bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Luteimonas suaedae sp. nov., a novel bacterium isolated from rhizosphere of Suaeda aralocaspica (Bunge) Freitag & Schütze
Authors: Chen Shao-Qi , Wang Hong-Fei , Li Yong-Jia , Gao Rui , Xu Tian-Jiao , Ping Xiao-Rui , Song Jie-Qiong , Li Chang-Ping , Xiao Min , Li Qiu-Li , Li Wen-Jun
Published: October 2023

Light yellowish-white colonies of a bacterial strain, designated LNNU 24178T, were isolated from the rhizosphere soil of halophyte Suaeda aralocaspica (Bunge) Freitag and Schütze grown at Shihezi district, Xinjiang, PR China. Cells were Gram-stain-negative, non-flagellum-forming, rod-shaped and non-motile. The results of phylogenetic analysis based on the 16S rRNA gene sequence indicated that LNNU 24178T represented a member of the genus

Luteimonas

and shared the highest sequence similarity with

Luteimonas yindakuii

CGMCC 1.13927T (97.1 %) and lower sequence similarity (< 97.0 %) to other known species. The genomic DNA G+C content of LNNU 24178T was 68.8 %. The average nucleotide identity (ANI) values between LNNU 24178T and

Luteimonas yindakuii

CGMCC 1.13927T,

Luteimonas mephitis

DSM 12574T,

Luteimonas arsenica

26-35T and

Luteimonas huabeiensis

HB2T were 78.7, 78.6, 78.4 and 80.0 %, respectively. The digital DNA–DNA hybridisation (dDDH) values between LNNU 24178T and

L. yindakuii

CGMCC 1.13927T,

L. mephitis

DSM 12574T,

L. arsenica

26-35T and

L. huabeiensis

HB2T were 22.0, 22.3, 22.2 and 23.5 %, respectively. The respiratory quinone detected in LNNU 24178T was ubiquinone-8 (Q-8). The major fatty acids (> 5.0 %) of LNNU 24178T were identified as iso-C15 : 0 (33.9 %), iso-C17 : 0 (8.7 %), iso-C11 : 0 (6.2 %), iso-C16 : 0 (5.7 %), C16 : 0 (5.3 %) and summed feature 9 (iso-C17 : 1ω9c/10-methyl C16 : 0) (21.1 %). The major polar lipids of LNNU 24178T were diphosphatidylglycerol (DPG), phosphatidylglycerol (PG), phosphatidylethanolamine (PE), one unidentified phospholipid (PL), one unidentified glycolipid (GL) and three unidentified lipids. According to the data obtained from phenotypic, chemotaxonomic and phylogenetic analyses, strain LNNU 24178T represents a novel species of the genus

Luteimonas

, for which the name Luteimonas suaedae sp. nov. is proposed, with LNNU 24178T (= CGMCC 1.17331T= KCTC 62251T) as the type strain.
New insights into tissue-specific responses and interactive characteristics of crop-microbe “One Health” system to soil chromium and ofloxacin pollution
Authors: Xu Jia-Min , Zhang Yaru , Wang Kai , Zhang Guodong , Liu Ying , Xu Hao-Ran , Zi Hu-Yi , Wang Ai-Jie , Cheng Hao-Yi , Lv Yao , Xu Kun
Published: October 2023

This study firstly investigated the tissue-specific responses and interactive characteristics of the crop-microbe system to co-pollution with ofloxacin (OFL) and chromium (Cr) in soil. The results emphasized the hormesis effect induced by low-dose OFL (1 mg L-1) on ginger plants subjected to soil Cr stress. However, high-dose OFL (100 mg L-1) and Cr co-stressed plants exhibited reduced growth, root activity, antioxidant enzyme activities and photosynthesis-fluorescence performances, while the reactive oxygen species (ROS) reflected by O2·-and H2O2significantly increased up to 43.34% and 78.63%, respectively, compared to other treatments. In addition, high-throughput sequencing indicated that OFL influenced rhizosphere microbial diversity, composition, and evolution, favoringProteobacteriaproliferation under co-pollution. Meanwhile, root exudate patterns shifted, with humic-like exudates, potentially interacting with pollutants and microbes. Notably, enrichments of antibiotic resistance gene (qnrS) in edible rhizome and potential pathogenic bacteria in ginger rhizosphere were observed under OFL and Cr co-pollution, raising environmental and food chain concerns. Through structural equation modeling, we quantitatively established correlations within soil-crop-microbe factors, emphasizing their interconnected nature. Overall, this study sheds light on the complex responses of the crop-microbe system to OFL and Cr co-pollution, highlighting the importance of understanding pollutant interactions for enhancing plant resilience and mitigating environmental risks.

Highlights

Revealed a hormesis from low-dose OFL on Cr-polluted ginger, enhancing resilience.

Rhizosphere microbial composition shift under co-pollution, favoring Proteobacteria.

qnrS and potential pathogens increased under co-pollution, posing food chain risks.

Structural equation modeling quantified correlations in soil- crop-microbe factors.

Clarified crop-microbe “One Health” interactions’ role under Cr & OFL co-pollution.

