bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparing letrozole and mifepristone pre‐treatment in medical management of first trimester missed miscarriage: a prospective open‐label non‐inferiority randomised controlled trial
Authors: Du Libei , Li Hang Wun Raymond , Gemzell‐Danielsson Kristina , Zhang Zhiqiang , Du Yanhong , Zhang Wenju , Xu Bo , Wang Xiaozhong , Wang Yaokai , Wan Wenjuan , Chang Ying , Diao Weiyu , Wang Yanli , Zhang Li , Ho Pak Chung
Published: September 2023

Objective

To investigate whether letrozole pre‐treatment is non‐inferior to mifepristone pre‐treatment, followed by misoprostol, for complete evacuation in the medical treatment of first‐trimester missed miscarriage.

Design

Prospective open‐label non‐inferiority randomised controlled trial.

Setting

A university‐affiliated hospital.

Population

We recruited 294 women diagnosed with first‐trimester missed miscarriage who opted for medical treatment.

Methods

Participants were randomly assigned to: (i) the mifepristone group, who received 200 mg mifepristone orally followed 24–48 h later by 800 μg misoprostol vaginally; or (ii) the letrozole group, who received 10 mg letrozole orally once‐a‐day for 3 days, followed by 800 μg misoprostol vaginally on the third (i.e. last) day of letrozole administration.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome was the rate of complete evacuation without surgical intervention at 42 days post‐treatment. Secondary outcomes included induction‐to‐expulsion interval, adverse effects, women's satisfaction, number of doses of misoprostol required, duration of vaginal bleeding, pain score on the day of misoprostol administration and other adverse events.

Results

The complete evacuation rates were 97.8% (95% CI 95.1%–100%) and 97.2% (95% CI 94.4%–99.9%) in the letrozole and mifepristone groups, respectively (p ≤ 0.001 for non‐inferiority). The mean induction‐to‐tissue expulsion interval in the letrozole group was longer compared with the mifepristone group (15.4 vs 9.0 h) (p = 0.03). The letrozole group had less heavy post‐treatment bleeding and an earlier return of menses. There were no statistically significant differences in the number of doses of misoprostol required, the duration of vaginal bleeding, the pain score on the day of misoprostol administration and the rate of other adverse events between the two groups. The majority of the women (91.2% and 93.9% in the letrozole and mifepristone groups, respectively) were satisfied with their treatment option.

Conclusions

Letrozole is non‐inferior to mifepristone as a pre‐treatment, followed by misoprostol, for the medical treatment of first‐trimester missed miscarriage.
Personality predicting relapse: A facet analysis of the NEO PI‐R
Authors: Faltushanskiy Zalman , Herrold Amy A. , Werby Jasper , Betteridge Eliza M. , Angres Daniel
Published: September 2023

Background and Objectives

Revised NEO Personality Inventory (NEO PI‐R) domains are associated with substance use disorders (SUD), including potential for relapse. However, individual facets of the NEO PI‐R domains have not been rigorously analyzed. This paper assesses NEO PI‐R individual facets among participants with SUD and their value in predicting relapse.

Methods

Between 2015 and 2018, all patients admitted to a single private rehabilitation center (n = 642) were offered participation in this study. Participants who completed NEO PI‐R questionnaires at the start of treatment and with known relapse outcomes up to 1‐year posttreatment were included (n = 441). Statistical analysis included a series of unadjusted univariate logistic regressions and additional adjusted multivariate regression controlling for employment status in healthcare.

Results

Neuroticism, Agreeableness, and Conscientiousness domains had significant impacts on relapse. Three individual facets of Neuroticism were significant predictors of relapse, and seven individual facets within the Conscientiousness and Agreeableness domains were inversely related to relapse. When controlling for employment, Conscientiousness and three of its individual facets (Dutifulness, Competence, and Self‐Discipline) continued to be significant in predicting relapse. The individual facets Impulsiveness and Straightforwardness also continued to be significant in predicting relapse.

Conclusions and Scientific Significance

Several personality domains and facets were significantly related to relapse, confirming and expanding on prior literature. This study focuses on the risk of relapse as it relates to NEO PI‐R individual facets, which have not been previously explored with a sample size of this magnitude. These findings can guide clinical care of patients with SUD, allowing for more targeted treatment.
What is the nature, extent and impact of bullying in surgical settings? Insights of surgeons in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand
Authors: Gretton‐Watson Paul , Oakman Jodi , Leggat Sandra G.
Published: September 2023

Background

A significant body of literature has examined the impact of verbal and non‐verbal bullying in surgical settings, where a central focus has been on the experiences of trainee and junior members of the surgical team, women in surgery and other health professionals, such as nurses. Research on how surgeons' perceive or experience bullying is more limited. Therefore, this study aims to investigate the views of surgeons on negative and disrespectful verbal and non‐verbal behaviour and bullying in surgical settings, including its impact on surgeons themselves and the surgical staff they oversee.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were undertaken with surgeons between February and November 2019. Questions explored surgeons' perceptions of interpersonal communication and behaviour in their surgical workplaces in the preceding 6‐months. A narrative analysis approach was used to code, interpret, and report the interview data.

