bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐term cognitive outcome after elective hip or knee total joint arthroplasty: A population‐based observational study
Authors: Tang Angelina B. , Diaz‐Ramirez L. Grisell , Boscardin W. John , Smith Alexander K. , Ward Derek , Glymour M. Maria , Whitlock Elizabeth L.
Published: January 2024

Background

One year after elective hip or knee total joint arthroplasty (TJA), >30% of older adults meet criteria for postoperative neurocognitive disorder. However, this is not contextualized with long‐term cognitive outcomes in comparable surgical and nonsurgical controls. We analyzed population‐based data to compare long‐term cognitive outcomes in older adults after TJA, other surgeries, and with and without arthritis pain.

Methods

This was a retrospective observational analysis of United States older adults in the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) who underwent elective TJA, or elective surgery without expected functional benefits (e.g., cholecystectomy; inguinal herniorrhaphy), between 1998 and 2018 at aged 65 or older. TJA recipients were also age‐ and sex‐matched to nonsurgical controls who reported moderate–severe arthritic pain or denied pain, so that comparison groups included surgical and nonsurgical (pain‐suffering and pain‐free) controls. We modeled biennially‐assessed memory performance, a measure of direct and proxy cognitive assessments, before and after surgery, normalized to the rate of memory decline (“cognitive aging”) in controls to express effect size estimates as excess, or fewer, months of memory decline. We used linear mixed effects models adjusted for preoperative health and demographic factors, including frailty, flexibly capturing time before/after surgery (knots at −4, 0, 8 years; discontinuity at surgery).

Results

There were 1947 TJA recipients (average age 74; 63% women; 1358 knee, 589 hip) and 1631 surgical controls (average age 76; 38% women). Memory decline 3 years after TJA was similar to surgical controls (5.2 [95% confidence interval, CI −1.2 to 11.5] months less memory decline in the TJA group, p = 0.11) and nonsurgical controls. At 5 years, TJA recipients experienced 5.0 [95% CI −0.9 to 10.9] months less memory decline than arthritic pain nonsurgical controls.

Conclusion

There is no systematic accelerated memory decline at 3 years after TJA compared with surgical or nonsurgical controls.
Pragmatic patchwork ethnography, a call to action for health, nutrition and dietetic researchers
Authors: Swettenham Marie , Langley‐Evans Simon C.
Published: January 2024

Qualitative research methods are increasingly used in nutrition and dietetics research. Ethnography is an underexploited approach which seeks to explore the diversity of people and cultures in a given setting, providing a better understanding of the influences that determine their choices and behaviours. It is argued that traditional ethnography, that is, the methodology of living within participant communities, is a dated practice, with roots in colonialism, accessible to only researchers with the means, connections and status to conduct such research, typically white, privileged males. This paper proposes a formal interpretation of ‘patchwork ethnography’, whereby research is carried out in situ around existing modern‐day commitments of the researcher, thus enabling more researchers within health, nutrition and dietetic practice to benefit from the rich data that can be discovered from communities. This review proposes the concept that pragmatic patchwork ethnography is required, proposing a framework for implementation, providing researchers, particularly within the fields of human nutrition, dietetics and health, the accessibility and means to deploy a meaningful client‐centric methodology. We present pragmatic patchwork ethnography as a modern method for use within multiple healthcare settings, thus adding a progressive brick in the wall of qualitative research.
Region‐specific interobserver agreement of the Alberta Stroke Program Early Computed Tomography Score: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Zarrintan Armin , Ibrahim Mohamed K. , Hamouda Noha , Jabal Mohamed Sobhi , Beizavi Zahra , Ghozy Sherief , Kallmes David F.
Published: January 2024

Background and Purpose

The Alberta Stroke Program Early CT Score (ASPECTS) is a widely used scoring system for evaluating ischemic stroke to determine therapeutic strategy. However, there is variation in the interobserver agreement of ASPECTS. This systematic review and meta‐analysis aimed to investigate the interobserver agreement of total and regional ASPECTS.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in the Web of Sciences, PubMed, and Scopus databases to identify relevant studies. Inclusion criteria were studies of noncontrast CT performed within 24 hours of ischemic stroke in the middle cerebral artery territory.

Results

A total of 20 studies, with 3482 patients, reporting interobserver agreement of total and regional ASPECTS were included in the meta‐analysis. The interobserver agreement for total ASPECTS in studies using Kappa coefficient (κ) analysis was substantial (κ = .67, 95% confidence interval [CI]: .57‐.78). In studies using intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) analysis, agreement was excellent (ICC = .84, 95% CI: .77‐.90). Interobserver agreement was higher in studies in which the observer was unblinded to clinical scenario in both groups (κ = .74, 95% CI: .59‐.89, and ICC = .82, 95% CI: .79‐.85). Per‐region analysis showed that the caudate nucleus had the highest agreement (κ = .68, 95% CI: .60‐.76, and ICC = .84, 95% CI: .74‐.93), while M2 and internal capsule in Kappa studies (κ = .45, 95% CI: .34‐.55 and κ = .47, 95% CI: .28‐.66), and M4 and internal capsule in ICC studies (ICC = .54, 95% CI: .43‐.64 and ICC = .55, 95% CI: .18‐.91) had the lowest agreement.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis demonstrates substantial to excellent interobserver agreement for total ASPECTS, which supports using this method for stroke treatment. However, findings emphasize the need to consider interobserver agreement in specific regions of ASPECTS for treatment decisions.
Comparison of diagnostic methods for detection of BRAFV600E mutation in ameloblastoma
Authors: Anbinselvam Arularasan , Akinshipo Abdul‐Warith O. , Adisa Akinyele O. , Effiom Olajumoke A. , Zhu Xinhe , Adebiyi Kehinde E. , Arotiba Godwin T. , Akintoye Sunday O.
Published: January 2024

