: A multicenter retrospective cohort
Authors: Chevalier Kevin , Thoreau Benjamin , Michel Marc , Godeau Bertrand , Agard Christian , Papo Thomas , Sacre Karim , Seror Raphaèle , Mariette Xavier , Cacoub Patrice , Benhamou Ygal , Levesque Hervé , Goujard Cécile , Lambotte Olivier , Bonnotte Bernard , Samson Maxime , Ackermann Félix , Schmidt Jean , Duhaut Pierre , Kahn Jean‐Emmanuel , Hanslik Thomas , Costedoat‐Chalumeau Nathalie , Terrier Benjamin , Regent Alexis , Dunogue Bertrand , Cohen Pascal , Guern Véronique Le , Hachulla Eric , Chaigne Benjamin , Mouthon Luc
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The objective of this study is to better characterize the features and outcomes of a large population of patients with mixed connective tissue disease (MCTD).

Methods

We performed an observational retrospective multicenter cohort study in France. Patients who fulfilled at least one diagnostic criterion set for MCTD and none of the criteria for other differentiated CTD (dCTD) were included.

Results

Three hundred and thirty patients (88% females, median [interquartile range] age of 35 years [26–45]) were included. The diagnostic criteria of Sharp or Kasukawa were met by 97.3% and 93.3% of patients, respectively. None met other classification criteria without fulfilling Sharp or Kasukawa criteria. After a median follow‐up of 8 (3–14) years, 149 (45.2%) patients achieved remission, 92 (27.9%) had interstitial lung disease, 25 (7.6%) had pulmonary hypertension, and 18 (5.6%) died. Eighty‐five (25.8%) patients progressed to a dCTD, mainly systemic sclerosis (15.8%) or systemic lupus erythematosus (10.6%). Median duration between diagnosis and progression to a dCTD was 5 (2–11) years. The presence at MCTD diagnosis of an abnormal pattern on nailfold capillaroscopy (odds ratio [OR] = 2.44, 95% confidence interval [95%CI] [1.11–5.58]) and parotid swelling (OR = 3.86, 95%CI [1.31–11.4]) were statistically associated with progression to a dCTD. Patients who did not progress to a dCTD were more likely to achieve remission at the last follow‐up (51.8% vs. 25.9%).

Conclusions

This study shows that MCTD is a distinct entity that can be classified using either Kasukawa or Sharp criteria, and that only 25.8% of patients progress to a dCTD during follow‐up.
Comparison of low‐level laser therapy and standard treatment for temporomandibular disorders: An assessment of therapeutic and placebo effects
Authors: Chamani Goli , Zarei Mohammad Reza , Rad Maryam , Mafi Sahar
Published: November 2023

Background

Despite extensive research on the use of low‐power lasers for TMD treatment, the extent of their effectiveness remains uncertain.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic or placebo effect of LLLT for TMD, and to compare it with standard treatment methods. A unique aspect of this study was the inclusion of a control group that received only standard treatment, allowing for an assessment of the placebo effect of LLLT.

Methods

A total of 42 patients with TMD were referred to Kerman Dental School Pain Clinic and were randomly assigned to three groups: group A received LLLT, group B was a placebo group and group C was a control group that received only standard treatment. The laser groups received gallium‐aluminium‐arsenide laser treatment twice a week for 10 sessions. Patients' jaw movement rate indicators and VAS index were evaluated at the start of treatment, and indicators were re‐recorded every week for 5 weeks. SPSS 21 was used for statistical analysis, including ANOVA and Tukey's post hoc tests for inter‐group comparisons. The repeated measurement test was used to analyse the data.

Results

All groups showed significant improvement in VAS indicators (p = .0001), lateral jaw movements (p = .0001), forward jaw movement (p = .007) but not for maximum mouth opening. No significant difference was observed between the groups at the end of the study (p = .000).