Results

Thirty‐one interviews were conducted with surgeons (19 male and 12 female), from Australia (26) and Aotearoa New Zealand (5) from 10 surgical specialties. Three themes were identified with associated subthemes: bullying (five subthemes), non‐verbal bullying (seven subthemes), and impact and outcomes of bullying (six subthemes).

Conclusion

This study revealed a notable shift in the reported verbal and non‐verbal bullying behaviour among surgeons, demonstrating a decrease in intensity, physicality and violence for the 6‐months prior to interviews conducted in 2019, when compared with surgeons' historic experiences. Despite reported behaviour being more subtle and indirect, it nonetheless continues to have a marked impact on many surgeons as well as the staff they oversee.
Eye‐tracking in surgery: a systematic review
Authors: Bapna Tanay , Valles John , Leng Samantha , Pacilli Maurizio , Nataraja Ramesh Mark
Published: September 2023

Background

Surgery is constantly evolving with the assistance of rapidly developing novel technology. Eye‐tracking devices provide opportunities to monitor the acquisition of surgical skills, gain insight into performance, and enhance surgical practice. The aim of this review was to consolidate the available evidence for the use of eye‐tracking in the surgical disciplines.

Methods

A systematic literature review was conducted in accordance with PRISMA guidelines. A search of OVID Medline, EMBASE, Cochrane library, Scopus, and Science Direct was conducted January 2000 until December 2022. Studies involving eye‐tracking in surgical training, assessment and technical innovation were included in the review. Non‐surgical procedures, animal studies, and studies not involving surgical participants were excluded from the review.

Results

The search returned a total of 12 054 articles, 80 of which were included in the final analysis and review. Seventeen studies involved eye‐tracking in surgical training, 48 surgical assessment, and 20 were focussing on technical aspects of this technology. Twenty‐six different eye‐tracking devices were used in the included studies. Metrics such as the number of fixations, duration of fixations, dwell time, and cognitive workload were able to differentiate between novice and expert performance. Eight studies demonstrated the effectiveness of gaze‐training for improving surgical skill.

Conclusion

The current literature shows a broad range of utility for a variety of eye‐tracking devices in surgery. There remains a lack of standardization for metric parameters and gaze analysis techniques. Further research is required to validate its use to establish reliability and create uniform practices.
Epidemiology of spontaneous pregnancy loss in Kazakhstan: A national population‐based cohort analysis during 2014–2019 using the national electronic healthcare system
Authors: Sakko Yesbolat , Turesheva Akbayan , Gaipov Abduzhappar , Aimagambetova Gulzhanat , Ukybassova Talshyn , Marat Aizada , Kaldygulova Lyazzat , Amanzholkyzy Ainur , Nogay Anastassiya , Khamidullina Zaituna , Mussenov Yerlan , Almawi Wassim Y. , Atageldiyeva Kuralay
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Spontaneous pregnancy loss (SPL) is a common health problem that affects 1:10 of childbearing women, and is linked with physical and psychological complications. As the number of nationwide studies on the incidence of SPL is few, especially from middle‐income countries, in this study we investigated the epidemiology, complications and outcomes of SPL before 22 weeks of gestation by analyzing large‐scale healthcare data from the Unified Nationwide Electronic Healthcare System (UNEHS) in Kazakhstan.

Material and methods

A population‐based study among women who experienced SPL in any healthcare setting of the Republic of Kazakhstan during the period of 2014–2019. The International Classification of Diseases (ICD) 10th edition and ICD 9th edition's procedural codes were utilized to retrieve data using relevant diagnostic and procedural codes.

Results

In total, 207 317 records of women who have experienced an SPL before 22 weeks of gestation were analyzed from all Kazakhstani regions. The estimated prevalence of SPL was 8.7%, with a 20% decline over a 6‐year period. The SPL cases ratio comprises on average 6.2 per 1000 reproductive‐age women. Incomplete miscarriage (ICD‐10 code “O03.4”) was the most common type (37.8%), followed by blighted ovum (ICD‐10 code “O02.0”; 34.1%) and missed abortion (ICD‐10 code “O02.1”; 13.5%). The most common management methods were dilation and curettage of the uterus (ICD‐9 code “69.0”; 84.7%) and aspiration curettage of the uterus (ICD‐9 code “65.0”; 15%), whereas medical management was rarely performed (2.6%).

Conclusion

The information available in UNEHS adequately identifies types of miscarriages and treatment methods. Although the prevalence of SPL before 22 weeks of gestation is decreasing, management of miscarriages requires closer attention.
Erythrocyte transfusions are associated with retinopathy of prematurity in extremely low gestational age newborns
Authors: Glaser Kirsten , Härtel Christoph , Dammann Olaf , Herting Egbert , Andres Oliver , Speer Christian P. , Göpel Wolfgang , Stahl Andreas ,   the German Neonatal Network
Published: September 2023

Aim

Retinopathy of prematurity (ROP) is a major morbidity in preterm infants causing visual impairment including blindness. Prevention and timely treatment are critical. We investigated the potential role of red blood cell (RBC) transfusions as risk factor for ROP development.

Methods

Retrospective cohort study of data from 68 tertiary level neonatal intensive care units in Germany. Preterm infants born at 22 + 0 to 28 + 6 weeks of gestation between January 2009 and December 2021 were enrolled.

