bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
In comparison with polypectomy, colorectal resection is associated with improved survival for patients diagnosed with malignant polyps
Authors: Zammit Andrew P. , Hooper John D. , Brown Ian , Clark David A. , Riddell Andrew D.
Published: October 2022

Aim

Patients diagnosed with a malignant polyp generally have favourable overall survival (OS) and cancer‐specific survival (CSS). However, it is unclear how choice in management for malignant polyps may affect survival.

Methods

Data from the Queensland Oncology Repository was analysed to derive a population wide assessment of the impact of management strategy on OS and CSS for patients diagnosed with malignant polyps. Log‐rank testing, Kaplan–Meier and Cox‐regression models were performed. Patients were matched using propensity score and Mahalanobis distance matching.

Results

A total of 1,646 patients were included with 240 deaths and 52 colorectal cancer related deaths until censor date. Following propensity score and Mahalanobis distance matching of patients undergoing polypectomy alone versus colorectal resection, there was no significant difference in the age groups (<60 years of age or ≥60 years of age), American Society of Anesthesiology score, comorbidity count or Association of ColoProctology of Great Britain and Ireland risk category. However, of note Log‐rank testing demonstrated a significant difference in OS (p < 0.001) and CSS (p = 0.0061) between management strategies. Multivariable Cox‐regression models in matched and un‐matched patient cohorts demonstrated significantly lower hazards of death for OS with resection (p < 0.001). However, CSS was no longer significantly different between management groups in multivariable Cox‐regression analysis (p = 0.073).

Conclusion

Patients who underwent colorectal resection had significantly improved OS and CSS compared with polypectomy alone. Improved OS was furthermore seen on multivariable analysis, and in matched cohorts. Future research should investigate why this unexpected finding may be the case and whether updates to guidelines should be considered.
How Does Topicality Affect the Choice of Referential Form? Evidence From Mandarin
Authors: Lam Suet‐Ying , Hwang Heeju
Published: October 2022

Many models of reference production suggest that speakers tend to use a reduced referential form, such as a pronoun, to signal the topicality of a particular referent, that is, the Topichood Hypothesis. However, little is known about the precise nature of the mapping between topichood and referential form and the mechanisms by which topichood affects referential form. The current study aims to address these issues by investigating how topicality influences different kinds of reduced expressions, namely, null and overt pronouns in Mandarin. We manipulated topicality using a left‐dislocation structure in Experiment 1. We found that topicality increased the use of null pronouns, but not overt pronouns. This suggests that topicality may increase only the most reduced expression available in a given language. Experiment 2 examined whether the topicality effect was related to predictability. We found that participants used more null pronouns for less predictable referents. We suggest that the topicality effect could be better explained by an accessibility mechanism.
Neuromodulation and the toolkit for behavioural evolution: can ecdysis shed light on an old problem?
Authors: Sullivan Luis F. , Barker Matthew S. , Felix Princess C. , Vuong Richard Q. , White Benjamin H.
Published: October 2022

The geneticist Thomas Dobzhansky famously declared: ’Nothing in biology makes sense except in the light of evolution’. A key evolutionary adaptation of Metazoa is directed movement, which has been elaborated into a spectacularly varied number of behaviours in animal clades. The mechanisms by which animal behaviours have evolved, however, remain unresolved. This is due, in part, to the indirect control of behaviour by the genome, which provides the components for both building and operating the brain circuits that generate behaviour. These brain circuits are adapted to respond flexibly to environmental contingencies and physiological needs and can change as a function of experience. The resulting plasticity of behavioural expression makes it difficult to characterize homologous elements of behaviour and to track their evolution. Here, we evaluate progress in identifying the genetic substrates of behavioural evolution and suggest that examining adaptive changes in neuromodulatory signalling may be a particularly productive focus for future studies. We propose that the behavioural sequences used by ecdysozoans to moult are an attractive model for studying the role of neuromodulation in behavioural evolution.
Accessibility and visibility of genetic testing for haemophilia across Europe: Where do we stand?
Authors: Lannoy Nathalie , Hermans Cedric
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Haemophilia is characterized by bleeding complications resulting from clotting factor VIII (FVIII) or IX (FIX) deficiency. Identifying the causal pathogenic genetic variant denotes a vital aspect of haemophilia management.

Aim

This study evaluated the accessibility and performances of genetic testing for haemophilia across Europe. The types of genetic analyses, techniques used, turn‐around time (TAT) and costs were collected and analysed, as were data updating and quality control.

Methods

Reported data were retrieved from open access resources, including international databases, Google, laboratory websites, PubMed and government organizations.

Results

Overall, 51 genetic laboratories across 15 European countries providing recently updated molecular haemophilia testing were identified. Gene sequencing for small variants of both F8 and F9 genes was provided in most surveyed laboratories. Almost two‐thirds of them offer analysis for inversions using a polymerase chain reaction (PCR) method and detection of copy number variation (CNV) using multiplex ligation‐dependent probe amplification (MLPA). Cost and TAT were found to vary considerably. In total, 74% of laboratories exhibited a last modified date or change history. The same percentage of laboratories was in possession of an ISO 15189 standard accreditation, whereas only few of them recently performed external quality assessment schemes (EQA) for haemophilia.

