bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Duration of Bismuth‐Containing Quadruple Therapy for Helicobacter pylori Eradication: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Duan Miao , Kong Qingzhou , Wang Hui , Li Yueyue
Published: October 2024

Background

The eradication of Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) is crucial due to its rising prevalence and increasing resistance. Bismuth‐containing quadruple therapies (BcQTs) have been proposed as a viable treatment option; however, the optimal duration for it remains contentious. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to compare the clinical efficacy of short‐term BcQT (defined as 7 or 10 days) with a standard 14‐day course.

Methods

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library was conducted for randomized controlled trials published in English until June 20, 2024. Eligibility criteria were applied to identify relevant studies. Summary risk ratios (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were calculated for the included studies regarding eradication rates, adverse effects, and compliance. This systematic review and meta‐analysis was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) statement and was previously registered in PROSPERO under registration number CRD42024547773.

Results

This meta‐analysis finally included 15 trials involving a total of 4505 patients. The eradication rates for short courses of BcQT were lower than those for the 14‐day course (RR 0.96, 95% CI 0.93–0.99). However, the eradication rate for the 10‐day therapy was comparable to that of the 14‐day therapy (RR 0.98, 95% CI 0.95–1.00). Subgroup analyses of antibiotic combinations indicated that tetracycline and metronidazole combinations yielded similar H. pylori eradication rates in the 7‐day versus the 14‐day BcQT (RR 0.93, 95% CI 0.84–1.02). In the potassium‐competitive acid blocker subgroup, the eradication rates remained similar across the 14‐day group and the short‐course treatment groups, whether evaluating the short‐term treatment groups as a whole or the 7‐ and 10‐day subgroups separately. Additionally, the adverse effects and compliance associated with the short course of BcQT were comparable to those of the 14‐day therapy.

Conclusion

A 10‐day course of BcQT may represent the optimal treatment duration. Nevertheless, the choice of antibiotic combination should be guided by the regional antibiotic resistance patterns of H. pylori, as combinations with lower resistance rates are more effective.

Trial Registration

PROSPERO number: CRD42024547773
‘So Let's Go On Like This?’—Shared Decision‐Making and the Use of Outcome Information in Routine Care Management for People With Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Damman Olga C. , Murugesu Laxsini , de Groot Vincent , de Jong Brigit A.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

This study aimed to investigate how shared decision‐making (SDM) and the use of different types of outcome information are applied in routine care management for people with multiple sclerosis (MS) in an academic outpatient clinic.

Methods

This qualitative study used the following: (a) observations of clinical encounters (N = 23) between patients and healthcare professionals (HCPs), (b) interviews with those patients (N = 17) and (c) interviews with those HCPs (N = 7). HCPs were not trained in SDM before the study. Audio recordings were transcribed literally. Transcriptions were analysed using qualitative thematic analysis.

Results

Outcome information was hardly discussed with patients, apart from clinical outcome information at an individual level, such as MRI or lab results. This use of clinical outcome information did not automatically lead to a process of SDM. HCPs tended to implicitly present choices to patients after signalling and discussing ‘problems’. In the interviews, patients indicated that they tended to consent to the advice given by HCPs and to prefer not too much change in treatment plans. However, they also emphasized the importance of being informed about available options with benefits and harms. We observed multiple discussions about patients' preferences, especially related to patients' experiences and priorities.

Conclusions

Overall, SDM and the use of different types of outcome information did not seem to be enacted in routine care management for people with MS, mostly because choices were not explicitly mentioned or discussed. However, discussions about patients' experiences and priorities did take place. Training HCPs further and developing patient information seem reasonable steps to proceed.

Patient or Public Contribution

People with MS contributed as research participants and provided us with their experiences in interviews. Furthermore, representatives of two patient organizations contributed to the study by reviewing the interview protocol for people with MS.
“English is important, but perfect English is not”: The disjuncture between the IELTS and language experiences from the perspectives of international students in Australia
Authors: Liu Xiaofan , Hamid M. Obaidul
Published: October 2024

This study employs an interpretive argument framework to explore the disjuncture between the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) and real‐life language practices, drawing on test‐takers' perceptions and lived language experiences in Australia. Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 17 participants from diverse national backgrounds and academic disciplines within Australian higher education. The research aimed to understand their perspectives on the extent to which IELTS scores can be extrapolated to the target language use domain, as well as the factors affecting this generalisation process. The study reveals evidence of “disconnect” between IELTS scores and real‐world language use from two key perspectives: the external reality of English as a lingua franca and the internal nature of standardised testing based on “native speaker” English, as perceived by test‐takers. The findings reveal complexities associated with integrating English into daily use and communication for test‐takers, raising concerns about the role of IELTS as a gatekeeper of university admission in Australia and other Inner Circle countries.
Application of yellow mustard gum‐fenugreek mixed gum in preparation of non‐dairy fat whipping cream
Authors: Liu Ruoyan , Wang Xinya , Goff H. Douglas , Cui Steve W.
Published: October 2024