Results

We included n = 12 565 infants. Prevalence of any ROP was 49.2% with most infants being diagnosed with stage 1 (21.5%) and 2 disease (17.2%). ROP stage 3 was present in 10.2%, stage 4 in 0.3%, and ROP requiring treatment in 6.6%. Infants with ROP had significantly more frequently a history of RBC transfusions. Adjusting for confounders, RBC transfusions were associated with increased odds of ROP (OR 1.4, p < 0.001), ROP progression (OR 2.1, p < 0.01) and ROP requiring treatment (OR 3.6, p < 0.001). Restrictive transfusion approaches correlated with decreased (OR 0.7, p < 0.001), liberal regimes with increased odds (OR 1.2, p = 0.001).

Conclusion

The present study confirmed an association of RBC transfusions and ROP. Our findings emphasise the need for anaemia prevention and critical re‐evaluation of transfusion practices in preterm infants.
The relationship of affective and bodily states with goals and plans to increase physical activity: An 8‐day study in students
Authors: Braun Maya , Schroé Helene , Van Dyck Delfien , Crombez Geert , De Paepe Annick L.
Published: September 2023

Planning is an important tool to translate intentions into physical activity (PA) behavior. Affective and bodily states are known to influence how much PA individuals perform, but their impact on to formulation of PA plans is not yet known. The aim of the current study is to explore the effect of within‐ and between‐subject variations in affective and bodily states on the content of PA goals and plans. Over eight consecutive days, 362 students created action and coping plans to achieve their daily PA goals. They also reported their affective and bodily states. Generalized linear mixed effect models were used to analyze the associations between these states and the content of the goals and plans. The results showed that both between‐ and within‐subject variations in affective and bodily states were associated with goals formulated in terms of minutes, the intensity and context of planned activities, and anticipated barriers, though more effects were found for within‐subject differences. Affective and bodily states impact daily PA goals and plans, highlighting the dynamic nature of planning. Our findings can be a first step toward personalized suggestions for goals, action plans, and coping strategies that are based on individual affective and bodily states.
Randomised clinical trial: Faecal microbiota transplantation for irritable bowel syndrome with diarrhoea
Authors: Yau Yuk Kam , Su Qi , Xu Zhilu , Tang Whitney , Ching Jessica Y. L. , Mak Joyce Wing Yan , Cheung Chun Pan , Fung Matthew , Ip Margaret , Chan Paul Kay Sheung , Wu Justin Che Yuen , Chan Francis Ka Leung , Ng Siew C.
Published: September 2023

Background

Faecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) has been shown to improve symptoms in a proportion of patients with irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Aim

We performed a randomised trial to assess the efficacy of FMT in patients with IBS.

Methods

We randomised 56 patients with diarrhoea‐predominant IBS 1:1 to FMT or placebo via the duodenal route at baseline and week 4. The primary outcome was > 50 points decrease in IBS severity scoring system (IBS‐SSS) score at week 12. Secondary outcomes were improvement in bloating and change in gut microbiota at week 12. After 12‐week follow‐up, those in the placebo group were assigned to receive open‐label FMT.

Results

At week 12, 57.1% in the FMT group and 46.4% in the placebo group achieved the primary endpoint (p = 0.42). More patients receiving FMT than placebo had improvement in bloating (72% vs 30%; p = 0.005). In an open‐label extension, 65.2% and 82.4% of patients achieved, respectively, the primary endpoint and improvement in bloating. Faecal microbiome of patients in the FMT group showed a reduction in bacteria like Ruminococcus gnavus and enrichment of bacteria such as Lawsonibacter at week 12, while no change in the placebo group. Functional analyses showed that the hydrogen sulphide‐producing pathway decreased in patients who had FMT (p < 0.05) accompanied by a reduction in contributing bacteria. There were no serious adverse events related to FMT.

Conclusion

FMT performed twice at an interval of four weeks did not significantly reduce IBS‐SSS score. However, more patients had improvement in abdominal bloating, which was associated with a reduction in hydrogen sulphide‐producing bacteria. (ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03125564).
Bone marrow transplantation in the United Kingdom – past, present and future
Authors: Barrett John , Craddock Charles
Published: September 2023

Bone marrow transplantation (BMT) has evolved over the last 60 years from a pioneering treatment fraught with unknown factors and complications to a widely practiced standard of care that has saved the lives of countless individuals with malignant and non‐malignant conditions. Over this period, transplanters in the UK have made a significant international contribution to the field through cutting edge clinical and laboratory research. Today, stem cell transplantation in the UK continues to advance through rigorous and innovative clinical trials which focus on improving outcome by reducing transplant toxicity and the risk of disease relapse. In this review, we start with a personal view of the early years of BMT in the UK, document the many seminal accomplishments in the field of BMT which took place in the UK, and end with a look towards the future of BMT, in the UK and worldwide.
CAR‐T cell therapy in paediatric acute lymphoblastic leukaemia – past, present and future
Authors: Rogosic Srdan , Ghorashian Sara
Published: September 2023

