bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Reactivation of herpesvirus type-6 and IgA/IgM-mediated responses to activin-A underpin Long COVID, including affective symptoms and chronic fatigue syndrome
Authors: Vojdani Aristo , Almulla Abbas F. , Zhou Bo , Al-Hakeim Hussein K. , Maes Michael
Published: July 2023

Background

Persistent infection with severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2), reactivation of dormant viruses, and immune-oxidative responses are involved in Long COVID.

Objectives

To investigate whether Long COVID and depressive, anxiety and chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS) symptoms, are associated with IgA/IgM/IgG to SARS-CoV-2, human Herpesvirus type 6 (HHV-6), Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV), and immune-oxidative biomarkers.

Methods

We examined 90 Long COVID patients and 90 healthy controls. We measured serum IgA/IgM/IgG against HHV-6 and EBV and their deoxyuridine 5′-triphosphate nucleotidohydrolase (duTPase), SARS-CoV-2, and activin-A, C-reactive protein (CRP), advanced oxidation protein products (AOPP), and insulin resistance (HOMA2-IR).

Results

Long COVID patients showed significant elevations in IgG/IgM-SARS-CoV-2, IgG/IgM-HHV-6 and HHV-6-duTPase, IgA/IgM-activin-A, CRP, AOPP, and HOMA2-IR. Neural network analysis yielded a highly significant predictive accuracy of 80.6% for the Long COVID diagnosis (sensitivity: 78.9%, specificity: 81.8%, area under the ROC curve=0.876); the topmost predictors were: IGA-activin-A, IgG-HHV-6, IgM-HHV-6-duTPase, IgG-SARS-CoV-2, and IgM-HHV-6 (all positively) and a factor extracted from all IgA levels to all viral antigens (inversely). The top-5 predictors of affective symptoms due to Long COVID were: IgM-HHV-6-duTPase, IgG-HHV-6, CRP, education, IgA-activin-A (predictive accuracy of r=0.636). The top-5 predictors of CFS due to Long COVID were in descending order: CRP, IgG-HHV-6-duTPase, IgM-activin-A, IgM-SARS-CoV-2, and IgA-activin-A (predictive accuracy: r=0.709).

Conclusion

Reactivation of HHV-6, SARS-CoV-2 persistence, and autoimmune reactions to activin-A combined with activated immune-oxidative pathways play a major role in the pathophysiology of Long COVID as well as the severity of affective symptoms and CFS due to Long COVID.
Elucidating the Assembly of Gas Vesicles by Systematic Protein-Protein Interaction Analysis
Authors: Iburg Manuel , Anderson Andrew P. , Wong Vivian T. , Anton Erica D. , He Art , Lu George J.
Published: July 2023

Gas vesicles (GVs) are gas-filled microbial organelles formed by unique 3-nm thick, amphipathic, force-bearing protein shells, which can withstand multiple atmospheric pressures and maintain a physically stable air bubble with megapascal surface tension. However, the molecular process to assemble this shell remains elusive: while 6-8 assembly factor proteins were identified as essential, none of them have a defined function. As one of the first steps to elucidate the assembly mechanism, we devise a high-throughputin vivoassay to determine the interactions of all 11 proteins in a GV operon. Complete or partial deletions of the operon establish the interdependence relationship of the interaction on the background GV proteins with additional information on assembly tolerance and cellular burden. Clusters of GV protein interactions are revealed, which establishes the plausible protein complexes important for the assembly process of these protein organelles. We anticipate our findings will set the stage for solving the molecular mechanism of GV assembly and designing GVs that efficiently assemble in heterologous hosts during biomedical applications.
Temporal changes in the positivity rate of common enteric viruses among paediatric admissions in coastal Kenya, in the period spanning the COVID-19 pandemic, 2019-2022
Authors: Lambisia Arnold W. , Murunga Nickson , Mutunga Martin , Cheruiyot Robinson , Maina Grace , Makori Timothy O. , Nokes D. James , Agoti Charles N.
Published: July 2023

Background

The non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPIs) implemented to curb the spread of SARS-CoV-2 early in the COVID-19 pandemic years, disrupted the activity of other respiratory viruses. There is limited data from low-and-middle income countries (LMICs) to determine whether COVID-19 NPIs also impacted the epidemiology of enteric viruses. We investigated the changes in infection patterns of common enteric viruses among hospitalised children who presented with diarrhoea to a referral hospital in coastal Kenya, in the period spanning the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

A total of 870 stool samples from children under 13 years of age admitted to Kilifi County Hospital between January 2019, and December 2022 were screened for rotavirus group A (RVA), norovirus genogroup II (GII), astrovirus, sapovirus, and adenovirus type F40/41 using real-time reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. The proportions positive across the four years were compared using the chi-squared test statistic.

Results

One or more of the five virus targets were detected in 282 (32.4%) cases. A reduction in the positivity rate of RVA cases was observed from 2019 (12.1%, 95% confidence interval (CI) 8.7% - 16.2%) to 2020 (1.7%, 95% CI 0.2% – 6.0%; p< 0.001). However, in the 2022, RVA positivity rate rebounded to 23.5% (95% CI 18.2% - 29.4%). For norovirus GII, the positivity rate fluctuated over the four years with its highest positivity rate observed in 2020 (16.2%; 95% C.I, 10.0% – 24.1%). No astrovirus cases were detected in 2020 and 2021, but the positivity rate in 2022 was similar to that in 2019 (3.1% (95% CI 1.5% - 5.7%) vs 3.3% (95% CI 1.4% – 6.5%)). A higher case fatality rate was observed in 2021 (9.0%) compared to the 2019 (3.2%), 2020 (6.8%) and 2022 (2.1%) (p <0.001).

