bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early Conversion to Everolimus Within 180 Days of Living Donor Liver Transplantation
Authors: Rudzik Katelyn N. , Schonder Kristine S. , Humar Abhinav , Johnson Heather J.
Published: July 2024

Background

Early conversion to Everolimus (EVR) post deceased donor liver transplant has been associated with improved renal function but increased rejection. Early EVR conversion has not been evaluated after living donor liver transplant (LDLT). A retrospective cohort study was conducted to compare the rate of rejection and renal function in patients converted to EVR early post‐LDLT to patients on calcineurin inhibitors (CNIs).

Methods

This was a single center retrospective cohort study of adult LDLT recipients between January 2012 and July 2019. Patients converted to EVR within 180 days of transplant were compared to patients on CNIs. The primary endpoint was biopsy proven acute rejection (BPAR) at 24 months posttransplant. Key secondary endpoints included eGFR at 24 months, change in eGFR, adverse events, and all‐cause mortality.

Results

From a total of 173 patients involved in the study: 58 were included in the EVR group and 115 in the CNI group. Median conversion to EVR was 26 days post‐LDLT. At 24 months, there was no difference in BPAR (22.7% EVR vs. 19.1% CNI, p = 0.63). Median eGFR at 24 months posttransplant was not significantly different (68.6 [24.8 to 112.4] mL/min EVR vs. 75.9 [35.6–116.2] mL/min CNI, p = 0.103). Change in eGFR from baseline was worse in the EVR group (−13.0 [−39.9 to 13.9] mL/min EVR vs. −5.0 [−31.2 to 21.2] mL/min CNI, p = 0.047). Median change from conversion to 24 months posttransplant (EVR group only) was −3.43 mL/min/1.73 m2 (−21.0 to 9.6).

Conclusions

Early EVR conversion was not associated with increased risk of rejection among LDLT recipients. Renal function was not impacted. EVR may be considered as an alternative after LDLT in patients intolerant of CNIs.
Importance of Transplant Era on Post–Heart Transplant Predictive Models: A UNOS Cohort Analysis
Authors: Lescroart Mickaël , Kransdorf Evan P. , Scuppa Maria Francesca , Patel Jignesh K. , Coutance Guillaume
Published: July 2024

Background

The application of posttransplant predictive models is limited by their poor statistical performance. Neglecting the dynamic evolution of demographics and medical practice over time may be a key issue.

Objectives

Our objective was to develop and validate era‐specific predictive models to assess whether these models could improve risk stratification compared to non–era‐specific models.

Methods

We analyzed the United Network for Organ Sharing (UNOS) database including first noncombined heart transplantations (2001–2018, divided into four transplant eras: 2001–2005, 2006–2010, 2011–2015, 2016–2018). The endpoint was death or retransplantation during the 1st‐year posttransplant. We analyzed the dynamic evolution of major predictive variables over time and developed era‐specific models using logistic regression. We then performed a multiparametric evaluation of the statistical performance of era‐specific models and compared them to non–era‐specific models in 1000 bootstrap samples (derivation set, 2/3; test set, 1/3).

Results

A total of 34 738 patients were included, 3670 patients (10.5%) met the composite endpoint. We found a significant impact of transplant era on baseline characteristics of donors and recipients, medical practice, and posttransplant predictive models, including significant interaction between transplant year and major predictive variables (total serum bilirubin, recipient age, recipient diabetes, previous cardiac surgery). Although the discrimination of all models remained low, era‐specific models significantly outperformed the statistical performance of non–era‐specific models in most samples, particularly concerning discrimination and calibration.

Conclusions

Era‐specific models achieved better statistical performance than non–era‐specific models. A regular update of predictive models may be considered if they were to be applied for clinical decision‐making and allograft allocation.
The causal relationship between plasma protein‐to‐protein ratios and type 2 diabetes and its complications: Proteomics mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Yue‐Yang , Chen Bing‐Xue , Yang Qin , Wan Qin
Published: July 2024

Aim

In recent years, proteomics research has surged, with numerous observational studies identifying associations between plasma proteins and type 2 diabetes. However, research specifically focusing on the ratios of plasma proteins in type 2 diabetes remains relatively scarce.

Methods

This study primarily employed a two‐sample, two‐step Mendelian randomization (MR) approach, leveraging genetic data from several large, publicly accessible genome‐wide association studies, wherein single nucleotide polymorphisms served as proxies for exposures and diseases. Within this framework, we applied two‐sample MR to assess the associations between the 2821 plasma protein‐to‐protein ratios and type 2 diabetes along with its complications and utilized reverse MR to confirm the unidirectionality of these causal relationships. In addition, we employed two‐step MR to investigate the potential mediating role of body mass index in these associations. To augment the robustness of our findings, we systematically implemented a series of sensitivity analyses.

Results

The results gleaned from the inverse‐variance weighted method elucidated that a cumulative sum of 23 protein‐to‐protein ratios bore a causal nexus with type 2 diabetes across both sample cohorts. With each incremental elevation of 1 standard deviation in the genetically anticipated protein‐to‐protein ratio, the susceptibility to type 2 diabetes oscillated from 0.93 (95% confidence interval: 0.87, 1.00) for the CNTN3/NCSS1 protein level ratio to 1.13 (1.06, 1.22) for the DBNL/NCK2 protein level ratio. Moreover, a tally of eight protein‐to‐protein ratios correlated with a minimum of one complication linked to type 2 diabetes. Diverse sensitivity analyses corroborated the robustness of these observations.