Yellow mustard gum (YMG) and fenugreek gum (FG) are both natural hydrocolloids derived from plant seeds. They showed synergistic effects of increased viscosity upon mixing thus expanding their applications. In this study, a synergistic YMG‐FG (7:3) blend of different total gum concentrations (0%, 0.05%, 0.1%, 0.15%, 0.2% and 0.25%, w/w) was used to develop a whipping cream formula with dairy fat replaced by palm kernel oil. Whipping creams of both liquid emulsion and whipped cream were characterised in terms of particle size, rheological properties, whippability and foam stability, texture and microstructure. The liquid emulsion before whipping showed a shear‐thinning behaviour regardless of the gum concentration. Upon whipping, the overrun of whipped cream decreased while the foam stability increased with increasing gum mixture content. The whipped cream with the addition of gum mixture retained the shape after storing overnight at 22 °C in comparison with two collapsed commercial samples. The whipped cream with 0.1% gum mixture exhibited optimal foam stability and textural properties among all the samples. Overall, the synergistic blend of YMG‐FG can be used as a natural stabiliser in formulating non‐dairy fat whipping cream products to improve foam stability and airy/fluffy texture.
A Systematic Review and Narrative Synthesis of Strategies for Disaster Risk Reduction Education for People With Disabilities
Authors: Lee Sujin , Lee Haesun , Nam Hye Jin , Park Han Nah , Kim Bohye , Kang Gyeonga , Yoon Ju Young
Published: October 2024

Aims

To identify the components and characteristics of disaster risk reduction education for people with disabilities and to explore the contents and results of disaster risk reduction education.

Design

A systematic review and narrative synthesis.

Review Methods

The review was conducted in accordance with Tawfik's guidelines and followed the reporting standards outlined in the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta‐Analysis. The quality appraisal was guided by the mixed methods appraisal tool. The contents of each type of education were narratively synthesised.

Data Sources

The literature search was conducted in December 2023 using several electronic databases, including PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, Cochrane library and PsycINFO.

Results

Eight quantitative studies were selected for this study. Disaster risk reduction education for people with disabilities has focused mainly on fires and earthquakes, and drills were the most used teaching method. Some of the education was conducted by designating a 1:1 ratio of educators and participants or modifying the ratio according to the type of disability. The staff mainly conducted the education, and after education, the effect of disaster risk reduction education was confirmed in terms of the knowledge and response of people with disabilities during drills.

Conclusion

This review provides insights for developing disaster risk reduction education for people with disabilities. However, only a few randomised controlled trial (RCT) studies and quasi‐experimental studies have been conducted, and several studies have bias risks. Thus, practical, continuous, quality interventions are needed for effective disaster risk reduction education for people with disabilities.

Impact

This systematic review analysed the research trends of disaster risk reduction education for people with disabilities. The results provide the basis for quality evaluations of the operation, methods and achievements of educational programmes. Efforts are needed to promote collaboration between researcher and the practitioners to conduct further quality research.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution: Systematic review.
Physical Activity, Sedentary Behaviour, Sleep and Mental Wellbeing in Family Caregivers of Adults With Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities
Authors: Koch Laura C. , Lunsky Yona , St. John Laura
Published: October 2024

Background

Canadian 24‐h movement guidelines recommend that adults achieve 150 min per week of moderate‐to‐vigorous physical activity (MVPA), 7–9 h of sleep per night and spend no more than 8‐h per day sedentary to optimise health and wellbeing.

Method

Using a cross‐sectional survey of 131 family caregivers of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, we aimed to (a) determine whether adherence to these guidelines predicts mental wellbeing in family caregivers and (b) explore the relationship between movement behaviours of family caregivers and their loved ones.

Results

While MVPA was found to weakly predict wellbeing, sleep and sedentary behaviour did not. The movement behaviours of the family caregivers were not closely related to that of their loved ones.

Conclusions

Fostering physical activity is important to promote the wellbeing of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, as well as their family caregivers. Opportunities to be active together may be even more beneficial.
Association of impaired fasting glucose with cardiometabolic multimorbidity: The Kailuan study
Authors: Guo Zhihui , Wu Shouling , Zheng Mengyi , Xia Pengfei , Li Qiuyun , He Qing , Song Zhenqiang
Published: October 2024

Aims/Introduction

We investigated the association between impaired fasting glucose (IFG) and cardiometabolic multimorbidity (CMM) in the Chinese population.

Materials and Methods

We included 119,368 participants, free of diabetes mellitus and cardiovascular disease, who participated in the health examination (2006, 2008, 2010) of the Kailuan Study. According to World Health Organization diagnostic criteria, participants were divided into normal fasting blood glucose (FBG) (<6.1 mmol/L) and IFG (FBG 6.1–6.9 mmol/L) groups. CMM was defined as having two or more cardiometabolic diseases, including myocardial infarction, stroke and diabetes mellitus. We used Cox proportional hazards models to evaluate associations between IFG and CMM.

Results

During a median follow‐up period of 13.94 years, 2,432 CMM incident events occurred. After adjusting potential confounders, the hazard ratio (HR) and 95% confidence interval (CI) for CMM in the IFG group was 2.83 (95% CI 2.58–3.10) versus the normal FBG group. The HR of IFG for diabetes mellitus was 3.43 (95% CI 3.30–3.55), which was >1.25 (95% CI 1.13–1.37) for myocardial infarction, 1.16 (95% CI 1.07–1.25) for ischemic stroke and 1.06 (95% CI 0.88–1.27) for hemorrhagic stroke. Compared with normal FBG, HRs for risk of IFG for CMM were 2.73 (95% CI 2.48–3.02) in men and 3.86 (95% CI 2.92–5.09) in women.

