bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of mid-term outcomes of partial and intermediate atrioventricular canal defect surgery
Authors: Altin Husnu F. , Korun Oktay , Cicek Murat , Yurdakok Okan , Kilic Yigit , Selcuk Arif , Yilmaz Emine Hekim , Ergin Selma Oktay , Sasmazel Ahmet , Aydemir Numan A.
Published: October 2024

Background:

The risk factors for reoperation and mortality after partial and intermediate atrioventricular canal defect repair are unclear. This study assessed the mid-term outcomes and risk factors for reoperation and mortality after partial and intermediate atrioventricular canal defect surgery.

Methods:

Ninety-seven patients who underwent primary repair of intermediate (n = 45) or partial (n = 52) atrioventricular canal defect between 2005 and 2019 were included in this single-centre study.

Results:

The median age was 5 years (2.7–8.9 years). The median follow-up time was 32 months (1.6–90.8 months). The estimated freedom from reoperation at 1, 5, and 10 years was 97%, 91%, and 73%, respectively.

In multivariable analyses, post-operative left atrioventricular valve regurgitation of grade II or higher (odds ratio [OR]: 5.3, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.8–15.5, p = 0.01) and post-operative residual intracardiac shunt (OR: 11.6, 95% CI: 1.6–85.8, p = 0.02) were risk factors for reoperation.

In multivariable analyses, perioperative reoperation (OR: 93.4, 95% CI: 3.9–218.7, p = 0.01) and the need for right atrioventricular valve repair (OR: 11.2, 95% CI: 1.0 – 123.3, p = 0.04) were risk factors for mortality. Mortality was higher in patients under 2.6 years of age.

Conclusion:

For patients undergoing repair of partial or intermediate atrioventricular canal defect, those with post-operative left atrioventricular valve regurgitation of grade II or higher and post-operative residual intracardiac shunt have an increased reoperation risk. Higher mortality can be expected after a perioperative reoperation, and in patients requiring right atrioventricular valve repair during the index procedure.
Very high take-off the right coronary artery with double outlet right ventricle
Authors: Öztürk Musa , Aykan Hayrettin Hakan
Published: October 2024

This article presents an anatomical variation of the very high take-off right coronary artery from the ascending aorta. Clinical care is complicated by the patient’s double outlet right ventricle and right aortic arch associated with this situation.
The effect of the social security on aggregate effective labor supply: the role of endogenous human capital and of selection effects
Authors: Brembilla Laurent
Published: October 2024

We quantify the importance of endogenous human capital and of selection effects for counterfactual analysis of social security (SS) reforms. The literature typically performs these analyses by using structural models featuring exogenous productivity profiles. However, this approach faces two issues: (i) the estimation of productivity is subject to selection bias, and (ii) productivity is endogenous to the SS reforms. In this paper, we estimate a quantitative overlapping generations model featuring endogenous human capital accumulation using US data. First, we eliminate the SS and find a large positive effect on aggregate effective labor supply (

${+}10.31\%$

). Next, we build variants of this model to quantify the two issues (i) and (ii). We find that the endogeneity issue (ii) is quantitatively more important than the selection bias issue (i).
Effects of the WHO analgesic ladder on pain severity, pain interference, and blood pressure control in hypertensive patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Srikrajang Siwaluk , Komolsuradej Narucha , Chaovalit Sirawee , Chuaychoosakoon Chaiwat
Published: October 2024

Aim:

This study aimed to investigate the effects of pain management according to the World Health Organization (WHO) analgesic ladder on pain severity, pain interference, and blood pressure (BP) in treated hypertensive patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.

Background:

Pain management can affect BP control owing to the proposed mechanism by which persistent pain contributes to increased BP. However, there are inadequate studies investigating the benefit of pain management in controlling both pain and BP in hypertensive patients who have chronic pain.

Methods:

In this cross-sectional study, demographic data and pain characteristics (resting pain score on the numerical pain rating scale, pain severity, and pain interference subscale of the Brief Pain Inventory) were collected via face-to-face interviews. BP was measured thrice on the same day. Data on pain medications taken in the previous 1 month were retrieved from the medical records. Participants were categorized into three groups following pain management patterns according to the WHO analgesic ladder: no, partial, and complete treatment. Multivariate logistic regression analysis (MLRA) was used to analyse the association between the variables and uncontrolled BP.

Findings:

Among 210 participants, the mean (standard deviation) age was 68 (15.5) years, and 60.47% had uncontrolled BP. The resting pain score, pain severity, and pain interference subscale scores of the complete treatment group were significantly lower than that of the partial treatment group (P = 0.036, 0.026, and 0.044, respectively). The MLRA revealed that pain management patterns were associated with uncontrolled BP (adjusted odds ratio [AOR]: 6.75; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.71−16.78; P < 0.001) and resting pain scores (AOR: 1.17; 95% CI: 1.04−1.38; P = 0.048). Our findings suggest that pain management patterns adhering to the WHO analgesic ladder can reduce pain severity and pain interference and also control BP in hypertensive patients with chronic musculoskeletal pain.
How can we accept ‘our’ decisions?: an experimental study on lottocracy, epistocracy, and electoral democracy
Authors: Yamaguchi Akito , Hata Masaki , Inoue Akira
Published: October 2024

