bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unveiling the age‐related dynamics in Sjögren's syndrome: Insights from heart rate variability and autonomic function
Authors: Lin Hong‐Chun , Yen Chien‐Ming , Chen Wei‐Sheng , Hsu Chih‐Chien , Kung Yen‐Ying , Wu Jin‐Huang , Su Yu‐Ting , Chen Kuo‐Feng , Chen Hsin‐Yuan , Lien Chien‐Min , Wang Ming‐Jen , Chang Ching‐Mao
Published: March 2024

Background

Sjögren's Syndrome (SS), mainly affecting women in their midlife, is characterized by persistent inflammation in glands producing tears and saliva, often leading to significant complications. This study investigates the differences in autonomic system functioning between individuals with SS and healthy controls.

Methods

From April 2019 to December 2022, 329 diagnosed primary SS (pSS) patients and 30 healthy controls were enrolled at Taipei Veterans General Hospital, Taipei, Taiwan. The study assessed autonomic nervous system functioning using various HRV metrics. Participants were divided based on age and AECG criteria, including salivary gland biopsy and autoantibody status.

Results

Significant differences in Heart Rate Variability (HRV) were observed between pSS patients and healthy controls. The total power index was notably lower in pSS patients (4.98 ± 1.29) than in controls (5.54 ± 1.21, p = .022). Additionally, Vagal (VAG) activity was significantly reduced in the pSS group (4.95 ± 1.33) compared to the healthy control group (5.47 ± 1.19, p = .041). Age‐stratified analysis highlighted that the ≤50 years pSS group had a higher heart rate (77.74 ± 10.42) compared to the >50 years group (73.86 ± 10.35, p = .005). This group also showed a higher total power index (5.78 ± 1.30) versus the >50 years group (4.68 ± 1.19, p < .001), and significantly lower VAG activity (4.70 ± 1.26, p = .007) compared to healthy controls. Furthermore, the Standard Deviation of Normal‐to‐Normal Intervals (SDNN) was greater in the ≤50 years SS group (44.45 ± 37.12) than in the >50 years group (33.51 ± 26.18, p = .007). In pSS patients, those positive for both salivary gland biopsy and autoantibodies demonstrated a lower Total Power (4.25 ± 1.32) and R‐wave validity (93.50 ± 4.79, p < .05) than other groups, suggesting more severe autonomic imbalance. The R‐R interval variation (RRIV) was also significantly higher in this dual‐positive group (696.10 ± 975.41, p < .05). Additionally, the ESSPRI for dryness was markedly higher in the dual‐positive group (8.10 ± 1.45, p < .05), indicating more severe symptoms. These findings reveal significant variations in autonomic function in SS patients, especially in those with dual‐positive biopsy and autoantibody status.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates significant autonomic dysfunction in pSS patients compared to healthy controls, particularly in those positive for both salivary gland biopsy and autoantibodies. The age‐stratified analysis further emphasizes the impact of aging on autonomic system functioning in pSS, suggesting a need for age‐specific management approaches in pSS patient care.
Do hometown CEOs treat their employees better? Evidence from China
Authors: Yi Lingxue , Jiang Yichi
Published: March 2024

Employees are the most fundamental stakeholders in business operations, and safeguarding their rights and interests is an important manifestation of a firm's level of social responsibility. Little research has addressed whether hometown CEOs can affect employee‐related CSR (E‐CSR) and how the corporate ownership and regional economic development would moderate such an impact. Using an informal institutional perspective, we extend the literature on CEO characteristics by exploring the factors leading to employee welfare. Analysing a panel dataset of 1018 firms from Chinese A‐share listed companies between 2008 and 2020, we find a positive relationship between hometown identity and E‐CSR. Further research indicates that the effect is more pronounced in state‐owned enterprises and underdeveloped areas. Against the backdrop of weak labour protection in China's labour market, we contribute to research on informal institutions and employee benefits in pursuing harmonious labour relations.
Young people's experiences of the Northern Rivers 2017 flood and its effects on their mental health
Authors: Luk Michelle , Longman Jo
Published: March 2024

Objective

To explore young people's (YP) experiences of catastrophic flooding in the Northern Rivers area of northern NSW in 2017 and its effect on their mental health.

Design

Content analysis of free‐text survey responses (written responses to open questions, rather than selecting a response option).

Setting

Northern Rivers NSW.

Participants

YP aged 16–25 years who were Northern Rivers residents at the time of the 2017 flood.

Results

YP found their flood experience to be novel and challenging. They expressed worry, distress, anxiety, and worsened pre‐existing mental health issues as a result of the flood. YP reported a number of primary stressors (inadequate preparedness, warning and support during the flood) and secondary stressors (loss/damage of property and possessions, financial strain and disruptions to daily life) which potentially contributed to poor mental health. Some YP reported positive outcomes from their flood experience, notably increased community connectedness and personal resilience. However, they also expressed concern for the future, particularly potential reoccurrence of extreme floods as well as climate change. YP conveyed a desire for better community involvement to improve preparedness for future floods and a clear motivation to take action on climate change.

