bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Glutamate dehydrogenase combined with ferrochelatase as a biomarker of liver injury induced by antituberculosis drugs
Authors: He Bei , Cheng Xuan , Xiang Huai‐Rong , Li Yun , Zhang Qi‐Zhi , Peng Wen‐Xing , Yang Bo
Published: June 2023

Aims

To explore the potential value of serum glutamate dehydrogenase (GLDH), ferrochelatase (FECH), heme oxygenase‐1 (HO‐1) and glutathione‐S‐transferase‐α (GST‐α) as diagnostic biomarkers for liver injury caused by antituberculosis drugs.

Methods

We established a rat model of isoniazide‐induced liver injury and recruited 122 hospitalized tuberculosis patients taking antituberculosis drugs. We detected the concentration of GLDH, FECH, HO‐1 and GST‐α by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. GraphPad Prism8 and SPSS 26.0 were used for statistical analysis.

Results

In the rat model, serum GLDH concentration gradually increased during isoniazid (INH) administration, while serum FECH, HO‐1 and GST‐α concentrations significantly increased after INH administration was stopped. The receiver operating characteristic curve showed that the areas under the curve (AUCs) of serum GLDH and FECH for the diagnosis of anti‐tuberculosis (TB) drug‐induced liver injury (anti‐TB‐DILI) were 0.7692 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.5442‐0.9943) and 0.7284 (95% CI 0.4863‐0.9705) and the diagnostic accuracies were 81.25% and 78.79%, respectively. In clinical research, the AUCs of GLDH and FECH were 0.9124 (95% CI 0.8380‐0.9867) and 0.6634 (95% CI 0.5391‐0.7877), and the optimal thresholds were 10.40 mIU/mL and 1.304 ng/mL, respectively. The diagnostic accuracy, specificity and positive predictive value (PPV) of GLDH were 82.61%, 79.38% and 47.22%. We performed a joint diagnostic test for GLDH and FECH. The diagnostic accuracy (90.43%), specificity (91.75%) and PPV (65.21%) of serial tests were better than for GLDH and FECH alone.

Conclusions

GLDH in the diagnosis of liver injury induced by anti‐TB drugs has high sensitivity, but low specificity and low PPV. The combination of GLDH and FECH could significantly improve the specificity, PPV and diagnostic accuracy, and reduce the false‐positive rate of anti‐TB‐DILI.
G protein‐coupled receptor modulation of striatal dopamine transmission: Implications for psychoactive drug effects
Authors: Littlepage‐Saunders Mydirah , Hochstein Michael J. , Chang Doris S. , Johnson Kari A.
Published: June 2023

Dopamine transmission in the striatum is a critical mediator of the rewarding and reinforcing effects of commonly misused psychoactive drugs. G protein‐coupled receptors (GPCRs) that bind a variety of neuromodulators including dopamine, endocannabinoids, acetylcholine and endogenous opioid peptides regulate dopamine release by acting on several components of dopaminergic circuitry. Striatal dopamine release can be driven by both somatic action potential firing and local mechanisms that depend on acetylcholine released from striatal cholinergic interneurons. GPCRs that primarily regulate somatic firing of dopamine neurons via direct effects or modulation of synaptic inputs are likely to affect distinct aspects of behaviour and psychoactive drug actions compared with those GPCRs that primarily regulate local acetylcholine‐dependent dopamine release in striatal regions. This review will highlight mechanisms by which GPCRs modulate dopaminergic transmission and the relevance of these findings to psychoactive drug effects on physiology and behaviour.
The severity of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in K18‐hACE2 mice is attenuated by a novel steroid‐derivative in a gender‐specific manner
Authors: Gupte Sachin A. , Bakshi Chandra Shekhar , Blackham Emma , Duhamel Gerald E. , Jordan Allan , Salgame Padmini , D'silva Melinee , Khan Mohammad Y. , Nadler Jerry , Gupte Rakhee
Published: June 2023

Background and Purpose

COVID‐19 infections caused by SARS‐CoV‐2 disseminated through human‐to‐human transmission can evoke severe inflammation. Treatments to reduce the SARS‐CoV‐2‐associated inflammation are needed and are the focus of much research. In this study, we investigated the effect of N‐ethyl‐N′‐[(3β,5α)‐17‐oxoandrostan‐3‐yl] urea (NEOU), a novel 17α‐ketosteroid derivative, on the severity of COVID‐19 infections.

Experimental Approach

Studies were conducted in SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected K18‐hACE2 mice.

Key Results

SARS‐CoV‐2‐infected K18‐hACE2 mice developed severe inflammatory crises and immune responses along with up‐regulation of genes in associated signalling pathways in male more than female mice. Notably, SARS‐CoV‐2 infection down‐regulated genes encoding drug metabolizing cytochrome P450 enzymes in male but not female mice. Treatment with NEOU (1 mg·kg−1·day−1) 24 or 72 h post‐viral infection alleviated lung injury by decreasing expression of genes encoding inflammatory cytokines and chemokines while increasing expression of genes encoding immunoglobins. In situ hybridization using RNA scope™ probes and immunohistochemical assays revealed that NEOU increased resident CD169+ immunoregulatory macrophages and IBA‐1 immunoreactive macrophage‐dendritic cells within alveolar spaces in the lungs of infected mice. Consequentially, NEOU reduced morbidity more prominently in male than female mice. However, NEOU increased median survival time and accelerated recovery from infection by 6 days in both males and females.