Lottocracy and epistocracy have received deeply insightful attention as political regimes. Herein, by conducting an experiment using an online survey, we explored the extent to which public opinion is receptive to political decisions under various regimes regarding two environmental policies: education policy and environmental tax policy. By doing so, we examined whether the presence of tax burdens affected the acceptability of political regimes, i.e., electoral democracy, lottocracy, and epistocracy. Our results revealed that decisions based on lottocracy and epistocracy were significantly less acceptable than those based on electoral democracy. Nevertheless, lottocratic and epistocratic decisions were more acceptable regarding the issue of environmental tax policy. The difference was mainly attributed to people's rejection of environmental tax policy offsetting their rejection of lottocracy and epistocracy. This suggests, first, that decisions based on electoral democracy increase policies' acceptability if they do not involve taxation, and second, that the status of whether or not a decision is electoral does not significantly affect policy acceptability if taxation is involved, whereas on the other hand, people are sensitive to differences between the regimes if the policy does not involve taxation.
Developing a Sitting Simple Baduanjin program for advanced cancer patients with the fatigue-sleep disturbance symptom cluster: A feasibility study
Authors: Zou Huina , Chen Liangying , Duan Tingjin , Lin Xiaoyan , Zheng Jianwei , Xiao Huimin
Published: October 2024

Objectives

We describe a development and feasibility study of a Sitting Simple Baduanjin program for advanced cancer patients suffering from the fatigue–sleep disturbance symptom cluster. This study was to evaluate the practicality and safety of the Sitting Simple Baduanjin intervention and determine its preliminary efficacy.

Methods

This work employed a single-arm mixed-methods approach. The primary outcome measures were feasibility (i.e., recruitment, adherence, and satisfaction) and safety. Validated self-report questionnaires were used to evaluate the preliminary effects of the program, including fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life at the 4th, 8th, and 12th weeks of the intervention. Qualitative interviews were also conducted after the program.

Results

A total of 30 participants were enrolled, of which 23 (77%) completed the 12-week Sitting Simple Baduanjin program. The mean adherence rate was 88% and no adverse events were reported. Statistically significant improvements were observed in terms of fatigue, sleep quality, and quality of life after program completion. Four themes emerged from the qualitative interview data: (a) acceptability of the Sitting Simple Baduanjin technique, (b) perceived benefits of exercise, (c) barriers, and (d) facilitators.

Significance of Results

The findings support the feasibility of the Sitting Simple Baduanjin program for advanced cancer patients and show promise in improving patients’ levels of the fatigue–sleep disturbance symptom cluster and quality of life.
Cover crop effects on the growth of perennial weeds in two long-term organic crop rotations
Authors: Melander Bo , Rasmussen Jim , Sørensen Peter
Published: October 2024

Cover crops are important in organic arable cropping systems because they improve soil fertility and suppress annual weeds in the post-harvest period (the period between cash crops), but their effectiveness against perennial weeds is less clear. This study analyzed outbreaks of perennial weeds in two long-term organic crop rotations with and without cover crops in the period 2011–2022 in Denmark. In addition, the impact of including forage plantain (Plantago lanceolata) in cover crop mixtures on the growth of perennial weeds was studied from 2020 to 2022. P. lanceolata is known to contain secondary metabolites that inhibit nitrification and may influence nitrogen (N) availability. This study found that cover crops did not hinder outbreaks of Cirsium arvense, Sonchus arvensis, Elytrigia repens or other perennial weed species. E. repens actually proliferated more with cover crops whose presence prevented repeated mechanical post-harvest interventions. The crop rotation involving regular cutting of a one-year or two-year green manure crop provided the best management of perennial weeds if repeated post-harvest soil cultivation was also conducted. This could only be done in the absence of cover crops. Mixing P. lanceolata into the cover crop mixtures did not change the outcome of competition between cover crops and perennial weeds in the period between crop harvest in August and November. Instead, P. lanceolata significantly reduced the number of shoots emerging from perennial weeds in the subsequent growing season. The causality of this effect was not further elaborated in the study.
Seeking balance: The role of Article 6(5) of Additional Protocol II in balancing justice and peace in transitions from armed conflict to peace
Authors: Acosta López Juana Inés
Published: October 2024

This article explores the role of Article 6(5) of Additional Protocol II to the Geneva Conventions in balancing justice and peace during transitions from armed conflict to peace. It argues that the provision, which encourages the granting of broad amnesties at the cessation of hostilities, requires a re-evaluation of the obligation to investigate, prosecute and punish under international law. By analyzing the legal context and scope of Article 6(5), as well as its application in transitional justice models such as in Colombia, the article highlights how the principle of peace can be prioritized alongside justice without undermining victims’ rights. The discussion critically addresses maximalist interpretations of justice, presenting a nuanced approach that foregrounds restorative justice and the importance of reconciliation in post-conflict societies.
“Si vis pacem, impera bellum”: The ICRC, international humanitarian law and peace
Authors: Palmieri Daniel
Published: October 2024

