bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Dietary sterol availability modulates heat tolerance of Daphnia
Authors: Koussoroplis Apostolos‐Manuel , Sperfeld Erik , Pincebourde Sylvain , Bec Alexandre , Wacker Alexander
Published: December 2022

The increasing frequency and intensity of summer heatwaves are pushing freshwater zooplankton towards their upper thermal tolerance limits. At the same time, higher temperatures and prolonged water column stratification can favour the dominance of cyanobacteria in phytoplankton. Even when not toxic or grazing resistant, these prokaryotes lack phytosterols as essential precursors for cholesterol, the main sterol in animal tissues. Cholesterol plays a crucial role in the physiological adaptation of ectotherms to high temperature. Therefore, the shift to cyanobacteria‐dominated systems may increase the vulnerability of zooplankton to heatwaves by intensifying cholesterol limitation.

Here, we used death time curves that take into consideration the intensity and duration of a thermal challenge and a dynamic model to study the effects of cholesterol limitation on the heat tolerance of the keystone species Daphnia magna and to simulate the cumulative mortality that could occur in a fluctuating environment over several days of heatwave.

We show that increasing cholesterol limitation does not affect the slope between time‐to‐immobilisation and temperature, but does decrease the maximal temperature that Daphnia can withstand by up to 0.74°C. This seemingly small difference is sufficient to halve the time individuals can survive heat stress.

Our simulations predicted that, when facing heatwaves over several days, the differences in survival caused by cholesterol limitation build up rapidly. Considering the anticipated intensity and duration of future (2070–2099) heatwaves, cholesterol limitation could increase mortality by up to 45% and 72% under low and medium greenhouse gas emission scenarios, respectively.

These results suggest that the increasing risk of cholesterol limitation due to more frequent cyanobacterial blooms could compromise the resistance of zooplankton populations to future heatwaves. More generally, this study shows the importance of considering the nutritional context in any attempt to predict ectotherm mortality with increasing temperatures in the field.
BACH1 regulates erythrophagocytosis and iron‐recycling in β‐thalassemia
Authors: Penglong Tipparat , Saensuwanna Apisara , Pholngam Nuttanan , Tansila Natta , Buncherd Hansuk , Srinoun Kanitta
Published: December 2022

Macrophages play essential roles in erythrophagocytosis and iron recycling. β‐thalassemia is characterized by a genetic defect in hemoglobin synthesis, which increases the rate of iron recycling. We previously showed that reduced expression of the BTB and CNC homolog 1 (BACH1) gene leads to increased phagocytosis of abnormal RBCs by activated monocytes. However, the mechanisms underlying this abnormal RBC clearance remained unclear. Herein, the spleen and bone marrow cells of β‐thalassemic mice were examined for erythrophagocytosis CD markers and iron‐recycling genes. Higher expression levels of CD47 and CD163 on RBCs and macrophages, respectively, were observed in β‐thalassemic mice than in wild‐type cells. The decreased expression of BACH1 caused an increase in Nrf2, Spic, Slc40a1, and HMOX1 expression in splenic red pulp macrophages of thalassemic mice. To investigate BACH1 regulation, a macrophage cell line was transfected with BACH1‐siRNA. Decreased BACH1 expression caused an increase in CD163 expression; however, the expression levels were lower when the cells were cultured in media supplemented with β‐thalassemia/HbE patient plasma. Additionally, the iron recycling‐related genes SPIC, SLC40A1, and HMOX1 were significantly upregulated in BACH1‐suppressed macrophages. Our findings provide insights into BACH1 regulation, which plays an important role in erythrophagocytosis and iron recycling in thalassemic macrophages.
Comparative study of titanium dioxide to improve the quality of finished cosmetic products
Authors: Świątczak Dominika , Belica‐Pacha Sylwia , Zawisza Anna , Kisielewska Aneta , Światły‐Błaszkiewicz Agata , Kupcewicz Bogumiła , Bartosewicz Bartosz , Jankiewicz Bartłomiej J. , Małecka Magdalena
Published: December 2022

Objective

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) pigments (pure) or with a hydrophobic coating of triethoxycaprylylsilane (TECSi) used in cosmetics. Using different methods, we studied properties of commercially available pure and coated pigment. We determined the elemental composition of pigments that differ in their behaviour in a cosmetic formulation. The significant differences in the coating composition were revealed.

Methods

UV–Vis absorption spectroscopy allowed us to investigate the pigment purity and determined the polymorph form in pigments. FTIR was employed to identify functional groups present in the samples with the modified surface. XRD, DLS, TEM and DCS were applied to characterize particle size and morphology. The experiment of ED‐XRF method was used to determine the elemental composition of pigments that differ in their behaviour in a cosmetic formulation.

Results

UV–Vis spectroscopy was used to detect organic pollutants in particular batches, which were not detected in the cases of the tested samples. Solid UV–Vis spectroscopy and XRD revealed which crystalline form of TiO2 is present in pigments. TEM and DLS methods were used to characterize particle size and morphology as well as DCS method, which provide more accurate information about form (separated or clustered particles) of pigments' particles in suspensions. Based on FTIR spectra, the presence of a coating in the raw material was identified, and the tell‐tale signal of the silane group. On the contrary, spectroscopy of washed‐out product can identify the well or poorly modified pigment. Applying ED‐XRF, it turned out that the content of silicon (and consequently of the TECSi) was lower than that declared by the manufacturer.