Conclusions

The outcomes of our investigation unveiled correlations between 23 plasma protein‐to‐protein ratios and type 2 diabetes, with eight of these ratios entwined with complications of type 2 diabetes. These discoveries offer novel perspectives on the diagnosis and management of type 2 diabetes and its associated complications.
Prognostic value of extraaortic‐valvular cardiac damage in patients with moderate aortic stenosis and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction
Authors: Onishi Hirokazu , Izumo Masaki , Watanabe Yusuke , Okutsu Masaaki , Hozawa Koji , Shoji Tatsuro , Sato Yukio , Kuwata Shingo , Akashi Yoshihiro J.
Published: July 2024

Purpose

The extraaortic‐valvular cardiac damage (EVCD) Stage has shown potential for risk stratification for patients with aortic stenosis (AS). This study aimed to examine the usefulness of the EVCD Stage in risk stratification of patients with moderate AS and reduced left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF).

Methods

Clinical data from patients with moderate AS (aortic valve area, .60–.85 cm2/m2; peak aortic valve velocity, 2.0–4.0 m/s) and reduced LVEF (LVEF 20%–50%) were analyzed during 2010–2019. Patients were categorized into three groups: EVCD Stages 1 (LV damage), 2 (left atrium and/or mitral valve damage), and 3/4 (pulmonary artery vasculature and/or tricuspid valve damage or right ventricular damage). The primary endpoint included a composite of cardiac death and heart failure hospitalization, with non‐cardiac death as a competing risk.

Results

The study included 130 patients (mean age 76.4 ± 6.8 years; 62.3% men). They were categorized into three groups: 26 (20.0%) in EVCD Stage 1, 66 (50.8%) in Stage 2, and 48 (29.2%) in Stage 3/4. The endpoint occurred in 54 (41.5%) patients during a median follow‐up of 3.2 years (interquartile range, 1.4–5.1). Multivariate analysis indicated EVCD Stage 3/4 was significantly associated with the endpoint (hazard ratio 2.784; 95% confidence interval 1.197–6.476; P = .017) compared to Stage 1, while Stage 2 did not (hazard ratio 1.340; 95% confidence interval .577–3.115; P = .500).

Conclusion

The EVCD staging system may aid in the risk stratification of patients with moderate AS and reduced LVEF.
Understanding cultural persistence and change: A replication of Giuliano and Nunn (2021)
Authors: Bertoli Simone , Clerc Melchior , Loper Jordan , Roca Fernández Èric
Published: July 2024

Giuliano and Nunn (2021) provide econometric evidence that ancestral climatic variability reduces the current importance of tradition. We conduct a “deep reproduction”, comparing the precise descriptions of the individual‐level regressions in their article with the corresponding code. This analysis uncovers several major inconsistencies, also related to the code not included in their replication package. A published corrigendum addresses some inconsistencies we had also communicated to the Editor of REStud, but several remain, relating to a substantial portion of the observations. A realignment of the code with the text reveals a more nuanced relationship between ancestral climatic variability and tradition.
Time is of the essence: A general framework for uncovering temporal structures of communities
Authors: Yin Hannah , Rudolf Volker H. W.
Published: July 2024

Ecological communities are inherently dynamic: species constantly turn over within years, months, weeks or even days. These temporal shifts in community composition determine essential aspects of species interactions and how energy, nutrients, information, diseases and perturbations ‘flow’ through systems. Yet, our understanding of community structure has relied heavily on static analyses not designed to capture critical features of this dynamic temporal dimension of communities. Here, we propose a conceptual and methodological framework for quantifying and analysing this temporal dimension. Conceptually, we split the temporal structure into two definitive features, sequence and duration, and review how they are linked to key concepts in ecology. We then outline how we can capture these definitive features using perspectives and tools from temporal graph theory. We demonstrate how we can easily integrate ongoing research on phenology into this framework and highlight what new opportunities arise from this approach to answer fundamental questions in community ecology. As climate change reshuffles ecological communities worldwide, quantifying the temporal organization of communities is imperative to resolve the fundamental processes that shape natural ecosystems and predict how these systems may change in the future.
Can genomic signatures guide the selection of host‐specific agents for weed biological control?
Authors: Kumaran Nagalingam , Raghu S.
Published: July 2024

