bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biochemical Investigation of the Association of Apolipoprotein E Gene Allele Variations with Insulin Resistance and Amyloid‐β Aggregation in Cardiovascular Disease
Authors: Jabeen Komal , Rehman Kanwal , Akash Muhammad Sajid Hamid , Hussain Amjad , Shahid Mudassar , Sadaf Bushra
Published: November 2024

This article investigates the intricate associations between apolipoprotein E (APOE) gene alleles variation, insulin resistance (IR) and amyloid‐β aggregation in cardiovascular disease (CVD) patients. A cohort of 250 patients exhibiting the symptoms of CVD and 50 control subjects participated in this study. After applying the stringent inclusion and exclusion criteria, the diseased group was further stratified into three categories: CVD+ (Alzheimer's disease) AD, CVD + (diabetes mellitus) DM and CVD + DM + AD. Blood samples were collected from all recruited participants for the biochemical analyses of lipid profile, glycaemic status, liver function enzymes, inflammatory and oxidative stress biomarkers. Tetra amplification‐refractory mutation system‐polymerase chain reaction (ARMS‐PCR) was employed for APOE gene analysis. Biochemical evaluations revealed the significant elevations in the serum levels of glucose, liver enzymes, interleukin‐6 (IL‐6), cholesterol, low‐density lipoproteins (LDL), triglycerides (TG) and malondialdehyde (MDA) in CVD + DM + AD group. Conversely, the serum levels of insulin, HDL and hexokinase decreased in CVD + DM + AD group compared to the controls and other CVD groups. Tetra ARMS‐PCR results indicated a higher percentage of the risk allele in CVD + DM + AD group when compared with the other groups. Our study elucidates the multifaceted cardiovascular risk factors contributing to IR and AD in CVD patients. Age‐related risk factors, prevalence of APOE risk alleles and the impact of statin use on AD incidences were identified. These findings underscore the need for tailored preventive measures, particularly in APOEε4 and ε3/ε4 carriers with CVD. Further studies should delve into the knowledge‐based protocols to comprehend the underlying mechanisms. Focusing on the therapeutic targets to prevent or delay DM and AD progression in CVDs, especially in APOEε4 carriers, is essential.
Wealth Accumulation: The Good, the Bad and the Ugly
Authors: Lansley Stewart
Published: November 2024

This article examines the social and economic impact of the greatly vaunted process of personal wealth accumulation. Recent decades have seen a significant surge in the level of privately owned wealth in the UK, other rich nations and globally. Yet this wealth boom is not associated with an historic boost in innovation and business performance or a faster rate of growth. The article examines the case for distinguishing between ‘good’ and ‘bad’ wealth. ‘Good’ wealth derives from activity which contributes to the common good and wider societal progress, while ‘bad’ wealth occurs when disproportionate and unmerited power is used to seize a larger slice of the economic pie at the expense of others. The evidence is that a significant proportion of growing wealth pools has come through appropriation and transfer, imposing widespread costs on society. Tackling this requires governments to adopt strategies to boost good and limit bad wealth accumulation.
The Golden Ticket? Widening Access in UK Medicine and the Making of an Emotional Proletariat
Authors: Ashley Louise
Published: November 2024

‘Widening Access’ in UK medicine seeks to improve access on the basis of socioeconomic background (SEB). However, evidence has emerged of ‘socially stratified’ careers, as doctors from less advantaged backgrounds are more likely to train in less competitive specialties, such as psychiatry or primary care. These patterns have been welcomed to date as this improves access to care, yet less positive consequences have been overlooked. Based on in‐depth interviews (n = 54) with medical students, qualified doctors and medical educators from less advantaged backgrounds (n = 38), this article asks how values influence medical careers, for what this can tell us about the causes of social stratification and how this informs status hierarchies within the profession. Using the work of Bourdieu, we find that while participants value empathy and compassionate care they believe both are less valuable when securing more competitive careers, and may signal less skill. This helps explain why doctors from less advantaged careers may prefer more community orientated roles, which are often less competitive, and why these specialties may also attract less status and respect. A related risk is that doctors from less advantaged backgrounds are over‐represented in areas imposing the highest emotional demands to become the profession's ‘emotional proletariat’.
Implementation of a National Prenatal Exome Sequencing Service in England: Cost‐Effectiveness Analysis
Authors: Smith Emma J. , Hill Melissa , Peter Michelle , Wu Wing Han , Mallinson Corinne , Hardy Steven , Chitty Lyn S. , Morris Stephen
Published: November 2024

Objective

Prenatal exome sequencing (pES) for diagnosing fetal structural anomalies commenced in the English National Health Service (NHS) in 2020. We evaluated cost‐effectiveness to the healthcare system, and costs to families, of pES in addition to standard testing, compared to standard testing alone.

Design

A cost‐effectiveness analysis combining costs, outcomes, parent and professional interview and professional survey data.

Setting

The English NHS Genomic Medicine Service.

Sample

413 families with fetal anomalies with a suspected genetic cause referred for pES from 01 October 2021 to 30 June 2022.

