bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Flow properties of single origin chocolates: Effect of product formulation and particle size
Authors: Cooney J. , Kennedy T. , Monteiro Luciana , Martini Silvana
Published: June 2024

The objective of this research was to evaluate changes in flow behavior of chocolate during chocolate grinding using a stone grinder as affected by chocolate formulation. Three different types of chocolates were evaluated. Two chocolates without milk added (70% chocolate) and two chocolates with milk added and with different amounts of cocoa nibs (30% chocolate and 14% chocolate) were tested. For the 70% chocolates, nibs of two different origins were used; therefore, a total of four samples were evaluated. Chocolates were processed in a stone grinder, and samples were taken as a function of grinding time. For each timepoint, the flow behavior of the samples was measured using a rotational rheometer and fitted to the Casson model. Particle size was measured using a laser scattering instrument. Results showed that yield stress increased linearly while the Casson plastic viscosity decreased exponentially with grinding time (smaller particles). Particle size distribution of the chocolates showed a prominent bimodal distribution for short grinding times (∼9 h) with small (∼15 µm) and large (∼100 µm) particles; with longer grinding time, the population of larger particles decreased. Yield stress values were higher for the 70% chocolate, but they were not very different between the two milk chocolates tested. The Casson plastic viscosity was greatest for the 70% chocolate, followed by the 30% chocolate. The 14% chocolate had the lowest Casson plastic viscosity. Changes of Casson plastic viscosity with particle size were more evident for the dark chocolates compared to the milk ones. These results are helpful to small chocolate producers who need better understanding of how the formulation and grinding of chocolate affect its flow behavior, which will ultimately affect chocolate handling during production.
Mechanistic study on the improvement of immune inflammation in ankylosing spondylitis through regulation of the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway by Huangqin Qingre Chubi capsules
Authors: Cong Chengzhi , Liu Jian , Huang Dan , Li Yang , Chen Yiming , Hu Yuedi
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study aims to investigate the potential mechanisms by which the Hangqin Qingrechubi capsule (HQC) improves immunoinflammation in Ankylosing Spondylitis (AS).

Methods

The study combines systemic network pharmacology to predict, identify, and validate the core targets of HQC and AS. We conducted molecular docking to validate the interaction between the key active ingredients of HQC and the selected core targets associated with the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway, and employed data mining to delve deeper into the correlation between HQC usage and the improvement of clinical immunoinflammatory indicators. Additionally, AS‐PBMCs and FLS co‐culture cell models will be employed to further explore the mechanism of action of HQC in improving AS immune inflammation.

Results

Based on network pharmacology core target prediction, TNF‐α, IL‐17A, IL‐6, IL‐10, and AKT1 were identified as core targets, and KEGG enrichment analysis suggested that PI3K/AKT, IL‐17, and TNF might be key signaling pathways of HQC in improving immune inflammation in AS. The results of molecular docking demonstrated a favorable binding energy between the selected AKT1 core target and the key active components of HQC, including baicalin, baicalein, and quercetin. Clinical data mining revealed a significant correlation between HQC use and improvement in clinical immunoinflammatory indexes, such as ESR, CRP, IgA, IgM, IgG, C3, C4, patient perception scores (VAS, SAS, SDS), and (PF, SF) scores. In vitro cellular experiments further supported the significant ability of HQC to inhibit PI3K/AKT signaling pathway activation.

Conclusion

HQC, as an herbal compound preparation, exhibits anti‐inflammatory effects through multiple components and targets, making it a potential treatment option for AS. Furthermore, an underlying mechanism of action of HQC is its ability to ameliorate immune inflammation in AS patients by inhibiting the PI3K/AKT signaling pathway.
France: Political Developments and Data for 2023
Authors: BENDJABALLAH SELMA , SAUGER NICOLAS
Published: June 2024

France, in 2023, experienced continuing polarization. Unable to build a majority after the legislative elections of 2022 and facing a fragmented opposition with no capacity to propose an alternative majority, President Macron managed to sustain a minority government throughout the year. Outside of the parliamentary arena, polarization led to a series of social protests, particularly triggered by the pension reform and the immigration bills.
Achilles' spear: A new therapeutic target for age‐related diseases
Authors: Xuan Yang , Duan Yue
Published: June 2024

The role of the senescence‐associated secretory phenotype (SASP) in the development of age‐related diseases is significant, and its control promises to have a tremendous positive impact on health. A recent study has identified a new mechanism for SASP regulation, titled miMOMP. Failure to regulate SASP would dramatically increase the risk of various age‐related health problems. Nonetheless, we have not completely comprehended how to modulate SASP. In this commentary, we summarise the specific mechanisms by which miMOMP regulates SASP and outline possible future research directions. Moreover, potential risks and obstacles to the clinical translation of miMOMP are also presented.
The gut‐brain axis in individuals with alcohol use disorder: An exploratory study of associations among clinical symptoms, brain morphometry, and the gut microbiome
Authors: Maki Katherine A. , Wallen Gwenyth R. , Bastiaanssen Thomaz F. S. , Hsu Li‐Yueh , Valencia Michael E. , Ramchandani Vijay A. , Schwandt Melanie L. , Diazgranados Nancy , Cryan John F. , Momenan Reza , Barb Jennifer J.
Published: June 2024

Background

Alcohol use disorder (AUD) is commonly associated with distressing psychological symptoms. Pathologic changes associated with AUD have been described in both the gut microbiome and brain, but the mechanisms underlying gut‐brain signaling in individuals with AUD are unknown. This study examined associations among the gut microbiome, brain morphometry, and clinical symptoms in treatment‐seeking individuals with AUD.