Biological control of weeds involves deliberate introduction of host‐specific natural enemies into invaded range to reduce the negative impacts of invasive species. Assessing the specificity is a crucial step, as introduction of generalist natural enemies into a new territory may pose risks to the recipient communities. A mechanistic understanding of host use can provide valuable insights for the selection of specialist natural enemies, bolster confidence in non‐target risk assessment and potentially accelerate the host specificity testing process in biological control. We conducted a comprehensive analysis of studies on the genomics of host specialization with a view to examine if genomic signatures can help predict host specificity in insects. Focusing on phytophagous Lepidoptera, Coleoptera and Diptera, we compared chemosensory receptors and enzymes between “specialist” (insects with narrow host range) and “generalist” (insects with wide host range) insects. The availability of genomic data for biological control agents (natural enemies of weeds) is limited thus our analyses utilized data from pest insects and model organisms for which genomic data are available. Our findings revealed that specialists generally exhibit a lower number of chemosensory receptors and enzymes compared with their generalist counterparts. This pattern was more prominent in Coleoptera and Diptera relative to Lepidoptera. This information can be used to reject agents with large gene repertoires to potentially accelerate the risk assessment process. Similarly, confirming smaller gene repertoires in specialists could further strengthen the risk evaluation. Despite the distinctive signatures between specialists and generalists, challenges such as finite genomic data for biological control agents, ad hoc comparisons, and fewer comparative studies among congeners limit our ability to use genomic signatures to predict host specificity. A few studies have empirically compared phylogenetically closely related species, enhancing the resolution and the predictive power of genomics signatures thus suggesting the need for more targeted studies comparing congeneric specialists and generalists.
Use of a poll‐mounted accelerometer for quantification and characterisation of equine trigeminal‐mediated headshaking
Authors: Pickles Kirstie Jane , Marlin David J. , Williams Jane Michelle , Roberts Veronica L. H.
Published: July 2024

Background

Equine trigeminal‐mediated (TGM) headshaking (HS) is a neuropathic facial pain syndrome characterised by varying intensity and frequencies of head movements and signs of nasal irritation. An accurate method for quantification and/or characterisation of HS severity is lacking.

Objectives

To develop and validate an objective measure of TGMHS.

Study design

Prospective case control study.

Methods

Horses presenting for investigation of HS were recruited alongside those presenting for forelimb lameness (LAME) and pre‐purchase examination as well as healthy controls (CONTROL). Head movement data were collected for 5 min whilst trotting on the lunge using a tri‐axial accelerometer, with a range of ±16 g and sampling rate of 800 Hz, attached to the bridle headpiece. Recordings were exported for processing. Peak detection was performed using minimum and maximum thresholds of −1 g and +1 g (corrected for gravity) and a minimum peak width of 10 samples.

Results

Fifty‐six horses were included in the study; 18 TGMHS, 10 non‐TGMHS, 12 LAME and 16 CONTROL. Characteristics and frequency of vertical (Z axis) head movements of TGMHS horses differed significantly from other horses. TGMHS horses had peaks with greater mean and maximum positive g‐force (P < 0.005) and lower mean and minimum negative g‐force (P < 0.001), greater frequency of peaks/min (P < 0.001) and over 12 times greater percentage of peaks >+2 g compared with other horses (P < 0.001). Receiver operator curve characteristics of percentage of peaks >+2 g (CI 0.72–0.95), percentage of peaks <−2 g (CI 0.66–0.92) and percentage of peaks <−2 g and >+2 g (CI 0.72–0.96) showed excellent discrimination of TGMHS horses from LAME, CONTROL and non‐TGMHS horses.

Main limitations

Referral population of horses, small sample size and control horses were not evaluated for orthopaedic disease.

Conclusions

Accelerometer data from trotting exercise on the lunge provides an objective measure of HS and can differentiate between TGMHS, non‐TGMHS, normal head movements and those associated with forelimb lameness. Accelerometer use may aid HS diagnosis and monitoring of management strategies.
Adaptation process of parents experiencing the coming out of their child
Authors: Sielicka Edyta , Sobczak Aleksandra
Published: July 2024

Objective

The objective of the study was to analyze the process of adaptation in parents residing in Poland whose child has revealed their gay/lesbian sexual orientation or gender identity and determine the stages and conditions of this process.

Background

When a young person discloses their gay/lesbian sexual orientation or transgender identity, their parents' reaction has a significant impact on their psychological well‐being and on whether their family system can survive.

Method

This study, carried out from July to November 2022, involved conducting 21 interviews with parents residing in Poland whose child (whether a younger child, an adolescent, or an emerging adult) had come out about their gay/lesbian sexual orientation or transgender identity.

Results

Analysis of interviews conducted during the research revealed the main stages of the process of parents' adaptation to their child coming out: initial attribution, coming out, secondary attribution, confrontation, and acceptance. For individual stages, we categorized reactions, which complement the description of an individual trajectory of adaptation.

Conclusion

It is our opinion that for parents experiencing their child's coming out, the concept of their adaptation should be expanded to include a theory of grief and psychological crisis, highlighting the parents' need for cognitive‐functional validation of the situation.

Implications

Future research should seek to individualize the adaptation trajectories of parents whose child has come out about their sexual orientation or gender identity and relate these analyses to both mothers' and fathers' parental roles.
AXIN2 promotes degradation of AXIN1 through tankyrase in colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Schmidt Olivia , Brückner Martina , Bernkopf Dominic B.
Published: July 2024