Conclusion

Our data indicate how we can recognize poorly coated pigments in raw material. The results show that ED‐XRF method is nondestructive, effective and fast, hence, can be successfully introduced into preproduction pigment control in cosmetic industry.
Characterization of nano‐hydroxyapatite incorporated carboxymethyl chitosan composite on human dental pulp stem cells
Authors: Gurucharan Ishwarya , Saravana Karthikeyan Balasubramanian , Mahalaxmi Sekar , Baskar Kaviya , Rajkumar Gurusamy , Dhivya Vijayakumar , Kishen Anil , Sankaranarayanan Seshadri , Gurucharan Natanasikamani
Published: December 2022

Aim

To compare the odontogenic differentiation potential of a composite scaffold (CSHA) comprising of nano‐hydroxyapatite (nHAp) and carboxymethyl chitosan (CMC) with Biodentine on human dental pulp stem cells (hDPSCs).

Methodology

A CSHA scaffold was prepared through an ultrasonication route by adding nHAp and CMC (1:5 w/w) in water medium followed by freeze‐drying. Physicochemical characterization was achieved using scanning electron microscopy with energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. In‐vitro bioactivity and pH assessments were done by soaking in simulated body fluid (SBF) for 28 days. The angiogenic and odontogenic differentiation abilities were assessed by expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) and Dentine sialophosphoprotein (DSPP) markers on cultured hDPSCs by flow cytometry and RT‐qPCR at 7, 14 and 21 days. Cell viability/proliferation and biomineralization abilities of CSHA were compared with Biodentine by MTT assay, alkaline phosphatase (ALP) activity, Alizarin Red Staining (ARS) and osteopontin (OPN) expression on hDPSCs following 7 and 14 days. Data were statistically analysed with Kruskal Wallis and Friedman tests as well as one way anova followed by appropriate post hoc tests (p < .05).

Results

Characterization experiments revealed a porous microstructure of CSHA with pore diameter ranging between 60 and 200 μm and 1.67 Ca/P molar ratio along with the characteristic functional groups of both HAp and CMC. CSHA displayed bioactivity in SBF by forming apatite‐like crystals and maintained a consistent pH value of 7.70 during 28 days' in vitro studies. CSHA significantly upregulated VEGF and DSPP levels on hDPSCs on day 21 compared with day 7 (p < .05). Further, CSHA supported cell viability/proliferation over 14 days like Biodentine with no statistical differences (p > .05). However, CSHA exhibited increased ALP and ARS activity with an intense OPN staining compared with Biodentine after 14 days (p < .05).

Conclusion

The results highlighted the odontogenic differentiation and biomineralization abilities of CSHA on hDPSCs with significant VEGF and DSPP gene upregulations. Further, CSHA exhibited enhanced mineralization activity than Biodentine, as evidenced by increased ALP, ARS and OPN activity on day 14. The nHAp‐CMC scaffold has the potential to act as an effective pulp capping agent; however, this needs to be further validated through in‐vivo animal studies.
Protection of dystrophic muscle cells using Idebenone correlates with the interplay between calcium, oxidative stress and inflammation
Authors: Valduga Amanda Harduim , Mizobuti Daniela Sayuri , Moraes Fernanda dos Santos Rapucci , Mâncio Rafael Dias , Moraes Luis Henrique Rapucci , Hermes Túlio de Almeida , Macedo Aline Barbosa , Minatel Elaine
Published: December 2022

There is strong cross‐talk between abnormal intracellular calcium concentration, high levels of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and an exacerbated inflammatory process in the dystrophic muscles of mdx mice, the experimental model of Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). In this study, we investigated effects of Idebenone, a potent anti‐oxidant, on oxidative stress markers, the anti‐oxidant defence system, intracellular calcium concentrations and the inflammatory process in primary dystrophic muscle cells from mdx mice. Dystrophic muscle cells were treated with Idebenone (0.05 μM) for 24 h. The untreated mdx muscle cells were used as controls. The MTT assay showed that Idebenone did not have a cytotoxic effect on the dystrophic muscle cells. The Idebenone treatment was able to reduce the levels of oxidative stress markers, such as H2O2 and 4‐HNE, as well as decreasing intracellular calcium influx in the dystrophic muscle cells. Regarding Idebenone effects on the anti‐oxidant defence system, an up‐regulation of catalase levels, glutathione reductase (GR), glutathione peroxidase (GPx) and superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity was observed in the dystrophic muscle cells. In addition, the Idebenone treatment was also associated with reduction in inflammatory molecules, such as nuclear factor kappa‐B (NF‐κB) and tumour necrosis factor (TNF) in mdx muscle cells. These outcomes supported the use of Idebenone as a protective agent against oxidative stress and related signalling mechanisms involved in dystrophinopathies, such as DMD.
Strong f–f excitation in hafnium germanate: Near‐UV LED and cathode beam–pumped red phosphor with thermal robustness
Authors: Wu Quansheng , Ye Shanshan , Zhou Xufeng , Ding Jianyan
Published: December 2022

