bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meta‐analysis of in vitro methods on tracheal decellularization
Authors: Jiwangga Dhihintia , Mahyudin Ferdiansyah , Mastutik Gondo , Lazuwardi Rasya Azka
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Tracheal decellularization is one of the main processes to provide tracheal substitutes for tracheal replacement. Recently, studies have been held for agents and combinations of processes for tracheal decellularization with different outcomes. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy of tracheal decellularization by the immunogenic cellular elements using residual deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) contents (ng/mg) and the preservation of biomechanical integrity by glycosaminoglycan (GAG) content (μg/mg), modulus tensile strength (MPa), ultimate tensile strength (MPa), and stress loading of 50% deformation (N).

Methods

We conducted a meta‐analysis based on PRISMA criteria. Data from experimental studies in MEDLINE, Scopus, and ScienceDirect from inception to August 21, 2023, were sought and computed using RevMan 5.4. The outcomes of tracheal decellularization were evaluated through effect size estimates based on pooled Standardized Mean Difference (SMD) with 95% CI.

Results

Tracheal decellularization has significantly reduced the DNA and GAG content after the process (SMD: −11.77, 95% CI [−13.92, −8.62], p < 0.00001; SMD: −6.70, 95% CI [−9.55, −3.85], p < 0.00001). No significant outcomes were observed in modulus and ultimate tensile strength result (SMD: −0.14, 95% CI [−0.64, 0.36], p = 0.58; SMD: 0.11, 95% CI [−0.57, 0.80], p = 0.75). The stress loading of 50% deformation was observed to significantly lower (SMD: −1.61, 95% CI [−2.49, −0.72], p = 0.0004).

Conclusion

Tracheal decellularization has been proven to effectively remove immunogenic cells. However, extracellular matrix integrity and biomechanical properties vary among different decellularization techniques, indicating a need for further refinement to achieve better preservation.
Hopeful progress in artificial vision
Authors: Shah Aakash M.
Published: November 2024

Visual impairment has been augmented by glasses for centuries. With the advent of newer technologies, correction of more severe visual impairment may be possible with brain–computer interface and eye implants.
Charting the history of premature birth in France from the 17th century to modern state‐of‐the art care
Authors: Houzé de l'Aulnoit Agathe , Charkaluk Marie‐Laure , Drouin Emmanuel
Published: November 2024

Aim

To describe the concept of preterm birth in the history of medicine in France, from the 17th century up until the end of the 20th century, on the basis of old medical textbooks.

Methods

Historical manuscripts and books held in medical libraries and from our personal collection were examined. Digital copies of medical textbooks online were also studied.

Results

Premature deliveries were often referred to as spontaneous abortions or miscarriages, irrespective of the infant's condition at birth. The difference between growth restriction and prematurity was not known. At the end of the 18th century, care for newborn infants entered the age of modern medicine, with observations of the newborn infant and its illnesses and experiments concerning nutrition and thermoregulation treatments. The responsibility for newborn infants, long allocated to midwives and obstetricians, was passed to neonatologists and paediatricians in the 1960s, thanks to developments in our knowledge of neonatal physiology in general and respiration, nutrition and thermoregulation in particular.

Conclusion

This article delays the history of medicine concerned the care of preterm infants by obstetricians and then neonatologists, from the 17th century to modern period.
Competitiveness in the Catalan agri‐food cooperatives: Internationalization–certification relationship
Authors: Cos Pilar , Moltó Margarita , Escardíbul Blanca , Millán José S. , Aldaz Natalia
Published: November 2024

The competitiveness of Catalan agri‐food cooperatives is studied from a new point of view, their internationalization and specifically the effects on internationalization due to the adoption of quality certifications. Most of the previous research focuses on organizational, economic and commercial aspects, and there are few works linking both fields. Therefore, the purpose of this research is to analyse the behaviour of the relationship between internationalization and certification. For this purpose, the non‐parametric Mann–Whitney U test for two independent samples and boxplot analysis were used. The results of this research show a positive relationship between different certification systems and internationalization. Empirical evidence was found: Exporting cooperatives that adopt ISO 9001 or a production system certification have a higher export intensity and geographical diversification than those that do not adopt it.
The effect of positive mental imagery versus positive verbal thoughts on anhedonia
Authors: Blackwell Simon E. , Rölver Angela , Margraf Jürgen , Woud Marcella L.
Published: November 2024

Anhedonia, the loss of interest in and pleasure from previously enjoyable activities is a core symptom of depression and presents a major challenge to treatments. Interventions involving positive mental imagery generation have been suggested to reduce anhedonia. However, it is not clear whether the imagery component of such interventions is crucial for these effects. The current study aimed to test this by contrasting repeated generation of positive mental imagery versus positive verbal thoughts. Over a one‐week period, 53 mildly anhedonic adults completed five sessions of a computerized training program involving the generation of either positive images or positive sentences. Compared to participants who generated sentences, participants who generated imagery showed greater improvements from pre‐ to post‐training on an individualized multi‐facetted measure of anhedonia (the Dimensional Anhedonia Rating Scale), but not on standardized measures of anticipated pleasure (the Snaith‐Hamilton Pleasure Scale), depression symptoms, or positive affect. The present study supports the proposal that positive imagery could provide a route to improve anhedonia, with generation of imagery in particular (as opposed to positive thoughts in general) as an important driving mechanism for these effects. This has theoretical and clinical implications for understanding the role of imagery in anhedonia and its treatment.
Exploring and comparing teachers' X/Twitter use in three countries: Purposes, benefits, challenges and changes
Authors: Carpenter Jeffrey P. , Rimmereide Hege Emma , Turvey Keith
Published: November 2024