Conclusion

IFG was a risk factor for CMM. The effect of IFG on diabetes mellitus was stronger than that on other cardiometabolic diseases. The effects of IFG for CMM differed by sex.
Which Whitening Mouthwash With Different Ingredients Is More Effective on Color and Bond Strength of Enamel?
Authors: Tekingur Elif Varli , Bedir Fatih , Karadas Muhammet , Erdem Rahime Zeynep
Published: October 2024

Objective

To examine the effects of six whitening mouthwashes on tooth color and immediate bond strength to the enamel.

Materials and Methods

Human incisors were divided into seven groups (n = 10) according to mouthwashes (R.O.C.S Black Edition White, Splat White Plus, Colgate Plax White Charcoal, Signal White Now, Listerine Advanced White, Colgate Optic White, and distilled water). After the initial color measurements, the teeth were exposed to mouthwash for 4 weeks. Then, the color measurements were repeated. Then, cylindrical composite resin blocks were immediately applied to the enamel surfaces and subjected to shear bond strength tests. Data were analyzed using Kruskal‐Wallis and Bonferroni tests (α = 0.05).

Results

Δ𝑏, Δ𝐿, and ΔE00 values did not present significant differences among the groups. Significant differences among the groups were determined for Δ𝑎 and ΔWID values (p < 0.05). R.O.C.S Black Edition White and Splat White Plus produced clinically acceptable color changes. Signal White Now, Splat White Plus, and Listerine Advanced White created acceptable whiteness changes. The mouthwashes did not statistically affect the bond strength compared to the distilled water (p > 0.05).

Conclusions

Whitening mouthwash containing blue covarine revealed more acceptable color and whitening changes. Mouthwash containing charcoal led to the lowest enamel bond strength values.

Clinical Significance

The content of whitening mouthwashes affected the degree of tooth whitening and shear bond strength to enamel.
Reallocation of the magnificent catshark Proscyllium magnificumLast & Vongpanich, 2004 to the genus CtenacisCompagno, 1973 (Carcharhiniformes: Proscylliidae)
Authors: White William T. , O'Neill Helen L. , Yang Lei , Naylor Gavin J. P.
Published: October 2024

The magnificent catshark Proscyllium magnificum was described in 2004 based off five specimens collected in the Andaman Sea off Myanmar. It was originally allocated to the genus Proscyllium, but recent molecular analyses suggested it was more closely related to the harlequin catshark Ctenacis fehlmanni from the western Indian Ocean. This study incorporated meristics and external and internal morphology, together with molecular data to reclassify the magnificent catshark as Ctenacis magnificum and provides revised diagnoses for the genera Ctenacis and Proscyllium. Ctenacis consists of two allopatric Indian Ocean species, while Proscyllium is monotypic genus confined to the northwest Pacific. The revised Ctenacis can be distinguished from Proscyllium in having a broader and longer head (head length 21%–23% vs. 16%–18% of total length), distance between pectoral and pelvic bases shorter than head length (vs. greater than head length), more teeth (upper jaw with 80–86 vs. 46–62 tooth files), and a complex colour pattern of dark reddish‐brown blotches and saddles (vs. colour pattern of small black spots). A revised key to the genera of proscylliids and species of Ctenacis is provided.
Equity Term Structures without Dividend Strips Data
Authors: GIGLIO STEFANO , KELLY BRYAN , KOZAK SERHIY
Published: October 2024

We use a large cross section of equity returns to estimate a rich affine model of equity prices, dividends, returns, and their dynamics. Our model prices dividend strips of the market and equity portfolios without using strips data in the estimation. Yet model‐implied equity yields closely match yields on traded strips. Our model extends equity term‐structure data over time (to the 1970s) and across maturities, and generates term structures for various equity portfolios. The novel cross section of term structures from our model covers 45 years and includes several recessions, providing a novel set of empirical moments to discipline asset pricing models.
Facilitating Marketization à contrecœur: Why Stakeholders May Continue to Support Organizations that Introduce Market Practices Violating their Values
Authors: Gruban Moritz , Feix Aurélien
Published: October 2024

Research on institutional logics provides ample evidence that market logic and its associated practices have spread across fields within capitalist societies – a phenomenon commonly called ‘marketization’. However, logics research has paid little attention to the individual‐level mental processes that facilitate marketization. Of particular interest are the processes that can lead a stakeholder who embraces a non‐market logic to continue to support an organization that introduces a new market practice (hereafter a ‘marketizer’), even though the stakeholder perceives this practice to violate values encoded in the non‐market logic she adheres to. Drawing on the legitimacy‐as‐perception perspective and insights from social psychology, we argue that four socio‐cognitive mechanisms increase the likelihood that the stakeholder will continue to support a marketizer: compensation, buffering, dependence, and adjustment. After illustrating our theory with the example of soccer fandom, we discuss its broader implications for the phenomenon of marketization. We argue that it would be misguided to assume that marketization can only proceed to the extent that it is deemed desirable by the majority of affected stakeholders. Based on this insight, we launch a reflection on actions that stakeholders can take to curb the spread of market practices that violate values that most of them hold.
Retrospective validation of automatic sleep analysis with grey areas model for human‐in‐the‐loop scoring approach
Authors: Rusanen Matias , Jouan Gabriel , Huttunen Riku , Nikkonen Sami , Sigurðardóttir Sigríður , Töyräs Juha , Duce Brett , Myllymaa Sami , Arnardottir Erna Sif , Leppänen Timo , Islind Anna Sigridur , Kainulainen Samu , Korkalainen Henri
Published: October 2024