Developing narrowband red phosphors has always been a frontier topic in the phosphor community. In this study, a novel hafnium germanate red phosphor, BaHfGe3O9:Eu3+, was successfully synthesized by solid‐state reaction method. The phase and crystal structure of BaHfGe3O9 were investigated by the Rietveld refinement of powder X‐ray powder diffraction. The band structure was analyzed by density functional theory calculations. Most importantly, the luminescence behavior of phosphors under near‐ultraviolet (n‐UV) light and cathode rays sources was studied in detail to explore the possibility of their applications in white light‐emitting diodes and field emission display. The BaHfGe3O9:Eu3+ phosphor exhibits strong f–f excitation and excellent thermal robustness due to Eu3+ localization in the rigid lattice and asymmetric Ba2+ sites. Under cathode rays and n‐UV light excitation, BaHfGe3O9:Eu3+ exhibits narrowband red light emission peaked at 610 nm. Moreover, BaHfGe3O9:Eu3+ shows excellent saturation resistance and aging resistance. The performance of the LED lamp encapsulated by the BaHfGe3O9:Eu3+ phosphor was studied. The results show that BaHfGe3O9:Eu3+ is a potential red phosphor for multifunctional applications.
The impact of inulin addition and high‐pressure processing on physical characteristics of strawberry‐flavoured egg white pudding
Authors: Ngamlerst Chattraya , Vatthanakul Suteera , Leelawat Bootsrapa , Supawong Supattra , Prinyawiwatkul Witoon
Published: December 2022

High‐protein egg puddings prepared with traditional food processing may have undesirable textures. Inulin addition and high‐pressure processing (HPP) could improve the texture of these products. The physical properties of strawberry‐flavoured egg white pudding as affected by inulin addition and HPP were investigated. Four levels of inulin (0, 5%, 10%, and 15% w/w) and 3 processing methods (HPP at 450 or 475 MPa at 25 °C for 10 min, and heat treatment at 80 °C for 30 min) were applied. Regardless of % inulin addition, heat‐treated puddings had significantly lower syneresis than HPP‐treated samples. HPP at 450 and 475 MPa was shown to induce egg white gelation and yielded a soft texture of pudding than heat treatment. Overall, the addition of inulin in puddings treated with HPP yielded a softer texture, more microporous, and a fluffy texture compared to heat‐treated puddings. This study suggested that a 10% inulin addition in the egg white pudding significantly improved its texture properties.
Cerrado and Pantanal fruit flours affect gut microbiota composition in healthy and post‐COVID‐19 individuals: an in vitro pilot fermentation study
Authors: Mauro Carolina Saori Ishii , Hassani Maryame Kadiri , Barone Monica , Esposito Maria Teresa , Calle Yolanda , Behrends Volker , Garcia Sandra , Brigidi Patrizia , Turroni Silvia , Costabile Adele
Published: December 2022

Cerrado and Pantanal plants can provide fruits with high nutritional value and antioxidants. This study aims to evaluate four fruit flours (from jatobá pulp, cumbaru almond, bocaiuva pulp and bocaiuva almond) and their effects on the gut microbiota in healthy (HD) and post‐COVID‐19 individuals (PC). An in vitro batch system was carried out, the microbiota was analysed by 16S rRNA amplicon sequencing and the short‐chain fatty acids ratio was determined. Furthermore, the effect of jatobá pulp flour oil (JAO) on cell viability, oxidative stress and DNA damage was investigated in a myelo‐monocytic cell line. Beyond confirming a microbiota imbalance in PC, we identified flour‐specific effects: (i) reduction of Veillonellaceae with jatobá extract in PC samples; (ii) decrease in Akkermansia with jatoba and cumbaru flours; (iii) decreasing trend of Faecalibacterium and Ruminococcus with all flours tested, with the exception of the bocaiuva almond in HD samples for Ruminococcus and (iv) increase in Lactobacillus and Bifidobacterium in PC samples with bocaiuva almond flour. JAO displayed antioxidant properties protecting cells from daunorubicin‐induced cytotoxicity, oxidative stress and DNA damage. The promising microbiota‐modulating abilities of some flours and the chemopreventive effects of JAO deserve to be further explored in human intervention studies.
Introducción: Patrones mundiales de segmentación legal en el derecho del trabajo
Authors: MÜCKENBERGER Ulrich , DINGELDEY Irene
Published: December 2022

El objetivo de este número monográfico es enriquecer el debate sobre la nueva regulación («rerregulación») del derecho individual del trabajo, aplicando el concepto de segmentación legal desde una perspectiva mundial y distinguiendo tres funciones de la legislación laboral: estandarización, constitución de privilegios e igualación. En este artículo introductorio se utiliza una nueva base de datos creada por los autores, que permite agrupar los países según una tipología de segmentación legal. Además de abordar las cuestiones metodológicas, se exponen las conclusiones preliminares, contrastándolas con los estudios regionales y temáticos de este monográfico, que proponen políticas destinadas a crear y aplicar normas protectoras inclusivas para todos los trabajadores.
Thermodynamics properties of Bi38ZnO58 and phase equilibria of Bi2O3–ZnO system
Authors: Gong Weiping , Luo Zhihong , Shen Youqu , Wang Ting , Li Kai , Zhao Zhenting
Published: December 2022

The Bi2O3–ZnO system is of interest for optimization of the electro‐ceramic synthesis process. There are some limitations and conflictions in the experimental studies of the Bi2O3–ZnO phase diagram in literature. In this work, five Bi2O3–ZnO compositions were prepared and characterized. The Bi38ZnO58 compound was confirmed, and its heat capacities and phase transformation properties were detected. A thermodynamic description of the Bi2O3–ZnO system was carried out based on the present work and previous studies. A set of thermodynamic database and the calculated phase diagrams of the Bi2O3–ZnO system were provided, which help to explain the discrepancies in literature.
Receiving and breaking bad news: A qualitative study of family carers managing a cancer diagnosis and interactions with healthcare services
Authors: Postavaru Gianina‐Ioana , McDermott Hilary , Biswas Sanchia , Munir Fehmidah
Published: December 2022

Aims

To explore family carer experiences of managing the process of receiving and breaking bad news about cancer.