Conclusion

The flood was a challenging experience for YP which was commonly described as negatively affecting their mental health. Understanding what YP view as significant events or issues arising from their personal flood experience may help target support mechanisms and services to maintain their mental. More focus on community‐based initiatives to improve disaster preparedness can support mental health in YP.
Artificial intelligence measured 3D body composition to predict pathological response in rectal cancer patients
Authors: Wei Matthew Y , Cao Ke , Hong Wei , Yeung Josephine , Lee Margaret , Gibbs Peter , Faragher Ian G. , Baird Paul N. , Yeung Justin M.
Published: March 2024

Background

The treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) is moving towards total neoadjuvant therapy and potential organ preservation. Of particular interest are predictors of pathological complete response (pCR) that can guide personalized treatment. There are currently no clinical biomarkers which can accurately predict neoadjuvant therapy (NAT) response but body composition (BC) measures present as an emerging contender. The primary aim of the study was to determine if artificial intelligence (AI) derived body composition variables can predict pCR in patients with LARC.

Methods

LARC patients who underwent NAT followed by surgery from 2012 to 2023 were identified from the Australian Comprehensive Cancer Outcomes and Research Database registry (ACCORD). A validated in‐house pre‐trained 3D AI model was used to measure body composition via computed tomography images of the entire Lumbar‐3 vertebral level to produce a volumetric measurement of visceral fat (VF), subcutaneous fat (SCF) and skeletal muscle (SM). Multivariate analysis between patient body composition and histological outcomes was performed.

Results

Of 214 LARC patients treated with NAT, 22.4% of patients achieved pCR. SM volume (P = 0.015) and age (P = 0.03) were positively associated with pCR in both male and female patients. SCF volume was associated with decreased likelihood of pCR (P = 0.059).

Conclusion

This is the first study in the literature utilizing AI‐measured 3D Body composition in LARC patients to assess their impact on pathological response. SM volume and age were positive predictors of pCR disease in both male and female patients following NAT for LARC. Future studies investigating the impact of body composition on clinical outcomes and patients on other neoadjuvant regimens such as TNT are potential avenues for further research.
Using historical habitat loss to predict contemporary mammal extirpations in Neotropical forests
Authors: Bogoni Juliano A. , Peres Carlos A. , Navarro Ana B. , Carvalho‐Rocha Vitor , Galetti Mauro
Published: March 2024

Understanding which species will be extirpated in the aftermath of large‐scale human disturbance is critical to mitigating biodiversity loss, particularly in hyperdiverse tropical biomes. Deforestation is the strongest driver of contemporary local extinctions in tropical forests but may occur at different tempos. The 2 most extensive tropical forest biomes in South America—the Atlantic Forest and the Amazon—have experienced historically divergent pathways of habitat loss and biodiversity decay, providing a unique case study to investigate rates of local species persistence on a single continent. We quantified medium‐ to large‐bodied mammal species persistence across these biomes to elucidate how landscape configuration affects their persistence and associated ecological functions. We collected occurrence data for 617 assemblages of medium‐ to large‐bodied mammal species (>1 kg) in the Atlantic Forest and the Amazon. Analyzing natural habitat cover based on satellite data (1985–2022), we employed descriptive statistics and generalized linear models (GLMs) to investigate ecospecies occurrence patterns in relation to habitat cover across the landscapes. The subregional erosion of Amazonian mammal assemblage diversity since the 1970s mirrors that observed since the colonial conquest of the Atlantic Forest, given that 52.8% of all Amazonian mammals are now on a similar trajectory. Four out of 5 large mammals in the Atlantic Forest were prone to extirpation, whereas 53% of Amazonian mammals were vulnerable to extirpation. Greater natural habitat cover increased the persistence likelihood of ecospecies in both biomes. These trends reflected a median local species loss 63.9% higher in the Atlantic Forest than in the Amazon, which appears to be moving toward a turning point of forest habitat loss and degradation. The contrasting trajectories of species persistence in the Amazon and Atlantic Forest domains underscore the importance of considering historical habitat loss pathways and regional biodiversity erosion in conservation strategies. By focusing on landscape configuration and identifying essential ecological functions associated with large vertebrate species, conservation planning and management practices can be better informed.
Microglia and glioblastoma heterocellular interplay sustains tumour growth and proliferation as an off‐target effect of radiotherapy
Authors: Alberghina Cristiana , Torrisi Filippo , D'Aprile Simona , Longhitano Lucia , Giallongo Sebastiano , Scandura Grazia , Mannino Giuliana , Mele Stefania , Sabini Maria Gabriella , Cammarata Francesco P. , Russo Giorgio , Abdelhameed Ali S. , Zappalà Agata , Lo Furno Debora , Giuffrida Rosario , Li Volti Giovanni , Tibullo Daniele , Vicario Nunzio , Parenti Rosalba
Published: March 2024