Methods

We costed the incremental resource required to deliver the pES clinical pathway. We calculated the diagnostic yield (proportion of cases with pathogenic variants). We divided the total incremental cost by the number of cases with a diagnosis to calculate cost‐effectiveness. We estimated the annual NHS budget requirement based on case numbers. We determined parental costs from interviews.

Main Outcome Measures

Incremental costs of pES to the NHS and families, incremental cost per additional diagnosis and NHS budget impact.

Results

Of 413 referred cases, 241 were tested, at a cost of £2331 (95% credibility interval £1894–£2856) per referred case or £3592 (£2959–£4250) per case that proceeded with testing. The incremental cost per diagnosis (yield 35.3%) was £11 326 (£8582–£15 361). Based on referrals data 01 October 2022 to 30 September 2023, pES costs the NHS £1.8 m annually. Family costs could not be separated from other pregnancy‐related appointments but were not considered burdensome; most appointments were concurrent or remote.

Conclusion

pES costs the English NHS £11 326 for each additional diagnosis. Incremental costs to families are negligible.
Using 360° immersive storytelling to engage communities with flood risk
Authors: Parsons Katie , Lloyd Williams Alison , Skinner Christopher
Published: November 2024

Communities worldwide face escalating flood risks due to climate change, a fact that emphasises the critical role of flood preparedness in community flood resilience. Globally, flood risk is expected to double by 2050. In the United Kingdom, where this study is set, approximately one property in six is already at risk of flooding, with that figure set to increase significantly in coming decades. Children and young people are often overlooked in work on flood resilience and response. Researchers working with flood‐affected children have learned from their experiences and supported them in telling their stories and sharing insights about how to best manage flood risk in the future. Here, we advance a research approach that co‐created with young people and teachers a suite of educational resources centred on using innovative 360° animation and immersive storytelling approaches. That work has allowed us to bring to life testimonies by children affected by flooding and to advance debates on how empathy can be amplified to widen engagement across a range of audiences and stakeholders. The tools we developed place the user in the centre of the child’s flood‐impacted world, something that has received relatively little attention. The results provide significant new insights on the use of 360° storytelling approaches that can prompt enhanced, empathic responses that motivate users to want to learn more about flooding, help create a sense of solidarity, and inspire action. We argue that such empathy‐driven, action‐oriented responses are crucial when developing future flood preparedness plans and enhancing broader community flood resilience.
Increased antibiotic resistance gene abundance linked to intensive bacterial competition in the phyllosphere across an elevational gradient
Authors: Ding Yihui , Ma Rui‐Ao , Zhang Ran , Zhang Hongwei , Zhang Jian , Li Shaopeng , Zhang Si‐Yu
Published: November 2024

Antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are ancient and widespread in natural habitats, providing survival advantages for microbiomes under challenging conditions. In mountain ecosystems, phyllosphere bacterial communities face multiple stress conditions, and the elevational gradients of mountains represent crucial environmental gradients for studying biodiversity distribution patterns. However, the distribution patterns of ARGs in the phyllosphere along elevational gradients, and their correlation with bacterial community structures, remain poorly understood. Here, we applied metagenomic analyses to investigate the abundance and diversity of ARGs in 88 phyllosphere samples collected from Mount Tianmu, a national natural reserve. Our results showed that the abundance of ARGs in the phyllosphere increased along elevational gradients and was dominated by multidrug resistance and efflux pumps. The composition of bacterial communities, rather than plant traits or abiotic factors, significantly affected ARG abundance. Moreover, increased ARG abundance was correlated with greater phylogenetic overdispersion and a greater proportion of negative associations in the bacterial co‐occurrence networks, suggesting that bacterial competition primarily shapes phyllosphere resistomes. These findings constitute a major advance in the biodiversity of phyllosphere resistomes along elevations, emphasizing the significant impact of bacterial community structure and assembly on ARG distribution, and are essential for understanding the emergence of ARGs.
Choice of assurance provider and impact on quality of sustainability reporting: Evidence from sustainability reporting restatements
Authors: Bentley‐Goode Kathleen A. , Simnett Roger , Thompson Anne , Trotman Andrew J.
Published: November 2024

Using data from 32 countries, we identify the determinants of assurance provider type (accounting firm versus non‐accounting firm) and examine whether assurance provider type is associated with sustainability reporting quality. We measure sustainability reporting quality via changes in metrics made to sustainability reports from the prior year and restatements to correct errors in previously issued sustainability reports. We find that accounting firm assurers are positively associated with changes in metrics and restatements of prior period errors. We also examine the association between assurance and the application level of Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) guidelines used to prepare the sustainability report. Both accounting and non‐accounting firm providers are associated with higher GRI application levels and increases in GRI application level. Together, these results suggest that non‐accounting firms focus more on the quantity of disclosures, while accounting firms emphasise both the quality and quantity of disclosures in sustainability reports in accordance with the GRI Reporting Framework. Among accounting firm providers, we find little difference in sustainability reporting quality between accounting firm assurers that do versus do not audit the financial statements. The results of this study provide important insights for practitioners and standard‐setters as to the value of sustainability assurance and the relative benefits of engaging accounting versus non‐accounting assurance providers.
Bugs and bytes: Entomological biomonitoring through the integration of deep learning and molecular analysis for merged community and network analysis
Authors: Suresh Mukilan Deivarajan , Xin Tong , Cook Samantha M. , Evans Darren M.
Published: November 2024

Insects play a vital role in ecosystem functioning, but in some parts of the world, their populations have declined significantly in recent decades due to environmental change, agricultural intensification and other anthropogenic drivers. Monitoring insect populations is crucial for understanding and mitigating biodiversity loss, especially in agro‐ecosystems where a focus on pests and beneficial insects is gaining momentum in the context of sustainable food systems.