AXIN1 and AXIN2 are homologous proteins that inhibit the Wnt/β‐catenin signaling pathway, which is frequently hyperactive in colorectal cancer. Stabilization of AXIN1 and AXIN2 by inhibiting their degradation through tankyrase (TNKS) allows the attenuation of Wnt signaling in cancer, attracting interest for potential targeted therapy. Here, we found that knockout or knockdown of AXIN2 in colorectal cancer cells increased the protein stability of AXIN1. The increase in AXIN1 overcompensated for the loss of AXIN2 with respect to protein levels; however, functionally it did not because loss of AXIN2 activated the pathway. Moreover, AXIN2 was highly essential in the context of TNKS inhibition because TNKS‐targeting small‐molecule inhibitors completely failed to inhibit Wnt signaling and to stabilize AXIN1 in AXIN2 knockout cells. The increased AXIN1 protein stability and the impaired stabilization by TNKS inhibitors indicated disrupted TNKS‐AXIN1 regulation in AXIN2 knockout cells. Concordantly, mechanistic studies revealed that co‐expression of AXIN2 recruited TNKS to AXIN1 and stimulated TNKS‐mediated degradation of transiently expressed AXIN1 wild‐type and AXIN1 mutants with impaired TNKS binding. Taken together, our data suggest that AXIN2 promotes degradation of AXIN1 through TNKS in colorectal cancer cells by directly linking the two proteins, and these findings may be relevant for TNKS inhibition‐based colorectal cancer therapies.
Influence of coastal oceanography on early life history traits of larval Patagonian sprat, Sprattus fuegensis along southeastern Pacific Ocean
Authors: López‐Soto Erika , Ord Gillian , Castillo Manuel I. , Plaza Guido , Cáceres Mario A. , González María Teresa , Sepúlveda Maritza , Guerrero Alicia I. , Piñones Andrea , Landaeta Mauricio F.
Published: July 2024

Early life history traits of small pelagic fish are usually affected by environmental conditions. Patagonian sprat, Sprattus fuegensis, is a small pelagic fish that inhabits the continental shelf, fjords and channels of Patagonia. Their larvae are usually exposed to large variations in physical and biological conditions. We evaluated the effects of environmental conditions on early life history traits of this key species encompassing over 20 years of information. The characterization of oceanographic features, larval abundance and distribution was carried out in western Patagonia between 1996 and 2019, while the growth and mortality rates were estimated for the austral spring 2019 between 49°54′S and 53°55′S. Larval abundance decreased three to ten times from 1996 to 1997 to the rest of the study period (2008–2010 and 2014–2019), with larger abundances being found over the shelf. In spring 2019, the growth rate was 0.20 ± 0.05 mm d−1 for larvae between 9 and 19 days after hatching. The growth rate was similar in partially stratified (7–50 J m−3) and stratified waters (50–100 J m−3), but slower in mixed waters (< 7 J m−3). GAM modelling showed that the faster larval growth occurred in partially stratified waters with temperatures above 7.5°C. Natural mortality rates were higher in partially stratified waters (24% of daily loss), lower in stratified areas (14%) and the lowest in the mixed water column (12%). Accordingly, larvae living in channels had faster growth rates but higher daily mortality, while those that hatched or were advected to water parcels on the continental shelf had slower growth but lower daily mortality. Finally, these latter traits may be an example of an inverse growth‐selective survival strategy.
Migraine epidemiology in collegiate student‐athletes: Findings from the Concussion Assessment, Research, and Education (CARE) Consortium
Authors: Burns Karlee N. , Zhao Huaqing , Master Christina , Langford Dianne , Tierney Ryan , McDevitt Jane ,   of the CARE Consortium
Published: July 2024

Objective

This cross‐sectional study evaluated de‐identified data from the National Collegiate Athletic Association—Department of Defense Grand Alliance from 2014 to 2020 to determine the prevalence of migraine and migraine medication and to describe differences in migraine prevalence by sex, race, and sport.

Background

Epidemiological studies can help identify underdiagnosed and undertreated populations. Understanding migraine prevalence in collegiate student‐athletes is essential for positive healthcare outcomes including development of prevention and treatment plans.

Methods

From a concussion baseline assessment, participant's self‐reported demographics (e.g., age, sex, sport), migraine diagnosis (i.e., yes/no), and migraine medication usage (e.g., yes/no, type) determined prevalence of migraine and medication use in collegiate student‐athletes.

Results

Migraine was reported in 5.6% (2617/47,060; 95% confidence interval [CI] 5.4%–5.8%) of the student‐athletes, with higher prevalence in females, 7.5% (1319/17,628; 95% CI 7.1%–7.9%), than males, 4.6% (1298/28,116; 95% CI 4.4%–4.9%). Medication usage was reported by 36.2% (947/2617; 95% CI 34.3%–38.0%) of individuals with migraine. Migraine reporting differed by race, with Caucasian reporting highest (5.9%; 1990/33,913; 95% CI 5.6%–6.1%) and Asian the lowest (2.7%; 55/2027; 95% CI 2.1%–3.5%). Women's sports, including golf, gymnastics, and lacrosse, and men's diving and squash had higher migraine reporting than other sports.