In recent years, social media platforms have become key elements in many teachers' professional lives. In particular, teacher professional activities on X (formerly Twitter) have received attention from scholars. However, research has rarely explored X/Twitter use with attention to the diverse national contexts in which teachers work. To address this literature gap, this qualitative study collected data via individual and focus group interviews with teachers (N = 29) in three countries: England, Norway and the United States of America. Inductive analysis yielded findings related to purposes for, changes in and benefits and challenges of K‐12 teachers' X/Twitter use. Participants from all three contexts described professional learning activities that included sharing and/or acquiring knowledge and resources, and building professional networks and/or communities via X/Twitter. Multiple participants across contexts also referred to similar challenges such as avoiding negativity from other users. However, differences in X/Twitter use were also noted across teachers from the three national settings, such as only Norwegian participants speaking about using X/Twitter to find collaboration partners for teaching and learning projects. We discuss our findings in relation to literature, theory and practice around teacher professional learning in an era of widespread social media.

Practitioner notes

What is already known about this topic

Many K‐12 teachers use X/Twitter and other social media platforms for professional learning purposes.

Teachers can use X/Twitter for various purposes and in multiple ways.

Contextual factors influence teachers' use of X/Twitter.

Social media platform use varies to some extent across cultures and nations.

What this paper adds

Identification of similarities and differences in X/Twitter use among teachers.

International comparative analysis based on individual and focus group interviews of participants from England, Norway and the United States of America.

Evidence related to the evolving and dynamic nature of teachers' use of X/Twitter.

Implications for practice and/or policy

Teachers who use social media may benefit from understanding diverse potential uses of platforms.

Policies and guidance regarding K‐12 teacher social media use should accommodate various contextual factors, including national context.

Diversity and changes in teacher professional social media use warrant more international comparative research in relation to wider policy contexts in education.
Risk of bleeding after retrograde intrarenal surgery vs miniaturised percutaneous nephrolithotomy for 10–20 mm renal stones: a not so different safety profile
Authors: Perri Davide , Besana Umberto , Maltagliati Matteo , Pacchetti Andrea , Calcagnile Tommaso , Pastore Antonio Luigi , Romero‐Otero Javier , Micali Salvatore , Govorov Alexander , Somani Bhaskar , Liatsikos Evangelos , Knoll Thomas , Rocco Bernardo , Bozzini Giorgio
Published: November 2024

Objective

To assess differences in bleeding risk between retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS) and minimally invasive miniaturised percutaneous nephrolithotomy (mini‐PCNL) for 10–20 mm renal stones.

Patients and methods

A total of 176 patients with a renal stone between 10 and 20 mm were treated. For all patients the Stone Management According to Size‐Hardness (SMASH) score was calculated: Hounsfield units × stone maximum size (cm)/100. Patients with score of <15 underwent RIRS (90 patients, Group A), whereas patients with score ≥15 underwent mini‐PCNL (86 patients, Group B). In both groups the Cyber Ho laser was used. A statistical analysis was carried out to assess differences in the risk of bleeding.

Results

Preoperative features were comparable. The mean maximum stone diameter was 17.1 and 16.8 mm in Groups A and B, respectively (P = 0.13). The stone‐free rate was comparable (87.8% vs 95.3%, P = 0.07). The overall complication rate was 14.4% and 18.6% in Groups A and B, respectively (P = 0.09). Gross haematuria was observed in five cases (5.5%) after RIRS and seven (8.1%) after mini‐PCNL (P = 0.07). The mean haemoglobin drop was 12 and 2 g/L at the first and third postoperative day after RIRS vs 17 and 3 g/L after mini‐PCNL (P = 0.06 and P = 0.21, respectively). Blood transfusions and renal embolisation were never necessary.

Conclusion

When managing renal stones between 10 and 20 mm taking into account both size and hardness with the application of the SMASH score, RIRS and mini‐PCNL show comparable efficacy. A higher bleeding risk has been expected with percutaneous approaches; however, in our cohort the incidence of clinically significant bleeding was low and comparable between the two groups when adopting mini‐PCNL.
Advancing at‐risk species recovery planning in an era of rapid ecological change with a transparent, flexible, and expert‐engaged approach
Authors: Berio Fortini Lucas , Leopold Christina R. , Amidon Fred , Leopold Devin R. , Fretz J. Scott , Jacobi James D. , Mehrhoff Loyal , Price Jonathan P. , Duvall Fern , Keir Matthew , Oppenheimer Hank , Weisenberger Lauren , Sutter Robert
Published: November 2024