Biomonitoring has long played an important role in providing early warnings of insect pests and their vectored pathogens and for assessing agro‐ecosystem management. However, identification of invertebrates by taxonomists is time‐consuming and fraught with numerous other challenges, particularly when it comes to real‐time monitoring.

Recent technological advances in both computational image recognition and molecular ecology have enhanced biomonitoring efficiency and accuracy, reducing labour efforts, but leading to unprecedented volumes of data generated.

This perspective article examines the significance and further potential of deep learning with image‐based recognition, aided by complementary technologies, in advancing entomological biomonitoring. Using entomological sticky traps as an example, we discuss each step of the workflow required to create ecological networks using image‐based recognition, multimodal data and deep learning, and we identify the challenges inherent to this method and other insect survey techniques.

In order to become mainstream for global biomonitoring, access to long‐term, standardised multimodal data is required for comprehending ecosystem dynamics, structure and function and for mitigating insect population declines.
Assessment of the Spatial Pattern of Small Termite Mounds and Trees in Altered Lands in Benin (West Africa)
Authors: Babatunde Babatokpè Calèb , Padonou Elie Antoine , Sinsin Franck , Azihou Akomian Fortuné , Akakpo Bokon Alexis , de Zoeten Tiago
Published: November 2024

Termite restore plant diversity and soil on altered lands in West Africa with particular abundance of small mound made by Trinervitermes trinervitus, Trinervitermes geminatus, Cubitermes spp. or Microcerotermes spp. The particular abundance of small mounds on altered lands suggests the existence of underlying abiotic and biotic factors. This study investigated the spatial patterns of termite mounds on the altered lands and its relationship with tree distribution in order to sustain the ecological restoration of the altered lands. Thus, unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) was used to collect images on three different altered land sites of 18 ha characterised with termite mounds. The images were ortho‐mosaicked with Pix4D Mapper software. Termite mounds and trees were digitalised on these images in ArcGIS software. The Ripley's pair correlation function using spatstat package was applied to assess the spatial pattern and association of mounds and trees. An aggregative pattern (g(r) > 1) was revealed in the spatial distribution of both termite mounds and trees across all sites. Furthermore, a positive clustered association between termite mounds and trees was noted at two study sites, likely due to the absence of human disturbance. Therefore, this interaction should be vital for assisted ecological restoration and can be factored into efforts to accelerate the restoration of soils and plants on degraded lands. The authors then recommend future research to explore the specific role this attractive relationship plays in ecosystem restoration.
Density and Ecological Distribution of Geckos in the Sahelian Metropolitan Area of Burkina Faso, West Africa
Authors: Dayama Wendata Francis , Kangoyé Napoko M. , Hema Emmanuel M.
Published: November 2024

Tropical dry areas are often characterised by a lack of reptile abundance data. For example, in Burkina Faso, the population and ecological distribution of the gecko are poorly understood. Contributing to fill this gap, this study assessed the diversity, density and ecological distribution of geckos in the metropolitan area of Ouagadougou. The study was conducted between 2020 and 2022 using the direct count of individuals in 72 quadrats (each 25 × 25 m2) evenly distributed throughout the entire study area, from a random start. Two distinct species, Hemidactylus angulatus and Ptyodactylus sp. have been encountered. H. angulatus density was estimated as 0.000352 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.000336) with a population estimate of 987,360 individuals (95% CI: ±942,480) in 2020; 0.000256 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.000432) with a population estimate of 718,080 individuals (95% CI: ±1,211,760) in 2021; and 0.000368 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.00048) with a population estimate of 1,032,240 individuals (95% CI: ±1,346,400) in 2022. Ptyodactylus sp. density was estimated as 0.010016 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.004608) with a population estimate of 28,094,880 individuals (95% CI: ±12,925,440) in 2020; 0.012352 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.005696) with a population estimate of 34,647,360 individuals (95% CI: ±15,977,280) in 2021; and 0.0144 individuals/m2 (95% CI: ±0.007136) with a population estimate of 40,392,000 individuals (95% CI: ±20,016,480) in 2022. The spatial distributions of both species were aggregative (dispersion index I = 3.81 for H. angulatus and I = 24.82 for Ptyodactylus sp.). Our study revealed that microhabitat is the resource axis typically partitioned by Ouagadougou geckos. The geckos of Ouagadougou follow the same pattern of available resource partitioning as African reptile communities.
Judicial Effectiveness and Cost of Debt: Evidence From A Quasi‐Natural Experiment in China*
Authors: Li Yue , Bai Min , Song Yiru
Published: November 2024