Conclusion

Caucasian females reported higher rates than other groups and sport influenced rates of migraine diagnosis.
Facile synthesis, characterization, and in vitro biocompatibility of free‐standing titania hollow microtubes
Authors: Wang Yixuan , Zhang Fenghao , Chen Song , Osaka Akiyoshi , Chen Weiyi
Published: July 2024

Titania nanotube (NT) arrays have been widely used as cell‐supporting matrices. However, cells are always seeded on the porous surface of the NT array and have very limited interactions with each individual NT in the array. In this study, titania hollow microtubes (HMTs) were synthesized via a gelatin‐template sol‐gel route and then utilized as free‐standing cell‐supporting matrices for the first time. The resultant titania HMTs were studied by field emission scanning electron microscopy, energy‐dispersed spectroscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy. Each HMT was composed of rutile‐type titania nanoparticles with diameters of 50–100 nm and a diameter of 50–100 µm. The results from a leaching liquor assay demonstrated good biocompatibility of titania HMTs. Each HMT has been demonstrated to independently support the adhesion and proliferation of osteoblast MC3T3‐E1 cells. For comparison, titania NT arrays, not independent titania NT, only supported the adhesion of cells on their porous surface. Thus, the resultant titania HMTs are applicable to free‐standing and biocompatible cell‐supporting matrices.
Synergistic lubrication effect of OLC and MoDTC for reducing friction and wear of MAO ceramic coating on TC4 alloy
Authors: Li Yang , Bai Xiao , Zhang Dejian , Sun Huilai , Guo Zhengang , Yang Shuyan , Wan Yong
Published: July 2024

TC4 titanium alloy has been widely used in the automotive field due to its exceptional properties. However, inherent defects such as low hardness and poor wear resistance for TC4 alloy limited its wider application. The microarc oxidation (MAO) technique was employed in this paper to prepare MAO coatings on TC4 titanium alloy. The microstructure, phase structure, mechanical properties, and tribological performance were systematically evaluated. The results show that the coating contains a large amount of rutile TiO2 hard phase after MAO treatment, which significantly improves the mechanical properties of the substrate. The hardness of the MAO coating can reach 581 HV.05. Furthermore, the synergistic lubrication effect of onion‐like carbon (OLC) nanoparticles and organic molybdenum dithiocarbamate (MoDTC) in PAO oil was observed for MAO‐treated TC4. Particularly, when .01 wt.% OLC is used with 1 wt.% MoDTC oil, the coefficient of friction (COF) decreases to .062, and the wear rate decreases to 4.3 × 10−7 mm3/Nm. Combined Raman and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) analysis indicate that OLC is deposited on coating area to form a lubricating carbon film. Additionally, OLC can promote the decomposition of MoDTC during sliding to generate a tribofilm containing MoS2.
An Effective Soil Analysis and Crop Yield Prediction Based on Optimised Light GBM in Smart Agriculture
Authors: Parganiha Vivek , Verma Monika
Published: July 2024

In the agricultural sector, crop yield prediction plays an important role as it helps farmers make decisions about the growing season and type of crops to get better yield. The main goal in the agricultural sector is to reduce operating costs and pollution by improving crop yields and quality. This paper proposes an effective method for soil analysis and crop yield prediction for intelligent agriculture. The collected data are preprocessed using missing value interpolation and data normalisation techniques. Feature selection is performed on the preprocessed data using the Aquila‐based adaptive optimisation algorithm, which selects the best trait subset for yield prediction. An improved lightweight gradient‐boosting machine based on the Battle Royale Optimisation technique is used for classification. The performance of the proposed system is evaluated using mean absolute error, root mean square error, R‐squared, mean square error, mean square logarithmic error and mean absolute percentage error, and the proposed system achieved an accuracy of 97%. The proposed system accurately predicts crop yields, improving crop production and quality.
Novel needle‐type electrocoagulation and combination pharmacotherapy: Basic and clinical studies on efficacy and safety in treating keloids
Authors: Zhao Jingting , Zhai Xiaoyu , Xu Zhiyi , Zhou Shu , Gu Liqun , Chen Lin , Zhou Bingrong , Hua Hui
Published: July 2024

Background and Aim

Keloids cannot be effectively treated using monotherapy regimens. This study aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of ablation (a novel needle‐assisted electrocoagulation technique) combined with pharmacotherapy (corticosteroid and 5‐fluorouracil [5‐FU] injections) in removing keloids and to investigate the underlying biological mechanisms.

Methods

The effects of energy consumption and duration of needle‐assisted electrocoagulation on the ablation zone were tested in porcine liver tissue, which simulates human skin. The regulatory effects of ablation combined with pharmacotherapy on collagen deposition, cell proliferation, and angiogenesis were analyzed in a keloid‐bearing nude mouse model in vivo. In a clinical trial involving six patients with keloids, the Vancouver Scar Scale (VSS) and Patient and Observer Scar Assessment Scale (POSAS) scores were graded before treatment and 1 month after one cycle of ablation combined with corticosteroid and 5‐FU therapy.

Results

Higher energy consumption and longer duration of electrocoagulation resulted in a larger ablation zone and higher surface temperature. Ablation combined with pharmacotherapy significantly reduced keloid volume in nude mice, upregulated MMP‐1 and MMP‐3, downregulated COL I and COL III, and inhibited angiogenesis and proliferation. This combination also significantly reduced the VSS and POSAS scores in patients with keloids after treatment without any obvious adverse events.