Over the last decade, chimeric antigen receptor (CAR)‐T cell therapy has emerged as a promising treatment modality for relapsed/refractory B‐cell malignancies in both children and adults. As an adoptive immune therapy, CAR‐T cells have the potential to overcome disease that is resistant to chemo‐ and radiotherapy as well as represent a viable option for those who have already reached toxicity ceilings with standard therapies. CD19‐directed CAR‐T cell products have been licensed for use in paediatric B‐cell acute lymphoblastic leukaemia that is refractory, in relapse post‐transplant or in second or later relapse. Many challenges remain, rightly resulting in a heavily‐mined research field. These include mitigating short‐term immune‐mediated toxicity, maintaining durability of responses, broadening treatment accessibility and extending its applicability to other malignant settings. In this review, dedicated to marking 60 years since the establishment of the British Society for Haematology, we will focus on the contribution of our community towards the success of CD19‐directed CAR‐T cell therapy in children. We will put current practice in CAR‐T cell therapy into the context of future challenges to be addressed in order for it to fulfil its “game‐changing” therapeutic potential.
Early clinical trials in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia in the UK
Authors: Catovsky Daniel , Else Monica
Published: September 2023

This is an historical account of the randomised trials in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia in the UK between the years 1978 to 2004, describing their gestation, the treatments used and the main lessons learnt. Those lessons include: (1) how best to use chlorambucil, which was the first effective treatment for CLL; (2) the significant difference in survival between the sexes; and (3) the value of prognostic markers, both morphological and molecular, which continue to be relevant to current practice.
A randomized trial of holmium laser vs thulium laser vs bipolar enucleation of large prostate glands
Authors: Shoma Ahmed M. , Ghobrial Fady K. , El‐Tabey Nasr , El‐Hefnawy Ahmed S. , El‐Kappany Hamdy A.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To compare the outcome and morbidity of bipolar transurethral enucleation of the prostate (B‐TUEP) and thulium laser enucleation of the prostate (ThuLEP) with those of holmium laser enucleation of the prostate (HoLEP) in the treatment of large symptomatic benign prostatic obstruction (BPO) through a non‐inferiority randomized controlled trial (NCT03916536).

Patients and Methods

A total of 155 patients were recruited from a single centre between February 2019 and August 2020. All had BPO, with a prostate volume ≥80 ml. Patients were randomly assigned to HoLEP, ThuLEP or B‐TUEP using computer‐generated random tables in a 1:1:1 ratio. Participants, investigators and surgeons were blinded to group assignment until the date of the operation. Thereafter, the patients were followed up at 1, 3, 6 and 12 months. The primary outcome was maximum urinary flow rate (Qmax) at 6 months. Secondary outcomes included assessment of other functional urinary variables, peri‐operative records, and adverse events.

Results

There were 138 and 120 patients available for analysis at 6 and 12 months. There was no significant difference in Qmax between the groups at 6 and 12 months (P = 0.4 and P = 0.7, respectively), and no significant difference regarding International Prostate Symptom Score (IPSS), quality of life (QoL) or postvoid residual urine volume (PVR). The median (interquartile range) prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) reductions (ng/ml) were similar in the three groups at last follow‐up point (4.7 [2.2–7.1]; 5.6 [2.3–9.5] and 5 [3.4–10] after HoLEP, ThuLEP and B‐TUEP, respectively). Differences in enucleation time, enucleation efficiencies and auxiliary manoeuvres were statistically insignificant (P = 0.1, 0.8 and 0.07, respectively). At 1 year, patients with prostate volumes >120 ml showed significant IPSS improvement in favour of HoLEP and ThuLEP (P = 0.01). Low‐ and high‐grade adverse effects were recorded in 31 and five cases, respectively, with no statistically significant difference between the groups.

Conclusions

We conclude that ThuLEP and B‐TUEP are as safe and effective as HoLEP for the treatment of large‐sized BPO. Significant PSA reductions indicate that there was effective adenoma enucleation with all three approaches. The study provides objective evidence that endoscopic enucleation of the prostate is a technique rather than energy dependent procedure.
Anticipating anthropogenic threats in acquiring new protected areas
Authors: Albers Heidi J. , Chang Charlotte H. , Dissanayake Sahan T. M. , Helmstedt Kate J. , Kroetz Kailin , Dilkina Bistra , Zapata‐Mor´an Irene , Nolte Christoph , Ochoa‐Ochoa Leticia M. , Spencer Gwen
Published: September 2023

Biodiversity continues to decline despite protected area expansion and global conservation commitments. Biodiversity losses occur in existing protected areas, yet common methods used to select protected areas ignore postimplementation threats that reduce effectiveness. We developed a conservation planning framework that considers the ongoing anthropogenic threats within protected areas when selecting sites and the value of planning for costly threat‐mitigating activities (i.e., enforcement) at the time of siting decisions. We applied the framework to a set of landscapes that contained the range of possible correlations between species richness and threat. Accounting for threats and implementing enforcement activities increased benefits from protected areas without increasing budgets. Threat information was valuable in conserving more species per spending level even without enforcement, especially on landscapes with randomly distributed threats. Benefits from including threat information and enforcement were greatest when human threats peaked in areas of high species richness and were lowest where human threats were negatively associated with species richness. Because acquiring information on threats and using threat‐mitigating activities are costly, our findings can guide decision‐makers regarding the settings in which to pursue these planning steps.
Nickel release from hairdressing tools in the United States
Authors: Chan Cynthia X. , Hamann Carsten R.
Published: September 2023

Background

Hairdressers have a high prevalence of contact dermatitis, especially to nickel. The presence of nickel in hairdressing tools has been evaluated in the European Union, where the government limits nickel release levels from objects.

