bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Frontal EEG alpha asymmetry in youth with autism: Sex differences and social–emotional correlates
Authors: Neuhaus Emily , Santhosh Megha , Kresse Anna , Aylward Elizabeth , Bernier Raphael , Bookheimer Susan , Jeste Shafali , Jack Allison , McPartland James C. , Naples Adam , Van Horn John D. , Pelphrey Kevin , Webb Sara Jane ,   ACE GENDAAR Network
Published: September 2023

In youth broadly, EEG frontal alpha asymmetry (FAA) associates with affective style and vulnerability to psychopathology, with relatively stronger right activity predicting risk for internalizing and externalizing behaviors. In autistic youth, FAA has been related to ASD diagnostic features and to internalizing symptoms. Among our large, rigorously characterized, sex‐balanced participant group, we attempted to replicate findings suggestive of altered FAA in youth with an ASD diagnosis, examining group differences and impact of sex assigned at birth. Second, we examined relations between FAA and behavioral variables (ASD features, internalizing, and externalizing) within autistic youth, examining effects by sex. Third, we explored whether the relation between FAA, autism features, and mental health was informed by maternal depression history. In our sample, FAA did not differ by diagnosis, age, or sex. However, youth with ASD had lower total frontal alpha power than youth without ASD. For autistic females, FAA and bilateral frontal alpha power correlated with social communication features, but not with internalizing or externalizing symptoms. For autistic males, EEG markers correlated with social communication features, and with externalizing behaviors. Exploratory analyses by sex revealed further associations between youth FAA, behavioral indices, and maternal depression history. In summary, findings suggest that individual differences in FAA may correspond to social–emotional and mental health behaviors, with different patterns of association for females and males with ASD. Longitudinal consideration of individual differences across levels of analysis (e.g., biomarkers, family factors, and environmental influences) will be essential to parsing out models of risk and resilience among autistic youth.
Collaboration during the diagnostic decision‐making process: When does it help?
Authors: Kämmer Juliane E. , Ernst Karin , Grab Kim , Schauber Stefan K. , Hautz Stefanie C. , Penders Dorothea , Hautz Wolf E.
Published: September 2023

When making complex decisions, such as a medical diagnosis, decision makers typically gather, analyze, and synthesize (integrate) information. In a previous study, we showed that delegating such complex decisions to collaborating pairs increases decision quality substantially compared to that of individuals, without requiring different information gathering. Given the higher costs associated with teamwork, however, it is of great practical interest to understand when in the process the performance benefits of teams may arise, so that particular subtasks can be delegated to teams when most appropriate. We thus conducted an experimental study in which fourth‐year medical students (n = 109) worked either in pairs or alone on two separate subtasks of the diagnostic process: (1) analyzing diagnostic test results (e.g., X‐rays) and (2) integrating previously interpreted test results into diagnoses. Linear mixed‐effects models revealed a small benefit of collaborating pairs over individuals in both subtasks. We conclude that collaborating with a peer may pay off both when analyzing information and when integrating it into a diagnosis as it provides the opportunity to correct each other's errors and to make use of a greater knowledge base. These findings encourage the strategic use of collaboration with a colleague when making complex decisions. Further research into the underlying processes is needed.
Effectiveness of regional diffusion MRI measures in distinguishing multiple sclerosis abnormalities within the cervical spinal cord
Authors: Snoussi Haykel , Cohen‐Adad Julien , Combès Benoît , Bannier Élise , Tounekti Slimane , Kerbrat Anne , Barillot Christian , Caruyer Emmanuel
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is an inflammatory disorder of the central nervous system. Although conventional magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is widely used for MS diagnosis and clinical follow‐up, quantitative MRI has the potential to provide valuable intrinsic values of tissue properties that can enhance accuracy. In this study, we investigate the efficacy of diffusion MRI in distinguishing MS lesions within the cervical spinal cord, using a combination of metrics extracted from diffusion tensor imaging and Ball‐and‐Stick models.

Methods

We analyzed spinal cord data acquired from multiple hospitals and extracted average diffusion MRI metrics per vertebral level using a collection of image processing methods and an atlas‐based approach. We then performed a statistical analysis to evaluate the feasibility of these metrics for detecting lesions, exploring the usefulness of combining different metrics to improve accuracy.

Results

Our study demonstrates the sensitivity of each metric to underlying microstructure changes in MS patients. We show that selecting a specific subset of metrics, which provide complementary information, significantly improves the prediction score of lesion presence in the cervical spinal cord. Furthermore, the Ball‐and‐Stick model has the potential to provide novel information about the microstructure of damaged tissue.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that diffusion measures, particularly combined measures, are sensitive in discriminating abnormal from healthy cervical vertebral levels in patients. This information could aid in improving MS diagnosis and clinical follow‐up. Our study highlights the potential of the Ball‐and‐Stick model in providing additional insights into the microstructure of the damaged tissue.
Patient‐derived organoid culture in epithelial ovarian cancers—Techniques, applications, and future perspectives
Authors: Chan Wai Sun , Mo Xuetang , Ip Philip Pun Ching , Tse Ka Yu
Published: September 2023

