bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Kardiovaskuläre Komorbidität bei Psoriasis – Entzündung in Psoriasis betrifft nicht nur die Haut
Authors: Kommoss Katharina S. , Enk Alexander , Heikenwälder Mathias , Waisman Ari , Karbach Susanne , Wild Johannes
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund

Die Entzündung im Rahmen von Psoriasis gilt über die dermatologische Manifestation hinaus als systemisch. Nationale und internationale dermatologische Leitlinien für die Behandlung von Psoriasis‐Patienten empfehlen die Behandlung möglicher Begleitkrankheiten (Komorbidität), einschließlich psychischer, metabolischer und kardiovaskulärer Erkrankungen. Umgekehrt wird Psoriasis in der kardiologischen Fachwelt als neuer Risikofaktor für kardiovaskuläre Entzündungen anerkannt.

Methodik

Eine Literaturübersicht wurde durchgeführt. Die wichtigsten Punkte in Bezug auf epidemiologische, mechanistische und Management‐Aspekte wurden zusammengefasst und in einen Kontext für Ärzte gestellt, die Psoriasis‐Patienten behandeln.

Ergebnisse

Derzeit werden Anstrengungen unternommen, die mechanistischen Grundlagen der systemischen Entzündung bei der psoriatischen Entzündung besser zu verstehen. Studien, die darauf abzielen, mit etablierten systemischen dermatologischen Therapien „zwei Fliegen mit einer Klappe“ hinsichtlich der kardiovaskulären Komorbidität bei Psoriasis‐Patienten zu schlagen, haben bisher heterogene Daten geliefert. Aus der Diagnose Psoriasis ergeben sich für den einzelnen Patienten präventive und therapeutische Konsequenzen hinsichtlich der Begleiterkrankungen.

Schlussfolgerungen

Das Wissen um die Komorbidität bei Psoriasis erfordert eine ausgeprägte interdisziplinäre Betreuung der Psoriasis‐Patienten, zu der in diesem Artikel Aspekte der vaskulären Entzündung und der kardiovaskulären Erkrankungen aufgezeigt werden.
Therapie pathologischer Narben
Authors: Riedemann Helena Isabell , Schmidt Morna F. , Baron Jens Malte
Published: July 2023

Eine Narbe entsteht nach Auftreten eines tiefen Gewebedefekts im Rahmen des physiologischen Wundheilungsprozesses. Der initialen Entzündungsreaktion folgt eine Proliferation von Bindegewebszellen, die eine Fibrose als definitiven Gewebeersatz ausbilden. Störungen können in allen Stadien des Prozesses auftreten und äußern sich hauptsächlich in Wundheilungsstörungen oder der Ausbildung atropher und hypertropher Narben beziehungsweise Keloiden. Schwerpunkt dieses Artikels ist die Therapie pathologischer Narben, die unter anderem wegen funktioneller Einschränkungen, Beschwerden und Stigmatisierung eine Therapieindikation darstellen. Dabei werden konservativ‐medikamentöse, physikalische sowie chirurgische und lasertherapeutische Ansätze verfolgt. Grundlage ist das Verständnis pathophysiologischer Mechanismen und Einflussfaktoren zur Therapiewahl sowie ein interdisziplinärer und interprofessioneller Therapieansatz.
Prädiktive Faktoren für Anti‐MDA5‐Antikörper bei Patienten mit Dermatomyositis: eine retrospektive multizentrische Studie
Authors: Castellanos‐Gonzalez María , Bris Beatriz Butrón , Marsol Isabel Bielsa , Campos Mónica Munera , Ruiz‐Villaverde Ricardo , Llorente Concha Postigo , Nuno‐Gonzalez Almudena , Sánchez Jesús Tercedor , Mur Eva Chavarría , García Rosa Giménez , Alonso Ana Bauza , Español Gloria Aparicio , García Yolanda Hidalgo , Schmidt Júlia María Sánchez , Sánchez Manuel Almagro , Crespo Esther Roé , Alonso Elena de Las Heras , Gallo‐Pineda Gonzalo , Izquierdo Jose Antonio Avilés , Varillas‐Delgado David
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund und Studienziel

Antikörper gegen das Melanom‐Differenzierungsantigen 5 (Anti‐MDA5‐Antikörper) sind bei Patienten mit Dermatomyositis mit rasch fortschreitender interstitieller Lungenerkrankung und schlechter Prognose assoziiert. Eine frühe Diagnose ist essentiell, um die Prognose dieser Patienten zu verbessern. Das Ziel unserer Studie war es, typische Hautbefunde bei Patienten mit Anti‐MDA5‐positiver Dermatomyositis zu verifizieren sowie neue diagnostische Marker für das Vorhandensein von Anti‐MDA5‐Antikörpern (Anti‐MDA5+) zu untersuchen.

Patienten und Methoden

Es handelt sich um eine retrospektive multizentrische Querschnitts‐Kohortenstudie. 124 Patienten mit der Diagnose „Dermatomyositis“ nahmen an der Studie teil; 37 von ihnen hatten Anti‐MDA5‐Antikörper (Anti‐MDA5+). Demographische Daten, Laborbefunde sowie klinische Befunde wurden dokumentiert.