Graphical abstract
Ependymocytes control cerebrospinal fluid flow to the peripheral organs through periaxonal pathway
Authors: Li Xinyu , Wang Siman , Zhang Dianjun , Feng Yuliang , Liu Yingyu , Yu Weiyang , Li Shu , Cui Lulu , Harkany Tibor , Verkhratsky Alexei , Xia Maosheng , Li Baoman
Published: October 2023

Mechanisms controlling movement of the CSF through the central canal towards the peripheral nerves are poorly characterized. We found that fluorescent dyes injected into cisterna magna are carried with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) through the central canal and peripheral nerves to the peripheral organs such as liver, and pancreas. We also found close connection between spinal axons and ependymocytes, suggesting synaptic interactions. Serotonin, acting through the 5-HT2Breceptors abundantly expressed in ependymal cells, trigger Ca2+signal that induces polymerization of cytoskeleton protein F-actin, consequently reducing the volume of ependymocytes. Shrinkage of the latter opens one-way route to facilitate CSF outflow from the central canal into the spinal cord parenchyma and peripheral nerves. In liver, CSF is received by stellate cells. Ependymal control over transfer of the CSF from central canal to peripheral organs by the periaxonal space (PAS) represents a novel mechanism dynamically connecting the CNS with the periphery.

In brief

Ependymocytes control CSF flow from CNS to peripheral organs by periaxonal pathway, and serotonin evokes the ependymal shrinkage by the aggregation of F-actin.

Highlights

Ependymocytes control CSF flow from central canal to peripheral organs; CSF flows through the peripheral periaxonal space to reach the peripheral organs; Serotonin makes ependymocytes shrunk by 5-HT2Breceptor-mediated Ca2+signaling and F-actin polymerization; The hepatic stellate cells are potential collectors of CSF in the liver.
Business environment and productivity in Africa: macro evidence
Authors: Haruna Issahaku , Ackah Charles Godfred
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Africa's business environment (BE) is characteristically unfriendly and poses severe development challenges. This study evaluates the impact of business climate on productivity in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA).

Design/methodology/approach

Macroeconomic data for 51 sub-Saharan African economies from 1990 to 2018 are employed for the analysis. The seemingly unrelated regression model is used to address inter-sectorial linkages.

Findings

The study uncovers several findings. First, a high start-up cost substantially leads to productivity losses by limiting the funds available for investment in productivity-enhancing labour and technology and limiting the number of businesses that see the light of day. The productivity impacts of start-up costs are most enormous for industry, followed by services and agriculture. Second, economies with favourable financing environments tend to be more productive economy wide and sector wise. Third, high taxes and tax inefficiency lower productivity by reducing the resource envelope of firms, thus lowering investment amounts. Fourth, poor business infrastructure inflicts the most damage on productivity. Lastly, business administration and macroeconomic environments impact sectoral and economy-wide productivity.

Practical implications

SSA economies must strive to lower the cost of starting a business as high start-up costs injure productivity. One way of reducing start-up costs is to create a one-stop shop for registering and formalising a business. Another way is to automate business registration and administrative processes to reduce red tape and corruption.

Originality/value

The authors extend the body of knowledge by analysing sectoral and economy-wide productivity effects of various business climate indicators while accounting for inter-sectoral linkages, cross-sectional dependence and endogeneity.
Resource orchestration capability for innovation: towards an empirically validated measurement framework
Authors: Tikas Gaurav Dilip
Published: October 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to conceptualize, define and measure resource orchestration capabilities of R&D teams pursuing advanced scientific research and technological innovation at public-funded R&D organizations in India.

Design/methodology/approach

A series of five mutually exclusive studies were designed over two years to develop and validate the ROCI scale within public research and development (R&D) organizations pursuing advanced scientific research and technological development in India. The first three studies address the refinement, reduction and rationalization of items for measuring the ROCI construct. The next study explores the factor structure underlying the ROCI construct whereas the subsequent one confirms the three-factor structure within empirical settings.

Findings

The resource orchestration capability towards innovation (ROCI) construct reflected through three sub-dimensions namely – adaptive structuring capability (ASC), synergistic leveraging capability (SLC) and decentralized decision-making capability (DDC), each loaded with their respective items can be used for capability measurement in public-funded R&D organizations.

Practical implications

R&D managers can use this ROCI scale to measure, monitor and improve the innovation-oriented resource orchestration capabilities of their R&D teams and help them improve their innovation performance.

Originality/value

This research contributes to the extant literature on resource orchestration for innovation management in three unique and original ways – theoretically-grounded conceptualization, empirical measurement and rigorous validation through multiple studies conducted in public-funded R&D organizations in India.
Organizational theory – a three-dimensional tool to analyze and enhance collaboration in healthcare systems
Authors: Kaundinya Kiran Bharatam
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Healthcare systems receive criticism from both providers and recipients. The diversity in these systems throughout the world makes innovation and change difficult. However, a structured analysis of healthcare systems is crucial to identify areas for improvement and to share best practices for the betterment of healthcare throughout the world.

Design/methodology/approach

The paper uses organizational theory as an unbiased tool for evaluating healthcare systems. This theory analyses healthcare systems across five dimensions: environment, culture, social structure, physical structure and technology. This analysis provides an in-depth understanding of the organization's surroundings, formation and function. It offers a lens through which healthcare systems can be envisioned and establishes a vocabulary for communication.