This article examines the links between the concept of peace and international humanitarian law (IHL). It takes a closer look at how the originator of IHL, the International Committee of the Red Cross, justified the existence of this body of law, which was supposed to regulate war, in the face of those who wanted to see war abolished once and for all. The article also questions the attitude of the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, which, while wanting a peaceful society, did not give itself the means to achieve one.
Going Negative in Autocracy: A Field Experiment at the Moscow Mayoral Elections
Authors: Mironov Maxim , Petrachkova Alexandra
Published: October 2024

Opposition in autocracies often uses negativism against the regime to frame its principal message. This study is the first to experimentally evaluate the effectiveness of a negative campaign on a regime candidate’s vote share. For the field experiment conducted during the 2013 Moscow mayoral election, we published a newspaper criticizing the incumbent mayor. We distributed approximately 130,000 copies near the entrances of 20 stations on four randomly selected metro lines one month prior to the election. We found that the incumbent’s vote share was 1.7 percentage points lower at the voting stations where the newspaper was distributed. These votes go to other candidates who address issues raised by the negative campaign. Anti-regime campaigning does not suppress turnout or increase disapproval voting.
Improvements to EXSIM in Ground Motion Simulation for Earthquakes Explained by Double‐Corner‐Frequency Source Model
Authors: Ma Wanjun , Xie Zhinan , Fu Lei , Shan Zhendong , Lu Jianqi , Tang Lihua , Zhang Xubin
Published: October 2024

The stochastic EXtended finite‐fault ground‐motion SIMulation algorithm (EXSIM) has been widely applied in simulating and predicting broadband strong ground‐motion. However, an increasingly number of researchers have found that EXSIM may overestimate ground‐motions at low frequencies for some large‐magnitude earthquakes and/or thrust earthquakes, for which the far‐field source model has been explained by a double‐corner‐frequency model. Despite controversy, the double‐corner‐frequency model is now being accepted as one of the main categories of the far‐field source model. This study demonstrated the limited applicability of EXSIM to earthquakes explained by the double‐corner‐frequency source model, by presenting the equivalence between motions generated by EXSIM and those generated by EXSIM's point‐source version, SMSIM, which adopts the ω‐square single‐corner‐frequency model. Furthermore, two improvements to EXSIM have been proposed: (a) the incorporation of the asperity‐distributed stress‐drop compound faults model and (b) the hybrid application of EXSIM with the proposed model. The effects of the two improvements have been verified by comparing EXSIM‐generating motions with recorded ground‐motions for the 2013 Mw 6.7 Lushan thrust earthquake. Significantly, consistent simulation accuracy has been achieved across high‐ and low‐frequency bands as well as in far‐ and near‐fields. The consistent accuracy of the improved EXSIM in simulating high‐ and low‐frequency ground motions enables its direct and independent application to broadband ground motion simulations. Moreover, the first validation of this consistent accuracy in both near‐ and far‐field scenarios further enhances its application in earthquake engineering practices.
Phytoplankton Spring Bloom Inhibited by Marine Heatwaves in the North‐Western Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Li Mengyu , Organelli Emanuele , Serva Federico , Bellacicco Marco , Landolfi Angela , Pisano Andrea , Marullo Salvatore , Shen Fang , Mignot Alexandre , van Gennip Simon , Santoleri Rosalia
Published: October 2024

Marine heatwaves (MHWs) represent anomalously warm temperature conditions of seawater that may affect marine life and ocean biogeochemistry. Under such conditions, phytoplankton communities may modify their structure and functions, and their resilience is not assured. This study characterizes the impact of MHWs on the phytoplankton spring bloom in the North‐Western Mediterranean Sea. Here, we synergistically combine autonomous observations from BioGeoChemical‐Argo floats, satellite‐based and marine ecosystem model data, and show that MHW events occurring during winter drastically inhibit phytoplankton carbon biomass in spring by up to 70%. Such reduction is related to the enhanced stratification of the water column under MHWs which hinders the renewal of nutrients from deep‐ocean reservoirs, thus preventing surface phytoplankton from blooming. This process negatively impacts particulate organic carbon stocks within the mixed layer, while severe events cause an earlier shift of phytoplankton phenology that provokes changes in zooplankton biomass distribution.
Flow Evolution and Vertical Accelerations in Wave‐Swash Interactions
Authors: Meza‐Valle Claudio , Pujara Nimish
Published: October 2024

We report on a laboratory study of wave‐swash interactions, which occur in the very nearshore environment of a beach when the shallow swash flow of a breaking wave interacts with a subsequent wave. Wave‐swash interactions have been observed in the field, hypothesized to be important for nearshore transport processes, and categorized into different qualitative types, but quantitative descriptions of their dynamics have remained elusive. Using consecutive solitary waves with different wave heights and separations, we generate a wide variety of wave‐swash interactions with large flow velocities and vertical accelerations. We find that wave‐swash interactions can be quantitatively characterized in terms of two dimensionless parameters. The first of them corresponds to the wave height ratio for consecutive waves, and the second is a dimensionless measure of the time separation between consecutive wave crests. Using measurements of bed pressure and free‐surface displacement, we estimate the total vertical accelerations and focus on the peak upward‐directed acceleration. We find that wave‐swash interactions can generate vertical accelerations that can easily exceed gravity, despite occurring in very shallow water depths. The large vertical accelerations are upward‐directed and are quickly followed by onshore‐directed horizontal velocities. Together, our findings suggest that wave‐swash interactions are capable of inducing large material suspension events of sediment or solutes in sediment pores, and transporting them onshore. While the data are from a single location making it difficult to generalize the findings across the swash zone, the results clearly demonstrate the importance of large vertical accelerations in wave‐swash interactions.
Is neck pain a marker for something serious? Like myelopathy
Authors: Sial Alisha W. , Sima Stone , Narulla Rajpal , Najib Nashwa , Davies Mark , Diwan Ashish D.
Published: October 2024