State‐of‐the‐art automatic sleep staging methods have demonstrated comparable reliability and superior time efficiency to manual sleep staging. However, fully automatic black‐box solutions are difficult to adapt into clinical workflow due to the lack of transparency in decision‐making processes. Transparency would be crucial for interaction between automatic methods and the work of sleep experts, i.e., in human‐in‐the‐loop applications. To address these challenges, we propose an automatic sleep staging model (aSAGA) that effectively utilises both electroencephalography and electro‐oculography channels while incorporating transparency of uncertainty in the decision‐making process. We validated the model through extensive retrospective testing using a range of datasets, including open‐access, clinical, and research‐driven sources. Our channel‐wise ensemble model, trained on both electroencephalography and electro‐oculography signals, demonstrated robustness and the ability to generalise across various types of sleep recordings, including novel self‐applied home polysomnography. Additionally, we compared model uncertainty with human uncertainty in sleep staging and studied various uncertainty mapping metrics to identify ambiguous regions, or “grey areas”, that may require manual re‐evaluation. The validation of this grey area concept revealed its potential to enhance sleep staging accuracy and to highlight regions in the recordings where sleep experts may struggle to reach a consensus. In conclusion, this study provides a technical basis and understanding of automatic sleep staging uncertainty. Our approach has the potential to improve the integration of automatic sleep staging into clinical practice; however, further studies are needed to test the model prospectively in real‐world clinical settings and human‐in‐the‐loop scoring applications.
S&P 500 microstructure noise components: empirical inferences from futures and ETF prices
Authors: Taylor Stephen J.
Published: October 2024

By studying the differences between futures prices and exchange‐traded fund prices for the S&P 500 index, original results are obtained about the distribution and persistence of the microstructure noise component created by positive bid‐ask spreads and discrete price scales. The bivariate density of this component for futures and exchange‐traded fund prices is estimated from high‐frequency prices, to provide estimates of the marginal noise densities and measures of noise dependence across the markets studied. Properties of the residual microstructure noise, created by factors other than discrete prices, are also estimated. The residual component has more variation and less persistence than the discrete‐price component during the period examined, from January 2010 to December 2012.
Identification of circulating microbial DNA and its association with kidney function in patients with diabetic kidney disease
Authors: Linh Hoang Thuy , Oshima Megumi , Sako Keisuke , Konishi Masahiro , Hayashi Daiki , Sanada Hajime , Yuasa Takahiro , Koshino Akihiko , Horikoshi Keisuke , Minami Taichiro , Tsuge Shunsuke , Tamai Akira , Nakagawa Shiori , Nishioka Ryo , Zoshima Takeshi , Ito Kiyoaki , Mizushima Ichiro , Toyama Tadashi , Sakai Norihiko , Kitajima Shinji , Shimizu Miho , Wada Takashi , Iwata Yasunori
Published: October 2024

Aim

Recently, substantial studies have been accumulated to indicate the important role of gut microbiota in diabetic kidney disease (DKD). The abnormal change of bacterial‐derived products could imply specific injuries or play beneficial or harmful roles in DKD progression. In this study, we examined the presence and contribution of the Klebsiella oxytoca gene in the circulation of patients with DKD.

Method

We enrolled a total of 16 healthy participants, 17 patients with DKD, 5 patients with DKD requiring haemodialysis (HD), and 7 patients with CKD without diabetes. Bacterial‐derived DNA (16S rDNA and a specific K. oxytoca gene) in the blood was detected using droplet digital PCR, then investigated the relationship with clinical characteristics.

Results

We identified an increase in K. oxytoca genes in the blood of DKD patients. Interestingly, blood K. oxytoca copies and K. oxytoca/ 16S DNA ratio correlated with higher blood creatinine and BUN levels together with lower eGFR in DKD patients. K. oxytoca levels were also associated with higher neutrophil percentage, lower lymphocyte frequency, and increased neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio.

Conclusion

Collectively, the presence of the K. oxytoca gene in the circulation could serve as a biomarker reflecting reduced renal function in DKD patients.