Findings

Organizational theory presents a multifaceted approach to initiate assessments aiming to enhance existing healthcare systems and customize them to serve all stakeholders within the focused ecosystem. It alters the dynamics of criticism and presents an opportunity to sustainably address unforeseen healthcare challenges in the future. As the author proceeds to understand healthcare organizations through the perspective of organizational theory, the author also uncovers subtle yet crucial issues such as resource dependence, cultural clashes, organizational silence, bureaucracy, hierarchy, ethics, values, engagement and burnout.

Originality/value

This paper was crafted from a collaborative paper for the final of a master's degree. A collaboration was conceptualized using organisation theory as the tool to align processes and achieve successful outcome. The narrative of the collaboration has been edited and paper presented highlighting the importance of the tool of organisation theory in healthcare systems.
Conservation agriculture‐based sustainable intensification improves technical efficiency in Northern Bangladesh: The case of Rangpur
Authors: Paz Bruno , Hailu Atakelty , Rola‐Rubzen Maria Fay , Rashid Md Mamunur
Published: October 2023

The dissemination of conservation agriculture (CA) technologies has become the objective of a growing number of projects aimed at reducing food insecurity in vulnerable areas of the world. While many studies have found that CA increases farm productivity, little is known about the components of the productivity gains related to CA adoption. CA is a knowledge‐intensive technology, and it is expected to affect both technical efficiency (TE) and input productivity positively. Using cross‐sectional farm‐level data of 220 maize farmers in Bangladesh, we measure the impact of CA on farmers' TE. We first apply propensity score matching (PSM) to create comparable counterfactual groups of CA and non‐CA farmers. Then, we use a stochastic frontier with correction for self‐selection bias to analyse TE. Finally, we fit a stochastic meta‐frontier (SMF) model to the data and use it to compare TE across the two farmer groups. The analysis showed that CA farmers exhibit greater TE levels than non‐CA farmers. This can be attributed to enhancements in farm management, leading to 8% and 9% increases in their productivity and TE, respectively. Thus, there is a case for policymakers to strengthen programs delivering CA technologies that improve food security in Bangladesh.
Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) rind flour: Development and characterization of a novel watermelon byproduct
Authors: Pires Caroline Abreu , de Oliveira Cavalcante Letícia São Paulo , de Carvalho Allan Alexandre Martins , de Siqueira Paula Azevedo , dos Santos Guilherme Vargas , de Paiva Anciens Ramos Gustavo Luis , Matoso Souto Renata Nascimento , de Barros Pinto Moreira Rodrigo Vilela , Teodoro Anderson Junger , Conte Junior Carlos Adam , Cadena Rafael , Domingues Josiane Roberto
Published: October 2023

Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) is a fruit widely consumed by the Brazilian population; however, its rind is usually discarded, despite its nutritional value. This work aimed to develop a watermelon rind flour (WRF) and a fiber‐rich bread. The WRF was submitted to microbiological analysis, proximate composition, antioxidant activity, and a profile of phenolic compounds. Six types of bread were developed: three using WRF (20%, 30%, and 40% of wheat flour replacement) and three control samples (only wheat flour), which were submitted to the same analysis, in addition to colorimetric properties, instrumental texture profile, and sensory evaluation (check‐all‐that‐apply, purchase intent, and acceptance test). A high fiber content was observed in WRF (27.15%). The total concentration of phenolic compounds was 2.38 ± 0.20 mg of gallic acid equivalent per g and benzoic acid was the main compound found (73.50 mg/100 g WRF). The results of the antioxidant capacity through the DPPH method indicated a 30% reduction. The WRF 40% bread had 3.06 g of insoluble fiber, characterizing itself as a source of fiber. In the instrumental texture analysis, it was observed that bread hardness increased significantly as the WRF content increased. The formulation of the bread containing WRF is an alternative for the use of waste, favoring the development of a fiber‐source product, with a functional food claim.
Thrombotic microangiopathy in a patient with anti‐signal recognition particle antibody‐positive immune‐mediated necrotizing myopathy
Authors: Sakai Kenji , Takahashi Megumi , Ito Yumi , Yamada Shota , Ito Toru , Higuchi Yo , Kameda Shigemi
Published: October 2023

We describe the case of a 61‐year‐old woman with anti‐signal recognition particle (SRP) antibody‐positive immune‐mediated necrotizing myopathy (IMNM) who exhibited biopsy‐confirmed thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA). The patient developed proximal‐dominant muscle weakness and was diagnosed with anti‐SRP antibody‐positive IMNM based on muscle biopsy results and serological examination. A high‐dose corticosteroid prescription was initiated, followed by intravenous methylprednisolone and intravenous immunoglobulin therapy (IVIg). The patient showed IVIg‐induced hemolytic anemia with preserved ADAMTS13 activity. Transient oral tacrolimus administration was initiated. Approximately 8 weeks after admission, the serum creatinine levels gradually increased. Renal histological examination revealed TMA, including ischemic changes in the renal tubules, stenosis, and occlusion of the interlobular arteries with fibrinoid necrosis of the afferent arteriolar walls. The arteriolar walls demonstrated an accumulation of C1q and C3c. Myofiber damage in patients with IMNM accounts for the activation of the classical pathway of the complement cascade in the sarcolemma due to antibody deposition. Additionally, a membrane attack complex is observed on capillaries in the muscle tissues of patients with anti‐SRP antibody‐positive IMNM. Although drug‐induced pathomechanisms, such as IVIg and tacrolimus, can trigger the development of TMA, we suggest that the presence of serum anti‐SRP antibodies would be implicated in complement‐associated kidney vascular damage.
Editorial: Time to consider early treatment for chronic hepatitis B in both children and adults—authors' reply
Authors: Wu Xiaoli , Peng Songxu
Published: October 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Wu et al papers. To view these articles, visithttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17667andhttps://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17679
Letter: Detecting unreported alcohol consumption in patients with NAFLD — Standardisation is urgent. Authors' reply
Authors: Lefere Sander , Geerts Anja
Published: October 2023