In the face of unprecedented ecological changes, the conservation community needs strategies to recover species at risk of extinction. On the Island of Maui, we collaborated with species experts and managers to assist with climate‐resilient recovery planning for 36 at‐risk native plant species by identifying priority areas for the management of recovery populations. To do this, we developed a tailored spatial conservation prioritization (SCP) approach distinguished by its emphasis on transparency, flexibility, and expert (TFE) engagement. Our TFE SCP approach consisted of 2 iterative steps: first, the generation of multiple candidate conservation footprints (i.e., prioritization solutions) with a flexible greedy algorithm that reflects conservation practitioners’ priorities and, second, the selection of an optimal conservation footprint based on the consideration of trade‐offs in expert‐agreed criteria among footprints. This process maximized buy‐in by involving conservation practitioners and experts throughout, from setting goals to reviewing optimization data, defining optimization rules, and designating planning units meaningful to practitioners. We minimized the conservation footprint area necessary to meet recovery goals while incorporating species‐specific measures of habitat suitability and climate resilience and retaining species‐specific information for guiding recovery efforts. Our approach reduced the overall necessary conservation area by 36%, compared with selecting optimal recovery habitats for each species separately, and still identified high‐quality habitat for individual species. Compared with prioritizr (an existing SCP tool), our approach identified a conservation area of equal size but with higher quality habitat. By integrating the strengths of existing techniques in a flexible and transparent design, our approach can address natural resource management constraints and provide outputs suitable for local recovery planning, consequently enhancing engagement and buy‐in from conservation practitioners and experts. It demonstrates a step forward in making conservation planning more responsive to real‐world complexities and helps reduce barriers to implementation for local conservation practitioners.
Veno‐Venous Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation Support for Severe Primary Graft Dysfunction Is Associated With Reduced Airway Complications After Lung Transplantation
Authors: Noda Kentaro , Jawad‐Makki Mohamed‐Ali H. , Chan Ernest G. , Ryan John , Furukawa Masashi , Hage Chadi A. , Sanchez Pablo G.
Published: November 2024

Background

Early utilization of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) improves the clinical outcomes of patients with severe primary graft dysfunction (PGD3) after lung transplantation. Although there is a survival benefit, the impact of ECMO on airway complications has not been investigated. This study aims to describe the clinical association between posttransplant methods of support and the severity of acute airway anastomosis complications in patients with PGD3 following bilateral lung transplantation.

Methods

Data from adult bilateral lung transplant patients diagnosed with PGD3 at our institution were retrospectively reviewed. Bronchial anastomosis necrosis (ischemia reperfusion injury [IRI]) that developed within a month after transplantation was graded. The data were compared among the groups of veno‐venous ECMO (VV‐ECMO) (n = 77), veno‐arterial ECMO (VA‐ECMO) (n = 14), and mechanical ventilation (MV, n = 33).

Results

Higher levels of support (VV/VA‐ECMO) were associated with a lower incidence of PGD3, which was highest in recipients on MV only (M2 = 19.54, r = −0.41, p < 0.001). In a multivariable competing risk analysis, VV‐ECMO was protective against chronic allograft dysfunction (CLAD) relative to the MV group (HR: 0.36 [0.13–0.96], p = 0.042). There was no relationship between posttransplant support and survival.

Conclusion

This study suggests posttransplant VV‐ECMO support in patients who develop PGD3 may confer a protective advantage over MV alone in the prevention of ischemic reperfusion injury. VV‐ECMO was associated with lower IRI grades and lower rates of BOS after transplantation. Future studies investigating the causal mechanisms are warranted.
Regulator of G protein signalling 14 (RGS14) protein expression profile in the adult mouse brain
Authors: Bramlett Sara N. , Fitzmaurice Shana M. , Harbin Nicholas H. , Yan Wuji , Bandlamudi Charan , Van Doorn G. Emme , Smith Yoland , Hepler John R.
Published: November 2024

Regulator of G protein signalling 14 (RGS14) is a multifunctional signalling protein that serves as a natural suppressor of synaptic plasticity in the mouse brain. Our previous studies showed that RGS14 is highly expressed in postsynaptic dendrites and spines of pyramidal neurons in hippocampal area CA2 of the developing mouse brain. However, our more recent work with monkey brain shows that RGS14 is found in multiple neuron populations throughout hippocampal area CA1 and CA2, caudate nucleus, putamen, globus pallidus, substantia nigra and amygdala. In the mouse brain, we also have observed RGS14 protein in discrete limbic regions linked to reward behaviour and addiction, including the central amygdala and the nucleus accumbens, but a comprehensive mapping of RGS14 protein expression in the adult mouse brain is lacking. Here, we report that RGS14 is more broadly expressed in mouse brain than previously known. Intense RGS14 staining is observed in specific neuron populations of the hippocampal formation, amygdala, septum, bed nucleus of stria terminalis and ventral striatum/nucleus accumbens. RGS14 is also observed in axon fibre tracts including the dorsal fornix, fimbria, stria terminalis and the ventrohippocampal commissure. Moderate RGS14 staining is observed in various other adjacent regions not previously reported. These findings show that RGS14 is expressed in brain regions that govern aspects of core cognitive functions such as sensory perception, emotion, memory, motivation and execution of actions and suggest that RGS14 may serve to suppress plasticity and filter inputs in these brain regions to set the overall tone on experience‐to‐action processes.
The resonance of seen things: Seeing the Virgin Mary in the concrete
Authors: Thompson Gregory A. , Chase Zachary J.
Published: November 2024