Methods

We performed a secondary analysis of data collected during inpatient treatment for AUD in subjects who provided gut microbiome samples and had structural brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI; n = 16). Shotgun metagenomics sequencing was performed, and the morphometry of brain regions of interest was calculated. Clinical symptom severity was quantified using validated instruments. Gut‐brain modules (GBMs) used to infer neuroactive signaling potential from the gut microbiome were generated in addition to microbiome features (e.g., alpha diversity and bacterial taxa abundance). Bivariate correlations were performed between MRI and clinical features, microbiome and clinical features, and MRI and microbiome features.

Results

Amygdala volume was significantly associated with alpha diversity and the abundance of several bacteria including taxa classified to Blautia, Ruminococcus, Bacteroides, and Phocaeicola. There were moderate associations between amygdala volume and GBMs, including butyrate synthesis I, glutamate synthesis I, and GABA synthesis I & II, but these relationships were not significant after false discovery rate (FDR) correction. Other bacterial taxa with shared associations to MRI features and clinical symptoms included Escherichia coli and Prevotella copri.

Conclusions

We identified gut microbiome features associated with MRI morphometry and AUD‐associated symptom severity. Given the small sample size and bivariate associations performed, these results require confirmation in larger samples and controls to provide meaningful clinical inferences. Nevertheless, these results will inform targeted future research on the role of the gut microbiome in gut‐brain communication and how signaling may be altered in patients with AUD.
Blockade of thromboxane A2 signaling attenuates ethanol‐induced myocardial inflammatory response in mice
Authors: Ai Weilun , Casey Carol A. , Mishra Paras Kumar , Alnouti Yazen , Daria Sohel , Saraswathi Viswanathan
Published: June 2024

Background

Alcohol‐associated cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a cardiac muscle disease characterized by inflammation and oxidative stress. Thromboxane‐prostanoid receptor (TP‐R) plays an important role in the pathogenesis of cardiovascular disease. Herein, we hypothesize that TP‐R mediates alcohol‐induced early cardiac injury.

Methods

Eight‐week‐old male C57BL/6 wild‐type mice were fed a chronic ethanol (ET) or control diet (CON) for 10 days followed by a single binge of ethanol or maltose‐dextrin through oral gavage. A cohort of ethanol‐fed mice received SQ 29,548 (SQ), a TP‐R antagonist. RNA sequencing, real‐time PCR, and western blot analysis were performed on left ventricle to investigate alterations in genes and/or proteins mediating oxidative stress, inflammation, and cardiac remodeling. Sirius Red staining was performed to measure myocardial fibrosis.

Results

RNA‐sequencing analysis of myocardium from CON and ET groups identified 142 genes that were significantly altered between the two groups. In particular, the gene expression of thioredoxin‐interacting protein (TXNIP), a component of NLR family pyrin domain containing 3 (NLRP3) signaling, which mediates oxidative stress and inflammatory response, was upregulated in response to ethanol exposure. The myocardial protein levels of TP‐R and thromboxane A2 synthase were increased upon alcohol exposure. Ethanol increased the levels of 4‐hydroxynonenal, a marker of oxidative stress, with a concomitant increase in the protein levels of TXNIP and NLRP3, and administration of SQ attenuated these effects. Additionally, ethanol increased the protein levels of pro‐inflammatory mediators, including tumor necrosis factor alpha and the NLRP3 downstream product, secretory interleukin 1 beta, and SQ blunted these effects. Finally, the Sirius red staining of the myocardium revealed an increase in collagen deposition in ethanol‐fed mice which was attenuated by TP‐R antagonism.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates that ethanol promotes the NLRP3 signaling pathway within the myocardium, leading to a pro‐inflammatory milieu that potentially initiates early myocardial remodeling, and TP‐R antagonism attenuates this effect.
Macro‐anatomical investigations on the skeleton of the Egyptian hedgehog (Hemiechinus auratus aegyptius)
Authors: Hassan Said Ahmed Mohamed , Basha Walaa Abdelwahab Abdelghani
Published: June 2024