Objectives

The aim of this study is to qualitatively investigate nickel release in hairdresser tools in both rural and urban United States, a country without nickel release legislation.

Methods

Hairdressers and individuals with hairdressing tools were invited to participate. Metallic parts of each tool were tested with dimethylglyoxime (DMG), which detects nickel release. Data on tool cost were recorded.

Results

A total of 89 tools from 9 salons and 2 over‐the‐counter sets were tested. Twenty‐four (27%) tested positive: trimmers (100%), curling irons (100%), clippers (50%), hair clips (36%), texturizing shears (26%), and trimming shears (4%). Nickel was detected in both salon and over‐the‐counter tools, and rural and urban salons. Nickel‐releasing tools were cheaper than DMG‐negative tools of the same type.

Conclusions

Our findings help explain the high prevalence of contact dermatitis among hairdressers, alert clinicians to consider occult occupational nickel when assessing patients with allergic contact dermatitis, reinforces the importance of using barrier protection including gloves when handling hairdressing tools including at home, and augments impetus for more legislation regulating common allergens.
Are Natural Kind Terms Ambiguous?
Authors: Haukioja Jussi , Toorman Jeske , Baggio Giosuè , Jylkkä Jussi
Published: September 2023

Recent experimental studies have claimed to find evidence for the view that natural kind terms such as “water” are ambiguous: that they have two extensions, one determined by superficial properties, the other by underlying essence. In an online experiment, we presented to 600 participants scenarios describing discoveries of novel samples that differ in deep structure from samples of a familiar kind but are superficially identical, such as a water‐like substance that is not composed of H2O. We used three different types of question sets to probe whether the participants considered the sample as a member of the kind or not. Our results did not confirm the predictions of the ambiguity view. They were, rather, consistent with views that take underlying essences to be the sole criterion for membership in a natural kind.
Artificial intelligence evaluation of coronary computed tomography angiography for coronary stenosis classification and diagnosis
Authors: Lee Dan‐Ying , Chang Chun‐Chin , Ko Chieh‐Fu , Lee Yin‐Hao , Tsai Yi‐Lin , Chou Ruey‐Hsing , Chang Ting‐Yung , Guo Shu‐Mei , Huang Po‐Hsun
Published: September 2023

Background

Ruling out obstructive coronary artery disease (CAD) using coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) is time‐consuming and challenging. This study developed a deep learning (DL) model to assist in detecting obstructive CAD on CCTA to streamline workflows.

Methods

In total, 2929 DICOM files and 7945 labels were extracted from curved planar reformatted CCTA images. A modified Inception V3 model was adopted. To validate the artificial intelligence (AI) model, two cardiologists labelled and adjudicated the classification of coronary stenosis on CCTA. The model was trained to differentiate the coronary artery into binary stenosis classifications <50% and ≥50% stenosis. Using the quantitative coronary angiography (QCA) consensus results as a reference standard, the performance of the AI model and CCTA radiology readers was compared by calculating Cohen's kappa coefficients at patient and vessel levels. The net reclassification index was used to evaluate the net benefit of the DL model.

Results

The diagnostic accuracy of the AI model was 92.3% and 88.4% at the patient and vessel levels, respectively. Compared with CCTA radiology readers, the AI model had a better agreement for binary stenosis classification at both patient and vessel levels (Cohen kappa coefficient: .79 vs. .39 and .77 vs. .40, p < .0001). The AI model also exhibited significantly improved model discrimination and reclassification (Net reclassification index = .350; Z = 4.194; p < .001).

Conclusions

The developed AI model identified obstructive CAD, and the model results correlated well with QCA results. Incorporating the model into the reporting system of CCTA may improve workflows.
Life history of the leaf‐feeding beetle Calomela intemerata, a potential biocontrol agent against Acacia auriculiformis
Authors: Sanderson Christine H. , Zonneveld Ryan , Smith Melissa C. , Minteer Carey R. , Purcell Matthew F.
Published: September 2023

We examined the biology and life history of Calomela intemerata Lea (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae), to determine its potential as a biocontrol agent of Acacia auriculiformis A.Cunn. ex Benth. (Fabaceae), an environmental weed in Florida, USA. We analysed data from field surveys in northern Australia and determined life‐history parameters and larval feeding under controlled laboratory conditions. In the field, both larvae and adults of C. intemerata fed throughout the year on young shoots of A. auriculiformis. Two geographically isolated populations of C. intemerata were collected from Northern Territory and north Queensland, Australia. We examined developmental time, survival, and size of immature stages in the laboratory at 25 °C. Following development through four instars, larvae move to the soil for pupation. Egg‐to‐adult development was approximately 23 days. Adults were long‐lived – several individuals survived >8 months. Females began ovipositing about 8 days after emergence and laid on average >1000 eggs each. On the invasive Florida A. auriculiformis, larvae of the Northern Territory population performed better than the north Queensland population regarding leaf consumption and developmental rate. The biological attributes of C. intemerata such as short generation time, high fecundity, and a long adult life, combined with the extensive damage larvae and adults inflict to young vegetative growth when feeding, make it a promising candidate biocontrol agent for management of A. auriculiformis in Florida. Formal host specificity testing is currently underway in Florida.
First report of Quambalaria eucalypti in young Eucalyptus plants in field conditions in Brazil
Authors: Santos Gizeli S. , Mafia Reginaldo G. , Zarpelon Talyta G. , Soares Thaissa P. F. , Ferreira Maria A.
Published: September 2023