LINKED CONTENT

This article is linked to Magherman et al papers. To view these articles, visit https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17388 and https://doi.org/10.1111/apt.17723
Adhesive organs with complex neuromuscular system: Organization of rhopalioids in Haliclystus auricula James‐Clark, 1863 (Cnidaria: Staurozoa)
Authors: Domracheva Maria , Khabibulina Valeriia
Published: October 2023

Staurozoa is a small group of marine stalked jellyfish, some of which have specialized attachment organs — rhopalioids, or so‐called anchors. The adhesive function of these organs was mentioned in numerous studies; however, the mechanism of their temporary attachment is still unknown. Moreover, it is assumed that rhopalioids may be homologous to rhopalia of scypho‐ and cubozoans and provide sensory and integrative functions. Nevertheless, nervous elements associated with rhopalioids are poorly investigated. Thus, we focused on morphological features of rhopalioids in staurozoan Haliclystus auricula James‐Clark, 1863 using histological and semithin sections, and also confocal laser scanning microscopy. We described histological organization of rhopalioids and observed four types of epidermal gland cell, which presumably provide the attachment and reattachment to the substrate. Supposedly, the musculature of rhopalioids can also play a role in the attachment and reattachment. We have studied organization of the nervous system in rhopalioids, which includes FMRFamide‐, tubulin‐ and neurotensin‐positive nerve clusters and FMRFamide‐positive presumptive sensory cells. Based on our results, we assume that rhopalioids, besides the complex attachment, may act like sensory organs and play a role of integrative centres.
The role of glycated hemoglobin in the diagnosis of prediabetes and diabetes mellitus in young women with polycystic ovary syndrome
Authors: Melo Raissa Holanda , Pontes Ana Gabriela , Delmanto Lucia Regina Marques Gomes , Bueloni‐Dias Flavia Neves , Vespoli Heloisa De Luca , Nahas Eliana Aguiar Petri
Published: October 2023

Objective

To compare glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c) and the oral glucose tolerance test (OGTT) for the diagnosis of prediabetes and diabetes in young women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Patients and Design

This cross‐sectional study included 154 women aged 20–40 years with a diagnosis of PCOS, who were screened for prediabetes and diabetes by the OGTT and HbA1c. Women with diabetes, hyperprolactinemia, thyroid or adrenal diseases, and anemia and users of hormonal contraception or corticosteroids were excluded.

Measurements

Clinical, biochemical and ultrasound data were collected from the electronic medical records. The women were classified as having normal glucose metabolism, prediabetes, or diabetes based on the diagnostic tests. Sensitivity and specificity were calculated and the Kappa method was used to assess agreement between the two methods.

Results

According to the OGTT and HbA1c values, 79.2% and 76% of the women were within the normal range, respectively, 16.8% and 19.5% had prediabetes, and 4% and 4.5% had diabetes (p > .05). The Kappa coefficient of 0.41 (95% confidence interval: 0.24–0.58) indicated medium agreement between methods. Considering the OGTT as the gold standard, the specificity of HbA1c was 89.5% and sensitivity was 85.7% in the diagnosis of prediabetes and 100% and 66.7%, respectively, in the diagnosis of diabetes.

Conclusion

The HbA1c, when compared to the OGTT, showed high sensitivity and specificity in the diagnosis of prediabetes in young women with PCOS.
A Survey of Procedural Modelling Methods for Layout Generation of Virtual Scenes
Authors: Cogo Emir , Krupalija Ehlimana , Prazina Irfan , Bećirović Šeila , Okanović Vensada , Rizvić Selma , Mulahasanović Razija Turčinhodžić
Published: October 2023

As virtual worlds continue to rise in popularity, so do the expectations of users for the content of virtual scenes. Virtual worlds must be large in scope and offer enough freedom of movement to keep the audience occupied at all times. For content creators, it is difficult to keep up by manually producing the surrounding content. Therefore, the application of procedural modelling techniques is required. Virtual worlds often mimic the real world, which is composed of organized and connected outdoor and indoor layouts. It is expected that all content is present on the virtual scene and that a user can navigate streets, enter buildings, and interact with furniture within a single virtual world. While there are many procedural methods for generating different layout types, they mostly focus only on one layout type, whereas complete scene generation is greatly underrepresented. This paper aims to identify the coverage of layout types by different methods because similar issues exist for the generation of content of different layout types. When creating a new method for layout generation, it is important to know if the results of existing methods can be appended to other methods. This paper presents a survey of existing procedural modelling methods, which were organized into five categories based on the core approach: pure subdivision, grammar‐based, data‐driven, optimization, and simulation. Information about the covered layout types, the possibility of user interaction during the generation process, and the input and output shape types of the generated content is provided for each surveyed method. The input and output shape types of the generated content can be useful to identify which methods can continue the generation by using the output of other methods as their input. It was concluded that all surveyed methods work for only a few different layout types simultaneously. Moreover, only 35% of the surveyed methods offer interaction with the user after completing the initial process of space generation. Most existing approaches do not perform transformations of shape types. A significant number of methods use the irregular shape type as input and generate the same shape type as the output, which is sufficient for coverage of all layout types when generating a complete virtual world.
Underwater endoscopic submucosal dissection using a tapered hood with air bubble outlets for a subcircumferential duodenal tumor
Authors: Nagata Mitsuru
Published: October 2023