Conclusion

Our study provides insights into LLLT's effectiveness for TMD, suggesting it cannot replace standard treatment alone. These findings contribute to the literature and emphasise the importance of including a control group in future studies to assess the placebo effect of LLLT.
More about being fun: Making friends to maximize social status
Authors: Leggett‐James Mary Page , Laursen Brett
Published: November 2023

Objective

Children perceived by peers as someone who is fun reap interpersonal rewards, but little is known about what makes someone fun or how being fun leads to social success. The present study is designed to identify what qualities makes someone fun and how being fun leads to social success.

Method

Two studies of children in primary and middle school are reported. Participants in the present investigation attended a public‐school representative of Florida school children in terms of ethnicity and income. In the first study, 351 (179 girls, 172 boys) students (8–11 years old) completed surveys twice (M = 8.5 weeks apart) during an academic year, describing the qualities of “someone who is fun.”

Results

At both time points, kindness and humor were rated as more important than buffoonery. In the second study, 394 (210 girls, 184 boys) students (8–13 years old) completed peer nomination surveys thrice (M = 8.5 weeks apart) during an academic year. Replicating previous findings, being fun predicted increases in social status (i.e., likeability and popularity).

Conclusions

Unique to this study, full longitudinal mediation analyses indicated that being perceived as fun early in the school year predicted friend gain from the beginning to the middle of the school year, which, in turn, predicted increases in perceived likeability and popularity from the middle to the end of the school year. The findings were unique to being fun. Kindness and humor did not predict friend gain.
Does narcissus prefer to be alone? Narcissistic personality features and the preference for solitude
Authors: Zeigler‐Hill Virgil , Vonk Jennifer , Fatfouta Ramzi
Published: November 2023

Objective

To examine the associations that narcissistic personality traits had with the preference for solitude.

Background

Preference for solitude may be impacted by various characteristics. Narcissism may be one such characteristic given its association with specific motivations for engagement with other individuals (e.g., status attainment).

Method

We examined whether the associations that narcissism had with the preference for solitude were moderated by perceived attainment of status or instability of status.

Results

Across three studies (N = 627/479/675), extraverted narcissism had the expected aversion to solitude. Antagonistic narcissism and neurotic narcissism did not have consistent associations with the preference for solitude across these studies, nor did the perceived attainment of status consistently moderate the links between narcissistic personality features and the preference for solitude. However, perceived instability of status moderated the associations that extraverted narcissism and antagonistic narcissism had with the preference for solitude. More specifically, the more stable status was perceived to be, the greater the aversion to solitude for those high in extraverted narcissism and the greater the preference for solitude for those high in antagonistic narcissism.

Conclusions

This pattern of results suggests that the motivations underlying preferences for solitude differ depending on particular narcissistic traits that predict whether one is more concerned with maintaining, gaining, or losing status. These results build upon what is known about the connections that narcissism has with the preference for solitude.
Growth patterns of ingroup and outgroup prosocial behavior in Colombian and Uruguayan adolescents: Examining gratitude and forgiveness as predictors of change
Authors: Mesurado Belen , Resett Santiago
Published: November 2023

The first goal of the current research was to study the short‐term developmental patterns of ingroup and outgroup prosocial behavior during the middle adolescence stage among Uruguayan and Colombian adolescents. The second goal was to study the probability of inclusion in each trajectory class arising from gratitude and forgiveness (understood as the absence of negative emotions and the presence of positive emotions toward an aggressor) while controlling for gender and age. The study included two short‐term longitudinal samples from two Latin American countries: Colombia (N = 212,Mage = 13.82 years, SD = 1.25) and Uruguay (N = 269,Mage = 14.02 years, SD = 1.39). The data were collected at three time points within a 3‐month interval. The first finding indicated that different patterns in ingroup and outgroup prosocial behavior in adolescents emerged in both Latin American countries. Moreover, two classes—high and low—were identified in the trajectory of ingroup prosocial behavior, while three different classes—high, moderate, and low—were found in the trajectory of outgroup prosocial behavior in both countries. The results indicated that high levels of gratitude increased the probability that Uruguayan adolescents were included in the group of adolescents with high levels of ingroup prosocial behavior. High levels of positive emotions toward an aggressor (a dimension of forgiveness) increased the probability that a Colombian adolescent belonged to the group of adolescents with high levels of ingroup prosociality. Regarding outgroup prosocial behavior, different predictors were also identified between the countries. The results indicated that high levels of gratitude and positive emotions toward an aggressor increased the probability that Uruguayan adolescents were included in the group of adolescents with high or moderate levels of outgroup prosocial behavior. Only positive emotions toward an aggressor increased the probability that Colombian adolescents were included in the group of adolescents with high or moderate levels of outgroup prosocial behavior.
Period prevalence of positional head deformations and implications for practice in a large tertiary neonatal unit
Authors: Hepnar Lindsay , Ngenda Naoni , Cottrell Michelle , Lai Melissa , Sharpe Janet , August Deanne
Published: November 2023