What follows is an exploration of an experience of seeing. The experience of interest here is the seeing of Our Lady of the Underpass, a Marian apparition that was seen in an underpass in Chicago in early 2005. Taking the images and objects brought to the make‐shift shrine as clues, we explore the constitutive poetic resonances ingredient to this seeing. We point to how these constitutive poetic resonances function both as an explanation of and as instructions for the seeing of the Virgin Mary in the underpass. We then consider how the semiotic multimodality of these poetic resonances made this seeing so robust, paying particular attention to the historical dimension of seeing. The resulting analysis offers the outlines of a cultural historical onto‐poetic approach that builds and expands upon existing physiological approaches to seeing by highlighting the essential role of social, cultural, and historical contexts for seeing.
Fatigue Life Prediction of LF6 Aluminum Alloy Laser‐Arc Hybrid Welded Joints Based on Energy Dissipation Method
Authors: Mi Chengji , Xiao Yingang , Deng Yingjian , Li Yongqiang
Published: November 2024

To accurately characterize the heat dissipation behavior of LF6 aluminum alloy laser arc composite welded joint under low cycle fatigue, two fatigue life prediction methods based on dissipated energy were proposed. The experimental investigation has revealed four stages in the evolution of surface temperature increment, including initial temperature increase, subsequent decline, attainment of thermal equilibrium, and sudden temperature escalation leading to failure. Based on the energy dissipation method, two models predicting lifespan of welded joints have been formulated. Model I incorporates the effects of stress amplitude and mean stress, on lifetime demonstrating a strong linear correlation particularly under high‐stress level according to experimental comparisons. Model II introduces a relationship between plastic strain amplitude and inherent dissipated energy to assess fatigue life of welded joints. Digital imaging correction technique has been utilized to quantify plastic strain amplitude. The predicted results from Model II agree well with experimental data.
Diagnostic accuracy analysis of SARC‐F, its modified versions and the Quality of Life in Sarcopenia questionnaire in screening for sarcopenia in nursing home residents
Authors: ŞİMŞEK Hilal , UÇAR Aslı
Published: November 2024

Aim

Sarcopenia, which is among the most important geriatric syndromes, is also a public health challenge. This study evaluated the performance of the SARC‐F, its modified versions and the Quality of Life in Sarcopenia (SarQoL) in screening for sarcopenia.

Methods

In the diagnostic accuracy study carried out with a total of 195 nursing home residents, sarcopenia was evaluated according to the European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older Persons 2 algorithm. For SARC‐CalFs, the calf circumference standard and its population‐specific reference (31 cm, 32/33 cm, respectively) were used, whereas for SARC + elderly and body mass index information, age (>75 years) and body mass index (<21 kg/m2) were used. Screening test performance was evaluated with receiver operating characteristic analysis, and the optimal cut‐off points were determined according to the Youden index.

Results

The prevalence of sarcopenia was 33.8%. Although SarQoL and SARC‐CalF scores were lower in individuals with sarcopenia, standard SARC‐F and SARC‐F + elderly and body mass index information scores were not different. SARC‐F had the poorest screening performance, whereas the SarQoL scale had the best screening performance (area under the curve 0.502 vs 0.787). SARC‐CalF (32/33 cm) had the best performance among the modified versions of SARC‐F. The optimal cut‐off point for SarQoL was <64.56, and its sensitivity in sarcopenia screening was 74.24% (95% CI 62.0–84.2) and its specificity was 79.07% (95% CI 71.0–85.7). All the modified versions of SARC‐CalF had higher sensitivity and area under the curve compared with SARC‐F.

Conclusions

SarQoL screening performance might be conducive to providing clinical discrimination in a nursing home sample. Further research is needed for the use of SarQoL as a potential sarcopenia screening strategy. Additionally, SARC‐CalFs, especially the population‐specific SARC‐CalF (32/33 cm), might improve screening performance compared with standard SARC‐F. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 1335–1342.
Exploring Barriers and Facilitators to Patients and Members of the Public Contributing to Rapid Health Technology Assessments for NICE: A Qualitative Study
Authors: Johnson Eugenie Evelynne , Smith Debbie , Harmston Becky , Hunter Emily , Belilios Emma , Pearson Fiona
Published: November 2024

Background

Evidence and External Assessment Groups (EAGs) assist in the National Institute of Health and Care Excellence's Technology Appraisal programme by either critiquing evidence provided by companies on different health technologies, or by carrying out an independent search and evaluation of the published evidence. Historically, there has been little patient and public involvement within the work of EAGs.

Objective

To identify key barriers and facilitators to patient and public involvement in EAG Reports feeding into the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence's Health Technology Appraisal process.

Methods

A primary qualitative study consisting of one‐to‐one interviews with EAG researchers and focus groups with members of the public. From anonymised transcripts, data were deductively coded using a framework analysis against the Theoretical Domains Framework and translated to the COM‐B model. Coding was triangulated through inductive thematic analysis, guided by the principles of Braun and Clarke.

Results

Ten researchers were interviewed and four focus groups with a total of 26 members of the public were undertaken. Both EAG researchers and the public felt they did not have enough knowledge, time and money to be able to embed patient and public involvement; researchers suggested that patient and public involvement might not be relevant to the scope of their Reports. Members of the public highlighted a lack of awareness of the Technology Appraisal process and that jargon may stop them being involved. Both researchers and members of the public said having specific guidance on how to embed patient and public involvement in EAG Reports would be helpful, including guidance on how to write plain language summaries.