Background

Ameloblastoma is an aggressively growing, highly recurrent odontogenic jaw tumor. Its association with BRAFV600E mutation is an indication for BRAFV00E‐inhibitor therapy The study objective was to identify a sensitive low‐cost test for BRAFV600E‐positive ameloblastoma. We hypothesized that immunohistochemical staining of formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissues for BRAFV600E mutation is a low‐cost surrogate for BRAFV600E gene sequencing when laboratory resources are inadequate for molecular testing.

Methods

Tissues from 40 ameloblastoma samples were retrieved from either formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded blocks, RNAlater™ stabilization solution or samples inadvertently pre‐fixed in formalin before transfer to RNAlater™. BRAFV600E mutation was assessed by Direct Sanger sequencing, Amplification Refractory Mutation System‐PCR and immunohistochemistry (IHC).

Results

BRAFV600E mutation was detected by IHC, Amplification Refractory Mutation System‐PCR and Direct Sanger sequencing in 93.33%, 52.5% and 30% of samples respectively. Considering Direct Sanger sequencing as standard BRAFV600E detection method, there was significant difference between the three detection methods (𝜒2 (2) = 31.34, p < 0.0001). Sensitivity and specificity of IHC were 0.8 (95% CI: 0.64–0.90) and 0.9 (95% CI: 0.75–0.99) respectively, while positive predictive value and negative predictive value (NPV) were 0.9 and 0.8 (Fischer's test, p < 0.0001) respectively. Sensitivity and specificity of Amplification Refractory Mutation System‐PCR detection method were 0.7 (95% CI: 0.53–0.80) and 0.9 (95% CI = 0.67–0.98) respectively, while PPV and NPV were 0.9 and 0.6 respectively (Fischer's test, p < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Low‐cost and less vulnerability of IHC to tissue quality make it a viable surrogate test for BRAFV600E detection in ameloblastoma. Sequential dual IHC and molecular testing for BRAFV600E will reduce equivocal results that could exclude some patients from BRAFV600E‐inhibitor therapies.
Enrofloxacin pharmacokinetics in yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco): A comparative analysis of oral, intramuscular, and bath administration
Authors: Jia Bofan , Zhao Yang , Deng Jianchao , Chen Shengjun , Li Chunsheng , Qi Bo , Hu Xiao , Li Laihao
Published: January 2024

Enrofloxacin (ENR) residues in yellow catfish (Pelteobagrus fulvidraco) often exceed the standard due to excessive use. This study explored the pharmacokinetics of ENR and its metabolite ciprofloxacin (CIP) in yellow catfish following a single dose of 10 mg/kg body weight via intramuscular injection (IM), oral gavage (PO), or a 5‐h drug bath at 10 mg/L and 25°C. High‐performance liquid chromatography‐mass spectrometry was used to determine the ENR and CIP concentrations in various tissues. The highest ENR concentration occurred with IM administration, peaking at 4.124 mg/L in the plasma, 8.359 mg/kg in the kidney, 6.272 mg/kg in the liver, and 5.192 mg/kg in the muscle. However, PO administration resulted in the longest metabolic time, with elimination half‐lives of 56.47 h in plasma, 86.43 h in the kidney, 76.25 h in the liver, and 64.75 h in muscle. Additionally, the area under the concentration–time curve values for IM, PO, and bath administration in yellow catfish plasma were 108.36, 88.96, and 22.08 mg·h/L, respectively. These results indicate the effectiveness of all three administration methods in treating bacterial diseases in yellow catfish. The selection of an appropriate administration method depends on the minimal inhibitory concentration of ENR against pathogenic bacteria. Yellow catfish subjected to PO and IM administration require longer resting periods before they can be marketed than those receiving drug bath administration.
Assessing the impact of dietary polystyrene nanoplastics on growth performance, immunological parameters, and antioxidant defense in zebrafish (Danio rerio)
Authors: Ahmadifar Ehsan , Shohreh Poulin , Kalhor Naser , Shahriari Moghadam Mohsen , Yilmaz Sevdan , Mohammadzadeh Sedigheh , Khajeh Mostafa , Abarghouei Safoura
Published: January 2024

This trial was performed in order to investigate the response of zebrafish (Danio rerio) to dietary exposure to polystyrene nanoplastics (PS‐NPs) under laboratory conditions on fish growth and health. Healthy zebrafish (n=240) were divided into 12 tanks and fed with diets including 0 (T0), 100 (T1), 500 (T2), and 1000 (T3) mg kg−1 synthesized polystyrenes nanoplastics (PS‐NPs) for 30 days. At the end of trial, fish fed the PS‐NPs supplementation showed weight gain percentages of 79.45%, 70.35%, and 61.88% for T1, T2, and T3 groups, respectively, compared with 87.39% in the control fish. The SOD, GPX and MDA activities and cortisol levels increased by 47%, 32% and 35% and 46%, respectively, especially at high‐dose administration (p < 0.05). The expression of GPX (T2‐81% and T3‐82%) and SOD (T2‐101% and T3‐187%) were remarkably upregulated in T2 and T3 groups. Moreover, the relative gene expression of HSP70, interleukin‐1 (IL1), Interferon γ (IFN‐γ) and tumor necrosis factor‐α (TNF‐α) increased by 178%, 202%, 154% and 307%, respectively, especially at high‐dose administration (p < 0.05). The results of the present study demonstrated that exposure to PS‐NPs especially at high concentrations (500 and 1000 mg kg−1 of diet) negatively influenced growth, health status‐, antioxidant‐, and immunity‐related gene expression responses of zebrafish.
Comparison of the eggshell mammillary microstructure of Galliformes and Anseriformes
Authors: Rosenberger Joanna , Pytlak Kamil
Published: January 2024