Conclusions and Implications

These findings demonstrate that SARS‐CoV‐2 exhibits gender bias by differentially regulating genes encoding inflammatory cytokines, immunogenic factors and drug‐metabolizing enzymes, in male versus female mice. Most importantly, we identified a novel 17α‐ketosteroid that reduces the severity of COVID‐19 infection and could be beneficial for reducing impact of COVID‐19.
Changes in alveolar bone width around maxillary implants, as determined through cone beam computed tomography based on bony landmarks: A preliminary study
Authors: Lin Szu‐Wei , Hu Kai‐Fang , Lin Ying‐Chu , Liu Pei‐Feng , Chou Yu‐Hsiang
Published: June 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate changes in alveolar bone width around dental implants and identify the anterior nasal spine (ANS), posterior nasal spine (PNS), and floor of the nasal cavity that can be used as reference landmarks for standardizing the orientation of different cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans.

Materials and methods

We enrolled two groups that comprised 30 implants. Two CBCT scans from the same patient after implant surgery in the first group were obtained to determine differences in the relative distance and angle between the ANS and apex of the dental implant. Then we compared the second group of patients’ presurgical and postsurgical CBCT images to evaluate changes in alveolar bone width after dental implant surgery by the aforementioned bony landmarks.

Results

In the first group, no statistically significant differences were detected in the mean distance between the ANS, PNS and implant tip in different directions. In the second group, bone width increased at 1 mm (p = 0.020) and decreased at 4 mm (p < 0.001) and 7 mm (p < 0.001) below the alveolar bone crest after implant surgery.

Conclusions

Within the limitations of the present study, the ANS, PNS, and floor of the nasal cavity can be useful in standardizing the orientation of CBCT scans and alveolar bone remodeling after implant surgery varied depending on the height and direction from the alveolar bone crest based on the three landmarks.
Region‐wide retreats from lower elevations of range‐restricted birds across the Northern Andes
Authors: Medina Wilderson , Huang Ryan M. , Pimm Stuart L.
Published: June 2023

Local studies show upslope shifts in the distribution of tropical birds in response to warming temperatures. Unanswered is whether these upward shifts occur regionally across many species. We considered a nearly 2000‐km length of the Northern Andes, where deforestation, temperature, and extreme weather events have increased during the past decades. Range‐restricted bird species are particularly vulnerable to such events and occur in exceptionally high numbers in this region. Using abundant crowd‐sourced data from the Cornell Lab of Ornithology database, eBird, and the Global Biodiversity Information Facility, we documented distributions of nearly 200 such species. We examined whether species shifted their elevational ranges over time by comparing observed versus expected occurrences below a low elevational threshold and above a high elevational threshold for 2 periods: before and after 2005. We predicted fewer observations at lower elevations (those below the threshold) and more at upper elevations (those above the threshold) after 2005. We also tested for deforestation effects at lower elevations within each species’ distribution ranges. We compared relative forest loss with the differences between observed and expected occurrences across the elevational range. Species’ retreats from lower elevations were ubiquitous and involved a 23–40% decline in prevalence at the lowest elevations. Increases at higher elevations were not consistent. The retreats occurred across a broad spectrum of species, from predominantly lowland to predominantly highland. Because deforestation showed no relationship with species retreats, we contend that a warming climate is the most parsimonious explanation for such shifts.
Seeking shelter in times of crisis? unemployment, perceived job insecurity and trade union membership
Authors: Chadi Adrian , Goerke Laszlo
Published: June 2023

Do trade unions benefit from economic crises by attracting new members among workers concerned about job security? To address this question, we provide a comprehensive empirical investigation based on panel data from Germany, where workers decide individually on their membership. We analyse whether exogenously manipulated perceptions of job insecurity encourage individuals to join a trade union. Firm‐level workforce reductions serve as the first trigger of perceived job insecurity. Regional unemployment rates represent a second source of exogenous variation. Third, we propose a novel identification approach based on plant‐closure‐induced job losses of other workers in the same region. In each case, we exploit the longitudinal nature of the data to analyse the implications of changes in labour market conditions for changes in union membership using an instrumental variable approach. We find consistently that perceived job insecurity, as triggered by labour market turmoil, increases the likelihood of individual union membership. Analysing data on media coverage about downsizing in a complementary investigation, we add further evidence to the notion of trade unions as beneficiaries of labour market crises. Finally, we consider workers who lose their jobs and find no evidence of adverse effects on union membership among those affected directly by unemployment.
True relationship between tricuspid annular motion and velocity displacement components: Potential role in assessing right ventricular decoupling
Authors: López‐Candales Angel , Gunta Satya Preetham , Vallurupalli Srikanth
Published: June 2023

Background

Although measures of longitudinal displacement of the tricuspid annulus measured by M‐mode as tricuspid annular systolic plane excursion (TAPSE) and systolic velocity by tissue Doppler imaging (TA TDI s) are routinely used for assessment of right ventricular (RV) systolic function; these measures describe different phenomena and should not be used interchangeably.

Methods

Previously published data was used to determine the individual relationship between TAPSE and TA TDI s with increasing pulmonary artery systolic pressures (PASP).

Results

In this retrospective analysis, 488 patients were divided into 2 groups based on TAPSE (Group 1: <1.8 cm and Group 2: ≥1.8 cm). A robust correlation (R = .79) between TAPSE and TA TDI s noted for the entire population. However, a statistically lower correlation (R = .43) was seen between Group 1 and Group 2 (R = .65; p < .0047). With increasing pulmonary pressures, only PASP (p < .0001) and TA TDI s (p < .0001) discriminated between low and normal TAPSE/PASP values. Suggesting that a TA TDI s/PASP ratio would be most useful than TAPSE/PASP with a specificity of 80%.