The genus Quambalaria includes several important pathogens of Eucalyptus and Corymbia spp., mainly those that cause leaf and shoot blight. The species Quambalaria eucalypti has been reported to be an aetiological agent of this disease in Brazil only in nurseries involved in the production of Eucalyptus minicuttings, where climatic conditions are more favourable for the pathogen. The aim of this study was to identify the pathogen that causes a similar disease in young Eucalyptus trees. For this, we used morphological characteristics, pathogenicity tests and DNA sequence data. Sequences of four isolates obtained from leaves and cankers were compared to 17 sequences deposited in GenBank. Twenty‐one isolates were subjected to multilocus analyses of internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and rDNA large subunit (LSU) sequence information. The resulting consensus tree showed that isolates in this study could be grouped with Q. eucalypti into one distinct clade, and the morphological characteristics were similar to those described in the literature. The pathogenicity was confirmed, and the pathogen was re‐isolated from inoculated plants, confirming Koch's postulates. This is the first record of Q. eucalypti causing leaf and shoot blight on young Eucalyptus plants in field conditions in Brazil. The presence of this disease in nurseries and its occurrence in the field is cause for alarm in Eucalyptus breeding programmes in Brazil.
Entrepreneurial intention studies: A hybrid bibliometric method to identify new directions for theory and research
Authors: Loi Michela , Castriotta Manuel , Barbosa Saulo Dubard , Di Guardo M. Chiara , Fayolle Alain
Published: September 2023

Fragmentation is the main obstacle to scientific progress on entrepreneurial intention. To address this issue, we systematise the current literature with a hybrid bibliometric method that combines co‐citation and bibliographic coupling analysis for the first time in entrepreneurial intention studies to show the field's knowledge base and research fronts and to examine how divergent perspectives have challenged the core knowledge of the field. We highlight three recurring dimensions of entrepreneurial intention studies: (1) personal factors, (2) social factors and (3) investigational settings. In addition to introducing new constructs, divergent perspectives have emphasised the interplay between these components and challenged the mechanisms connecting them. Based on these findings, we extend previous classifications in the literature by providing a framework that integrates divergent perspectives with the field's knowledge base, helping establish future research avenues and improving the theorising process of entrepreneurial intention.
Adsorption prospects of ultrafine, cubic 8 mol.% Y2O3‐stabilized ZrO2 nanoparticles
Authors: Ameta Pranav , Bokka Sravan , Lakshya Annu Kumar , Chowdhury Anirban
Published: September 2023

Yttria‐stabilized zirconia (YSZ), although well known for a lot of excellent engineering applications, has limited footprints in the field of adsorption/dye removal. Through this work, we demonstrate the remarkable efficacy (adsorption capacity ∼550 mg/g) of 8 mol.% YSZ nano‐adsorbents for toxic azo‐dye (e.g., Congo red) removal. The consistency of our adsorption experiments was validated with the help of a series of tests, such as regeneration (via thermal and chemical routes), in real‐life river water, with mixed ion solution, and under varied pH (3–11). Noteworthy is also that the commercial trademark composition (with the same dopant concentration) showed little/no adsorption. Our success of the adsorption experiments is credited to the multitude of factors, namely, size refinement ∼6 nm, retainment of phase‐pure cubicity, and enhanced surface area (155 m2/g), which eventually led to the generation of massive oxygen vacancies on our synthesized doped‐zirconia surfaces.
Design and preclinical testing of an anti‐CD41 CAR T cell for the treatment of acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia
Authors: Tigu Adrian Bogdan , Constantinescu Catalin Sorin , Teodorescu Patric , Kegyes David , Munteanu Raluca , Feder Richard , Peters Mareike , Pralea Ioana , Iuga Cristina , Cenariu Diana , Marcu Andra , Tanase Alina , Colita Anca , Drula Rares , Bergthorsson Jon Thor , Greiff Victor , Dima Delia , Selicean Cristina , Rus Ioana , Zdrenghea Mihnea , Gulei Diana , Ghiaur Gabriel , Tomuleasa Ciprian
Published: September 2023