Degenerative Cervical Myelopathy (DCM) is a chronic progressive condition of the cervical spine that leads to compression of the spinal cord. It is the most common cause of spinal cord dysfunction in adults, and it occurs due to age-related changes or genetically associated pathologies. DCM is a clinical and radiological diagnosis and presents with a spectrum of symptoms ranging from neck pain and stiffness to paralysis. While neck pain is prevalent amongst patients attending specialist clinics, its predictive value for DCM is limited. This paper focuses on elucidating the relationship between DCM and chronic neck pain, and we discuss the underlying aetiology and broader neurological implications in the context of the literature. The progression of DCM can be slow and insidious with symptoms worsening gradually over time. Neck pain should not be discounted in the evaluation of DCM.
Association of plasma arachidonic acid levels with a bipolar disorder and the effects of a FADS gene variant
Authors: Ashizawa Takuma , Saito Takeo , Okochi Tomo , Ninomiya Kohei , Ito Kenta , Aoki Rei , Ikeda Masashi , Iwata Nakao
Published: October 2024

Recent genome-wide association studies (GWASs) have identified fatty acid desaturase (FADS) genes, which code key enzymes involved in polyunsaturated fatty acid (PUFA) desaturation as susceptibility genes for bipolar disorder (BD). Several quantitative changes in PUFAs suggest their involvement in BD pathogenesis. Therefore, this study aimed to clarify the relationship between BD and PUFAs by conducting lipidomics covariating with the FADS gene variant (rs174550), which is associated with PUFA levels and BD susceptibility. The concentrations of 23 fatty acids were measured using plasma samples from the BD group (n = 535) and the control group (n = 107). Differences in each PUFA concentration ratio were compared between the two groups. Also, differences in each PUFA concentration ratio were compared for each genotype in rs174550. Our results showed that the BD group had significantly lower concentrations of linoleic acid (LA) (β = −0.36, p = 0.023) and arachidonic acid (AA) (β = −0.18, p = 0.013) than the control group. Concerning the effect of FADS on the PUFA concentration ratio, carriers of C-allele at rs174550 had significantly decreased γ-linolenic acid and AA concentration ratios. A previous GWAS reported that the presence of a C-allele at rs174550 increased the BD risk. This direction is consistent with the lipidomic results of the present study. In conclusion, both the FADS and BD were considered to regulate the AA concentration. Thus, as the FADS gene variant is crucial for conducting lipidomics of BD we believe that the allele frequency of FADS must be analyzed.
SOX4 facilitates brown fat development and maintenance through EBF2-mediated thermogenic gene program in mice
Authors: Wang Shuai , He Ting , Luo Ya , Ren Kexin , Shen Huanming , Hou Lingfeng , Wei Yixin , Fu Tong , Xie Wenlong , Wang Peng , Hu Jie , Zhu Yu , Huang Zhengrong , Li Qiyuan , Li Weihua , Guo Huiling , Li Boan
Published: October 2024

Brown adipose tissue (BAT) is critical for non-shivering thermogenesis making it a promising therapeutic strategy to combat obesity and metabolic disease. However, the regulatory mechanisms underlying brown fat formation remain incompletely understood. Here, we found SOX4 is required for BAT development and thermogenic program. Depletion of SOX4 in BAT progenitors (Sox4-MKO) or brown adipocytes (Sox4-BKO) resulted in whitened BAT and hypothermia upon acute cold exposure. The reduced thermogenic capacity of Sox4-MKO mice increases their susceptibility to diet-induced obesity. Conversely, overexpression of SOX4 in BAT enhances thermogenesis counteracting diet-induced obesity. Mechanistically, SOX4 activates the transcription of EBF2, which determines brown fat fate. Moreover, phosphorylation of SOX4 at S235 by PKA facilitates its nuclear translocation and EBF2 transcription. Further, SOX4 cooperates with EBF2 to activate transcriptional programs governing thermogenic gene expression. These results demonstrate that SOX4 serves as an upstream regulator of EBF2, providing valuable insights into BAT development and thermogenic function maintenance.
GRHL2 regulates keratinocyte EMT-MET dynamics and scar formation during cutaneous wound healing
Authors: Chen Tianying , Zhang Bo , Xie Hanqi , Huang Chenyu , Wu Qiong
Published: October 2024