Glioblastoma (GBM), a WHO grade IV glioma, is a malignant primary brain tumour for which combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy is the first‐line approach despite adverse effects. Tumour microenvironment (TME) is characterized by an interplay of cells and soluble factors holding a critical role in neoplastic development. Significant pathophysiological changes have been found in GBM TME, such as glia activation and oxidative stress. Microglia play a crucial role in favouring GBM growth, representing target cells of immune escape mechanisms. Our study aims at analysing radiation‐induced effects in modulating intercellular communication and identifying the basis of protective mechanisms in radiation‐naïve GBM cells. Tumour cells were treated with conditioned media (CM) derived from 0, 2 or 15 Gy irradiated GBM cells or 0, 2 or 15 Gy irradiated human microglia. We demonstrated that irradiated microglia promote an increase of GBM cell lines proliferation through paracrine signalling. On the contrary, irradiated GBM‐derived CM affect viability, triggering cell death mechanisms. In addition, we investigated whether these processes involve mitochondrial mass, fitness and oxidative phosphorylation and how GBM cells respond at these induced alterations. Our study suggests that off‐target radiotherapy modulates microglia to support GBM proliferation and induce metabolic modifications.
Diagnosis and therapy of actinic keratosis
Authors: Thamm Janis Raphael , Welzel Julia , Schuh Sandra
Published: March 2024

Actinic keratosis (AK) is considered a chronic and recurring in situ skin neoplasia, with a possible transformation into invasive squamous cell carcinoma (SCC). Among others, predominant risk factors for development of AK are UV‐light exposure and immunosuppression. Basal epidermal keratinocyte atypia (AK I) and proliferation (PRO score) seem to drive malignant transformation, rather than clinical appearance of AK (Olsen I–III). Due to the invasiveness of punch biopsy, those histological criteria are not regularly assessed. Non‐invasive imaging techniques, such as optical coherence tomography (OCT), reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) and line‐field confocal OCT (LC‐OCT) are helpful to distinguish complex cases of AK, Bowen's disease, and SCC. Moreover, LC‐OCT can visualize the epidermis and the papillary dermis at cellular resolution, allowing real‐time PRO score assessment. The decision‐making for implementation of therapy is still based on clinical risk factors, ranging from lesion‐ to field‐targeted and ablative to non‐ablative regimens, but in approximately 85% of the cases a recurrence of AK can be observed after a 1‐year follow‐up. The possible beneficial use of imaging techniques for a non‐invasive follow‐up of AK to detect recurrence or invasive progression early on should be subject to critical evaluation in further studies.
Lifetime and 10‐year cardiovascular risk prediction in individuals with type 1 diabetes: The LIFE‐T1D model
Authors: Helmink Marga A. G. , Hageman Steven H. J. , Eliasson Björn , Sattar Naveed , Visseren Frank L. J. , Dorresteijn Jannick A. N. , Harris Katie , Peters Sanne A. E. , Woodward Mark , Szentkúti Péter , Højlund Kurt , Henriksen Jan Erik , Sørensen Henrik Toft , Serné Erik H. , van Sloten Thomas T. , Thomsen Reimar W. , Westerink Jan
Published: March 2024

Aims

To develop and externally validate the LIFE‐T1D model for the estimation of lifetime and 10‐year risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD) in individuals with type 1 diabetes.

Materials and Methods

A sex‐specific competing risk‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards model was derived in individuals with type 1 diabetes without prior CVD from the Swedish National Diabetes Register (NDR), using age as the time axis. Predictors included age at diabetes onset, smoking status, body mass index, systolic blood pressure, glycated haemoglobin level, estimated glomerular filtration rate, non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, albuminuria and retinopathy. The model was externally validated in the Danish Funen Diabetes Database (FDDB) and the UK Biobank.

Results

During a median follow‐up of 11.8 years (interquartile interval 6.1–17.1 years), 4608 CVD events and 1316 non‐CVD deaths were observed in the NDR (n = 39 756). The internal validation c‐statistic was 0.85 (95% confidence interval [CI] 0.84–0.85) and the external validation c‐statistics were 0.77 (95% CI 0.74–0.81) for the FDDB (n = 2709) and 0.73 (95% CI 0.70–0.77) for the UK Biobank (n = 1022). Predicted risks were consistent with the observed incidence in the derivation and both validation cohorts.

Conclusions

The LIFE‐T1D model can estimate lifetime risk of CVD and CVD‐free life expectancy in individuals with type 1 diabetes without previous CVD. This model can facilitate individualized CVD prevention among individuals with type 1 diabetes. Validation in additional cohorts will improve future clinical implementation.
Multiple choice as formative assessment in dental education
Authors: Haugen Håvard J. , de Lange Thomas
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The effectiveness of multiple‐choice questions (MCQs) in dental education is pivotal to student performance and knowledge advancement. However, their optimal implementation requires exploration to enhance the benefits.

Materials and Methods

An educational tool incorporating MCQs was administered from the 5th to the 10th semester in a dental curriculum. The students filled out a questionnaire after the MCQ, which was linked to the learning management system. Four cohorts of four semesters generated 2300 data points analysed by Spearmen correlation and mixed model regression analysis.

Results

Demonstrated a significant correlation between early exam preparation and improved student performance. Independent study hours and lecture attendance emerged as significant predictors, accounting for approximately 10.27% of the variance in student performance on MCQs. While the number of MCQs taken showed an inverse relationship with study hours, the perceived clarity of these questions positively correlated with academic achievement.