Conclusion

The perspectives of both EAG researchers and members of the public suggest work needs to be conducted to produce frameworks for patient and public involvement and plain language summaries within EAG Reports specifically. Additionally, that further awareness‐raising of Technology Appraisals and the role of EAGs would help members of the public to contribute effectively to EAG Reports.

Patient or Public Contribution

Two members of the public were part of the research team and governed all stages of the research in accordance with the UK Standards for Public Involvement.
Rising mortality among people who inject drugs living with HIV in Scotland, UK: A 20‐year retrospective cohort study
Authors: Metcalfe R. , Fraser R. , Trayner K. M. A. , Glancy M. , Yeung A. , Sills L. , Ritchie T. , Priyadarshi S. , Peters S. E. , McAuley A. , Hutchinson S.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

Our aim was to examine mortality trends in the era of antiretroviral therapy, among people who inject drugs (PWID) who are living with HIV. The study objectives were to assess and quantify mortality among PWID diagnosed with HIV over time in Scotland, in the context of a recent outbreak of HIV and rise in drug‐related mortality.

Methods

This was a retrospective cohort study of those diagnosed with HIV in Scotland between January 2000 and February 2020, with acquisition related to injecting drug use, linked to mortality data. Factors associated with all‐cause mortality were examined using Cox proportional hazards regression.

Results

Among 430 individuals with 3143 person‐years (py) of follow‐up, 88 (20.5%) died. Drug‐related deaths accounted for 45.5% of all deaths, rising to 60% among those diagnosed in 2015–2020. The crude all‐cause mortality was 28.00 per 1000 py overall and 37.62 per 1000 py within 5 years of diagnosis. Mortality risk was markedly higher among PWID diagnosed in 2015–2020 [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) = 3.53], relative to those diagnosed in 2000–2004. Among those diagnosed in 2015–2020 (as part of the HIV outbreak), the mortality risk was higher among those not on, compared with those on, opioid agonist therapy (aHR = 3.87).

Conclusion

Mortality among PWID living with HIV in Scotland has risen substantially in the 21st century. Our findings highlight the important role of opioid‐agonist therapy, alongside other prevention and treatment measures to address high levels of drug‐related mortality for PWID living with HIV, including within HIV outbreaks in this population group.
Delineating Trajectories of Social‐Emotional Competence in Infants and Toddlers
Authors: Eyoh Ekomobong E. , Elison Jed T.
Published: November 2024

The acquisition of social‐emotional competence (SEC) in early childhood has implications for critical child and adult outcomes, such as school readiness, educational and occupational attainment, and mental health. To elucidate this developmental process, normative trajectories of social‐emotional competence in infants and toddlers were modeled using longitudinal mixed effects modeling, including the evaluation of child and family characteristics as moderators. The SEC of 12–36‐month‐old children (N = 256, 83% White, 51% female) was assessed in a cohort‐sequential design using the Infant Toddler Social‐Emotional Assessment Competence scale. Trajectories were modeled using linear, quadratic, exponential, and logistic mean forms. Following base model selection, child sex, maternal education, parental occupation, family income, and number of siblings were separately added to the model to assess their effect on trajectories. Results show that infants and toddlers SEC follows a quadratic pattern of growth. Additionally, girls had higher scores than boys at 12 months with similar slopes. Number of siblings was also significant at 12 months such that children with fewer siblings had higher scores than those with more with similar slopes. This suggests a female advantage in early SEC acquisition exists even before 12 months and that sibling number may moderate SEC in infancy and toddlerhood.
New perspective on the role of grain boundaries for hot‐corrosion studies on sintered 3YSZ ceramic
Authors: Sahu Spandan Prasad , Sarkar Himirkanti , Kumar Lakshaman , Chowdhury Anirban
Published: November 2024

The hot‐corrosion behavior of sintered 3 mol.% yttria‐stabilized zirconia (3YSZ) ceramic with significant (1:4 in ratio) variation in grain sizes was investigated. Contrary to the popular perception of the role of grain boundaries, ceramics with smaller grains portrayed remarkable hot‐corrosion resistance despite having ∼450% more grain boundaries compared to their counterpart. The mechanism behind a rather ‘unusual’ role of the grain boundary in deciding the corrosion pathways for 3YSZ ceramic systems was examined. The affinity of NaVO3 to react with Y2O3 was found to be a crucial step for the initiation of corrosion and this process had no potential influence on the fraction of grain boundaries in the system. A phase transformation (tetragonal to monoclinic) induced porosity created easy path for the molten liquid to flow inside the ZrO2 matrix. The ceramic with a smaller grain size resisted such a transformation and resulted in a much lower penetration depth for the corrosion to proceed further inside the matrix. Although grain boundaries are usually portrayed as weak points for corrosion, this study illustrates an alternate pathway using which corrosion can be averted in a fine grained 3YSZ ceramic.
When floodplain restoration meets socio‐ecological goals for rural stormwater management
Authors: Peterson Lisa A. , Awerbuch Patricia M. , Spatari Sabrina
Published: November 2024