In free‐living species, the comparison of eggshell microstructure focus mainly on species representing extremely different reproductive strategies or with phylogenetically divergent taxa. The purpose of this study was to compare the microstructure of the mammillary layer in two bird orders (Galliformes and Anseriformes) representing phylogenetically close precocials, and to relate eggshell microstructure to female body weight and egg characteristics. The results showed significant differences between the studied orders. The mammillary layer in Galliformes had more knobs, and consequently, the percent coverage with them was higher than in Anseriformes. The size of individual knobs did not differ significantly between the orders. The obtained results are consistent with the reports that the ossification at the time of hatching is more advanced in Galliformes, so representatives of this order must resorb more calcium from the eggshell. Egg parameters and female body weight were correlated significantly negatively only with the number of knobs per mm2 for Anseriformes and, to a lesser extent, for Galliformes, but not with the coverage per cent of knobs or the size of individual knobs. Only for the three largest species, which lay proportionally larger eggs than the other species studied, the number of knobs per mm2 was significantly lower, but no difference was found in the per cent coverage of knobs. Our results showed that order was a stronger predictor of microstructure than species. Different ossification patterns of the embryonic skeletal system described in these two orders could be the explanation for the observed differences in eggshell microstructure; however, more research is needed.
Economic decline, ethnonationalism and civil war onset
Authors: Scarcelli Marc
Published: January 2024

Within the scholarship on the causes of civil wars, GDP per capita represents a strong and robust variable. Less attention, however, is paid to the role of economic decline. When it is included at all, scholars tend to consider it only in the period just prior to the onset of war. This paper argues that the impact of economic decline has been underestimated, for in addition to its short‐term effects, evidence from case studies reveals that a particular pattern is often evident during periods of sharp economic decline, in which ethnonationalist actors ascend in political power while scapegoating minority populations. The resulting increase in interethnic tensions raises the risk of large‐scale civil violence even many years after a major recession. The cases of Yugoslavia, Ivory Coast and India show the long‐term effects of a common exogenous shock‐ the global recession of the late 1970s‐ in the form of rising ethnonationalist political actors, setting the stage for large‐scale interethnic civil violence long after the initial economic shock.
Corticosteroid in IgA nephropathy with moderate proteinuria: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Yu , Yu Jianwen , Jiang Yu , Li Jianbo , Yimamuyushan Aikeda , Xia Xi , Fan Li , Huang Fengxian , Chen Wei , Liu Qinghua
Published: January 2024

Background

Corticosteroids remain contentious as a therapeutic option for IgA nephropathy. We conducted a retrospective cohort study to explore whether corticosteroid therapy is efficient and safe for IgAN patients with moderate proteinuria.

Methods

A total of 336 patients with renal biopsy‐confirmed IgAN, estimated glomerular filtration (eGFR) over 15 mL/min/1.73 m2 and urine protein levels of 0.75–3.5 g/d were enrolled. According to the treatment protocol, we classified the enrolled patients into two groups: one receiving corticosteroids and the other receiving supportive care. Complete remission, partial remission, and no remission were applied to describe the efficacy assessments. The endpoint was defined as a 40% reduction in eGFR, the onset of ESRD, or renal disease‐related death.

Results

Clinical and pathological progression risk factors were higher in corticosteroid‐treated individuals. Logistic regression analysis revealed that the corticosteroid group was considerably related to a higher remission rate after adjustment for confounding factors. The occurrence of serious adverse events between the two groups was not found to be statistically significantly different. Then, we matched 95 couples of patients with similar baseline levels in both groups by propensity score matching. The results showed that corticosteroid‐treated patients showed higher overall and complete remission rates than untreated patients. However, due to the relatively short follow‐up period, no significant differences in the incidence of endpoint and survival analyses have been observed thus far.

Conclusion

Corticosteroid therapy may benefit IgAN patients with moderate proteinuria via proteinuria reduction and renal function preservation.

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Practicalities of promoting practice‐based learning in end of life care for care home staff: Lessons from “online” supportive conversations and reflection sessions
Authors: Hockley Jo , Watson Julie , Johnston Lucy , Shenkin Susan D.
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Deaths in care homes and “at home” are anticipated to account for a third of UK deaths by 2040. Currently, palliative and end of life care are not part of statutory training in care homes. Reflective practice is a tool that can facilitate practice‐based learning and support. Following a feasibly study to test “online” supportive conversations and reflection sessions (OSCaRS) to support care home staff in relation to death/dying during the first months of the COVID pandemic, a one‐year practice development follow‐up project was undertaken with the aim to create a team of NHS/specialist palliative care (SPC)‐based facilitators to lead and support OSCaRS provision in up to 50 care homes in one region in Scotland—the focus of this paper.