Conclusion

MCQs have proven effective in enhancing student learning and knowledge within the discipline. Our analysis underscores the important role of independent study and consistent lecture attendance in positively influencing MCQ scores. The study provides valuable insights into using MCQs as a practical tool for dental student learning. Moreover, the clarity of assessment tools, such as MCQs, remains pivotal in influencing student outcomes. This study underscores the multifaceted nature of learning experiences in dental education and the importance of bridging the gap between student expectations and actual performance.
Mothering in liminality: Toward a definition of third culture parenting
Authors: D'Attoma Claire , Germann Molz Jennie
Published: March 2024

Objective

This study proposes a preliminary definition of third culture parenting drawn from the experiences of relatively privileged expat mothers who raise their children outside of their passport country.

Background

A vast literature examining third culture kids (TCKs) in the context of expatriate postings exists, as does research on parenting styles among middle‐class, U.S. families; however, there is little scholarship exploring where these intersect: an emerging style of third culture parenting.

Method

This gap was explored through an inductive, qualitative analysis of data collected from 11 in‐depth interviews with middle‐class mothers who were all married and globally mobile because of their husbands' work. In total, these families lived in 17 countries.

Results

Respondents reflected on the challenges and opportunities of parenting while suspended in a liminal space between geographic locations and cultural contexts.

Conclusion

This article examines several paradoxes that emerged in the analysis: juggling intensive parenting with children's increased independence, navigating family dynamics that are both insular and egalitarian, and creating a sense of belonging in mobility. Analysis of these paradoxes of mothering in liminality is significant if the transnational lives of expatriate families are harbingers of the kinds of identities and family relations that are becoming commonplace in a mobile world.

Implications

The phenomenon of TCKs is well documented in the scholarship, but it must also be understood in relation to an emerging style of third culture parenting among expatriate families, which may inform therapeutic interventions aimed at these families.
A structured rubric for evaluating the many systemic variables that can contribute to parent–child contact problems (PCCP)
Authors: Garber Benjamin D.
Published: March 2024

Parent–child contact problems (PCCP) are among the most vexing and intractable matters encountered in contemporary divorce and post‐divorce litigation. These complex and incendiary family dynamics can confound even the most experienced evaluators, investigators, and jurists, fueling opposing confirmational biases, and sparking a destructive tug‐of‐war between the aligned parent's allegations of abuse and the rejected parent's allegations of alienation. This article describes all such either/or binary arguments as misleading, contrary to the science, and harmful to children. Rather than cast alienation and estrangement as mutually exclusive alternatives, the systemically‐informed professional must consider more than a dozen mutually compatible practical exigencies and relationship dynamics which can converge to cause a child to align with one parent and resist or refuse contact with the other. Together, these variables are described as constituting an ecological model of the conflicted family system. A rubric is proposed to standardize evaluation across time, children, families, and jurisdictions, minimize bias, avoid premature closure, facilitate more comprehensive evaluations, optimize the efficacy of associated interventions, and invite more rigorous future research.
Unraveling the impact of female CEOs on corporate bond markets
Authors: Yur‐Austin Jasmine , Zhao Ran , Zhu Lu
Published: March 2024

Little is known about how executive gender shapes the inherent conflict of interest between shareholders and bondholders. Using a sample of almost 100,000 unique bond‐year observations, this study investigates how the appointment of female chief executive officers (CEOs) lowers the default outlook. Our evidence indicates that bond yield and bond volatility are significantly lower after a female takes the helm at a firm. This executive gender effect remains highly statistically and economically significant across various robustness checks and after addressing endogeneity concerns. Female CEOs lower the default risk component of the bond yield but have no material impact on the liquidity component. Subsample analysis substantiates the conditional effect of female CEOs on bond yield and bond volatility. Our evidence indicates that female CEOs’ risk‐averse attributes pass through the credit risk and information asymmetry channels.
A multi‐objective transportation model for COVID‐19 patients: lesson learned from France
Authors: Alaya Houda , Jammeli Haifa , Abdelaziz Fouad Ben , Masmoudi Meryem , Verny Jerome
Published: March 2024

The current COronaVIrus Disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic has revealed many challenges to the world. The pandemic obliged public authorities to impose lockdowns and stop several activities. Limited hospital capacity was considered one of the main reasons behind lockdown decisions. To partially face hospital congestion, the healthcare authorities suggested transferring patients to hospitals in regions with available beds to relieve overloaded hospitals. Such transfer operations required exceptional modes of transportation such as trains and airplanes. This paper aims to demonstrate that efficient health logistics might help face the pandemic health effects and save lives. In this paper, we propose a multi‐objective mathematical program to schedule the transfer of patients using trains and airplanes. The proposed sustainable logistics model was tested using French real‐life data for the period March–April 2020 using CPLEX software. We also illustrate the health benefits of our solution.
How taxonomic change influences forecasts of the Linnean shortfall (and what we can do about it)?
Authors: Lessa Thainá , Stropp Juliana , Hortal Joaquín , Ladle Richard J.
Published: March 2024