The skeletal anatomy of wild animals plays a major role in their adaptation to their habitats. Information regarding the skeletal architecture of the Egyptian long‐eared hedgehog (Hemiechinus auratus aegyptius), a terrestrial and nocturnal insectivorous mammal, was lacking. Current work described the detailed bone formation of this species' skeleton grossly and morphometrically. Skeletons of five adults, apparently healthy hedgehogs of both sexes, aged 10 ± 2 months, were obtained. Preparation of the bones was accomplished by using a hot water maceration procedure. The skull was elongated. The external sagittal crest and temporal lines were unclear. The mental foramen was ventral to P2. The angular process of the mandible was large. The vertebral formula was C7, T13, L6, S3, Ca 13–15. The transverse foramen was absent in the seventh cervical vertebra. The sternum was formed of five sternal segments. There was a supratrochlear foramen on the distal part of the humerus diaphysis, connecting the radial and the olecranon fossae. The radius and ulna were fused by connective tissue. The carpals had three bones in the proximal row and four bones in the distal row. There were five metacarpals with five digits. The acetabulum was circular and had deep acetabular fossa. The foramen obturatum was ovoid. The pelvic symphysis was confined only to the ischium. The greater trochanter of the femur was lower than the level of the femoral head. The trochanteric fossa was deep and oval. Tibia and fibula fused distally. Two tarsals were in the proximal row and four in the distal row. There were five metatarsals with five digits. These findings provide the anatomical basis for understanding the adaptation mechanisms of this hedgehog species to their feeding habits and habitats and aim to help veterinarians, taxonomists, and wildlife biologists' in future biomedical and comparative skeletal anatomical studies.
Hypothermic Oxygenated machine PErfusion for high‐risk liver grafts for transplantation: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Risbey Charles W. G. , Thomas Charles , Niu Anita , Liu Ken , Crawford Michael , Pulitano Carlo
Published: June 2024

Background

Hypothermic Oxygenated machine PErfusion (HOPE) can reduce ischemic reperfusion injury and improve outcomes for liver transplant recipients. However, the effect of HOPE on high‐risk extended criteria donor (ECD) and donation after circulatory death determination (DCDD) grafts is incomplete, despite the expectation that this cohort benefit maximally from HOPE. Accordingly, this paper aims to characterize the effect of HOPE on ECD and DCDD grafts.

Methods

This study includes all papers comparing HOPE to static cold storage for high‐risk ECD and DCDD grafts. Systematic searches of Medline, Embase, and Scopus were completed using the terms “HOPE” OR “hypothermic oxygenated machine perfusion” AND “liver transplantation”. Data were extracted and analyzed using IBM SPSS to perform the meta‐analysis.

Results

A total of 2286 records were identified, with 10 meeting the inclusion criteria. Overall, the quality of evidence is heterogenous with many papers relying on retrospective controls. However, pooled analysis demonstrates HOPE to significantly reduce the rate of early allograft dysfunction, 12‐month graft failure, re‐transplantation, total biliary complications, and non‐anastomotic strictures for high‐risk grafts.

Conclusions

There is good evidence that HOPE improves outcomes following liver transplantation across a number of biochemical and clinical endpoints for high‐risk grafts. Of note, the reduction in biliary complications and re‐transplantation is particularly significant given the morbidity associated with these endpoints. However, further, high‐quality prospective trials with contemporary controls and clinically relevant primary endpoints are needed to better define the impact of HOPE for this cohort of grafts.
Birthweight charts customised for maternal height optimises the classification of small and large‐for‐gestational age newborns
Authors: Zeegers Bert , Offerhaus Pien , Hoftiezer Liset , Groenendaal Floris , Zimmermann Luc J. I. , Verhoeven Corine , Gordijn Sanne J. , Nieuwenhuijze Marianne J.
Published: June 2024

Aim

To construct birthweight charts customised for maternal height and evaluate the effect of customization on SGA and LGA classification.

Methods

Data were extracted (n = 21 350) from the MiCaS project in the Netherlands (2012–2020). We constructed the MiCaS‐birthweight chart customised for maternal height using Hadlock's method. We defined seven 5‐centimetre height categories from 153 to 157 cm until 183–187 cm and calculated SGA and LGA prevalences for each category, using MiCaS and current Dutch birthweight charts.

Results

The MiCaS‐chart showed substantially higher birthweight values between identical percentiles with increasing maternal height. In the Dutch birthweight chart, not customised for maternal height, the prevalence of SGA (p90) increased with increasing height category, from 1.4% in the lowest height category to 21.8% in the highest category (range 20.4%). In the MiCaS‐birthweight chart, SGA and LGA prevalences were more constant across maternal heights, similar to overall prevalences (SGA range 3.3% and LGA range 1.7%).

Conclusion

Compared to the current Dutch birthweight chart, the MiCaS‐birthweight chart customised for maternal height shows a more even distribution of SGA and LGA prevalences across maternal heights.
Comorbidities and complications in adult and paediatric patients with pyruvate kinase deficiency: Analysis from the Peak Registry
Authors: Glenthøj Andreas , Grace Rachael F. , Lander Carl , van Beers Eduard J. , Glader Bertil , Kuo Kevin H. M. , Yan Yan , McGee Bryan , Boscoe Audra N. , Li Junlong , Bianchi Paola
Published: June 2024

Pyruvate kinase (PK) deficiency, a rare, congenital haemolytic anaemia caused by mutations in the PKLR gene, is associated with many clinical manifestations, but the full disease burden has yet to be characterised. The Peak Registry (NCT03481738) is an observational, longitudinal registry of adult and paediatric patients with PK deficiency. Here, we described comorbidities and complications in these patients by age at most recent visit and PKLR genotype. As of 13 May 2022, 241 patients were included in the analysis. In total, 48.3% had undergone splenectomy and 50.5% had received chelation therapy. History of iron overload (before enrolment/during follow‐up) was common (52.5%), even in never‐transfused patients (20.7%). Neonatal complications and symptoms included jaundice, splenomegaly and hepatomegaly, with treatment interventions required in 41.5%. Among adults, osteopenia/osteoporosis occurred in 19.0% and pulmonary hypertension in 6.7%, with median onset ages of 37, 33 and 22 years, respectively. Biliary events and bone health problems were common across PKLR genotypes. Among 11 patients who had thromboembolic events, eight had undergone prior splenectomy. Patients with PK deficiency may have many complications, which can occur early in and throughout life. Awareness of their high disease burden may help clinicians better provide appropriate monitoring and management of these patients.
The comparative efficacy and safety of factor Xa inhibitors and warfarin for primary thromboprophylaxis in multiple myeloma patients undergoing immunomodulatory therapy
Authors: Chang Yu‐Cheng , Song Junmin , Chi Kuan‐Yu , Gao Wenli , Chang Yu , Chiang Cho‐Hung , Hsia Yuan Ping , Chiang Cho‐Han
Published: June 2024

