bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using the learning organization questionnaire in combination with latent profile analysis: an example on how to identify latent classes in an organization to improve learning potential
Authors: Tapak Leili , Hamidi Yadollah , Toosi Zahra
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Learning organization (LO) concept has received much attention in the last decades. The purpose of an LO is to proactively shape its future by fostering a culture of continuous learning among its members. This approach empowers the organization to adapt, evolve and innovate, aligning with the needs and aspirations of both internal and external stakeholders. As a result, the assessment of an organization’s LO level, whether strong or weak, becomes a matter of significance. This study aims to use Senge’s LO Questionnaire (SLOQ) in conjunction with latent profile analysis (LPA) to identify latent classes within the organization. This approach seeks to enhance the organization‘s learning potential and facilitate its evolution.

Design/methodology/approach

This research was a cross-sectional study conducted at Hamadan University of Medical Sciences, Iran. The statistical population consisted of 451 managers and employees across seven departments based at the university headquarters. The sample included 295 individuals, and data was collected using the SLOQ.

Findings

The LPA has shown an excellent accuracy (97%) in identifying SLOQ cut-off points (three classes of good, moderate and low). Most of the participants are considered as a moderate LO (55.9%), which implies the possibility of improving learning, especially enhancing “common vision” and “systemic thinking.” Also, individuals belonging to the high-class category were more likely to be male and hold associate degree than individuals in other categories.

Research limitations/implications

This study depends on self-report, and different perceptions of questions can cause percept bias. Another limitation is about the nature of this research, which is cross-sectional, which may bring back causality among variables. The other is only three demographic variables have been considered, and it is necessary to pay attention to other influential variables in future studies.

Originality/value

The originality of this study lies in its use of the SLOQ in combination with LPA to identify latent classes in an organization to improve learning potentials.
Rapid evolution of consumptive and non‐consumptive predator effects on prey population densities, bioenergetics and stoichiometry
Authors: Zhang Chao , De Meester Luc , Stoks Robby
Published: May 2024

Predators can strongly influence prey populations not only through consumptive effects (CE) but also through non‐consumptive effects (NCE) imposed by predation risk. Yet, the impact of NCE on bioenergetic and stoichiometric body contents of prey, traits that are shaping life histories, population and food web dynamics, is largely unknown. Moreover, the degree to which NCE can evolve and can drive evolution in prey populations is rarely studied.

A 6‐week outdoor mesocosm experiment with Caged‐Fish (NCE) and Free‐Ranging‐Fish (CE and NCE) treatments was conducted to quantify and compare the effects of CE and NCE on population densities, bioenergetic and stoichiometric body contents of Daphnia magna, a keystone species in freshwater ecosystems. We tested for evolution of CE and NCE by using experimental populations consisting of D. magna clones from two periods of a resurrected natural pond population: a pre‐fish period without fish and a high‐fish period with high predation pressure.

Both Caged‐Fish and Free‐Ranging‐Fish treatments decreased the body size and population densities, especially in Daphnia from the high‐fish period. Only the Free‐Ranging‐Fish treatment affected bioenergetic variables, while both the Caged‐Fish and Free‐Ranging‐Fish treatments shaped body stoichiometry. The effects of CE and NCE were different between both periods indicating their rapid evolution in the natural resurrected population. Both the Caged‐Fish and Free‐Ranging‐Fish treatments changed the clonal frequencies of the experimental Daphnia populations of the pre‐fish as well as the high‐fish period, indicating that not only CE but also NCE induced clonal sorting, hence rapid evolution during the mesocosm experiment in both periods.

Our results demonstrate that CE as well as NCE have the potential to change not only the body size and population density but also the bioenergetic and stoichiometric characteristics of prey populations. Moreover, we show that these responses not only evolved in the studied resurrected population, but that CE and NCE also caused differential rapid evolution in a time frame of 6 weeks (ca. four to six generations). As NCE can evolve as well as can drive evolution, they may play an important role in shaping eco‐evolutionary dynamics in predator–prey interactions.
Perpetual banishment: The transcarceral crimmigration case of Mary Masako Akimoto
Authors: Pliley Jessica R.
Published: May 2024

The case of Mary Masako Akimoto illuminates how carceral systems based on immigrant criminalisation, known as crimmigration, intersected with gendered notions of decent and indecent work in 1930s America. Mary Akimoto was deported from the USA in compliance with US anti‐sex trafficking law for the crime of selling sex in a brothel (indecent work). Yet, as part of her rehabilitation or as a requirement of her release in the months and years that followed her initial arrest, she regularly found herself in coerced labour situations engaging in vocations gendered as decent work.
Evaluation of regional variation in racial and ethnic differences in patient experience among Veterans Health Administration primary care users
Authors: Shannon Evan Michael , Jones Kenneth T. , Moy Ernest , Steers W. Neil , Toyama Joy , Washington Donna L.
Published: May 2024

Objective

To evaluate racial and ethnic differences in patient experience among VA primary care users at the Veterans Integrated Service Network (VISN) level.

Data Source and Study Setting

We performed a secondary analysis of the VA Survey of Healthcare Experiences of Patients‐Patient Centered Medical Home for fiscal years 2016–2019.

