bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The sub‐basal nerve plexus and central corneal stromal microstructure in subjects with congenital aniridia, using in vivo confocal microscopy
Authors: Szentmáry Nóra , Csorba Anita , Kormányos Kitti , Csidey Mária , Náray Annamária , Kéki‐Kovács Klaudia , Németh Orsolya , Knézy Krisztina , Bausz Mária , Szigeti Andrea , Szabó Dorottya , Corton Marta , Tory Kálmán , Nagy Zoltán Zsolt , Langenbucher Achim , Maka Erika
Published: January 2024

Purpose: Congenital aniridia is a rare disease, with a global prevalence of 1 in 40 000 to 1 in 100 000. During life up to 70% of aniridia sufferers develop aniridia‐associated keratopathy (AAK) with limbal stem cell insufficiency, impaired corneal epithelial cell differentiation, abnormal cell adhesion and wound healing. AAK is characterized by centripetal spreading vascularization, conjunctivalization, and thickening of the cornea. We examined the sub‐basal nerve plexus and central corneal stromal microstructure in subjects with congenital aniridia, using in vivo confocal laser scanning microscopy (IVCM).

Methods: 31 eyes of 18 patients (55.6% males, mean age: 25.22 ± 16.35 years) with congenital aniridia and 47 eyes of 29 healthy subjects (41.4% males, mean age 30 ± 14.82 years) were examined using the Rostock Cornea Module of Heidelberg Retina Tomograph‐III. At the sub‐basal nerve plexus, corneal nerve fibre density (CNFD), corneal nerve fibre length (CNFL), corneal total branch density (CTBD) and corneal nerve fibre width (CNFW) were analysed using ACCMetrics software. Keratocyte density in the anterior, middle and posterior stroma was assessed manually.

Results: The CNFD (2.02 ± 4.08 vs. 13.99 ± 6.34/mm2), CNFL (5.78 ± 2.68 vs. 10.56 ± 2.82 mm/mm2) and CTBD (15.08 ± 15.62 vs. 27.44 ± 15.05/mm2) were significantly lower in congenital aniridia subjects, than in controls (p < 0.001 for all). CNFW was significantly higher in aniridia subjects, than in controls (0.03 ± 0.004 vs. 0.02 ± 0.003 mm/mm2) (p < 0.003). Keratocyte density was significantly lower in all stromal layers of congenital aniridia subjects, than in controls (p < 0.001 for all). Stromal alterations included confluent keratocytes, keratocytes with long extensions and hyperreflective dots between keratocytes in congenital aniridia.

Conclusions: CNFD, CNFL and CTBD decrease and CNFW increase well refer to the congenital aniridia associated neuropathy. The decreased keratocyte density contradicts the inflammatory hypothesis of congenital aniridia. Corneal stromal changes in different stages of AAK have to be further analysed in detail0.
Toward optical correction of cataract opacities
Authors: Artal Pablo
Published: January 2024

Cataracts is a common pathology where the crystalline lens tends to become opaque, degrading the quality of the retinal images because of the increase of scattering. This leads to a deterioration of visual quality affecting the life of patients. The widely used solution is cataract surgery, replacing the natural lens with artificial intraocular lenses. Although surgical approaches are very successful, it would be useful to have alternative non‐invasive approaches based in optics to correct the retinal images in cataract patients. There are different options, some of them already tested in my laboratory. In this presentation, I will describe some of those based in wavefront shaping technologies. Results in simulations and using excised crystalline lenses will be shown and the prospects and limitations for practical in vivo implementations will be discussed.
Rapidly progressive neuromyelitis optica, report of a case
Authors: Sancho Ainhoa Mimendia , Espinet Ramon , Costales‐Mier Felipe , Bertomeu Pau Cid , Maeso Alicia Traveset
Published: January 2024

Aims/Purpose: To describe a clinical case of rapidly sequential bilateral optic neuritis associated with positive serological antibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) in a 54‐year‐old Moroccan woman, who present loss of visual acuity in her left eye (OS) of 1 week of evolution.

Methods: In the ophthalmological examination, she presented a visual acuity (VA) of 4/10 in the right eye (RE) and counting fingers at 1 meter in OS, with an afferent pupillary defect in OS. The ocular fundus shows papilledema in OS, with bilateral retinal nerve fibre layer (RNFL) thickening by optical coherence tomography (OCT). Rest of exploration normal. A complete analytical study and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are requested. While waiting for results, she returned to the emergency room due to greater visual loss, showing VA of hand movement in OD and perception of light in OS. OCT showed increased RNFL thickening and fluorescein angiography showed papillary hyperfluorescence. The visual field revealed severe generalized depression in both eyes.

Results: Brain and orbital MRI showed bilateral enhancement of the anterior optic nerves, with extension of enhancement to their intracranial portion, chiasm, and right optic tract. The analytical study showed a positive result for MOG antibodies with a titre of 1:80. We proceeded to intravenous treatment with methylprednisolone 1 gd/day for 5 days followed by oral corticosteroids and plasmapheresis. The patient presented a remarkable clinical improvement with VA improvement to 6/10 in both eyes, disappearance of optic nerve edema, and normalization of RNFL.