There are limited data on the optimal choice of anticoagulation in multiple myeloma (MM) patients receiving immunomodulatory drugs (IMiDs). We conducted a propensity score‐matched cohort study using the TriNetX database to compare the efficacy and safety of factor Xa inhibitors and warfarin in this patient population. Compared to warfarin, factor Xa inhibitors had a similar risk of deep vein thrombosis (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.11 [95% CI: 0.50–2.46]) or pulmonary embolism (HR: 1.08 [95% CI: 0.59–2.00]). There were no differences in the risk of gastrointestinal or intracranial bleeding. Factor Xa inhibitor‐treated patients had lower all‐cause mortality (HR: 0.56 [95% CI: 0.36–0.86]) compared with warfarin. These data suggest that factor Xa inhibitors had similar safety and efficacy compared with warfarin for MM patients on IMiDs.
Unethical prosocial behaviour and self‐dehumanization: The roles of social connectedness and perceived morality
Authors: Wang Jingyan , Zhang Hong
Published: June 2024

Unethical prosocial behaviour (UPB) refers to acts where people violate widely held moral rules to benefit others. In light of previous research on the association between immoral behaviours and dehumanization, we examined whether and how engaging in UPB would impact the tendency to self‐dehumanize. Across four studies (valid N = 1640), we found that UPB led to less self‐dehumanization than unethical proself behaviour, which was mediated sequentially by social connectedness and perceived morality (Studies 2–4). Moreover, the comparison between UPB and ethical prosocial behaviour indicated that UPB did not necessarily lead to more self‐dehumanization than ethical prosocial behaviour (Study 4). Although UPB was rated as less moral, it was associated with similar levels of social connectedness as ethical prosocial behaviour. These results have significant implications for research on morality and dehumanization and highlight the role of social connectedness in reducing dehumanization.
Different power perceptions based on socially situated needs: Findings from a qualitative study among Asian Americans
Authors: Jeong Hu Young , Vollhardt Johanna Ray , Twali Michelle S. , Tawa John
Published: June 2024

While power is often defined and operationalized as control or influence over others, alternative conceptualizations define power as the ability to meet various fundamental needs. We argue that this conceptualization may better capture how marginalized minority group members understand their group's power or powerlessness. However, there is little research examining how people themselves construe group‐based power. The present study, therefore, used qualitative inquiry to examine perceived ingroup power among Asian Americans, an underrepresented racial minority group with an ambivalent power status in society. Reflexive thematic analysis of 25 interviews illustrated the relevance of Prilleltensky's (J. Community Psychol., 36, 2008, 116) psychopolitical conceptualization of power. Specifically, we identified eight themes that reflect various context‐specific construals of power as oppression, wellness and liberation. Additionally, the findings suggest the need to consider intragroup heterogeneity in power and to situate how power is understood in the given sociopolitical, structural context.
Brain and plasmatic CLUSTERIN are translational markers of Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Tournier Benjamin B. , Ceyzériat Kelly , Marteyn Antoine , Amossé Quentin , Badina Aurélien M. , Tsartsalis Stergios , Herrmann François R. , Zekry Dina , Millet Philippe
Published: June 2024

Early diagnosis of late‐onset Alzheimer's disease (AD) by peripheral biomarkers remains a challenge; many have been proposed, but none have been evaluated in a prospective manner. CLUSTERIN (CLU), a chaperone protein expressed in the brain and found in relatively high concentrations in plasma, is a promising candidate. CLU contributes to the elimination of β‐amyloid (Aβ), which is associated to neurofibrillary tangles and to the genetic risk for AD. We performed a longitudinal measurement of CLU in the brain and the plasma in 3xTgAD mice. Assessment of CLU was also conducted in 12‐month‐old TgF344‐AD rats. In humans, brain CLU was measured in non‐demented and in AD subjects. The plasma CLU was longitudinally measured in four cohorts defined as healthy controls that remained stable, healthy controls that presented a cognitive decline between the two measures, mild cognitive impairment (MCI) that presented a cognitive decline between the two measures and AD. A validation cohort composed of 19 MCI was used and plasma CLU was measured before and after conversion in AD. Increases in CLU were measured in the hippocampus of 3xTgAD and TgF344‐AD animals in the absence of plasmatic changes. CLU is heterogeneously expressed in the hippocampus in non‐demented individuals and increased in AD. In the plasma, two CLU levels were measured: low in controls and MCI, and high in AD. To validate that the elevation in CLU is associated with conversion to AD, a replication study showed, in a second group MCI patients converting to AD in the follow‐up that CLU levels increased in 16/19 individuals. The increase in brain CLU occurs in AD models as in humans, and seems to precede plasma variations, which could make it an AD therapeutic target. Plasma CLU seems to be a promising marker of cognitive decline, and its association with AD may be a useful complementary diagnostic tool.
Assessing motivational interviewing integrity in the Toddler Oral Health Intervention study
Authors: van Spreuwel Peggy C. J. M. , Voets Esther , Bruijning Janna , van Loveren Cor , van der Heijden Geert J. M. G. , Jerković‐Ćosić Katarina
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The Toddler Oral Health Intervention (TOHI) was launched in 2017 to promote oral health prevention at well‐baby clinics, with a focus on parents with children aged 6–48 months. This study aims to evaluate the integrity of motivational interviewing (MI) as one of the core intervention pillars in the TOHI study.