This paper utilizes the implementation of circuit courts in China to identify a causal relationship between judicial effectiveness and corporate debt financing costs. We provide firm‐level evidence demonstrating that enhanced judicial effectiveness leads to lower debt costs, with reduced credit discrimination and improved contract enforcement being key mechanisms. Further analyses reveal that the impact of judicial effectiveness on debt costs is more pronounced for firms that initially experienced higher levels of credit discrimination, and firms with lower credit quality, weaker collateral capacity, and higher reliance on bonds. We also find that improved judicial enforcement increases firms' total loans and credit loans, while reducing collateral loans. Additionally, firms reduce operating expenses to strengthen their financial condition and increase R&D investment after securing more debt at lower costs. This paper offers novel evidence highlighting the critical role of judicial reform in shaping the debt market.
Serum Ferritin Levels and Liver‐Related Events in Individuals With Steatotic Liver Disease: A Longitudinal Cohort Study
Authors: Song Byeong Geun , Goh Myung Ji , Kang Wonseok , Gwak Geum‐Youn , Paik Yong‐Han , Choi Moon Seok , Lee Joon Hyeok , Sinn Dong Hyun
Published: November 2024

Background

Serum ferritin has been suggested as a potential biomarker associated with disease progression in metabolic dysfunction–associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD).

Aims

We investigated the association between serum ferritin levels and liver‐related events (LREs) in individuals with steatotic liver disease (SLD).

Methods

This cohort study included 17,560 adults with SLD (MASLD [n = 15,744], MASLD with increased alcohol intake (MetALD) [n = 1103] and cryptogenic SLD [n = 713]) without LRE at baseline. A steatotic liver was diagnosed using ultrasound, and LRE was defined as the development of decompensation (ascites, variceal bleeding and hepatic encephalopathy) or hepatocellular carcinoma. Participants were categorised into high (≥ 300 μg/L for males, ≥ 200 μg/L for females) or normal to low (< 300 μg/L for males, < 200 μg/L for females) ferritin levels.

Results

During 211,425 person‐years of follow‐up (median: 12.3 years), 74 incident LRE cases were identified, with 63 cases in MASLD, 10 in MetALD and 1 in cryptogenic SLD. The multivariable‐adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) for LRE comparing individuals with high and normal‐to‐low ferritin level was 3.13 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.89–5.18). Increased risk of LRE in individuals with high serum ferritin level compared to those with normal to low serum ferritin level was consistent across SLD subtypes (aHR 2.69, 95% CI 1.55–4.67 for MASLD; aHR 5.73, 95% CI 1.31–25.0 for MetALD), and SLD severity assessed by Fibrosis‐4 (FIB‐4) index (aHR 2.38, 95% CI 1.34–4.21 for FIB‐4 ≥ 1.3; aHR 3.13, 95% CI 1.18–8.29 for FIB‐4 < 1.3).

Conclusions

Serum ferritin levels correlated with the risk of LRE in patients with SLD.
Acknowledgment of collective victimization: Findings from four contexts of historical victimization
Authors: Twali Michelle Sinayobye , Eldeeb Sherief Y. , Vollhardt Johanna Ray
Published: November 2024

Acknowledgment of collective victimization is often understood as a crucial precursor to promoting victimized groups’ well‐being and breaking the cycle of violence. Yet, research on acknowledgment has focused on a few forms of acknowledgment from the perpetrator group, thus limiting our understanding on what acknowledgment entails and who should engage in it. Furthermore, what is considered to be appropriate acknowledgment may be shaped by the historical and sociopolitical context. To address these issues, we conducted a qualitative online survey that explored how four historical victim groups (Armenian Americans, Black Americans, Jewish Americans, and the Palestinian diaspora, total N = 273) perceive how acknowledgment of their group's collective trauma should look like. Qualitative content analysis revealed four broad theoretical categories of what acknowledgment entails: symbolic gestures, knowledge and education, structural redress, and learning lessons and preventing violence. We also found four categories concerning who should acknowledge the ingroup's trauma: everyone, adversaries, the ingroup, and third parties. Responses varied across groups, suggesting the importance of the sociopolitical context in acknowledgment. The findings extend theoretical and empirical work on acknowledgment and have important program and policy implications.
Virtual exchange as a mode of internationalization at a distance: Experiences from Türkiye
Authors: Çalıkoğlu Alper , Bulut‐Sahin Betül , Aşık Asuman
Published: November 2024

This study examines virtual exchange (VE) as a mode of internationalization at a distance through the Turkish higher education context. Recognizing the constraints of geographical mobility, VE emerges as a viable alternative to enhance international and intercultural learning through technology. Employing a qualitative phenomenological design, we interviewed 22 participants, including students, faculty members and international office professionals from five Turkish universities. Our findings reveal diverse motivations, such as personal and academic development, and highlight professional and intercultural affordances. However, significant challenges persist, including technological limitations, time and communication obstacles and institutional support deficiencies. Our study indicates that VE projects provide valuable international experiences and intercultural awareness for students unable to participate in geographical mobility, yet they require careful consideration of technological tools and planning of activities in the ‘third space’ to overcome existing barriers and enhance student engagement. We recommend that scholars and institutional leaders give more consideration to VE from the viewpoint of internationalization at a distance for more inclusive and equitable internationalization practices in higher education driven by technological tools.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic?