Conclusions: The discovery of MOG‐Immunoglobulin G as a biomarker for inflammatory demyelinating diseases of the Central Nervous System other than Multiple Sclerosis represents a paradigm shift in the field of neuroimmunology. Myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein‐associated disorder has the potential to cause devastating long‐term visual impairment.
The impact of accommodation function on the difference between noncycloplegic and cycloplegic refraction in adult myopes
Authors: Yuexin Wang , Yu Zhang , Yifei Yuan , Yan Liu , Yueguo Chen
Published: January 2024

Purpose

To investigate the impact of accommodation function on the difference between cycloplegic and noncycloplegic subjective and automatic refraction in adult myopes.

Methods

Myopic patients between 18 and 50 years old evaluated at Peking University Third Hospital who underwent cycloplegic and noncycloplegic automatic and subjective refraction were enrolled. Accommodation function, including negative and positive relative accommodation (PRA/NRA) and accommodation response (binocular cross cylinder, BCC) was examined.

Results

Of the 3268 individuals enrolled, the mean age was 27.3 ± 6.9 years, and 34.8% of participants were male. The noncycloplegic spherical equivalent (SE) was 0.23 ± 0.29 D and 0.64 ± 0.61 D more myopic than cycloplegic subjective and automatic refraction. Adjusting for associated factors, participants with at least 0.50 D of more myopia SE refraction by noncycloplegic subjective refraction were more likely to be older (odds ratio [OR], 1.029; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.013–1.045) and with insufficient (OR, 1.514; 95% CI, 1.093–2.096) and excessive (OR, 2.196; 95% CI, 1.538–3.137) NRA value. The automatic refraction SE difference of at least 1.00 D more myopia was more likely to be found in individuals with older age (OR, 1.036; 95% CI, 1.022–1.050) and accommodative lead (OR, 1.255; 95% CI, 1.004–1.568).

Conclusion

A quarter of adult myopes had at least 0.50 and 1.00 D of subjective and automatic SE difference with cycloplegia. The accommodation function significantly affects the difference between cycloplegic and noncycloplegic refraction. Investigating the differences in refraction measurement guarantees the proper use of cycloplegia in adults for myopia correction.
Employees high in political skill viewed as role model or gossip target? Linking political skill to coworker envy, observational learning and negative gossip, and the moderating role of workplace friendship
Authors: Yu Weina , Li Min , Qin Xue
Published: January 2024

The effects of political skill on the actors themselves have been extensively studied, yet there has been a lack of comprehensive analysis regarding its influence on the reactions of coworkers. Drawing upon social comparison theory, we developed and tested a model to explore potential reactions from coworkers toward employees high in political skill. We theorized that employees high in political skill hold a more prominent status within the team, which in turn exposes them to being the target of coworker envy, and ultimately coworker different reactions (observational learning and negative gossip). We also hypothesized that the serial‐mediated relationships are moderated by workplace friendship. Using time‐lagged data from 830 dyad of 350 employees in 107 teams, our results supported that political skill was positively and indirectly related to coworker envy, via relative leader‐member exchange (RLMX). Furthermore, the results of our study supported the positive and indirect effect of political skill on observational learning and negative gossip via RLMX and coworker envy. Workplace friendship has a moderating effect on the relationship between coworker envy and observational learning/negative gossip, and between political skill and observational learning/negative gossip. This research provides an explanation of when and why coworkers engage in observational learning or negative gossip about employees high in political skill, contributing to a more comprehensive and balanced understanding of the management practices related to political skill guidance.
Metformin enhanced the effect of pirfenidone on pulmonary fibrosis in mice
Authors: Liu Nana , Song Yanqiu , Liu Ting , Wang Hongyu , Yu Naihao , Ma Hui
Published: January 2024

Background

The aim of the study is to observe the anti‐inflammatory and antioxidative stress effects of metformin on bleomycin (BLM)‐induced pulmonary fibrosis in mice.

Methods

Mice with BLM‐induced pulmonary fibrosis were treated with pirfenidone, metformin, pirfenidone plus metformin and the NADPH oxidase 4 (NOX4) inhibitor diphenyleneiodonium chloride (DPI). Pathological changes and hydroxyproline (HPO) levels were examined in the lung tissue of mice with pulmonary fibrosis. Superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and malonaldehyde (MDA) levels in lung tissue were determined.

Results

Compared with pirfenidone, pirfenidone plus metformin could reduce alveolar damage and collagen fibre deposition and alleviate BLM‐induced pulmonary fibrosis. Lung HPO levels were significantly lower in the PFD + MET group than in the BLM group (p < 0.05). SOD levels in the lungs of mice were increased in the PFD + MET group than in the BLM group (p < 0.05). Metformin and pirfenidone plus metformin can reduce MDA levels (p < 0.05). Pirfenidone plus metformin could reduce HPO levels, increase SOD levels, and reduce MDA levels in the lungs of mice. There was a significant correlation between the HPO level and the Ashcroft score (r = 0.520, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

Metformin enhanced the antifibrotic effects of pirfenidone on BLM‐treated mice. Moreover, these findings provide an experimental basis for examining whether metformin can improve the antifibrotic effects of pirfenidone on patients with idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF). It has broad therapeutic prospects for patients with IPF.
The development and training effect of innovative undergraduate dental talents training project: A 6‐year retrospective study
Authors: Gong Zhuohong , Gan Xuejing , Liu Haiwen , Shi Mengru , Chen Shijie , Xue Junlong , Cai Gengbin , Wen Shangyou , Li Jiayu , Huang Shuheng , Hong Yun , Li Lin , Chen Zetao
Published: January 2024

Introduction

To summarize the development of Innovative Undergraduate Dental Talents Training Project (IUDTTP) and investigate the training effect of this extracurricular dental basic research education activity from 2015 to 2020 to obtain educational implications.