The gap between the number of described species and the number of species that actually exist is known as the Linnean shortfall and is of fundamental importance for biogeography and conservation. Unsurprisingly, there have been many attempts to quantify its extent for different taxa and regions. In this Perspective, we argue that such forecasts remain highly problematic because the extent of the shortfall does depend not only on the rates of exploration (sampling undescribed taxa) on which estimates have been commonly based but also on the rates of taxonomic change (lumping and splitting). These changes highly depend on the species concepts adopted and the information and methods used to delimit species. Commonly used methods of estimating the number of unknown species (e.g. discovery curves, taxon ratios) can underestimate or overestimate the Linnean shortfall if they do not effectively account for trends and rates of taxonomic change. A further complication is that the history of taxonomic change is not well documented for most taxa and is not typically available in biodiversity databases. Moreover, wide geographic and taxonomic variation in the adoption of species concepts and delimitation methods mean that comparison of estimates of the Linnean shortfall between taxa and even for the same taxon between regions may be unreliable. Given the high likelihood of future taxonomic changes for most major taxa, we propose two main strategies to consider the influence of taxonomic change on estimates of unknown species: (i) a highly conservative approach to estimating the Linnean shortfall, restricting analysis to groups and regions where taxonomies are relatively stable and (ii) explicitly incorporating metrics of taxonomic change into biodiversity models and estimates. In short, relevant estimates of the number of known and unknown species will only be achieved by accounting for the dynamic nature of the taxonomic process itself.
Sugar‐sweetened beverage consumption and periodontitis among adults: A population‐based cross‐sectional study
Authors: Alves‐Costa Silas , Nascimento Gustavo G. , Peres Marco A. , Li Huihua , Costa Susilena Arouche , Ribeiro Cecilia Claudia Costa , Leite Fábio Renato Manzolli
Published: March 2024

Aim

Investigating the association between sugar‐sweetened beverages (SSBs) and periodontitis and whether the awareness of diabetes modifies this relationship.

Materials and Methods

Cross‐sectional analysis was conducted using the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES III) data involving US adults aged 30–50. Periodontitis was classified according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and American Academy of Periodontology (CDC‐AAP), and SSB consumption as dichotomous (<5 or ≥5, <7 or ≥7 and <14 or ≥14 times/week), ordinal and continuous variables. Confounders included family income poverty ratio, education, race/ethnicity, sex, age, food energy intake, smoking and alcohol. Odds ratios (ORs) were obtained by logistic regressions using inverse probability weighting. Effect modification analysis was performed considering self‐reported diabetes.

Results

Among 4473 cases analysed, 198 self‐reported diabetes. SSBs were associated with periodontitis when individuals consumed ≥5 (OR 1.64; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.30–2.06), ≥7 (OR 1.92; 95% CI = 1.50–2.46) and ≥14 (OR 2.19; 95% CI = 1.50–3.18) times/week. The combined effect of consuming SSBs (≥5 and ≥14 times/week) and self‐reported diabetes had less impact than the cumulative effect.

Conclusions

SSB consumption was associated with higher odds of periodontitis, and the estimates were reduced among those with awareness of diabetes.
Impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on gastric surgery in Japan: A nationwide study using interrupted time‐series analyses
Authors: Fujita Misuzu , Yamaguchi Kazuya , Nagashima Kengo , Suzuki Kiminori , Kasai Tokuzo , Hashimoto Hideyuki , Onouchi Yoshihiro , Sato Daisuke , Fujisawa Takehiko , Hata Akira
Published: March 2024

Background and Aim

Changes in the number of surgeries for gastric cancer during the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic have been reported, but data are insufficient to understand the impact at the national level. This study aimed to determine the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on gastric surgery in Japan.

Methods

Insurance claims data registered from January 2015 to January 2021 were used. Changes in the number of endoscopic resections and gastrectomies for gastric cancer were estimated using an interrupted time‐series analysis.

Results

The number of endoscopic resections significantly decreased in July 2020 (−1565; 95% confidence interval [CI]: −2022, −1108) and January 2021 (−539; 95% CI: −970, −109), and the number of laparoscopic surgeries significantly decreased in July 2020 (−795; 95% CI: −1097, −492), October 2020 (−313; 95% CI: −606, −19), and January 2021 (−507; 95% CI: −935, −78). Meanwhile, the number of open gastrectomies remained unchanged, and the number of robot‐assisted gastrectomies steadily increased since their coverage by public health insurance in April 2018.

Conclusions

The decreased number of endoscopic resections and laparoscopic surgeries in Japan suggests a decline in early‐stage gastric cancer diagnosis, likely due to the suspension of gastric cancer screening and diagnostic testing during the pandemic. Meanwhile, the number of open and robot‐assisted gastrectomies remained unchanged and increased, respectively, indicating that these applications were not affected by the pandemic‐related medical crisis. These findings highlight that procedures for cancer diagnosis, including screening, should still be provided during pandemics.
Functional genomics of Brassica napus: Progress, challenges, and perspectives
Authors: Tan Zengdong , Han Xu , Dai Cheng , Lu Shaoping , He Hanzi , Yao Xuan , Chen Peng , Yang Chao , Zhao Lun , Yang Qing‐Yong , Zou Jun , Wen Jing , Hong Dengfeng , Liu Chao , Ge Xianhong , Fan Chuchuan , Yi Bing , Zhang Chunyu , Ma Chaozhi , Liu Kede , Shen Jinxiong , Tu Jinxing , Yang Guangsheng , Fu Tingdong , Guo Liang , Zhao Hu
Published: March 2024