Conclusion

Despite several initiatives to improve access to genetic testing for haemophilia, such access must still be improved. Our study similarly revealed the large heterogeneity of the variants tested, techniques employed, TAT, cost and quality among the surveyed laboratories.
The Realisation of I‐we
Authors: Masvie Andreas E.
Published: October 2022

Ever since Plato, a tragic conception of the human self has been the point de depart of moral and political philosophy: the I and the we belong to one another yet oppose each other. Ancients such as Aristotle contended that the we is ontologically prior and moderns such as Hobbes that the I is ontologically prior. I make the case that Jesus Christ realised an ontology which collapses this dichotomy: the human self is neither I nor we, but fundamentally I‐we. I demonstrate that this is an ontology of gift‐dynamics, made explicit in the mythical complex of the cult centring on Jesus Christ, and engraved unto this cult's heart through ritual.
Gianni Vattimo on the Problem of Evil
Authors: Harris Matthew Edward
Published: October 2022

The problem of evil asks why an all‐loving, all‐powerful God would permit evil and suffering. Gianni Vattimo, a postmodern philosopher influenced by Nietzsche and Heidegger, returned to religion in the 1990s, but only addressed the concept of evil in a sustained fashion some twenty years later. Vattimo’s contribution to the problem of evil addresses the problem circuitously by analysing the concept of evil and by bringing in theological concept of grace, albeit rethinking these concepts in accordance with his own philosophical style of ‘weak thought’. This article applies Vattimo’s understanding of evil and grace to the problem of evil, comparing his approach to Pareyson’s and analysing the extent to which Vattimo’s understanding of evil enables someone drawing upon his weak thought to provide an appropriate response to the problem of evil.
Kikuchi disease with an exuberant proliferation of large T‐cells: a study of 25 cases that can mimic T‐Cell lymphoma
Authors: Yu Fang , Ba Xiaoqun , Yang Hanjin , Huang Ke , Zhang Yafei , Zhang Han , Xu Liming , Wang Jinghan , Wang Lijun , Wang Zhaoming , Fang Hong , Medeiros L Jeffrey , Wang Wei
Published: October 2022

Exuberant large T‐cell proliferations in Kikuchi disease can potentially be misdiagnosed as lymphoma. In this study, we explore their clinicopathological features and summarize key points that can be used to distinguish them from T‐cell lymphoma. The cohort consisted of 25 cases of Kikuchi disease with an exuberant large T‐cell proliferation, which, in part, mimicked lymphoma. The median age was 25 years with a female:male ratio of 4:1. By B‐scan ultrasonography, patients presented with either isolated lymphadenopathy (68%) involving the cervical and axillary regions or generalized lymphadenopathy (32%). Histologically, lymph nodes showed paracortical and interfollicular expansion by sheets of large cells associated with karyorrhectic debris. Histiocytes and plasmacytoid dendritic cells were present in the background. No case showed complete effacement of lymph node architecture. The large cells were CD8‐positive cytotoxic T‐cells with a high proliferation rate. These T‐cells showed decreased BCL‐2 in 17 (68%) cases. CD5 expression was decreased in 10 (40%) cases. Histiocytes in the background were positive for myeloperoxidase. Clonal TRG and/or TRB rearrangements were detected in 2 of 10 (20%) cases. In conclusion, large T‐cell proliferations in Kikuchi disease can be alarming at the morphologic and immunophenotypic levels and need to be distinguished from T‐cell lymphoma. Clinical features helpful in the differential diagnosis include young patients and lymphadenopathy involving the cervical and axillary regions. Major pathologic features helpful in this differential diagnosis include partial involvement of the lymph node and the presence of karyorrhectic debris, crescent‐shaped histiocytes, and/or loose aggregates of plasmacytoid dendritic cells.
Using techniques of neutralisation to maintain contact: The experiences of loved ones supporting remand prisoners
Authors: Masson Isla , Booth Natalie
Published: October 2022

This article proposes that loved ones supporting prisoners with experience of remand in England and Wales may use Sykes & Matza's (1957) ‘techniques of neutralization’ by proxy. Adopting neutralisations may enable those in prison to be viewed not as those who have harmed, or bad people, but as those who themselves have been harmed. Potential benefits of these techniques are twofold: they help to reject stigma; and explain and enable continued contact. This framework may be a useful basis for work exploring familial contact and support for those affected by imprisonment.
Zircon trace‐element compositions in Miocene granitoids in Japan: Discrimination diagrams for zircons in M‐, I‐, S‐, and A‐type granites
Authors: Sawaki Yusuke , Asanuma Hisashi , Sakata Shuhei , Abe Mariko , Ohno Takeshi
Published: October 2022