Conclusions

Significant differences exist between TAPSE and TA TDI s, particularly at low TAPSE values with increased PASP, were uncoupling occurs. Our data seems to suggest that TA TDI s/PASP would be most useful than TAPSE/PASP ratio. Future studies should address, if abnormalities in the material properties along the RV free wall account for these differences seen between TAPSE and TA TDI s.
Informing youth‐centred opioid agonist treatment: Findings from a retrospective chart review of youths' characteristics and patterns of opioid agonist treatment engagement in a novel integrated youth services program
Authors: McInerney Kelly , Marchand Kirsten , Buckley Jennifer , Gao Chloe , Kestler Andrew , Mathias Steve , Argyle Aubree , Barbic Skye
Published: June 2023

Aim

Youth ages 12–24 account for approximately 20% of overdoses and yet are poorly reached by opioid agonist treatment (OAT), the most widely recommended treatment for opioid use disorder (OUD). This study contributes to understanding this critical gap by describing youths' patterns of OAT engagement at a novel integrated youth‐specific OAT program.

Methods

A retrospective chart review was carried out on electronic medical records of n = 23 youth with OUD accessing a community‐based integrated youth services (IYS) centre. Data abstraction focused on four domains: sociodemographic, social determinants of health, patterns of OAT engagement, and other services utilized.

Results

Youths' mean age was 22.6 years (SD = 2.1), with a mean age of first opioid use of 17.4 (SD = 2.7). Youth reported extensive histories of adverse childhood experiences, concurrent mental and physical health complications, and poly‐substance use. All youth were offered OAT and 83% initiated treatment with buprenorphine/naloxone, methadone, or slow‐release oral morphine. Among those initiating OAT, 42.1% were considered stable on OAT.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first empirical study to describe youths' OAT engagement in an integrated youth‐specific OAT program. Our findings demonstrated that a high proportion of youth with OUD initiated OAT in this novel program with varying degrees of OAT stability. These findings can be used to inform the development and implementation of youth‐specific and integrated OAT. To account for the novelty of this area of study and small sample sizes, future collaborative efforts across IYS initiatives should be considered, including mixed method approaches to understand outcomes and experiences.
There’s an app for that: Modernizing domestic violence support through the creation of new technologies, tools, and services
Authors: Case Nicole
Published: June 2023

With domestic violence (DV) at an all‐time high, police departments are drastically underutilizing technology to combat DV. Currently, New York police departments complete a “Domestic Incident Report” at the scene of domestic incidents but fail to adequately facilitate support services. New York State should mandate a services component into police DV protocols, specifically by commissioning: (1) an application linked to DV organizations presented at the scene of domestic incidents; and (2) a gateway application to refer victims to the correct services. Such tools would allow for the rendering of more efficient support to DV victims in times of immediate crisis.
Microstructure and rolling contact fatigue behavior of martensitic nodular cast irons with different graphite sizes and densities
Authors: Bai Jiaojiao , Cao Ziyuan , Xu Haifeng , Wang Cunyu , Chen Xingpin , Cao Wenquan , Zhang Xiaodan , Xu Yang
Published: June 2023

Martensitic nodular cast irons (MNCIs) with different graphite sizes and number densities are produced through continuous casting and cyclic heat treatments to refine their microstructures and to obtain a hardness of 60 HRC, and their rolling contact fatigue (RCF) properties, fractography, and subsurface microstructures have been investigated in the present study. RCF tests show that the RCF life is mainly determined by the applied Hertzian stress. Based on the calculation of characteristic parameter size and the analysis of stress concentration factor, it is found that the lower nodularity rate of graphite brings about the larger stress concentration at matrix‐graphite interfaces. This stress concentration induces a debonding of the matrix and graphite, cracks, deformation, and carbon redistribution in a local volume, which results in the formation of a white etching area. The present study indicates that MNCIs are a potential material for lubricant‐free bearings after chemical homogenization, microstructure refinement, and hardness enhancement.
Above and belowground litter decomposition of cover crops grazed at different intensities
Authors: Santos Erick R. S. , Dubeux José C. B. , Mackowiak Cheryl , Sollenberger Lynn E. , Farias Gustavo D. , Homem Bruno G. C. , Jaramillo David M. , Zagato Luana Q. S. D. , Dantas Queiroz Luana M. , Wright David L. , DiLorenzo Nicolas , Ruiz‐Moreno Martin
Published: June 2023