Ergebnisse

Die Anti‐MDA5‐positive Dermatomyositis ist charakterisiert durch einen typischen mukokutanen Phänotyp mit oralen Läsionen, Alopezie, „Mechanikerhänden“, Papeln auf Handflächen und Handrücken, Palmarerythem, Vaskulopathie und Hautulzerationen. Vaskulopathie und Beteiligung der Fingerspitzen waren in unserer Klientel von Anti‐MDA5+‐Patienten besonders häufig zu finden (p <0.001), so dass diese Befunde als diagnostischer Marker für das Vorhandensein der Anti‐MDA5‐Antikörper gelten können (OR 12.355; 95% KI 2,850–79,263; p  =  0,012 beziehungsweise OR  7.447; 95% KI  2,103–46,718; p  =  0,004). Ulzera sind als Marker für Anti‐MDA5+ besonders zu erwähnen; in unserer Kohorte hatten bis zu 97% der Patienten mit Anti‐MDA5‐Antikörpern Ulzera.

Schlussfolgerungen

Patienten mit Verdacht auf Dermatomyositis, die eine Beteiligung der Fingerspitzen oder eine Vaskulopathie aufweisen, sollten auf Anti‐MDA5‐Antikörper untersucht werden, da diese klinischen Befunde prädiktiv für das Vorhandensein der entsprechenden Antikörper sein können.
Prädiktoren für selbstberichtete sexuell übertragbare Infektionen bei türkischen Universitätsstudenten
Authors: Gülsoy Seçil Seymenler , Siyez Ender , Esen Erol , Baran Bahar , Siyez Diğdem Müge
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund und Ziel

Sexuell übertragbare Infektionen (STIs) gehören zu den wichtigsten Gesundheitsproblemen, mit denen sexuell aktive Universitätsstudenten in Berührung kommen können. Diese Studie hat das Ziel die Prädiktoren für selbstberichtete STIs bei Universitätsstudenten zu identifizieren.

Methoden

Studienteilnehmer waren 2.241 Personen, die in einer Kohorte von 9.693 befragten Studenten aus 21 türkischen Universitäten angaben, Geschlechtsverkehr gehabt zu haben. Die Teilnehmer waren zwischen 17 und 28 Jahre alt.

Ergebnisse

Laut CHAID‐Analyse (Chi‐Square Automatic Interaction Detection) war das Geschlecht der hauptsächliche Prädiktor für selbstberichtete STIs. Außerdem wurden die Anzahl der Partner und Drogenkonsum als Vorhersagevariablen bei Männern identifiziert. Abschließend wurde für das CHAID‐Modell eine Klassifikationsgenauigkeit innerhalb der Stichprobe von 95,3 % festgestellt.

Schlussfolgerungen

Die vorliegenden Ergebnisse beleuchten die Risikofaktoren für die Erkrankung an STIs und legen mögliche Richtungen zur Abstimmung zukünftiger Präventionsmaßnahmen nahe.
Efficacy and safety of inhibiting the NLRP3/IL‐1β/IL‐6 pathway in patients with ST‐elevation myocardial infarction: A meta‐analysis
Authors: He Fang , Xie Tian , Ni Dong , Tang Tingting , Cheng Xiang
Published: July 2023

Background

The NLRP3/IL‐1β/IL‐6 pathway plays a key role in mediating inflammatory responses after ST‐elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI). However, the clinical benefits of inhibiting this pathway in STEMI are uncertain. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of inhibiting the NLRP3/IL‐1β/IL‐6 pathway in STEMI patients.

Methods

This study followed PRISMA guidelines. PubMed, Embase, CENTRAL and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of inhibiting the NLRP3/IL‐1β/IL‐6 pathway in STEMI patients within 7 days of symptom onset. The efficacy outcomes included all‐cause death, cardiovascular death, recurrent MI, new‐onset or worsening heart failure (HF) and stroke. The safety outcomes were serious infection, gastrointestinal adverse events and injection site reactions.

Results

Of 316 screened records, nine trials with 1211 patients were included in the meta‐analysis. Colchicine reduced the risk of recurrent MI (RR 0.28, 95% CI 0.10–0.74; I2 = 0.0%). Anakinra was associated with reduced risk of new‐onset or worsening HF (RR 0.32, 95% CI 0.13–0.77; I2 = 0.0%) and decreased C‐reactive protein levels (SMD −1.34, 95% CI −2.04 to −0.65; I2 = 0.0%). Colchicine and anakinra increased the risk of gastrointestinal adverse events (RR 4.43, 95% CI 2.75–7.13; I2 = 38.1%) and injection site reactions (RR 4.52, 95% CI 1.32–15.49; I2 = 0.8%), respectively. None of the three medications affected the risks of all‐cause death, cardiovascular death, stroke and serious infection.

Conclusions

There is still no large‐scale RCT evidence on the efficacy and safety of inhibiting the NLRP3/IL‐1β/IL‐6 pathway for the treatment of STEMI. Preliminary results from the available RCTs suggest colchicine and anakinra may respectively reduce the risks of recurrent MI and new‐onset or worsening HF. The available RCTs in this meta‐analysis lack power to determine any differences on mortality.
Pollinator competition and the structure of floral resources
Authors: Sponsler Douglas , Iverson Aaron , Steffan‐Dewenter Ingolf
Published: July 2023