Study Design

We compared 28 patient experience measures (six each in the domains of access and care coordination, 16 in the domain of person‐centered care) between minoritized racial and ethnic groups (American Indian or Alaska Native [AIAN], Asian, Black, Hispanic, Multi‐Race, Native Hawaiian or Other Pacific Islander [NHOPI]) and White Veterans. We used weighted logistic regression to test differences between minoritized and White Veterans, controlling for age and gender.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

We defined meaningful difference as both statistically significant at two‐tailed p < 0.05 with a relative difference ≥10% or ≤−10%. Within VISNs, we included tests of group differences with adequate power to detect meaningful relative differences from a minimum of five comparisons (domain agnostic) per VISN, and separately for a minimum of two for access and care coordination and four for person‐centered care domains. We report differences as disparities/large disparities (relative difference ≥10%/≥ 25%), advantages (experience worse or better, respectively, than White patients), or equivalence.

Principal Findings

Our analytic sample included 1,038,212 Veterans (0.6% AIAN, 1.4% Asian, 16.9% Black, 7.4% Hispanic, 0.8% Multi‐Race, 0.8% NHOPI, 67.7% White). Across VISNs, the greatest proportion of comparisons indicated disparities for three of seven eligible VISNs for AIAN, 6/10 for Asian, 3/4 for Multi‐Race, and 2/6 for NHOPI Veterans. The plurality of comparisons indicated advantages or equivalence for 17/18 eligible VISNs for Black and 12/14 for Hispanic Veterans. AIAN, Asian, Multi‐Race, and NHOPI groups had more comparisons indicating disparities by VISN in the access domain than person‐centered care and care coordination.

Conclusions

We found meaningful differences in patient experience measures across VISNs for minoritized compared to White groups, especially for groups with lower population representation.
Improving flow dynamics and storage longevity of a low‐cost phosphorescent fingerprint powder
Authors: Harrington Jodie L. , Gee William J.
Published: May 2024

An inexpensive, commercially available doped strontium aluminate phosphor with long‐lived afterglow was prepared as a luminescent fingerprint dusting powder suited for challenging, highly patterned substrates; however, prolonged exposure to humidity was found to reduce that powder's affinity for fingermarks. Here, an enhanced preparation for synthesizing that fingerprint dusting powder is presented that prevents powder aggregation and loss of function upon exposure to humid environments. This was achieved by introducing a flow regulator during synthesis: hydrophobic silica SIPERNAT® D10 or SIPERNAT® D17. Increasing the hydrophobicity of the powder prevents aggregation by inhibiting the uptake of water, thereby improving the material's flow dynamics and transfer behavior from brush to fingermark. The angle of repose and flow characteristics made by the modified powders were quantified, with excellent affinity for fingermarks observed, even after being stored under 85% (±5%) humidity for 4 weeks. A preliminary comparison of the performance of the modified hydrophobic powders relative to the unmodified precursor revealed that more of the SIPERNAT® treated powder typically adhered to fingermarks while simultaneously imparting less background development. In addition, fewer clumps of particulate were observed in the developed fingermarks after addition of a hydrophobic flow regulator. This technical report outlines the updated method for synthesizing the fingerprint powder, with summarized flow performance results, and a demonstration of the modified powder's affinity for simulated fingermark evidence.
Structural characterization of Aspalatus linearis polysaccharide and its improving effect on acute alcoholic liver injury
Authors: Zhang Yan , Liu Jia , Xu Shan , Luo Manhong , Yang Shuhan , Yu Siyu
Published: May 2024

Polysaccharides from natural sources can regulate the composition of intestinal flora through the “gut‐liver axis” pathway, potentially ameliorating alcoholic liver injury. Aspalathus linearis, also known as rooibos, is one such natural product that has shown promise in this regard. This study looked at the structural properties of A. linearis polysaccharide (ALP) and how well it would work to treat acute alcoholic liver impairment. This study looks at the composition of monosaccharides, functional groups, and molecular weight (Mw) of a newly discovered water‐soluble polysaccharide, named ALP. The polysaccharide is composed of pyranose rings, amide groups, and sulfate groups linked by β‐glycosidic linkage. It has a relative Mw of 4.30 × 103 kDa and is composed of glucose, rhamnose, and some other monosaccharides. The study found that treating mice with the model of acute alcoholic liver disease with ALP could alleviate pathological symptoms, inhibit the release of inflammatory cytokines, and suppress indicators of oxidative stress. Experiments have shown that different doses of ALP can activate the P4502E1/Keap1‐Nrf2‐HO‐1 signaling pathway. The regulation of inflammatory factors and downstream antioxidant enzymes occurs as a result. Based on these data, it is likely that ALP protects the liver via the “gut‐liver axis” pathway by reducing oxidative stress‐related damage, inflammation, and alcohol‐related alterations to the gut microbiome. The results indicate that ALP mitigates injury caused by oxidative stress, inflammatory responses, and changes in the gut microbiota induced by alcohol through the “gut‐liver axis” pathway, which provides protection to the liver. This provides preliminary evidence for the development of related drugs.