Detrital zircons demonstrate high resistance to alteration and, as such retain information about their formation ages and parental magmas for a long period of time. Geochemical researchers have proposed a wide variety of discrimination diagrams applicable to detrital zircons. In our research, we focused on the conventional classification scheme for granites (Mantle, M; Igneous, I; Sedimentary, S; and Alkaline, A types) and sought to characterize zircon trace‐element compositions that are sensitive to differences among these granite types. To accomplish this, we examined trace‐element compositions of zircons extracted from granitoids in the Ohmine granitic rocks and the Ashizuri plutonic complex in southwestern Japan. The zircons showed systematic differences in Nb/P, Ta/P, Ce/P, Ce/Nd, Y/P, Th/U, and Sc/Yb ratios and the Eu anomaly. Zircons in A‐type granite are rich in Nb, Ta, Ce, and Y, and their signatures clearly reflect those elements in their parental bodies. Sc/Yb ratios of zircons in A‐type granites are <0.1, which is similar to those of ocean‐island‐type zircons. Despite their high abundance at the whole‐rock level, zircons in S‐type granite are characterized by low Nb/P, Ta/P, and Th/U ratios. This is attributable to the depletion of Nb, Ta, and Th in the magma by ilmenite and monazite prior to zircon crystallization. In general, S‐type granitic magmas exhibit reducing environments, which decrease the proportions of Ce4+ and Eu3+. These effects lead to a low Ce/Nd ratio and a large negative Eu anomaly in S‐type zircons. On the basis of these findings, we recommend the combined use of Nb/P–Ce/P or Ta/P–Ce/P crossplots and of Sc/Yb ratios to discriminate zircons in M‐, I‐, S‐, and A‐type granites. Although the crossplots are created using data from Miocene granitoids in Japan, the discrimination diagrams are based on the general features of each type of granite.
Variability among commercial batches of normal pooled plasma in lupus anticoagulant testing
Authors: Cabo Julien , Morimont Laure , Baudar Justine , Guldenpfennig Maité , Jacqmin Hugues , Soleimani Reza , Lecompte Thomas , Douxfils Jonathan , Mullier François
Published: October 2022

Introduction

Lupus anticoagulant (LA) testing requires normal pooled plasma (NPP) in performing mixing studies and can be used for normalized ratios of clotting times (CTs). The aims were to demonstrate whether significant differences in clotting times between two batches of a same commercial NPP (CRYOcheck™) directly affect NPP‐based cut‐off values.

Methods

Diluted Russell Viper venom time (DRVVT) and activated partial thromboplastin time (aPTT) were used for LA testing. Screening, mixing and confirm tests were performed with Stago® instruments and reagents. Two batches of commercial NPP (A1291 and A1301 from CRYOcheck™; frozen) were compared in the determination of cut‐off values. Cut‐off values were defined as 99th percentile values of 60 healthy donors and compared with Mann–Whitney U test.

Results

Cut‐off values obtained with the two NPP batches were significantly different for DRVVT (screen normalized ratio: 1.09 vs. 1.24, screen mix: 41.9 s vs. 38.9 s; index of circulating anticoagulant: 5.0 vs. 8.4; all had p‐value <.001). On the contrary, no significant differences were observed for aPTT (screen normalized ratio: 1.32 vs. 1.34; p‐value = .4068, screen mix: 37.8 s vs. 38.1 s; p‐value = .1153) except for index of circulating anticoagulant: 9.6 versus 10.4 (p‐value <.05).

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that differences between two commercial NPP batches produced by a same manufacturer influenced LA cut‐off values used for mixing studies and normalized ratios. Adequate cut‐off setting, taking into account NPP CTs, is important to provide accurate conclusion about the presence or absence of a LA and avoid potential clinical impact.
Short‐term complications and post‐acute sequelae in hospitalized paediatric patients with COVID‐19 and obesity: A multicenter cohort study
Authors: Valenzuela Gonzalo , Alarcón‐Andrade Gonzalo , Schulze‐Schiapacasse Clara , Rodríguez Rocío , García‐Salum Tamara , Pardo‐Roa Catalina , Levican Jorge , Serrano Eileen , Avendaño María José , Gutiérrez Monserrat , Godoy Loreto , Céspedes Pamela , Bermudez Sandra , Aravena Javiera , Nicolaides Irini , Martínez Eliana , Gómez‐Canobbio Constanza , Jofré Macarena , Salinas Andrea , Depaoli Daniela , Loza Carolina , Muñoz Andrés , Ormazábal Natalia , Manzur Diana , Barriga José , Almonacid Leonardo I. , Poblete‐Cárdenas Estefany , Salinas Erick , Muñoz‐Marcos Andrés , Barja Salesa , Medina Rafael A.
Published: October 2022

Background

Obesity increases the severity of coronavirus disease 2019 illness in adults. The role of obesity in short‐term complications and post‐acute sequelae in children is not well defined.

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between obesity and short‐term complications and post‐acute sequelae of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection in hospitalized paediatric patients.

Methods

An observational study was conducted in three tertiary hospitals, including paediatric hospitalized patients with a confirmatory SARS‐CoV‐2 RT‐PCR from March 2020 to December 2021. Obesity was defined according to WHO 2006 (0–2 years) and CDC 2000 (2–20 years) growth references. Short‐term outcomes were intensive care unit admission, ventilatory support, superinfections, acute kidney injury, and mortality. Neurological, respiratory, and cardiological symptoms and/or delayed or long‐term complications beyond 4 weeks from the onset of symptoms were considered as post‐acute sequalae. Adjusted linear, logistic regression and generalized estimating equations models were performed.

Results

A total of 216 individuals were included, and 67 (31.02%) of them had obesity. Obesity was associated with intensive care unit admission (aOR = 5.63, CI95% 2.90–10.94), oxygen requirement (aOR = 2.77, CI95% 1.36–5.63), non‐invasive ventilatory support (aOR = 6.81, CI95% 2.11–22.04), overall superinfections (aOR = 3.02 CI95% 1.45–6.31), and suspected bacterial pneumonia (aOR = 3.00 CI95% 1.44–6.23). For post‐acute sequalae, obesity was associated with dyspnea (aOR = 9.91 CI95% 1.92–51.10) and muscle weakness (aOR = 20.04 CI95% 2.50–160.65).