Materials and Methods

The Guanghua School of Stomatology established the IUDTTP in 2015. The authors recorded the development process and analysed the participation situation, training effect, academic performance and overall satisfaction during 2015–2020 through documental analysis, questionnaire and quiz. The t‐test, chi‐square test and ANOVA were used to test the difference.

Results

The educational goal, education module and assessment system of IUDTTP evolved and developed every year. A total of 336 students and 79 mentors attended the IUDTTP from 2015 to 2020, with the participation rate increasing from 45.1% to 73.5%. The participants exhibited favourable basic research abilities, manifesting as the increase of funded projects and published papers and satisfying quiz scores. Almost all students (94.94%) admitted their satisfaction with the IUDTTP. Moreover, the attended students surpassed the non‐participants in terms of GPA, the number of acquired scholarships and outstanding graduates (p < .05). Likewise, the enrolment rate of postgraduate participants was significantly higher than non‐participants.

Conclusions

To date, the training effect indicated that the IUDTTP has fulfilled the education aim. It brought positive effects on promoting research interest, cultivating research capacities and enhancing academic performance. The potential deficiencies of extracurricular educational activities, including inflexibility in schedule and insufficiency in systematisms, may be remedied by more systematic educational settings in the future.
Embracing the future—is artificial intelligence already better? A comparative study of artificial intelligence performance in diagnostic accuracy and decision‐making
Authors: Fonseca Ângelo , Ferreira Axel , Ribeiro Luís , Moreira Sandra , Duque Cristina
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose

The integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare has the potential to revolutionize patient care and clinical decision‐making. This study aimed to explore the reliability of large language models in neurology by comparing the performance of an AI chatbot with neurologists in diagnostic accuracy and decision‐making.

Methods

A cross‐sectional observational study was conducted. A pool of clinical cases from the American Academy of Neurology's Question of the Day application was used as the basis for the study. The AI chatbot used was ChatGPT, based on GPT‐3.5. The results were then compared to neurology peers who also answered the questions—a mean of 1500 neurologists/neurology residents.

Results

The study included 188 questions across 22 different categories. The AI chatbot demonstrated a mean success rate of 71.3% in providing correct answers, with varying levels of proficiency across different neurology categories. Compared to neurology peers, the AI chatbot performed at a similar level, with a mean success rate of 69.2% amongst peers. Additionally, the AI chatbot achieved a correct diagnosis in 85.0% of cases and it provided an adequate justification for its correct responses in 96.1%.

Conclusions

The study highlights the potential of AI, particularly large language models, in assisting with clinical reasoning and decision‐making in neurology and emphasizes the importance of AI as a complementary tool to human expertise. Future advancements and refinements are needed to enhance the AI chatbot's performance and broaden its application across various medical specialties.
Magnetic resonance neurography in spinal cord injury: Imaging findings and clinical significance
Authors: Jende Johann M. E. , Heutehaus Laura , Preisner Fabian , Verez Sola Christina M. , Mooshage Christoph M. , Heiland Sabine , Rupp Rüdiger , Bendszus Martin , Weidner Norbert , Kurz Felix T. , Franz Steffen
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose

It is unknown whether changes to the peripheral nervous system following spinal cord injury (SCI) are relevant for functional recovery or the development of neuropathic pain below the level of injury. Magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) at 3 T allows detection and localization of structural and functional nerve damage. This study aimed to combine MRN and clinical assessments in individuals with chronic SCI and nondisabled controls.

Methods

Twenty participants with chronic SCI and 20 controls matched for gender, age, and body mass index underwent MRN of the L5 dorsal root ganglia (DRG) and the sciatic nerve. DRG volume, sciatic nerve mean cross‐sectional area (CSA), fascicular lesion load, and fractional anisotropy (FA), a marker for functional nerve integrity, were calculated. Results were correlated with clinical assessments and nerve conduction studies.

Results

Sciatic nerve CSA and lesion load were higher (21.29 ± 5.82 mm2 vs. 14.08 ± 4.62 mm2, p < 0.001; and 8.70 ± 7.47% vs. 3.60 ± 2.45%, p < 0.001) in individuals with SCI compared to controls, whereas FA was lower (0.55 ± 0.11 vs. 0.63 ± 0.08, p = 0.022). DRG volumes were larger in individuals with SCI who suffered from neuropathic pain compared to those without neuropathic pain (223.7 ± 53.08 mm3 vs. 159.7 ± 55.66 mm3, p = 0.043). Sciatic MRN parameters correlated with electrophysiological results but did not correlate with the extent of myelopathy or clinical severity of SCI.

Conclusions

Individuals with chronic SCI are subject to a decline of structural peripheral nerve integrity that may occur independently from the clinical severity of SCI. Larger volumes of DRG in SCI with neuropathic pain support existing evidence from animal studies on SCI‐related neuropathic pain.
Acute ischaemic stroke in active cancer versus non‐cancer patients: stroke characteristics, mechanisms and clinical outcomes
Authors: Costamagna Gianluca , Hottinger Andreas F. , Milionis Haralampos , Salerno Alexander , Strambo Davide , Livio Francoise , Navi Babak B. , Michel Patrik
Published: January 2024

Background and purpose

Demographics, clinical characteristics, stroke mechanisms and long‐term outcomes were compared between acute ischaemic stroke (AIS) patients with active cancer (AC) versus non‐cancer patients.