The mutualism between plants and pollinators is built upon the trophic ecology of flowers and florivores. Yet the ecology of flowers‐as‐food is left implicit in most studies of plant–pollinator ecology, and it has been largely neglected in mainstream trophic ecology. This deficit is especially evident in an emerging issue of basic and applied significance: competition between pollinators for floral resources. In this synthesis, we start by exploring the notion of floral resource limitation upon which most studies concerning competition between pollinators are tacitly predicated. Both theoretical and empirical lines of evidence indicate that floral resource limitation must be understood as a complex ecological contingency; the question is not simply whether but when, where and in what regions of floral trait space resources are limiting. Based on this premise, we propose a framework for understanding floral resource availability in terms of temporal, spatial and functional structure. While this framework is conceptually intuitive, it is empirically and analytically demanding. We review existing methods for measuring and summarizing the multi‐dimensional structure of floral resources, highlight their strengths and weaknesses, and identify opportunities for future methods development. We then discuss the causal relationships linking floral resource structure to species coexistence, plant–pollinator community dynamics, and exogenous drivers like climate, land use, and episodic disturbances. In its role as both cause and effect, floral resource structure mediates the relationship between behavioral ecology, landscape ecology, and coexistence theory with respect to flowers and florivores. Establishing floral resource structure as an object of study and application will both shed light on basic questions of coexistence and guide management decisions concerning contentious issues such as the compatibility of apiculture with wild pollinator conservation and the appropriate use of floral enhancements in agri‐environment schemes.
Precipitation gradients drive high tree species turnover in the woodlands of eastern and southern Africa
Authors: Davies Robert W. , Ryan Casey M. , Harrison Rhett D. , Dexter Kyle G. , Ahrends Antje , te Beest Mariska , Benitez Lorena , Brade Thom K. , Carreiras Joao M. B. , Druce Dave J. , Fayolle Adeline , Finckh Manfred , Godlee John L. , Gonclaves Francisco M. , Grundy Isla M. , Hoche T. , Holdo Ricardo M. , Makungwa Steve , McNicol Iain M. , Mograbi Penelope J. , Muchawona Anderson , Muhate Aristidies , Muledi Jonathan , Pritchard Rose , Revermann Rasmus , Ribeiro Natasha S. , Siampale Abel , Carla Staver A. , Syampungani Stephen , Williams Mathew , Swemmer Anthony M. , Edwards David P.
Published: July 2023

Savannas cover one‐fifth of the Earth's surface, harbour substantial biodiversity, and provide a broad range of ecosystem services to hundreds of millions of people. The community composition of trees in tropical moist forests varies with climate, but whether the same processes structure communities in disturbance‐driven savannas remains relatively unknown. We investigate how biodiversity is structured over large environmental and disturbance gradients in woodlands of eastern and southern Africa. We use tree inventory data from the Socio‐Ecological Observatory for Studying African Woodlands (SEOSAW) network, covering 755 ha in a total of 6780 plots across nine countries of eastern and southern Africa, to investigate how alpha, beta, and phylogenetic diversity varies across environmental and disturbance gradients. We find strong climate‐richness patterns, with precipitation playing a primary role in determining patterns of tree richness and high turnover across these savannas. Savannas with greater rainfall contain more tree species, suggesting that low water availability places distributional limits on species, creating the observed climate‐richness patterns. Both fire and herbivory have minimal effects on tree diversity, despite their role in determining savanna distribution and structure. High turnover of tree species, genera, and families is similar to turnover in seasonally dry tropical forests of the Americas, suggesting this is a feature of semiarid tree floras. The greater richness and phylogenetic diversity of wetter plots shows that broad‐scale ecological patterns apply to disturbance‐driven savanna systems. High taxonomic turnover suggests that savannas from across the regional rainfall gradient should be protected if we are to maximise the conservation of unique tree communities.
Fine‐scale population structure of the northern hard clam (Mercenaria mercenaria) revealed by genome‐wide SNP markers
Authors: Ropp Ann J. , Reece Kimberly S. , Snyder Richard A. , Song Jingwei , Biesack Ellen E. , McDowell Jan R.
Published: July 2023

Aquaculture is growing rapidly worldwide, and sustainability is dependent on an understanding of current genetic variation and levels of connectivity among populations. Genetic data are essential to mitigate the genetic and ecological impacts of aquaculture on wild populations and guard against unintended human‐induced loss of intraspecific diversity in aquacultured lines. Impacts of disregarding genetics can include loss of diversity within and between populations and disruption of local adaptation patterns, which can lead to a decrease in fitness. The northern hard clam, Mercenaria mercenaria (Linnaeus, 1758), is an economically valuable aquaculture species along the North American Atlantic and Gulf coasts. Hard clams have a pelagic larval phase that allows for dispersal, but the level of genetic connectivity among geographic areas is not well understood. To better inform the establishment of site‐appropriate aquaculture brood stocks, this study used DArTseq™ genotyping by sequencing to characterize the genetic stock structure of wild clams sampled along the east coast of North America and document genetic diversity within populations. Samples were collected from 15 locations from Prince Edward Island, Canada, to South Carolina, USA. Stringent data filtering resulted in 4960 single nucleotide polymorphisms from 448 individuals. Five genetic breaks separating six genetically distinct populations were identified: Canada, Maine, Massachusetts, Mid‐Atlantic, Chesapeake Bay, and the Carolinas (FST 0.003–0.046; p < 0.0001). This is the first study to assess population genetic structure of this economically important hard clam along a large portion of its native range with high‐resolution genomic markers, enabling identification of previously unrecognized population structure. Results of this study not only broaden insight into the factors shaping the current distribution of M. mercenaria but also reveal the genetic population dynamics of a species with a long pelagic larval dispersal period along the North American Atlantic and Gulf coasts.
Modelling the distinct roles of epithelial and stromal androgen receptor in the regulation of prostate epithelial dynamics
Authors: Woodman Isabel L.
Published: July 2023