Conclusions

In paediatric hospitalized patients with COVID‐19, severe short‐term outcomes and post‐acute sequelae are associated with obesity. Recognizing obesity as a key comorbidity is essential to develop targeted strategies for prevention of COVID‐19 complications in children.
Age‐related macular degeneration: A disease of extracellular complement amplification
Authors: de Jong Sarah , Tang Jiaqi , Clark Simon J.
Published: October 2022

Age‐related macular degeneration (AMD) is a major cause of vision impairment in the Western World, and with the aging world population, its incidence is increasing. As of today, for the majority of patients, no treatment exists. Multiple genetic and biochemical studies have shown a strong association with components in the complement system and AMD, and evidence suggests a major role of remodeling of the extracellular matrix underlying the outer blood/retinal barrier. As part of the innate immune system, the complement cascade acts as a first‐line defense against pathogens, and upon activation, its amplification loop ensures a strong, rapid, and sustained response. Excessive activation, however, can lead to host tissue damage and cause complement‐associated diseases like AMD. AMD patients present with aberrant activation of the alternative pathway, especially in ocular tissues but also on a systemic level. Here, we review the latest findings of complement activation in AMD, and we will discuss in vivo observations made in human tissue, cellular models, the potential synergy of different AMD‐associated pathways, and conclude on current clinical trials and the future outlook.
A supply chain management framework for services
Authors: Enz Matias G. , Lambert Douglas M.
Published: October 2022

While services represent the largest sector of the global economy, 86.8% in the United States, most supply chain management (SCM) research is focused on product flows. Executives in manufacturing firms have benefited from frameworks created to implement SCM processes, but this is not the case for their counterparts in service companies. The two most cited SCM frameworks for services have methodological and conceptual deficiencies. Drawing upon the service‐dominant logic of marketing and using an empirical research approach, we developed supply chain structure maps for nine service firms. Our findings indicate that the supply chain structure maps of service companies are comparable to those in the product‐based literature, which supports the service‐dominant logic. Then, we identified the six key processes that constitute a framework to manage service supply chains. The customer relationship management and the supplier relationship management processes form the critical links in the supply chain, and the other four processes are coordinated through this linkage. The SCM framework for services provides direction for executives in service firms who need to increase cross‐functional integration within their firms and with other members of the supply chain. For academics, 12 avenues for future research are identified.
The United Kingdom: Turning its Back on Influencing the EU?
Authors: Phinnemore David
Published: October 2022

Withdrawal from the European Union (EU) has seen the United Kingdom (UK) abandon membership of and formal influence over policy making in the EU and pursue a policy of disintegration from and minimal commitments towards the EU. Although the UK–EU Trade and Cooperation Agreement is strikingly lacking in ambition, it does involve a dense and complex institutional framework to manage relations. Moreover, the post‐Brexit UK–EU relationship includes a unique set of arrangements that keep Northern Ireland in the EU's customs territory and internal market for goods. These arrangements involve dynamic regulatory alignment and are managed by a dedicated institutional set‐up that has the potential at least to provide the UK ‘in respect of Northern Ireland’ with a particular decision‐shaping role with regard to applicable areas of the EU acquis. This article considers the initial operation of these sets of institutional frameworks and their potential for UK influence over the EU.
Association between complementary food introduction before age 4 months and body mass index at age 5–7 years: A retrospective population‐based longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Ha Eun Kyo , Kim Ju Hee , Baek Hey‐Sung , Lee Eun , Baek Ji Hyeon , Shim Somin , Kim Young Hyeon , Moreno Luis A. , Lee Seung Won , Han Man Yong
Published: October 2022

Background

The optimal time of starting complementary foods (CFs) in infants remains a subject of debate. This population‐based longitudinal cohort study evaluated the association between early CF introduction and body mass index (BMI) in children aged 5–7 years.

Methods

The present study included 917,707 children born in Korea during 2008–2009. Initial timing of CF introduction was obtained by questionnaires administered between 4 and 6 months and 9 and 12 months of age. The cohort consisted of 154,565 eligible individuals who properly completed the screening programme, including structured questionnaires, anthropometric measurements and physical examinations. To balance baseline characteristics, children were subjected to propensity score matching based on 95 covariates, including indicators of baseline health such as perinatal condition, birth weight, economic status, clinical disease and drug exposure. Exposure was defined as introduction to CF at age < 4 months, and outcomes were overweight (BMI z‐score > 85th percentile) and obesity (BMI z‐score > 95th percentile) at ages 5–7 years.

Results

Of the 154,565 eligible children in the observed cohort, 10,499 (6.8%) were introduced to CF at age < 4 months and 144,066 (93.2%) at age ≥ 4 months. Propensity score matching yielded 9680 children introduced to CF at age < 4 months and 35,396 at age ≥ 4 months. The risk for being overweight or obese at age 5–7 years was slightly higher among those who started CF at age < 4 months than at age ≥4 months (adjusted relative risk = 1.06; 95% confidence interval = 1.02–1.09). A similar but stronger association was observed for being obese at age 5–7 years (adjusted relative risk = 1.12; 95% confidence interval = 1.05–1.19).