Conclusion

Our findings show that electroablation combined with pharmacotherapy effectively reduces keloid volume by inhibiting collagen deposition, angiogenesis, and cell proliferation. Thus, this novel combination may serve as a safe therapeutic approach for keloid removal.
Evolution of secondary metabolites, morphological structures and associated gene expression patterns in galls induced by four closely related aphid species on a host plant species
Authors: Mizuki Mayu , Kaneko Yohei , Yukie Yoshitaka , Suyama Yoshihisa , Hirota Shun K. , Sawa Shinichiro , Kubo Minoru , Yamawo Akira , Sasabe Michiko , Ikeda Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

Gall‐forming insects induce various types of galls on their host plants by altering gene expression in host plant organs, and recent studies have been conducted for gene expression in galls. However, the evolutionary trajectories of gene expression patterns and the resulting phenotypes have not yet been studied using multiple related species. We investigated the speciation and the diversification process of galls induced by four closely related aphid species (Hormaphidini) on a host plant species (Hamamelis japonica) by examining the phylogenetic congruence between the geographical divergences of aphids and the host plant, and by comparing their gene expression patterns and resulting phenotypes. Phylogenetic analysis of aphids and the host plant showed that geographical isolation among host plant populations has interrupted gene flow in aphids and accelerated the speciation process. The concentration of phenolics and the complexity of the internal structure of galls were correlated with the expression levels of genes for the biosynthesis of phenolics and morphogenesis respectively. These results suggest that the expression levels of genes for the biosynthesis of phenolics and morphogenesis have evolutionarily increased in galls accelerated by the speciation process of aphids due to the distribution change of the host plant, leading to the related phenotypic evolution. Our study showed the evolutionary process of phenotypic traits in galls in the wild from both gene expression and actual phenotype levels.
Vascular plant taxonomic and functional richness differentially affect non‐vascular photoautotroph communities
Authors: Cárdenas‐Henao Mariana , Stanton Daniel E.
Published: July 2024

Despite their ecological significance, non‐vascular photoautotrophs (NVPs) are frequently excluded from ecological experimental studies, leading to a limited comprehension of how their communities are affected by the ecosystem dynamics and an underestimation of their role in ecosystem functioning. We studied the impact of vascular plant taxonomic and functional diversity on three groups of ground NVPs (lichens, bryophytes, and cyanobacteria) within one of the longest‐running plant biodiversity experiments (Biodiversity and Ecosystem Function at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Science Reserve). Utilizing the permanent plot framework of this experiment, we analyzed the effects of almost 30 years of treatment across various levels of vascular plant taxonomic and functional diversity on NVPs. For each diversity level we documented NVP cover and richness. Using generalized linear models we evaluated the effect of vascular plant taxonomic and functional diversity, as well as environmental factors affected by vascular diversity (such as vascular plant cover, light penetration, soil nutrient content, and microtopography) on NVP richness and cover. Using these models, we conducted structural equation modeling analyses (SEM) that allowed us to differentiate the direct and indirect impacts of vascular plant taxonomic and functional diversity on NVPs. Our results showed that both lichen and bryophyte richness and cover decreased with higher vascular plant taxonomic and functional diversity, while cyanobacteria cover increased as a function of the same parameters. We also showed that microtopography serves as better predictor for lichens and bryophytes, while nutrient‐related factors perform better as predictors for cyanobacteria. Additionally, our findings indicate that NVP cover ranged from 0.001% to 100% (mean 15%) in the surveyed plots, representing a major, still ignored, component of the experimental plots. This study shows that vascular plant diversity directly and indirectly affects NVP communities, but the consequences of these effects at community and ecosystem levels are still to be explored.
A never‐ending story of an identity crisis or a creative reformulation of an Alevi‐mindset? What the case of Alevi youth in the German diaspora suggest today?
Authors: Gültekin Ahmet Kerim
Published: July 2024

The Alevi movement, originating more than three decades ago in Turkey and the Western European diaspora, has led to significant social and cultural shifts within Alevi communities. This movement witnessed the emergence of Alevi associations, increased religio‐political activities, and a fervent search for a redefined Alevi identity. The quest for a comprehensive understanding of Alevi identity remains a contested debate, prominently reflected within Alevi youth, who navigate complex socio‐cultural landscapes and encounter challenges in defining their identity amidst competing narratives and associations. This paper examines the identity formation strategies of young Alevis in Berlin, drawing on ethnographic fieldwork conducted between 2021 and 2023. Contrary to mainstream portrayals of Alevi youth experiencing a loss of identity, this study argues for the presence of continuity dynamics, emphasising inherited Alevi mindsets and emotions. Through interviews and analysis of a documentary produced by Berlin Alevi youth, the paper explores new narratives about Alevi history, sociology, and theology constructed by young Alevis, highlighting their role in shaping contemporary Alevism in Germany. This research contributes original data and discussions to the existing literature on Alevi youth, shedding light on their evolving identities and the dynamics of Alevi discourse in diasporic settings.
Injury Prevention Training in Girls' and Women's Elite Football in Denmark: A Survey of Practices and Perceptions
Authors: Bandak Elisabeth , Zebis Mette , Alkjaer Tine , Nielsen Sabrina Mai , Bennike Søren , Thorborg Kristian
Published: July 2024