Conclusion

Our study finds that in 2020 the transmission of common enteric viruses, especially RVA and astrovirus, in Kilifi Kenya may have been disrupted due to the COVID-19 NPIs. After 2020, local enteric virus transmission patterns appeared to return to pre-pandemic levels coinciding with the removal of most of the government COVID-19 NPIs.
The impact of team support, financial incentives and public sector motivation on employee motivation: an empirical study of the public sector in Vietnam
Authors: Nguyen Hoa Dinh , Chau Thi Ngoc , Huynh Quyen Vo Thuc
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to investigate the relationship of employee motivation to team support, financial incentives and public sector motivation in various agencies under the Binh Dinh People's Committee in Vietnam. These agencies fulfil state management functions in many fields, such as investment, finance, construction, sports, culture and tourism.

Design/methodology/approach

This study applies the quantitative method to test team support, financial incentives and public service motivation (PSM) in relation to employee motivation in the public sector. The data are analysed using covariance-based structural equation modelling (SEM), with a sample size of 263 employees who work at provincial government agencies.

Findings

The study results show that team support, financial incentives and PSM have a positive influence on employee motivation in the public sector.

Originality/value

The findings provide theoretical evidence that team support, financial incentives and PSM are key predictors of employee motivation in the public sector in the context of an emerging economy. Consequently, the authors propose that managers in the public sector should motivate employees by communicating with employees about the employees' roles in improving the local people's lives to stimulate the PSM of employees. In addition, managers should always provide constructive feedback that recognises employees' achievements and pay bonuses based on job performance and successful projects to improve public service.
Variational quantum simulation of partial differential equations: applications in colloidal transport
Authors: Leong Fong Yew , Koh Dax Enshan , Ewe Wei-Bin , Kong Jian Feng
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This study aims to assess the use of variational quantum imaginary time evolution for solving partial differential equations using real-amplitude ansätze with full circular entangling layers. A graphical mapping technique for encoding impulse functions is also proposed.

Design/methodology/approach

The Smoluchowski equation, including the Derjaguin–Landau–Verwey–Overbeek potential energy, is solved to simulate colloidal deposition on a planar wall. The performance of different types of entangling layers and over-parameterization is evaluated.

Findings

Colloidal transport can be modelled adequately with variational quantum simulations. Full circular entangling layers with real-amplitude ansätze lead to higher-fidelity solutions. In most cases, the proposed graphical mapping technique requires only a single bit-flip with a parametric gate. Over-parameterization is necessary to satisfy certain physical boundary conditions, and higher-order time-stepping reduces norm errors.

Practical implications

Variational quantum simulation can solve partial differential equations using near-term quantum devices. The proposed graphical mapping technique could potentially aid quantum simulations for certain applications.

Originality/value

This study shows a concrete application of variational quantum simulation methods in solving practically relevant partial differential equations. It also provides insight into the performance of different types of entangling layers and over-parameterization. The proposed graphical mapping technique could be valuable for quantum simulation implementations. The findings contribute to the growing body of research on using variational quantum simulations for solving partial differential equations.
Does a farmer's knowledge of minimum support price (MSP) affect the farm-gate price? Evidence from India
Authors: Korekallu Srinivasa Aditya , Praveen K.V. , Surendran Padmaja Subash , Nithyashree M.L. , Jha Girish K.
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper examines whether farmers' knowledge of the minimum support prices (MSPs) affects farm-gate prices. MSP is the minimum guaranteed price for agricultural commodities announced by the Government of India for 24 commodities. Most farmers in India prefer to sell their produce at the farm-gate due to a small marketable surplus and hence do not directly benefit from MSP. The authors test the common argument in the political discourse that if farmers have knowledge of MSP, then they can bargain with traders during the farm-gate transaction and demand a better price close to MSP.

Design/methodology/approach

The authors use matching methods to examine the impact of knowledge of MSP on farm-gate prices.

Findings

Using nationally representative data, the authors show that there is no empirical evidence that the knowledge of MSP of the crops leads to higher bargaining power and better farm-gate prices.

Practical implications

Price information (MSP in this case) alone cannot improve the bargaining power of farmers and result in a better price realization. As a safety net, MSP fails in the absence of procurement of products by the government. This also raises the question of the equitability of the price support system in India and calls for a rethink of the MSP policy.