Virtual exchange offers cost‐effective solutions for international and intercultural exchanges, especially for students with limited opportunities for geographical mobility.

What does this paper add?

Examines the virtual exchange from the viewpoint of Internationalization at a distance, using the Turkish case.

Uses the conceptual lens of space, place and time to understand virtual exchange and Internationalization at a distance and improve virtual exchange experiences in underprivileged contexts.

Implications for policy and practice

Instructors should foster a sense of community and belonging for virtual exchange participants and diversify technological tools and communication mechanisms.

Institutions should prioritize virtual exchange and technology integration in internationalization, provide adequate resources for students and faculty members and incentivize virtual exchange.
Uncharted Territory: Delving into Unexplored Knowledge to Curb Ableism in Academia
Authors: Schippers Alice , Koning Mark , Cardinaal Leo
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Language can reflect bias: an ‘intellectual’ disability means for many people that you cannot be an academic knowledge producer; a ‘learning’ disability means that your education will be hampered. Like language definitions, academic practices can reflect societal biases. The social (in)justice regarding knowledge and knowledge production is called epistemic injustice, and it has resulted in exclusion of nonconventional knowers, such as persons with intellectual or learning disabilities, from academia and higher education (other than as objects of research).

Methods

This paper will discuss academic practices through the lens of epistemic (in)justice and look at the potential of inclusive research and educational practices therein. We will briefly describe dominant ways of knowing (e.g., abstract, verbal), and counter these practices in exploring practical, tacit, embodied and affective ways of knowing.

Findings

For people with intellectual disabilities to be able to gain recognition as ‘real’ knowers within academia, we need to include diverse types of knowing and enable academic practices to be inclusive of people with intellectual disabilities. Inclusive practices can support a paradigm shift away from dominant ways of knowledge production in research and education, by centralising and correctly interpreting alternate knowledge. Experiences of scholars with intellectual disabilities appear to confirm the value of different ways of knowing.

Conclusions

Drawing from these experiences, we will discuss the importance of relational autonomy, collectively owned and adaptive knowledge, and the learning context.
EDITORIAL for BJP themed issue “noncoding RNA therapeutics”
Authors: Devaux Yvan , Zacchigna Serena , Schulz Rainer
Published: November 2024

LINKED ARTICLES

This article is part of a themed issue Non‐coding RNA Therapeutics. To view the other articles in this section visit http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/bph.v182.2/issuetoc
Plasma miR‐1‐3p levels predict severity in hospitalized COVID‐19 patients
Authors: Di Pietro Paola , Abate Angela Carmelita , Izzo Carmine , Toni Anna Laura , Rusciano Maria Rosaria , Folliero Veronica , Dell'Annunziata Federica , Granata Giovanni , Visco Valeria , Motta Benedetta Maria , Campanile Alfonso , Vitale Carolina , Prete Valeria , Gatto Cristina , Scarpati Giuliana , Poggio Paolo , Galasso Gennaro , Pagliano Pasquale , Piazza Ornella , Santulli Gaetano , Franci Gianluigi , Carrizzo Albino , Vecchione Carmine , Ciccarelli Michele
Published: November 2024

Background and Purpose

Accumulating evidence suggests circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of biological processes involved in COVID‐19 complications. We sought to assess whether circulating miRNAs are associated with COVID‐19 clinical phenotype and outcome.

Experimental Approach

To discover signatures of circulating miRNAs associated with COVID‐19 disease severity and mortality, miRNA quantification was performed on plasma samples collected at hospital admission from a cohort of 106 patients with mild or severe COVID‐19. Variable importance projection scoring with partial least squared discriminant analysis and Random Forest Classifier were employed to identify key miRNAs associated with COVID‐19 severity. ROC analysis was performed to detect promising miRNA able to discriminate between mild and severe COVID status.

Key Results

Hsa‐miR‐1‐3p was the most promising miRNA in differentiating COVID‐19 patients who developed severe, rather than mild, disease. Hsa‐miR‐1‐3p levels rose with increasing disease severity, and the highest levels were associated with prolonged hospital length of stay and worse survival. Longitudinal miRNA profiling demonstrated that plasma hsa‐miR‐1‐3p expression levels were significantly increased in patients during acute infection compared with those observed 6 months after the disease onset. Specific blockade of miR‐1‐3p in SARS‐CoV‐2–infected endothelial cells decreased up‐regulation of genes involved in endothelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition, inflammation and thrombosis. Furthermore, miR‐1‐3p inhibition reversed the impaired angiogenic capacity induced by plasma from patients with severe COVID‐19.