Background

Family carers' experiences of bad news are underrepresented in the literature. This study involved oncology staff with personal experience of caregiving and carers to develop broader insights into the range of needs and difficulties experienced by family members in the process of managing a cancer diagnosis. This can help facilitate subsequent interactions with healthcare professionals and improve continuity of care.

Design

This is a descriptive qualitative study informed by the theory of social constructionism. Data were analysed using template analysis.

Methods

Data were collected using semi‐structured interviews and focus groups with 4 healthcare professionals and 17 family carers between January and July 2018. A purposive sampling strategy was used. Interviews were transcribed verbatim to explore participant experiences and perspectives on family carers managing a cancer diagnosis.

Findings

Three key themes were identified: (1) receiving the bad news; (2) management of bad news and (3) interaction with healthcare and support services. These and associated subthemes are discussed, with recommendations for future research and practice.

Conclusions

There was variability in the experiences and needs of carers involved in receiving and breaking the bad news.

Impact

Although family members experienced a multitude of difficult emotions when the bad news was shared, they were not often able to discern help from healthcare professionals with sharing the diagnosis with the patient and others. This impacted on access to and use of healthcare and support services. Individualized approaches to communication are needed to enable carers to seek support and provide perspectives on the patient home environment and family structure. This can help tailor breaking the bad news and care plans.

Public Contribution

Anonymised results were shared with family carers to validate the congruency of the codes with their experiences.
Challenging behaviour and its risk factors in children and young people in a special school setting: A four wave longitudinal study
Authors: Nicholls Gemma , Bailey Tom , Grindle Corinna F. , Hastings Richard P.
Published: December 2022

Background

Longitudinal research is needed to strengthen evidence for risk factors for challenging behaviour in children with intellectual disabilities and to understand patterns of change over time.

Methods

Data on challenging behaviour were collected for 225 students in one school over four annual time points and a range of potential risk correlates. Data were analysed using Generalised Estimating Equations.

Results

Prevalence of challenging behaviour, aggression and self‐injury did not vary significantly over time. Stereotyped behaviours increased over the 4‐year period. Challenging behaviour was associated with lower levels of adaptive skills and autism. Stereotyped behaviour increased with age. Self‐injurious behaviour was less likely to be shown in children with profound intellectual disabilities over time.

Conclusions

These findings are consistent with previous research in terms of potential risk factors identified. Implications for schools include proactive interventions for children with intellectual disabilities at high risk; especially those with autism and poorer adaptive skills.
Comparison of complete resection rates in cold snare polypectomy using two different wire diameter snares: A randomized controlled study
Authors: Horii Toshiki , Suzuki Sho , Sugita Akihiro , Yamauchi Misa , Ikehara Hisatomo , Kusano Chika , Gotoda Takuji
Published: December 2022

Background and Aim

Cold snare polypectomy (CSP) is a standard treatment for small colorectal polyps. This study examined the effect of different snare wire diameters on complete histological resection rate, resection depth, and CSP safety.

Methods

This randomized controlled trial was conducted at two institutions between June 2019 and March 2021. Eligible colorectal polyps (≤10 mm) were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to receive either CSP with a conventional snare made of normal‐diameter wire (0.40 mm) or CSP with a dedicated snare made of thin wire (0.23 mm). The primary endpoint was the complete resection rate determined on histological assessment of the resected specimen.

Results

In total, 254 lesions in 152 patients were included, with 128 and 126 lesions assigned to the normal‐diameter wire snare group and the thin‐wire snare group, respectively. No significant differences were observed in patient characteristics between the two groups. The histological complete resection rate was significantly higher in the thin‐wire snare group than in the normal‐diameter wire snare group (70.0% vs 81.0%, P = 0.04). The normal‐diameter wire snare group had significantly more cases of unclear horizontal margin evaluation than the thin‐wire snare group (28.1% vs 15.9%, P = 0.02). No significant differences were observed between the two groups in the muscularis mucosa and submucosa of the resected specimens or the thickness of the submucosa in the resected specimens.

Conclusions

CSP with a dedicated thin‐wire snare provides more specimens that can be evaluated at the horizontal end and increases the histological complete resection rate.
Clinical presentation of COVID‐19 and association with outcomes among hospitalized older adults
Authors: Ohuabunwa Ugochi , Afolabi Phebe , Tom‐Aba Daniel , Fluker Shelly‐Ann
Published: December 2022

Background

Older adults from racial and ethnic minority groups are at higher risk for worse outcomes with COVID‐19. This study sought to characterize the symptomatology of COVID‐19 and the association of symptoms with all‐cause in‐hospital mortality and respiratory failure in a cohort of older, predominantly African American adults admitted to a tertiary hospital.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of all hospitalized patients 65 and older with a positive SARS‐CoV‐2 test was conducted in a 953‐bed academic, urban hospital. Measurements included demographics, symptoms, laboratory findings, and outcomes. The primary outcome was in‐hospital mortality, and the secondary outcome was respiratory failure.