Practical Application

Researchers extracted a polysaccharide from fresh leaves of Auricularia auricula. The polysaccharide was purified and determined to have a predominantly homogeneous molecular weight. An acute alcoholic liver damage mouse model was established, and it was concluded that the polysaccharide could ameliorate liver injury in mice through the “gut‐liver axis” pathway. This novel polysaccharide can be used as an additive to develop functional foods with beneficial effects, which can positively impact the daily maintenance of consumers.
Iceland: Political Developments and Data in 2023
Authors: HARDARSON ÓLAFUR TH.
Published: May 2024

In 2023, we saw increasing instability in Icelandic politics and economy. Increasing tensions could be observed between the three government coalition parties, the Left Greens, the Progressive Party and the Independence Party. While the coalition has been in power since 2017, it includes both the parliamentary party furthest to the left, the left‐socialist Left Greens, and the party furthest to the right, the conservative Independence Party. The government had been united when successfully fighting the COVID‐19 pandemic and was re‐elected in the Althingi elections 2021—a unique success since the bank crash of 2008. But when politics got back to ‘normal’, ideological differences between the coalition parties re‐emerged. High inflation and high interest rates did not help the government. It continued to lose support in the monthly Gallup polls. At the end of the year, only 32 per cent claimed to be government supporters. All government parties lost support. The government losses mainly benefited one of the opposition parties, the Social Democratic Alliance.
Digital phenotyping data and anomaly detection methods to assess changes in mood and anxiety symptoms across a transdiagnostic clinical sample
Authors: Cohen Asher , Naslund John , Lane Erlend , Bhan Anant , Rozatkar Abhijit , Mehta Urvakhsh Meherwan , Vaidyam Aditya , Byun Andrew (Jin Soo) , Barnett Ian , Torous John
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Clinical assessment of mood and anxiety change often relies on clinical assessment or self‐reported scales. Using smartphone digital phenotyping data and resulting markers of behavior (e.g., sleep) to augment clinical symptom scores offers a scalable and potentially more valid method to understand changes in patients' state. This paper explores the potential of using a combination of active and passive sensors in the context of smartphone‐based digital phenotyping to assess mood and anxiety changes in two distinct cohorts of patients to assess the preliminary reliability and validity of this digital phenotyping method.

Methods

Participants from two different cohorts, each n = 76, one with diagnoses of depression/anxiety and the other schizophrenia, utilized mindLAMP to collect active data (e.g., surveys on mood/anxiety), along with passive data consisting of smartphone digital phenotyping data (geolocation, accelerometer, and screen state) for at least 1 month. Using anomaly detection algorithms, we assessed if statistical anomalies in the combination of active and passive data could predict changes in mood/anxiety scores as measured via smartphone surveys.

Results

The anomaly detection model was reliably able to predict symptom change of 4 points or greater for depression as measured by the PHQ‐9 and anxiety as measured for the GAD‐8 for both patient populations, with an area under the ROC curve of 0.65 and 0.80 for each respectively. For both PHQ‐9 and GAD‐7, these AUCs were maintained when predicting significant symptom change at least 7 days in advance. Active data alone predicted around 52% and 75% of the symptom variability for the depression/anxiety and schizophrenia populations respectively.

Conclusion

These results indicate the feasibility of anomaly detection for predicting symptom change in transdiagnostic cohorts. These results across different patient groups, different countries, and different sites (India and the US) suggest anomaly detection of smartphone digital phenotyping data may offer a reliable and valid approach to predicting symptom change. Future work should emphasize prospective application of these statistical methods.
Whole‐genome resequencing reveals diversity and selective signals in the Wuxue goat
Authors: Li Chuanqing , Wang Xianglin , Li Haobang , Ahmed Zulfiqar , Luo Yang , Qin Mao , Yang Qiong , Long Zhangcheng , Lei Chuzhao , Yi Kangle
Published: May 2024

Animal genetic resources are crucial for ensuring global food security. However, in recent years, a noticeable decline in the genetic diversity of livestock has occurred worldwide. This decline is pronounced in developing countries, where the management of these resources is insufficient. In the current study, we performed whole genome sequencing for 20 Wuxue (WX) and five Guizhou White (GW) goats. Additionally, we utilized the published genomes of 131 samples representing five different goat breeds from various regions in China. We investigated and compared the genetic diversity and selection signatures of WX goats. Whole genome sequencing analysis of the WX and GW populations yielded 120 425 063 SNPs, which resided primarily in intergenic and intron regions. Population genetic structure revealed that WX exhibited genetic resemblance to GW, Chengdu Brown, and Jintang Black and significant differentiation from the other goat breeds. In addition, three methods (nucleotide diversity, linkage disequilibrium decay, and runs of homozygosity) showed moderate genetic diversity in WX goats. We used nucleotide diversity and composite likelihood ratio methods to identify within‐breed signatures of positive selection in WX goats. A total of 369 genes were identified using both detection methods, including genes related to reproduction (GRID2, ZNF276, TCF25, and SPIRE2), growth (HMGA2 and GJA3), and immunity (IRF3 and SRSF3). Overall, this study explored the adaptability of WX goats, shedding light on their genetic richness and potential to thrive in challenges posed by climatic changes and diseases. Further investigations are warranted to harness these insights to enhance more efficient and sustainable goat breeding initiatives.
Breast conservation versus mastectomy for metaplastic breast cancer: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Harris Christopher G , Azimi Farhad , Chan Belinda , Graham Susannah , Mak Cindy , Warrier Sanjay , Eslick Guy D
Published: May 2024

Metaplastic breast cancer is a rare aggressive subtype of breast cancer for which there are no clear treatment guidelines regarding the optimal surgical approach. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to evaluate survival outcomes of patients with metaplastic breast cancer undergoing breast conservation compared with mastectomy. We identified studies from MEDLINE, Pubmed, EMBASE, Google Scholar, the Cochrane Library Register of Controlled Trials and the EBM Reviews Register. Studies were deemed suitable for inclusion where they compared breast‐conserving surgery to mastectomy with the primary outcome of overall survival. Survival data were pooled using a random‐effects model.