Conclusions

Early CF introduction before age 4 months was associated with increased BMI at age 5–7 years.
DEMETHYLATION REGULATOR 1 regulates DNA demethylation of the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes
Authors: Wang Zhen , Zheng Hao , Huang Jinguang , Yang Guodong , Yan Kang , Zhang Shizhong , Wu Changai , Zheng Chengchao
Published: October 2022

Active DNA demethylation effectively modulates gene expression during plant development and in response to stress. However, little is known about the upstream regulatory factors that regulate DNA demethylation. We determined that the demethylation regulator 1 (demr1) mutant exhibits a distinct DNA methylation profile at selected loci queried by methylation‐sensitive polymerase chain reaction and globally based on whole‐genome bisulfite sequencing. Notably, the transcript levels of the DNA demethylase gene REPRESSOR OF SILENCING 1 (ROS1) were lower in the demr1 mutant. We established that DEMR1 directly binds to the ROS1 promoter in vivo and in vitro, and the methylation level in the DNA methylation monitoring sequence of ROS1 promoter decreased by 60% in the demr1 mutant. About 40% of the hyper‐differentially methylated regions (DMRs) in the demr1 mutant were shared with the ros1‐4 mutant. Genetic analysis indicated that DEMR1 acts upstream of ROS1 to positively regulate abscisic acid (ABA) signaling during seed germination and seedling establishment stages. Surprisingly, the loss of DEMR1 function also caused a rise in methylation levels of the mitochondrial genome, impaired mitochondrial structure and an early flowering phenotype. Together, our results show that DEMR1 is a novel regulator of DNA demethylation of both the nuclear and mitochondrial genomes in response to ABA and plant development in Arabidopsis.
Clinical trial of a birth and parenting planning program for women diagnosed with fetal anomalies: A feasibility study
Authors: Chiba Maki Kitazono , Horiuchi Shigeko , Arimori Naoko
Published: October 2022

Aim

We assessed the feasibility of the Birth and Parenting Planning (BPPing) program we developed to support women diagnosed with fetal anomalies.

Methods

We conducted a feasibility study using a quasi‐experimental, post‐test only, non‐equivalent groups design. We assessed feasibility from four aspects: (1) Demand: birth plan submitting rate (primary outcome); (2) Acceptability: woman's satisfaction of care scale (SATISFACTION) and Visual Analog Scale for care satisfaction; (3) Preliminary efficacy: women's recognition of being able to express and share her hopes scale (HOPES); and (4) Safety: obstetric/neonatal outcomes and frequency of women's referral to a psychological counselor. Fisher's exact test and Mann–Whitney U‐test were used for data analysis.

Results

We enrolled 62 women with fetal anomalies attending a perinatal medical center for antenatal check‐ups. Of these, 51 women (median age: 34 years) received either the BPPing program (intervention group: n = 25) or the usual care (control group: n = 26). The birth plan submitting rates were 96% (intervention group, 24/25) and 7.7% (control group, 2/26). The intervention group had a significantly higher total score on HOPES at postpartum (U = 441.5, p = 0.027). Upon subgroup analysis based on parity, in the intervention group only, the multiparas had a higher score on the SATISFACTION item, “I would recommend the care I received to someone in a similar situation”. There were no adverse events in either group.

Conclusion

The BPPing program was feasible in supporting women diagnosed with fetal anomalies in terms of demand, acceptability, preliminary efficacy, and safety.
Proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 genetic screening using the vervet (Chlorocebus aethiops) model
Authors: Ngqaneka Thobile , Obikeze Kenechukwu , Magwebu Zandisiwe E. , Chauke Chesa G.
Published: October 2022

Background

The proprotein convertase subtilisin/kexin type 9 (PCSK9) gene has come to prominence due to its reported function in the clearance of low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol. The vervet monkey (Chlorocebus aethiops) was utilized to study the genetics of PCSK9 gene.

Method

Sixteen vervet monkeys were selected to screen for possible PCSK9 polymorphisms and to determine gene expression.

Results

Four PCSK9 sequence variants (T112T, R148S, H177N and G635G) were identified and three of these variants (H177N, R148S, and G635G) were categorized as loss of function mutations. A decline in gene expression levels was also observed in animals harboring these three variants. Although the selected variants might have affected the level of gene expression in the selected animals, individual variation was also noticed in some of these individuals with the G635G variant.

Conclusion

Based on the findings obtained from this study, it is suggestive that the activity of PCSK9 was hindered.
Characteristics of women who dropped out from pregnancy register in Okinawa, Japan: Findings from a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Uechi Ken , Arakaki Sugano , Sasaki Satoshi
Published: October 2022

Aim

There is little evidence regarding women who cannot register live births after pregnancy. We aimed to clarify the difference in baseline characteristics between women who registered live births and those who did not (i.e., dropout).

Methods

We assessed the birth cohort data of 1976 Japanese women who registered their pregnancies between July 2013 and March 2014 in Naha and Urasoe City, Okinawa, Japan. The database consisted of anthropometric data, reproductive history, sociodemographic characteristics, and dietary intake. We estimated the prevalence ratio to examine the associations of baseline characteristics with dropout by multivariable‐adjusted Poisson regression with robust standard error estimation.