Grazing cover crops may increase land‐use efficiency while promoting sustainability. We investigated how grazing intensity affects cover crop litter quantity, quality, decomposition, and cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) N uptake. Cover crops were a mixture of rye (Secale cereale L.) and oat (Avena sativa L.) managed as follows: no grazing +34 kg N ha−1 (NG34), no grazing +90 kg N ha−1 (NG90), heavy grazing (HG), moderate grazing (MG), and light grazing (LG). Grazed treatments received 90 kg N ha−1. After cover crop termination, above‐ and belowground litter was collected and incubated in situ for 0, 4, 8, 16, 32, 64, and 128 days, with cotton plants sampled on the same days to estimate N recovery and synchrony between N release from litter and uptake by cotton. By Day 128, only 13% of initial NG34 aboveground biomass had disappeared, whereas 42% of HG disappeared. Nitrogen retained in aboveground litter of HG was less than NG90 (27 vs. 60 kg N ha−1), and aboveground final N stock (at Day 128) of HG was less than NG90 and LG (16, 47, and 41 kg N ha−1, respectively). Belowground litter contributed 98 kg N ha−1 versus 46 for aboveground. Belowground N disappearance from litter bags was greater from NG90 than NG34 (39 vs. 21 kg N ha−1). Cotton N uptake by Day 128 was similar across treatments (191 kg N ha−1). Grazing cover crops impact aboveground litter quantity, quality, and decomposition rates, and belowground litter plays an important role on the N cycling.
6‐Mercaptopurine potently inhibits recruitment of SHP2 by phosphorylated PD‐1 to inhibit PD‐1 signalling and enhance T cell function
Authors: Liu Lu , Lei Yuxi , Zheng Zongyao , Zhou Xingang , Chen Shuzhen , Zeng Guandi , Yu Lei , Wang Peng , Chen Liang
Published: June 2023

Antibody inhibitors that block PD‐1/PD‐L1 interaction have been approved for oncological clinics, yielding impressive treatment effects. Small molecules inhibiting PD‐1 signalling are at various stages of development, given that small molecular drugs are expected to outperform protein drugs in several ways. Currently, a significant portion of these small molecular inhibitors achieve this purpose by binding to a limited region of the PD‐L1 protein, thereby limiting the choice of chemical structures. Alternative strategies for developing small‐molecular PD‐1 inhibitors are urgently needed to broaden the choice of chemical structures. Here, we report that 6‐mercaptopurine (6‐MP) inhibits PD‐1 signalling, activates T cell function in vitro and in vivo and shrinks tumours by activating cytotoxic T cells. Mechanistically, 6‐MP potently inhibited PD‐1 signalling by blocking the recruitment of SHP2 by PD‐1. Considering that 6‐MP is a chemotherapeutic agent already approved by the FDA for childhood leukaemia, our work revealed a novel anti‐tumour mechanism for this drug and suggests that 6‐MP warrants further clinical evaluation for other tumour types.
Evidence that flatheaded mayflies (Heptageniidae) serve as the likely paratenic host for Chordodes morgani (Nematomorpha) in Nebraska
Authors: Shea John F. , Sniezek Anna , Marchant James
Published: June 2023

Hairworms (Nematomorpha) have indirect life cycles that require a terrestrial arthropod definitive host and an aquatic arthropod host that serves as a paratenic host, transferring the hairworm from the aquatic to the terrestrial environment. The life cycles for most hairworms remain unknown, especially the paratenic host. The hairworm Chordodes morgani lays its eggs on sticks, which are susceptible to the activity of aquatic insects such as larvae of the flatheaded mayfly (Heptageniidae), which feed by scraping algae and detritus. To test the likelihood that scrapers serve as the paratenic host for C. morgani, we collected sticks and their accompanying invertebrates from three sites near Lincoln, NE. We noted the presence of eggs of C. morgani on each stick, placed them in labeled resealable bags, and examined the invertebrates microscopically for the presence of hairworm cysts. We predicted that scrapers found on sticks with eggs of C. morgani will harbor the highest number of cysts. To confirm that larvae of the flatheaded mayfly serve as the aquatic host, we fed field‐collected specimens to three captive‐reared wood roaches (Parcoblatta pensylvanica). Of the three exposed roaches, one yielded nine individuals of C. morgani 63 days after exposure. Understanding the life cycle of this horsehair worm will allow researchers to rear the species in the lab, which could become a model for parasite research.
Character Strengths Use in Diabetes Self‐management Scale: Development and psychometric testing
Authors: Wang Ruey‐Hsia , Kao Chia‐Chan , Su Yi‐Ching , Chen Shi‐Yu , Hsu Hui‐Chun , Lu Chieh‐Hua , Jone Kuen‐Yung
Published: June 2023

Aims

To develop and psychometrically test Character Strengths Use in Diabetes Self‐management Scale in people with type 2 diabetes.

Design

Cross‐sectional design.

Methods

Based on literature reviews and examination by experts, a 20‐item scale was developed and administered to 350 participants with type 2 diabetes who were enrolled from two endocrine clinics by convenience sampling in Taiwan. Item analysis, exploratory factor analysis (EFA), confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), concurrent and predictive validity as well as reliability were used to examine the psychometric characteristics of the scale. Data were collected from November 2021 to March 2022.

Results

EFA and CFA supported a 12‐item scale with three factors, namely learning proactively, taking on challenges and thinking positively, fit the data well. The total score of the 12‐item scale significantly and positively correlated with diabetes‐specific quality of life, and significantly and negatively correlated with baseline and 9‐month haemoglobin A1c levels. Cronbach's α for overall scale and subscales ranged between .78 and .91.

Conclusion

The 12‐item Character Strengths Use in Diabetes Self‐management Scale demonstrated satisfactory validity and reliability in people with type 2 diabetes.

Impact

Nurses could apply this new scale to identify the degree of using character strengths in self‐management in people with type 2 diabetes; accordingly, character strength‐based interventions could be provided to improve self‐management in such patients with diabetes. Furthermore, the 12‐item Character Strengths Use in Diabetes Self‐management Scale has the potential to be used to measure the effectiveness of strength‐based interventions in people with Type 2 diabetes.