Methods

Forty care home managers attended an on‐line session explaining the project, with a similar session held for 19 NHS/SPC‐based nurses external to care homes. Those interested in facilitating OSCaRS then attended three education sessions. Data collected: records of all activities; reflective notes on OSCaRS organised/delivered; a summary of each OSCaRS reflection/learning points; final interviews with NHS/SPC trainee facilitators.

Results

A total of 19 NHS/SPC facilitators delivered one or more OSCaRS in 22 participating care homes. However, as of January 2022 only six trained facilitators remained active. Out of the 158 OSCaRS arranged, 96 took place with a total of 262 staff attending. There were three important aspects that emerged: the role, remit, and resources of NHS/SPC supporting OSCaRS; requirements within care homes for establishing OSCaRS; and, the practice‐based learning topics discussed at each OSCaRS.

Conclusion

Attempts to establish a team of NHS/SPC facilitators to lead OSCaRS highlights that end of life care education in care homes does not clearly fall within the contractual remit of either group or risks being missed due to more pressing priorities.
Deep vein thrombosis and bilateral submassive pulmonary emboli post‐routine sinus lift: A case report and review of the literature
Authors: Kim Danny H. , Zhao Eric J. , Tong Nicholas , Yang David H.
Published: January 2024

Venous thromboembolism (VTE) arising after major oral surgery under general anaesthesia is an exceedingly rare occurrence, and under local anaesthesia even more so. We report a case of a 55‐year‐old male with a remote history of squamous cell carcinoma of the left tonsil, in remission, who developed deep vein thrombosis and bilateral pulmonary emboli after routine sinus lift under local anaesthetic. We discuss the diagnosis, risk factors, and the role of sinus lift in contributing to the onset of VTE in this report. We also discuss a role of potential thromboembolic prophylaxis in high‐risk patients undergoing dentoalveolar procedures under local anaesthetic.
Pay Attention to the Osteochondromas in Fibrodysplasia Ossificans Progressiva
Authors: Li Longqing , Lu Minxun , He Xuanhong , Zou Chang , Zheng Chuanxi , Wang Yitian , Tang Fan , Luo Yi , Zhou Yong , Min Li , Tu Chongqi
Published: January 2024

Background

Fibrodysplasia ossificans progressiva (FOP) is an extremely rare disease characterized by malformation of the bilateral great toes and progressive heterotopic ossification. The clinical features of FOP occur due to dysfunction of the bone morphogenetic protein (BMP) signaling pathway induced by the mutant activin A type I receptor/activin‐like kinase‐2 (ACVR1/ALK2) which contributes to the clinical features in FOP. Dysregulation of the BMP signaling pathway causes the development of osteochondroma. Poor awareness of the association between FOP and osteochondromas always results in misdiagnosis and unnecessary invasive operation.

Case Presentation

In this study, we present a case of classical FOP involving osteochondroma. An 18‐year‐old male adolescent, born with deformity of bilateral big toes, complained multiple masses on his back for 1 year. The mass initially emerged with a tough texture and did not cause pain. It was misdiagnosed as an osteochondroma. After two surgeries, the masses became hard and spread around the entire back region. Meanwhile, extensive heterotopic ossification was observed around the back, neck, hip, knee, ribs, and mandible during follow‐up. Osteochondromas were observed around the bilateral knees. No abnormalities were observed in the laboratory blood test results. Whole exome sequencing revealed missense mutation of ACVR1/ALK2 (c.617G > A; p.R206H) in the patient and confirmed the diagnosis of FOP.

Conclusion

In summary, classical FOP always behaves as a bilateral deformity of the big toes, as well as progressive ectopic ossification and osteochondromas in the distal femur and proximal tibia. An understanding of the association between osteochondromas and FOP aids in diagnosis and avoids unnecessary invasive management in patients.
A 3D urban scene reconstruction enhancement approach based on adaptive viewpoint selection of panoramic videos
Authors: Zhang Xujie , Hu Zhenbiao , Hu Qingwu , Zhao Jun , Ai Mingyao , Zhao Pengcheng , Li Jiayuan , Zhou Xiaojie , Chen Zongqiang
Published: January 2024

The widely used unmanned aerial vehicle oblique photogrammetry often suffers from information loss in complex urban environments, leading to geometric and textural defects in the resulting models. In this study, a close‐range panoramic optimal viewpoint selection assisted 3D urban scene reconstruction enhancement method is proposed for areas prone to defects. We first introduce the ground panoramic data acquisition equipment and strategy, which are different from those of the single‐lens supplementary photography method. Data acquisition is accomplished through a single and continuous surround‐style collection approach. The full coverage of the panoramic video in the space–time dimension enables the acquisition of texture details without considering camera station planning. Then, a panoramic multiview image generation approach is proposed. Adaptive viewpoint selection is achieved using unbiased sampling points from the rough scene model, and viewpoint optimisation is adopted to ensure sufficient image overlap and intersection effects, thus improving the scene reconstructability. Finally, the 3D model is generated by photogrammetric processing of the panoramic multiview images, resulting in an enhanced modelling effect. To validate the proposed method, we conducted experiments using real data from Qingdao, China. Both the qualitative and quantitative results demonstrate a significant improvement in the quality of geometric and textural reconstruction. The tie‐point reprojection errors are less than 1 pixel, and the registration accuracy with the model from oblique photogrammetry is comparable to that of optimised‐view photography. By eliminating the need for on‐site camera station planning or manual flight operations and effectively minimising the redundancy of panoramic videos, our approach significantly reduces the photography and computation costs associated with reconstruction enhancement. Thus, it presents a feasible technical solution for the generation of urban 3D fine models.
Enzymatically modified isoquercitrin and its protective effects against photoaging: In‐vitro and clinical studies
Authors: Bai Xue‐dong , Fei Wei‐cheng , Liu Yu‐chen , Yang Sheng‐ping
Published: January 2024