Methods

Using data from 2003 to 2021 in the Acute STroke Registry and Analysis of Lausanne, a retrospective cohort study was performed comparing patients with AC, including previously known and newly diagnosed cancers, with non‐cancer patients. Patients with inactive cancer were excluded. Outcomes were the modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score at 3 months, death and cerebrovascular recurrences at 12 months before and after propensity score matching.

Results

Amongst 6686 patients with AIS, 1065 (15.9%) had a history of cancer. After excluding 700 (10.4%) patients with inactive cancer, there were 365 (5.5%) patients with AC and 5621 (84%) non‐cancer AIS patients. Amongst AC patients, 154 (42.2%) strokes were classified as cancer related. In multivariable analysis, patients with AC were older (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 1.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.00–1.03), had fewer vascular risk factors and were 48% less likely to receive reperfusion therapies (aOR 0.52, 95% CI 0.35–0.76). Three‐month mRS scores were not different in AC patients (aOR 2.18, 95% CI 0.96–5.00). At 12 months, death (adjusted hazard ratio 1.91, 95% CI 1.50–2.43) and risk of cerebrovascular recurrence (sub‐distribution hazard ratio 1.68, 95% CI 1.22–2.31) before and after propensity score matching were higher in AC patients.

Conclusions

In a large institutional registry spanning nearly two decades, AIS patients with AC had less past cerebrovascular disease but a higher 1‐year risk of subsequent death and cerebrovascular recurrence compared to non‐cancer patients. Antithrombotic medications at discharge may reduce this risk in AC patients.
Prejudicial findings regarding suitability for intended purpose during pre‐purchase examinations in a mixed horse population—A retrospective observational study in the United Kingdom
Authors: Shelton Annabel V. , Tupper Jason , Bolt David M.
Published: January 2024

Background

Pre‐purchase examinations (PPEs) are performed for prospective purchasers of horses to identify prejudicial findings that could make animals unsuitable for an intended use. Although this examination process is often standardised, PPEs remain, in large parts, a subjective procedure. In the United Kingdom, PPEs generally consist of either a two stage (two stage vetting [2SV], i.e., general physical examination at rest and basic trot in‐hand) or a five stage‐examination (five stage vetting [5SV], i.e., general physical exam at rest and after exercise, lameness evaluation including strenuous exercise with re‐evaluation after a period of recovery).

Objectives

To identify the proportion of PPEs with prejudicial findings in a mixed horse population in the United Kingdom and to determine those findings.

Study design

Retrospective observational study.

Methods

PPE certificates from three first opinion equine practices were reviewed. Data collected included practice identity, examination format (i.e., 2SV or 5SV), PPE outcome, radiographs obtained (yes/no), purchase price, animal signalment, intended use and prejudicial PPE findings, if indicated. Prejudicial findings were grouped in 10 subcategories. Descriptive statistics were obtained for all parameters. Non‐normally distributed numeric data between groups were compared using Wilcoxon rank‐sum test. Categorical data were compared between groups using Pearson's chi‐squared test or Fisher's exact test.

Results

Overall, 133 pre‐purchase examination certificates were analysed. Seventy‐six horses (57.1%) had prejudicial findings: Sixty‐one (68.5%) horses undergoing 5SV and 15 (34.1%) of horses undergoing 2SV. Most horses had lameness as the primary prejudicial finding. Horses with a higher purchase price were more likely to undergo 5SV, undergo pre‐purchase radiography, and were more likely to have prejudicial findings identified.

Main limitations

Data were obtained retrospectively from PPE certificates from a single mixed horse population and different results may have been obtained by analysing a larger number of animals or PPEs of horses intended for different uses, from different geographical regions or undergoing a different PPE format. The level of competition in the intended discipline for horses was not recorded. Analysed data were limited to the information recorded on the PPE certificates, and the original radiographs, ultrasonography images and other additional diagnostic data were not reviewed.

Conclusions

Lameness was the most common prejudicial PPE finding. More expensive horses were more likely to undergo a 5SV, have pre‐purchase radiographs obtained and have prejudicial findings identified. These results may help inform prospective studies examining the merits of 5SV versus 2SV formats and the value of inclusion of additional diagnostic imaging in PPEs in the general horse population.
Planktic diatom responses to spatiotemporal environmental variation in high‐mountain tropical lakes
Authors: Luethje Melina , Mosquera Pablo V. , Hampel Henrietta , Fritz Sherilyn C. , Benito Xavier
Published: January 2024

Tropical lakes harbour high levels of biodiversity, but the temporal and spatial variability of biological communities are still inadequately characterised, making it difficult to predict the impact of accelerated rates of environmental change in these regions. Our goal was to identify the spatiotemporal dynamics of the planktic diatom community in the Cajas Massif in the tropical Andes.

We analysed seasonal diatom and environmental data over a period of 1 year from 10 lakes located in geologically distinct basins and modelled community–environment relationships using multivariate ordination and variation partitioning techniques. Generalised additive models with a full‐subset information theoretic approach also were used to determine which environmental variables explain single‐species abundance.