Originality/value

This study is the first of its kind to examine the anchoring effect of knowledge of MSP on farm-gate prices using a nationally representative dataset.
Two cases of cutaneous‐type pemphigus vulgaris and a case of pemphigus foliaceus without mucosal involvement despite high anti‐desmoglein 3 autoantibody levels
Authors: Terada Akari , Akasaka Eijiro , Nakano Hajime , Sawamura Daisuke
Published: July 2023

Pemphigus is an autoimmune blistering disease with two major subtypes, pemphigus vulgaris (PV) and pemphigus foliaceus (PF). Although most patients with PV show oral lesions, cutaneous type PV (C‐PV) is a rare subtype clinically characterized by predominant cutaneous involvement with no or subtle mucosal lesions. Patients with PF present with only skin involvement; they do not have mucosal lesions. Serologically, autoantibodies against desmoglein (Dsg) 3 and Dsg1 are observed in C‐PV whereas PF is associated with anti‐Dsg1 antibodies only. Herein, we describe three cases of pemphigus presenting with predominant skin lesions and no mucosal involvement despite high anti‐Dsg 3 autoantibody levels in chemiluminescent enzyme immune assays (CLEIAs). In addition, anti‐Dsg 1 autoantibodies were positive in patients 2 and 3, but negative in patient 1 based on CLEIAs. Histological examination of the skin showed suprabasal acantholysis in patients 1 and 2, and blister formation in the upper epidermis in patient 3. Histopathology of the oral membrane in patients 1 and 2 showed subtle acantholysis in the suprabasal layer. Thus, we diagnosed patients 1 and 2 as having cutaneous type PV and patient 3 as having PF. Ethylenediaminetetraacetic acid‐treated enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay demonstrated a low proportion of anti‐Dsg3 autoantibodies recognizing Ca2+‐dependent epitopes, antibodies against which are thought to be the main contributor to acantholysis. Thus, along with Dsg1 antibodies, weak anti‐Dsg3 antibodies could induce acantholysis in the skin, but they are insufficient to induce mucosal lesions.
Context‐dependent evolution of high trophic position drives functional disparity in subterranean crustaceans
Authors: Premate Ester , Borko Špela , Altermatt Florian , Fišer Cene
Published: July 2023

Species performance depends on the concerted interplay of their functional traits. Natural selection acts on the performance of the species and influences entire suits of interdependent functional traits, thereby driving the evolution of functional diversity (FD) within a clade.

In a given habitat, interdependent functional traits are expected to integrate into only a few adaptive combinations. When a clade diversifies in different habitats, the FD within habitats (herein called α‐FD) diversifies in response to local selections, while between the habitats, alternative adaptive combinations of interdependent traits that are specific to the habitat emerge. This multivariate selection leads to two hypotheses. First, realized α‐FD within one habitat represents only a small fraction of the variation of functional traits, and second, realized FDs across habitats (hereafter called β‐FD) are equal to or greater than would be in the absence of the interdependence of functional traits.

We tested these hypotheses using 185 species of the highly diverse subterranean amphipod genus Niphargus living in three habitats: river interstitial, cave lakes, and cave streams. We (i) explored integration of functional traits related to locomotion and feeding biology and tested (ii) if realized α‐FD within each habitat is lower than it would be without trait interdependence, and (iii) if realized β‐FD in pairwise comparisons of habitats is higher than it would be without trait interdependence.

In all three habitats, the length of the appendages as a proxy of the locomotion speed was positively correlated with the trophic position of the species. On the contrary, the body shape correlations were habitat dependent: species in high trophic positions were slender, stout or invariant in shape in interstitial, cave streams and cave lakes, respectively.

Using null models, we show that only a fraction of functional trait combinations was realized in each habitat, whereas β‐FD between habitats was equal to or greater than the null expectations.

The results indicate preserved potential for diversification in species within and between habitats. This potential can be realized through hybridization and can drive diversification in adaptive radiations. Moreover, this perspective on the evolution of FD is compatible with several central ecological and evolutionary concepts, such as adaptive landscape or ecological niche theory.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Conserving habitat for migratory ungulates: How wide is a migration corridor?
Authors: Merkle Jerod A. , Lowrey Blake , Wallace Cody F. , Hall L. Embere , Wilde Luke , Kauffman Matthew J. , Sawyer Hall
Published: July 2023

Conserving migratory ungulates relies on the analysis of GPS collar data and associated maps of migration corridors to inform management and policy actions. Current methods for identifying migratory corridors use complex statistical models designed to account for movement uncertainty rather than estimating the amount of space required by animals to migrate. Furthermore, such methods can complicate conservation efforts by producing highly variable corridor widths and non‐contiguous corridors that do not fully connect seasonal ranges.

To remedy, we propose an intuitive line buffer approach for delineating individual migration corridors that is simple to implement and focuses on the functional corridor widths needed by migratory ungulates.

By buffering a line that connects successive GPS locations, we can delineate individual migration corridors with consistent widths that are robust to variable parameters (GPS fix rate, travel speed, tortuosity) and provide contiguous connection between seasonal ranges. Using a combination of expert knowledge, simulation and 10‐min GPS collar data collected from mule deer (Odocoileus hemionus) and pronghorn (Antilocapra americana), we suggest 400–600 m are reasonable estimates of functional migration corridor widths for individuals of those species.

Synthesis and applications. Our line buffer approach is intended to simplify migration corridor delineation, improve transparency and encourage a broader discussion of functional corridor widths. These considerations help advance efforts to conserve habitat within migration corridors and prioritize conservation efforts within a single corridor or across multiple corridors.
Automated face recognition using deep neural networks produces robust primate social networks and sociality measures
Authors: Schofield Daniel P. , Albery Gregory F. , Firth Josh A. , Mielke Alexander , Hayashi Misato , Matsuzawa Tetsuro , Biro Dora , Carvalho Susana
Published: July 2023

Longitudinal video archives of behaviour are crucial for examining how sociality shifts over the lifespan in wild animals. New approaches adopting computer vision technology hold serious potential to capture interactions and associations between individuals in video at large scale; however, such approaches need a priori validation, as methods of sampling and defining edges for social networks can substantially impact results.