From the 456 citations screened by our search, three studies were assessed as eligible for inclusion. There were a total of 2995 patients who underwent mastectomy and 1909 who underwent breast conservation. The median follow‐up time was 43 months. Meta‐analysis demonstrated no significant difference between breast conservation and mastectomy (pooled HR 0.89, 95% CI, 0.56–1.42, p = 0.631). Wide local excision, in conjunction with adjuvant radiation and judicious use of chemotherapy, may be a reasonable alternative to mastectomy as surgical management of metaplastic breast cancer as part of an individualized, multidisciplinary approach.
The use of in‐hospital guidelines for prevention of sudden unexpected postnatal collapse: A national survey
Authors: Bergman Klasien A. , Bouma Bea A. , Semmekrot Ben A. , Matthijsse René P. , Reiss Irwin K. M. , Ikkink Henrike Klein , Hulzebos Christian V.
Published: May 2024

Aim

Sudden unexpected postnatal collapse is a life‐threatening event and may occur in any newborn infant. Safe skin‐to‐skin contact, and awareness of sudden unexpected postnatal collapse are key to its prevention. The aim of this study was to survey the presence of skin‐to‐skin contact and/or sudden unexpected postnatal collapse protocols in the 70 perinatal centres in the Netherlands.

Methods

We performed a survey among Dutch paediatricians to examine the safe skin‐to‐skin contact and sudden unexpected postnatal collapse protocols.

Results

We received data from 59/70 (85%) perinatal centres. At least one case of sudden unexpected postnatal collapse was reported in 35/59 (59%) of these centres. Nearly half the centres had safe skin‐to‐skin contact and/or sudden unexpected postnatal collapse protocols. Ultimately, 16 protocols were available for analysis. They showed considerable differences in the type of perinatal care provided. Most protocols lacked recently published insights on safe skin‐to‐skin contact. Besides, protocols failed to incorporate awareness of and knowledge on how to prevent sudden unexpected postnatal collapse.

Conclusion

This study underlines the importance of drawing up uniform, multidisciplinary guidelines containing recommendations for the prevention of sudden unexpected postnatal collapse in the Netherlands.
Robotic‐assisted native pyeloureterostomy with indocyanine green, after kidney transplantation
Authors: Khalil Nour , Sarkis Julien , Ingels Alexandre
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Postoperative ureteral strictures and vesicoureteral reflux after ureteroneocystostomy for kidney transplant can be managed by endoscopic procedures like balloon dilation and endoscopic injections. Complicated/recurrent cases, however, are usually managed by reconstructive surgery. We hereby highlight our technique of robotic‐assisted native pyeloureterostomy with indocyanine green (ICG).

Materials and Surgical Technique

A 57‐year‐old woman, diagnosed with grade 4 vesicoureteral reflux on her transplanted kidney, was considered a candidate for ureteral reimplantation.

After an endoscopic part, where the ICG is inserted into the renal pelvis, we proceed with the robotic native pyeloureterostomy. The renal pelvis of the transplanted kidney was identified with the help of the ICG in firefly mode. After the dissection of the graft pelvis, we performed a tension‐free pyeloureterostomy using the native ureter. The postoperative course was uneventful and the patient was discharged on the third postoperative day.

Discussion

Robotic‐assisted pyelo‐ureterostomy appears as a safe and efficient technique for management of complicated urological complications postrenal transplantation using the native ureter. Intrapelvic ICG injection, not possible with open surgery, helps identifying the grafted pelvis thus reducing operative time and avoiding unnecessary dissection of the vascular hilum of the graft. Because of minimal dissection and the short operative time, abdominal drainage is unnecessary and the postoperative course is usually uneventful with a fast discharge from the hospital.
Completion lobectomy under 4K three‐dimensional endoscopy for surgical margin recurrence after segmentectomy
Authors: Mimura Takeshi , Haraguchi Shintaro , Ishida Masayuki , Kagimoto Atsushi
Published: May 2024

As the adoption of segmentectomy for small‐sized lung cancers expands, the need for more challenging completion lobectomy (CL) may arise to address surgical margin recurrence. Herein, we present a case of successful CL using a 4K three‐dimensional (3D) (4K3D) endoscopy after segmentectomy. A 77‐year‐old male patient with lung cancer in the anterior segment (S3) of the left upper lobe underwent S3 segmentectomy. One year later, the patient experienced a recurrence at the surgical margin. CL was successfully performed under 4K3D endoscopy, same as the initial surgery. CL after segmentectomy requires meticulous preoperative planning and precise surgical maneuvering, and 4K3D endoscopy provides safe and reliable outcomes.
Effects of abrupt and gradual light/dark switching on growth performance, behavior, villus development, meat characteristics, and immunity of broilers
Authors: Gündoğar Umut Can , Onbaşılar Esin Ebru , Ahlat Ozan
Published: May 2024