After cutaneous wounds successfully heal, keratinocytes that underwent the epithelial-mesenchymal transition (EMT) regain their epithelial characteristics, while in scar tissue, epidermal cells persist in a mesenchymal state. However, the regulatory mechanisms governing this reversion are poorly understood, and the impact of persistent mesenchymal-like epidermal cells in scar tissue remains unclear. In the present study, we found that during wound healing, the regulatory factor GRHL2 is highly expressed in normal epidermal cells, downregulated in EMT epidermal cells, and upregulated again during the process of mesenchymal-epithelial transition (MET). We further demonstrated that interfering with GRHL2 expression in epidermal cells can effectively induce the EMT. Conversely, the overexpression of GRHL2 in EMT epidermal cells resulted in partial reversion of the EMT to an epithelial state. To investigate the effects of failed MET in epidermal cells on skin wound healing, we interfered with GRHL2 expression in epidermal cells surrounding the cutaneous wound. The results demonstrated that the persistence of epidermal cells in the mesenchymal state promoted fibrosis in scar tissue, manifested by increased thickness of scar tissue, deposition of collagen and fibronectin, as well as the activation of myofibroblasts. Furthermore, the miR-200s/Zeb1 axis was perturbed in GRHL2 knockdown keratinocytes, and transfection with miR-200s analogs promoted the reversion of EMT in epidermal cells, which indicates that they mediate the EMT process in keratinocytes. These results suggest that restoration of the epithelial state in epidermal cells following the EMT is essential to wound healing, providing potential therapeutic targets for preventing scar formation.
Unrecognised actionability for breast cancer risk variants identified in a national-level review of Australian familial cancer centres
Authors: Fortuno Cristina , Cops Elisa J. , Davidson Aimee L. , Hadler Johanna , Innella Giovanni , McKenzie Maddison E. , Parsons Michael , Campbell Ainsley M. , Dubowsky Andrew , Fargas Verna , Field Michael J. , Mar Fan Helen G. , Nichols Cassandra B. , Poplawski Nicola K. , Warwick Linda , Williams Rachel , Beshay Victoria , Edwards Caitlin , Johns Andrea , McPhillips Mary , Kumar Vanessa Siva , Scott Rodney , Williams Mark , Scott Hamish , James Paul A. , Spurdle Amanda B.
Published: October 2024

Breast cancer remains a significant global health challenge. In Australia, the adoption of publicly-funded multigene panel testing for eligible cancer patients has increased accessibility to personalised care, yet has also highlighted the increasing prevalence of variants of uncertain significance (VUS), complicating clinical decision-making. This project aimed to explore the spectrum and actionability of breast cancer VUS in Australian familial cancer centers (FCCs). Leveraging data from 11 FCCs participating in the Inherited Cancer Connect database, we retrieved VUS results from 1472 patients. Through ClinVar crosschecks and application of gene-specific ACMG/AMP guidelines, we showed the potential for reclassification of 4% of unique VUS as pathogenic or likely pathogenic, and 80% as benign or likely benign. Surveys conducted with FCCs and diagnostic laboratories described current practices and challenges in variant reclassifications, highlighting resource constraints preventing periodic VUS review and notifications from the laboratories to the FCCs. Our study suggests there are benefits to routine VUS review and reclassification, particularly in publicly-funded healthcare systems. Future research should focus on assessing the clinical impact and cost-effectiveness of implementing routine variant review practices, alongside efforts to enhance communication between FCCs and laboratories.
Guided bone regeneration improves defect fill and reconstructive outcomes in 3-wall peri-implantitis defects
Authors: Afrashtehfar Kelvin I. , Alfallaj Hayam A. , Fernandez Eduardo , Hussaini Souheil
Published: October 2024

Design

This multi-center, randomized clinical trial compared the long-term outcomes of guided bone regeneration (GBR) with open flap debridement (OFD) in treating peri-implantitis-related bony defects with ≥3 osseous walls over 36 months. The study aimed to evaluate the healing potential of GBR using a deproteinized bovine bone mineral (DBBM) graft and native bilayer collagen membrane (NBCM) compared to OFD without the use of graft materials.

Case selection

Sixty-six individuals diagnosed with peri-implantitis were randomly assigned to either GBR (34 patients) or OFD (32 patients). The OFD group served as the control, where inflamed tissue was removed and the implant surface decontaminated using 3% hydrogen peroxide, but no bone graft was placed. The GBR group received DBBM and NBCM for defect reconstruction. Radiographic defect fill (RDF), probing pocket depth (PPD), bleeding on probing (BOP), suppuration (SUP), mucosal recession (MREC), and patient-reported outcomes (PROs) were assessed over the study duration. Post-surgical care included azithromycin, ibuprofen, and chlorhexidine rinses.

Study timeline

The study involved baseline assessments, surgical interventions, and follow-ups at 6, 12, and 36 months. Supportive peri-implant therapy was provided every 3 months during the additional 24-month follow-up.

Data analysis

Primary outcome was RDF at 36 months. Secondary outcomes included PPD, BOP, SUP, MREC, and PROs. Descriptive statistics and ANCOVA models were used for analysis.

Results

At 36 months, GBR resulted in a mean RDF of 2.13  ±  1.26 mm, compared to 1.64  ±  1.54 mm with OFD (p  =  .18). No significant differences were found in PPD, BOP, SUP, REC, or PROs between the groups. Treatment success (defined as no additional bone loss, PPD ≤ 5 mm, no BOP, and no SUP) was achieved in 46.2% of GBR cases and 20% of OFD cases (p = 0.053).