Patient or Public Contribution

Five patients with type 2 diabetes were invited to take the original 20‐item scale to evaluate the clarity, readability and comprehensiveness of the 20 items.
Kindergarten conduct problems are associated with monetized outcomes in adolescence and adulthood
Authors: Goulter Natalie , Hur Yoon S. , Jones Damon E. , Godwin Jennifer , McMahon Robert J. , Dodge Kenneth A. , Lansford Jennifer E. , Lochman John E. , Bates John E. , Pettit Gregory S. , Crowley D. Max
Published: June 2023

Background

Across several sites in the United States, we examined whether kindergarten conduct problems among mostly population‐representative samples of children were associated with increased criminal and related (criminal + lost offender productivity + victim; described as criminal + victim hereafter) costs across adolescence and adulthood, as well as government and medical services costs in adulthood.

Methods

Participants (N = 1,339) were from two multisite longitudinal studies: Fast Track (n = 754) and the Child Development Project (n = 585). Parents and teachers reported on kindergarten conduct problems, administrative and national database records yielded indexes of criminal offending, and participants self‐reported their government and medical service use. Outcomes were assigned costs, and significant associations were adjusted for inflation to determine USD 2020 costs.

Results

A 1SD increase in kindergarten conduct problems was associated with a $21,934 increase in adolescent criminal + victim costs, a $63,998 increase in adult criminal + victim costs, a $12,753 increase in medical services costs, and a $146,279 increase in total costs. In the male sample, a 1SD increase in kindergarten conduct problems was associated with a $28,530 increase in adolescent criminal + victim costs, a $58,872 increase in adult criminal + victim costs, and a $144,140 increase in total costs. In the female sample, a 1SD increase in kindergarten conduct problems was associated with a $15,481 increase in adolescent criminal + victim costs, a $62,916 increase in adult criminal + victim costs, a $24,105 increase in medical services costs, and a $144,823 increase in total costs.

Conclusions

This investigation provides evidence of the long‐term costs associated with early‐starting conduct problems, which is important information that can be used by policymakers to support research and programs investing in a strong start for children.
Mechanism of action of chlormethine gel in mycosis fungoides
Authors: Guenova E. , Ortiz‐Romero P. L. , Poligone B. , Querfeld C.
Published: June 2023

Mycosis fungoides (MF), the most common type of cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma, is characterized by proliferation of malignant skin‐tropic T cells. Progression from early‐stage disease (skin patches and/or plaques) to more advanced stages (cutaneous tumours, erythroderma or extracutaneous involvement) occurs slowly and can be discontinuous. Prognosis is poor for the ~25% of patients who progress to advanced disease. Patients at any stage of MF may experience reduced health‐related quality of life (QoL) via a spectrum of physically and psychologically debilitating symptoms that can impact many aspects of daily life. Allogeneic stem‐cell transplantation is a curative treatment option for some patients with advanced disease, but otherwise there is currently no cure for MF; patients are often refractory to several treatments and require lifelong management. The goals of therapy are symptom control, prevention of disease progression, avoidance of treatment‐related toxicity and maintenance/improvement of QoL. Although treatment regimens exist it can be difficult to know how to prioritize them, hence therapies are tailored according to patient needs and drug availabilities, following clinical recommendations. International consensus guidelines recommend skin‐directed therapies (SDTs) as first‐line treatment for early‐stage disease, and SDTs combined with systemic therapy for advanced stages. Chlormethine (CL), also known as mechlorethamine, chlorethazine, mustine, HN2, caryolysine and embichin, is a synthetic deoxyribonucleic acid‐alkylating agent that was used as a chemical weapon (mustard gas) during the First World War. Subsequent investigation revealed that survivors of mustard gas exposure had lymphocytopenia, and that CL could inhibit rapidly proliferating malignant T cells. CL has since been developed as a topical treatment for MF and prescribed as such for over 70 years. This review aims to summarize the current knowledge regarding the mechanism of action of CL in the cutaneous micro‐environment, in the specific context of MF treatment.
Exposure to biologic therapy before and during pregnancy in patients with psoriasis: Systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Sánchez‐García V. , Hernández‐Quiles R. , de‐Miguel‐Balsa E. , Giménez‐Richarte Á. , Ramos‐Rincón J. M. , Belinchón‐Romero I.
Published: June 2023

Biologicals have transformed the management of severe disease phenotypes in psoriasis and are often prescribed in women of childbearing age. However, information on safety of biologicals in pregnancy are lacking. We conducted a systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to describe the characteristics and pregnancy outcomes in women with psoriasis exposed to biologics within 3 months before or during pregnancy, and to estimate the pooled prevalence of spontaneous, elective and total abortions, and congenital malformations in their newborns. Bibliographic searches were performed in the PubMed, Embase, Scopus and Web of Science databases up to 14 April 2022. No restrictions on sample size or publication date were applied. Review performance complied with PRISMA guidelines, and two reviewers assessed randomized controlled trials and nonrandomized studies reporting pregnancy outcomes in women exposed to biologics indicated for psoriasis during the pre‐gestational and/or gestational period. Studies focusing on rheumatologic or gastroenterological immune‐mediated inflammatory diseases were excluded. Regardless of data heterogeneity, a random‐effects model was used to pool prevalence estimates. We included 51 observational studies, involving 739 pregnancies exposed to approved biologics for psoriasis. Administration was mostly (70.4%) limited to the first trimester, and the most common drug was ustekinumab (36.0%). The estimated prevalence of miscarriage was 15.3% (95% confidence interval [CI] 12.7–18.0) and elective abortions, 10.8% (95% CI 7.7–14.3). Congenital malformations occurred in about 3.0% (95% CI 1.6–4.8) of live births exposed to biologics during pregnancy. Altogether, exposure to biologics for psoriasis during pregnancy and/or conception does not seem to be associated with an increased risk of miscarriage/abortion or congenital malformations, showing similar rates to the general population. These results suggest that biologic drugs are safe and pose an acceptable risk to the foetuses/neonates.
Interleukin‐37 inhibits desmoglein‐3 endocytosis and keratinocyte dissociation via upregulation of Caveolin‐1 and inhibition of the STAT3 pathway
Authors: Liang Junqin , Hu Fengxia , Mao Lidan , Qiu Yun , Jiang Fanhe , Wang Qian , Abulikemu Kailibinuer , Hong Yongzhen , Ge Xinyu , Kang Xiaojing
Published: June 2023