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Empirical evidence and theoretical understanding of ecosystem carbon and nitrogen cycle interactions
Authors: Stocker Benjamin D. , Dong Ning , Perkowski Evan A. , Schneider Pascal D. , Xu Huiying , de Boer Hugo J. , Rebel Karin T. , Smith Nicholas G. , Van Sundert Kevin , Wang Han , Jones Sarah E. , Prentice I. Colin , Harrison Sandy P.
Published: October 2024

Interactions between carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycles in terrestrial ecosystems are simulated in advanced vegetation models, yet methodologies vary widely, leading to divergent simulations of past land C balance trends. This underscores the need to reassess our understanding of ecosystem processes, given recent theoretical advancements and empirical data. We review current knowledge, emphasising evidence from experiments and trait data compilations for vegetation responses to CO2 and N input, alongside theoretical and ecological principles for modelling. N fertilisation increases leaf N content but inconsistently enhances leaf‐level photosynthetic capacity. Whole‐plant responses include increased leaf area and biomass, with reduced root allocation and increased aboveground biomass. Elevated atmospheric CO2 also boosts leaf area and biomass but intensifies belowground allocation, depleting soil N and likely reducing N losses. Global leaf traits data confirm these findings, indicating that soil N availability influences leaf N content more than photosynthetic capacity. A demonstration model based on the functional balance hypothesis accurately predicts responses to N and CO2 fertilisation on tissue allocation, growth and biomass, offering a path to reduce uncertainty in global C cycle projections.
Efficacy of Clear Aligner Therapy for the Treatment of Anterior Open Bite in Adults: A Systematic Review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Correa Erika , Michelogiannakis Dimitrios , Barmak Abdul Basir , Rossouw Paul Emile , Javed Fawad
Published: October 2024

The objective of the present systematic review and meta‐analysis was to assess the effectiveness of clear aligner therapy (CAT) for the treatment of anterior open bite (AOB) in adults. The focused question was “Is CAT effective for the management of AOB in adults?”. Databases were searched without time and language barriers up to and including August 2024 based on pre‐specified eligibility criteria. Risk of Bias (RoB) assessment was performed using the Risk‐of‐Bias‐In‐Non‐randomised‐Studies‐of‐Intervention (ROBINS‐I) tool. Meta‐analyses were conducted using a random effects model (REM) for change in AOB and cephalometric measurements with an evaluation of the mean difference (MD) and/or standardised mean difference (SMD). The Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE) tool was used to assess the quality of evidence. Publication bias was assessed using Funnel plots and Egger's regression test. There were 14 studies included in the qualitative assessment and 12 in the meta‐analysis. The RoB was moderate in 13 studies and low in one. The meta‐analysis showed significant AOB correction with CAT [(MD) = 2.76 mm, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.23–3.28] due to maxillary and mandibular incisor extrusion (MD = 0.85 mm, CI: 0.43–1.26 and MD = 0.86 mm, CI: 0.29–1.44, respectively). There were no significant changes identified for maxillary and mandibular molar intrusion or changes in the mandibular plane angle (MPA). The level of confidence was high for AOB correction, incisor extrusion, and molar intrusion and low for MPA. CAT leads to a significant correction of AOB of approximately 2.76 mm, which can be mainly attributed to incisor extrusion.
Enhanced Safety and Efficacy of O‐Arm Navigation Over C‐Arm Guidance in Percutaneous Kyphoplasty for Patients With Osteoporotic Vertebral Compression Fractures and Spinal Deformity: A Comparative Study
Authors: Ji Zhong‐Wei , Shen Min‐Jie , Sun Jia‐Jia , Wang Jia‐Le , Deng Yong‐Kang , Zhang Yao , Wu Xie‐Xing , Chen Kang‐Wu , Mao Hai‐Qing
Published: October 2024

Objective

Although percutaneous kyphoplasty (PKP) under C‐arm guidance is an effective treatment for osteoporotic vertebral compression fractures (OVCF), obtaining high‐definition images in patients with OVCF and spinal deformities can be challenging or insufficient using traditional C‐arm guidance, prompting our institution to adopt the O‐arm navigation system—which offers comprehensive 3D imaging and precise navigation—and this study compares its safety and efficacy with conventional C‐arm‐assisted PKP.

Methods

This was a retrospective study. From February 2019 to February 2022, we enrolled 28 patients with OVCF (44 vertebrae) with spinal deformity treated with O‐arm navigation‐assisted PKP and 30 patients with OVCF (42 vertebrae) with spinal deformity treated with C‐arm‐guided PKP. We recorded puncture times, single‐segment operation time, number of cases with bone cement leakage, and length of stay. The visual analog scales (VASs), Oswestry disability indexes (ODIs), recovery of Cobbs angle, and vertebral height were used to assess treatment effect before the operation, on the first day postoperation, the first month postoperation, and at the final follow‐up. The chi‐squared test was utilized for comparing discrete variables, an independent samples t‐test was used for continuous variables, and Pearson's chi‐squared test and Fisher's exact test were applied for categorical data.

Results

Demographic features were comparable between the groups. The O‐arm navigation group showed a significant reduction in puncture adjustment per vertebrae, single‐segment operation time, and the rate of trocar needle malposition compared to the C‐arm guidance group. The rate of cement leakage was decreased in the O‐arm‐guided PKP group, and other complications did not differ between the two groups. Intragroup comparisons revealed significant improvements in VAS scores and ODI on the first day, first month, and final follow‐up after the operation (p < 0.05). The VAS score was significantly lower in the O‐arm navigation‐assisted PKP group than in the C‐arm‐guided PKP group on the first day postoperatively (p = 0.049). However, no significant differences in VAS scores were observed between the groups at the first month postoperatively or at the final follow‐up. In each follow‐up period, there was no significant difference in ODI, Cobb angle, and the percent of anterior vertebral height (AVH %) between the groups.