The aim of this study is to determine the effect of abrupt and gradual light/dark switching on growth performance, behavior, villus development, meat characteristics, and immunity of broilers. A total of 270 daily male broiler chicks were used in the experiment. The study comprised three groups based on whether the transitions between light and dark periods were abrupt or gradual. No significant differences were observed among the examined groups in terms of body weight, weight gain, mortality rate, feeding, pecking, relaxing, and feather preening behaviors, carcass, and breast meat quality characteristics. Total body weight gain, total feed consumption, total feed utilization ratio, and mortality rates of broilers during the 6‐week fattening period did not differ compared to the abrupt transition. Broilers in the group with gradual transition exhibited less movement, more sitting, and sleeping behaviors. It was determined that the IgG was higher in the gradual transition group. The transitions between light and dark periods influenced the characteristics of thigh meat. Villus height and crypt depth were higher in the group where a 1‐h gradual transition was applied. As a conclusion, gradual transition is more appropriate in broiler rearing.
Concurrent nimotuzumab and intensity‐modulated radiotherapy for elderly patients with locally advanced nasopharyngeal carcinoma
Authors: Cao Caineng , Fang Yuting , Jiang Feng , Jin Qifeng , Jin Ting , Huang Shuang , Hu Qiaoying , Chen Yuanyuan , Piao Yongfeng , Hua Yonghong , Feng Xinglai , Chen Xiaozhong
Published: May 2024

Because of the common physical condition, reduced organ function, and comorbidities, elderly patients with nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) are often underrepresented in clinical trials. The optimal treatment of elderly patients with locally advanced NPC remains unclear. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of concurrent nimotuzumab combined with intensity‐modulated radiotherapy (IMRT) in elderly patients with locally advanced NPC. We conducted a single‐arm, phase II trial for elderly patients with stage III–IVA NPC (according to UICC–American Joint Committee on Cancer TNM classification, 8th edition). All patients received concurrent nimotuzumab (200 mg/week, 1 week prior to IMRT) combined with IMRT. The primary end‐point was complete response (CR) rate. The secondary end‐points were survival, safety, and geriatric assessment. Between March 13, 2017 and November 12, 2018, 30 patients were enrolled. In total, 20 (66.7%) patients achieved CR, and objective response was observed in 30 (100.0%) patients 1 month after radiotherapy. The median follow‐up time was 56.05 months (25th–75th percentile, 53.45–64.56 months). The 5‐year locoregional relapse‐free survival, distant metastasis‐free survival, cancer‐specific survival, disease‐free survival, and overall survival were 89.4%, 86.4%, 85.9%, 76.5%, and 78.8%, respectively. Grade 3 mucositis occurred in 10 (33%) patients and grade 3 pneumonia in 3 (10%) patients. Concurrent nimotuzumab combined with IMRT is effective and well‐tolerated for elderly patients with locally advanced NPC.
Design, synthesis, and antibacterial activity of pleuromutilin derivatives
Authors: Liu Hui‐xian , Yao Wen‐yu , Cui Ge , Zhou Jing , Yan Hao , Guo Hui , Wang Yu‐wei , Zhang Yue
Published: May 2024

This paper reports the design, synthesis, and antibacterial activity study of pleuromutilin derivatives with 2‐methyl‐4‐nitroaniline and 2‐methoxy‐4‐nitroaniline side chains at the C22 position. The structures of the new compounds were characterized by 1H‐NMR, 13C‐NMR and HRMS. The inhibitory activity of the compounds against MSSA, pyogeniccoccus, streptococcus, and MRSA strains was determined using the micro broth dilution method. The results showed that the compounds exhibited certain activity against Gram‐positive bacteria, among which compounds A8a, A8b, A8c, A8d, and A7 demonstrated superior antibacterial activity against MSSA, MRSA, and pyogeniccoccus compared to tiamulin, although the derivatives showed lower antibacterial activity against streptococcus compared to the control drug. Based on the favorable in vitro activity of A8c, the time‐kill kinetics against MRSA were evaluated, revealing that compound A8c could inhibit bacterial proliferation in a concentration‐dependent manner.
Prospective observational cohort study of the change of the marginal bone crest in relation to the prosthetic abutment height and the peri‐implant vertical mucosal thickness at implants positioned subcrestally
Authors: Maza‐Solano Serafín , Baus‐Domínguez María , Romero‐Ruíz Manuel‐María , Gutiérrez‐Corrales Aida , Torres‐Lagares Daniel , Serrera‐Figallo María‐Ángeles
Published: May 2024

Aim

To evaluate the influence on peri‐implant crestal bone loss exerted by the vertical mucosal thickness and the abutment height over 12 months after placement of the restoration on subcrestal implants with change of platform, using a restoration abutment platform smaller than the implant platform.

Materials and Methods

A total of 99 implants were rehabilitated in the maxillary and mandibular posterior regions. A total of 22 implants were rehabilitated in the maxilla and 77 implants in the mandible, using digitally designed customized abutments with Atlantis weborder software, from the commercial house Dentsply Sirona (Dentsply Sirona S.A., Barcelona, Spain), version 4.6.5, adapting the height to the vertical thickness of the mucosa. Clinical and radiographic monitoring begins during the surgical procedure of placement of the implant and ends 12 months afterwards. Crestal bone loss was evaluated through the Carestream® CS8100 3D radiographic equipment.

Results

In all cases, the greatest loss of marginal bone occurred between the day of surgery (Tx) and placement of the rehabilitation (To). The average bone loss between both times was greater when the abutment height and vertical mucosal thickness did not exceed 3 mm. Subsequently, bone loss slowed and stabilized at 12 months.