Floodplain restoration is an approved stormwater management method, but rarely chosen by developers due to the perceived high cost and lengthy approvals required from regulatory agencies. Yet, when chosen, restoring a floodplain yields significant environmental benefits for the community due to improved flood resiliency and wetland habitat and superior reduction of negative externalities. In 2012, a corporation in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania, explored the option to restore a historic floodplain on its 40‐hectare property to fulfill the stormwater management requirements for a planned development project. There was a social dynamic at play in this instance that allowed the developer, municipality, and citizens to achieve a win across three dimensions often in conflict: maximizing private economic returns, achieving environmental compliance, and benefiting the community ecologically. Using a social–ecological system (SES) framework, this paper analyzes the course of the development project through the government approvals process and the actual restoration of the floodplain. Two influential actors are identified who do not often appear in the literature on SESs: sports advocacy groups and religious groups. We posit that the developer's industry was uniquely receptive to conservation appeals and that the proximity of an urban metropolis made collective action a relevant strategy for the region. Critical factors in the decision process were the cost–benefit analysis contracted by the developer, local (county) government leadership, and a history of local citizen activism. We conclude that a misalignment of anthropogenic and ecological boundaries can prevent such positive outcomes and that collective action is a viable strategy to overcome that challenge.
Statin‐associated regulation of hepatic PNPLA3 in patients without known liver disease
Authors: Ahmed Osman , Shavva Vladimir S. , Tarnawski Laura , Dai Wanmin , Borg Filip , Olofsson Viggo V. , Liu Ting , Saliba‐Gustafsson Peter , Simini Christian , Pedrelli Matteo , Bergman Otto , Norata Giuseppe Danilo , Parini Paolo , Franco‐Cereceda Anders , Eriksson Per , Malin Stephen G. , Björck Hanna M. , Olofsson Peder S.
Published: November 2024

Background and objectives

Statins are used for metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) (NAFLD) treatment, but their role in this context is unclear. Genetic variants of patatin‐like phospholipase domain containing 3 (PNPLA3) are associated with MASLD susceptibility and statin treatment efficacy. Access to liver biopsies before established MASLD is limited, and statins and PNPLA3 in early liver steatosis are thus difficult to study.

Methods

Liver biopsies were collected from 261 patients without known liver disease at surgery and stratified based on statin use and criteria for the metabolic syndrome (MS). Genotypes and transcript levels were measured using Illumina and Affymetrix arrays, and metabolic and lipoprotein profiles by clinical assays. Statin effects on PNPLA3, de novo lipogenesis (DNL), and lipid accumulation were further studied in vitro.

Results

The PNPLA3I148M genetic variant was associated with significantly lower hepatic levels of cholesterol synthesis‐associated transcripts. Patients with MS had significantly higher hepatic levels of MASLD and lipogenesis‐associated transcripts than non‐MS patients. Patients with MS on statin therapy had significantly higher hepatic levels of PNPLA3, acetyl‐CoA carboxylase alpha, and ATP citrate lyase, and statin use was associated with higher plasma fasting glucose, insulin, and HbA1c. Exposure of hepatocyte‐like HepG2 cells to atorvastatin promoted intracellular accumulation of triglycerides and lipogenesis‐associated transcripts. Atorvastatin‐exposure of HepG2, sterol O‐acyltransferase (SOAT) 2‐only‐HepG2, primary human hepatic stellate, and hepatic stellate cell‐like LX2 cells significantly increased levels of PNPLA3 and SREBF2‐target genes, whereas knockdown of SREBF2 attenuated this effect.

Conclusions

Collectively, these observations suggest statin‐associated regulation of PNPLA3 and DNL in liver. The potential interaction between PNPLA3 genotype and metabolic status should be considered in future studies in the context of statin therapy for MASLD.
Mergers and Attributions: An Examination of M&A Terminations in 1996–2022
Authors: Xing Zhe (Adele) , Yi Xiwei
Published: November 2024

Firms often make attributions regarding their actions in managing relationships with shareholders and investors. While research utilizing attribution theory has found that firms tend to attribute negative outcomes to external factors and positive outcomes to internal ones, this behaviour can have both positive and negative consequences. Addressing these contrasting results, our paper adopts a multidimensional framework of attribution to study how firms offer explanations for their actions. Leveraging insights from attribution theory and expectancy violation theory, we investigate whether investors respond diversely to firms' heterogeneous attributions for terminating acquisitions. Our findings indicate that an initial positive market reaction to an acquisition announcement is negatively correlated with the market reaction to the acquisition's termination. This negative relationship diminishes when the acquirer attributes the termination to external, uncontrollable and unstable factors. This paper contributes to the acquisition literature by highlighting multiple categories of attributions for firms to strategically manage market reactions.
Changes Over Time in Masseter Muscle Activity, Symptoms of Discomfort, Stress Level and Salivary Flow Rate Following Intra‐Oesophageal Acid Infusion
Authors: Takahashi Kotaro , Maeda‐Iino Aya , Oga Yasuhiko , Osako Yuki , Fukushima Mika , Harada Marina , Nakagawa Shoko , Hino Sayaka , Seong Changkeon , Kanmura Shuji , Ido Akio , Miyawaki Shouichi
Published: November 2024

Background

Intra‐oesophageal acid stimulation increases masseter muscle activity. However, the infusion speeds used in previous studies are significantly slow, with minimal acid volume (30 mL over 30 min). Additionally, it is unclear how masseter muscle activity, symptoms of discomfort, stress levels and saliva quantity change over time.