Conclusion and Implications

Our data establish a novel role for miR‐1‐3p in the pathogenesis of COVID‐19 infection and provide a strong rationale for its usefulness as early prognostic biomarkers of severity status and survival.
LINC02154 promotes cell cycle and mitochondrial function in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Niinuma Takeshi , Kitajima Hiroshi , Sato Tatsuya , Ogawa Toshifumi , Ishiguro Kazuya , Kai Masahiro , Yamamoto Eiichiro , Hatanaka Yui , Nojima Iyori , Toyota Mutsumi , Yorozu Akira , Sekiguchi Shohei , Tohse Noritsugu , Furuhashi Masato , Ohguro Hiroshi , Miyazaki Akihiro , Suzuki Hiromu
Published: November 2024

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) play pivotal roles in the development of human malignancies, though their involvement in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) remains incompletely understood. Using The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) dataset, we analyzed expression of 7840 lncRNAs in primary head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and found that upregulation of LINC02154 is associated with a poorer prognosis. LINC02154 knockdown in OSCC cell lines induced cell cycle arrest and apoptosis, and significantly attenuated tumor growth in vitro and in vivo. Notably, depletion of LINC02154 downregulated FOXM1, a master regulator of cell cycle‐related genes. RNA pulldown and mass spectrometry analyses identified a series of proteins that could potentially interact with LINC02154, including HNRNPK and LRPPRC. HNRNPK stabilizes FOXM1 expression by interacting with the 3′‐UTR of FOXM1 mRNA, which suggests LINC02154 and HNRNPK promote cell cycling by regulating FOXM1 expression. Additionally, LINC02154 positively regulates HNRNPK expression by inhibiting microRNAs targeting HNRPNK. Moreover, LINC02154 affects mitochondrial function by interacting with LRPPRC. Depletion of LINC02154 suppressed expression of mitochondrial genes, including MTCO1 and MTCO2, and inhibited mitochondrial respiratory function in OSCC cells. These results suggest that LINC02154 exerts its oncogenic effects by modulating the cell cycle and oxidative phosphorylation in OSCC, highlighting LINC02154 as a potential therapeutic target.
Fixed Full‐Arch Maxillary Prostheses Supported by Four Versus Six Implants: 5‐Year Results of a Multicenter Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Toia Marco , Moreira Cristiano S. , Dias Debora R. , Corrà Enrico , Ravidà Andrea , Cecchinato Denis
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This 5‐year multicenter randomized clinical trial assessed the non‐inferiority of maxillary implant‐supported fixed complete dentures (FCDs) with four (4‐I) compared to six implants (6‐I) in terms of radiographic marginal bone level (MBL) changes after 5 years in function.

Materials and Methods

Individuals were randomly assigned to the 4‐I or 6‐I groups. Follow‐ups occurred at 1, 3, and 5 years. At each visit, FCDs were unscrewed, clinical parameters (plaque index, bleeding on probing, pocket depth, and keratinized mucosa width) were recorded using a periodontal probe, periapical radiographs were obtained, and maintenance care was performed. MBL changes, incidence of techincal, prosthetic, and biological complications, treatments costs, and satisfaction were evaluated.

Results

Of 47 patients rehabiliated with 233 implants, survival rates were 99.3% for 6‐I and 100% for 4‐I (one early failure; 6‐I group). No significant MBL differences were observed at 5 years between and within the groups. Both groups showed a decrease in keratinized mucosa width and experienced prosthetic and biological complications, but no peri‐implantitis. The 4‐I exhibited a significantly higher incidence of technical complications (16.6% vs. 0%) Cost analysis favored 4‐I for initial and total costs. Clinician and patient satisfaction varied, with 4‐I preferred aesthetically and 6‐I functionally, particularly in speaking ability at earlier follow‐ups.

Conclusion

The use of FCDs supported by four implants is non‐inferior to six implants in terms of radiographic MBL changes after 5 years in function. Both groups demonstrated comparable survival rates and incidence of biological and prosthetic complications. The 4‐I was associated with higher technical complications and reduced overall treatment cost.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02405169
The early diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease: Blood‐based panel biomarker discovery by proteomics and metabolomics
Authors: Dong Yun , Song Xun , Wang Xiao , Wang Shaoxiang , He Zhendan
Published: November 2024

Diagnosis and prediction of Alzheimer's disease (AD) are increasingly pressing in the early stage of the disease because the biomarker‐targeted therapies may be most effective. Diagnosis of AD largely depends on the clinical symptoms of AD. Currently, cerebrospinal fluid biomarkers and neuroimaging techniques are considered for clinical detection and diagnosis. However, these clinical diagnosis results could provide indications of the middle and/or late stages of AD rather than the early stage, and another limitation is the complexity attached to limited access, cost, and perceived invasiveness. Therefore, the prediction of AD still poses immense challenges, and the development of novel biomarkers is needed for early diagnosis and urgent intervention before the onset of obvious phenotypes of AD. Blood‐based biomarkers may enable earlier diagnose and aid detection and prognosis for AD because various substances in the blood are vulnerable to AD pathophysiology. The application of a systematic biological paradigm based on high‐throughput techniques has demonstrated accurate alterations of molecular levels during AD onset processes, such as protein levels and metabolite levels, which may facilitate the identification of AD at an early stage. Notably, proteomics and metabolomics have been used to identify candidate biomarkers in blood for AD diagnosis. This review summarizes data on potential blood‐based biomarkers identified by proteomics and metabolomics that are closest to clinical implementation and discusses the current challenges and the future work of blood‐based candidates to achieve the aim of early screening for AD. We also provide an overview of early diagnosis, drug target discovery and even promising therapeutic approaches for AD.
High Fish Biomass and Low Nutrient Enrichment Synergistically Enhance Stability in a Seagrass Meta‐Ecosystem
Authors: Hesselbarth Maximilian H. K. , Allgeier Jacob E.
Published: November 2024