The prostate is an androgen‐responsive organ, but the complex cellular and molecular interactions that mediate these responses remain incompletely defined. Here, I synthesise the existing literature to derive a simple conceptual framework describing the androgen‐dependent regulation of prostate epithelial dynamics. In this framework, epithelial androgen receptor (AR) cell‐autonomously controls luminal cell height, whereas stromal AR regulates the synthesis of growth factors that promote luminal cell survival and proliferation. With the additional aid of a reanalysis of single‐cell RNA‐seq data, I also propose that insulin‐like growth factor 1 (IGF1) functions as a key androgen‐dependent growth factor coordinating stromal‐to‐epithelial paracrine communication. A novel mathematical model based on this framework was able to quantitatively fit experimental data describing prostate regression and regeneration. Model analysis demonstrates how the luminal cell population can maintain a stable equilibrium size via competition for and degradation of stroma‐derived IGF1 and how this population size can be controlled by androgen levels, without a requirement for distinct luminal cell subsets. Moreover, model simulations were able to qualitatively recapitulate experimental observations in inflammatory and cancerous states, thereby providing insights into potential disease mechanisms. This simple model could therefore serve as a foundation for more comprehensive modelling of both the healthy and diseased prostate.
Disentangling the historical routes to community assembly in the global epicentre of biodiversity
Authors: Reijenga Bouwe R. , Freeman Benjamin G. , Murrell David J. , Pigot Alex L.
Published: July 2023

Aim

The exceptional turnover in biota with elevation and number of species coexisting at any elevation makes tropical mountains hotspots of biodiversity. However, understanding the historical processes through which species arising in geographical isolation (i.e. allopatry) assemble along the same mountain slope (i.e. sympatry) remains a major challenge. Multiple models have been proposed including (1) the sorting of already elevationally divergent species, (2) the displacement of elevation upon secondary contact, potentially followed by convergence, or (3) elevational conservatism, in which ancestral elevational ranges are retained. However, the relative contribution of these processes to generating patterns of elevational overlap and turnover is unknown.

Location

Tropical mountains of Central‐ and South‐America.

Time Period

The last 12 myr.

Major Taxa Studied

Birds.

Methods

We collate a dataset of 165 avian sister pairs containing estimates of phylogenetic age, geographical and regional elevational range overlap. We develop a framework based on continuous‐time Markov models to infer the relative frequency of different historical pathways in explaining present‐day overlap and turnover of sympatric species along elevational gradients.

Results

We show that turnover of closely related bird species across elevation can predominantly be explained by displacement of elevation ranges upon contact (81%) rather than elevational divergence in allopatry (19%). In contrast, overlap along elevation gradients is primarily (88%) explained by conservatism of elevational ranges rather than displacement followed by elevational expansion (12%).

Main Conclusions

Bird communities across elevation gradients are assembled through a mix of processes, including the sorting, displacement and conservatism of species elevation ranges. The dominant role of conservatism in explaining co‐occurrence of species on mountain slopes rejects more complex scenarios requiring displacement followed by expansion. The ability of closely related species to coexist without elevational divergence provides a direct and faster pathway to sympatry and helps explain the exceptional species richness of tropical mountains.
Relationship between dysphagia and motor function in community‐dwelling older people
Authors: Sato Mari , Tominaga Ryoji , Kurita Noriaki , Sekiguchi Miho , Otani Koji , Konno Shin‐ichi , Oi Naoyuki
Published: July 2023

Aim

Dysphagia is a problem typically associated with aging. The aim was to investigate the relationship between dysphagia and motor function using a simple assessment method that can be performed in the community setting, and to promote the early detection and prevention of dysphagia.

Methods

Data from the Locomotive Syndrome and Health Outcome in Aizu Cohort Study (LOHAS) were used. Those aged ≥65 years were included. Motor function was assessed using a grip strength test, single limb standing test (SLS), and timed up and go test (TUG). Swallowing function was assessed using the Japanese version of the 10‐item Eating Assessment Tool (EAT‐10). The association between motor function and swallowing function was analyzed.

Results

In total, 1732 participants were included. In logistic regression modes in which grip strength, SLS, and TUG results were included separately, the odds ratio for dysphagia increased by 1.08 (P = 0.001) for each 1‐kg decrease in grip strength, and increased by 1.15 (P < 0.001) for each 1‐s increase in TUG time. No association was found for SLS. In the model in which grip strength and TUG were included simultaneously, the odds ratio for dysphagia increased by 1.06 (P = 0.01) in grip strength, and increased by 1.11 (P = 0.009) in TUG time.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that skeletal muscle strength and dynamic balance function are associated with dysphagia in community‐dwelling older people. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 603–608.
Nutritional features of flour blends composed of durum wheat and lupin
Authors: Spina Alfio , Scarangella Michele , Canale Michele , Sanfilippo Rosalia , Giannone Virgilio , Summo Carmine , Pasqualone Antonella
Published: July 2023

This study aims to improve the nutritional characteristics of durum wheat re‐milled semolina by adding 3%, 7%, 10% and 15% lupin flour (Lupinus albus L.) (L For lupin protein concentrate (LPC) (Lupinus angustifolius L.). Lupin flour showed a high protein content (40.05 g/100 g), which further increased to 55.00 g/100 g in the protein concentrate. Compared to re‐milled semolina, the protein content of the flour blends significantly increased for additions of LPC ≥ 3% and LF ≥ 7%. The lysine score significantly increased at levels of addition of LF or LPC ≥ 7%. The addition of LF at levels ≥ 3% determined an increase of manganese and iron, while copper and zinc increased at addition levels ≥ 10%. The macroelements significantly increased with the addition of LF (at levels ≥ 3% for magnesium; ≥10% for potassium and calcium; ≥15% for phosphorous) and LPC (at levels ≥ 3% for potassium and magnesium and ≥10% for calcium). The obtained flour mixes are potentially suitable for the formulation of biofortified and functional foods.
Skilling marginalised or skills eco‐system, precarious workers and higher education—A case study of Roma in Liverpool, UK
Authors: Jolliffe Patricia , Collins Helen , Gold Jeff
Published: July 2023