Objectives

The time course of masseter muscle activity, heartburn and discomfort symptoms, salivary cortisol concentration to assess stress, autonomic nervous system (ANS) activity and saliva quantity under the influence of intra‐oesophageal acid infusion were evaluated at a faster injection rate and larger volume than in previous studies.

Methods

Ten healthy adults underwent polygraphic monitoring, consisting of electromyography of the masseter muscle and electrocardiography during intra‐oesophageal acid infusion (10 mL/min, 10 min). Symptoms of heartburn and discomfort were assessed using the visual analogue scale (VAS), and saliva quantity was measured. Friedman's test was used for multiple comparisons.

Results

Masseter muscle activity, VAS scores for heartburn and discomfort, as well as saliva quantity during the 10‐min acid infusion, increased significantly compared with that before acid infusion (p < 0.001, 0.001, 0.019 and 0.047, respectively) and decreased 10 and 20 min after acid infusion (p = 0.004, 0.004 and 0.007, respectively). No significant changes were observed in the salivary cortisol concentration or ANS activity.

Conclusion

Intra‐oesophageal acid infusion stimulated symptoms of heartburn and discomfort and increased masseter muscle activity and saliva production, which may not be related to psychological stress.
Analysis of Temporomandibular Disorders, Bruxism and Well‐Being in Patients With Fibromyalgia Syndrome: A Case–Control Study
Authors: Esteve María , Rosales‐Leal Juan I.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To analyse temporomandibular disorders (TMD), bruxism and well‐being in patients with fibromyalgia and compare these outcomes with a control group.

Method

Diagnostic criteria for the assessment of TMD, bruxism and well‐being were used in a clinic context including patients with fibromyalgia (n = 71) and a control group of healthy subjects (n = 151). Participants completed an online questionnaire measuring temporomandibular pain, headache attributed to TMD, jaw locking, joint sounds, headache to bruxism, potential sleep bruxism, potential awake bruxism, jaw functional limitation scale 8 (JFLS‐8), generalised anxiety disorder scale 7, oral health impact profile scale 14, World Health Organization well‐being index (WHO‐5) and Pittsburgh sleep quality index (PSQI).

Results

TMD and bruxism were significantly associated with the type of population (χ2 = 8.77–57.62; p < 0.05; ES = 0.20–0.51). Fibromyalgia patients showed higher prevalence (% values) than control group in temporomandibular pain, headache attributed to TMD, jaw locking, headache attributed to potential bruxism, sleep bruxism and awake bruxism. However, there was a greater prevalence of joint sounds in the control group compared to the fibromyalgia group. Also, fibromyalgia patients scored significantly higher (p < 0.001) on JFLS‐8, GAD‐7, OHIP‐14 and PSQI with a large effect size (ES = 0.51–0.73), while WHO‐5 scores were significantly lower (ES = 0.58).

Conclusion

Patients with fibromyalgia had greater prevalence than the control group in TMJ pain, headache attributed to TMD, jaw locking, headache attributed to bruxism, sleep bruxism and awake bruxism. Another main finding was that patients with fibromyalgia had greater jaw functional limitation, generalised anxiety and impact of oral health on an individual's life. In addition, fibromyalgia patients showed lower sleep quality and well‐being index.
Dark ventral colouration indicates head size in a semi‐colonial gecko
Authors: Comas M.
Published: November 2024

Several animals present ornamental colouration which acts as signals in sexual or other social contexts by indicating some trait of the bearer. This colouration is often present only in one sex and may be produced by a varied combination of structural elements and several pigments. Given that colours may be produced in different ways, the traits the colouration is indicating, and the costs or trade?offs associated, may differ according to the colour and the species studied. Here, I study a dark ventral colouration present in males of the gecko Quedenfeldtia trachyblepharus, a high‐altitude, semi‐colonial lizard endemic to the High Atlas in North Africa. I tested for the correlation between the extension of the dark colouration and several morphological traits (body size, head size and limb length) in the gecko, as well as parasitism by mites and age. No relationship was found between dark colouration and parasitism, age and limb length, but the extension of the dark colouration was positively correlated with head size controlled for body size. Given that head size is usually a good indicator of fighting capacity, and this gecko shows a strong social structure, the findings suggest that the dark colouration is used in agonistic encounters among males, allowing for evaluation of the fighting capacity of the rivals.
PNPLA3 I148M Interacts With Environmental Triggers to Cause Human Disease
Authors: Speliotes Elizabeth K. , Schneider Carolin Victoria
Published: November 2024

Background

Metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD) affects up to 30% of Western populations. While obesity is a recognized risk factor, MASLD does not develop in all obese individuals, highlighting the need to understand genetic and environmental interactions. The PNPLA3 I148M variant has been identified as a key genetic risk factor, significantly increasing the likelihood of MASLD development and progression.