Results

A total of 134 patients with a mean age of 76.4 years were studied. Fifty‐six percent were men and 90% were African American. Of these, 108 patients presented with typical symptoms, among whom 89.8% had co‐existing geriatric syndromes. Only 10.2% presented with typical symptoms alone. The most common typical symptoms were fever (57%), shortness of breath (SOB) (51.2%), and cough (48.8%). Atypical symptoms were present in 68 (51%) patients, of whom 83.8% had co‐existing typical symptoms and 76.5% had co‐existing geriatric syndromes. Only 17.2% of patients presented with atypical symptoms alone. Atypical symptoms identified were anorexia (43%), dizziness (12.4%), and syncope (7.4%). Geriatric syndromes were identified in 102 (76%) patients, including altered mental status (71.1%), weakness (26.4%), and falls (24.8%). Respiratory failure occurred in 65.8% of patients, with 35.4% requiring ventilators while 22.3% of patients died. Age, male gender, SOB, sepsis, and certain laboratory values were associated with outcomes.

Conclusion

Hospitalized older adults infected with SARS‐CoV‐2 may present with a range of symptoms encompassing typical, atypical, and geriatric syndromes. Early testing for COVID‐19 should be considered in hospitalized older adults.
Your mother was right… You should stand up straight
Authors: Lyles Kenneth W. , Cacchio Patrick B.
Published: December 2022

This editorial comments on the article by Cours et al. in this issue.
Comparison of the effects of AgNPs on the morphological and mechanical characteristics of cancerous cells
Authors: Zhu Jiajing , Tian Yanling , Cao Liang , Hu Jing , Yan Jin , Wang Zuobin , Liu Xianping
Published: December 2022

Currently, silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) are the most produced nanoparticles in global market and have been widely utilized in the biomedical field. Here, we investigated the morphological and mechanical effects of AgNPs on cancerous cells of A549 cells and SMMC‐7721 cells with atomic force microscope (AFM). The influence of AgNPs on the morphological properties and mechanical properties of cancerous cells were characterized utilizing the force–volume (FV) mode and force spectroscopy (FS) mode of AFM measurement. We mainly focus on the comparison of the effects of AgNPs on the two types of cancerous cells based on the fitting results of calculating the Young's moduli utilizing the Sneddon model. The results showed that the morphology changed little, but the mechanical properties of height, roughness, adhesion force and Young's moduli of two cancerous cells varied significantly with the stimulation of different concentrations of AgNPs. This research has provided insights into the classification and characterization of the effects of the various concentrations of AgNPs on the cancerous cells in vitro by utilizing AFM methodologies for disease therapy.
Reducing Disparities in Postpartum Care Utilization: Development of a Clinical Risk Assessment Tool
Authors: Tenfelde Sandi , Joyce Cara , Tell Dina , Masinter Lisa , Wallander‐ Gemkow Jena , Garfield Lindsey
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Patients receiving care at Federally Qualified Health Centers (FQHCs) have low postpartum care attendance. Perinatal morbidity and mortality disproportionately affect patients with low‐income and are potentially preventable. The purpose of this study was to develop a clinical decision support tool to identify FQHC patients less likely to return for postpartum care. To accomplish this purpose, we evaluated established predictors and novel risk factors in our patient population.

Methods

This is a retrospective, secondary data analysis of 50,022 patients who received prenatal care past 24 weeks’ gestation in FQHCs between 2012 and 2017. The postpartum visit was defined using Healthcare Effectiveness Data and Information Set measures as early care (birth to 21 days) and later care (21‐84 days). Anderson's Behavioral Model for Access to Healthcare guided inclusion of potentially predictive factors. We stratified data by postpartum care attendance, and a final predictive model was selected by model fit statistics and clinical relevance.

Results

In our sample, 64% of birthing persons attended postpartum care at FQHCs. Of those who returned for care, 38% returned within 21 days postbirth and 62% returned between 21 and 84 days, with 28% returning for both early and later care. Predictors for postpartum care attendance included maternal age, parity, gestational age at first visit, and number of prenatal care visits. A clinical decision support tool for identifying patients less likely to return for care was created.

Discussion

An easy to implement clinical decision support tool can help identify FQHC patients at risk for postpartum nonattendance. Future interventions to improve adequacy of prenatal care can encourage early entry into prenatal care and sufficient prenatal visits. These efforts may improve postpartum care attendance and maternal health.
Efficacy of stabilisation splint and low‐level laser therapy for patients with chronic closed lock from non‐reducible displaced temporo‐mandibular joint discs: A parallel randomised clinical trial
Authors: El‐Shaheed Noha H. , Mostafa Aisha Z. H. , Aboelez Marwa A.
Published: December 2022

Background

Stabilisation splint therapy (SST) and low‐level laser therapy (LLLT) are effective‐invasive treatment for temporo‐mandibular disorder (TMD) patients. However, the specific efficacy of each therapy in patients with chronic closed lock (CCL) from temporo‐mandibular joints (TMJ) disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR) remains unknown.

Objectives

The aim of this study was to assess and compare the efficacy of SST and LLLT alone or in combination in patients with CCL from TMJ DDwoR.