Acute megakaryoblastic leukaemia (AMkL) is a rare subtype of acute myeloid leukaemia (AML) representing 5% of all reported cases, and frequently diagnosed in children with Down syndrome. Patients diagnosed with AMkL have low overall survival and have poor outcome to treatment, thus novel therapies such as CAR T cell therapy could represent an alternative in treating AMkL. We investigated the effect of a new CAR T cell which targets CD41, a specific surface antigen for M7‐AMkL, against an in vitro model for AMkL, DAMI Luc2 cell line. The performed flow cytometry evaluation highlighted a percentage of 93.8% CAR T cells eGFP‐positive and a limited acute effect on lowering the target cell population. However, the interaction between effector and target (E:T) cells, at a low ratio, lowered the cell membrane integrity, and reduced the M7‐AMkL cell population after 24 h of co‐culture, while the cytotoxic effect was not significant in groups with higher E:T ratio. Our findings suggest that the anti‐CD41 CAR T cells are efficient for a limited time spawn and the cytotoxic effect is visible in all experimental groups with low E:T ratio.
Relationship between CD4+ T‐cell counts at baseline and initial periodontal treatment efficacy in patients undergoing treatment for HIV infection: A retrospective observational study
Authors: Shintani Tomoaki , Okada Miho , Iwata Tomoyuki , Kawagoe Maiko , Yamasaki Naoya , Inoue Tomoko , Nakanishi Jun , Furutama Daisuke , Takeda Katsuhiro , Ando Toshinori , Nakaoka Miyuki , Mizuno Noriyoshi , Fujii Teruhisa , Kajiya Mikihito , Shiba Hideki
Published: September 2023

Aim

To retrospectively investigate the relationship between the CD4+ T‐cell counts at baseline and the efficacy of the initial periodontal treatment of patients undergoing treatment for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) infection using the periodontal inflamed surface area (PISA).

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐three patients with chronic periodontitis who had undergone periodontal examination at baseline and after the initial periodontal treatment were enrolled. PISA was calculated from the periodontal probing depth and bleeding on probing, and the ratio of PISA after treatment to that at baseline (PISA response ratio) was calculated. Groups with a response ratio of <1 and ≥1 were defined as the improvement and the non‐improvement groups, respectively.

Results

PISA after the initial periodontal treatment significantly decreased compared with that at baseline (p < .05). A weak negative correlation was found between the PISA response ratio and CD4+ T‐cell counts at baseline (p < .05). The CD4+ T‐cell counts at baseline were significantly higher in the improvement group than in the non‐improvement group (p < .05). Multivariate analysis revealed that the CD4+ T‐cell counts at baseline was an independent factor that affects the PISA (p < .05).

Conclusions

The higher the CD4+ T‐cell counts at baseline in patients undergoing treatment for HIV infection, the more effective the initial periodontal treatment.
Why do Hymenopteran workers drift to non-natal groups? Generalized reciprocity and the maximization of group and parental success
Authors: Nonacs Peter
Published: September 2023

Eusocial Hymenoptera are often characterized by having facultatively or obligately sterile worker castes. However, findings across an increasing number of species are that some workers are non-natal—they have ‘drifted’ away from where they were born and raised. Moreover, drifters are often indistinguishable from natal workers in the work and benefits provided to joined groups. This seems an evolutionary paradox of providing benefits to potentially unrelated individuals over close kin. Rather than being mistakes, drifting is proposed to be adaptive if joiners either gain inclusive fitness by preferentially moving to other kin groups or through generalized reciprocity in which exchanging workers across groups raises group-level genetic diversity and creates social heterosis. It is unclear, however, if reciprocity is unlikely because of a susceptibility to cheating. In resolving this question, a series of evolutionary simulations show: (1) Reciprocity can persist under a range of genetic assumptions and scenarios of cheating, (2) cheating almost always evolves, but can be expressed in a variety of ways that are not always predictable, (3) the inclusive fitness hypothesis is equally or more susceptible to cheating. Moreover, existing data in Hymenoptera (although not extensive) are more consistent with generalized reciprocity. This supports a hypothesis that drifting, as a phenomenon, may more often reflect maximization of group and parental fitness rather than fitness gains for the individual drifters.

Abstract

This article examines ‘worker drifting’ across social insect nests, where workers (W) move from their queen's (Q) nest to work for a non-natal group. This could be either kinship driven (left panel) with bias in movement to smaller nests that are genetically related (shown by same color), or generalized reciprocity where workers indiscriminately drift, which increases genetic diversity across all nests. Both processed could be present, by mathematical simulations and field observations are more supportive of generalized reciprocity.
Health care utilization before and after a dementia diagnosis in Medicare Advantage versus traditional Medicare
Authors: Jacobson Mireille , Ferido Patricia , Zissimopoulos Julie
Published: September 2023

Background

Half of all Medicare beneficiaries are enrolled in Medicare Advantage (MA). Many studies document lower care utilization and mortality in MA than traditional Medicare (TM), but evidence for persons with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) is limited.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of 2015–2018 Medicare claims and encounter data for community‐dwelling beneficiaries aged 65 and over in TM and MA with an incident ADRD diagnosis in 2017. We compared monthly hospitalization rates and outpatient visits 12 months before and after diagnosis and mortality 1 year from diagnosis. Models adjusted for sociodemographic characteristics and comorbidities. Sensitivity analyses addressed residual confounding using a control group with incident arthritis/glaucoma or excluding MA Special Needs Plans, and potential underreporting by restricting to MA plans with high data completeness.

Results

Among 454,508 beneficiaries diagnosed with ADRD in 2017, 250,837 (55%) were in TM and 203,671 (45%) in MA. Four to 12 months before diagnosis, monthly hospitalizations and outpatient visits were similar in TM and MA. In the diagnosis month, 36.5% of beneficiaries in TM had a hospitalization compared with 25.4% in MA, an adjusted difference of 10.7 percentage points [95% CI: 10.3, 11.1]. Beneficiaries in TM averaged 10.5 outpatient visits in the diagnosis month compared with 8.4 in MA, an adjusted difference of 1.59 visits [95% CI: 1.47–1.70]. Utilization differences narrowed but remained higher in TM for many months. One‐year mortality was 27.9% in TM and 22.2% in MA; an adjusted odds ratio of 1.152 [95% CI: 1.135–1.169] for those in TM compared with MA. Controlling for hospitalization in the diagnosis month substantially reduced the mortality difference.