Methods

We reviewed current literature on the role of PNPLA3 I148M in MASLD, focusing on gene‐environment interactions involving diet, physical activity, obesity, and insulin resistance. We included studies analysing ethnic differences in PNPLA3 I148M prevalence and its association with MASLD. Additionally, we reviewed data on how PNPLA3 I148M influences the response to therapies, including lipid‐lowering medications and GLP‐1 agonists.

Results

The PNPLA3 I148M variant markedly heightens MASLD risk, particularly in Hispanic populations, where a higher prevalence of MASLD is observed. Lifestyle factors such as high sugar intake, alcohol consumption, and physical inactivity exacerbate MASLD risk among I148M carriers. Evidence shows that insulin resistance amplifies MASLD risk associated with the I148M variant, especially in non‐diabetic individuals. Moreover, the PNPLA3 I148M variant interacts with other genetic loci, further modifying MASLD risk and disease course. The variant also influences treatment response, with variability observed in effectiveness of lipid‐lowering therapies and GLP‐1 agonists among carriers.

Conclusion

The interplay between PNPLA3 I148M and environmental factors underscores the need for personalized MASLD prevention and treatment strategies. Targeting both genetic and lifestyle contributors may enhance MASLD management, offering a tailored approach to reducing disease burden.
Balancing Knowledge and Health: A Comparative Analysis of Students and Healthcare Workers Nutrition Related Health Behaviors, a Cross‐Sectional Study
Authors: Zaitoon Hussein , Kaly Lisa , Khalil Hadel , Zion Nataly
Published: November 2024

The study aimed to investigate nutrition‐related health behaviors among nursing and medical students compared to healthcare workers (HCWs), including nurses and physicians. A cross‐sectional survey was conducted between May and November 2022, using the I‐MEDAS and lifestyle‐related behavior questionnaires. The participants included nursing and medical students, nurses, and physicians, with a total of 384 participants: 16.9% physicians, 23.17% nurses, and 59.9% students, 93% of whom were nursing students. The average I‐MEDAS score (out of 17) was 7 for physicians, 8 for nurses, and 8 for students, with no significant differences in lifestyle behavior scores between the groups (p = 0.11), although nurses tended to score lower. Nurses also had a significantly higher BMI compared to physicians and students (p < 0.001). Physicians and nurses reported lower engagement in leisure activities and household chores, fewer sleep hours, and poorer sleep quality. The findings highlight a decline in healthy lifestyle behaviors and poor adherence to the Mediterranean diet among HCWs and students, particularly nurses, emphasizing the need for interventions to promote healthier habits in these groups.
New Minimally Invasive Method for Treating Posterior Pelvic Ring Fractures: Biomechanical Validation and Clinical Application of Sacroiliac Joint Locking Plate
Authors: Jin Liang , Hao Xiaorui , Zhang Zhenzhu , Zhang Qiaoli , Zhang Shuxin , Zhou Fei , Yang Shuirong , Zheng Weijie , Xiong Xiaohui , Gong Wanchen , Wang Yukun , Chen Xiaojie , Huang Jiexin
Published: November 2024

Objective

Considering the high incidence and complexity of unstable posterior pelvic ring fractures, and the need for less invasive and more effective treatment options, this study aims to introduce a novel minimally invasive, safe, and simple internal fixation method for the treatment of unstable posterior pelvic ring fractures using the sacroiliac joint locking plate (SJP) system, and to provide biomechanical validation and clinical evaluation of this method.

Methods

Biomechanical research was conducted using standard pelvic bone models from Synbone, Switzerland, to create Denis II zone unstable posterior pelvic ring fracture models, and to assess the stability of the SJP under different loads compared with traditional fixation methods. A retrospective clinical study analyzed the clinical efficacy of SJP treatment in 62 patients (mean age of 51.7 ± 11.9 years and male‐to‐female ratio of 42/20) treated at our hospital from October 2016 to January 2023.

Results

Biomechanical tests showed that at a maximum load of 300 N, the displacement values for the SJP (3.361 ± 0.246 mm) and two iliosacral (IS) screws (3.325 ± 0.335 mm) were significantly lower than those for a single IS screw (4.281 ± 0.399 mm) and tension band plate (TBP) (4.678 ± 0.534 mm). In the stiffness test of the compression‐separation experiment, the average stiffness of the SJP (92.09 ± 1.17 N/mm) was higher than that of a single IS screw (80.06 ± 2.57 N/mm) and TBP (71.67 ± 1.12 N/mm) (p < 0.05 for both), but lower than that of two IS screws (104.94 ± 1.16 N/mm) (p < 0.05). Clinically, postoperative pain scores decreased to 1.9 ± 0.9 after SJP surgery, which was a significant reduction compared with the preoperative score of 9.1 ± 1.1. Functional prognosis scores improved from 36.1 ± 11.5 preoperatively to 88.4 ± 14.2, showing a marked improvement. The postoperative Majeed scores for the patients were 87.4 ± 8.1, and the incidence of complications was low, with only one case reported so far.

Conclusion

The SJP demonstrates robust stability in biomechanical experiments, making it highly advantageous for clinical applications and widespread adoption. It offers several benefits, including straightforward surgical operation, minimal risk of vascular and neural injury, low surgical requirements, and eliminates the need for fluoroscopy. These advantages contribute to its remarkable clinical efficacy and potential for extensive utilization.