Methods

This parallel randomised clinical trial included 42 patients who were diagnosed with CCL from TMJ DDwoR. Patients were allocated equally and randomly into three treatment groups: group I received combined SST and LLLT, group II received LLLT and group III received SST. Maximum mouth opening (MMO), visual analogue scale (VAS), muscle and joint palpation scores and time required to achieve normal state were evaluated at baseline, 1, 2, 4 weeks, 3 and 6 months after the intervention. Data were collected and analysed using SPSS software.

Results

Regarding MMO and VAS, a statistically significant improvement was found between group I versus group II and versus group III at all evaluation times. Regarding muscle and joint palpation scores, a statistically significant difference was found between group I versus group III, while non‐significant difference was found between group I and group II. A statistically significant faster improvement was found in group I versus group III and versus group II.

Conclusion

All treatment modalities can be effective in management of CCL from a TMJ DDwoR cases, but the combined SST and LLLT group seems to provide the best and quickest improvement.

Clinical trial registration number: NCT05548894.
FGFR1 is an important prognostic factor in oral leukoplakia and tongue squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Mariz Bruno Augusto Linhares Almeida , Sales de Sá Raísa , Araújo Anna Luiza Damaceno , Fernandes Carla Isabelly Rodrigues , Mariano Fernanda Viviane , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger , Lopes Marcio Ajudarte , Vargas Pablo Agustin , de Almeida Oslei Paes , Kowalski Luiz Paulo , Jorge Jacks
Published: December 2022

Background

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 is a potential prognostic factor for tongue squamous cell carcinoma and is associated with oral epithelial dysplasia grade in oral leukoplakia.

Methods

Thirty cases of tongue squamous cell carcinoma and 30 cases of oral leukoplakia were analyzed. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 and phosphorylated Akt protein expression were analyzed by immunohistochemistry and quantified using a digital algorithm. Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 gene amplification was analyzed by fluorescent in situ hybridization in the tongue squamous cell carcinoma cases.

Results

Clinical appearance and dysplasia grade were correlated with oral leukoplakia malignant transformation. Oral leukoplakia cases presenting high fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 expression showed a higher risk of malignant transformation (p = 0.016, HR: 7.3, 95% CI: 1.4–37.4). Phosphorylated Akt showed faint to no expression in oral leukoplakia, which did not correlate with dysplasia grade or malignant transformation. High expression of fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 and phosohorylated Akt were associated with poor overall survival and disease‐free survival in tongue squamous cell carcinoma, although only fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 expression was significantly associated with poor overall survival (p = 0.024; HR: 4.9, 95% CI: 1.2–19.9). Cases presenting double fibroblast growth factor receptor 1/phosphorylated Akt overexpression (n = 8) showed markedly impaired overall survival (p = 0.020; HR: 6.4, 95% CI: 1.3–31.1) and disease‐free survival (p = 0.001, HR: 13.0, 95% CI: 3.0–55.7). Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 amplification was observed in 16.6% of tongue squamous cell carcinoma cases, being correlated with vascular and neural invasion (p = 0.001 and 0.017, respectively), but not with fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 protein expression, overall survival, or disease‐free survival.

Conclusion

Fibroblast growth factor receptor 1 protein expression is an important prognostic factor in oral leukoplakia and tongue squamous cell carcinoma.
Hostile home environment predicting early adolescent sexual harassment perpetration and potential school‐related moderators
Authors: Espelage Dorothy L. , Harper Christopher R. , Ingram Katherine M. , Basile Kathleen C. , Leemis Ruth W. , Nickodem Kyle K.
Published: December 2022

Using family systems theory, this longitudinal study of middle school youth examined the effects of abuse, family conflict, and sibling aggression on sexual harassment perpetration (N = 1563; Mage 11.2, 51% boys; 39% Hispanic, 29% Black, and 19% White). Boys reported more sexual harassment than girls; perpetration increased for both. The association between a hostile home environment and sexual harassment perpetration was moderated by school experiences. School belonging buffered effects of hostile home environment on baseline sexual harassment perpetration for boys who experienced abuse and White adolescents with high sibling aggression. Academic grades moderated change in perpetration over time, but effects differed by sex and race. It is important to understand how early violence exposures relate to sexual violence perpetration during early adolescence.
Emergency powers, anti‐corruption, and policy failures during the COVID‐19 pandemic in Puerto Rico
Authors: Atiles Jose
Published: December 2022

This paper explores how the use of emergency powers by the US and Puerto Rican governments exacerbated the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic and manufactured the conditions for furthering the multilayered economic, legal, political, and humanitarian crisis affecting Puerto Rico since 2006. The paper discusses three cases. First, it examines how the multiple declarations of the state of emergency, and its constant renewals, produced contradictory public health policies. Since the start of the COVID‐19 pandemic in March 2020, the Puerto Rican government has issued over 90 executive orders aimed at addressing the emergency, producing an unclear, contradictory, and unequal emergency management policy. Second, the paper focuses on the impact of the passing of Law 35 on April 5, 2020, which imposed severe penalties on those who disobeyed executive orders. As a result, hundreds of Puerto Ricans were arrested, fined, and incarcerated for violating the issued order. Third, the paper studies how, citing the presence of corruption, the Puerto Rican government implemented anti‐corruption and anti‐fraud policies that made it more difficult for those most in need of it—mainly poor and racialized individuals, as well as immigrants and working women—to access Pandemic Unemployment Assistance. Thus, the paper argues that emergency policies designed to address the pandemic, punitive governance, and anti‐corruption and anti‐fraud policies undermined Puerto Rico's capacity to handle the pandemic, exacerbated its impact, and created an unequal recovery scenario.
Trends in prevalence of probable fibrotic non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis in the United States, 1999–2016
Authors: Ciardullo Stefano , Perseghin Gianluca
Published: December 2022