Conclusion

O‐arm navigation‐assisted PKP demonstrates better clinical safety and efficacy than C‐arm‐guided PKP, marking it as a minimally invasive, safe, and effective procedure for treating patients with OVCF with spinal deformity.
Maize DLR1/NHX7 Is Required for Root Development Under Potassium Deficiency
Authors: Guo Kang , Li Daojun , Li Yan , Wang Xiaoqing , Wang Chunfei , Zhu Yanbin , Wu Chengyun , Hu Zhubing
Published: October 2024

Root System Architecture (RSA) is a crucial plant trait that governs a plant's ability to absorb water and nutrients. In this study, we describe a mutant with nutrient‐dependent defects in root development, affecting both the primary root and lateral roots (LRs). This mutant, identified through a screen for defects in LR development, has been designated dlr1‐1. The dlr1‐1 mutant exhibits impaired LR emergence rather than defects in the LR primordium (LRP) formation, particularly under potassium (K+)‐deprivation conditions. This impairment likely stems from inhibited cell proliferation caused by the dlr1‐1 mutation. K+ deprivation specifically leads to the accumulation of salicylic acid (SA) in the dlr1‐1 mutant, consistent with the upregulation of SA biosynthesis genes. Moreover, exogenous application of SA to wild‐type plants (B73) mimics the dlr1‐1 phenotype. Conversely, treatment of the dlr1‐1 mutant with 2‐aminoindane‐2‐phosphonic acid, an SA biosynthesis inhibitor, partially restores LR emergence, indicating that elevated SA levels may be responsible for the mutant's developmental defects. MutMap analysis and allelism tests confirmed that the phenotypes of the dlr1‐1 mutant results from the loss of the Na+/H+ antiporter, ZmNHX7. Additionally, the application of NaCl exacerbates the dlr1‐1 mutant phenotype, suggesting that the root defects in dlr1‐1 mutant depend on ion homoeostasis. In conclusion, our findings demonstrate that maize DLR1/NHX7 is essential for root development under potassium deprivation.
Acceptance‐Based or Teaching‐Based Rule Consequentialism?
Authors: Sauchelli Andrea
Published: October 2024

Is an action obligatory if and only if it is prescribed by a code that is the best to be taught to the next generation? This paper discusses whether this version of rule consequentialism is superior to acceptance‐based formulations in some relevant respects. Ultimately, I conclude that, given certain requirements rule consequentialism should ideally meet, teaching‐based formulations are no better than acceptance‐based ones.
Catheter Exchange With Elongation of Tunnel (CEET) Procedure—A Novel Technique for Cuff Extrusion of Tunneled Dialysis Catheter: Surgical Experience and Early Outcomes
Authors: Behera Vineet , Mehta Hemant , Vishwanath C. S. , Balasubramaniam J. , Shanmugraj G. , Ananthakrishnan R. , Hande Vivek
Published: October 2024

Background

Cuff extrusion of tunneled dialysis catheter (TDC) leads to catheter dysfunction, leading to loss of vascular access and the need for new catheter. Definitive management is to remove TDC and reinsert new catheter by new venous puncture and tunnel, which may not be possible in all cases. The study evaluated the surgical experience and early outcomes of a novel “Catheter Exchange with Elongation of Tunnel (CEET)” procedure for cuff extrusion.

Methods

The retrospective study included all cases of hemodialysis with TDC with partial or complete cuff extrusion and excluded complete catheter dislodgement, tunnel infection, or any catheter related infection. All patients also underwent the CEET procedure under fluoroscopy guidance, and the clinical details and outcomes were analyzed.

Results

Eleven cases of TDC cuff extrusion underwent the CEET procedure of which three (27.2%) had previous and four (36.4%) had partial cuff extrusion, and seven cases (63.6%) had short tunnel length, which likely predisposed to cuff extrusion. CEET procedure was successful in 10 cases (success rate 90.1%) with desired position of catheter tip and good blood flow. Study population was divided into early and late cuff extrusion (≥1 month). Short tunnel length was associated with late extrusion (p = 0.05), whereas premature removal of TDC anchor sutures was associated with early cuff extrusion (p = 0.04).

Conclusion

CEET procedure is a successful alternative technique for correction of cuff extrusion of TDC with good success rate. Premature removal of anchor sutures was associated with early cuff extrusion, whereas short tunnel length was associated with late cuff extrusion.
Influence of the Vertek aiming device on the surgical accuracy of computer‐assisted drilling of the equine distal sesamoid bone—An experimental cadaveric study
Authors: de Preux Mathieu , Precht Christina , Travaglini Andrea T. , Propadalo Ljubo M. , Farra Dima , Vidondo Beatriz , Easley Jeremiah T. , Koch Christoph
Published: October 2024

Objective

To determine the effect of the Vertek aiming device (VAD) on the surgical accuracy of navigated drilling of the distal sesamoid bone (DSB).

Study design

Experimental cadaveric study.

Sample population

A total of 30 paired equine cadaveric limbs from 15 horses.