Conclusions

GBR provided improved short-term defect fill and higher treatment success compared to OFD, although the differences were not statistically significant. Both procedures maintained clinical parameters over 36 months, with similar patient satisfaction (PROs) observed for GBR and OFD. The adjunct use of DBBM and NBCM may offer clinical benefits for peri-implantitis cases with specific bony defect morphology.
Posterior uveal biopsy and the trans-scleral Essen forceps biopsy technique
Authors: Otti Vanessa , Thaung Caroline , Mudhar Hardeep Singh , Damato Bertil , Sagoo Mandeep S. , Quhill Hibba
Published: October 2024

Background

Differentiating neoplastic and non-neoplastic uveal tumours can present a diagnostic challenge; intra-ocular biopsy may be necessary. The novel trans-scleral Essen Forceps biopsy (TSEB) technique can improve diagnostic yield compared to fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB). We present a case demonstrating the technique and its added value. We also review the success rate of TSEB performed at two tertiary eye centres.

Methods

Retrospective case report and consecutive case series from August 2021 to March 2023. Inclusion criteria were patients who underwent TSEB of posterior uveal lesions from Moorfields Eye Hospital and Sheffield Teaching Hospitals in the United Kingdom. The outcomes were biopsy success rate and complication rate

Results

Eleven biopsies met the inclusion criteria. Eight (73%) were successful, which comprised six uveal melanomas, one melanocytoma and one extranodal marginal zone (ENMZ) lymphoma. One TSEB did not yield tissue for histological examination because of perioperative sample handling. Two (18%) biopsies were histologically inconclusive; both were treated as uveal melanoma on clinical grounds or repeat biopsy. The only complication was vitreous loss and retinal hole without retinal detachment in one eye with a very posterior, shallow choroidal lesion.

Conclusion

TSEB is an effective alternative to established biopsy techniques, yielding larger tissue samples than FNAB with intact tissue architecture. We recommend adding TSEB to the armamentarium of the ocular oncologist.
The evolution and maintenance of trioecy with cytoplasmic male sterility
Authors: Nguyen M. T. , Pannell J. R.
Published: October 2024

Trioecy, the co-existence of females, males and hermaphrodites, is a rare sexual system in plants that may be an intermediate state in transitions between hermaphroditism and dioecy. Previous models have identified pollen limitation as a necessary condition for the evolution of trioecy from hermaphroditism. In these models, the seed-production and pollen production of females and males relative to those of hermaphrodites, respectively, are compromised by self-fertilization by hermaphrodites under pollen- limitation. Here, we investigate the evolution of trioecy via the invasion of cytoplasmic male sterility (CMS) into androdioecious populations in which hermaphrodites co-occur with males and where the male determiner is linked to a (partial) fertility restorer. We show that the presence of males in a population renders invasion by CMS more difficult. However, the presence of males also facilitates the maintenance of trioecy even in the absence of pollen limitation by negative frequency-dependent selection, because males reduce the transmission of CMS by females by siring sons (which cannot transmit CMS). We discuss our results in light of empirical observations of trioecy in plants and its potential role in the evolution of dioecy.
Accurate formation enthalpies of solids using reaction networks
Authors: Fromsejer Rasmus , Maribo-Mogensen Bjørn , Kontogeorgis Georgios M. , Liang Xiaodong
Published: October 2024

Crystalline solids play a fundamental role in a host of materials and technologies, ranging from pharmaceuticals to renewable energy. The thermodynamic properties of these solids are crucial determinants of their stability and therefore their behavior. The advent of large density functional theory databases with properties of solids has stimulated research on predictive methods for their thermodynamic properties, especially for the enthalpy of formation ΔfH. Increasingly sophisticated artificial intelligence and machine learning (ML) models have primarily driven development in this field in recent years. However, these models can suffer from lack of generalizability and poor interpretability. In this work, we explore a different route and develop and evaluate a framework for the application of reaction network (RN) theory to the prediction of ΔfH of crystalline solids. For an experimental dataset of 1550 compounds we are able to obtain a mean absolute error w.r.t ΔfH of 29.6 meV atom−1 using the RN approach. This performance is better than existing ML-based predictive methods and close to the experimental uncertainty. Moreover, we show that the RN framework allows for straightforward estimation of the uncertainty of the predictions.
Quantum state processing through controllable synthetic temporal photonic lattices
Authors: Monika Monika , Nosrati Farzam , George Agnes , Sciara Stefania , Fazili Riza , Marques Muniz André Luiz , Bisianov Arstan , Lo Franco Rosario , Munro William J. , Chemnitz Mario , Peschel Ulf , Morandotti Roberto
Published: October 2024