Here, we apply a deep learning face recognition model to generate association networks of wild chimpanzees using 17 years of a video archive from Bossou, Guinea. Using 7 million detections from 100 h of video footage, we examined how varying the size of fixed temporal windows (i.e. aggregation rates) for defining edges impact individual‐level gregariousness scores.

The highest and lowest aggregation rates produced divergent values, indicating that different rates of aggregation capture different association patterns. To avoid any potential bias from false positives and negatives from automated detection, an intermediate aggregation rate should be used to reduce error across multiple variables. Individual‐level network‐derived traits were highly repeatable, indicating strong inter‐individual variation in association patterns across years and highlighting the reliability of the method to capture consistent individual‐level patterns of sociality over time. We found no reliable effects of age and sex on social behaviour and despite a significant drop in population size over the study period, individual estimates of gregariousness remained stable over time.

We believe that our automated framework will be of broad utility to ethology and conservation, enabling the investigation of animal social behaviour from video footage at large scale, low cost and high reproducibility. We explore the implications of our findings for understanding variation in sociality patterns in wild ape populations. Furthermore, we examine the trade‐offs involved in using face recognition technology to generate social networks and sociality measures. Finally, we outline the steps for the broader deployment of this technology for analysis of large‐scale datasets in ecology and evolution.
Comparative anatomy of the mitral valve in four species (human, ovine, porcine and canine): A pre‐clinical perspective
Authors: Alexis Morlet , Laurence Fiette , Marie‐Aude Genain , Christian Latrémouille , Nicolas Borenstein
Published: July 2023

This study aimed to provide comparative anatomical data on the mitral valve and to substantiate the choice between large species for pre‐clinical testing of cardiac devices. Different anatomical parameters of the anterior and posterior leaflets, chordae and papillary muscles were measured to characterize the anatomy of the mitral valve in 10 individuals for each four species. Ratios were calculated and used to circumvent the interspecies variations of body and heart size and weight. The results underline many relevant anatomical similarities and differences between man and the three animal species. We confirm that the porcine species is a better model based on anatomical measurements. But many parameters should be considered depending on the shape, size and purpose of the device. The mitral and aortic valve are closer than in man leading to potential damage of the aortic valve by a mitral device. The ovine mitral annulus is more flattened and would sustain more mechanical forces on a round‐shaped stent. The anterior and posterior leaflets have comparable height in the animal species leading to more space for implantation. The porcine valve has more chordae allowing less space around the valve for a transcatheter stent. Our observations introduce new comparative data in the perspective of the choice of a large animal model for pre‐clinical testing of mitral devices. They are very helpful for all cardiologists, surgeons or engineers who need to understand the reasons for success or failure of a device and to have key elements of discussion.
Feasibility and safety of a surgical training program in total laparoscopic hysterectomy: Results of a pilot trial
Authors: Obermair Andreas , Hanna George B. , Gebski Val , Graves Nicholas , Coleman Mark G , Sanjida Saira , Horsham Caitlin , Rao Archana , Janda Monika
Published: July 2023

Background

It is widely accepted total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) and vaginal hysterectomy are less invasive procedures compared to total abdominal hysterectomy (TAH). However, rates of TAH remain unreasonably high.

Aim

To pilot‐test a model of training for practising obstetricians and gynaecologists (O&Gs) in TLH.

Materials and Methods

Training of participating O&Gs was conducted across four hospitals in Queensland, Australia, while other O&Gs were observed as contemporary controls. Type of hysterectomy, details of the surgery, including adverse events, were collected from hospital medical records.

Results

Eleven O&Gs completed the pre‐intervention and intervention training periods, and nine completed the post‐intervention follow‐up. TLH rates increased from 24% prior to 75% during and 68% after intervention. Overall, the uptake rate of TLH showed a two‐fold increase during the intervention period (2.08, 95% CI: 1.16–8.56, P < 0.001) and a 12% increase was retained during the follow‐up period (1.12, 95% CI: 0.54–4.02, P = 0.427). Pre‐intervention, across all sites, 24% of hysterectomies were performed via TAH by the participating specialist trainees, which decreased to 13% during the intervention and 14% during follow‐up. The rate of adverse events decreased from 13.5% at pre‐intervention, to 6.4% during and 4.2% post‐intervention. By comparison, no change in surgical approach or rate of adverse events was observed in the control group.

Conclusions

The implementation of a formal and structured surgical training program teaching TLH resulted in important benefits to trainees, patients and society in the four trial hospitals.
Development of the national bariatric prioritization tool in Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Srikumar Gajan , Schroeder David , McEwan Christopher , MacCormick Andrew D. ,   the Bariatric Prioritisation Tool Working Group
Published: July 2023

Background

Bariatric surgery is a proven effective method of reducing obesity and reversing or preventing obesity‐related comorbidities. The aim of this study is to describe the development of a tool to assist with the prioritization of patients with obesity for bariatric surgery. The tool would meet the criteria for being evidence‐based, fair, implementable and transparent.