This research examines the anti‐aging potential of the flavonoid derivative of isoquercitrin known as enzymatically modified isoquercitrin (EMIQ). Initial HPLC analyses showed that EMIQ used in the study contained 1–12 glucosides and 10.7% pentahydroxyflavonoids, promising potent antioxidant properties. In subsequent in‐vitro studies with UVA‐exposed human dermal fibroblasts (HDFa), EMIQ demonstrated protective properties by reducing collagen damage. It modulated both the TGFβ/Smad pathway and the MMP1 pathway, contributing to collagen preservation. This protective effect was further confirmed using the T‐Skin™ model, a reconstructed full‐thickness human skin model, which illustrated that EMIQ could defend the physiological structures of both the epidermis and dermis against UV radiation. A 28‐day clinical trial with 30 volunteers aged 31–55 years highlighted EMIQ's effectiveness. Participants using EMIQ‐containing Essence displayed reduced facial trans‐epidermal water loss and skin roughness, alongside improved skin elasticity. This study emphasizes EMIQ's potential as an anti‐photoaging ingredient in cosmetics, warranting further research. The findings pave the way for developing innovative skincare products addressing photoaging effects.
Restoration promotes ecological functioning through greater complementarity
Authors: Rummell Ashley J. , Borland Hayden P. , Hazell Jackson J. , Mosman Jesse D. , Henderson Christopher J. , Leon Javier X. , Gilby Ben L. , Olds Andrew D.
Published: January 2024

Restoration projects are increasingly widespread and many promote habitat succession and the diversity and abundance of faunal communities. These positive effects on biodiversity and abundance may extend to enhancing the ecological functioning and resilience of previously degraded ecosystems, but this is rarely quantified. This study surveyed a 200‐ha restoring coastal wetland and three control wetlands in the Maroochy River, eastern Australia to compare the effects of wetland restoration on the consumption of carrion and the biodiversity, abundance, and functional diversity of functionally important fish and crustaceans. Carrion consumption by fish and crustaceans was measured every 6 months from spring 2017 until spring 2021 for nine events using a combination of baited cameras and scavenging assays. We found restoration improved rates of carrion consumption and the biodiversity, functional diversity, and abundance of scavenger species. Despite positive effects on the diversity of scavengers and carrion consumption, the abundance of two species, longfin eels (Anguilla reinhardtii) and mud crabs (Scylla serrata), was the most important predictors of carrion consumption rates. The spatial distribution of carrion consumption was concentrated in areas with high saltmarsh extent, moderate to high mangrove extent, and high salinity, which also resembled the distribution of both longfin eels and mud crabs. We show that restoration can promote the rates of key ecological functions but that increases to functions are likely to be characterized by low functional redundancy and greater complementarity. Therefore, maintaining or increasing the abundance of functionally important species should become a key objective in future restoration projects.
InsurTech in the United States and Germany—What are the drivers behind the different business models?
Authors: Oletzky Torsten
Published: January 2024

Comparing the InsurTech ecosystems of the United States and Germany (Europe), there are significant regional differences in the choice of business models. While many InsurTechs in the United States have opted for the business model of a fully licensed insurer, this business model is much less common in Europe. In Europe, many InsurTechs seem to shy away from applying for a license as an insurer and limit themselves to the business model of a broker or a managing general agent. This paper analyzes the factors that influence an InsurTech's choice of business model when deciding whether or not to apply for an insurance license. It examines the impact of different local market environments on these decisions, as well as the role that access to venture capital plays in business model decisions and how regulators and their actions influence the decision‐making process.
The expression and significance of PD‐L1 in condyloma acuminatum
Authors: Liu Yamei , Huang Weiqi , Yang Kun , Du Xiangxi , Guo Xueyun , Cao Yuchun
Published: January 2024

Background

It has been reported that programmed death‐ligand 1 (PD‐L1) is highly expressed in cells during viral infection, which helps the virus escape host immunity. However, the relationship between human papillomavirus (HPV) and PD‐L1 in condyloma acuminatum and whether they participate in immunosuppression have not been reported. In this paper, we aimed to explore the expression and significance of PD‐L1 in condyloma acuminatum.

Methods

The expression of PD‐L1 in the wart of condyloma acuminatum patients and the foreskin of healthy individuals was evaluated. Lentivirus transfection was used to introduce the HPV11‐E7 gene into HaCaT cells to investigate whether HPV infection could affect the expression of PD‐L1. The successfully constructed HPV11‐E7 HaCaT cells were cocultured with Jurkat cells, and Jurkat cell apoptosis and proliferation as well as the Jurkat cell cycle were evaluated by flow cytometry and cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assays.

Results

PD‐L1 was highly expressed in keratinocytes of genital warts. Through the construction of a cell model, we found that HPV11‐E7 could upregulate the expression of PD‐L1 in HaCaT cells. Furthermore, HPV11‐E7 HaCaT cells can promote the apoptosis of Jurkat cells, inhibit the proliferation of Jurkat cells and mediate the cell cycle arrest of Jurkat cells through the PD‐1/PD‐L1 signalling pathway.