Although the lakes are monomictic and thus have variable thermal structure across the year, seasonal variability of water chemistry conditions was negligible, and seasonal differences in diatom community composition were small. Across space, diatom community composition was correlated primarily with ionic content (divalent cations and alkalinity), related to bedrock composition, and secondly with lake thermal structure and productivity. The ionic gradient overrode the effect of the thermal structure–productivity gradient at the diatom community level, whereas individual diatom species responded more sensitively to variables related to in‐lake and catchment productivity, including chlorophyll‐a and iron, and the proportion of wetlands in the catchment.

Our results indicate that the spatiotemporal variability of Cajas lakes and their diatom communities is the result of multiple intertwined environmental factors. The emergence of the ionic and thermal structure–productivity gradients in a rather small tropical lake district suggests segregation of ecological niches for diatoms that also may be important in other high‐elevation lake regions. Future studies that track tropical Andean lakes under natural and anthropogenically mediated change, both in contemporary times and in palaeoenvironmental reconstructions, would benefit from the modelling approach (community and species levels) developed here.
What guidance exists to support patient partner compensation practices? A scoping review of available policies and guidelines
Authors: Fox Grace , Fergusson Dean A. , Sadeknury Ahmed , Nicholls Stuart G. , Smith Maureen , Stacey Dawn , Lalu Manoj M.
Published: January 2024

Background

An integral aspect of patient engagement in research, also known as patient and public involvement, is appropriately recognising patient partners for their contributions through compensation (e.g., coauthorship, honoraria). Despite known benefits to compensating patient partners, our previous work suggested compensation is rarely reported and researchers perceive a lack of guidance on this issue. To address this gap, we identified and summarised available guidance and policy documents for patient partner compensation.

Methods

We conducted this scoping review in accordance with methods suggested by the JBI. We searched the grey literature (Google, Google Scholar) in March 2022 and Overton (an international database of policy documents) in April 2022. We included articles, guidance or policy documents regarding the compensation of patient partners for their research contributions. Two reviewers independently extracted and synthesised document characteristics and recommendations.

Results

We identified 65 guidance or policy documents. Most documents were published in Canada (57%, n = 37) or the United Kingdom (26%, n = 17). The most common recommended methods of nonfinancial compensation were offering training opportunities to patient partners (40%, n = 26) and facilitating patient partner attendance at conferences (38%, n = 25). The majority of guidance documents (95%) suggested financially compensating (i.e., offering something of monetary value) patient partners for their research contributions. Across guidance documents, the recommended monetary value of financial compensation was relatively consistent and associated with the role played by patient partners and/or specific engagement activities. For instance, the median monetary value for obtaining patient partner feedback (i.e., consultation) was $19/h (USD) (range of $12–$50/h). We identified several documents that guide the compensation of specific populations, including youth and Indigenous peoples.

Conclusion

Multiple publicly available resources exist to guide researchers, patient partners and institutions in developing tailored patient partner compensation strategies. Our findings challenge the perception that a lack of guidance hinders patient partner financial compensation. Future efforts should prioritise the effective implementation of these compensation strategies to ensure that patient partners are appropriately recognised.

Patient or Public Contributions

The patient partner coauthor informed protocol development, identified data items, and interpreted findings.
The oral and systemic health impact profile for periodontal disease (OSHIP‐Perio)—Part 1: development and validation
Authors: Wong Li Beng , Yap Adrian Ujin , Sim Yu Fan , Allen Patrick Finbarr
Published: January 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to develop and validate the Oral and Systemic Health Impact Profile for Periodontal Disease (OSHIP‐Perio), a disease‐specific instrument for assessing the impact of periodontal disease on both general and oral health‐related quality of life.

Methods

A pool of 58 items, developed from the Oral Health Impact Profile (OHIP‐49) and data generated through semi‐structured patient interviews, was tested on 80 case subjects with periodontal disease and 80 control subjects. The dimensionality of the preliminary measure was evaluated using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Rasch analysis was then performed on the primary dimension using the Winsteps software (Version 5.1.4.0) to render the final items for the OSHIP‐Perio. The reliability and validity of the final OSHIP‐Perio were subsequently determined.

Results

Using an EFA factor loading >0.50, the primary dimension comprised 18 items. Using Rasch analysis, four items were subsequently excluded. The final OSHIP‐Perio with 14 items showed excellent test–retest reliability (overall intraclass correlation coefficient index = 0.99) and internal consistency (overall Cronbach's alpha coefficient = 0.96). It also exhibited good discriminant validity when case and control groups were compared (p < 0.001). It showed very strong correlations (rho coefficients >0.90) with the OHIP‐5, OHIP‐14 and OHIP‐49, exhibiting good concurrent validity. It demonstrated a moderate correlation (rho coefficient = 0.60) with the global health rating, exhibiting a moderate convergent validity.