This qualitative case study explores the Human Resource Development (HRD) interventions utilised in respect of local eco‐skills with one marginalised group, the Roma, in the City of Liverpool, UK, and responds to HRD research calls into the cause of cycles of inequality. The case study illustrates the challenges experienced by precarious workers in accessing education and training. Further, it shares the interventions taken to address inequalities that a Higher EducationUK University and a local Non‐Government Organisation took between 2016 and 2019. Roma is among the UK and Europe's most disadvantaged and marginalised groups. Working in partnership, utilising Community‐Based Participatory Research, we developed three HRD interventions: stakeholder groups (adult and young Roma), motivational interviewing and employability/education events. The findings unpack an understudied experience and context: the need for more attention to developing skills at a local level for marginalised precarious workers. We found that aspiration grew through focused community support and a partnership approach, and educational opportunities emerged, albeit at a relatively slow pace. This paper ends with a call for action for more HRD educators to work with those at the margins of society.
Ferroptosis in immunostimulation and immunosuppression
Authors: Tang Daolin , Kroemer Guido , Kang Rui
Published: July 2023

Ferroptosis is a form of iron‐dependent regulated cell death characterized by the accumulation of toxic lipid peroxides, particularly in the plasma membrane, leading to lytic cell death. While it plays a crucial role in maintaining the overall health and proper functioning of multicellular organisms, it can also contribute to tissue damage and pathological conditions. Although ferroptotic damage is generally recognized as an immunostimulatory process associated with the release of damage‐associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), the occurrence of ferroptosis in immune cells or the release of immunosuppressive molecules can result in immune tolerance. Consequently, there is ongoing exploration of targeting the upstream signals or the machinery of ferroptosis to therapeutically enhance or inhibit the immune response. In addition to introducing the core molecular mechanisms of ferroptosis, we will focus on the immune characteristics of ferroptosis in pathological conditions, particularly in the context of infection, sterile inflammation, and tumor immunity.
Saving Popular Sovereignty From a Slow Death in the European Union
Authors: Beetz Jan Pieter
Published: July 2023

The European Union (EU) faces a pressing challenge with democratic backsliding potentially resulting in an authoritarian member state. EU institutions have sought to safeguard member state democracy. Most normative studies submit that the EU can legitimately intervene based on either current treaties or the theory of militant democracy, but they leave unanswered the fundamental question of the EU's normative political authority. I argue that shared popular sovereignty, which entails Europe's peoples directly authorizing the EU, is the most appropriate principle to theorize the EU's political authority for the foreseeable future. This principle results in a duty for the EU to protect its democratic peoples from backsliding governments and an account of who can legitimately decide on whether backsliding is taking place. A comprehensive normative assessment follows on the democratic legitimacy of various democracy protection measures. My argument bolsters the normative case for EU democracy protection.
The Neglected Integration Crisis: France, Germany and Lacking European Co‐operation During the 1973/1974 Oil Shock
Authors: Schramm Lucas
Published: July 2023

When does European co‐operation and (further) integration not happen in the face of a major integration crisis? When do France and Germany not emerge as regional stabilizers, forging and uploading bilateral compromises to the European level? By developing a combined theoretical framework based on liberal intergovernmentalism and leadership approaches, this article analyses the European Economic Community's (EEC) reaction to the 1973/1974 oil crisis. Despite some favourable conditions, differences in domestic energy markets and relations with Arab oil‐producing countries complicated member state co‐operation. In turn, divergent economic philosophies and foreign policy priorities prevented France and Germany from filling the European leadership vacuum. As a consequence, the EEC did not find a unified stance on the Arab oil embargo, subordinated itself to US‐American dominance and undermined its common market via export restrictions for oil. The findings suggest that without minimum convergent member state preferences or compensating regional leadership, European integration and today's European Union risk stalling or even disintegrating.
Histological assessment and gene expression analysis of intra‐oral soft tissue graft donor sites
Authors: Stuhr Sandra , Nör Felipe , Gayar Kareem , Couso‐Queiruga Emilio , Chambrone Leandro , Gamborena Iñaki , Kumar Purnima , Avila‐Ortiz Gustavo , Ganesan Sukirth M.
Published: July 2023

Aim

To determine the structural and gene expression features of different intra‐oral soft tissue donor sites (i.e., anterior palate, posterior palate, maxillary tuberosity and retromolar pad).

Materials and Methods

Standardized mucosal tissue punch biopsies were collected from at least one donor site per subject. Histological processing was performed to determine tissue morphometry and quantify collagen composition. Site‐specific gene distribution was mapped using targeted gene expression analysis and validated using real time polymerase chain reaction (qPCR).

Results

A total of 50 samples from 37 subjects were harvested. Epithelial thickness did not differ between sites. However, lamina propria was thicker in the maxillary tuberosity (2.55 ± 0.92 mm) and retromolar pad (1.98 ± 0.71 mm) than in the lateral palate. Type I collagen was the predominant structural protein in the lamina propria (75.06%–80.21%). Genes involving collagen maturation and extracellular matrix regulation were highly expressed in the maxillary tuberosity and retromolar pad, while lipogenesis‐associated genes were markedly expressed in the lateral palate. The retromolar pad showed the most distinct gene expression profile, and the anterior and posterior palate displayed similar transcription profiles.