Aim

To establish the prevalence of positional head deformations (PHDs) within a neonatal unit (NU) setting, and to evaluate the subsequent impact that PHDs have on NU graduates and their families.

Methods

A prospective audit was conducted over a six‐week period within a tertiary NU (Brisbane, Australia). Eligible babies were measured weekly using a craniometer where presence, type and severity of PHD were determined. Univariate analysis was undertaken to establish differences in clinical characteristics between babies with, and without, the presence of PHD.

A study‐specific survey was completed by a separate set of families returning for outpatient follow‐up services who represented similar clinical characteristics and risk factors for PHD.

Results

Fifty‐three babies were eligible for inclusion in the audit. PHDs were identified in 66% (n = 35) of the cohort, the most common being scaphocephaly (52.8%, n = 28). Within that, 46% (n = 13) were classed as mild, 25% (n = 7) were moderate and 29% (n = 8) were severe. Moderate correlation (r = 0.55) was found between severity of scaphocephaly, and length of time spent in an isolette. Of the 10 (66% response from 15 families) surveys completed, 80% of respondents perceived that their child's PHD had impacted their life.

Conclusions

Two‐thirds of babies developed a PHD during their neonatal admission. Most families surveyed perceived this condition to have an impact on their lives beyond the confines of the nursery. Further research is needed to identify preventative interventions to decrease the prevalence and severity of this common condition.
Periodontitis is associated with altered brain structure and function in normal cognition middle‐aged and elderly individuals
Authors: Li Xiaoshu , Tao Yufei , Li Hui , Huang Ziang , Li Yuqing , Gao Ziwen , Zhu Wanqiu , Li Xiaohu , Yu Yongqiang
Published: November 2023

Background

Numerous studies have proposed that periodontitis is a potential risk factor for Alzheimer's disease. However, the association between periodontitis and brain normal cognition in aged and elderly individuals (NCs) is unclear. Such a link could provide clues to Alzheimer's disease development and strategies for early prevention.

Objective

To explore the associations between periodontal condition and metrics of both brain structure and function among NCs with the help of multimodal magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Methods

High‐resolution T1‐weighted structural data, resting‐state functional‐MRI data, and measures of periodontal condition were collected from 40 NCs. Cortical volume, thickness, and area as well as regional homogeneity were calculated with the aid of DPABISurf software. Correlation analyses were then conducted between each imaging metric and periodontal index.

Results

Consistent negative correlations were observed between severity of periodontitis (mild, moderate, severe) and cortical volume, area, and thickness, not only in brain regions that took charge of primary function but also in brain regions associated with advanced cognition behavior. Among participants with mild attachment loss (AL) and a shallow periodontal pocket depth (PPD), periodontal index was positively correlated with most measures of brain structure and function, while among participants with severe AL and deep PPD, periodontal index was negatively correlated with measures of brain structure and function (all p < .005 for each hemisphere).

Conclusions

Our results demonstrate that periodontitis is associated with widespread changes in brain structure and function among middle‐aged and elderly adults without signs of cognitive decline, which might be a potential risk factor for brain damage.