Results

We identified 272 dropouts (13.8%) in the pregnancy registry. About 15% of women reported experience of alcohol drinking preceding 1 month of pregnancy registration. Most participants' vitamin B1 (92.1%) and folate (74.7%) consumption was inadequate considering the dietary reference intake for Japanese pregnant women, but it was not associated with a high prevalence of dropout. The prevalence of dropout was significantly higher in teenagers (prevalence ratio [PR] = 2.06, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.38–3.07) and early 20s (PR = 1.42, 95% CI 1.04–1.93) than in women in late 20s. In addition, alcohol consumption was potentially associated with a high prevalence of dropout (adjusted prevalence ratio [aPR] = 1.31, 95% CI 0.99–1.73). Participants who experienced one or more live births (aPR = 0.43, 95% CI 0.28–0.66) were less likely to dropout.

Conclusion

We found that the potential risk factors for dropout from pregnancy registration were young maternal age, no childbirth experience, and alcohol consumption.
Actual and volitional personality change across study abroad
Authors: Noftle Erik E. , Odagiri Noriko , Johnson Maya , Arzaga Andrew
Published: October 2022

Objectives

According to personality development theories, the dramatic environmental transition of study abroad may form a crucible for personality change. Location, social roles, and cultural familiarity suddenly shift, potentially disrupting old habits and creating new ones, building upon the typical maturation occurring during college age. The current study poses questions about selection and socialization effects of study abroad on personality, actual and volitional change in personality, and whether adjustment to study abroad catalyzes change.

Method

Longitudinal studies were conducted with Japanese students studying for one year in the USA (N = 300), and a comparison sample of students in an English‐language program at their university in Japan (N = 108). Big Five personality traits and trait‐relevant behavior were assessed at the beginning and end of the programs, along with three types of volitional change: expectations, perceptions, and desires.

Results

Study abroad showed selection effects for higher Extraversion and Emotional Stability traits and developmental and socialization effects of increases in Openness behavior. Expected and perceived change corresponded with actual change (but desired change did not), and cultural adjustment predicted socially desirable trait‐relevant behavior before students' return home.

Conclusions

Study abroad was revealed as an environment wherein students both subjectively experienced and actually demonstrated changes in trait‐relevant behavior.
Endogenous leadership and sustainability of enhanced cooperation in a repeated interactions model of tax competition: Endogenous leadership in tax competition
Authors: Itaya Jun‐ichi , Yamaguchi Chikara
Published: October 2022

In this study, the endogenous timing of moves is analyzed in an infinitely repeated game setting of capital tax competition between a subgroup (a tax union) of countries agreeing on partial tax harmonization and outside countries. It is shown that in a subgame perfect equilibrium of the infinitely repeated tax competition game, they simultaneously set capital taxes in every stage game when a tax union comprises similar countries with respect to productivity, whereas they may set capital taxes sequentially in every stage game when a tax union comprises dissimilar countries. This finding is significantly different from Ogawa (2013), although we also assume that capital is owned by the country's residents, as in Ogawa's model. This is because a disadvantaged member country of the tax union would suffer from larger losses when a tax union comprising dissimilar countries, and thus the tax union will choose the strategy of moving Late for the sake of sustaining tax harmonization to avoid such losses.
The impact of dentists' availability in delivering dental care in Florida Elementary Schools
Authors: Ma Simin , Serban Nicoleta , Dehghanian Amin , Tomar Scott L.
Published: October 2022

Objective

This study evaluates the dentists' availability to deliver preventive dental care to children in schools and the impact of school‐based programs on access.

Methods

The study population included Florida elementary‐school children, differentiated by dental insurance (Medicaid, CHIP, private, or none). We considered the implementation of school‐based programs using optimization modeling to (re)allocate the dentists' caseload to schools to meet demand for preventive care under resource constraints. We considered multiple settings for school‐based program implementation: (i) school prioritization; and (ii) dentists' participation in public insurance. Statistical inference was used to identify communities to improve access and reduce disparities.

Results

School‐based programs reduced unmet demand (3%–12%), being more efficient if prioritizing schools in communities targeted to improve access. The access improvement varied by insurance status and geography. Uninsured urban children benefited most from school‐based programs, with 15%–75% unmet need reduction. The percentage of urban communities targeted to improve access decreased by 12% against no‐school program. Such percentage remained large for suburban (15%–100%) and rural (50%–100%) communities. Disparity in access for public‐insured vs. private‐insured children persisted under school‐based programs (32%–84% identified communities).

Conclusion

School‐based programs improve dental care access; the improvement was however different by insurance status, with uninsured children benefiting the most. Accounting to the dentists' availability in prioritizing schools resulted in effective resource allocation to school‐based programs. Access disparities between public and private‐insured children did not improve; school‐based programs shifted resources from public‐insured to uninsured. School‐based programs are effective in addressing access barriers to those children experiencing them most.
Early identification of heart failure deterioration through respiratory monitoring with adaptive servo‐ventilation
Authors: Fox Henrik , Rudolph Volker , Munt Oliver , Malouf Gordon , Graml Andrea , Bitter Thomas , Oldenburg Olaf
Published: October 2022