Conclusions

HPV infection may upregulate PD‐L1 expression in the keratinocytes of genital warts and participate in the inhibition of local T‐cell function.
Phylogenomic reconstruction illuminates the evolutionary history of freshwater to marine transition in the subfamily Haloveliinae (Hemiptera: Heteroptera: Veliidae)
Authors: Ye Zhen , Jin Zezhong , Polhemus Dan A. , Wang Siqi , Fu Siying , Yang Huanhuan , Qiao Mu , Bu Wenjun
Published: January 2024

Water crickets of the subfamily Haloveliinae are semi‐aquatic bugs occurring in freshwater and marine habitats throughout the Indo‐Australian region, presently including six genera with more than 80 extant species. Whether lineage diversification in Haloveliinae is associated with the utilization of new ecological niches caused by transition events between freshwater and marine habitats remains poorly understood. We investigate the evolutionary history of Haloveliinae using large‐scale phylogenomic datasets and a set of novel redefined morphological characters based on 24 ingroup taxa representing all recognized genera. Our phylogenetic results based on the novel datasets definitively indicate that the freshwater genus Strongylovelia Esaki as currently defined is paraphyletic and supports the establishment of a new genus: Metavelia gen. nov., including three congeneric species: Metavelia patiooni comb. nov. (type species), Metavelia priori comb. nov. and Metavelia albicolli comb. nov. Reconstruction of ancestral habitats suggests a freshwater origin for the Haloveliinae. Divergence time estimations reveal that the origin of the monophyletic marine clade occurred at around 83 Ma (95% highest posterior density: 71–98 Ma) in the Late Cretaceous, involving a single transition event from freshwater to marine habitats. This time coincides with the period of high global sea levels in the Late Cretaceous. During this period, the marine incursions caused by the massive sea level rise flooded the continental margins, especially in Southeast Asia, where ancestral Haloveliinae were probably distributed. The appearance of new marine habitats after the marine incursions (e.g., intertidal, mangroves and estuarine) probably led to a subsequent establishment and diversification of the marine lineages.
Taxonomic and phylogenetic study of the subgenus Tricercandra in the genus Chloranthus (Chloranthaceae)
Authors: KANG Jong-Soo , YOO Ki-Oug
Published: January 2024

The genus Chloranthus consists of 17 taxa with the two subgenera Chloranthus and Tricercandra. These two subgenera can be distinguished by the morphology of the androecium. In South Korea, C. japonicus and C. fortunei of the subgenus Tricercandra are distributed. Although C. fortunei is typically not branched, a variant that branches from the stem has recently been discovered. Here, we conducted morphological and molecular phylogenetic analyses to elucidate the interspecific relationships within the subgenus Tricercandra and to evaluate the taxonomic position of the variant of C. fortunei. Morphological analyses revealed distinct differences among C. angustifolius, C. japonicus, C. fortunei, and the variant of C. fortunei. However, distinguishing between C. holostegius and C. nervosus was challenging. A principal component analysis also showed that while C. angustifolius, C. japonicus, C. fortunei, and the corresponding variant clustered independently, C. holostegius and C. nervosus overlapped, rendering them indistinguishable. Molecular phylogenetic studies using nuclear ribosomal internal transcribed spacer (nrITS) regions and three plastid regions, rbcL, rpl20-rps12, and trnL-F, revealed that the subgenus Tricercandra was monophyletic. Within the subgenus Tricercandra, C. angustifolius formed a sister clade with C. fortunei in the combined three plastid gene tree, while C. japonicus displayed different phylogenetic relationships between the nrITS and plastid gene trees. In addition, neither C. holostegius nor C. nervosus was monophyletic, consistent with the morphological analyses. The variant of C. fortunei formed an independent subclade on the nrITS tree but was not distinguished from other C. fortunei on the plastid gene tree. Our study elucidated clear species delimitation among C. angustifolius, C. japonicus, and C. fortunei and suggested key morphological characters useful for distinguishing them. Furthermore, our findings highlighted the ambiguous species delimitation and phylogenetic uncertainty between C. holostegius and C. nervosus. While we demonstrated morphological differences between the typical C. fortunei and its variant, the limited molecular phylogenetic evidence implies a need for further study.
Artemisia kargilensis (Asteraceae), a new species from Ladakh (Trans-Himalaya), India
Authors: ALI Liyaqat , KHUROO Anzar Ahmad , GANIE Aijaz Hassan , ISLAM Tajamul
Published: January 2024

A new species, Artemisia kargilensis, is described here from Ladakh (Trans-Himalaya), India. The new species can be distinguished from its allied congeners Artemisia salsoloides Willd. and A. saposhnikovii Krasch. ex Poljakov in having leaves sessile, leaf rachis winged, leaf segments linear to linear-lanceolate, capitula globose and upright, pedicel 2–5 mm long, bracteole linear, margins flat, apices acuminate, involucre 3-seriate, outermost phyllary ovate, innermost phyllary broadly obovate, number of marginal female florets 8–18, number of disc florets 16–28, and achenes obovoid.
Saussurea daeganensis (Compositae), a new species from Korea
Authors: SUN Eun-Mi , YUN Seon A , KIM Seung-Chul , KIM Won-Gi , IM Hyoung-Tak
Published: January 2024