Watch a video of this article.
Effects of continuous glucose monitoring on glycaemic control in type 2 diabetes: A systematic review and network meta‐analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Lu Jiaping , Ying Zhen , Wang Ping , Fu Minjie , Han Chenyu , Zhang Min
Published: October 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to assess the efficacy of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) versus self‐monitoring of blood glucose (SMBG) in maintaining glycaemic control among people with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM).

Materials and Methods

The protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023387583). PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE and OVID databases were searched from 1 January 2000 until 31 December 2022 for randomized controlled trials comparing CGM with SMBG in glycaemic control among the outpatients with T2DM. The primary endpoint was glycated haemoglobin, while the secondary endpoints included time in range, time below range and time above range. Both traditional and network meta‐analyses were conducted to explore the efficacy of CGM on glycaemic control in T2DM.

Results

Eleven high‐quality studies, involving 1425 individuals with T2DM, were identified. Traditional meta‐analysis revealed that CGM exhibited a significantly decreased [mean difference (MD): −0.31, 95% confidence interval (CI) (−0.45, −0.18)], time above range [MD: −9.06%, 95% CI (−16.00, −2.11)], time below range [MD: −0.30%, 95% CI (−0.49, −0.12)] and a significantly increased time in range [MD: 8.49%, 95% CI (3.96, 13.02)] compared with SMBG. The network meta‐analysis showed that real‐time CGM can improve the glycaemic control of patients with T2DM to the most extent.

Conclusions

CGM could provide T2DM with greater benefits in glycaemic management compared with SMBG, particularly in patients using real‐time CGM. These findings provide an updated perspective on previous research and offer guidance for CGM use in T2DM.
Igniting a movement in a dual‐licensed dental workforce: The Minnesota model
Authors: Brickle Colleen M. , Jacobi Deborah A. , Larkin Clare E.
Published: October 2023

Aims

Increased awareness of oral health disparities in the United States has highlighted the need to expand the workforce and access to both primary and preventive dental care. Achieving the goal of oral health equity will require dental team members with appropriate clinical skills dedicated to reaching historically marginalized populations through intra‐ and interprofessional practice.

Materials and Methods

Collective efforts by healthcare advocates in Minnesota led to legislation that created a dental hygiene‐based workforce model inspired by the vision and foresight of the American Dental Hygienists' Association's ‘Advanced Dental Hygiene Practitioner’.

Results

In July 2023, there were 141 licensed dental therapists and 99 certified advanced dental therapists, the majority dually licensed as dental hygienists/dental therapists, providing primary care services in a variety of settings throughout the state. Current data confirm the contributions of this workforce model to increasing access to primary oral health care for Minnesotans across the lifespan.

Conclusions

While challenges remain, new opportunities are emerging for dual‐licensed dental hygienists/dental therapists to reach intended populations. Minnesota's challenges and successes with the authorization and implementation of a dental hygiene‐based workforce model can serve to assist others in developing their own intra‐ and interprofessional oral health care practitioners.
Long‐pulsed 1,064‐nm gallium arsenide laser surgical device treatment for improving symptoms of onychomycosis: a comparative analysis
Authors: Choi Sun Young , Shin Sun Hye , Seok Joon , Ko Eun Jung , Yoo Kwang Ho , Kim Beom Joon
Published: October 2023

Background

Onychomycosis is the most common infective nail disease, and treatment includes topical and systemic antifungal medications. Recently, laser therapy has emerged as a therapeutic option for patients who are unable to take oral antifungal agents. We investigated the effectiveness and safety of a novel long‐pulsed 1,064‐nm gallium arsenide (GaAs) laser surgical device for onychomycosis.

Methods

This 24‐week single‐center, single‐blind, active‐controlled exploratory clinical study comparatively evaluated the long‐pulsed 1,064‐nm GaAs laser (Healer1064) with the short‐pulsed Nd:YAG laser surgical device in 20 participants randomly assigned to receive either test or control treatment at 4‐week intervals during the 12‐week treatment period. The rate of clinical improvement was evaluated by two independent dermatologist evaluators using the Onychomycosis Severity Index‐score (OSI‐score) and Turbidity Scale with standard photographs. Overall improvement and patient satisfaction were evaluated. Safety evaluation included pain intensity and adverse events.

Results

In 44 (test: 25; control: 19) cases in 19 participants who completed treatment, the clinical improvement rate in the test and control groups was 52.00% (13/52 cases) and 44.44% (9/19 cases), respectively, with significantly lower pain scores in the test than the control group for every treatment visit (P < 0.05) and without severe adverse events.