Quantum walks on photonic platforms represent a physics-rich framework for quantum measurements, simulations and universal computing. Dynamic reconfigurability of photonic circuitry is key to controlling the walk and retrieving its full operation potential. Universal quantum processing schemes based on time-bin encoding in gated fibre loops have been proposed but not demonstrated yet, mainly due to gate inefficiencies. Here we present a scalable quantum processor based on the discrete-time quantum walk of time-bin-entangled photon pairs on synthetic temporal photonic lattices implemented on a coupled fibre-loop system. We utilize this scheme to path-optimize quantum state operations, including the generation of two- and four-level time-bin entanglement and the respective two-photon interference. The design of the programmable temporal photonic lattice enabled us to control the dynamic of the walk, leading to an increase in the coincidence counts and quantum interference measurements without recurring to post-selection. Our results show how temporal synthetic dimensions can pave the way towards efficient quantum information processing, including quantum phase estimation, Boson sampling and the realization of topological phases of matter for high-dimensional quantum systems in a cost-effective, scalable and robust fibre-based setup.
Mutual gaze and movement synchrony boost observers’ enjoyment and perception of togetherness when watching dance duets
Authors: Cross Emily S. , Darda Kohinoor M. , Moffat Ryssa , Muñoz Lina , Humphries Stacey , Kirsch Louise P.
Published: October 2024

As social beings, we are adept at coordinating our body movements and gaze with others. Often, when coordinating with another person, we orient ourselves to face them, as mutual gaze provides valuable cues pertaining to attention and intentions. Moreover, movement synchrony and mutual gaze are associated with prosocial outcomes, yet the perceptual consequences of these forms of coordination remain poorly understood. Across two experiments, we assessed how movement synchrony and gaze direction influence observers’ perceptions of dyads. Observers’ behavioural responses indicated that dyads are perceived as more socially connected and are more enjoyable to watch when moving synchronously and facing each other. Neuroimaging results showed modulation of the Action Observation and Theory of Mind networks by movement synchrony and mutual gaze, with more robust brain activity when evaluating togetherness (i.e., active and intentional collaboration) than aesthetic value (i.e., enjoyment). A fuller understanding of the consequences of movement synchrony and mutual gaze from the observer’s viewpoint holds important implications for social perception, in terms of how observers intuit social relationships within dyads, and the aesthetic value derived from watching individuals moving in these ways.
Improving reuse during the development process for web systems
Authors: El-Halawany Ahmed M. , Elminir Hamdy K. , El-Bakry Hazem
Published: October 2024

Software reuse has emerged as a crucial practice in the software industry, offering significant benefits in time-to-market, and resources management. This is particularly pertinent in web systems development, where the integration of diverse technologies and the varied backgrounds of technical teams pose substantial challenges. The rapid expansion of web systems underscores the urgent need to adopt best practices and methodologies for web system reuse to streamline the development process, reducing effort, cost, and time. This paper aims to identify the key challenges of web system reuse in the context of small and medium-sized software companies in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. Using qualitative research methods, including interviews, focus groups, and participant observations, an empirical study was conducted to examine current reuse practices and understand the root causes of common challenges. Based on the results of the empirical study, a systematic approach was developed to enhance web system reuse during the development process in the context of small and medium-sized software companies in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. The proposed approach addresses critical gaps in current practices, offering practical guidelines to improve efficiency, reduce development time, and enhance overall software quality. This research contributes to the broader discourse on software reuse by providing context-specific insights and adaptable solutions that are relevant to similar markets worldwide.
A non-invasive predictive model based on multimodality ultrasonography images to differentiate malignant from benign focal liver lesions
Authors: Shen Qianqian , Wu Wei , Wang Ruining , Zhang Jiaqi , Liu Liping
Published: October 2024

We have developed a non-invasive predictive nomogram model that combines image features from Sonazoid contrast-enhanced ultrasound (SCEUS) and Sound touch elastography (STE) with clinical features for accurate differentiation of malignant from benign focal liver lesions (FLLs). This study ultimately encompassed 262 patients with FLLs from the First Hospital of Shanxi Medical University, covering the period from March 2020 to April 2023, and divided them into training set (n = 183) and test set (n = 79). Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent indicators and develop a predictive model based on image features from SCEUS, STE, and clinical features. The area under the receiver operating characteristic (AUC) curve was determined to estimate the diagnostic performance of the nomogram with CEUS LI-RADS, and STE values. The C-index, calibration curve, and decision curve analysis (DCA) were further used for validation. Multivariate and LASSO logistic regression analyses identified that age, ALT, arterial phase hyperenhancement (APHE), enhancement level in the Kupffer phase, and Emean by STE were valuable predictors to distinguish malignant from benign lesions. The nomogram achieved AUCs of 0.988 and 0.978 in the training and test sets, respectively, outperforming the CEUS LI-RADS (0.754 and 0.824) and STE (0.909 and 0.923) alone. The C-index and calibration curve demonstrated that the nomogram offers high diagnostic accuracy with predicted values consistent with actual values. DCA indicated that the nomogram could increase the net benefit for patients. The predictive nomogram innovatively combining SCEUS, STE, and clinical features can effectively improve the diagnostic performance for focal liver lesions, which may help with individualized diagnosis and treatment in clinical practice.
Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis (MAP) infection, and its impact on gut microbiome of individuals with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Ashraf Hajra , Dikarlo Plamena , Masia Aurora , Zarbo Ignazio R. , Solla Paolo , Ijaz Umer Zeeshan , Sechi Leonardo A.
Published: October 2024