Through a national cross‐sectional survey, the present study investigated the use and content of injury prevention training (IPT), and associated attitudes and beliefs, involving stakeholders in Danish girls' and women's elite football (U14, U16, U18, and Danish Women's League teams). A total of 168 stakeholders (coaches, physical performance coaches, physiotherapists, medical doctors, and club management) from 18 Danish elite clubs were invited to participate. Of these, 158 were eligible to participate, and 110 participants (69.6% response rate) provided 191 valid survey responses, as some provided more than one response due to multiple affiliations within the same club. The use of IPT ranged from 91.1% to 100% across team levels, with approximately 50% reporting up to 1–2 h/week. Interestingly, only 52.9%–72.7% of the responses indicated use of an evidence‐based IPT program, with lowest adoption at the U14 and Danish Women's League teams. The FIFA 11+ was the most used evidence‐based IPT program. The majority of the participants (>72%) had positive perceptions regarding IPT impact on injury reduction. These findings indicate that, while IPT is broadly used across Danish girls' and women's elite football teams, the implementation of evidence‐based IPT programs varies, with lower adoption of these programs among the youngest and senior elite teams. Hence, there is a need to enhance integration of IPT programs proven effective in girls' and women's elite football. Notably, stakeholders expressed positive perceptions regarding the impact of IPT on injury reduction, which provides valuable support for future efforts to strengthen IPT in football practice.
A novel HLA‐DPA1 allele, HLA‐DPA1*02:134, identified by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Moya‐Quiles María Rosa , Muro Manuel
Published: July 2024

HLA‐DPA1*02:134, a novel HLA class II allele detected by next‐generation sequencing.
Validation of KIR3DL1 alleles assigned by next generation sequencing
Authors: Paganini Julien , Pedini Pascal , Rijkers Maaike , Chiaroni Jacques , Di Cristofaro Julie
Published: July 2024

We describe the novel KIR3DL1*182 allele and confirmed the 3DL1*15002 allele.
On regression modeling in varieties research
Authors: Gries Stefan Th.
Published: July 2024

One particularly prominent methodological development in linguistics is what has been termed the “quantitative turn”: Not only are more and more studies using statistical tools to explore data and to test hypotheses, the complexity of the statistical methods employed is growing as well. This development is particularly prominent in all kinds of corpus‐linguistic studies: 20 years ago chi‐squared tests, t‐tests, and Pearson's r reigned supreme, but now more and more corpus studies are using multivariate exploratory tools and, for hypothesis testing, multifactorial predictive modeling techniques, in particular regression models (and, increasingly, tree‐based methods). However welcome this development is, it, and especially its pace as well as the fact that few places offer rigorous training in statistical methods, comes with its own risks, chief among them that analytical methods are misapplied, which can lead imprecise, incomplete, or wrong analyses. In this paper, I will revisit a recent regression‐analytic study in the research area of English varieties (on clause‐final also and only in three Asian Englishes) to:

highlight in particular three fundamental yet frequent mistakes that it exemplifies;

discuss why and how each of these mistakes should be addressed;

reanalyze the data (as far as is possible with what is available) and show briefly how that affects the analysis's results and interpretation.
Setting sail for Paris 2024: Retrospective analysis of world‐class ILCA 7 Olympic sailors’ cardiorespiratory fitness (2015–2020)
Authors: Zubac Damir , Valić Zoran , Ivančev Vladimir
Published: July 2024

The aim of this retrospective analysis was to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the cardiorespiratory profile of world‐class ILCA‐7 sailors (n = 3, all males), through a longitudinal evaluation offering real‐world data on physiological profile and exercise intensity domains. The cardiopulmonary exercise testing (CPET) was performed by the same researchers using the same equipment during the study. Assessments took place twice a year, aligning with major international competition preparations. Participants trained and competed at the same sailing club in Split, Croatia, under consistent supervision from the same team throughout the study, winning a total of 21 medals at major international competitions. The recorded ranged from 51.7 ± 1.6 to 61.9 ± 3.0 mL min−1 kg−1, respectively. Similarly, peak power output varied from 352 ± 10 to 426 ± 34 W. The changes in physiological responses at the ventilatory thresholds were proportional to the changes in peak cardiorespiratory fitness capacity. Interestingly, the oxygen pulse measured in 2015 was 25 ± 1 mL O2 beat−1. Over the subsequent 6 years, the O2 pulse marginally increased and appeared to stabilize at 27 ± 1 mL O2 beat−1 in 2020, when these athletes were 32 ± 3 years old. This work offers a broader understanding of world‐class Olympic sailors’ cardiorespiratory fitness, going beyond the standard assessment of peak to incorporate an analysis of ventilatory thresholds. While a direct link between cardiorespiratory fitness and competitive success remains ambiguous, the importance of a well‐rounded aerobic capacity for excellence in ILCA‐7 sailing class is evident.
Transition from the regime of thermionic emission to the space-charge limited current regime under strong Shottky effects
Authors: Karaoulanis D. , Xanthakis J. P.
Published: July 2024

We have examined the transition from the thermionic to the space-charge limited current (SCLC) regime under strong Schottky effects as the electric field increases. We have used the methodology of Lau et al. for their study of the transition from the field emission (FE) to the SCLC regime. We have obtained current–voltage, I–V, characteristics, exhibiting both an exponential and a power-law part signifying the presence of the transition. We have found that this transition does not occur at all temperatures but there is a range of temperatures and work functions for which it takes place. Furthermore, the diode width plays a crucial role. As the field is increased, the emitting material may enter first the FE regime before it transitions to the SCLC regime. The condition that the emitter remains within the thermal regime before it transitions to the SCLC regime places restrictions on the operating temperature T and work function W of the emitter. However, we observe the thermionic to the SCLC transition for all thermionic diodes with work functions 1 eV ≤ W ≤ 2 eV (which includes all modern thermionic cathodes), but the diode widths must be in a specific (but extended) range which includes the nm range.
Using Bonds to Achieve Investment Goals at Provincial University
Authors: Chard Chris
Published: July 2024