Conclusions

Tissue samples harvested from the anterior and posterior palate differed morphologically from those from the maxillary tuberosity and retromolar pad. Each intra‐oral site showed a unique gene expression profile, which might impact their biological behaviour and outcomes of soft tissue augmentation procedures.
Callings can take different shapes: Scope, proximity and duration as new complexifications of calling
Authors: Zhou Steven , Aitken John A. , Kuykendall Lauren
Published: July 2023

Recent research on calling has highlighted its nature as a ‘double‐edged sword’ that—while conferring benefits generally—may create vulnerabilities in some cases. We suggest an explanation that complexifies our conceptualization of what calling is. Traditional conceptualizations of calling focus on differences in degree, measuring calling on some numerical scale to answer the question, ‘To what degree do you perceive a calling?’ Our proposed conceptualization of calling argues for differences in the shape of calling, arguing that calling can take different shapes based on three facets: scope (callings can differ between narrow and broad), time proximity (callings can differ between immediate and distal) and duration (callings can differ between short‐term and lifelong). We present a new model depicting these shapes of calling, explain how each advances our understanding of calling above and beyond existing conceptualizations and taxonomies and offer propositions as to how this new conceptualization provides insight into individuals' experiences of pursuing their calling.
Early detection of squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue using multidimensional plasma protein analysis and interpretable machine learning
Authors: Gu Xiaolian , Salehi Amir , Wang Lixiao , Coates Philip J. , Sgaramella Nicola , Nylander Karin
Published: July 2023

Background

Interpretable machine learning (ML) for early detection of cancer has the potential to improve risk assessment and early intervention.

Methods

Data from 261 proteins related to inflammation and/or tumor processes in 123 blood samples collected from healthy persons, but of whom a sub‐group later developed squamous cell carcinoma of the oral tongue (SCCOT), were analyzed. Samples from people who developed SCCOT within less than 5 years were classified as tumor‐to‐be and all other samples as tumor‐free. The optimal ML algorithm for feature selection was identified and feature importance computed by the SHapley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) method. Five popular ML algorithms (AdaBoost, Artificial neural networks [ANNs], Decision Tree [DT], eXtreme Gradient Boosting [XGBoost], and Support Vector Machine [SVM]) were applied to establish prediction models, and decisions of the optimal models were interpreted by SHAP.

Results

Using the 22 selected features, the SVM prediction model showed the best performance (sensitivity = 0.867, specificity = 0.859, balanced accuracy = 0.863, area under the receiver operating characteristic curve [ROC‐AUC] = 0.924). SHAP analysis revealed that the 22 features rendered varying person‐specific impacts on model decision and the top three contributors to prediction were Interleukin 10 (IL10), TNF Receptor Associated Factor 2 (TRAF2), and Kallikrein Related Peptidase 12 (KLK12).

Conclusion

Using multidimensional plasma protein analysis and interpretable ML, we outline a systematic approach for early detection of SCCOT before the appearance of clinical signs.
Parrotiaflower blooming in Miocene rainforest
Authors: Wu Xie‐Ting , Shu Jun‐Wu , Yin Su‐Xin , Sadowski Eva‐Maria , Shi Gong‐Le
Published: July 2023

ParrotiaC. A. Meyer (Hamamelidaceae) is a relictual genus with only two extant species disjunctly distributed in the subtropical forests of East China and temperate forests of North Iran. Fossil records suggest thatParrotiawas widespread in Europe and Asia during the Miocene, but its fossils are predominantly based on pollen and leaves. In this paper we describe the first fossil flower ofParrotiabased on an exceptionally well‐preserved amber inclusion from the middle Miocene of Zhangpu, Southeast China. The fossil flower was investigated with light microscope and microcomputed tomography techniques.Parrotia zhiyaniisp. nov. is a small apetalous staminate flower subtended by a pair of prominent bracts. The androecium consists of 12 stamens, and each stamen consists of a short, slender filament and a prominent, elongated anther. The anthers with short simple trichomes on the outer surface and a prominent apical connective extension are opened by longitudinal slits. Unlike its living relatives, the newParrotiafrom Zhangpu grew in a Miocene seasonal tropical rainforest.
Carving the meat at the joint: The role of defining how animals are viewed and treated in the governance of (re‐)emergent pandemic zoonoses in international law
Authors: Viens A. M. , Cassar Victoria , Atique Asma
Published: July 2023

Pandemic zoonoses, such as COVID‐19, are one of the greatest challenges of the 21st century. International governance tasked with attempting to prevent the (re‐)emergence of zoonotic disease in the first place, or preparation and actual response once (re‐)emergence or spread has occurred, has largely been fragmented among different governance systems, such as health, food, environment, and trade. The international legal instruments that these governance systems use reflect different ways of viewing and treating animals, which has led to a similarly fragmented approach to the regulation of human–animal interactions related to zoonoses. To illustrate this state of affairs, we develop a descriptive conceptual taxonomy to elucidate and map out how the status and evaluative stance taken toward animals can lead to shaping human‐animal relationships by structuring the nature of their interactions and disposes us to adopt governance approaches that seek to regulate human–animal relationships in particular ways. This paper concludes by highlighting some implications surrounding the fragmented conceptualization and practice around how animals are viewed and treated for the future of international legal governance of pandemic zoonoses.
Reporting Quality of Single–Case Research Published in Learning Disabilities Journals
Authors: Hott Brittany L. , Heiniger Sarah , Justus Jasmine , Randolph Kathleen M. , Al Shabibi Amal , Beasley Brooki , Frank Kerry , Mitchell Wendy , Tennell Courtney , Wester Fanee
Published: July 2023