Background

Pemphigus vulgaris (PV) is a potentially fatal autoimmune bullous disease primarily caused by acantholysis of keratinocytes attributed to pathogenic desmoglein‐3 (Dsg3) autoantibodies. Interleukin‐37 (IL‐37) reportedly plays important roles in a variety of autoimmune diseases, but its role in PV is not clear.

Objectives

To investigate whether IL‐37 plays a role in the occurrence and progression of PV.

Methods

HaCaT keratinocytes were stimulated with anti‐Dsg3 antibody to establish an in vitro PV model, which was defined as anti‐Dsg3 group. Cells incubated with medium without anti‐Dsg3 treatment were used as control. IL‐37 was cultured with these cells infected with or without lentiviral vector shRNA‐Caveolin‐1 (sh‐Cav‐1‐LV). Cell dissociation assay and immunocytofluorescence were performed to assess keratinocyte dissociation, keratin retraction and Dsg3 endocytosis. Real‐time PCR was used to detect the mRNA level of Cav‐1, and western blot was used to determine the protein expression of Cav‐1, Dsg3, STAT3 and phosphorylated‐STAT3 (p‐STAT3).

Results

The anti‐Dsg3 group showed more cell debris, increased keratin retraction, increased Dsg3 endocytosis, reduced Cav‐1 expression and co‐localization than the control group, while IL‐37 treatment neutralized all of these changes. Interestingly, Cav‐1 knockdown supressed the inhibitory effect of IL‐37 on keratinocyte dissociation and Dsg3 internalization. The protein expression of p‐STAT3 was increased in keratinocytes of the PV model but decreased by IL‐37. Re‐activation of the STAT3 pathway by colivelin supressed the inhibitory effect of IL‐37 on keratinocyte dissociation and Dsg3 internalization, along with upregulation of Cav‐1 and Dsg3.

Conclusions

IL‐37 inhibited keratinocyte dissociation and Dsg3 endocytosis in an in vitro PV model through the upregulating Cav‐1 and inhibiting STAT3 pathway.
Characterization of entomopathogenic fungi from invasive fall armyworm in China and their risk to native pests
Authors: Sun Shuai , Zhang Zhichun , Niu Hongtao , Zhao Dongxiao , Liu Xiangdong , Guo Huifang
Published: June 2023

The role of pathogens in the successful invasion of pests has received increasing attention. Previous hypotheses on parasite‐related invasion mainly focus on the lack of parasites against invasive pests or the introduction of parasites with a higher risk to native pests. Fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda (J.E. Smith), is a new invasive pest in China. Here, we investigated pathogen infection in eight natural populations of FAW in China, isolated and characterised the pathogens, and then evaluated the infection risk of the pathogens to native pests. The pathogen infection frequencies in FAW were very low (0.32%); only two individuals were found to have typical symptoms of fungal infection, and the fungi were identified as Beauveria bassiana and Metarhizium rileyi. Internal transcribed spacer sequence‐based analysis showed that among 44 B. bassiana isolates worldwide, the SFJS01 isolate was genetically different from only 3 isolates. Among all 13 isolates of M. rileyi from FAW, including the SFGX01 isolate, there was no significant differentiation. Comparison of the mortality caused by B. bassiana SFJS01 or M. rileyi SFGX01 against S. frugiperda, Spodoptera litura, Bemisia tabaci, Laodelphax striatellus and Nilaparvata lugens showed that the new isolates all had the highest virulence to S. frugiperda and the lowest virulence to S. litura, a native pest closely related to FAW. The findings indicated that pathogens isolated from FAW did not pose a high risk to native pests and that they did not play a key role in the successful invasion of the FAW in China.
Do Economic Sanctions Work? Evidence from the Russia‐Ukraine Conflict
Authors: Gaur Ajai , Settles Alexander , Väätänen Juha
Published: June 2023

This study examines the impact of sanctions on Russian firms and the strategies these firms adopt to counter the effects of targeted sanctions. We utilize institutional theory to explain how firms shape their strategic responses as they balance the institutional pressures from their home environment vis‐à‐vis sanctioning countries. We gather longitudinal data on Russian firms that faced foreign sanctions from the start of the invasion of Crimea in 2014 until 2020. Our empirical analyses indicate that sanctions do not have a persistent negative effect on the economic performance of Russian firms. We discuss the empirical findings with the help of a series of illustrative examples of specific actions that Russian firms undertook in response to the sanctions. We conclude that while targeted sanctions create symbolic meaning in foreign relations and create financial friction for targeted firms, firms use a variety of adaptation strategies that negate the economic impact of these sanctions.
Identifying temporal drivers of product acceptance and rejection across sips during whole product consumption
Authors: Weerawarna N. R. P. Maheeka , Godfrey A. Jonathan R. , Ellis Ashling , Hort Joanne
Published: June 2023