Saussurea daeganensis, a new endemic species to Korea, is reported in this study. Among Korean Saussurea, S. daeganensis resembles S. macrolepis (Nakai) Kitam. S. grandifolia Maxim. and S. tanakae Franch. & Sav. ex Maxim. morphologically, i.e., in terms of the leaf shape, loose synflorescences, and tubular heads. Saussurea daeganensis, however, can be distinguished from other congeneric Korean Saussurea by having abaxially pale green glabrous leaves and purplish green on the middle and upper part of the phyllaries with an acute apex.
A new variety of Rubus (Rosaceae): Rubus takesimensis var. flavus
Authors: HYUN Jin Oh , JUNG Jongduk , NA Hye Ryun
Published: January 2024

A new variety of Rubus, Rubus takesimensis Nakai var. flavus J. O. Hyun & B. T. Jang (Rosaceae), was discovered on Ulleungdo Island, Korea. This variety is different as it has yellow fruits and yellow-green branchlets and leaves compared to Rubus takesimensis var. takesimensis.
Carex chromosome numbers from Korean populations (eight taxa)
Authors: LEE Woong , CHUNG Kyong-Sook
Published: January 2024

Carex L. is the most species-rich genus in Korean flora (ca. 180 taxa) as well as worldwide (more than 2,000 species). One of the hypotheses explaining high species diversity in the genus is holocentric chromosomes, which miss constricted centromeres during cell divisions; chromosome fission and fusion events are possible. To provide fundamental biological information, we report the meiotic chromosomes of eight Carex taxa investigated from twelve populations, which include four Ulleung-do Island (oceanic island) populations. The taxa and chromosome numbers observed were C. augustinawiczkii (n = 27II), C. bostrychostigma (n = 22II), C. egena (n = 25II), C. fusanensis (n = 21II), C. japonica (n = 31II, 32II), C. maackii (n = 37 II ), C. mollicula (n = 32II), and C. pediformis var. pedunculata (n = 36II). Chromosome numbers of C. augustinawiczkii, C. egena, C. fusanensis (a Korean endemic), and C. pediformis var. pedunculata are revealed for the first time. C. japonica from Ulleung-do Island populations exhibits two chromosome numbers, which differ from the chromosome numbers reported from the Korean mainland (peninsula). More chromosome data are required to understand Carex species diversity in Korean flora.
Physiological assessment of a 16 day, 4385 km ultra‐endurance mountain bike race: A case study
Authors: Hyldahl Robert D. , Gifford Jayson R. , Davidson Lance E. , Hancock Chad R. , Hafen Paul S. , Parcell Allen C. , Mack Gary W.
Published: January 2024

The Tour Divide (TD) is a 4385 km ultra‐endurance bicycle race that follows the continental divide from Canada to Mexico. In this case study, we performed a comprehensive molecular and physiological profile before and after the completion of the TD. Assessments were performed 35 days before the start (Pre‐TD) and ∼36 h after the finish (Post‐TD). Total energy expenditure was assessed during the first 9 days by doubly labelled water (2H218O), abdominal and leg tissue volumes via MRI, and graded exercise tests to quantify fitness and substrate preference. Vastus lateralis muscle biopsies were taken to measure mitochondrial function via respirometry, and vascular function was assessed using Doppler ultrasound. The 47‐year‐old male subject took 16 days 7 h 45 min to complete the route. He rode an average of 16.8 h/day. Neither maximal O2 uptake nor maximal power output changed pre‐ to post‐TD. Measurement of total energy expenditure and dietary recall records suggested maintenance of energy balance, which was supported by the lack of change in body weight. The subject lost both appendicular and trunk fat mass and gained leg lean mass pre‐ to post‐TD. Skeletal muscle mitochondrial and vascular endothelial function decreased pre‐ to post‐TD. Overall, exercise performance was maintained despite reductions in muscle mitochondrial and vascular endothelial function post‐TD, suggesting a metabolic reserve in our highly trained athlete.
Two rare variants that affect the same amino acid in CFTR have distinct responses to ivacaftor
Authors: Li Hongyu , Rodrat Mayuree , Al‐Salmani Majid K. , Veselu Diana‐Florentina , Han Sangwoo T. , Raraigh Karen S. , Cutting Garry R. , Sheppard David N.
Published: January 2024

Some residues in the cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) channel are the site of more than one CFTR variant that cause cystic fibrosis. Here, we investigated the function of S1159F and S1159P, two variants associated with different clinical phenotypes, which affect the same pore‐lining residue in transmembrane segment 12 that are both strongly potentiated by ivacaftor when expressed in CFBE41o− bronchial epithelial cells. To study the single‐channel behaviour of CFTR, we applied the patch‐clamp technique to Chinese hamster ovary cells heterologously expressing CFTR variants incubated at 27°C to enhance channel residence at the plasma membrane. S1159F‐ and S1159P‐CFTR formed Cl− channels activated by cAMP‐dependent phosphorylation and gated by ATP that exhibited thermostability at 37°C. Both variants modestly reduced the single‐channel conductance of CFTR. By severely attenuating channel gating, S1159F‐ and S1159P‐CFTR reduced the open probability (Po) of wild‐type CFTR by ≥75% at ATP (1 mM); S1159F‐CFTR caused the greater decrease in Po consistent with its more severe clinical phenotype. Ivacaftor (10–100 nM) doubled the Po of both CFTR variants without restoring Po values to wild‐type levels, but concomitantly, ivacaftor decreased current flow through open channels. For S1159F‐CFTR, the reduction of current flow was marked at high (supersaturated) ivacaftor concentrations (0.5–1 μM) and voltage‐independent, identifying an additional detrimental action of elevated ivacaftor concentrations. In conclusion, S1159F and S1159P are gating variants, which also affect CFTR processing and conduction, but not stability, necessitating the use of combinations of CFTR modulators to optimally restore their channel activity.