Single–case research designs are useful for learning disability researchers interested in refining novel interventions (e.g., new mathematics intervention) before scaling, small n populations (e.g., students with comorbid learning and emotional and behavioral disabilities), and testing unique conditions (e.g., remote locales). Much attention has been devoted to developing research quality standards, which is essential for replication and implementation fidelity; however, little is known about the reporting quality of single–case design studies. To gain insight into the quality of learning disability single–case research design study reporting, we analyzed 72 articles published between 2010 and 2021 in six learning disability–focused journals using the Single–Case Reporting Guideline In BEhavioral interventions (SCRIBE) standards. Findings suggest that reporting quality has remained stagnant, and none of the studies reviewed met all of the reporting standards. Alignment with standards ranged from 33% to 77%. Implications for researchers and practitioners are discussed.
Definition, diagnosis and epidemiology of acute‐on‐chronic liver failure
Authors: Hernaez Ruben , Li Hai , Moreau Richard , Coenraad Minneke J.
Published: July 2023

This narrative review addresses the definition of acute‐on‐chronic liver failure, a condition associated with high short‐term mortality in patients with chronic liver disease and/or cirrhosis. We provide two major points of view: the East and the West perspective. Both definitions vary regarding the underlying patient population and organ failure(s) definition. Nevertheless, all the definitions have their clinical utility: from the core concept of having the “liver” as a conditio sine qua non, the syndrome cannot exist (Asian Pacific Association for the Study of the Liver); a data‐driven, robust definition (European Association for the Study of the Liver); a bedside tool that can quickly identify patients at high risk of dying (North American Consortium for the Study of End‐stage Liver Disease [NACSELD]). In each section, we provide the overall definitions, the criteria of organ failure(s), and some epidemiological data illustrating how these apply in each area of the world.
Worldwide comparison between the potential distribution of Rhipicephalus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae) under climate change scenarios
Authors: Perez‐Martinez M. B. , Moo‐Llanes D. A. , Ibarra‐Cerdeña C. N. , Romero‐Salas D. , Cruz‐Romero A. , López‐Hernández K. M. , Aguilar‐Dominguez M.
Published: July 2023

The cattle tick Rhipicephalus microplus (Acari: Ixodidae) has demonstrated its ability to increase its distribution raising spatially its importance as a vector for zoonotic hemotropic pathogens. In this study, a global ecological niche model of R. microplus was built in different scenarios using Representative Concentration Pathway (RCP), Socio‐Economic Pathway (SSP), and a climatic dataset to determine where the species could establish itself and thus affect the variability in the presentation of the hemotropic diseases they transmit. America, Africa and Oceania showed a higher probability for the presence of R. microplus in contrast to some countries in Europe and Asia in the ecological niche for the current period (1970–2000), but with the climate change, there was an increase in the ratio between the geographic range preserved between the RCP and SSP scenarios obtaining the greatest gain in the interplay of RCP4.5‐SSP245. Our results allow to determine future changes in the distribution of the cattle tick according to the increase in environmental temperature and socio‐economic development influenced by human development activities and trends; this work explores the possibility of designing integral maps between the vector and specific diseases.
Factors affecting the outcome of fecal microbiota transplantation for patients with irritable bowel syndrome
Authors: El‐Salhy Magdy , Gilja Odd Helge , Hatlebakk Jan Gunnar
Published: July 2023

Background

A previous study that introduced a Fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) protocol with a high efficacy applied a combination of favorable factors.

Aims

The present study aimed to evaluate some of these factors.

Methods

This study included 186 patients with IBS randomized 1:1:1 into transplant administered to the colon (single LI), to the duodenum (single SI), or to the duodenum twice with a 1‐week interval (repeated SI). The patients provided a fecal sample and were asked to complete five questionnaires at baseline and at 3, 6, and 12 months after FMT. The fecal bacteria composition and dysbiosis index (DI) were analyzed using 16S rRNA gene PCR DNA amplification/probe hybridization covering regions V3–V9.

Results

The response rate was significantly higher in single SI than in single LI at 12 months after FMT. Symptoms and quality of life improved in all the treated groups at all time intervals after FMT. The abdominal symptoms were significantly reduced and the quality of life improved for repeated SI compared with for single SI. DI significantly decreased in all the treated groups at all observation times after FMT. The bacterial profiles changed in all groups at all observation intervals. However, these changes differed between single LI and single SI/repeated SI.

Conclusion

Administrating transplant to the small intestine had a long‐term higher response rate than that administrated to the large intestine, and led to long‐term colonization of beneficial bacteria. Repeating FMT had more effect on symptoms and quality of life than a single FMT. (www.clinicaltrials.gov: NCT04236843).
ASPNSynergizes withHAPLN1to Inhibit the Osteogenic Differentiation of Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stromal Cells and Extracellular Matrix Mineralization of Osteoblasts
Authors: Zhou Guohui , Yan Xinmin , Chen Zhenfei , Zeng Xing , Wu Fangqian
Published: July 2023

Objective

Bone marrow mesenchymal stromal cells (BMSCs) are major sources of osteogenic precursor cells in bone remodeling, which directly participate in osteoporosis (OP) progression. However, the involved specific mechanisms of BMSCs in OP warrant mass investigations. Initially, our bioinformatics analysis uncovered the prominent up‐regulation of Asporin (ASPN) and proteoglycan link protein 1 (HAPLN1) in osteoblasts (OBs) of OP patients and their possible protein interaction. Hence, this study aimed to explore the effects of ASPN and HAPLN1 on osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs, extracellular matrix (ECM) mineralization of OBs, and osteoclastogenesis, hoping to offer research basis for OP treatment.