Measuring emotional response gives insights into consumer product experiences beyond liking. However, existing research rarely considers that emotional and hedonic responses can change during consumption of a whole portion. This research considered how well a combined multiple‐sip temporal check‐all‐that‐apply approach captured temporal drivers of product acceptance and rejection. Consumers (n = 104) profiled temporal sensory, liking and emotional responses to three milkshakes. Associations in temporal sensory, liking and emotional response citation pattern across multiple sips were investigated using generalized linear models, analysis of deviance and Pearson's chi‐square test. Differences in the temporal dynamics of sensory, liking and emotional responses and associations between temporal sensory and affective responses were identified highlighting liking and emotional experience were related to the evolution of sensory attributes over time. Notably, sensory associations with emotional responses, including “bored,” “relaxed,” and “satisfied,” were better at identifying temporal drivers of acceptance/rejection more than associations to level of liking.

Practical Applications

The research demonstrated that a combined multiple‐sip temporal check‐all‐that‐apply (TCATA) approach, representing whole product consumption, is an effective approach to gain deeper insights into the sensory drivers of consumer affective response. However, the applicability of analyzing within‐sip variations in perception, and potential to use check all that apply by sip as opposed to TCATA needs to be considered on a product category basis.
Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis of Locked Posterior Dislocation of the Shoulder Treated with Shoulder Arthroplasty: Improved Outcomes for Total Shoulder Arthroplasty are Associated with Increased Age
Authors: Crowley Matthew , Ghattas Yasmine , Collins Andrew P. , Levin Samantha , Service Benjamin C.
Published: June 2023

Locked shoulder dislocations account for up to 5% of shoulder dislocations. These relatively rare injuries are characterized by dislocation of the humeral head from the scapular glenoid cavity with the humeral head incarcerated on the glenoid in a “locked” fashion. Diagnosis is often delayed because of the complexity of clinical presentation and subtle radiographic findings, resulting in locking of the humeral head out of the glenoid cavity with severe functional deficits. Most commonly, there are bony injuries to the glenoid and humeral head that engage and prevent closed reduction. Since few patients present with this injury, evidence‐based treatment guidelines have not been established. The objective of this review is to assess postoperative outcomes following shoulder arthroplasty for locked posterior shoulder dislocations (LPSD) to guide best practices for treatment. This systematic review was conducted following PRISMA guidelines, searching the PubMed and Web of Science databases for original articles assessing outcomes following arthroplasty for locked posterior shoulder dislocations. Seven publications that evaluated 102 patients were included. Additionally, nine case studies were included, assessing 20 shoulder arthroplasties. Overall, the analysis demonstrated significant improvement in shoulder pain following total shoulder arthroplasty (TSA) (P = 0.0003). Older operative patient ages for TSA resulted in significantly improved modified Neer outcomes scores and patient satisfaction compared to younger patients (P = 0.047). A positive correlation was noted for the duration of dislocation and necessity for revision surgery following hemiarthroplasty (HSA) and TSA combined and TSA separately. The risk ratios assessing the incidence of postoperative complications (RR = 0.56, 95% CI = 0.28–1.11) and necessity for revision surgery (RR = 0.58, 95% CI = 0.24–1.39) were insignificant but noted outcomes favoring TSA. Data from the included studies show that both TSA and HSA are efficacious at treating locked posterior shoulder dislocation. Postoperative outcomes following TSA versus HSA are similar. TSA may be a more efficacious surgical treatment in elderly patients, with improved outcomes and patient satisfaction scores compared to younger patients. Early diagnosis and treatment of posterior locked dislocations may lead to reduced postoperative complications and revision surgery, signaling the importance of proper injury investigation and early treatment. The role of RSA in the management of locked posterior shoulder dislocation remains to be determined, as there is insufficient clinical outcome data currently in the literature.
The Longest Known Follow‐Up of Vitallium Mold Arthroplasty in China: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Leng Junsheng , Peng Huiming , Feng Bin , Weng Xisheng
Published: June 2023

Background

Before the advent of total hip arthroplasty, Vitallium mold arthroplasty had been widely performed. We present a case with a 42‐year follow‐up after Vitallium mold arthroplasty. To our knowledge, this case represents the longest known follow‐up of Vitallium mold arthroplasty in China.

Case presentation

This was a 59‐year‐old male. He underwent Vitallium mold arthroplasty of the left hip 42 years ago because of osteonecrosis of the femoral head. He developed left hip pain 3 months ago and underwent total hip revision surgery. There was some clear synovial fluid in the hip joint. The mold was loosened entirely and taken out effortlessly. Gram‐positive cocci could be observed occasionally in the synovial fluid smear, while the synovial fluid culture was negative. The inflammatory markers elevated perioperatively, and prophylactic cefuroxime and vancomycin were utilized successively. All elevated inflammatory markers fell since postoperative day 5, and there was no other sign of infection. The pain and function of the hip joint improved significantly after surgery.