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is a heterogeneous disease composed of different cell types with different molecular aberrations. Traditional cell lines and mice models cannot recapitulate the human tumor biology and tumor microenvironment (TME). Patient‐derived organoids (PDOs) are freshly derived from patients' tissues and are then cultured with extracellular matrix and conditioned medium. The high concordance of epigenetic, genomic, and proteomic landscapes between the parental tumors and PDOs suggests that PDOs can provide more reliable results in studying cancer biology, allowing high throughput drug screening, and identifying their associated signaling pathways and resistance mechanisms. However, despite having a heterogeneity of cells in PDOs, some cells in TME will be lost during the culture process. Next‐generation organoids have been developed to circumvent some of the limitations. Genetically engineered organoids involving targeted gene editing can facilitate the understanding of tumorigenesis and drug response. Co‐culture systems where PDOs are cultured with different cell components like immune cells can allow research using immunotherapy which is otherwise impossible in conventional cell lines. In this review, the limitations of the traditional in vitro and in vivo assays, the use of PDOs, the challenges including some tips and tricks of PDO generation in EOC, and the future perspectives, will be discussed.
Survey shows families need help communicating about illicit prescription drugs in fentanyl era
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2023

Youth say parents don't talk about the dangers of misusing prescription drugs, parents say they do. Clearly, families need help, because young people are buying illicit and fake pills even over the internet — and overdosing and dying.
How climate changes affects children: Promoting hope
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: September 2023

In a recent JAMA Health Forum article, nurses wrote about the stress facing teens due to climate change. “Growing up in an era of storms and stress — promoting hope among adolescents in the face of climate change” by Allison McCord Stafford, Ph.D., RN and colleagues from Duke University noted that the landmark court case, Held v. Montana, showed the impact of extreme weather on the livelihoods and health of young people. Young people brought the lawsuit. And their testimony — about the damages to the land, farm animals, health, finances, and their worries about their future — was eloquent. It is the older generation that has brought this stress upon them.
Appendicular actinomycosis: The first reported case of an uncommon finding of a common ailment from Nepal
Authors: Bohara Sujan , Khadka Manoj , Bhat Pawan Singh , Syangtang Prajwal , Karki Badal , Shrestha Bhagawan , Acharya Shoshan Arja , Khetan Khusbhu , Rayamajhi Jyoti , Rawal Sushil Bahadur
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Actinomycosis is a rare cause of appendicitis with an incidence of 0.3–1 incident per year per 100,000 people. A significant preoperative diagnostic challenge exists and is usually diagnosed incidentally on histopathological examination.

Appendicular actinomycosis, a rare, chronic granulomatous infection caused by actinomyces species, holds a significant preoperative diagnostic summons and is often diagnosed serendipitously during the regular histopathological examination. Herein, we present a case of a 36‐year‐old female who presented with features suggestive of acute appendicitis, underwent laparoscopic appendicectomy, and was diagnosed with appendicular actinomycosis from the histopathological examination.
Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis and viral encephalitis: An unusual and misleading imaging
Authors: Shukla Isha , Modasia Bhavin , Chaurasia Bipin
Published: September 2023

Key Clinical Message

Acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM) is a rare illness. It is characterized by different presentations like encephalopathy, seizures, hemiplegia, and visual symptoms. We present a patient who presented seizures and encephalopathy. Brain MRI showed symmetrical white and gray matter lesions. He was treated with acyclovir for viral encephalitis and given immunotherapy for ADEM. The radiological findings may be inconclusive in some cases, hence differential diagnosis of both viral encephalitis and ADEM needs to be considered. Early immunotherapy is required in such fulminant cases.
Burden of late effects in a nationwide sample of long‐term breast cancer survivors
Authors: Smedsland Solveig K. , Falk Ragnhild S. , Reinertsen Kristin V. , Kiserud Cecilie E. , Brekke Mette , Bøhn Synne H. , Dahl Alv A. , Vandraas Kathrine F.
Published: September 2023

Background

Long‐term breast cancer survivors (BCSs) may experience several late effects (LEs) simultaneously. This study aimed to identify subgroups of 8‐year BCSs with higher burden of LEs who could benefit from closer survivorship care, explore variables associated with higher symptom burden, and describe how symptom burden may affect general functioning.

Methods

All Norwegian women aged 20 to 65 years when diagnosed with stage I‐III breast cancer in 2011 and 2012 were invited (n = 2803). The European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire/BR23, the Fatigue Questionnaire, Assessment of Survivor Concerns, and Scale for Chemotherapy Induced Long‐term Neurotoxicity were used to assess 10 common LEs and general functioning. Using latent class analysis, subgroups of BCSs with similar burden of LEs were identified. Multinominal regression analysis were performed to examine variables associated with higher symptom burden.

Results

The final sample consisted of 1353 BCSs; 46% had low, 37% medium, and 17% high symptom burden. Younger age, short education, axillary dissection, higher systemic treatment burden, higher body mass index, and physical inactivity were associated with higher symptom burden. General functioning scores were lower, and the proportion on disability pension were higher among BCSs in the two most burdened subgroups compared with those in the low burden subgroup.