Tropical seagrass ecosystems are globally imperiled due to overfishing and anthropogenic disturbances. Sustaining the services they provide will require managing resilience, particularly with increased volatility from climate change. Portfolio theory is touted as a mechanism to increase resilience in ecosystems because it takes advantage of temporal volatility in local production dynamics to increase stability at larger spatial scales. Using an individual‐based model of a network of artificial reefs across multiple seagrass ecosystems that is parameterized with 15 years of field data, we demonstrate that (1) the large fish populations and the low enrichment synergistically increase portfolio effects; (2) the mechanism was via reduced local and increased meta‐ecosystem stability in primary production; and (3) stability was greatest under intermediate production because nutrient enrichment reduces and fish, which have less influence on the amount of production, promote stability. Integrating common‐sense management with portfolio theory can stabilize the services provided by seagrass ecosystems.
Explanation seeking and anomalous recommendation adherence in human‐to‐human versus human‐to‐artificial intelligence interactions
Authors: Jenkin Tracy , Kelley Stephanie , Ovchinnikov Anton , Ying Cecilia
Published: November 2024

The use of artificial intelligence (AI) in operational decision‐making is growing, but individuals can display algorithm aversion, preventing adherence to AI system recommendations—even when the system outperforms human decision‐makers. Understanding why such algorithm aversion occurs and how to reduce it is important to ensure AI is fully leveraged. While the ability to seek an explanation from an AI may be a promising approach to mitigate this aversion, there is conflicting evidence on their benefits. Based on several behavioral theories, including Bayesian choice, loss aversion, and sunk cost avoidance, we hypothesize that if a recommendation is perceived as an anomalous loss, it will decrease recommendation adherence; however, the effect will be mediated by explanations and differ depending on whether the advisor providing the recommendation and explanation is a human or an AI. We conducted a survey‐based lab experiment set in the online rental market space and found that presenting a recommendation as a loss anomaly significantly reduces adherence compared to presenting it as a gain, however, this negative effect can be dampened if the advisor is an AI. We find explanation‐seeking has a limited impact on adherence, even after considering the influence of the advisor; we discuss the managerial and theoretical implications of these findings.
Exploring Queer Colombian Preservice English Language Teachers' Perceptions Towards Queering English Language Teaching
Authors: Tarrayo Veronico N. , Vásquez‐Guarnizo Jhonatan , Tobar‐Gómez Mairon Felipe
Published: November 2024

Recent initiatives have highlighted the need for integrating a gender perspective into English Language teaching (ELT), particularly in Colombia where gender diversity in education lacks significant sociocultural advancement. This study investigates the perceptions of 11 queer preservice English‐language teachers (PSELTs) from a Colombian public university, using semistructured interviews to explore their views on queering ELT and their future roles as educators. The findings emphasise the importance and challenges of adopting a queer perspective in ELT, essential for creating inclusive environments that respect (queer) students' identities. Moreover, the experiences of these PSELTs during their training have empowered and motivated them as future educators to advocate for societal transformation by promoting awareness of gender diversity in Colombian EFL classrooms. This study supports critical educational reforms that recognise and integrate diverse identities, enriching teaching practices and fostering inclusive learning environments.
Outcomes of cerebrovascular disease in muscular dystrophies: A propensity‐matched nationwide analysis
Authors: Al‐Salahat Ali , Dilsaver Danielle B. , Bawaneh Saif , Chen Yu‐Ting
Published: November 2024

Background and purpose

The literature lacks large studies on outcomes of cerebrovascular disease (CVD) in patients with muscular dystrophies (MDs). Previous studies primarily focused on ischemic stroke. CVD can add considerable morbidity in patients with MD. We aimed to study the outcomes of CVD in patients with MDs using a national database.

Methods

Data were abstracted from the 2010–2021 Nationwide Readmission Database. We identified hospitalizations for CVDs including ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and other unspecified CVDs. We used propensity‐score matching to account for selection bias and baseline differences between MD and non‐MD patients in type of CVD, age, biological sex, time of discharge, and comorbidity burden. Outcomes were inpatient mortality, 30‐day and 90‐day readmissions, length of stay, costs and discharge disposition.

Results

There were an estimated 6,129,132 CVD hospitalizations, of which 0.03% (weighted N = 2098) were for patients with MD. Ischemic stroke was the most common type, followed by intracerebral hemorrhage. MD was associated with 41% lower odds of a routine discharge, 9% greater costs, and 30% lower odds of 90‐day all‐cause readmissions. Inpatient mortality was higher in the MD cohort, but the difference was not statistically significant. There were no significant differences in other outcomes.