Conclusions

The 14‐item OSHIP‐Perio exhibited good psychometric properties comparable to the OHIP‐5, OHIP‐14 and OHIP‐49 for evaluating the impact of periodontal disease on quality of life.
Mechanical properties of SiCf/SiC composites with h‐BN interphase formed by the electrophoretic deposition method
Authors: Yoshida Katsumi , Kasakura Mayuko , Gubarevich Anna , Kotani Masaki
Published: January 2024

Silicon carbide fiber–reinforced silicon carbide (SiCf/SiC) composites have been expected to be used as next‐generation heat resistant structural materials with high reliability. The fiber/matrix interface for SiCf/SiC composites plays an important role for toughening and strengthening, and it is important to form the optimal interphase for SiCf/SiC composites. In this study, hexagonal‐boron nitride (h‐BN), which shows better oxidation resistance than carbon, was selected as the interphase for SiCf/SiC composites, and h‐BN coating was formed on low‐conductive SiC fibers by the electrophoretic deposition (EPD) method using flaked h‐BN suspension prepared by wet‐jet milling. Unidirectional SiCf/SiC composites with the BN interphase formed by the EPD method were prepared by polymer impregnation and pyrolysis (PIP) method, and their mechanical properties were evaluated. The uniform h‐BN interphase was successfully formed on the low‐conductive SiC fibers by EPD when thin polypyrrole (Ppy) coating, that is, conductive polymer, was formed on the SiC fibers. The h‐BN coating became denser by heat‐treatment at 1000°C, and the h‐BN coating deposited tightly on the SiC fibers was confirmed. It was demonstrated that the SiCf/SiC composites with the uniform and relatively dense h‐BN interphase formed by EPD using flaked h‐BN particles exhibited pseudo‐ductile fracture behavior with large amount of fiber pullout and higher fracture energy.
Fabrication and characterisation of pea protein isolate‐chlorogenic acid nanoparticles
Authors: Liang Luodan , Cao Weiwei , Li Linlin , Liu Wenchao , Wei Xinyu , Chen Junliang , Ren Guangyue , Zhao Yike , Duan Xu
Published: January 2024

Chlorogenic acid (CA) is a natural antioxidant with multiple biological activities, but its stability is poor. In this article, CA‐load pea protein nanoparticles (PPCNPs) were constructed by an anti‐solvent method to enhance CA stability and characterised by multiple technologies. The results exhibited that the particle size of PPCNPs ranged from 211.62 to 429.79 nm, and the zeta potential ranged from −41.21 to −35.85 mV. PPCNPs had the highest encapsulation efficiency (61.2%) at the CA/pea protein isolate (PPI) mass ratio of 1:20. The loading capacity increased with the ratio of CA/PPI ranging from 1.3% to 3.8%. SEM showed that the nanoparticle surface was an irregular lamellar structure. FTIR showed that O–H and C–H functional group interactions occurred between CA and PPI. DSC results showed that CA was encapsulated in PPCNPs with an amorphous structure. During in vitro digestion, the ABTS radical scavenging ability and retention ratio of CA in PPCNPs was higher than that of free CA. Moreover, PPCNPs increased the bio‐accessibility of CA in vitro by 7.75%, compared with unencapsulated CA. These results suggested that PPCNPs constructed by the anti‐solvent method can reduce the degradation of CA and improve the biological activity of CA.
CO2‐NBs‐ assisted enzymatic hydrolysis as a new green approach for extraction of phenolic compounds from rhizomes of Polygonatum cyrtonema Hua
Authors: Ai Rong , Ettoumi Fatima‐Ezzahra , Ma Yueran , Li Dong , Lv Weide , Luo Zisheng
Published: January 2024

The integration of carbon dioxide‐nanobubbles (CO2‐NBs) with cellulase has led to the development of an innovative extraction system for phenolic compound retrieval from P. cyrtonema (Polygonatum cyrtonema) Hua rhizomes. Four critical factors influencing on CO2‐NBs‐cellulase were methodically investigated and optimised through single‐factor experiments. The optimal experimental conditions are 30 cycles, 0.35 MPa, pH 5.45 and 0.025 g/mL cellulase aqueous solution. The stability of system was characterised meticulously, indicating the viability for at least 24 h. Comparative assessment of bioactive constituents and antioxidant activity demonstrated exceptional extraction efficiency and potential synergistic effects of CO2‐NBs‐cellulase. Synergistic effects and reaction mechanisms during extraction were explored using Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy, differential scanning calorimetry and scanning electron microscopy, which contributed to mechanism understanding with significant alterations in partial structure and heightened thermal stability we found. In essence, this study introduces an eco‐friendly, energy‐efficient extraction system paradigm based on a novel nanobubble‐enzyme binding approach.
High entropy oxide as interfacial material for toughened textured alumina
Authors: Liu Junbo , Ma Zhuoran , Behera Rohit Pratyush , He Hongying , Xiong Ji , Le Ferrand Hortense
Published: January 2024

Textured alumina ceramics with brick‐and‐mortar microstructures exhibit surprisingly high values of strength and toughness as compared to traditional ceramics. However, in full ceramic systems, pressure‐assisted sintering restricts their shaping potential, and the study of interfacial materials is still insufficient. Here, we fabricate textured alumina exhibiting elevated indentation fracture toughness using a high entropy oxide (HEO) (MgAlSiTiZr)O as the mortar. The HEO undergoes a single‐phase transformation at 1600°C, resulting in a crystallographic structure identical to that of ZrO2. Our HEO mortar is tough and has a high wetting behavior to alumina platelets used in the green body, which promotes densification via liquid phase sintering. Textured alumina ceramics with HEO mortar at concentrations varying from 0 to 90 wt% were fabricated using magnetically assisted slip casting and pressureless sintering through the templated grain growth process. A trade‐off between density and grain anisotropy led to the highest mechanical properties. Textured alumina with 10 wt% HEO exhibited over 95% relative density, an elastic modulus of 244 ± 29 GPa, a flexural strength of 329 ± 27 MPa, and an indentation fracture toughness of 6.80 ± 0.65 MPa∙m0.5, which is more than 1.9 times that of the usual polycrystalline alumina. Thanks to the mineral nature of HEO, the simplicity of the process, and the mechanical properties, the textured alumina with HEO mortar can be produced in complex shapes and could find applications in stringent environments.
An Iapetus origin for a layered eclogite complex in the northern Western Gneiss Region, Scandinavian Caledonides
Authors: Möller Charlotte , Cai Yue , Brueckner Hannes K. , Szilas Kristoffer , Whitehouse Martin J.
Published: January 2024