Methods

The development of the tool involved a validated step‐by‐step process based on the consensus of clinical judgement of the New Zealand Ministry of Health working party. The process involved elicitation of criteria, clinical ranking of vignettes and creation of weightings using the 1000Minds® tool. The concurrent validity was tested by comparing tool rankings of vignettes to clinical judgement rankings.

Results

Four major criteria (impact on life, likelihood of achieving maximum benefit with respect to control of diabetes, duration of benefit and surgical risk) are used to characterize the need and potential to benefit. The impact on life criterion has the largest weighting (up to 44.3%). There was good concurrent validity with a correlation coefficient r = 0.67.

Conclusion

The tool as presented is evidence‐based, transparent and internally valid. The next step is to assess the predictive validity of the tool using real patient data to evaluate the effectiveness of the tool and determine what modifications may be required.
Rituximab–bortezomib–dexamethasone induce high response rates in iMCD in clinical practice
Authors: Yin Xuejiao , Liu Yi , Zhong Chengli , Lv Yunfei , Xu Dan , Zhu Li , Jin Jie , Meng Haitao , You Liangshun
Published: July 2023

Treatment options for idiopathic multicentric Castleman disease (iMCD) are currently limited, especially for patients who do not respond or are resistant to interleukin‐6 inhibitors. For the first time, we innovatively designed a protocol using rituximab–bortezomib–dexamethasone (RVD) as first‐line consolidation therapy in patients newly diagnosed with iMCD. Furthermore, we adopted a no‐maintenance treatment strategy to simplify post‐remission care. Five patients with iMCD were enrolled (including one with TAFRO syndrome) and underwent the RVD regimen, all of whom achieved partial response (PR) or better. After four cycles of RVD, three (60%) patients achieved PR, while one (20%) achieved a complete response. These five patients, who achieved PR or better, discontinued treatment but remained stable for a median follow‐up of 11 months, with a duration of response of 7, 7, 10, 12 and 13 months, respectively. None of the patients experienced grade ≥3 adverse events during the observation period. Collectively, these findings demonstrated that the RVD regimen may be a promising treatment option for patients with iMCD. It was a safe and effective approach that resulted in lasting responses without the need for ongoing maintenance therapy.
The Experiences of Psychotherapists Delivering Therapy During the Shared Crisis of a Pandemic
Authors: Dunn Ellen , Charura Divine , Niblock Sarah , Davies Gabriel
Published: July 2023

The objective of this study was to capture therapists’ experiences of delivering therapy throughout the COVID‐19 pandemic and how this experience impacted therapeutic alliance. Quantitative and qualitative analyses were conducted on the responses to three surveys distributed to all UKCP members. The qualitative and quantitative analyses found significant variability in therapists’ feelings regarding the transition to online therapy, with overall perceptions continuing to be divided similarly throughout the nine months surveyed. While qualitative data highlighted positive perceptions of online therapy for some, quantitative results showed that most did not find online therapy to be as effective as face‐to‐face therapy. The pandemic and subsequent shift to online work had significant implications for therapists, including navigating unfamiliar changes to the therapeutic space resulting from experiencing a shared crisis, and holding the frame in relation to boundaries of safety. In the wake of the pandemic, as things shift increasingly towards a hybrid model of delivering therapy, it is important to reflect on what can be learned from this transition and how this influences future therapeutic practices.
Attachment style and children and young people with chronic dermatological conditions
Authors: Soon Kristina , Shipton Anna , Wray Jo , Butler Stephen
Published: July 2023

Background

Dermatological conditions are common in childhood and, in their more severe forms, can cause pain, disability and social marginalisation. Despite attachment being a known factor contributing to psychological and physiological development in childhood and several adult studies showing associations between attachment and dermatology outcomes (Tomas‐Aragones, 2018), attachment in young dermatology patients has not been investigated.

Objectives

This study examined if (1) 8–16‐year‐olds with chronic dermatological conditions were more likely to show attachment insecurity than general population peers; (2) attachment style was linked to psychological functioning; and (3) facial involvement was associated with attachment insecurity.

Method

One hundred and twenty‐two 8–16‐year‐olds attending a specialist paediatric dermatological service were compared on the Child Attachment Interview (CAI) to general population data. The Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ) was used to measure psychosocial functioning.

Results

The dermatology group was significantly more likely to be insecurely attached than their general population peers (χ2[1] = 4.76, p < .05). The secure group self‐reported significantly better psychological functioning on all indices compared with the insecure group (Total Difficulties: F[1,89] = 15.30, p < .001). There were no significant differences between secure and insecure groups on parent‐reported psychological measures (Total Difficulties: F[1,94] = 0.67, p = .42). Children with facial involvement were not significantly more likely to be insecurely attached.