Conclusions

The novel long‐pulsed 1,064‐nm GaAs laser showed greater, albeit nonsignificant, clinical improvement and was associated with less pain during treatment. Thus, the Healer1064 can provide satisfactory treatment outcomes through painless and effective improvement in onychomycosis symptoms.
Effect of intramedullary nail fixation and internal plate fixation in distal tibia fracture surgery on post‐operative wound infection in patients: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Lv Changli , Jiang Cuifeng , Lv Weifeng , Zhang Shanshan , Li Chengxue
Published: October 2023

Distal tibial fracture is the most commonly seen type of fracture of the lower extremities. Both intramedullary nail fixation (INF) and plate fixation (PF) have been used to treat distal tibial fractures, but the best way to treat them is still in dispute. The purpose of this meta‐analysis is to compare INF versus PF fixation with respect to the incidence of injury. For studies that have been published between inception and June 2023, a systematic review has been carried out on PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library and Web of Scientific databases. All of the trials that looked at INF and PF‐related complications were enrolled. Data from the 13 primary results were analysed with RevMan 5.3. The meta‐analyses comprised 13 randomized controlled trials (RCTs). INF indicates that there is a tendency for patients with distal tibia fractures to reduce the risk of operative site infection (odds ratio [OR], 2.09; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.40, 3.13; p = 0.0003) after surgery compared with PF. INF resulted in a reduction in total wound complications (OR, 14.20; 95% CI, 1.81, 111.57; p = 0.01) but shortened operation time (mean difference, 13.03; 95% CI, 2.08, 23.99; p = 0.02). In view of these findings, INF seems to be a preferred method of surgery for the treatment of distal tibial fractures with respect to the reduction of post‐operative wound complications.
Opening Up Opportunities: Trainee Teachers Experiences of Teaching Pupils with Visual Impairment
Authors: Dunn Harriet
Published: October 2023

Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) secondary art and design trainees facilitated an art education project for pupils at a specialist school for visual impairment (VI) in the Northwest of England. This paper focuses on the ways in which the art education project was designed to better prepare PGCE trainees for working with pupils with VI. There is an exploration of a series of reflections at the end of the art education project and again upon completion of the PGCE course. Feedback provided by PGCE trainees indicated the ways they were able to transfer the skills learnt regarding teaching pupils with VI into practice, as they embark upon their careers. Existing literature highlights variation across initial teacher training (ITT) in relation to what is taught regarding special educational needs, this is generally due to time constraints on one year ITT courses. The findings indicate these experiences have implications for practice. through following their journey, initially PGCE trainees were apprehensive about working with pupils with VI. However, facilitating the art education project enabled PGCE trainees to become more confident working with pupils. PGCE trainees were able to develop as teachers.
Friction and Failure in the Secondary Art Classroom: Cultivating Decolonial Transformative Pedagogies of Hope
Authors: Stanhope Clare
Published: October 2023

This article explores how the colonisation of womens bodies, as perpetuated through the art trope of the female nude, has constructed a specific bodily ideal that still resonates and informs how we view women's bodies in contemporary life. I address how the same narratives that restrict our understanding of the female body, also restrict our understanding of drawing. I share part of my PhD practice research: PhEminist Skins of Resistance, a project conducted in my school, which sought to decolonise the legacy of the female nude and support the empowerment of the young women artists who populate the classrooms in which I teach. Theoretically informed by PhEmaterialism (feminist posthumanism and new materialism research methodologies in education), material agency is positioned as vital to an embodied learning experience and situates how I (re)position life drawing as a tool to re‐imagined and disrupt heteronormative and raced colonial imaginings of the female body. I further explore how this project created space within the secondary art classroom for creative‐activism, and the power of such learning environments to reach out beyond the constraints of neo‐liberal educational structures and inspire transformative pedagogies of hope.
Eristic Legitimation of Controversial Managerial Decisions
Authors: Kurdoglu Rasim Serdar , Islam Gazi
Published: October 2023

This paper investigates the eristic legitimation of managerial decisions – managerial interactions to win without reasoned persuasion of the counterparty – in the context of career‐advancement disputes. This mode of legitimation can be ethically questionable, particularly when powerful managers have the licence for it, while less powerful subordinates may have ‘no other choice’ than reasoned persuasion to address their concerns. The present study involves two sets of interviews to explore eristic legitimations and associated moral and political processes. The first involves former employees who had career advancement disputes with their former managers, and the second, HR professionals with expertise in dealing with employee complaints. Our analysis suggests that managing unfairness concerns can be destructive when managerial authorities argue eristically by exploiting ambiguities around performance, tasks, goals and moral principles. The novelty of this study is that it explores how ambiguities shape managerial handling of employees’ justice concerns and how eristic legitimations during ethical decision‐making can have deleterious consequences for organizations and individual careers. While this study contributes to research on the rhetorical strategies of managers, it has important implications for interactional justice and ethical decision‐making research.
Causal effects of life course adiposity on temporomandibular disorders: A Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Chen Xin , Cheng Zheng , Xu Junyu , Wang Qianyi , Zhao Zhibai , Jiang Qianglin
Published: October 2023

Background

Previous studies investigated the associations between obesity and temporomandibular disorders (TMDs), but the evidence for the causal inferences was unclear.