Methods

The TOHI study was conducted at nine well‐baby clinics in the central and southern regions of the Netherlands, with 11 trained oral health coaches (OHCs) delivering a tailored individual counselling programme. Audio recordings of counselling sessions were uploaded by the OHCs into an online portal for feedback and integrity evaluation purposes. A trained independent assessor evaluated MI integrity using the MITI 4.2.1 coding scale. IBM SPSS Statistics was used to analyse the data, with ratings on technical and relational components and behavior counts computed by adding up the scores and categorizing them into six key MI skills. Descriptive statistics, including frequencies, percentages and median scores with interquartile ranges, were calculated.

Results

The median ratings on the technical and relational components were 2.5 (IQR 2.0–3.5) and 3.5 (IQR 3.0–4.0) out of a maximum of 5, with 45% and 58% of recordings showing fair or good MI integrity, respectively. A median of 38% (IQR 25–55%) of complex reflections and a reflection‐to‐question ratio of 0.7 (IQR 0.4–1.0), with 47% and 24% of recordings showing fair or good MI integrity, respectively. Median counts of MI‐adherent and non‐adherent statements were 3.0 (IQR 2.0–5.0) and 0.0 (IQR 0.0–1.0), respectively. The duration of recordings and MI integrity varied among oral health coaches.

Conclusion

Overall, this study revealed that, while intensive training was provided, not all OHCs in the TOHI study met fair thresholds for MI integrity. These findings emphasize the necessity of ongoing training, reflection and support to achieve and maintain a fair or good level of MI integrity in clinical practice.
Artistic Style Transfer Based on Attention with Knowledge Distillation
Authors: Al‐Mekhlafi Hanadi , Liu Shiguang
Published: June 2024

Artistic style transfer involves the adaption of an input image to reflect the style of a reference image while maintaining its original content. This technique, now a prominent focus due to its prospective use in creative fields like digital art and graphic design, typically applies normalization techniques and attention mechanisms. While these methods yield decent results, they often fall short due to distortion of content image details and non‐artefact styles. In this paper, we introduce a novel approach that synergizes adaptive instance normalization (AdaIN), attention mechanisms, knowledge distillation (KD) and strategically placed internal layers, and new enhancements designed to preserve content details and provide a nuanced control over the style transfer process. We introduce a Detail Enhancement Module to amplify high‐frequency details in the content image, enhancing edge and texture preservation. A Multi‐scale Strategy is implemented to ensure uniform style application across various detail levels, leading to more coherent stylization. The Content Feature Refinement process refines content features, sharpening and emphasizing details to preserve structural and textural integrity. AdaIN's distinctive feature of efficiently collecting style data is exploited in our approach, coupled with attention mechanisms' inherent ability to conserve content information. We supplement this blend with KD for the enhancement of model accuracy and efficiency. Additionally, the introduction of internal layers acts as a conduit to further improve the style transfer process, increasing the transfer level of features and fostering better stylized results. The cornerstone of our technique lies in preserving the content structure amidst complex style transfers. Experimental results affirm the superior performance of our method over existing techniques in both quantitative and qualitative evaluations.
Effects of hard‐ and/or soft‐tissue grafting with early implant placement: Histomorphometric outcomes of an exploratory study in canines
Authors: Lim Hyun‐Chang , Lee Kwang‐Seok , Jung Ronald E. , Naenni Nadja , Jung Ui‐Won , Thoma Daniel S.
Published: June 2024

Objective

To histomorphometrically determine the effects of hard‐ and/or soft‐tissue augmentation by applying the early implant placement protocol.

Materials and Methods

The distal roots of the maxillary second and third premolars were extracted in 10 mongrel dogs. After 1 month, early implant placement was performed in the distal roots, resulting in buccal dehiscence defects. Four treatments were then randomly applied: (1) guided bone regeneration (GBR), (2) connective tissue grafting (CTG), (3) simultaneous GBR and CTG (GBR + CTG) and (4) no further treatment (control). Healing abutments were connected to all implants to allow non‐submerged healing. At 4 and 16 weeks, tissue sections were harvested and histomorphometric analyses were performed.

Results

Group GBR presented the largest total tissue thickness at 4 weeks, but underwent a greater remodelling compared with the other groups between 4 and 16 weeks. At 16 weeks, the overall tissue thickness was largest in group GBR + CTG. This group was also the most favourable in terms of the level of the margo mucosae and the presence of mineralized tissue at the coronal level. Group CTG demonstrated a stable tissue thickness over time, with a larger thickness at 16 weeks compared with group GBR.