Conclusions

Increased risk of attachment insecurity, particularly in the anxious pre‐occupied category, as well as an association between attachment and psychosocial functioning resonated with adult studies suggesting that further research about the role of attachment with young dermatology patients is warranted.
Beyond linearity: Using IRT‐scaled level models to describe the relation between prior proportional reasoning skills and fraction learning outcomes
Authors: Schadl Constanze , Ufer Stefan
Published: July 2023

Previous research on the role of prior skills like proportional reasoning skills for the development of mathematical concepts offers conclusions such as “more (prior skills) is better (for later learning).” Insights, which prior skill level goes along with which level of learning outcomes, may advance the understanding of the development of mathematical concepts. An exploratory approach is presented based on level models to describe the relation between symbolic proportional reasoning skills and fraction outcomes beyond linearity. Analyses draw on samples of German fourth to sixth graders from a scaling (2017, N = 325, 54.8% female) and longitudinal study (2018/2019, N = 436, 42.7% female). Particularly mastering natural and internal rational ratios in proportional reasoning seems relevant for successful fraction learning.
Clinical and radiographic outcomes of implant‐supported zirconia fixed dental prostheses with cantilever extension: A proof‐of‐principle study with a follow‐up of at least 1 year
Authors: Roccuzzo Andrea , Morandini Michele , Stähli Alexandra , Imber Jean‐Claude , Sculean Anton , Salvi Giovanni E.
Published: July 2023

Objectives

To test the reliability of full zirconia implant‐supported fixed dental prostheses with cantilever extension (FDPCs) after at least 1 year of function.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐five patients in need of implant‐supported single unit crowns (SUC) and FDPCs in posterior areas were enrolled. After implant placement, patients were rehabilitated with screw‐retained full‐zirconia FDPCs. Implant survival rate, pocket probing depth (PPD), presence/absence of bleeding on probing (BoP), and presence/absence of mechanical/technical complications were recorded. Mesial and distal radiographic marginal bone levels (mBLs) from baseline (i.e., recall appointment 3–6 months after implant loading [T0]) to the follow‐up examination (i.e., latest recall appointment after at least 12 months after T0 [T1]), were calculated.

Results

Thirty patients with 34 FDPCs (31 SUCs and 3 FDPs) supported by 37 implants were available for analysis after a mean loading time of 2.6 ± 1.5 years (range: 13–87 months). No implants were lost. MBLs and mean PPD values did not change statistically significantly from T0 to T1 from 0.92 mm ± 0.42 to 0.96 mm ± 0.38 (95% CI: −0.07/0.17; p = .418) and from 2.99 mm ± 0.70 to 3.27 mm ± 0.71 (95% CI: −0.11/0.68; p = .25) respectively. Peri‐implant mucositis was diagnosed in 22 cases. Screw‐loosening and zirconia chipping occurred 1× in 4 patients.

Conclusion

Within the limitations of the present proof‐of‐principle study, the use of full‐zirconia FDPCs in posterior areas seems a valid and safe short‐term treatment option.
Digital ink‐jet printing of regenerated cellulose nanofibrous mats with reactive inks
Authors: Sattar Asifa , Khatri Awais , Ali Shamshad , Ahmed Farooq
Published: July 2023

The versatility of nanofibres enables them to be used for various technological applications such as filtration, biomedicine and healthcare, composites, protective and functional textiles. Recently, in addition to the functional properties of electrospun nanofibrous mats, their aesthetic properties have been explored. Herein, attempts have been made to develop digital ink‐jet printing of regenerated cellulose nanofibrous mats with reactive inks. First, a cellulose acetate polymer was created to fabricate electrospun cellulose acetate nanofibrous mats, which were then converted into regenerated cellulose nanofibrous mats through deacetylation. Next, the cellulose nanofibrous mats were treated with an alkaline solution then coloured with four (cyan, magenta, yellow and black) commercially available reactive inks by a digital ink‐jet printing method using a piezoelectric digital ink‐jet printer. Various parameters were investigated, including the optimal concentration of the pretreatment agents, fixation temperature and time, colour yield and the absorbency of the electrospun nanofibrous mats. The digital ink‐jet printed cellulose nanofibrous mats exhibited excellent colour yield and colour fastness properties. Morphological analysis through scanning electron microscopy and chemical analysis through Fourier Transform–infrared were also carried out.
Comparison of deformation behavior between creep and fatigue on siltstone and its modified damage model
Authors: Yang Pengjin , Miao Shengjun , Wang Hui , Li Conghao , Shang Xiangfan , Xia Daohong
Published: July 2023

In order to reveal the deformation behavior similarity between creep and fatigue, a series of creep and cyclic load tests were performed on siltstone under various load levels. First, the mechanical characteristics of creep and fatigue were compared, by analyzing the strength, ultimate strain, and steady deformation rate of siltstone. Then, a modified fatigue damage creep model was established by connecting a viscoplastic damage element in series with Burgers mode. Finally, the applicability of the model was verified, and the model parameters were analyzed. The results show that the fatigue failure of siltstone is controlled by fatigue strength and limit strain. The modified fatigue damage creep model can accurately describe the whole deformation process of siltstone under cyclic load test. Compared with creep test, the cyclic load hardly affects the elastic modulus of this model. However, the viscosity coefficient of this model is greatly weakened by the cyclic load.
Soil amendment with biochar and manure alters wood stake decomposition and fungal community composition
Authors: Zhao Ruirui , Liu Yong , Gundale Michael J.
Published: July 2023