Objective

We aimed to investigate the causal link between life course adiposity and TMDs.

Methods

Mendelian randomization (MR) studies were performed using genetic instruments for birth weight (BW) (N = 261 932), childhood body mass index (BMI) (N = 39 620), childhood body size (N = 454 718), adult BMI (N = 99 998), body fat percentage (N = 454 633) and TMDs (N = 211 023). We assessed the overall effect of each life course adiposity factor via inverse‐variance weighted (IVW), weighted median, and MR‐Egger methods and performed extensive sensitivity analyses. Additionally, multivariable MR was conducted to evaluate the direct and indirect effects of childhood BMI on TMDs while accounting for BW and adult BMI, and vice versa.

Results

Univariable MR analyses revealed a causal effect of low childhood adiposity on an increased risk of TMDs (childhood BMI: IVW OR: 0.65, 95% CI: 0.54–0.78,p < .001; childhood body size: IVW OR: 0.56, 95% CI: 0.43–0.73,p < .001). No causal association existed between genetically predicted BW, adult BMI, or body fat percentage and TMDs. In the multivariable MR analyses, the effects of childhood BMI on TMDs occurrence remained significant and direct, even after adjusting for BW and adult BMI (multivariable IVW OR: 0.78, 95% CI: 0.61–0.99,p = .048). No pleiotropy and heterogeneity were detected (p > .05).

Conclusion

Low childhood BMI might causally increase the risk of TMDs through a direct pathway.
Landscape and the immune patterns of cuproptosis in oral squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Yuan Dong , Li Xin‐Qiang , Qu Fang‐wen , Wang Yue
Published: October 2023

Background

Oral squamous cell carcinoma is an increasingly prevalent cancer type characterized by high incidence and mortality rates. Its early detection is challenging, primarily because of the absence of early molecular markers. Cuproptosis is a novel regulatory mechanism of cell death with implications in various cancers. In this study, we aimed to study cuproptosis‐related genes in oral squamous cell carcinoma to identify their prognostic value.

Methods

By analyzing genomic, bulk RNA‐seq, and single‐cell RNA‐seq data, we investigated 13 cuproptosis‐related genes in The Cancer Genome Atlas‐Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma dataset and Gene Expression Omnibus repository (GSE172577).

Results

ATP7A, ATP7B, and DLST were the most frequently mutated genes, with nine of our studied genes associated with overall survival. Single‐cell analysis was conducted to identify cuproptosis‐related tumor cells in oral squamous cell carcinoma, which revealed two distinct patterns based on the expression of cuproptosis‐related genes. These patterns exhibit differences in genetic alterations and tumor immune microenvironment. Finally, we developed a cuproptosis index using a random forest algorithm based on cuproptosis pattern‐related genes in which higher levels were linked to poorer prognosis.

Conclusion

Our findings provide valuable insights into the mechanisms underlying oral squamous cell carcinoma‐associated cuproptosis.
Volatiles, vesicles, and vugs: Unraveling the magmatic and eruptive histories of Steno crater basalts
Authors: Wilbur Z. E. , Barnes J. J. , Eckley S. A. , Ong I. J. , Brounce M. , Crow C. A. , Erickson T. , Kent J. J. , Boyce J. W. , Mosenfelder J. L. , Hahn T. , McCubbin F. M. , Zega T. J. ,   the ANGSA Science Team
Published: October 2023

In 1972, Apollo 17 astronauts returned 170.4 kg of lunar material. Within 1 month of their return, a subset of those samples was specially curated with the forethought that future analytical techniques would offer new insight into the formation and evolution of the Moon. Of interest in this work is sample 71036, a basalt collected from the rim of Steno crater in the Taurus–Littrow Valley, which was stored frozen and was processed and released for study 50 years later. We report, for the first time, the detailed mineralogy and petrology of 71036 and its companion samples 71035, 71037, and 71055 using a novel combination of 2‐D and 3‐D methods. We investigate lunar volatiles through in situ measurements of apatite and 3‐D measurements of vesicles to understand the degassing histories of the Steno crater basalts. Our coupled 2‐D petrography and 3‐D tomography data sets support a model of the Steno crater basalts crystallizing in the upper crust of a mare lava flow. Apatite F and OH chemistry and the late‐stage deformation of voids and formation of smaller vesicles provide evidence supporting coeval degassing of volatiles and crystallization of mesostasis apatite in Apollo 17 basalts. This work helps to close knowledge gaps surrounding the origin, magmatic evolution, emplacement, and crystallization history of high‐titanium basalts.
Psychometric validation of the Chinese digital health literacy instrument among Chinese older adults who have internet use experience
Authors: Xie Luyao , Hu Huahua , Lin Jiaer , Mo Phoenix K. H.
Published: October 2023

Introduction

In this digital age, the Internet has become a major source of health information, and electronic health (eHealth) literacy becomes increasingly important for older individuals to properly use the extensive eHealth resources for self‐care. A valid and reliable tool for assessing older people's eHealth literacy would help healthcare workers identify those disadvantaged groups in digital health and provide relevant health education.

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the psychometric properties of the Chinese version of DHLI in assessing eHealth literacy among older adults in China.