The Western Gneiss Region (WGR) is a Precambrian basement domain in the Scandinavian Caledonides and one of the world's largest high‐ and ultrahigh‐pressure terranes. The south–central WGR underwent regional eclogite facies metamorphism 415–400 Ma ago when Baltica subducted beneath Laurentia, during the Scandian orogeny. Eclogites in the WGR group into two traditional types: (1) Precambrian mafic intrusions metamorphosed in situ during Scandian continental subduction and (2) eclogites, garnet peridotites and garnet pyroxenites within ultramafic complexes derived from the subcontinental mantle beneath Laurentia. We document, using field relations, petrography, whole‐rock geochemistry and secondary ion mass spectrometry (SIMS) zircon geochronology, a hitherto unrecognized third type of eclogite in the WGR that places new constraints on its tectonic architecture: an eclogitized fragment of oceanic crust from the Iapetus Ocean. The Kråkfjord eclogite complex is a km2‐sized body with an interior consisting of kyanite eclogite (meta‐troctolite) and subordinate layers and lenses of garnet peridotite, garnet websterite and kyanite–garnet leucotonalite. This interior is capped by Fe–Ti‐rich eclogite, which locally contains subordinate pockets of migmatitic aluminous gneiss. The elemental abundances and isotopic compositions of the Fe–Ti‐rich eclogites resemble those of mid‐ocean ridge basalt (MORB). In contrast, the interior kyanite eclogites, peridotites and pyroxenites have compositions similar to the gabbroic cumulates in the lower oceanic crust of slow‐spreading ridges. U–Pb SIMS dating of igneous zircon cores from a leucotonalite pod in the interior of the Kråkfjord complex yields Cambro‐Ordovician igneous ages of 500–440 Ma, with the ~500 Ma age interpreted as the isotopically undisturbed age. This age matches those of Iapetan oceanic rocks exposed elsewhere in the mountain belt. Metamorphic zircon from an Fe–Ti‐rich eclogite in the carapace of the Kråkfjord complex dates the eclogite facies metamorphism at 421.9 ± 2.2 Ma, synchronous with the continental collision. Zircon from a leucosome in Fe–Ti‐rich retro‐eclogite indicates an age of 408.5 ± 2 Ma for the crystallization of partial melt following the decompression. Detrital zircon core ages from a pocket of aluminous migmatitic gneiss in the carapace indicate derivation of sediment from the Baltic crust. Collectively, the data show that the eclogite complex (1) originated at an Iapetus spreading centre near the continent Baltica, (2) subducted to eclogite conditions during Scandian continental collision and (3) was tectonically intercalated with the Precambrian Baltica basement of the WGR.
Comparative morphology of oral glands in snakes of the family Homalopsidae reveals substantial variation and additional independent origins of salt glands within Serpentes
Authors: de Oliveira Leonardo , Gower David J. , Wilkinson Mark , Segall Marion
Published: January 2024

Using diffusible iodine‐based contrast‐enhanced computed tomography (diceCT), we examined the morphology of the oral glands of 12 species of the family Homalopsidae. Snakes of this family exhibit substantial interspecific morphological variation in their oral glands. Particular variables are the venom glands, ranging from large (e.g., Subsessor bocourti) to small (e.g., Erpeton tentaculatum). The supra‐ and infralabial glands are more uniform in morphology, being the second most developed in almost all the sampled species. Premaxillary glands distinct from the supralabial glands were observed in five species (Myron richardsonii, Bitia hydroides, Cantoria violacea, Fordonia leucobalia, and Gerarda prevostiana), in addition to Cerberus rynchops, the only species in which this condition was previously documented associated with the excretion of salt. In the three species of the saltwater group of homalopsids (C. violacea, F. leucobalia, and G. prevostiana), the premaxillary glands also extend posteriorly, occupying a large area above the supralabial gland, a condition not observed in any other species of snake studied thus far. Character evolution analyses indicate that premaxillary glands differentiated from the supralabial gland and evolved independently three or four times in the family, always in lineages that invaded marine habitats. Our results suggest that the differentiated premaxillary glands are likely salt glands, as is the case in C. rynchops. If corroborated, this increases to six or seven the number of independent evolutionary origins of salt glands in snakes that have undergone an evolutionary transition to marine life.
Cultural shock of high‐speed rail: Evidence from social trust
Authors: Chen Fanglin , Chen Zhongfei
Published: January 2024

The opening of high‐speed rail (HSR), as an exogenous shock, has had a profound and complex effect on social life. This study analyzes the effect of the opening of HSR on social trust. Results show that the opening of HSR promotes social trust. Mechanism analysis showed that although the opening of HSR accelerated population mobility and decreased trust in strangers, economic growth and improvement of local social issues mitigated the negative effects of its opening. In addition, our results also show that individuals turn to trust in their parents, neighbors, and doctors. Considering the potential endogeneity problem, instrumental variable and difference‐in‐differences estimators consistently indicated the promoting effect of the HSR opening on trust. Heterogeneity analysis showed that the opening of HSR had a greater effect on female, urban residents, younger groups, and married people. Last, cities with larger populations and tourist cities were more vulnerable to shocks.
Prevalence of hepatitis C among pregnant women in an Appalachian population
Authors: Pollock Taylor S. , Robert Chris A. , Seybold Dara J. , Hur Marisa , Broton Alina , Calhoun Byron C.
Published: January 2024