Biochar and manure can be used for sustainable land management. However, little is known about how soil amendments might affect surface and belowground microbial processes and subsequent wood decomposition. In a split‐split‐split plot design, we amended soil with two rates of manure (whole plot; 0 and 9 Mg ha−1) and biochar (split plot; 0 and 10 Mg ha−1). Wood stakes of three species (hybrid poplar, triploid Populus tomentosa Carr.; aspen, Populus tremuloides Michx.; and pine, Pinus taeda L.) were placed in two positions (horizontally on the soil surface, and inserted vertically in the mineral soil), which served as a substrate for fungal growth. In 3 years, the decomposition rate (density loss), moisture content, and fungal community (via high‐throughput sequencing methods) of stakes were evaluated. Results indicated that biochar and/or manure increased the wood stake decomposition rates, moisture content, and operational taxonomic unit abundance. However, the richness and diversity of fungi were dependent on wood stake position (surface > mineral), species (pine > the two Populus), and sample dates. This study highlights that soil amendment with biochar and/or manure can alter the fungal community, which in turn can enhance an important soil process (i.e., decomposition).
Clinical utility of postablation liver tumor biopsy and possibility of gene mutation analysis
Authors: Nakatsuka Takuma , Nakagawa Hayato , Uchino Koji , Rokutan Hirofumi , Tanaka Mariko , Moriyama Makoto , Fukumoto Tsuyoshi , Yamada Tomoharu , Wake Taijiro , Nakagomi Ryo , Sato Masaya , Minami Tatsuya , Kudo Yotaro , Ushiku Tetsuo , Fujishiro Mitsuhiro , Tateishi Ryosuke
Published: July 2023

Aim

Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is regarded as a first‐line treatment for hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) at an early stage. When treated with RFA, tumor biopsy may not be performed due to the risk of neoplastic seeding. We previously revealed that the risk of neoplastic seeding is significantly reduced by performing biopsies after RFA. In this study, we investigated the possibility of pathological evaluation and gene mutation analysis of post‐RFA tumor specimens.

Methods

Radiofrequency ablation was undertaken on diethylnitrosamine‐induced mouse liver tumor, and tumor samples with or without RFA were subjected to whole exome sequencing. Post‐RFA human liver tumor specimens were used for detection of TERT promoter mutations and pathological assessment.

Results

The average somatic mutation rate, sites of mutation, and small indels and base transition patterns were comparable between the nontreated and post‐RFA tumors. We identified 684 sites of nonsynonymous somatic substitutions in the nontreated tumor and 704 sites of nonsynonymous somatic substitutions in the post‐RFA tumor, with approximately 85% in common. In the human post‐RFA samples, the TERT promoter mutations were successfully detected in 40% of the cases. Pathological evaluation was possible with post‐RFA specimens, and in one case, the diagnosis of adenocarcinoma was made.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that post‐RFA liver tumor biopsy is a useful and safe method for obtaining tumor samples that can be used for gene mutation analysis and for pathological assessment.
Na2GdMg2V3O12:Sm3+ phosphors for three‐mode optical temperature sensing
Authors: Chen JunYu , Li LianJie , Pang Tao , Guo Hai , Chen LiPing
Published: July 2023

Multi‐mode optical thermometry is emerging as a promising technique for accurate temperature measurement. Here, a series of Na2GdMg2V3O12:Sm3+ (NGMVO:xSm3+) phosphors with dual‐emission centers were successfully elaborated. Irradiated by 349 nm light, NGMVO:Sm3+ can generate emissions from VO43− and Sm3+ simultaneously due to energy transfer between them. Benefitting from difference of thermal quenching performance of two luminescent centers, fluorescence intensity (FI), fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR), and Commission Internationale de L'Eclairage coordinate modes of NGMVO:Sm3+ thermometer were designed. Maximum relative sensitivities (SR) are found to be as high as 2.21 %K−1, 2.12 %K−1, and 0.244 %K−1, respectively. Besides, with temperature increasing, SR values of FI and FIR modes decrease slowly. Their minimal SR values between 303 and 513 K maintain above 1.36 %K−1 and 1.08 %K−1, respectively. Our findings reveal that NGMVO:Sm3+ phosphors have promising applications for multimode temperature senor.
Treponema pallidum membrane protein Tp47 induced autophagy and inhibited cell migration in HMC3 cells via the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway
Authors: Xie Lin , Li Wei , Zheng Xin‐Qi , Liu Li‐Li , Lin Li‐Rong , Niu Jian‐Jun , Yang Tian‐Ci
Published: July 2023

The migratory ability of microglia facilitates their rapid transport to a site of injury to kill and remove pathogens. However, the effect of Treponema pallidum membrane proteins on microglia migration remains unclear. The effect of Tp47 on the migration ability and autophagy and related mechanisms were investigated using the human microglial clone 3 cell line. Tp47 inhibited microglia migration, the expression of autophagy‐associated protein P62 decreased, the expression of Beclin‐1 and LC3‐II/LC3‐I increased, and the autophagic flux increased in this process. Furthermore, autophagy was significantly inhibited, and microglial cell migration was significantly increased after neutralisation with an anti‐Tp47 antibody. In addition, Tp47 significantly inhibited the expression of p‐PI3K, p‐AKT, and p‐mTOR proteins, and the sequential activation of steps in the PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathways effectively prevented Tp47‐induced autophagy. Moreover, Tp47 significantly inhibited the expression of p‐FOXO1 protein and promoted FOXO1 nuclear translocation. Inhibition of FOXO1 effectively suppressed Tp47‐induced activation of autophagy and inhibition of migration. Treponema pallidum membrane protein Tp47‐induced autophagy and inhibited cell migration in HMC3 Cells via the PI3K/AKT/FOXO1 pathway. These data will contribute to understanding the mechanism by which T. pallidum escapes immune killing and clearance after invasion into the central nervous system.
Validating a Caregiving Rewarding Feelings scale among family caregivers of those diagnosed with schizophrenia in China
Authors: Tong Xiaoliang , Li Tongxin , Xi Shijun , Yu Yu
Published: July 2023

Introduction

A culturally adaptive and easy‐to‐administer 12‐item Caregiving Rewarding Feelings (CRF) scale has been developed in China yet never published in English and validated in another population.