Lesley Johnson is the athletic director at Provincial University where a generous donation has recently been made to the Athletic Department to create an endowment to fund scholarships—called Athletic Financial Awards—at Provincial University. Lesley is tasked with devising the best plan to utilize these funds within the risk parameters established by Provincial University’s Board of Governors. Here, different investments are contemplated; however, with the guidance of Kelly Simpson, from Capital and Revenue Consultants, financial analyses to estimate returns, pricing, and risk factors for various fixed income options are completed.
In Other Journals
Authors: Wible Brad , Vignieri Sacha , Osborne Ian S. , Maroso Mattia , Uzogara Ekeoma , Nusinovich Yevgeniya , Grocholski Brent
Published: July 2024

Editors’ selections from the current scientific literature
California Academy of Sciences reeling from new budget cuts
Authors: Stokstad Erik
Published: July 2024

Science division gets hit hard to close major funding gap
Scientists at odds over wild plans to slow melting glaciers
Authors: Richter Hannah
Published: July 2024

Call to study glacial geoengineering stirs up “civil war” among polar scientists
Effect of L-arginine on cystic fibrosis
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
biofilms
Authors: Eisha Shafinaz , Morris Amanda J. , Martin Isaac , Yau Yvonne C. W. , Grasemann Hartmut , Waters Valerie
Published: July 2024

Cystic fibrosis (CF) airways are L-arginine deficient which may affect susceptibility to infection with certain pathogens. The potential impact of L-arginine supplementation on
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, a common CF airway pathogen, is unclear. This study investigated the effects of L-arginine on
P. aeruginosa
biofilm cultures, using the laboratory strain PAO1 and multi-drug resistant CF clinical isolates.
P. aeruginosa
biofilms were grown in a chambered cover-glass slide model for 24 h, then exposed to either L-arginine alone or combined with tobramycin for an additional 24 h. Biofilms were visualized using confocal microscopy, and viable cells were measured via plating for colony-forming units. Increasing concentrations of L-arginine in bacterial culture medium reduced the biovolume of
P. aeruginosa
in a dose-dependent manner. Notably, L-arginine concentrations within the physiological range (50 mM and 100 mM) in combination with tobramycin promoted biofilm growth, while higher concentrations (600 mM and 1200 mM) inhibited growth. These findings demonstrate the potential of L-arginine as an adjuvant therapy to inhaled tobramycin in treating
P. aeruginosa
infections in people with CF.
Trends in long term vaping among adults in England, 2013-23: population based study
Authors: Jackson Sarah E , Tattan-Birch Harry , Shahab Lion , Brown Jamie
Published: July 2024

Objective

To examine trends in long term (>6 months) vaping among adults in England.

Design

Population based study.

Setting

England.

Participants

179 725 adults (≥18 years) surveyed between October 2013 and October 2023.

Main outcome measures

Time trends in prevalence of long term vaping using logistic regression, overall and by vaping frequency (daily or non-daily), and main type of device used (disposable, refillable, or pod).

Results

The proportion of adults reporting long term vaping increased non-linearly, from 1.3% (95% confidence interval 1.1% to 1.5%) in October 2013 to 10.0% (9.2% to 10.9%) in October 2023, with a particularly pronounced rise from 2021. This rise included an increase in long term daily vaping, from 0.6% (0.5% to 0.8%) to 6.7% (6.0% to 7.4%). Absolute increases in long term vaping were larger among people with a history of regular smoking (current smokers: 4.8% (4.0% to 5.8%) to 23.1% (20.4% to 25.9%); recent former smokers: 5.7% (3.4% to 9.2%) to 36.1% (27.6% to 45.4%); long term former smokers: 1.4% (1.0% to 1.9%) to 16.2% (14.2% to 18.4%)), but an increase also occurred among people who had never regularly smoked (0.1% (0.0% to 0.2%) to 3.0% (2.3% to 3.8%)). Growth was also more pronounced in young adults (eg, reaching 22.7% (19.2% to 26.5%) of 18 year olds
v
4.3% (3.6% to 5.2%) of 65 year olds), including among those who had never regularly smoked (reaching 16.1% (11.1% to 22.7%) of 18 year olds
v
0.3% (0.1% to 0.6%) of 65 year olds). Between October 2013 and March 2021, most long term vapers mainly or exclusively used refillable electronic cigarettes (2.5% to 3.3% of adults) and few (0.1% of adults) used disposable devices. However, prevalence of long term vaping using disposable devices subsequently rose rapidly, and by October 2023 similar proportions of adults mainly or exclusively used disposable and refillable devices (4.9% (4.2% to 5.7%) and 4.6% (4.0% to 5.3%), respectively).

Conclusions

The prevalence of long term vaping increased substantially among adults in England during 2013-23. Much of this increase occurred from 2021, coinciding with the rise in popularity of disposable e-cigarettes. Half of long term vapers now mainly or exclusively use disposable devices. The growth was concentrated among people with a history of regular smoking, but an increase also occurred among people who never regularly smoked, especially young adults.