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Key points

Dysfunction of the ion channel cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) causes the genetic disease cystic fibrosis (CF).

This study investigated two rare pathogenic CFTR variants, S1159F and S1159P, which affect the same amino acid in CFTR, to understand the molecular basis of disease and response to the CFTR‐targeted therapy ivacaftor.

Both rare variants diminished CFTR function by modestly reducing current flow through the channel and severely inhibiting ATP‐dependent channel gating with S1159F exerting the stronger adverse effect, which correlates with its association with more severe disease.

Ivacaftor potentiated channel gating by both rare variants without restoring their activity to wild‐type levels, but concurrently reduced current flow through open channels, particularly those of S1159F‐CFTR.

Our data demonstrate that S1159F and S1159P cause CFTR dysfunction by multiple mechanisms that require combinations of CFTR‐targeted therapies to fully restore channel function.
Online adaptive identification of multichannel systems for audio applications
Authors: Pagès Guilhem , Longo Roberto , Simon Laurent , Melon Manuel
Published: January 2024

Impulse responses (IRs) estimation of multi-input acoustic systems is a prerequisite for many audio applications. In this paper, an adaptive identification problem based on the Autostep algorithm is extended to the simultaneous estimation of room IRs for multiple input single output linear time invariant systems without any a priori information. To do so, the proposed algorithm is initially evaluated in a simulated room with several sound sources active at the same time. Finally, an experimental validation is proposed for the cases of a semi-anechoic chamber and an arbitrary room. Special attention is dedicated to the algorithm convergence behavior, considering different meta parameters settings. Results are eventually compared with the other normalized version of the least mean square algorithm.
Inhibition of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
quorum sensing by chemical induction of the MexEF-oprN efflux pump
Authors: Kristensen Rasmus , Andersen Jens Bo , Rybtke Morten , Jansen Charlotte Uldahl , Fritz Blaine Gabriel , Kiilerich Rikke Overgaard , Uhd Jesper , Bjarnsholt Thomas , Qvortrup Katrine , Tolker-Nielsen Tim , Givskov Michael , Jakobsen Tim Holm
Published: January 2024

The cell-to-cell communication system quorum sensing (QS), used by various pathogenic bacteria to synchronize gene expression and increase host invasion potentials, is studied as a potential target for persistent infection control. To search for novel molecules targeting the QS system in the Gram-negative opportunistic pathogen
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, a chemical library consisting of 3,280 small compounds from LifeArc was screened. A series of 10 conjugated phenones that have not previously been reported to target bacteria were identified as inhibitors of QS in
P. aeruginosa
. Two lead compounds (ethylthio enynone and propylthio enynone) were re-synthesized for verification of activity and further elucidation of the mode of action. The isomeric pure Z-ethylthio enynone was used for RNA sequencing, revealing a strong inhibitor of QS-regulated genes, and the QS-regulated virulence factors rhamnolipid and pyocyanin were significantly decreased by treatment with the compounds. A transposon mutagenesis screen performed in a newly constructed
lasB-gfp
monitor strain identified the target of Z-ethylthio enynone in
P. aeruginosa
to be the MexEF-OprN efflux pump, which was further established using defined
mex
knockout mutants. Our data indicate that the QS inhibitory capabilities of Z-ethylthio enynone were caused by the drainage of intracellular signal molecules as a response to chemical-induced stimulation of the MexEF-oprN efflux pump, thereby inhibiting the autogenerated positive feedback and its enhanced signal-molecule synthesis.
Proinflammatory CD14
high
CD16
low
monocytes/macrophages prevail in
Treponema phagedenis-
associated bovine digital dermatitis
Authors: Lahiri Priyoshi , Arrazuria Rakel , Tan Yi Lin , De Buck Jeroen , Hollenberg Morley D. , Orsel Karin , Cobo Eduardo R.
Published: January 2024

Digital dermatitis (DD) is a skin disease in cattle characterized by painful inflammatory ulcerative lesions in the feet, mostly associated with local colonization by
Treponema
spp., including
Treponema phagedenis
. The reason why most DD lesions remain actively inflamed and progress to chronic conditions despite antibiotic treatment remains unknown. Herein, we show an abundant infiltration of proinflammatory (CD14
high
CD16
low
) monocytes/macrophages in active DD lesions, a skin response that was not mitigated by topical treatment with oxytetracycline. The associated bacterium,
T. phagedenis
, isolated from DD lesions in cattle, when injected subcutaneously into mice, induced abscesses with a local recruitment of Ly6G
+
neutrophils and proinflammatory (Ly6C
high
CCR2
+
) monocytes/macrophages, which appeared at infection onset (4 days post challenge) and persisted for at least 7 days post challenge. When exploring the ability of macrophages to regulate inflammation, we showed that bovine blood-derived macrophages challenged with live
T. phagedenis
or its structural components secreted IL-1β via a mechanism dependent on the NLRP3 inflammasome. This study shows that proinflammatory characteristics of monocytes/macrophages and neutrophils dominate active non-healing ulcerative lesions in active DD, thus likely impeding wound healing after antibiotic treatment.