The opioid crisis has adversely affected West Virginia's pregnant and infant populations. With high rates of opioid use disorder and neonatal abstinence syndrome, West Virginia has the highest rates of Hepatitis C (HCV) acute infection among pregnant women. To better understand how HCV impacts an already high‐risk population, the study purpose was to (1) describe its prevalence among women receiving prenatal care at a single tertiary care clinic in Appalachia and compare with state and national rates, and (2) determine whether it is associated with preterm birth (gestation <37 weeks). Data were collected on a retrospective cohort of pregnant patients universally screened for HCV between 2017 and 2021. The study cohort had an HCV infection rate of 119/988 = 11.94% or 119.4 per 1000. This is five times the rate of 22.6 per 1000 live births in West Virginia in 2014 and 35 times the national rate of 3.4 per 1000 live births (MMWR Morb Mortal Wkly Rep 66, 2017 and 470). Viral loads were detected in 63 (6.38%) of patients. The study cohort with birth outcome data had high rates of tobacco use (326/720; 45.3%) and substance abuse (209/720; 29.0%). The preterm birth rate was 17.8% (128/720), almost double the national average (10.09%) (Natl Vital Stat Rep 70, 2021 and 1). There was no statistically significant difference in preterm birth between HCV‐positive (15/92; 16.3%) and HCV‐negative (113/628; 18.0%) patients. HCV infection in our population presents a significant public health issue and missed opportunity for treatment in a population with continuity of care challenges. These findings could be used to justify a pilot program for early postpartum referral for treatment.
Hsa_circ_0010882 facilitates hepatocellular carcinoma progression by modulating M1/M2 macrophage polarization
Authors: Yang Ming , Yu Tao , Han Li
Published: January 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is one common malignant tumour with a high immunosuppressive tumour microenvironment and poor outcomes. This study investigated the influence of hsa_circ_0010882 on M1/M2 macrophage polarization in the progression of HCC. A total of 125 paired tissue specimens from HCC patients who underwent hepatectomy were collected. M1 and M2 phenotypes macrophages were induced using THP‐1. After co‐cultured with macrophages and transfected HCC cells, the viability, migration and invasion of HCC cells were detected by cellular experiments. Bioinformatic databases and dual‐luciferase reporter assays were used to predict and validate the interaction between circ_0010882 and miR‐382. Expression of circ_0010882 was increased in HCC tissues and associated with shorter overall survival outcomes. The mRNA expression of M2 macrophage markers Arg‐1, CD163 and CD206 were elevated in HCC tissues. Interfering with circ_0010882 increased M1‐type macrophage markers (TNF‐α and iNOS) while decreasing M2‐type macrophage markers (Arg‐1 and CD206). Silencing of circ_0010882 strengthened the capacity of M1 macrophages to suppress HCC cell viability, migration capacities and invasion potential while reducing the ability of M2 macrophages to promote above cellular abilities. MiR‐382 was a direct target miRNA of circ_0010882. The circ_0010882 expression was increased in HCC tissues and associated with poor prognosis of HCC patients. Silencing of circ_0010882 inhibits macrophage M2 polarization in HCC progression by regulating miR‐382 expression. Circ_0010882 may serve as a biomarker to provide novel strategies for the treatment of HCC and patient rehabilitation, thereby improving the prognosis of patients.
Near or far: revision of distribution, breeding and winter ranges of two sibling Pipistrellus species (Chiroptera, Vespertilionidae) in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus
Authors: Godlevska Lena , Gazaryan Suren
Published: January 2024

Knowledge of species distribution and, for migratory species, seasonal occurrence is particularly important for vulnerable and protected animals such as bats. The former European bat species Pipistrellus pipistrellus was split into two, Pipistrelus pipistrellus s.s. and Pipistrelus pygmaeus, over 20 years ago. However, their distribution, breeding and winter ranges as well as migratory status in Eastern Europe and the Caucasus remained obscure.

In our study, we scrutinised records of both species and assessed the sex ratio during their breeding season in this region.

We show that Pipistrellus pipistrellus s.s. has a significantly smaller range than previously assumed, being restricted to the southern part of the study area. On the contrary, Pipistrelus pygmaeus has a broader distribution, covering the Caucasus and Eastern Europe, up to ca. 59° N. Hence, all historical records and long‐distance movements of Pipistrellus pipistrellus sensu lato from Eastern Europe within the inferred allopatric occurrence of Pipistrelus pygmaeus should be attributed to Pipistrelus pygmaeus.

The high portion of adult males in breeding localities, mass wintering within the breeding range and lacking evidence of long‐distance seasonal movements imply that Pipistrellus pipistrellus s.s. is a sedentary species. In Pipistrelus pygmaeus, the sex ratio among adults during the breeding season varies latitudinally. The female‐biased sex ratio, absence of mass wintering and the historical long‐distance recoveries of ringed individuals suggest that this species is migratory in Eastern Europe. The male‐biased sex ratio during the breeding season, along with late autumn records, suggests that the Caucasus represents its winter range.