Aim

The current study aimed to validate the CRF among a community sample of Chinese caregivers of those diagnosed with schizophrenia.

Method

A sample of 449 family caregivers was recruited for scale validation that included factorial validity, construct validity, measurement invariance, item analysis, internal consistency reliability, test–retest reliability, known‐group validity, convergent validity and divergent validity.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis supported the a priori three‐factor structure. Construct validity was supported by high standard regression weight (SRW) and average variance extracted (AVE), measurement invariance across age and gender groups. The CRF showed good internal consistency and test–retest reliability. Known‐group validity was confirmed by the higher CRF scores among caregivers with certain socio‐demographics. The convergent validity of the CRF was supported by its positive correlations with social support, active coping and family functioning. The divergent validity of the CRF was supported by its negative associations with stigma, stress and depressive symptoms.

Conclusions

This study confirmed the reliability and validity of the CRF specifically designed for caregivers in Chinese culture.

Implications for Practice

The CRF may be further applied and validated in other populations and other countries.
Combined use of the ELF test and CLivD score improves prediction of liver‐related outcomes in the general population
Authors: Åberg Fredrik , Saarinen Kustaa , Jula Antti , Lundqvist Annamari , Vihervaara Terhi , Erlund Iris , Färkkilä Martti
Published: July 2023

Background and Aims

Effective and feasible population screening strategies are needed for the early detection of individuals at high risk of future severe liver‐related outcomes. We evaluated the predictive performance of the combination of liver fibrosis assessment, phenotype profile, and genetic risk.

Methods

Data from 5795 adults attending the Finnish Health 2000 Survey were linked with healthcare registers for liver‐related outcomes (hospitalization, hepatocellular cancer, and death). Fibrosis was assessed using the enhanced liver fibrosis (ELF) test, phenotype profile by the chronic liver disease (CLivD) risk score, and genetic risk by a validated Polygenic Risk Score (PRS‐5). Predictive performance was assessed by competing‐risk analyses.

Results

During a median 13‐year follow‐up, 64 liver‐related outcome events were recorded. ELF, CLivD score, and PRS‐5 were independently associated with liver‐related outcomes. The absolute 10‐year risk of liver‐related outcomes at an ELF value of 11.3 ranged from 0.3% to 33% depending on the CLivD score. The CLivD score added 51% of new predictive information to the ELF test and improved areas under the curve (AUCs) from 0.91, 0.81, and 0.71 for ELF alone to 0.95, 0.85, and 0.80, respectively, for ELF combined with the CLivD score at 1, 5, and 10 years. The greatest improvement was for 10‐year predictions (delta‐AUC 0.097, p < .0001). Adding PRS‐5 did not significantly increase predictive performance. Findings were consistent in individuals with obesity, diabetes, or alcohol risk use, and regardless of whether gamma‐glutamyltransferase was used in the CLivD score.

Conclusion

A combination of ELF and CLivD score predicts liver‐related outcomes significantly better than the ELF test alone.
Exploring mentorship in surgery: An interview study on how people stick together
Authors: Enani Ghada N. , Brydges Ryan , MacRae Helen M. , Louridas Marisa
Published: July 2023

Objective

The objective is to explore the processes contributing to how and why mentors and mentees initiate, maintain and grow in their mentorship relationships in surgery.

Background

To explore the processes contributing to how and why mentors and mentees initiate, maintain and grow their mentorship relationships in surgery. Evidence suggests that mentorship has a positive impact on physicians' success. Consequently, mentorship programmes have been incorporated into many medicine environments, albeit with variable success.

Methods

We designed an interview‐based study using a constructivist grounded theory approach to explore the dynamics of mentorship between junior and experienced surgeons. Recruited mentees were asked to nominate a senior surgeon they identified as a mentor. Both mentee and mentors were then interviewed separately. Transcripts were analysed using constant comparison to a create a final coding framework and to generate themes.

Results

We interviewed nine faculty mentors and 10 junior faculty mentees. Our analysis identified key themes describing how to initiate, maintain and grow a mentorship relationship. Mentorship starts with ensuring a ‘good fit’, persists through satisfying a reciprocal loop with timely communication and deepens the relationship through cycles of mutual investment, learning, and success. Participants also discussed how to navigate through tensions to avoid relationship breakdown, balancing formality and friendship, knowing when to transition a relationship to a new dynamic and finding areas of realistic contribution.

Conclusions

We found that successful mentorship relationships are viewed as dynamic and thus require active investment and shared responsibility between mentees and mentors. Our results also emphasise the value of co‐regulation in the relationship, where cycles of mutual investment can contribute to mutual learning and growth.