Data are limited on the epidemiology of fibrotic non‐alcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). We applied the recently proposed Fibrotic NASH Index (FNI) to estimate trends in the prevalence of probable fibrotic NASH in the general United States population using data from the 1999–2016 cycles of the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey. A total of 40 273 participants aged 20 years and older were included in the analysis. The prevalence of probable fibrotic NASH (FNI ≥0.33) in the overall population was 8.4% (95% CI 8.0–8.8), with higher values found in males and in Hispanic participants. It increased from 6.9% (95% CI 6.3–7.6) in 1999–2004 to 9.2% (95% CI 8.4–10.0) in 2011–2016. This positive trend was evident in both sexes and in participants with obesity and diabetes. Finally, it increased progressively with increasing age, body mass index and worse glucose tolerance. NASH prevalence is increasing in the general US population, synchronous with increasing rates of obesity and type 2 diabetes.
Alternate reservoir operating policies for Lake Victoria in East Africa: A framework for balancing transboundary and local water demands
Authors: Kikoyo Duncan , Wurbs Ralph , Ale Srinivasulu , Smith Patricia
Published: December 2022

The reliability and impact of several regulation policies on Lake Victoria in East Africa were investigated using the Water Rights Analysis Package (WRAP). Its reliability is determined by establishing the risk of policies failing to meet water demands. The impacts on the lake are evaluated by assessing the effect of policies for lake levels. Policies are based on (i) the lake's firm and safe water yields and (ii) dam turbine configurations at the lake's outlet. The present study demonstrated the applicability of WRAP in modelling large complex reservoirs and determined that constant release policies with a maximum limit of 1015 m3/s have low risks of failure and improve lake water‐level stability.
Measuring Writing Development and Proficiency Gains Using Indices of Lexical and Syntactic Complexity: Evidence From Longitudinal Russian Learner Corpus Data
Authors: KISSELEV OLESYA , SOYAN ROSSINA , PASTUSHENKOV DMITRII , MERRILL JASON
Published: December 2022

Linguistic complexity serves as an important measure of second language (L2) writing development. Complexity indices, however, rarely feature in the studies of learner languages other than English. Additionally, L2 writing studies have been criticized for the lack of consistency in defining proficiency. The current study addresses these gaps by exploring writing development in a less commonly studied language (i.e., Russian) while paying attention to the operationalization of proficiency. We analyzed lexical and syntactic complexity indices in a corpus of essays written by learners at different levels at the beginning and the end of an instructional program. Our analyses demonstrate that 9 complexity indices (i.e., mean word length, type–token ratio, percentage of high‐frequency words, mean sentence length, clauses per sentence, syntactic depth, proportion of subordinate clauses, and proportion of relative clauses) changed significantly over the course of the program; the same 9 indices showed significant correlation with the initial curricular placement, and all—with the exception of clauses per sentence—modestly or highly correlated with the final rating on the proficiency test. The findings confirm the usefulness of complexity measures in tracking writing development in L2 Russian.
Metabolic and phenotypic plasticity may contribute for the higher virulence of Trichosporon asahii over other Trichosporonaceae members
Authors: de Andrade Iara Bastos , Figueiredo‐Carvalho Maria Helena Galdino , Chaves Alessandra Leal da Silva , Coelho Rowena Alves , Almeida‐Silva Fernando , Zancopé‐Oliveira Rosely Maria , Frases Susana , Brito‐Santos Fábio , Almeida‐Paes Rodrigo
Published: December 2022

Background

The Trichosporonaceae family comprises a large number of basidiomycetes widely distributed in nature. Some of its members, especially Trichosporon asahii, have the ability to cause human infections. This ability is related to a series of virulence factors, which include lytic enzymes production, biofilm formation, resistance to oxidising agents, melanin and glucuronoxylomannan in the cell wall, metabolic plasticity and phenotypic switching. The last two are poorly addressed within human pathogenic Trichosporonaceae.

Objective

These factors were herein studied to contribute with the knowledge of these emerging pathogens and to uncover mechanisms that would explain the higher frequency of T. asahii in human infections.

Methods

We included 79 clinical isolates phenotypically identified as Trichosporon spp. and performed their molecular identification. Lactate and N‐acetyl glucosamine were the carbon sources of metabolic plasticity studies. Morphologically altered colonies after subcultures and incubation at 37°C indicated phenotypic switching.