Conclusions

The minimum abutment height and the vertical mucosal thickness are factors to take into account when minimizing peri‐implant marginal bone loss, the abutment height having the greatest importance according to the clinical data obtained.
Tissue changes around dental implants installed in alveolar ridge preservation sites: A 1‐year follow‐up randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Gabay Eran , Regev Eli , Mayer Yaniv , Horwitz Jacob , Asbi Thabet , Ginesin Ofir , Zigdon‐Giladi Hadar
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aimed to assess radiographic marginal bone changes 22 months post extraction, which is 1 year after implant loading in alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) sites grafted with a combination of collagen‐embedded xenogenic bone substitute (DBBM‐C) and collagen matrix (CMX), comparing them with implants placed in naturally healed sites.

Methods

This randomized controlled clinical trial was conducted over 22 months. Patients who needed a single tooth extraction and subsequent implant placement in nonmolar areas were enrolled. The test group received deproteinized bovine bone mineral with 10% collagen covered by a procaine collagen membrane, while the control group allowed spontaneous healing. Radiographic bone level changes were documented using periapical radiographs at implant placement and follow‐up visits (6, 10, and 22 months postextraction). Early implant soft tissue exposure, clinical parameters, and patient‐reported outcomes were recorded.

Results

Twenty‐two out of 28 participants completed a 22‐month follow‐up, 9 in the test group and 13 in the control group. At 10‐month postextraction follow‐up, the mean MBL was 1.01 ± 1.04 mm in the treatment group and 0.81 ± 0.93 mm in the control group (p = 0.804). At 22 months, the mean MBL was 2.09 ± 1.03 mm in the treatment group and 1.58 ± 0.73 mm in the control group (p = 0.339). No statistically significant differences in probing depth (PD) and bleeding on probing (BOP) were found at the 22 ‐month follow‐up as well. Soft tissue mean recession was observed in the control group (0.36 ± 0.84 mm), while no recession was found in the test group (p = 0.2). Early implant soft tissue exposure occurred in 33% of test group participants, while none was observed in the control group (p = 0.047).

Conclusion

One year after implant loading, no significant differences in marginal bone resorption were found between implants placed in ARP‐treated and naturally healed sites. However, ARP‐treated sites exhibited early implant soft‐tissue exposure, suggesting a possible impairment in soft tissue healing.
Ultraconserved elements from transcriptome and genome data provide insight into the phylogenomics of Sternorrhyncha (Insecta: Hemiptera)
Authors: Liu Dajun , Cui Jinyu , Liu Yubo , Niu Minmin , Wang Fang , Zhao Qing , Cai Bo , Zhang Hufang , Wei Jiufeng
Published: May 2024

Sternorrhyncha, one of the four major suborders of Hemiptera, is a phytophagous taxon inclusive of nearly 18 000 described species. The phylogenetic relationships within the taxon and the earliest‐branching lineage of its infraorders remain incompletely understood. This study attempted to illuminate the phylogenetic relationships within Sternorrhyncha through the use of maximum likelihood, Bayesian inference and maximum parsimony analyses, employing ultraconserved element (UCE) data from 39 genomic and 62 transcriptomic datasets and thereby representing most families within the taxon. The probe set Hemiptera 2.7Kv1 was used to recover a total of 2731 UCE loci: from 547 to 1699 (with an average of 1084) across all genomic datasets and from 108 to 849 (with an average of 329) across all transcriptomic datasets. All three types of phylogenetic analyses employed in this study produced robust statistical support for Sternorrhyncha being a monophyletic group. The different methods of phylogenetic analysis produced inconsistent descriptions of topological structure at the infraorder level: while maximum likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses produced strong statistical evidence (100%) indicating the clade Psylloidea + Aleyrodoidea to be a sister of the clade Aphidoidea (Aphidomorpha) + Coccoidea (Coccomorpha), the maximum parsimony analysis failed to recover a similar result. Our results also provide detail on the phylogenetic relationships within each infraorder. This study presents the first use of UCE data to investigate the phylogeny of Sternorrhyncha. It also shows the viability of amalgamating genomic and transcriptomic data in studies of phylogenetic relationships, potentially highlighting a resource‐efficient approach for future inquiries into diverse taxa through the integration of varied data sources.
Evaluating drivers of recent large whale strandings on the East Coast of the United States
Authors: Thorne L. H. , Wiley D. N.
Published: May 2024

Anthropogenic stressors threaten large whales globally. Effective management requires an understanding of where, when, and why threats are occurring. Strandings data provide key information on geographic hotspots of risk and the relative importance of various threats. There is currently considerable public interest in the increased frequency of large whale strandings occurring along the US East Coast of the United States since 2016. Interest is accentuated due to a purported link with offshore wind energy development. We reviewed spatiotemporal patterns of strandings, mortalities, and serious injuries of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae), the species most frequently involved, for which the US government has declared an “unusual mortality event” (UME). Our analysis highlights the role of vessel strikes, exacerbated by recent changes in humpback whale distribution and vessel traffic.  Humpback whales have expanded into new foraging grounds in recent years. Mortalities due to vessel strikes have increased significantly in these newly occupied regions, which show high vessel traffic that also increased markedly during the UME. Surface feeding and feeding in shallow waters may have been contributing factors. We found no evidence that offshore wind development contributed to strandings or mortalities. This work highlights the need to consider behavioral, ecological, and anthropogenic factors to determine the drivers of mortality and serious injury in large whales and to provide informed guidance to decision‐makers.
Nutrients and drought alter tri‐trophic interactions in cool‐temperate forests
Authors: Chaij Jaquelina Marisa , Aranda Melina Jeanette , Chaneton Enrique José , Mazía Noemi
Published: May 2024

Herbivorous insects are the main consumers in forest ecosystems, and the complexity of trophic interactions varies with resource availability, heterogeneity among feeding guilds and the presence of natural enemies. In this study, we examined tri‐trophic interactions in Nothofagus pumilio (Fagales: Nothofagaceae) Poepp. & Endl. Krasser forests in southern South America. Specifically, we focused on the effect of nitrogen addition and a drought event on levels of insect herbivory by different feeding guilds and the rate of parasitism on leaf miners throughout the growing season (middle and late).