Conclusion

More than half of long‐term BCSs suffered from medium or high symptom burden and experienced impaired general functioning compared with BCS with low symptom burden. Younger age and systemic treatment were important risk factors for higher symptom burden. BCSs at risk of higher symptom burdens should be identified and offered closer and extended survivorship care.
Top advances of the year: Pancreatic cancer
Authors: Warren Emilie A. K. , Lesinski Gregory B. , Maithel Shishir K.
Published: September 2023

This commentary highlights the key recent advances made in the field of pancreatic cancer. Although there has yet to be a major breakthrough in clinical care for the majority of patients, significant strides have been made in understanding the complex biology of this malignancy and identifying new therapeutic targets.
Adduct‐Type Compounds for Nonlinear Optical Crystals
Authors: Wang Chao , Yang Shunda , Luo Min
Published: September 2023

The performance prerequisites for nonlinear optical (NLO) crystals encompass a substantial second‐harmonic generation (SHG), a considerable laser induced damage threshold, and a moderate degree of birefringence. Nevertheless, the presence of particular anions may result in deficiencies within certain properties. The utilization of mixed anionic groups has emerged as an effective strategy to achieve a balance among numerous performance parameters of NLO crystals, particularly in terms of SHG responses and bandgaps. Compared with other heteroanionic compounds, adduct‐type compounds feature more concise structures with specific properties. Herein, we aim to provide an overview of the recent advancements in adduct‐type NLO crystals, focusing on their structures and properties. Furthermore, we analyze the coordination chemistry and disadvantages involved in adducts, and discuss the current synthesis methods as well as future directions for further exploration.
Sequential Recognition of Bisulfate and Acetate by a Ruthenium(II) Complex: Experimental and Theoretical Studies
Authors: Bazany‐Rodríguez Iván. J. , García‐Rojas Liliana Margarita , Guadalupe Hernández José , Thangarasu Pandiyan
Published: September 2023

New complex [RuLCl2(PPh3)] (L=N,N‐bis(2‐hydroxy‐5‐nitrobenzaldehyde)‐2,2’‐diaminodiethylamine) was prepared and characterized analytically and was employed as a luminescent chemosensor for the detection of anions. The results show that [RuLCl2(PPh3)] can detect HSO4− and AcO− selectively and in sequential order in H2O‐CH3CN (8 : 2, v/v) at pH 7.0. The spectral binding, titration, and interference analyses reveal that the addition of HSO4− to [RuLCl2(PPh3)] results in an intense fluorescence emission (IF/I0=6.55). This shows that HSO4− interacts suitably with the complex to switch ON the fluorescence which could be explained by inhibition of a PET mechanism as the above addition forms [RuLCl(HSO4)(PPh3)] in the excited state. Selectivity interaction of complex [RuLCl2(PPh3)] with HSO4− results in the formation of [RuLCl(HSO4)(PPh3)] in water but the system exhibits negligible change in its emission except for AcO−, which enhances fluorescence intensity. For the addition of AcO− to [RuLCl2(PPh3)], the system [RuLCl(AcO)(PPh3)] is formed, however, the adding of HSO4− to [RuLCl(AcO)(PPh3)] does not show any change in the intensity, suggesting that there exists a logic gate function for the addition of HSO4− followed by AcO− to [RuLCl2(PPh3)]. This finding is interesting because [RuLCl2(PPh3)] can act as a fast selective chemosensor for the sequential detection of HSO4− and AcO−.
Persistence of neuropsychiatric symptoms and dementia prognostication: A comparison of three operational case definitions of mild behavioral impairment
Authors: Guan Dylan X. , Smith Eric E. , Pike G. Bruce , Ismail Zahinoor
Published: September 2023

INTRODUCTION

We compared three operational case definitions of mild behavioral impairment (MBI) in the context of MBI prevalence estimates and dementia risk modeling.

METHODS

Participants were dementia‐free older adults (n = 13701) from the National Alzheimer's Coordinating Center. Operational case definitions of MBI were generated based on neuropsychiatric symptoms at one (OV), two‐consecutive (TCV), or more than two‐thirds (TTV) of dementia‐free study visits. Definitions were compared in prevalence and in Cox regressions using MBI to predict incident dementia.

RESULTS

OV MBI was the most prevalent (54.4%), followed by TCV (32.3%) and TTV (26.7%) MBI. However, OV MBI had the lowest rate of incident dementia (hazard ratio [HR] = 2.54, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 2.33–2.78) and generated poorer model metrics than TCV MBI (HR = 4.06, 95% CI: 3.74–4.40) and TTV MBI (HR = 5.77, 95% CI: 5.32–6.26).

DISCUSSION

Case ascertainment with longer timeframe MBI operational case definitions may more accurately define groups at risk of dementia in datasets lacking tools designed to detect MBI.

Highlights

Mild behavioral impairment (MBI) can identify older adults at risk of dementia.

Neuropsychiatric symptom (NPS) assessment tools can be proxy measures for MBI.