Conclusion

The findings of this study provide new insights into the outcomes of CVD in MD patients, highlighting the need for enhanced access to post‐discharge care in such patients. Improved post‐discharge care may help reduce readmissions and avoid longer hospital stays. This study could be valuable for neurologists, rehabilitation physicians, healthcare administrators and economists.
Efficacy and safety of perampanel in patients with seizures associated with Lennox–Gastaut syndrome: A randomized trial
Authors: Vossler David G. , Porter Brenda E. , Kira Ryutaro , Lee Jeehun , Aeby Alec , Patten Anna , Cheng Jocelyn Y. , Ngo Leock Y. ,   the 338 Study Investigators
Published: November 2024

Objectives

The Phase 3 Study 338 (NCT02834793) assessed long‐term clinical outcomes of adjunctive perampanel in patients ≥2 years of age with uncontrolled seizures associated with Lennox–Gastaut syndrome (LGS).

Methods

Eligible patients were diagnosed with LGS and receiving one to four concomitant antiseizure medications with an average of two or more drop seizures/week during baseline. The study comprised an 18‐week double‐blind, randomized, placebo‐controlled Core Study and ≥52‐week open‐label Extension. The primary endpoint was median percent change in drop seizure frequency per 28 days during the Core Study. Key secondary endpoints included responder rates, seizure‐freedom rates, and safety outcomes. Post hoc analyses were performed encompassing a broader range of drop seizures or all countable motor seizures.

Results

Seventy patients were randomized into the Core Study (perampanel, n = 34; placebo, n = 36), and 58 entered the Extension. In the Core Study, numerically greater median percent reductions in drop seizure frequency were observed with perampanel (23.1%) vs placebo (4.5%) using prespecified assessments (p = .107), whereas significantly greater reductions were detected using the broader definition (48.6% vs −.7%, respectively, p = .001) or all countable motor seizures (44.0% vs −.6%, respectively, p = .017). The 50% responder rate for drop seizures was higher with perampanel vs placebo using modern definitions. Reductions in seizure frequency with perampanel were maintained over 52 weeks. Treatment‐emergent adverse events occurred in 85.3% of perampanel‐treated patients (somnolence [23.5%] was the most frequent) and 72.2% of placebo‐treated patients.

Significance

This study had a reduced sample size and was underpowered. Although the difference in reductions in drop seizure frequency between treatments was not statistically significant by prespecified assessments, adjunctive perampanel demonstrated sustained efficacy in reducing drop seizures associated with LGS for ≤71 weeks using modern definitions. No new safety signals emerged. These observations suggest the long‐term efficacy and safety of perampanel in the LGS population.
Imaging and histopathological findings of a third metacarpal aneurysmal bone cyst and pathological proximal suspensory ligament avulsion fracture
Authors: Fletcher O. , Mackinder J. , Agass R. , Bianco C. , Ortiz A. , Dixon J.
Published: November 2024

A 10‐year‐old Quarter Horse mare presented with acute and severe lameness, persisting despite initial farriery intervention. Upon physical examination, palpation of the proximal thirds of the third and fourth metacarpal bones elicited marked pain. Radiographic evaluation revealed a well‐defined radiolucency within the proximal third of the left third metacarpal bone, localised to the enthesis of the proximal suspensory ligament. Ultrasonographic findings demonstrated moderate thickening and increased vascularity of the suspensory ligament at this level. Surgical intervention was considered; however, its feasibility was constrained by the atypical nature and location of the lesion. Subsequent magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provided a detailed characterisation of the lesion, confirming its expansile nature and the suspected associated avulsion fracture presence. Histopathological examination corroborated the diagnosis of an aneurysmal bone cyst (ABC) with an accompanying bone fracture and bone remodelling. Cases like the one described here define the importance of utilising advanced imaging techniques in combination with conventional modalities, especially when diagnosing and assessing the extent of unusual or complex lesions, to inform prognosis and guide treatment decisions. Due to the lesion's intramedullary location, expansile nature and involvement of critical anatomical structures, surgical interventions were limited which led to a recommendation for humane euthanasia.
Facebook and Consumer Research: A Review, AI‐Driven Thematic Visualisation, and Research Agenda
Authors: Zaveri Moulik , Wilk Violetta
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the evolution of academic consumer research on Facebook by consolidating the existing body of literature. The study consists of 336 papers on the topic of Facebook and consumers, published in top journals between 2008 and 2023, sourced via Scopus. The data collection followed the PRISMA framework, and bibliometric analysis was conducted using descriptive and performance analyses with the aid of data tabulation software. Additionally, natural language processing (NLP) and thematic analysis of the data were conducted via text mining, topic modelling and data visualisation with Leximancer—an artificial intelligence (AI)‐based programme. The results revealed that, over the 15‐year time period, and most prominently in the last 5 years, there has been a noticeable shift in consumer research on Facebook in line with the evolution of the social media platform itself. The paper identifies evident gaps in the literature via thematic analysis of future research suggestions and managerial implications emergent from the data. It proposes specific future research directions for academic researchers to explore. Practitioners are provided insights corresponding to consumer‐centric and effective social media marketing strategies.