Brassica napus, commonly known as rapeseed or canola, is a major oil crop contributing over 13% to the stable supply of edible vegetable oil worldwide. Identification and understanding the gene functions in the B. napus genome is crucial for genomic breeding. A group of genes controlling agronomic traits have been successfully cloned through functional genomics studies in B. napus. In this review, we present an overview of the progress made in the functional genomics of B. napus, including the availability of germplasm resources, omics databases and cloned functional genes. Based on the current progress, we also highlight the main challenges and perspectives in this field. The advances in the functional genomics of B. napus contribute to a better understanding of the genetic basis underlying the complex agronomic traits in B. napus and will expedite the breeding of high quality, high resistance and high yield in B. napus varieties.
A multiscale model for wood combustion
Authors: Hao H. L. , Qin R. Y. , Chow C. L. , Lau D.
Published: March 2024

Understanding wood combustion has become increasingly critical as fire safety engineering moves toward a performance‐based approach to building design. Although different kinetic models have been developed for wood burning, chemical kinetics remains a significant challenge for accurate prediction. This work has developed a novel multiscale model by implementing kinetic parameters calculated from molecular dynamics simulations using reactive forcefield into a kinetic model of wood burning. The calculated kinetic parameters of the main components in wood, namely, cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin, are first utilized to model microscale thermogravimetric experiments for validation. Subsequently, the mesoscale and full‐scale fire tests have been simulated by the multiscale model. Furthermore, the fire properties of various wood species at different heat fluxes have been predicted and compared with results from the cone calorimeter test. Our multiscale model outperforms existing kinetic models in predicting wood combustion and can effectively discern the influence of chemical components on fire properties.
Two decades of dune slack restoration in North Wales: diversity, community and habitat specialists
Authors: Johansen Nicola , Davis Michelle , Ashton Paul A.
Published: March 2024

Humid dunes slacks are a highly threatened habitat, listed as vulnerable in the EU habitat red list. Accelerated successional processes in dune systems have resulted in the loss and degradation of ideal conditions for specialist dune slack species, hence the need for conservation management. We investigated the restoration of a dune slack in North Wales, UK, where vegetation and soil removal to 10 cm depth was undertaken to reinstate nutrient‐poor, open and damp conditions. We assessed the outcomes of the management for dune slack communities over the 18 years since restoration. We also assessed the differences between restored and unrestored areas of dune slacks. The dunes were restored in the winter of 2004/2005, after which we conducted vegetation surveys in fixed quadrats for most years in the restored and adjacent, un‐restored dune slacks. Species diversity and plant community composition changes over time were assessed using Shannon's index, multivariate analysis and indicator species analysis. Comparisons between the restored and unrestored areas of the dune slacks were also made. Ellenberg indicator values (EIVs) were examined to identify potential environmental drivers of post management successional changes. After 18 years the restored dune slacks developed a species‐rich and diverse community. compared to the unrestored slacks. The establishment of species occurred rapidly in the first three years, followed by continued but slower increases in species richness and diversity. This is due to the addition of new species without losses of established species. EIVs show no significant difference over time suggesting the restored areas are still at an early stage of succession. Distinct stages of community change since restoration are characterised by different indicator species. Plants are likely to be largely recruited from an existing seed bank. Restoration by turf removal may be suitable for other low nutrient, species rich habitats dependent upon fluctuating groundwater levels.
Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder prevalence is high in children with gastroparesis and functional dyspepsia
Authors: Kaul Isha , Burton‐Murray Helen , Musaad Salma , Mirabile Yiming , Czyzewski Danita , van Tilburg Miranda A. L. , Sher Andrew C. , Chumpitazi Bruno P. , Shulman Robert J.
Published: March 2024

Background

Avoidant/restrictive food intake disorder (ARFID) prevalence in children with gastroparesis (Gp) and/or functional dyspepsia (FD) is unknown. We aimed to identify ARFID prevalence and trajectory over 2 months in children with Gp, FD, and healthy children (HC) using two screening questionnaires. We also explored the frequency of a positive ARFID screen between those with/without delayed gastric emptying or abnormal fundic accommodation.

Methods

In this prospective longitudinal study conducted at an urban tertiary care hospital, patients ages 10–17 years with Gp or FD and age‐ and gender‐matched HC completed two validated ARFID screening tools at baseline and 2‐month follow‐up: the Nine Item ARFID Screen (NIAS) and the Pica, ARFID, and Rumination Disorder Interview‐ARFID Questionnaire (PARDI‐AR‐Q). Gastric retention and fundic accommodation (for Gp and FD) were determined from gastric emptying scintigraphy.