Conclusion

Simultaneous CTG and GBR resulted in the most‐favourable tissue thickness when applying the early implant placement protocol.
Decreased complexity of glucose time series index associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes in gestational diabetes mellitus
Authors: Liang Guiling , Lai Mengyu , Wang Yaxin , Li Na , Kang Mei , Lu Jingyi , Su Yanmei , Fang Fang , Peng Yongde , Xu Xianming , Weng Jianrong , Zhou Jian , Wang Yufan
Published: June 2024

Aim

We investigated the relationship between the complexity of the glucose time series index (CGI) during pregnancy and adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM).

Materials and Methods

In this retrospective cohort study, 388 singleton pregnant women with GDM underwent continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) at a median of 26.86 gestational weeks. CGI was calculated using refined composite multiscale entropy based on CGM data. The participants were categorized into tertiles according to their baseline CGI (CGI <2.32, 2.32‐3.10, ≥3.10). Logistic regression was used to assess the association between CGI and composite adverse outcomes or large for gestational age (LGA). The discrimination performance of CGI was estimated using receiver operating characteristic analysis.

Results

Of the 388 participants, 71 (18.3%) had LGA infants and 63 (16.2%) had composite adverse outcomes. After adjustments were made for confounders, compared with those with a high CGI (CGI ≥3.10), participants with a low CGI (CGI <2.32) had a higher risk of composite adverse outcomes (odds ratio: 12.10, 95% confidence interval: 4.41‐33.18) and LGA (odds ratio: 12.68, 95% confidence interval: 4.04‐39.75). According to the receiver operating characteristic analysis, CGI was significantly better than glycated haemoglobin and conventional CGM indicators for the prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes (all p < .05).

Conclusion

A lower CGI during pregnancy was associated with composite adverse outcomes and LGA. CGI, a novel glucose homeostasis predictor, seems to be superior to conventional glucose indicators for the prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes in women with GDM.
Does size matter? Exploring the influence of body size on predator–prey relationships, hunting mode and prey characteristics in Neotropical fishes
Authors: Garcia Thiago Deruza , Strictar Larissa , Fugi Rosemara , Vidotto‐Magnoni Ana Paula
Published: June 2024

The development of diverse capture mechanisms during foraging allows predators to select their preys and succeed in their capture, with the least energy expenditure possible. In this context, we seek to understand how prey selection mechanisms exhibited by freshwater fish piscivores relate to their foraging mode. The study was carried out in the floodplain of the Upper Paraná River, where fish were captured from March 2006 to June 2013. The fish were identified and measured, their stomachs were removed, and the stomach contents were analysed. Quantile regressions were used to evaluate possible effects and relationships between the sizes of piscivores and their prey. A significant positive effect on the predator–prey size relationship was observed, indicating an increased size of consumed prey with increased size of piscivore, mainly for Acestrorhynchus lacustris, Hoplerythrinus unitaeniatus, Hoplias intermedius, Hoplias mbigua, Hoplias sp. 2, Pseudoplatystoma corruscans, Rhaphiodon vulpinus and Salminus brasiliensis. Ambush predators were more likely to consume slow‐moderate and fast prey, while pursue predators only consume fast prey. Several mechanisms can influence a piscivore's foraging behaviour, and body size is an important factor for both the piscivore and its prey. From the prey's point of view, the way they swim and the complexity of the habitat are important characteristics to ensure their survival. For piscivores, the foraging mode will influence the type of prey consumed, depending on the prey's swimming mode.
Assessment of decay caused by Trametes flavida and Daldinia eschscholtzii on several hardwood species
Authors: Ador Md. Ahosan Habib , Ahmed Romel , Dey Biplob , Haque Mohammed Masum Ul
Published: June 2024

Wood‐decay fungi are major contributors to damage wood and logs, resulting in substantial economic losses. This study assessed the decay caused by Trametes flavida and Daldinia eschscholtzii on Gmelina arborea, Samanea saman, Albizia lebbeck, Acacia auriculiformis and Swietenia mahagoni. Both fungi demonstrated their ability to decay wood. However, the extent of damage varied significantly among the tested hardwood species. Findings showed that Trametes flavida caused greater wood mass and density loss than Daldinia eschscholtzii. Among the tested hardwood species, G. arborea was found to be more susceptible to the decay fungi, followed by S. saman, A. lebbeck, A. auriculiformis and S. mahagoni, respectively. The study will encourage the scientific management of timber and logs in sawmill depots to minimize the decay of wood and incurred economic loss.
Fungi associated with necrotic and asymptomatic galls of Dryocosmus kuriphilus (Hymenoptera: Cynipidae) and the adults of its parasitoid Torymus sinensis in chestnut growing areas of Turkey
Authors: Çakar Deniz , Akıllı Şimşek Seçil , Maden Salih
Published: June 2024