Cardiac decompensation is associated with worse prognosis in patients with heart failure. Reliable methods to predict cardiac decompensation events are not yet available. Sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB) is a frequent comorbidity in heart failure, and it has been shown to correlate with heart failure severity. This prospective observational trial investigated SDB characteristics in patients with heart failure with the aim to identify patterns that may predict early cardiac decompensation. Patients with heart failure with diagnosed SDB and hospitalised for cardiac decompensation were prospectively enrolled and treated with adaptive servo‐ventilation (ASV). SDB characteristics, daily body weight and clinical cardiac decompensation events were collected over a 1‐year follow‐up. Clinical events were categorised by an independent clinical event committee. A total of 43 patients were enrolled (81% male, mean [SD] age 71 [11] years, body mass index 30 kg/m2, 95% New York Heart Association function class III or IV, mean [SD] left ventricular ejection fraction 37% [11%], median apnea–hypopnoea index [AHI] of 37 events/h). A total of 48 cardiac decompensation events were recorded during the 1‐year study period. Respiratory rate was found to be significantly lower in patients with cardiac decompensation. The AHI and applied inspiratory pressure ASV‐device support were significantly increased 10 days before a clinical cardiac decompensation event. Device usage was also found to be significantly decreased 2 nights before cardiac decompensation. Device‐derived respiratory data in ASV therapy devices for SDB may therefore serve as a monitoring tool to predict early clinical cardiac decompensation events. Prediction and avoidance of cardiac decompensation, in turn, may attenuate serious health consequences in patients with heart failure.
Street‐level immigrant policy implementation: The role of school counselors
Authors: Lauby Fanny , Ross Kelly
Published: October 2022

This article contributes to the literature on the pathways of incorporation of undocumented immigrants in the United States by providing insights into the perspectives of street‐level bureaucrats implementing policies seeking to increase college access at the state level. Results from a survey of public school counselors in New Jersey show that most counselors have limited knowledge of the policies that affect undocumented students' access to college, whether those policies concern attendance or eligibility for in‐state tuition and financial aid. Those who are familiar with these laws have usually sought specific professional development on their own rather than relying on training provided by their employers. The results also indicate that counselors who work in urban areas and in majority‐Latino institutions had greater knowledge of these policies than those working in suburban and rural areas or in predominantly white schools. This article highlights the role of place in the bureaucratic incorporation of undocumented immigrants at the state level, specifically investigating the type and level of services that this group receives in the public education system. We also contribute to the public policy literature by showing the effects of ad hoc implementation of inclusive policies by street‐level bureaucrats.
Associations between postprandial symptoms, hydrogen and methane production, and transit time in irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: Algera Joost P. , Colomier Esther , Melchior Chloé , Hreinsson Jóhann P. , Midenfjord Irina , Clevers Egbert , Simrén Magnus , Törnblom Hans
Published: October 2022

Background

Abnormal oroanal transit time (OATT) and visceral hypersensitivity are key pathophysiological factors in irritable bowel syndrome (IBS). The lactulose nutrient challenge test (LNCT) has been developed to assess the postprandial symptoms and gut microbial fermentation. We aimed to investigate associations between OATT, rectal sensitivity, and LNCT in IBS patients.

Methods

We included 263 IBS patients from two study cohorts, where the link between pathophysiology and symptoms was investigated. During the LNCT, severity of postprandial symptoms was graded, and breath hydrogen/methane concentrations were measured after ingestion of a combined lactulose nutrient drink every 15 min for 4 h. The patients underwent rectal sensitivity (rectal barostat) and OATT (radiopaque markers) investigations. Comorbid conditions (functional dyspepsia, anxiety, depression, and somatization) were assessed with questionnaires.

Key Results

After controlling for comorbid conditions, rectal sensitivity was associated with abdominal pain (p < 0.05), and more rapid OATT was associated with higher severity of abdominal discomfort, rumbling, nausea, and urgency (p < 0.05 for all) both pre‐ and post‐prandially. Postprandial nausea, urgency, and abdominal pain changed differently over time depending on OATT (p < 0.05 for all). OATT, but not rectal sensitivity, was associated with hydrogen and methane concentrations (p = 0.002 for both). Trajectories over time of postprandial symptoms and exhaled hydrogen/methane concentrations were correlated with different correlations depending on OATT.

Conclusion and Inferences

This study highlights the importance of oroanal transit and hydrogen and methane production in the pathophysiology of IBS and increases our understanding of pathophysiological factors involved in postprandial symptom generation. Treatments targeting oroanal transit and hydrogen and methane production may improve specific postprandial symptoms.
Factors associated with reduced visual acuity in myopes with and without ocular pathologies after optical correction
Authors: Manoharan Manoj K. , Thakur Swapnil , Dellhi Subalakshmi , Verkicharla Pavan K.
Published: October 2022

Purpose

Considering that a certain proportion of high myopes have reduced visual acuity even after full optical correction, this study aimed to investigate the association between various refractive error components (sphere, cylinder and axis orientation) and reduced visual acuity in individuals with low to high myopia with and without pathologic myopia lesions.

Methods

We analysed data from randomly selected eyes of 11,258 individuals with myopia (mean ± SD spherical equivalent (SE) −3.2 ± 2.9D; range: −0.5D to −21.5D). In total, 10,528 individuals had no pathologic myopia lesions. Sphere, cylinder and SE refraction were classified into mild, moderate and high categories. Astigmatism was defined as with‐the‐rule, against‐the‐rule or oblique based on the axis orientation. Reduced best‐corrected visual acuity was defined as ≥0.18 logMAR. Logistic regression was performed to test factors associated with reduced visual acuity with and without pathologic myopia lesions.