Key Results

At baseline, the proportion of children screening positive for ARFID on the NIAS versus PARDI‐AR‐Q was Gp: 48.5% versus 63.6%, FD: 66.7% versus 65.2%, HC: 15.3% versus 9.7%, respectively; p < 0.0001 across groups. Of children who screened positive at baseline and participated in the follow‐up, 71.9% and 53.3% were positive 2 months later (NIAS versus PARDI‐AR‐Q, respectively). A positive ARFID screen in Gp or FD was not related to the presence/absence of delayed gastric retention or abnormal fundic accommodation.

Conclusions & Inferences

ARFID detected from screening questionnaires is highly prevalent among children with Gp and FD and persists for at least 2 months in a substantial proportion of children. Children with these disorders should be screened for ARFID.
Gestures of neighbor‐love: Literature, philosophy, and givenness
Authors: Hron Irina
Published: March 2024

This article explores the literary, philosophical, and phenomenological dimensions of neighbor‐love. Phenomenologically speaking, neighborly love must be given, that is, it must be given voluntarily through attitudes, actions, or gestures. But whom do we actually acknowledge as our neighbor, and why? Adopting a comparative literary approach, this paper argues that literature is not philosophy's adversary but its creative interlocutor: Ilse Aichinger's poem “Foundling” transcends anthropocentric perspectives, presenting the Neighbor as a being beyond denomination by translating it from human to animal. Doris Lessing's novel The Diary of a Good Neighbour depicts the unpredictable and accidental nature of encounters with the Neighbor, leaving no room for personal choice. Ultimately, Amélie Nothomb's Les catilinaires illustrates how the Neighbor can be a persistent annoyance that both irritates and resists systematic thinking. These literary works outline a nuanced poetics of neighbor‐love and givenness that extends beyond any anthropological, theological, or religio‐ethical concept.
Symbolic threat from the West, belief in pro‐Kremlin conspiracy theories, and attribution of blame for the war in Ukraine: A two‐wave longitudinal study
Authors: Šrol Jakub , Čavojová Vladimíra
Published: March 2024

In this two‐wave longitudinal study, we examined the sense of symbolic threat from the West and Russia as ideological roots of motivated belief in pro‐Kremlin conspiracy theories and the attribution of blame to Russia, the United States, and Ukraine for the war in Ukraine. Participants (N = 690) completed questionnaires on symbolic threat from the West and Russia, belief in pro‐Kremlin conspiracy theories about the war in Ukraine as well as generic anti‐West and anti‐Russian conspiracy theories, and blame for the war in Ukraine. The sense of symbolic threat from the West and pro‐Kremlin conspiracy beliefs predicted each other in time and were substantially associated with increased blaming of Ukraine and the United States for the war in Ukraine. Conversely, symbolic threat from Russia along with the rejection of pro‐Kremlin conspiracy theories predicted increased blaming of Russia over time. Motivated reasoning analyses suggested that the ideological link between the symbolic threat from the West and belief in anti‐West conspiracy theories was stronger than the one between symbolic threat from Russia and belief in anti‐Russian conspiracy theories. This suggests an existence of self‐reinforcing relationship between the deep‐rooted sense of symbolic threat and anti‐West conspiracy theories which is exploited by various political actors.
Cohort profile: The Copenhagen Analgesic Study—The COPANA cohort
Authors: Fischer Margit Bistrup , Mola Gylli , Scheel Lone , Wraae Katrine Bak , Rom Ane Lilleøre , Frederiksen Hanne , Johannsen Trine Holm , Almstrup Kristian , Sundberg Karin , Hegaard Hanne Kristine , Juul Anders , Hagen Casper P.
Published: March 2024

Background

Development of the gonads during fetal life is complex and vital for adult reproductive health. Cell and animal studies have shown an alarming effect of mild analgesics on germ cells in both males and females. More than 50% of pregnant women use mild analgesics during pregnancy, which potentially could compromise the reproductive health of the next generation.

Objectives

We present a research protocol designed to evaluate the effect of prenatal exposure to mild analgesics and endocrine‐disrupting chemicals on gonadal function in the offspring.

Population

Healthy, singleton pregnant women and their partners.

Design

The COPANA cohort is a prospective, observational pregnancy and birth cohort.

Methods

Participants were enrolled during the first trimester of pregnancy. Information on the use of mild analgesics was collected retrospectively 3 months prior to pregnancy and prospectively every 2 weeks throughout the study. We collected extensive data on lifestyle and reproductive health. Biospecimens were collected in the first trimester (maternal and paternal urine‐ and blood samples), in the third trimester in conjunction with a study‐specific ultrasound scan (maternal urine sample), and approximately 3 months post‐partum during the infant minipuberty period (maternal and infant urine‐ and blood samples). A comprehensive evaluation of reproductive function in the infants during the minipuberty phase was performed, including an ultrasound scan of the testis or ovaries and uterus.

Preliminary Results

In total, 685 pregnant women and their partners were included between March 2020 and January 2022. A total of 589 infants (287 males) and their parents completed the follow‐up during the minipuberty phase (December 2020—November 2022).