The chestnut gall wasp (CGW) Dryocosmus kuriphilus is a serious pest of chestnuts (Castanea sativa) in many chestnut growing areas in Turkey. Out of 200 galls randomly collected from four different areas of Yalova and Giresun provinces, 116 showed necrosis, while 84 were asymptomatic. Fungi associated with the necrotic and asymptomatic galls were determined based on morphology and DNA sequencing. Gnomoniopsis smithogilvyi, Colletotrichum acutatum, Penicillium glabrum, Botrysphaeria dothidea, Trichoderma atroviridea, and Botrytis cinerea were found on 49, 11, 10, 8, 7, and 1 necrotic galls, respectively. On the other hand, G. smithogilvyi, Fusarium proliferatum, Aureobasidium sp., C. godetiae, Rhizopus stolonifer, P. glabrum, C. acutatum, Cladosporium sp., Alternaria spp., and Aspergillus sp. were hosted by 37, 35, 15, 14, 12, 8, 6, 3, 1, and 1 asymptomatic galls, respectively. Seven fungi, G. smithogilvyi, C. acutatum, F. proliferatum, B. dothidea, Cryphonectria parasitica, Diplodina castanea, and Penicillium sp. were isolated from 31, 6, 4, 1, 1, 1, and 1 of the dead larvae of D. kuriphilus, respectively. Two fungi, F. proliferatum and Penicillium sp., were isolated from the adults of Torymus sinensis, a parasitoid of CGW. Pathogenicity of G. smithogilvyi, C. acutatum, and F. proliferatum detected from dead larvae of D. kuriphilus and galls was tested on young chestnut saplings: the former two produced necrosis while the third one did not.
Challenges in the most challenging course as perceived by the students of health sciences during the Covid‐19 pandemic: What are they and who were struggling the most?
Authors: Diep Anh Nguyet , Philippe Geneviève , Counasse Ludivine , Hubert Philippe , Donneau Anne‐Françoise
Published: June 2024

The immediate shift to remote teaching or distance learning, due to COVID‐19 management strategies, most notably limited in‐person contact, was abruptly implemented in universities worldwide. This process was demanding for both the instructors and the students, notwithstanding. The present study examined the challenges in a course attributed as the most challenging during the Covid‐19 pandemic by health sciences students of different socio‐demographic backgrounds, life circumstances, educational background and academic achievement (N = 743). A questionnaire was designed and translated to French employing the forward‐backward translation method. The factor structure and reliability were examined by Categorical Principal Component Analysis (CATPCA) and Cronbach's alpha, respectively. Chi‐square tests with post‐hoc examinations using adjusted standardized residuals and z‐tests of independent proportions were performed to investigate the group differences. Participants were bachelor and master students of Medicine, Pharmacy, Biomedicine, Physiotherapy, Public Health, Motor Sciences (Physical Education) and Dentistry from the University of Liege, Belgium. Results revealed that the most three reported challenges were difficult learning content, course intensity, feeling of stress and worry. Additionally, online learning implementation due to Covid‐19 measures, feeling of failure (not having learnt what was supposed to be learnt) and lack of instructors’ interaction and support were mentioned as the prominent challenges encountered. Furthermore, more bachelor, full‐time and female students, students who were in early stages of the learning trajectory and low and averaged achievers reported experiencing challenges with difficult learning content, course intensity, stress and online learning. The findings, thus, emphasized the role of faculty‐led and instructors’ support in the early stages of students’ learning trajectory and adequate attention to their well‐being if online learning is to be institutionalized.
Mortality among veterans with epilepsy: Temporal significance of traumatic brain injury exposure
Authors: Roghani Ali , Wang Chen‐Pin , Henion Amy , Amuan Megan , Altalib Hamada , LaFrance W. Curt , Baca Christine , Van Cott Anne , Towne Alan , Kean Jacob , Hinds Sidney R. , Kennedy Eamonn , Panahi Samin , Pugh Mary Jo
Published: June 2024

Objective

Epilepsy is associated with significant mortality risk. There is limited research examining how traumatic brain injury (TBI) timing affects mortality in relation to the onset of epilepsy. We aimed to assess the temporal relationship between epilepsy and TBI regarding mortality in a cohort of post‐9/11 veterans.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study included veterans who received health care in the Defense Health Agency and the Veterans Health Administration between 2000 and 2019. For those diagnosed with epilepsy, the index date was the date of first antiseizure medication or first seizure; we simulated the index date for those without epilepsy. We created the study groups by the index date and first documented TBI: (1) controls (no TBI, no epilepsy), (2) TBI only, (3) epilepsy only, (4) TBI before epilepsy, (5) TBI within 6 months after epilepsy, and (6) TBI >6 months after epilepsy. Kaplan–Meier estimates of all‐cause mortality were calculated, and log‐rank tests were used to compare unadjusted cumulative mortality rates among groups compared to controls. Cox proportional hazard models were used to compute hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results

Among 938 890 veterans, 27 436 (2.92%) met epilepsy criteria, and 264 890 (28.22%) had a TBI diagnosis. Mortality was higher for veterans with epilepsy than controls (6.26% vs. 1.12%; p < .01). Veterans with TBI diagnosed ≤6 months after epilepsy had the highest mortality hazard (HR = 5.02, 95% CI = 4.21–5.99) compared to controls, followed by those with TBI before epilepsy (HR = 4.25, 95% CI = 3.89–4.58), epilepsy only (HR = 4.00, 95% CI = 3.67–4.36), and TBI >6 months after epilepsy (HR = 2.49, 95% CI = 2.17–2.85). These differences were significant across groups.