Hazard for dementia was highest for MBI defined by NPS presence at more than two‐thirds of visits.
Evolution of endoglucanase genes in subterranean and surface isopod crustaceans from Central Western Australia
Authors: Javidkar Mohammad , Cooper Steven J. B. , Shokri Bousjein Nahid , Humphreys William F. , King Rachael A. , Austin Andrew D.
Published: September 2023

Recent studies have identified a significant number of endogenous cellulase genes in various arthropods, including isopods, allowing them to process hydrocarbons efficiently as a food source. While this research has provided insight into underlying gene‐level processes in cellulose decomposition by arthropods, little is known about the existence and expression of cellulase genes in species from cave environments where carbohydrates are sparse. To investigate whether endogenous cellulase genes are maintained in subterranean species, we sequenced the transcriptomes of two subterranean paraplatyarthrid isopod species from calcrete (carbonate) aquifers of central Western Australia and a related surface isopod species. Seven protein‐coding open‐reading frames associated with endoglucanase genes were identified in all species. Orthology inference analyses, using a wide range of cellulase sequences from available databases, supported the endogenous origin of the putative endoglucanase genes. Selection analyses revealed that these genes are primarily subject to purifying selection in most of the sites for both surface and subterranean isopod species, indicating that they are likely to encode functional peptides. Furthermore, evolutionary branch models supported the hypothesis of an adaptive shift in selective pressure acting on the subterranean lineages compared with the ancestral lineage and surface species. Branch‐site models also revealed a few amino acid sites on the subterranean branches to be under positive selection, suggesting the acquisition of novel adaptations to the subterranean environments. These findings also imply that hydrocarbons exist in subsurface aquifers, albeit at reduced levels, and have been utilized by subterranean isopods as a source of energy for millions of years.
Seasonal variability of lotic macroinvertebrate communities at the habitat scale demonstrates the value of discriminating fine sediment fractions in ecological assessments
Authors: Mathers Kate L. , Armitage Patrick D. , Hill Matthew , McKenzie Morwenna , Pardo Isabel , Wood Paul J.
Published: September 2023

Despite lotic systems demonstrating high levels of seasonal and spatial variability, most research and biomonitoring practices do not consider seasonality when interpreting results and are typically focused at the meso‐scale (combined pool/riffle samples) rather than considering habitat patch dynamics. We therefore sought to determine if the sampling season (spring, summer and autumn) influenced observed macroinvertebrate biodiversity, structure and function at the habitat unit scale (determined by substrate composition), and if this in turn influenced the assessment of fine sediment (sand and silt) pressures. We found that biodiversity supported at the habitat level was not seasonally consistent with the contribution of nestedness and turnover in structuring communities varying seasonally. Habitat differences in community composition were evident for taxonomic communities regardless of the season but were not seasonally consistent for functional communities, and, notably, season explained a greater amount of variance in functional community composition than the habitat unit. Macroinvertebrate biodiversity supported by silt habitats demonstrated strong seasonal differences and communities were functionally comparable to sand habitats in spring and to gravel habitats in autumn. Sand communities were impoverished compared to other habitats regardless of the season. Silt habitats demonstrated a strong increase in Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera (EPT) taxa and functional richness from spring into autumn, while vegetation habitats displayed a peak in EPT abundance in summer. Only silt and sand habitats demonstrated temporal variability in functional evenness suggesting that these habitats are different in terms of their resource partitioning and productivity over time compared to other habitats. Gravel and vegetation habitats appeared to be more stable over time with functional richness and evenness remaining consistent. To accurately evaluate the influence of fine sediment on lotic ecosystems, it is imperative that routine biomonitoring and scientific research discriminate between sand and silt fractions, given they support different biodiversity, particularly during summer and autumn months.
Inhaled nitric oxide testing in predicting prognosis in pulmonary hypertension due to left‐sided heart diseases
Authors: Satoh Taijyu , Yaoita Nobuhiro , Nochioka Kotaro , Tatebe Shunsuke , Hayashi Hideka , Yamamoto Saori , Sato Haruka , Takahama Hiroyuki , Suzuki Hideaki , Terui Yosuke , Yamada Kaito , Yamada Yusuke , Inoue Takumi , Aoki Tatsuo , Satoh Kimio , Sugimura Koichiro , Miyata Satoshi , Yasuda Satoshi
Published: September 2023

Aims

The pathophysiology of pulmonary hypertension (PH) due to left‐sided heart disease (Group 2 PH) is distinct from that of other groups of PH, yet there are still no approved therapies that selectively target pulmonary circulation. The increase in pulmonary capillary pressure due to left‐sided heart disease is a trigger event for physical and biological alterations of the pulmonary circulation, including the nitric oxide (NO)–soluble guanylate cyclase–cyclic guanosine monophosphate axis. This study investigated inhaled NO vasoreactivity tests for patients with Group 2 PH and hypothesized that these changes may have a prognostic impact.

Methods and results

This was a single‐centre, retrospective study with a median follow‐up of 365 days. From January 2011 to December 2015, we studied 69 patients with Group 2 PH [age, 61.5 ± 13.0 (standard deviation) years; male:female, 49:20; left ventricular ejection fraction, 50.1 ± 20.4%; mean pulmonary arterial pressure, ≥25 mmHg; and pulmonary arterial wedge pressure (PAWP), >15 mmHg]. No adverse events were observed after NO inhalation. Thirty‐four patients with Group 2 PH showed increased PAWP (ΔPAWP: 3.26 ± 2.22 mmHg), while the remaining 35 patients did not (ΔPAWP: −2.11 ± 2.29 mmHg). Multivariate analysis revealed that increased PAWP was the only significant predictor of all‐cause death or hospitalization for heart failure (HF) after 1 year (hazard ratio 4.35; 95% confidence interval, 1.27–14.83; P = 0.019). The acute response of PAWP to NO differed between HF with preserved and reduced ejection fractions.