Methods

Each specimen was placed in a purpose‐built frame (PBF). Preoperative cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images were acquired with an imaging unit coupled with a surgical navigation system. In the DSB of each specimen, a 4.5 mm glide hole and a 3.2 mm thread hole were drilled under navigation guidance, to simulate drilling for the repair of a mid‐sagittal DSB fracture. In the VAD group navigated drilling was assisted by using the VAD. In the free‐hand drilling group navigated drilling was performed without the VAD. Pre‐and postoperative CBCT scans were merged and surgical accuracy aberrations (SAA) between the planned drill corridor and the created bone tunnel were measured. Descriptive statistics and repeated‐measures analyses of variance (rep.‐meas. ANOVA) were performed to compare SAA measurements between the study groups.

Results

The SAA measurements ranged from 0 to 2.9 mm in the free‐hand group and from 0 to 2.8 mm in the VAD group. The median overall SAA was lower in the VAD group than in the free‐hand navigated group (0.6 mm ± [0.5–0.7] vs. 0.8 mm ± [0.7–1], rep.‐meas. ANOVA p = .007).

Conclusion

The additional use of the VAD in the described set‐up for navigated drilling significantly improved surgical accuracy.

Clinical significance

The combined use of the VAD and PBF may help improve surgical accuracy in navigated lag screw repair of DSB fractures.
Una revisión crítica de la ética judicial: más allá de la retórica
Authors: Restrepo Ramírez Alexander
Published: October 2024

Este artículo plantea la necesidad de revisar la noción de ética judicial en el sentido de que, mientras la ética en general tiene una raíz eminentemente filosófica, en la actualidad parece como si se pretendiera minimizar tal influencia con el fin de dotar a las denominadas éticas aplicadas de mayor rigor y pragmatismo al ser explicadas por quienes tienen la responsabilidad de aplicarla. Se parte de una reflexión en torno al lugar de la ética dentro de la ética judicial. Para ello, se analiza un caso concreto de faltas graves a la ética judicial en Colombia, lo que demuestra que, más allá de la retórica formativa en torno a la ética judicial, cumplirla implica una perspectiva desde la objetividad epistémica. Se concluye que las consideraciones formativas y funcionales en torno a la ética judicial deben comprometer su abordaje más allá de las generalidades en que suele caer tal discusión.
Fenomenología de los sueños en diálogo con Aristóteles
Authors: Pulido Blanco Jorge Enrique
Published: October 2024

El mundo del ensueño y el mundo de la vigilia raras veces se oponen o se excluyen de manera tajante; más bien, una de las características de tal relación es la posibilidad de una inminente irrupción de uno en el otro. La tesis general de este artículo es que la tradición filosófica de Aristóteles a Husserl no cuenta con una orientación para acceder al fenómeno de los sueños que no privilegie la vigilia. Esta dificultad está detrás de una serie de problemas y paradojas que se pueden explicitar ejemplarmente mediante una aproximación a la teoría aristotélica sobre el dormir (hýpnon) y el soñar (enýpnion), en los tres tratados dedicados al tema en Parva naturalia. La tematización aristotélica es analizada y criticada de cara a una posible fenomenología de los sueños, de la cual ya hay algunos vestigios en Husserl y Heidegger, pero que se desarrolló sistemáticamente en Fink. El artículo propone que al reelaborar las “piezas faltantes” del acercamiento aristotélico, así como la prioridad que la primera persona tiene en la fenomenología, sería posible abrir una vía de exploración que lleve a pensar el sueño en la realidad de su efectuación concreta. Este enfoque permite evidenciar tres requerimientos fundamentales para pensar la fenomenalización del ensueño, a saber: el entrecruzarse de los mundos de la vigilia y del ensueño, la maximización y la móvil ordenación de las sensaciones durante el sueño y, finalmente, el afloramiento del reino afectivo. Estos tres fondos problemáticos ponen sobre la mesa la pregunta por los límites de la manifestación (de los ensueños) y, en ese sentido, abren un posible diálogo con la fenomenología francesa contemporánea.
Infinito verdadero e infinito malo. Hegel y la filosofía de la reflexión alemana
Authors: Tamayo Guerrero Nicolás , Moreno Mancipe Diego Fernando
Published: October 2024

En este artículo se analizan los conceptos hegelianos de infinito malo e infinito verdadero al hilo de una revisión de la noción de infinitud en la tradición filosófica alemana con la que discute. Puntualmente, abordaremos las formulaciones sobre la relación finitud-infinitud en la obra de Kant, Fichte y Schlegel antes de exponer la interpretación que hace Hegel de la manera en la que la filosofía trascendental y el romanticismo alemán se aproximaron a este asunto. Finalmente, presentamos la verdadera forma en la que, según Hegel, hay que entender lo infinito.
Optimal Periodic Impulsive Control for Orbital Stabilization of Underactuated Systems
Authors: Kant Nilay , Zhu Guoming , Mukherjee Ranjan
Published: October 2024