Conclusions

Although Vitallium mold arthroplasty was inferior to total hip arthroplasty in survival rate and functional outcome, it did provide an excellent long‐term function of the hip joint.
Electrographic flow mapping guided catheter ablation offers advantages for patients with persistent atrial fibrillation
Authors: Gagyi Rita B. , Bhagwandien Rohit E. , Yap Sing‐Chien , Hoogendijk Mark , Wijchers Sip , Szili‐Torok Tamas
Published: June 2023

Background

Catheter ablation (CA) remains challenging due to suboptimal success rates in persistent atrial fibrillation (AF). Existing mapping technologies cannot reliably distinguish sources in this patient population. Recently, the novel electrographic flow (EGF) mapping system was developed using a modified Horn‐Schunk optical flow algorithm to detect and quantify patterns of electrical wavefront propagation in the atria.

Objectives

To test the hypothesis that targeted source ablation based on EGF mapping is superior to empiric AF ablation.

Methods

We included all consecutive patients undergoing EGF guided ablation for persistent AF. All patients underwent pulmonary vein isolation (PVI) and were treated with the same EAM system (CARTO). The outcome of PVI+EGF guided CA was compared with data of PVI‐only procedures (PVI‐only group) and PVI plus additional empiric adjunctive linear and substrate ablations (PVI+LINES group). 12‐months outcome as freedom from AF and atrial tachycardia/flutter (AT/AFL), procedural safety and efficiency characterized by procedure duration, fluoroscopy use, radiofrequency applications and duration, were analyzed. Both intention‐to‐treat and per protocol analysis were conducted.

Results

A total number of 70 patients (39 in PVI+EGF, 16 in PVI‐only and 15 patients in PVI+LINES group) were enrolled. Intention‐to‐treat analysis showed fewer AF recurrences in PVI+EGF as compared with the PVI‐only or PVI+LINES groups at 12 months (25.6% vs. 62.5% vs. 53.3%, p = .02). There were no differences in AT/AFL recurrence (17.9% vs. 37.5% vs. 20.0%, p = .37). Procedure times were longer in PVI+EGF group (p < .01), and there were no differences in fluoroscopy use (p = .67).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that patients treated with EGF‐guided CA developed fewer AF recurrences. Although the procedure times are longer, it seems to be safe and offers a more targeted, patient‐specific ablation strategy beyond PVI than adjunctive empiric lines and substrate ablation in this complex group of patients.
Cranial endocast of Anagale gobiensis (Anagalidae) and its implications for early brain evolution in Euarchontoglires
Authors: López‐Torres Sergi , Bertrand Ornella C. , Lang Madlen M. , Fostowicz‐Frelik Łucja , Silcox Mary T. , Meng Jin
Published: June 2023

Anagalids are an extinct group of primitive mammals from the Asian Palaeogene thought to be possible basal members of Glires. Anagalid material is rare, with only a handful of crania known. Here we describe the first virtual endocast of an anagalid, based on the holotype of Anagale gobiensis (AMNH 26079; late Eocene, China), which allows for comparison with published endocasts from fossil members of modern euarchontogliran lineages (i.e. primates, rodents, lagomorphs). The endocast displays traits often observed in fossorial mammals, such as relatively small petrosal lobules and a low neocortical ratio, which would be consistent with previous inferences about use of subterranean food sources based on heavy dental wear. In fact, Anagale gobiensis has the lowest neocortical ratio yet recorded for a euarchontogliran. This species was olfaction‐driven, based on the relatively large olfactory bulbs and laterally expansive palaeocortex. The endocast supports previous inferences that relatively large olfactory bulbs, partial midbrain exposure and low encephalization quotient are ancestral for Euarchontoglires, although the likely fossorial adaptations of Anagale gobiensis may also partly explain these traits. While Anagale gobiensis is a primitive mammal in many aspects, some of its derived endocranial traits point towards a new, different trajectory of brain evolution within Euarchontoglires.
Transient abdominal telangiectasia of the newborn: Four new cases with abdominal distension
Authors: Cutrone Mario , Van Gysel Dirk
Published: June 2023

Transient abdominal telangiectasia of the newborn (TATN) is a recently described entity. The majority of cases had no specific clinical context or trigger identified, but a minority occurred in the clinical context of transient increased intraabdominal pressure. We report four additional cases of TATN, all in the presence of transient abdominal distension, further supporting the causative relationship of abdominal distension to TATN.
Reducing subgroup differences in personnel selection through the application of machine learning
Authors: Zhang Nan , Wang Mo , Xu Heng , Koenig Nick , Hickman Louis , Kuruzovich Jason , Ng Vincent , Arhin Kofi , Wilson Danielle , Song Q. Chelsea , Tang Chen , Alexander Leo , Kim Yesuel
Published: June 2023

Researchers have investigated whether machine learning (ML) may be able to resolve one of the most fundamental concerns in personnel selection, which is by helping reduce the subgroup differences (and resulting adverse impact) by race and gender in selection procedure scores. This article presents three such investigations. The findings show that the growing practice of making statistical adjustments to (nonlinear) ML algorithms to reduce subgroup differences must create predictive bias (differential prediction) as a mathematical certainty. This may reduce validity and inadvertently penalize high‐scoring racial minorities. Similarly, one approach that adjusts the ML input data only slightly reduces the subgroup differences but at the cost of slightly reduced model accuracy. Other emerging tactics involve weighting predictors to balance or find a compromise between the competing goals of reducing subgroup differences while maintaining validity, but they have been limited to two outcomes. The third investigation extends this to three outcomes (e.g., validity, subgroup differences, and cost) and presents an online tool. Collectively, the studies in this article illustrate that ML is unlikely to be able to resolve the issue of adverse impact, but it may assist in finding incremental improvements.