Conclusions

Patients with Group 2 PH were tolerant of the inhaled NO test. NO‐induced PAWP is a novel prognostic indicator.
Post‐hypoxic status epilepticus – A distinct subtype of status epilepticus with poor prognosis
Authors: Orav Kateriine , Bosque Varela Pilar , Prüwasser Tanja , Machegger Lukas , Leitinger Markus , Trinka Eugen , Kuchukhidze Giorgi
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the clinical outcome of patients with possible and definitive post‐hypoxic status epilepticus (SE) and to describe the SE types in patients with definitive post‐hypoxic SE.

Methods

Patients with definitive or possible SE resulting from hypoxic brain injury after cardiac arrest (CA) were prospectively recruited. Intermittent EEG was used for the diagnosis of SE according to clinical practice. Two raters blinded to outcome analyzed EEGs retrospectively for possible and definitive SE patterns and background features (frequency, continuity, reactivity, and voltage). Definitive SE was classified according to semiology (ILAE). Mortality and Cerebral Performance Categories (CPC) score were evaluated 1 month after CA.

Results

We included 64 patients of whom 92% died. Among the survivors, only one patient had a good neurological outcome (CPC 1). No patient survived with a burst suppression pattern, low voltage, or electro‐cerebral silence in any EEG. Possible or definitive SE was diagnosed in a median of 47 h (IQR 39–72 h) after CA. EEG criteria for definitive electrographic SE were fulfilled in 39% of patients; in 38% – for electroclinical SE and in 23% – for ictal‐interictal continuum (IIC). The outcome did not differ significantly between the three groups. The only patient with good functional outcome belonged to the IIC group. Comatose non‐convulsive SE (NCSE) without subtle motor phenomenon occurred in 20% of patients with definitive electrographic SE and outcome was similar to other types of SE.

Significance

Possible or definitive SE due to hypoxic brain injury is associated with poor prognosis. The outcome of patients with electrographic SE, electroclinical SE, and IIC did not differ significantly. Outcome was similar in patients with definitive electrographic SE with and without prominent motor features.
Dose response of transcranial near infrared light stimulation on brain functional connectivity and cognition in older adults—A randomized comparison
Authors: Joshi Himanshu , Sinha Preeti , Bowers Dawn , John John P.
Published: September 2023

Photobiomodulation, also called low‐level light therapy, has been reported in animal studies to have an effect on brain activity and cognition. However, studies in humans regarding its effect on cognition and brain functional connectivity, and the required dose threshold for achieving the same have been very limited. We compared the effects of different doses of photobiomodulation (PBM) on cognition and resting state brain functional connectivity in 25 cognitively normal adults aged 55–70 years. They were randomized to a single session of the sham group, “low‐dose” and “high‐dose” groups receiving NIR light with transcranial fluence of 26 and 52 J/cm2 respectively, and intranasal fluence of 9 and 18 J/cm2 respectively. There was a significant increase in resting state functional connectivity of the left superior frontal gyrus (SFG) with the left planum temporale (PT), p = 0.0016, and with the left inferior frontal gyrus, pars triangularis, p = 0.0235 in the “high‐dose” group only compared to the “sham” group. There was also a significant improvement in visual search and processing speed (p = 0.012) in the “high‐dose” group. Replication of these findings in an adequately powered randomized sham‐controlled study in healthy older adults can pave the way for clinical application of NIRL as a therapeutic modality in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Self‐regulatory control processes in youths: A temporal network analysis approach
Authors: Turri Fiorella , Jones Andrew , Constanty Lauriane , Ranjbar Setareh , Drexl Konstantin , Miano Giorgia , Lepage Caroline , Plessen Kerstin Jessica , Urben Sébastien
Published: September 2023

Objective

This study aimed to better understand the temporal interrelationships among self‐control, response inhibition, and anger (i.e., momentary state and rumination) on both the within‐ and between‐person levels in male adolescents.

Method

We applied temporal network analyses among 62 male adolescents with a wide range of behavioral difficulties. Self‐control, momentary anger, and anger rumination were mapped by self‐report measures, whereas we measured response inhibition through an ambulatory Go/No‐go task (two measures a day—morning and afternoon—over a 9‐day period).

Results

Temporal network analysis, at the within‐person level, revealed that morning measures of response inhibition, anger rumination, and self‐control were related to the corresponding measure in the afternoon. More efficient response inhibition in the morning was associated with higher self‐control in the afternoon. Higher anger rumination in the morning led to higher momentary anger in the afternoon. In a concurrent within‐person network, higher momentary anger was reciprocally associated with lower self‐control. At the between‐person level, higher momentary anger was correlated to higher anger rumination, lower response inhibition, and lower self‐control.