Methods

A web‐based, cross‐sectional study was conducted among 277 Chinese older adults from September to November 2021. Two weeks after the first completion, 62 of them answered the C‐DHLI again. The reliability (e.g. internal consistency and test–retest reliability), factorial structure and validity (i.e. content validity and convergent validity) of the C‐DHLI were evaluated based on the survey data.

Results

The results demonstrated good internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha: 0.94) and test–retest reliability (total intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC]: 0.94) of the C‐DHLI. Principal component analysis revealed that the 18 items of C‐DHLI loaded on three factors, accounting for 74.69% of the total variance; CFA supported its three‐factor structure with good model fits. Convergent validity was examined by the significant associations between C‐DHLI and C‐eHEALS (r = 0.61), health literacy (r = 0.56), and whether having used the Internet for health information (ρ = 0.43) (ps <.001). A cut‐off score of 45 was recommended for determining higher and lower literacy using the C‐DHLI, with the area under curve of 0.82 (95% CI = 0.77–0.88).

Conclusions and Implications for Practice

The C‐DHLI showed good psychometric performance in assessing eHealth literacy among Chinese older adults. The findings can support healthcare professionals to effectively measure eHealth literacy among older adults and conduct tailored eHealth interventions or training.
Reducing chlorophyll levels in seed‐filling stages results in higher seed nitrogen without impacting canopy carbon assimilation
Authors: Cho Young B. , Boyd Ryan A. , Ren Yudong , Lee Moon‐Sub , Jones Sarah I. , Ruiz‐Vera Ursula M. , McGrath Justin M. , Masters Michael D. , Ort Donald R.
Published: October 2023

Chlorophyll is the major light‐absorbing pigment for plant photosynthesis. While evolution has been selected for high chlorophyll content in leaves, previous work suggests that domesticated crops grown in modern high‐density agricultural environments overinvest in chlorophyll production, thereby lowering light use and nitrogen use efficiency. To investigate the potential benefits of reducing chlorophyll levels, we created ethanol‐inducible RNAi tobacco mutants that suppress Mg‐chelatase subunit I (CHLI) with small RNA within 3 h of induction and reduce chlorophyll within 5 days in field conditions. We initiated chlorophyll reduction later in plant development to avoid the highly sensitive seedling stage and to allow young plants to have full green leaves to maximise light interception before canopy formation. This study demonstrated that leaf chlorophyll reduction >60% during seed‐filling stages increased tobacco seed nitrogen concentration by as much as 17% while canopy photosynthesis, biomass and seed yields were maintained. These results indicate that time‐specific reduction of chlorophyll could be a novel strategy that decouples the inverse relationship between yield and seed nitrogen by utilising saved nitrogen from the reduction of chlorophyll while maintaining full carbon assimilation capacity.
The FLOWERING LOCUS T 5b positively regulates photoperiodic flowering and improves the geographical adaptation of soybean
Authors: Su Qiang , Chen Li , Cai Yupeng , Wang Liwei , Chen Yingying , Zhang Jialing , Liu Luping , Zhang Yan , Yuan Shan , Gao Yang , Sun Shi , Han Tianfu , Hou Wensheng
Published: October 2023

Plants can sense the photoperiod to flower at the right time. As a sensitive short‐day crop, soybean (Glycine max) flowering varies greatly depending on photoperiods, affecting yields. Adaptive changes in soybeans rely on variable genetic loci such as E1 and FLOWERING LOCUS T orthologs. However, the precise coordination and control of these molecular components remain largely unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that GmFT5b functions as a crucial factor for soybean flowering. Overexpressed or mutated GmFT5b resulted in significantly early or later flowering, altering expression profiles for several downstream flowering‐related genes under a long‐day photoperiod. GmFT5b interacts with the transcription factor GmFDL15, suggesting transcriptional tuning of flowering time regulatory genes via the GmFT5b/GmFDL15 complex. Notably, GmFT5a partially compensated for GmFT5b function, as ft5a ft5b double mutants exhibited an enhanced late‐flowering phenotype. Association mapping revealed that GmFT5b was associated with flowering time, maturity, and geographical distribution of soybean accessions, all associated with the E1 locus. Therefore, GmFT5b is a valuable target for enhancing regional adaptability. Natural variants or multiple mutants in this region can be utilized to generate optimized soybean varieties with precise flowering times.
Risk factors and clinical characteristics of acute and chronic cutaneous graft‐versus‐host disease in pediatric patients undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation
Authors: González‐Cruz Carlos , Repiso Trinidad , Ferrándiz‐Pulido Carla , Navarro Alexandra , García‐Patos Vicente
Published: October 2023

Acute and chronic cutaneous graft‐versus‐host disease (GVHD) are common complications following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in pediatric patients. In this retrospective study, we explored the risk factors and clinical characteristics of acute and chronic cutaneous GVHD in a case series of children undergoing HSCT at a tertiary referral hospital. We found that 36% of acute cutaneous GVHD was severe and these patients were more likely to have an unrelated donor, and that children with acute cutaneous GVHD who progressed to chronic cutaneous GVHD had a higher proportion of malignant diseases, total body irradiation, and bronchiolitis obliterans compared to those who did not progress to chronic cutaneous GVHD. Our study highlights the importance of identifying and monitoring these high‐risk patients to improve the clinical management and outcomes of cutaneous GVHD in pediatric HSCT recipients.