Nitrogen (N) addition increased the foliar nitrogen content but had no effect on total damage by arboreal insects. However, the different feeding guilds responded differently to nitrogen addition, and these responses varied between average or dry year and within the growing season. Particularly, miner activity responded positively to nitrogen addition, increasing their incidence towards the late season of the average year. The positive effect of nitrogen addition on miner activity did not cascade up to the trophic level of parasitoids, which varied with the climatic context and the growing season.

These results suggest that tri‐trophic interactions were mainly controlled by the climatic context, since consumers and their natural enemy responses were more dependent on the climatic context and growing seasons than on plant quality. Overall, we highlight the role of fluctuating abiotic resources and the heterogeneity within each trophic level in structuring tri‐trophic interactions in forest ecosystems.
Short‐selling restriction and return predictability: Evidence from China
Authors: Jiang Ying , Qiu Jiayan , Sun Qian
Published: May 2024

We examine how the ban on t+0 short selling affects the return predictability of short sellers in China. If the ban drives out mostly less informed short sellers, then the return predictive power should be enhanced. However, if the ban drives out more informed short sellers instead of less informed short sellers, then the return predictability should worsen. We find that in China, where the stock market is dominated by retail investors, and short‐selling activities are not active, the ban is likely to drive out more informed short sellers, and thus, worsen the predictive power of short selling.
ENGAGEMENT IN BRIEFEN: FANNY TARNOWS TEILHABE AN DEN EREIGNISSEN VON 1848/49 ANHAND IHRER KORRESPONDENZ AUS DEN 1830ER UND 1840ER JAHREN
Authors: Dampc‐Jarosz Renata
Published: May 2024

In the time preceding, during, and following the revolution in France, Germany, and other European nations in 1848/49, numerous women writers actively participated in the fight for freedom and democracy. However, their involvement manifested in diverse forms. Besides the women categorised as ‘activist’ writers, there were others whose ‘engagement’ was less overt and public. Nevertheless, they too contributed through their writing and ideological alignment with the progressive political movements of their era. This article describes such subversive forms of engagement, using Fanny Tarnow and her correspondence with Karl August Varnhagen von Ense from 1833 to 1849 as a focal point for analysis. Central to this analytical framework is the notion of a dialogical exchange through letters, which served as a cornerstone for both Tarnow and Varnhagen in comprehending their socio‐political roles as mature writers navigating a new era's political landscape and community.
Influence of dispersion slope on the diagnosis of liver fibrosis by the shear wave in metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease
Authors: Ueda Naoyuki , Mokuda Sho , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Uchikawa Shinsuke , Amioka Kei , Tsuge Masataka , Asada Kana , Okada Yuri , Kobayashi Yui , Ishikawa Mai , Arase Takashi , Arihiro Koji , Oka Shiro
Published: May 2024

Aim

Shear wave (SW) elastography is used to evaluate metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) pathophysiology. Increased elasticity due to fibrosis and increased viscosity due to necrosis and inflammation affect SW. Assessing fibrosis, the most prognostically relevant pathology, is critical. Viscosity is evaluated using the dispersion slope (DS); however, cut‐off values that affect SW values are unclear. We compared the ultrasound imaging parameters (SW for viscoelasticity; DS for viscosity) with pathological findings.

Methods

Patients (n = 159) who underwent liver biopsy and SW and DS assessments at our hospital were included. Fibrosis stage and inflammation grade cut‐off values were calculated from SW, DS, and liver biopsy results using receiver operating characteristic curves. Cases in which liver biopsy results were inconsistent with SW results were used to determine the effect of viscosity on SW values. DS was examined in the Correct and Incorrect Diagnosis groups, which were categorized based on the concordance between SW and liver biopsy results. Dispersion slope cut‐off values between the two groups were calculated.

Results

Fibrosis stage cut‐off values by SW (m/s) were: ≥F2, 1.62; ≥F3, 1.74; and F4, 1.97. Inflammation grade cut‐off values by DS (m/s/kHz) were: ≥A1, 11.6; ≥A2, 14.5; and A3, 16.1. The Correct/Incorrect Diagnosis groups had 25/70 patients. The DS cut‐off value for both groups was 13.2 m/s/kHz.