Discussion

This study provides insight into the dynamic interactions among self‐control, response inhibition, and anger (momentary state and rumination) in male adolescents, advancing the understanding of self‐regulatory control functioning.
Perceptions of the dental education‐wide climate: Analysis of the 2022 ADEA climate study focus groups
Authors: Escontrías Omar A. , Escontrías Gabriel , West Karen P.
Published: September 2023

Objective

Climate assessments in higher and postsecondary education institutions are essential in landscaping inclusiveness and belonging for students, faculty, and staff. Although some climate assessments in dental education have been conducted either as part of their own campus or parent university climate assessment, a dental education‐wide climate study has not been conducted across dental schools and allied dental education programs in the United States and Canada.

Methods

As integral part of the 2022 ADEA Climate Survey in Dental Education, focus groups were conducted from March to April 2022 to ascertain the perceptions of students, faculty, and staff in dental education. A phenomenological study on 85 focus group participants comprised of students, faculty, and staff at U.S. and Canadian dental schools and allied dental education programs was conducted. Thematic analyses were structured on four overarching categories: (1) belonging, (2). bias, (3) challenges and barriers, and (4) future recommendations.

Results

Several themes emerged across all groups. The lack of inclusion and belonging on campuses, deficit of faculty of color, microaggressions and differential treatment of students of color, and the need to enhance recruitment of diverse students and faculty of color were among themes identified. Exclusive to U.S. allied dental education programs, exposure to unique community and clinical opportunities for students was identified as an important theme to enhance diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB).

Conclusion

The first‐ever dental education‐wide climate study exposes the need to undertake this initiative in academic dentistry. The ongoing challenges unveiled in this study offer an opportunity to identify solutions that are meaningful, inclusive, impactful, and that foster humanistic learning environments for students, faculty, and staff in dental education.
Spatial and temporal characteristics of past droughts in New Brunswick (1971–2020)
Authors: Poirier Charlotte , Fortin Guillaume , Dubreuil Vincent
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to provide a historical picture from 1971 to 2020 of the state of droughts in New Brunswick (NB). More specifically, we wished to determine whether there were statistically significant trends using two drought indices: the Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) and the Standardized Precipitation‐Evapotranspiration Index (SPEI). Monthly precipitation (rain and snow) and average maximum and minimum temperatures were obtained from 10 stations located in New Brunswick. Then, we applied Mann–Kendall and Sen's Slope's nonparametric tests to these two indices at a 1‐, 3‐, 6‐ and 12‐month timescale. The results have shown that the average value for the SPI and SPEI evolution throughout the study period indicated a decrease in indices values (at 95% confidence level). The temporal evolution of the SPI and SPEI were similar at various timescales regarding severities and intensities. However, there were still slight differences in the fluctuation values, especially during the last 20 years of the study period. At a 12‐month timescale, both indices indicated the driest years as being 2020, 2001 and 2004. The SPEI Miramichi, Saint John and Moncton stations had maximum negative MK values (−0.259, −0.221 and −0.215), respectively. As for spatial distribution, four stations located in the south stood out with the highest increase in dry conditions and significantly negative trends (meaning increased drought in this case). Stations in the northern part of the province (Bathurst and Charlo) show non‐significant trends. This study suggests a slight drought increase trend exists in New Brunswick, while an increase in annual precipitation is expected between 42 and 324 mm by 2100 according to climate scenario RCP8.5 of CMIP6.
Investigating the potential of wine lees as a natural colorant and functional ingredient in jelly production
Authors: Gümüş Tuncay , Altan Kamer Deniz Damla , Kaynarca Gülce Bedis
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the potential of incorporating wine lees (WL), an inexpensive and widely available high‐value winery waste product, into gelatin‐based jellies to improve their technological and functional properties. We also aimed to evaluate the suitability of WL as a jelly colorant by comparing it with a commercial colorant.

RESULTS

Wine lees were characterized for their anthocyanin, phenolic, antioxidant, and mineral content. Subsequently, physicochemical, functional, textural, rheological, and thermal analyses were conducted on soft candies containing 21, 14, and 7 g kg−1 WL (labeled as WL30, WL20, and WL10, respectively). The total phenolic, anthocyanin, antioxidant, and cupric‐reducing antioxidant capacity (CUPRAC) values of WL30 were determined as 57.80 ± 6.12 mg gallic acid equivalent per kilogram (GAE kg−1), 17.58 ± 0.36 mg malvidin‐3‐glucoside equivalent kg−1, 0.04 ± 0.01 μg mL−1, and 45.55 ± 1.00 mmol L−1 Trolox equivalent (TE), respectively. The control sample had the best rheological characteristics, including K′, G', and n*, as well as the greatest hardness value, followed by WL30. However, during the storage period, WL30 exhibited superior color stability and retained higher levels of phenolic and anthocyanin components in comparison with the control sample.