The orbital stabilization problem for underactuated systems with a single passive degree-of-freedom is revisited. The impulse controlled Poincaré map (ICPM) approach, in which stabilizing impulsive inputs are applied on a Poincaré section, has distinct advantages over existing methods but feedback compensation once every oscillation limits the rate of convergence to the desired orbit. To overcome these limitations, we propose stabilization through application of multiple impulsive inputs during each oscillation. An optimal control problem is formulated to minimize a quadratic cost functional and the optimal inputs are obtained by solving a discrete periodic Riccati equation. Simulation results for a Pendubot are presented, highlighting the advantages of the control design over the ICPM method in terms of convergence rate and robustness to parameter uncertainty.
Soft hydrogel semiconductors with augmented biointeractive functions
Authors: Dai Yahao , Wai Shinya , Li Pengju , Shan Naisong , Cao Zhiqiang , Li Yang , Wang Yunfei , Liu Youdi , Liu Wei , Tang Kan , Liu Yuzi , Hua Muchuan , Li Songsong , Li Nan , Chatterji Shivani , Fry H. Christopher , Lee Sean , Zhang Cheng , Weires Max , Sutyak Sean , Shi Jiuyun , Zhu Chenhui , Xu Jie , Gu Xiaodan , Tian Bozhi , Wang Sihong
Published: October 2024

Hydrogels, known for their mechanical and chemical similarity to biological tissues, are widely used in biotechnologies, whereas semiconductors provide advanced electronic and optoelectronic functionalities such as signal amplification, sensing, and photomodulation. Combining semiconducting properties with hydrogel designs can enhance biointeractive functions and intimacy at biointerfaces, but this is challenging owing to the low hydrophilicity of polymer semiconductors. We developed a solvent affinity–induced assembly method that incorporates water-insoluble polymer semiconductors into double-network hydrogels. These semiconductors exhibited tissue-level moduli as soft as 81 kilopascals, stretchability of 150% strain, and charge-carrier mobility up to 1.4 square centimeters per volt per second. When they are interfaced with biological tissues, their tissue-level modulus enables alleviated immune reactions. The hydrogel’s high porosity enhances molecular interactions at semiconductor-biofluid interfaces, resulting in photomodulation with higher response and volumetric biosensing with higher sensitivity.
Achieving “nature positive” requires net gain legislation
Authors: Thomas Hannah , Chung Yi Fei , Maron Martine , Rhodes Jonathan R. , Simmonds Jeremy S. , Ward Michelle S. , Williams Brooke A.
Published: October 2024

Reforms underway in Australia highlight key challenges
Spreading the word
Writing from Invention to Decipherment
Edited by Silvia Ferrara, Barbara Montecchi, and Miguel Valério
Oxford University Press, 2024. 352 pp.
Authors: Robinson Andrew
Published: October 2024

Scholars probe the origins and decipherment of written communication
Remote highland city upends ideas of urbanism
Authors: Lawler Andrew
Published: October 2024

Drones and lidar uncover high-altitude Uzbek site, part of the medieval Silk Road trade
The extracellular segment of CroS is not required for sensing but fine-tunes the magnitude of CroS signaling to regulate cephalosporin resistance in
Enterococcus faecalis
Authors: Timmler Sarah B. , Kristich Christopher J.
Published: October 2024

Enterococci are Gram-positive bacteria that colonize the gastrointestinal tract. Clinically relevant enterococci are intrinsically resistant to antibiotics in the cephalosporin family, and prior therapy with cephalosporins is a major risk factor for the acquisition of an enterococcal infection. One important determinant of intrinsic cephalosporin resistance in enterococci is the two-component signal transduction system CroS/R. The CroS sensor kinase senses cephalosporin-induced cell wall stress to become activated and phosphorylates its cognate response regulator CroR, thereby enhancing CroR-dependent gene expression to drive cephalosporin resistance. CroS possesses a short (~30 amino acids) extracellular segment between its two transmembrane domains near the N-terminus, but whether this extracellular segment is important for sensing cephalosporin stress, or possesses any other function, has remained unknown. Here, we explored the role of the CroS extracellular segment through mutagenesis and functional studies. We found that mutations in the CroS extracellular segment biased CroS to adopt a more active state during ceftriaxone stress, which led to an increase in CroR-dependent gene expression and hyper-resistance to ceftriaxone. Importantly, these mutants still responded to ceftriaxone-mediated stress by enhancing CroS activity, indicating that the extracellular segment of CroS does not directly bind a regulatory ligand. Overall, our results suggest that although the extracellular segment of CroS does not directly bind a regulatory ligand, it can modulate the magnitude of CroS signaling for phosphorylation of CroR to regulate cephalosporin resistance through the resulting changes in CroR-dependent gene expression.

IMPORTANCE

Clinically relevant enterococci are intrinsically resistant to antibiotics in the cephalosporin family. The CroS sensor kinase senses cephalosporin-induced cell wall stress to trigger signaling that drives cephalosporin resistance, but the mechanism by which CroS senses stress is unknown. We report the first functional characterization of the CroS extracellular segment, revealing that mutations in the extracellular segment did not prevent CroS from responding to cell wall stress but instead biased CroS to adopt a more active state during cephalosporin stress that led to an increase in CroR-dependent gene expression and hyper-resistance to ceftriaxone. Overall, our results suggest that the extracellular segment of CroS does not directly bind to a regulatory ligand but that it can modulate the magnitude of CroS signaling.