Result

Overall, 6.4% (N = 720/11,258) of myopes had reduced best‐corrected visual acuity. High sphere (≤−6.0D; Odd ratios [OR]: 16.1; 95% CI: 2.1–126.5), high cylinder (<−2.0 DC; OR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.8–3.4), against‐the‐rule (OR: 1.5; 95% CI: 1.1–2.0) and oblique astigmatism (OR: 1.6; 95% CI: 1.2–2.1) were significantly (p ≤ 0.008) associated with reduced visual acuity in the absence of pathologic myopia lesions. Both moderate SE and high myopic SE were also associated with reduced visual acuity. In the presence of pathologic myopia lesions, tessellated fundus (OR: 6.9; 95% CI: 3.5–14.1), chorioretinal atrophy (OR: 7.7; 95% CI: 2.6–19.9) and choroidal neovascularisation (OR: 37.4; 95% CI: 3.3–419.3) were significantly (p ≤ 0.003) associated with reduced visual acuity.

Conclusion

Even after full optical correction, both refractive components and pathologic myopia lesions can independently cause reduced visual acuity, regardless of the degree of myopia.
The Classification of Axial Deformity in Patients with Basilar Invagination
Authors: He Qiting , Cao Jiankang , Tian Huichao , Chen Bin , Fan Xincheng , Wang Shaoyi , Zhao Yunpeng , Wei Jianlu , Nie Lin , Pan Xin , Cheng Lei
Published: October 2022

Objective

To summarize the variation types of the axis in patients with basilar invagination (BI), then propose a classification scheme of the axis deformity.

Methods

From December 2013 to September 2020, 92 patients (male 42, female 50) who were diagnosed with BI were studied retrospectively. Based on the imaging data of CT, the width and height of the axis pedicle and the sagittal diameter of the lateral mass were measured in each patient. According to the development of axis pedicle and lateral mass, the types of axis variation were summarized, and then the classification scheme of axis deformity was put forward.

Results

All cases were analyzed and axis deformities were divided into four types. Type I: the axis is basically normal (53 cases, 57.6%). Type II: axis lateral mass is dysplasia (eight cases, 8.7%), which includes two subtypes: type IIA, the axis unilateral lateral mass is dysplasia (three cases); type IIB, the axis bilateral lateral masses are all dysplasia (five cases). Type III: axis pedicle is dysplasia (11 cases, 12%), which is subdivided into two subtypes: type IIIA, the axis unilateral pedicle is dysplasia (six cases); type IIIB, the axis bilateral pedicles are all dysplasia (five cases). Type IV: axis pedicle and lateral mass are all dysplasia (20 cases, 21.7%), this type contains the following four subtypes: type IVA, the unilateral axis pedicle and unilateral lateral mass (contralateral or ipsilateral) are all hypoplasia (four cases); type IVB, the unilateral axis pedicle and bilateral lateral masses are all hypoplasia (five cases); type IVC, the bilateral axis pedicles and unilateral lateral mass are all dysplasia (seven cases); type IVD, the bilateral axis pedicles and bilateral lateral masses are all dysplasia (four cases). The left and right abnormal lateral mass sagittal diameter (Type II) was (7.23 ± 1.39) mm and (5.96 ± 1.37) mm, respectively, the left and right abnormal pedicle width (Type III) was (2.61 ± 1.01) mm and (3.23 ± 0.66) mm, respectively, left and right abnormal pedicle height (Type III) was (5.43 ± 2.19) mm and (4.92 ± 1.76) mm, respectively. Moreover, the classification scheme has good repeatability and credibility.

Conclusions

The classification about axis deformity could provide personalized guidance for axis screw placement in the BI and other upper cervical surgery, and axis screw placement errors would be effectively avoided.
Effect of cholesterol‐loaded cyclodextrin treatment of bovine sperm on capacitation timing
Authors: LaVelle Gerica , Cairo Betsy , Barfield Jennifer P.
Published: October 2022

Pre‐loading bovine sperm with cholesterol prior to freezing is known to increase cryosurvival, though the timing of capacitation in these sperm has not been evaluated. The objective of this study was to determine if there is a potential delay in capacitation timing in these sperm due to the increased cholesterol content. Flow cytometric evaluation was utilized to assess viability, and stain technology to assess acrosome intactness (Propidium Iodide/FITC‐PNA), intracellular calcium levels (Propidium Iodide/FLUO 3‐AM) and membrane fluidity (Merocyanine 540/YO‐PRO‐1). Cholesterol‐loaded cyclodextrin (CLC) (2 mg/mL) improved post‐thaw viability to 61% from 45% in control sperm (p < .05). The addition of ionomycin (0.05 mM) induced capacitation in sperm by 1 h, resulting in increased intracellular calcium and increased acrosome reaction, and consequently viability loss by 3 h. Treatment with CLC significantly decreased membrane fluidity in sperm (p < .05). In conclusion, CLC‐treated sperm required 1 h more to capacitate when compared with non‐treated sperm based on percentage of live cells with high membrane disorder (p < .05). Increased cryosurvival and viability over time was observed, but longer time to capacitate may hinder fertilization capacity and/or require adjustments to timing of in vitro fertilization.