CONCLUSION

Wine lees have the potential to be utilized as a natural colorant and alternative flavoring agent in jelly production. © 2023 The Authors. Journal of The Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Minority stress and mental health in lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer survivors of sexual assault
Authors: Bedford Carter E. , Trotter Aoife M. , Potter Miracle , Schmidt Norman B.
Published: September 2023

Extant research has shown that sexual violence disproportionately affects lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (LGBTQ+) individuals, conferring risk for the development of posttraumatic stress symptoms (PTSS) and related mental health conditions. However, little research has focused on specific vulnerabilities among LGBTQ+‐identified sexual assault (SA) survivors (e.g., minority stress) and their associations with post‐SA psychopathology. To address this gap, we examined associations between experiences of minority stress and post‐SA psychopathology in a sample of LGBTQ+ individuals who experienced SA (N = 92) and completed a battery of self‐report measures. Results revealed significant differences in internalized stigma, community connectedness, alcohol use, and cannabis use across sexual orientation and gender modality groups, ηp2 = .08–11. Additionally, regression analyses indicated that experiences of violence and victimization were significantly associated with higher PTSS, β = .31, p = .020; anxiety, β = .39, p = .003; and alcohol use severity, β = .31, p = .027, over and above other experiences of minority stress and psychopathology risk factors. Internalized stigma was significantly associated with cannabis use severity, β =.34, p = .011. Finally, community connectedness was significantly associated with lower anxiety symptom severity, β = −.42, p = .001. Although longitudinal work is needed, findings indicate that experiences of minority stress may serve as risk or maintenance factors for post‐SA psychopathology. These results offer important considerations for future treatment approaches tailored to LGBTQ+ survivors of SA.
Sialendoscopy Findings Associated with Positive Minor Salivary Gland Biopsy
Authors: Bertram Jessica , Nieri Chad , Reed Leighton , Gillespie M. Boyd
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To determine the sialendoscopy findings associated with positive findings on minor salivary gland biopsy.

Study Design

Single‐center retrospective study.

Methods

Patients ≥18 years old who underwent sialendoscopy from 2016 to 2022 and were evaluated for SS via labial minor salivary gland biopsy. Biopsy positive and negative patients were compared on the primary outcome measure of sialendoscopy findings. Data were abstracted from the sialendoscopy operative notes and included involved gland, location of ductal pathology, and the presence of scarring, stenosis, mucus plugs, webs, and dilations. Additional characteristics included demographics, presenting symptoms, caffeine or tobacco, use of drying medications, and need for additional treatments.

Results

The final cohorts included 22 biopsy positive and 21 biopsy negative patients with a total of 42 glands in the biopsy positive and 37 glands in the biopsy negative groups. Biopsy positive patients were found to require dilation at the hilum and distal duct at significantly higher rates than biopsy negative patients (p < 0.0001). However, there was no statistical difference in scarring, stenosis severity, mucus, webs, or dilations between each group.

Conclusion

The outcomes of this study suggest that there are no distinct sialendoscopy findings associated with biopsy positive patients. The presence of significant distal stenosis on sialendoscopy may be associated with positive minor salivary biopsy. Other endoscopic parameters are likely more consistent with non‐specific chronic sialadenitis.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:1183–1189, 2024
Balloon Eustachian Tuboplasty—A Feasible Double‐Blinded Sham Surgery Randomized Clinical Trial Protocol to Study Efficacy
Authors: Laakso Juha T. , Oehlandt Heidi , Kivekäs Ilkka , Harju Teemu , Jero Jussi , Sinkkonen Saku T.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Balloon Eustachian tuboplasty (BET) is used to treat obstructive Eustachian tube dysfunction (OETD) and recurrent otitis media with effusion (OME). However, there are no indisputable evidence of its efficacy. Here, we present a multicenter, double‐blinded, randomized, placebo‐controlled trial (MDRCT) design to evaluate the efficacy of BET, and the results of a pilot trial with 3‐ and 12‐months' follow‐up.

Material and Methods

This was a prospective MDRCT. For a pilot study, OETD (n = 10) and OME (n = 5) patients were recruited and followed. Detailed inclusion and exclusion criteria were used. Participants were randomized at beginning of the operation to active or sham surgery. All procedures were performed under local anesthesia. Controls were performed in double‐blinded manner (both patient and physician), at 3 and 12 months after the procedure.

Results

Altogether, 20 ears were treated and followed for 12 months, including 14 active BETs and 6 sham surgeries. Both the active and sham surgery were performed under local anesthesia without problems or deviations from the protocol. There were no differences in the preoperative symptoms (ETDQ‐7) or objective measures (tympanometry, Valsalva and Toynbee maneuvers, tubomanometry, Eustachian tube score) between active and sham surgery arms. During follow‐up, we noticed largely similar reduction in subjective symptoms and improvement in Eustachian tube score both in active and sham surgery arms.

Conclusions

The pilot study demonstrates that our MDRCT protocol is feasible, and that blinded RCTs are dearly needed to objectively measure the efficacy of BET.