The microbial ecology of Mycobacterium avium subspecies paratuberculosis infections (MAP) within the context of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) is largely an unexplored topic in the literature. Thus, we have characterized the compositional and predicted functional differences of the gut microbiome between MS patients with MAP (MAP+) and without (MAP−) infection. This was done in the context of exposome differences (through self-reported filled questionnaires), principally in anthropometric and sociodemographic patterns to gain an understanding of the gut microbiome dynamics. 16S rRNA microbiome profiling of faecal samples (n = 69) was performed for four groups, which differed by disease and MAP infection: healthy cohort (HC) MAP−; HC MAP+ ; MS MAP−; and MS MAP+ . Using a dynamic strategy, with MAP infection and time of sampling as occupancy models, we have recovered the core microbiome for both HC and MS individuals. Additional application of neutral modeling suggests key genera that are under selection pressure by the hosts. These include members of the phyla Actinobacteriota, Bacteroidota, and Firmicutes. As several subjects provided multiple samples, a Quasi Conditional Association Test that incorporates paired-nature of samples found major differences in Archaea. To consolidate treatment groups, confounders, microbiome, and the disease outcome parameters, a mediation analysis is performed for MS cohort. This highlighted certain genera i.e., Sutterella, Akkermansia, Bacteriodes, Gastranaerophilales, Alistipes, Balutia, Faecalibacterium, Lachnospiraceae, Anaerostipes, Ruminococcaceae, Eggerthellaceae and Clostridia-UCG-014 having mediatory effect using disease duration as an outcome and MAP infection as a treatment group. Our analyses indicate that the gut microbiome may be an important target for dietary and lifestyle intervention in MS patients with and without MAP infection.
The skimmed milk proteome of dairy cows is affected by the stage of lactation and by supplementation with polyunsaturated fatty acids
Authors: Veshkini Arash , Hammon Harald M. , Vogel Laura , Viala Didier , Delosière Mylène , Tröscher Arnulf , Déjean Sébastien , Ceciliani Fabrizio , Sauerwein Helga , Bonnet Muriel
Published: October 2024

The impact of nutritional modification to increase functional polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA), such as n-3 and n-6 fatty acids (FA) or conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), on milk proteome profile during early lactation remains largely unknown. We used an untargeted proteomics approach to investigate the impact of lactation day and PUFA supplementation on the proteome signature in skimmed milk over the course of early lactation. Sixteen Holstein dairy cows received abomasal infusion of saturated FA (CTRL) or a mixture of essential FA and CLA (EFA + CLA group) from − 63 to + 63 days relative to parturition. Using quantitative proteomics, 479 unique proteins were identified in skimmed milk at days 1, 28, and 63 postpartum. The top discriminating proteins between transition milk (day 1) and mature milk (days 28 and 63), including members of complements (i.e. C2 and C5), growth factor (TGFB2), lipoproteins (i.e. APOE and APOD), and chaperones (i.e. ST13 and CLU), are associated with calves’ immune system and gut development. The EFA + CLA supplementation moderately affected a few proteins associated with regulating mammary glands’ lipogenesis through the (re)assembly of lipoprotein particles, possibly under the PPAR signaling pathway. Collectively, skimmed milk proteome is dynamically regulated initially by cow’s metabolic and physiological changes and to a lesser extent by nutritional PUFA modifications.
A recent surge in global warming is not detectable yet
Authors: Beaulieu Claudie , Gallagher Colin , Killick Rebecca , Lund Robert , Shi Xueheng
Published: October 2024

The global mean surface temperature is widely studied to monitor climate change. A current debate centers around whether there has been a recent (post-1970s) surge/acceleration in the warming rate. Here we investigate whether an acceleration in the warming rate is detectable from a statistical perspective. We use changepoint models, which are statistical techniques specifically designed for identifying structural changes in time series. Four global mean surface temperature records over 1850–2023 are scrutinized within. Our results show limited evidence for a warming surge; in most surface temperature time series, no change in the warming rate beyond the 1970s is detected despite the breaking record temperatures observed in 2023. As such, we estimate the minimum changes in the warming trend required for a surge to be detectable. Across all datasets, an increase of at least 55% is needed for a warming surge to be detectable at the present time.
Complement-mediated killing of Escherichia coli by mechanical destabilization of the cell envelope
Authors: Benn Georgina , Bortolini Christian , Roberts David M , Pyne Alice L B , Holden Séamus , Hoogenboom Bart W
Published: October 2024

Complement proteins eliminate Gram-negative bacteria in the blood via the formation of membrane attack complex (MAC) pores in the outer membrane. However, it remains unclear how outer membrane poration leads to inner membrane permeation and cell lysis. Using atomic force microscopy (AFM) on living Escherichia coli (E. coli), we probed MAC-induced changes in the cell envelope and correlated these with subsequent cell death. Initially, bacteria survived despite the formation of hundreds of MACs that were randomly distributed over the cell surface. This was followed by larger-scale disruption of the outer membrane, including propagating defects and fractures, and by an overall swelling and stiffening of the bacterial surface, which precede inner membrane permeation. We conclude that bacterial cell lysis is only an indirect effect of MAC formation; outer membrane poration leads to mechanical destabilization of the cell envelope, reducing its ability to contain the turgor pressure, leading to inner membrane permeation and cell death.