Significance

TBI timing relative to epilepsy affects time to mortality; TBI within 6 months after epilepsy or before epilepsy diagnosis was associated with earlier time to death compared to those with epilepsy only or TBI >6 months after epilepsy.
Preclinical efficacy profiles of the sigma‐1 modulator E1R and of fenfluramine in two chronic mouse epilepsy models
Authors: Pérez‐Pérez Daniel , Monío‐Baca Cristina , von Rüden Eva‐Lotta , Buchecker Verena , Wagner Amelie , Schönhoff Katharina , Zvejniece Liga , Klimpel Dennis , Potschka Heidrun
Published: June 2024

Objective

Given its key homeostatic role affecting mitochondria, ionotropic and metabotropic receptors, and voltage‐gated ion channels, sigma‐1 receptor (Sig1R) represents an interesting target for epilepsy management. Antiseizure effects of the positive allosteric modulator E1R have already been reported in acute seizure models. Although modulation of serotonergic neurotransmission is considered the main mechanism of action of fenfluramine, its interaction with Sig1R may be of additional relevance.

Methods

To further explore the potential of Sig1R as a target, we assessed the efficacy and tolerability of E1R and fenfluramine in two chronic mouse models, including an amygdala kindling paradigm and the intrahippocampal kainate model. The relative contribution of the interaction with Sig1R was analyzed using combination experiments with the Sig1R antagonist NE‐100.

Results

Whereas E1R exerted pronounced dose‐dependent antiseizure effects at well‐tolerated doses in fully kindled mice, only limited effects were observed in response to fenfluramine, without a clear dose dependency. In the intrahippocampal kainate model, E1R failed to influence electrographic seizure activity. In contrast, fenfluramine significantly reduced the frequency of electrographic seizure events and their cumulative duration. Pretreatment with NE‐100 reduced the effects of E1R and fenfluramine in the kindling model. Surprisingly, pre‐exposure to NE‐100 in the intrahippocampal kainate model rather enhanced and prolonged fenfluramine's antiseizure effects.

Significance

In conclusion, the kindling data further support Sig1R as an interesting target for novel antiseizure medications. However, it is necessary to further explore the preclinical profile of E1R in chronic epilepsy models with spontaneous seizures. Despite the rather limited effects in the kindling paradigm, the findings from the intrahippocampal kainate model suggest that it is of interest to further assess a possible broad‐spectrum potential of fenfluramine.
Analysis of 206 whole‐genome resequencing reveals selection signatures associated with breed‐specific traits in Hu sheep
Authors: Zhao Fuping , Xie Rui , Fang Lingzhao , Xiang Ruidong , Yuan Zehu , Liu Yang , Wang Lixian
Published: June 2024

As an invaluable Chinese sheep germplasm resource, Hu sheep are renowned for their high fertility and beautiful wavy lambskins. Their distinctive characteristics have evolved over time through a combination of artificial and natural selection. Identifying selection signatures in Hu sheep can provide a straightforward insight into the mechanism of selection and further uncover the candidate genes associated with breed‐specific traits subject to selection. Here, we conducted whole‐genome resequencing on 206 Hu sheep individuals, each with an approximate 6‐fold depth of coverage. And then we employed three complementary approaches, including composite likelihood ratio, integrated haplotype homozygosity score and the detection of runs of homozygosity, to detect selection signatures. In total, 10 candidate genomic regions displaying selection signatures were simultaneously identified by multiple methods, spanning 88.54 Mb. After annotating, these genomic regions harbored collectively 92 unique genes. Interestingly, 32 candidate genes associated with reproduction were distributed in nine genomic regions detected. Out of them, two stood out as star candidates: BMPR1B and GNRH2, both of which have documented associations with fertility, and a HOXA gene cluster (HOXA1‐5, HOXA9, HOXA10, HOXA11 and HOXA13) had also been linked to fertility. Additionally, we identified other genes that are related to hair follicle development (LAMTOR3, EEF1A2), ear size (HOXA1, KCNQ2), fat tail formation (HOXA10, HOXA11), growth and development (FAF1, CCNDBP1, GJB2, GJA3), fat deposition (ACOXL, JAZF1, HOXA3, HOXA4, HOXA5, EBF4), immune (UBR1, FASTKD5) and feed intake (DAPP1, RNF17, NPBWR2). Our results offer novel insights into the genetic mechanisms underlying the selection of breed‐specific traits in Hu sheep and provide a reference for sheep genetic improvement programs.
Geopolinomic codes: Territorial and discursive practices of connectivity networks of political economy
Authors: Noorali Hassan
Published: June 2024

After the collapse of the Soviet Union in the 1990s, the global power structure entered a period of geopolitical transition. An evolved vision in the twenty‐first century shows the arrival of the geopolinomic order based on the combination of economic, political and territorial codes. Geopolinomic codes, in synergy with the global political economy, regulate the territorial and infrastructural arrangement of the world order in periods of geopolitical transition between hegemonic and emerging powers. Spatialization of power politics requires going through a set of geopolitical representations and this adds a thin discursive layer to the territorial hegemonic order. I argue that the development of geopolinomic codes allows for a more significant infusion of political economy through the centrality of territorial communication networks. A country with more manoeuvring power in adjusting geopolinomic codes and its triple levels can change the balance of global power structures in its favour.