Level of Evidence

2 Laryngoscope, 134:1874–1881, 2024
A new index for the rapid generation of chlorophyll time series from hyperspectral imaging of sediment cores
Authors: Ghanbari Hamid , Zilkey David R. , Gregory‐Eaves Irene , Antoniades Dermot
Published: September 2023

Time series analyses of pigment concentrations are key to understanding past aquatic ecosystem dynamics. As lake sediments provide a window into longer‐term changes, innovative paleolimnological chlorophyll quantification could provide impactful insights into past environmental processes. Lab‐based hyperspectral imaging of sediment cores is an emerging technique to develop rapid, non‐destructive, high‐resolution chlorophyll inferences but it requires more extensive vetting. Despite recent advances in model development, there is still a knowledge gap about the reliability of chlorophyll models when applied in lakes with diverse properties, as well as the potential confounding effects of physical sediment properties on these models. We assessed the performance of 23 chlorophyll indices based on paired measurements collected via hyperspectral imaging and spectrophotometry for 202 samples spread across seven Canadian lake sediment cores. The best performance was by a new index based on the wavelength of the red‐edge minimum point (λREMP). We tested the applicability of λREMP to a broad range of sediment cores using a database of 116 cores, and found the index to provide reliable reconstructions of ƩChl (i.e., chlorophyll a and b and their degradation products) trends in 84% of sites. Further analyses indicated that sediment characteristics including particle size, organic matter content, water content, and density had no systematic impact on ƩChl, but greater sediment brightness did increase ƩChl inferences from hyperspectral images. Hyperspectral core scanning is poised to facilitate the generation of high‐resolution chlorophyll time series data, which could greatly improve our understanding of trajectories of change from the local to global scales.
Silicon Programmable Photonic Circuits Based on Periodic Bimodal Waveguides
Authors: Torrijos‐Morán Luis , Pérez‐Galacho Diego , Pérez‐López Daniel
Published: September 2023

Programmable photonic circuits are dense assemblies of waveguide meshes in which the flow of light can be reconfigured by software to implement a wide variety of functions, ranging from radiofrequency filtering to optical computing. However, most programmable architectures to date rely on rather bulky Mach‐Zehnder interferometers (MZIs), which are not suitable for large‐scale and high‐density integration. Here, an alternative approach to MZI‐based programmable photonic circuits by using slow‐light‐enhanced periodic bimodal waveguides (PBWs) as programmable units is presented. This study experimentally demonstrates low‐loss short tuning elements of 30× 1.7 µm2 in area, achieving a two‐orders of magnitude integration density improvement compared to conventional MZIs. A rectangular arrangement of these tunable units is proposed for 3× 3 and 4× 4 matrix multiplication operations to design a feedforward circuit with a footprint of only 100× 250 µm2. Finally, the performance trade‐off and benchmark with alternative programmable unit cells are analyzed in order to address the ever‐growing demand for large computing requirements in next‐generation applications such as artificial intelligence and quantum information processing.
Curli Amyloid Fibers in Escherichia coli Biofilms: The Influence of Water Availability on their Structure and Functional Properties
Authors: Siri Macarena , Mangiarotti Agustín , Vázquez‐Dávila Mónica , Bidan Cécile M.
Published: September 2023

Escherichia coli biofilms consist of bacteria embedded in a self‐produced matrix mainly made of protein fibers and polysaccharides. The curli amyloid fibers found in the biofilm matrix are promising versatile building blocks to design sustainable bio‐sourced materials. To exploit this potential, it is crucial to understand i) how environmental cues during biofilm growth influence the molecular structure of these amyloid fibers, and ii) how this translates at higher length scales. To explore these questions, the effect of water availability during biofilm growth on the conformation and functions of curli is studied. Microscopy and spectroscopy are used to characterize the amyloid fibers purified from biofilms grown on nutritive substrates with different water contents, and micro‐indentation to measure the rigidity of the respective biofilms. The purified curli amyloid fibers present differences in the yield, structure, and functional properties upon biofilm growth conditions. Fiber packing and β‐sheets content correlate with their hydrophobicity and chemical stability, and with the rigidity of the biofilms. This study highlights how E. coli biofilm growth conditions impact curli structure and functions contributing to macroscopic materials properties. These fundamental findings infer an alternative strategy to tune curli structure, which will ultimately benefit engineering hierarchical and functional curli‐based materials.
Consumers' responses to personalized service from medical artificial intelligence and human doctors
Authors: Zhang Yiran (Eileen) , Tan Wenying , Lee Eun‐Ju
Published: September 2023

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming healthcare, yet little is known about how consumers experience medical AI and make decisions about using these providers for follow‐up care. We take an interdisciplinary approach that combines behavioral and neuroimaging experiments to determine how anthropomorphism and personalization influence consumers' well‐being and their decisions about a provider for follow‐up care. Study 1 finds that, regardless of the type of medical provider used, consumers are likely to experience a heightened sense of well‐being after a highly personalized medical consultation. However, regardless of whether the first interaction is highly personalized or not, they prefer follow‐up visits with a human doctor, as mediated through empathy. Study 2 finds that, regardless of the type of medical provider used, the anterior cingulate cortex shows greater activation in a highly (vs. low) personalized interaction, the activation of which is also correlated with consumers' willingness to revisit that provider. Furthermore, the temporal occipital fusiform cortex shows greater activation in consultations with a human doctor (vs. medical AI), regardless of the interaction's level of personalization. The level of activation is also correlated with consumers' willingness to revisit with the initial provider. The findings suggest that medical AI cannot currently replace human doctors and that human doctors remain consumers' choice for medical consultations and treatment.