Conclusions

The Copenhagen Analgesic Study holds the potential to provide novel and comprehensive insights into the impact of early and late prenatal exposure to mild analgesics and other endocrine‐disrupting chemicals on future reproductive function in the offspring.
The decline of the non‐Hispanic white population in the United States of America
Authors: Verdugo Richard R. , Swanson David A.
Published: March 2024

Objectives

The question of a declining non‐Hispanic white (NHW) population has sparked debate in the United States. In examining this question, three bodies of research have emerged. One group reports that the decline is real, a second argues that it is an illusion, and the third provides evidence that the decline is concentrated within socio‐economic segments of the NHW population. We use the third groups’ insight as the starting point for our research objective.

Methods

In conjunction with data from Census Bureau sources, we use a series of Regression Models in this inquiry.

Results

Our results show that the decline of the NHW population is real and related to factors embedded in the institutional anomie theory (IAT) framework.

Conclusions

We conclude that the IAT framework is a suitable approach for examining the question of NHW population decline. However, we suggest that future research consider refining our approach by: (1) using sub‐state areas as the units of analyses; (2) examining changes in the NHW population relative to lagged changes in the IAT framework at both the state and sub‐state levels; (3) placing our framework into an “algorithmic modeling approach” that employs machine learning; and (4) developing anomie predictors.
Telo boxes within the AGAMOUS second intron recruit histone 3 lysine 27 methylation to increase petal number in rose (Rosa chinensis) in response to low temperatures
Authors: Lu Jun , Wang Weinan , Fan Chunguo , Sun Jingjing , Yuan Guozhen , Guo Yuhan , Yu Xinyu , Chang Yufei , Liu Jinyi , Wang Changquan
Published: March 2024

The petals of rose (Rosa sp.) flowers determine the ornamental and industrial worth of this species. The number of petals in roses was previously shown to be subject to fluctuations in ambient temperature. However, the mechanisms by which rose detects and responds to temperature changes are not entirely understood. In this study, we identified short interstitial telomere motifs (telo boxes) in the second intron of AGAMOUS (RcAG) from China rose (Rosa chinensis) that play an essential role in precise temperature perception. The second intron of RcAG harbors two telo boxes that recruit telomere repeat binding factors (RcTRBs), which interact with CURLY LEAF (RcCLF) to compose a repressor complex. We show that this complex suppresses RcAG expression when plants are subjected to low temperatures via depositing H3K27me3 marks (trimethylation of lysine 27 on histone H3) over the RcAG gene body. This regulatory mechanism explains the low‐temperature‐dependent decrease in RcAG transcript levels, leading to the production of more petals under these conditions. Our results underscore an interesting intron‐mediated regulatory mechanism governing RcAG expression, enabling rose plants to perceive temperature cues and establish petal numbers.
How Constructivist Learning Impacts Secondary Girls’ STEM Career Interests
Authors: Xu Yonghong Jade , Yang Mei , Zhang Shaoan , Muthukumar Venkatesan
Published: March 2024

This is a quantitative study that examines how constructivist learning in a summer camp impacted middle school and high school girls’ STEM knowledge, self-efficacy, and ultimately, their interests in future STEM learning and growth. An online survey was used to collect information from thirty-one girls at the end of a five-week summer camp. The results are mostly confirmative of past studies that used student-centered project-based authentic STEM learning with significant gains in students’ understanding of STEM, self-efficacy, and interests in STEM for future development. The unique contribution of the study, though, is the finding that, when given the opportunity to engage in active learning and problem-solving, girls’ interest in STEM subjects could be substantially boosted; the constructivist learning environment along with their gains in STEM knowledge can compensate any insufficiency in self-efficacy in this regard. This study provides insight about the importance of instructional approach in STEM education.
Prediction of the Influence of the Inlet End-Wall Boundary Layer on the Secondary Flow of a Low Pressure Turbine Airfoil Using RANS and Large-Eddy Simulations
Authors: Gisbert Fernando , Cadrecha David , Apoita Patxi
Published: March 2024

This paper analyzes the effect of the inlet end-wall boundary layer on the secondary flow of a low pressure turbine airfoil cascade at Reynolds number 2 × 105 using RANS and implicit large-eddy simulations (LES). The results are compared against experimental data obtained at two low-speed linear cascade facilities, one located at the Whittle Laboratory of the University of Cambridge and the other at the Polytechnic University of Madrid. The RANS turbulence model is the k−ω−γ−Reθt and no sub-grid scale model has been used in the LES. An unstructured mesh of hexahedra and prisms is used, with high order elements used in the boundary layer region to better describe the airfoil shape in the LES. Two inlet end-wall boundary layers that produce different secondary flow patterns are analyzed: a laminar thin velocity profile and a turbulent thick velocity profile with several inlet turbulent intensities. The agreement between LES numerical predictions and experimental measurements of the position and intensity of the secondary vortices is very good for both cases. RANS simulations are much cheaper in terms of computational cost and reasonably predict most of the flow features, except when the inlet turbulence is low and turbulent transition prediction becomes critical. The effect of the inlet velocity profiles and inlet turbulence on the secondary flow structure is quite pronounced. The velocity profile thickness determines the spanwise penetration of the passage vortex, and different inlet turbulence intensities modify its mixing. Higher inlet turbulence intensities lead to a decrease of the secondary losses due to the passage vortex and an increase of end-wall losses.