Conclusion

Hospitalization rates and outpatient visits increased more after an ADRD diagnosis in TM than MA. One‐year post‐diagnosis, mortality was not higher in MA than TM but comparisons of quality of life and caregiver burden are needed.
Amyloid‐β exposed astrocytes induce iron transport from endothelial cells at the blood–brain barrier by altering the ratio of apo‐ and holo‐transferrin
Authors: Baringer Stephanie L. , Lukacher Avraham S. , Palsa Kondaiah , Kim Hyosung , Lippmann Ethan S. , Spiegelman Vladimir S. , Simpson Ian A. , Connor James R.
Published: September 2023

Abstract

Excessive brain iron accumulation is observed early in the onset of Alzheimer's disease, notably prior to widespread proteinopathy. These findings suggest that increases in brain iron levels are due to a dysregulation of the iron transport mechanism at the blood–brain barrier. Astrocytes release signals (apo‐ and holo‐transferrin) that communicate brain iron needs to endothelial cells in order to modulate iron transport. Here we use iPSC‐derived astrocytes and endothelial cells to investigate how early‐disease levels of amyloid‐β disrupt iron transport signals secreted by astrocytes to stimulate iron transport from endothelial cells. We demonstrate that conditioned media from astrocytes treated with amyloid‐β stimulates iron transport from endothelial cells and induces changes in iron transport pathway proteins. The mechanism underlying this response begins with increased iron uptake and mitochondrial activity by the astrocytes, which in turn increases levels of apo‐transferrin in the amyloid‐β conditioned astrocyte media leading to increased iron transport from endothelial cells. These novel findings offer a potential explanation for the initiation of excessive iron accumulation in early stages of Alzheimer's disease. What's more, these data provide the first example of how the mechanism of iron transport regulation by apo‐ and holo‐transferrin becomes misappropriated in disease that can lead to iron accumulation. The clinical benefit from understanding early dysregulation in brain iron transport in AD cannot be understated. If therapeutics can target this early process, they could possibly prevent the detrimental cascade that occurs with excessive iron accumulation.

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The effectiveness of S‐LEC™ solar control film L in laminated glass for reducing the burning sensation caused by near‐infrared radiation
Authors: Shinohara Koji , Nomachi Akira , Kawashima Makoto
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The aim of this study was to examine the potential for S‐LEC™ Solar Control Film L, a heat insulating interlayer film for laminated glass developed by Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd., to reduce the burning sensation caused by near infrared (NIR) radiation.

Methods

A crossover study was performed in 49 male and female subjects, using three different combinations of laminated glass with interlayer films. Subjects placed their right hand under each glass in an NIR irradiation device. The dorsal side of the right hand was irradiated with NIR for 30 s and the onset and degree of a burning sensation was measured.

Results

Laminated glass with S‐LEC™ Solar Control Film L reduced the burning sensation caused by NIR and delayed the onset of the sensation, compared with the control glasses.

Conclusion

The use of S‐LEC™ Solar Control Film L in the laminated glass of vehicles may improve passenger comfort and prevent skin disorders such as photoaging caused by prolonged exposure to NIR.
Adverse effect of botulinum toxin‐A injections on mandibular bone: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Moussa Mahmoud S. , Bachour Dona , Komarova Svetlana V.
Published: September 2023

Introduction

Botulinum toxin‐A (BTX) is a potent neurotoxin that is emerging in the scope of dental practice for its ability to temporarily paralyse musculature and reduce hyperfunction. This may be desirable in diseases/disorders associated with hyperactive muscles such as the muscles of mastication, most implicated in painful temporomandibular disorders (TMDs). The use of BTX extends beyond its indications with off‐label use in TMD's and other conditions, while potential adverse effects remain understudied. BTX is well‐established hindlimb paralysis model in animals leading to significant bone loss with underlying mechanisms remaining unclear. The objective of this study is to systematically review the literature for articles investigating changes in mandibular bone following BTX injections and meta‐analyse available data on reported bone outcomes.

Methods

Comprehensive search of Medline, Embase and Web of Science retrieved 934 articles. Following the screening process, 36 articles in animals and humans were included for quantitative synthesis. Articles in human individuals (6) and three different animal species (14) presented mandibular bone outcomes that were included in the meta‐analysis.

Results

The masseter and temporalis muscles were frequently injected across all species. In humans, we observe a decrease of about 6% in cortical thickness of mandibular regions following BTX injection with no evident changes in either volume or density of bone structures. In animals, bone loss in the condylar region is significantly high in both cortical and trabecular compartments.

Discussion

Our analysis supports the concept of BTX‐induced bone‐loss model in animal mandibles. Further, bone loss might be confined to the cortical compartments in humans. Most studies did not address the reality of repeated injections and excessive dosing, which occur due to the reversible action of BTX. More rigorous trials are needed to draw a full picture of potential long‐term adverse effects on bone.