Results and Conclusion

The predominant species was T. asahii (n = 65), followed by Trichosporon inkin (n = 4), Apiotrichum montevideense (n = 3), Trichosporon japonicum (n = 2), Trichosporon faecale (n = 2), Cutaneotrichosporon debeurmannianum (n = 1), Trichosporon ovoides (n = 1) and Cutaneotrichosporon arboriforme (n = 1). T. asahii isolates had statistically higher growth on lactate and N‐acetylglucosamine and on glucose during the first 72 h of culture. T. asahii, T. inkin and T. japonicum isolates were able to perform phenotypic switching. These results expand the virulence knowledge of Trichosporonaceae members and point for a role for metabolic plasticity and phenotypic switching on the trichosporonosis pathogenesis.
Gender and socioeconomic disparities in global burden of chronic kidney disease due to glomerulonephritis: A global analysis
Authors: Bai Jiang , Yang Jing‐Yuan , Di Jing‐Kai , Shi Ya‐Ru , Zhang Jun‐Rui , Zhou Yun
Published: December 2022

Aim

To investigate the gender and socioeconomic disparities in the global burden of chronic kidney disease (CKD) due to glomerulonephritis from 1990 to 2019.

Methods

Data were extracted from the global burden of diseases (GBD) 2019 study, including incidence, prevalence and disability‐adjusted life‐years (DALYs). Estimated annual percentage changes (EAPCs) were calculated to quantify the temporal trends in age‐standardized rate (ASR) of CKD due to glomerulonephritis. Paired t‐test, paired Wilcoxon signed‐rank test and Spearman correlation were performed to analyse the association and gender disparity in CKD due to glomerulonephritis.

Results

Globally, incident cases of CKD due to glomerulonephritis increased 81% from 9 557 397 in 1990 to 17 308 071 in 2019. The age‐standardized incidence rate increased by 1.47 compared with 1990 and DALYs increased by 1.35 compared with 1990 (per 100 000). The number of patients with CKD due to glomerulonephritis in low‐middle SDI (3829917) and middle SDI (6268817) regions accounts for more than 55% of the total cases. CKD due to glomerulonephritis caused a higher burden including the incidence rate (p < .0001) and DALY rate (p < .0001) in men compared to women. The age‐standardized DALY rate was negatively correlated with SDI (ρ = −0.64, p < .001). In the analysis of risk factors for DALYs, male individuals had a larger burden of hypertension, high BMI and high sodium diet in the DALY rates than female subjects.

Conclusion

The burden of CKD due to glomerulonephritis was more skewed towards developing and less developed economies and differed by gender, so certain nations should implement far more focused and targeted policies.
The DnaJ domain‐containing heat‐shock protein NAL11 determines plant architecture by mediating gibberellin homeostasis in rice (Oryza sativa)
Authors: Luo Lixin , Xie Yuelan , Yu Sijia , Yang Jing , Chen Sirong , Yuan Xi , Guo Tao , Wang Hui , Liu Yongzhu , Chen Chun , Xiao Wuming , Chen Zhiqiang
Published: December 2022

Ideal Plant Architecture 1 (IPA1) is a key regulator of plant architecture. However, knowledge of downstream genes applicable for improving rice plant architecture is very limited.

We identified the plant architecture regulatory gene NARROW LEAF 11 (NAL11), which encodes a heat‐shock protein (HSP) containing a DnaJ domain. A promising rare allele of NAL11 (NAL11−923del−1552) positively selected in Aus cultivars was identified; this allele exhibited increased expression and generated relatively few tillers, thick stems, and large panicles, components of the ideal plant architecture (IPA). NAL11 is involved in regulating the cell cycle and cell proliferation. NAL11 loss‐of‐function mutants present impaired chloroplast development and gibberellin (GA) defects.

Biochemical analyses show that IPA1 directly binds to elements in the missing fragment of the NAL11−923del−1552 promoter and negatively regulates NAL11 expression. Genetic analyses support the hypothesis that NAL11 acts downstream of IPA1 to regulate IPA by modulating GA homeostasis, and NAL11 may be an essential complement for IPA1.

Our work revealed that avoidance of the inhibition of NAL11−923del−1552 caused by IPA1 represents a positive strategy for rescuing GA defects accompanied by the upregulation of IPA1 in breeding high‐yield rice.
Long‐lasting impact of chitooligosaccharide application on strigolactone biosynthesis and fungal accommodation promotes arbuscular mycorrhiza in Medicago truncatula
Authors: Volpe Veronica , Chialva Matteo , Mazzarella Teresa , Crosino Andrea , Capitanio Serena , Costamagna Lorenzo , Kohlen Wouter , Genre Andrea
Published: December 2022

The establishment of arbuscular mycorrhiza (AM) between plants and Glomeromycotina fungi is preceded by the exchange of chemical signals: fungal released Myc‐factors, including chitooligosaccharides (CO) and lipo‐chitooligosaccharides (LCO), activate plant symbiotic responses, while root‐exuded strigolactones stimulate hyphal branching and boost CO release. Furthermore, fungal signaling reinforcement through CO application was shown to promote AM development in Medicago truncatula, but the cellular and molecular bases of this effect remained unclear.

Here, we focused on long‐term M. truncatula responses to CO treatment, demonstrating its impact on the transcriptome of both mycorrhizal and nonmycorrhizal roots over several weeks and providing an insight into the mechanistic bases of the CO‐dependent promotion of AM colonization.

CO treatment caused the long‐lasting regulation of strigolactone biosynthesis and fungal accommodation‐related genes. This was mirrored by an increase in root didehydro‐orobanchol content, and the promotion of accommodation responses to AM fungi in root epidermal cells. Lastly, an advanced downregulation of AM symbiosis marker genes was observed at the latest time point in CO‐treated plants, in line with an increased number of senescent arbuscules.

Overall, CO treatment triggered molecular, metabolic, and cellular responses underpinning a protracted acceleration of AM development.