Conclusions

Shear wave and DS are useful for evaluating liver fibrosis and inflammation in MASLD. For DS > 13.2 m/s/kHz, SW may be affected by the increased viscosity owing to inflammation. In such patients, caution should be used when determining/interpreting values.
Molecular investigation of vitamin D receptor (VDR) genetic variants and their impact on VDR mRNA and serum vitamin D levels in allergic rhinitis in an Indian population: A case–control study
Authors: Baba Shahid M , Shafi Tabasum , Rasool Roohi , Hameed Afaq , Shafi Saba , Ahmad Sheikh F.
Published: May 2024

Vitamin D deficiency is widespread and poses a significant health concern, as emerging research links it to allergic diseases owing to its immunomodulatory functions. The optimal functioning of vitamin D and its activation depend on its nuclear receptor, vitamin D receptor (VDR). Genetic variants of VDR have been explored as potential factors in autoimmune and allergic diseases, with limited studies on their association with allergic rhinitis (AR). The present investigation aims to analyse the role of three VDR genetic variants – TaqI, FokI and BsmI – in AR susceptibility and their impact on VDR mRNA and serum vitamin D levels. A total of 550 subjects, consisting of 250 AR cases and 300 age‐ and gender‐matched controls, underwent genotyping by polymerase chain reaction‐restriction fragment length polymorphism (PCR‐RFLP). VDR mRNA and vitamin D levels were determined by quantitative real‐time PCR and chemiluminescence, respectively. Although TaqI did not exhibit significant differences, FokI demonstrated a noteworthy association with AR, particularly with the CC genotype (odds ratio [OR]: 3.34; confidence interval [CI]: 1.79–6.23). Similarly, BsmI revealed an increased risk for AR, with the GA + AA genotypes showing a 2.2‐fold elevated risk (OR: 2.20; CI: 1.53–3.16). VDR mRNA expression was threefold lower in AR patients (p < .0001), accompanied by reduced serum vitamin D levels (p < .0001). In addition, CC (p = .01) and AA (p = .02) genotypes of FokI and BsmI were associated with reduced VDR mRNA levels, whereas TaqI showed no such association. Similarly, heterozygous genotypes of TaqI and FokI, as well as homozygous AA of BsmI, correlated with lower serum vitamin D levels (p < .001). This study emphasizes the intricate relationship among VDR genetic variations, altered VDR activity, immune modulation and vitamin D metabolism in AR. Further research involving diverse populations is crucial for confirming and generalizing these findings, paving the way for personalized therapeutic interventions in vitamin D–related disorders.
Comparison of oncological and functional results of robotic and open perineal radical prostatectomy
Authors: Çolakoğlu Yunus , Ekşi Mithat , Özlü Deniz Noyan , Şimşek Abdülmüttalip , Tuğcu Volkan , Taşçı Ali İhsan
Published: May 2024

Objective

We aimed to compare the functional and oncological outcomes of patients who underwent open perineal radical prostatectomy (OPP) and robotic perineal radical prostatectomy (RPP) for prostate cancer (PCa).

Methods

The data of patients who underwent OPP and RPP from June 2016 to February 2019 due to localized PCa were analyzed. Demographic characteristics, perioperative data and oncological results of the patients were recorded. In addition, the incontinence status of the patients immediately after catheter removal and at the 3rd, 6th, and 12th months were compared. Potency status was evaluated among the patients with preoperative potency, and 12th month potency status was compared.

Results

A total of 135 patients were included, of whom 58 (43%) were in the OPP group and 77 (57%) were in the RPP group. The operation time was statistically significantly shorter in the OPP group (83.90 ± 15.48 vs. 110.88 ± 28.10 min, p = 0.001). The amount of bleeding was significantly lower in the RPP group (59.51 ± 22.04 vs. 74.06 ± 17.66, p = 0.002). The continence rates evaluated at the early period, 3rd, 6th, and 12th months were 40.3%, 80.5%, 87.0%, and 90.9%, respectively, for the RPP group and 36.2%, 70.7%, 86.2%, and 89.7%, for the OPP group, indicating no statistically significant difference (p > 0.05). There was no statistically significant difference in the 12th month rates of postoperative potency according to the surgical technique (p > 0.05).

Conclusion

Although differences were observed between the OPP and RPP techniques in terms of perioperative parameters, oncological and functional results were similar.
Exacerbation of atherosclerosis by STX17 knockdown: Unravelling the role of autophagy and inflammation
Authors: Cui Xinyue , Wang Bo , Han Dongjian , Cheng Mengdie , Yuan Peiyu , Du Pengchong , Hou Yachen , Su Chang , Tang Junnan , Zhang Jinying
Published: May 2024

Syntaxin 17 (STX17) has been identified as a crucial factor in mediating the fusion of autophagosomes and lysosomes. However, its specific involvement in the context of atherosclerosis (AS) remains unclear. This study sought to elucidate the role and mechanistic contributions of STX17 in the initiation and progression of AS. Utilizing both in vivo and in vitro AS model systems, we employed ApoE knockout (KO) mice subjected to a high‐fat diet and human umbilical vein endothelial cells (HUVECs) treated with oxidized low‐density lipoprotein (ox‐LDL) to assess STX17 expression. To investigate underlying mechanisms, we employed shRNA‐STX17 lentivirus to knock down STX17 expression, followed by evaluating autophagy and inflammation in HUVECs. In both in vivo and in vitro AS models, STX17 expression was significantly upregulated. Knockdown of STX17 exacerbated HUVEC damage, both with and without ox‐LDL treatment. Additionally, we observed that STX17 knockdown impaired autophagosome degradation, impeded autophagy flux and also resulted in the accumulation of dysfunctional lysosomes in HUVECs. Moreover, STX17 knockdown intensified the inflammatory response following ox‐LDL treatment in HUVECs. Further mechanistic exploration revealed an association between STX17 and STING; reducing STX17 expression increased STING levels. Further knockdown of STING enhanced autophagy flux. In summary, our findings suggest that STX17 knockdown worsens AS by impeding autophagy flux and amplifying the inflammatory response. Additionally, the interaction between STX17 and STING may play a crucial role in STX17‐mediated autophagy.