Methods

GSE156508 dataset was used for analysis and screening to acquire the differentially expressed genes in OBs of OP patients, followed by the predicative analysisviaSTRING. OP mouse models were induced by ovariectomy (OVX), and ASPN and HAPLN1 expression was determined. BMSCs and bone marrow macrophages (BMMs) were isolated from OVX mice and induced for osteogenic differentiation and osteoclastogenesis, respectively. After knockdown experiments, we assessed adipogenic differentiation and osteogenic differentiation in BMSCs. Osteogenic (OPN, OCN, and COL1A1) and osteoclast (Nfatc1 and c‐Fos) marker protein expression was determined. The binding of ASPN to HAPLN1 was analyzed.

Results

High expression of ASPN and HAPLN1 and their protein interaction were observed in OBs of OP patientsviabioinformatics and in bone tissues of OVX mice. ASPN interacted with HAPLN1 in BMSCs of OVX mice. ASPN/HAPLN1 knockdown increased ALP, OPN, OCN, and COL1A1 protein expression and ECM mineralization in BMSCs while decreasing Nfatc1 and c‐Fos expression in BMMs. These effects were aggravated by the simultaneous knockdown of ASPN and HAPLN1.

Conclusion

Our results indicate that ASPN synergises with HAPLN1 to suppress the osteogenic differentiation of BMSCs and ECM mineralization of OBs and promote the osteoclastogenesis in OP.
Sterilization efficacy of a new water‐free breast milk pasteurizer
Authors: Chishiki Mina , Nishiyama Kyoko , Suzutani Tatsuo , Hiruta Shun , Ichikawa Hirotaka , Haneda Kentaro , Maeda Hajime , Shimizu Hiromi , Kanai Yuji , Ogasawara Kei , Go Hayato , Sato Maki , Momoi Nobuo , Nollet Kenneth E. , Ohto Hitoshi , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: July 2023

Background

Breast milk, nature's optimum source of nutrition for infants, can contain undesirable microorganisms that cause severe morbidity. After an outbreak of multidrug‐resistant Escherichia coli among neonates receiving breast milk donated by another mother in our neonatal intensive care unit (NICU), we were motivated to develop a high‐grade breast milk pasteurizer (BMP) designed to thaw and pasteurize breast milk at 63°C for 30 min in a sealed bag without having to open the bag or immerse it in water.

Methods

Pre‐existing bacteria and spiked cytomegalovirus (CMV) were measured pre‐ and post‐pasteurization in frozen breast milk donated by mothers of children admitted to the NICU.

Results

Among 48 breast milk samples (mean ± standard deviation [SD]), pre‐existing bacterial counts of 5.1±1.1 × 104 colony forming units (cfu)/mL decreased to less than 10 cfu/mL (below detection level) in 45 samples after pasteurization for 30 min. In three samples, 10–110 cfu/mL persisted. As no CMV was detected in any of the 48 samples, CMV at ≥5 × 104 pfu/mL was spiked into 11 breast milk samples. After just 10 min of pasteurization, infectious CMV was not detected (threshold <50 pfu/mL) in any sample.

Conclusion

A new BMP was shown to pasteurize milk effectively with more than a 3‐log reduction of microorganisms. Compared to conventional pasteurizers, this device reduces the effort involved in pasteurizing breast milk, avoids various contamination risks, and may reduce the risk of infectious disease transmission via breast milk.
Effectiveness and safety of Tolvaptan in infants with congenital heart disease
Authors: Sakaguchi Haruhide , Hirano Daishi , Saito Aya , Takemasa Yoichi , Umeda Chisato , Miwa Saori , Ito Akira , Oishi Kimihiko
Published: July 2023

Background

Tolvaptan (TLV) is a selective vasopressin receptor 2 antagonist administered for congestive heart failure (CHF) after inadequate response to other diuretics. The effectiveness and safety of TLV have been evaluated well in adult patients. However, reports on its use in pediatric patients, especially infants, are scarce.

Methods

We retrospectively evaluated 41 children younger than 1 year of age who received TLV for CHF for congenital heart disease (CHD) between January 2010 and August 2021. We monitored the occurrence of adverse events, including acute kidney injury and hypernatremia, as well as laboratory data trends.

Results

Of the 41 infants included, 51.2% were male. The median age when TLV was initiated was 2 months, interquartile range (IQR) 1–4 months, and all infants had been administered other diuretics previously. The median dose of TLV was 0.1 mg/kg/day (IQR, 0.1–0.1). Urine output increased significantly after 48 h of treatment: baseline, 315 mL/day (IQR, 243–394); 48 h, 381 mL/day (IQR, 262–518) , p = 0.0004; 72 h, 385 mL/day (IQR, 301–569), p = 0.0013; 96 h, 425 mL/day (IQR, 272–524), p = 0.0006; and 144 h, 396 mL/day (IQR, 305–477), p = 0.0036. No adverse events were observed.

Conclusions

Tolvaptan can be used safely and efficiently in infants with CHD. From the perspective of adverse effects, initiating administration at a lower dosage is preferable because this was found to be sufficiently effective.