bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COVID-19 and the participatory place branding impasse: a study of actor agency
Authors: Reynolds Laura
Published: July 2023

Purpose

This paper aims to investigate the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on participatory place branding processes and, in particular, on multiple actors’ ability to build agency.

Design/methodology/approach

An in-depth qualitative inquiry of place branding processes in Cardiff (UK) was undertaken during the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. Semi-structured (online) interviews with 28 city representatives from the public, private and voluntary sectors are analysed using three-stage conceptual coding.

Findings

Five transitions in the meaning-making and engagement processes at the nexus of participatory place branding are identified: heightening value of the local environment; building and sharing local knowledge; embedding a sense of community into relational networks; innovating engagement channels; and blurring of roles and responsibilities. Combined, these demonstrate a cultivating place (brand) attachment and evolving logics around participation.

Research limitations/implications

Transitions in actor agency require monitoring over time, drawing on additional studies, wider samples and multidisciplinary frameworks.

Practical implications

Local knowledge and multi-actor networks are increasingly viewed as valuable assets, providing legitimacy for those in possession of these resources and for the brand. Practitioners, policy makers and community representatives should support innovative ways to involve and learn from local actors, including those not currently active across the place brand web.

Originality/value

Antecedents to actor agency are investigated, highlighting that during a period of disruption actors gained legitimacy for their participation by emphasising the value attached to localities, building place (brand) attachment and drawing on blurred place branding boundaries.
Risky? So, why people are getting back to invest in cryptocurrencies? The United Arab Emirates as a case
Authors: Alsmadi Ayman Abdalmajeed , Shuhaiber Ahmed , Al-Omoush Khaled Saleh
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to investigate the determinants of users' intention to continue to invest in cryptocurrencies. The paper also aims to examine the impact of hedonic motivation and the legal environment on perceived value in cryptocurrencies.

Design/methodology/approach

A questionnaire was designed to obtain data from 258 respondents in UAE. The Structural Equation Modeling – Partial Least Squares (SEM-PLS) was used to evaluate the research model and test the hypotheses.

Findings

The results of smart PLS path analysis showed that perceived value, hedonic motivation, gambling attitude, and price volatility were significant determinants of the continued intention to invest in cryptocurrency. This study also revealed that hedonic motivation enhances perceived value and improves the perception of cryptocurrencies value from user's perspective.

Originality/value

This study provides new insights into the literature on cryptocurrencies adoption, and delivers advanced understanding about the determinants of user's intention to continue investing in cryptocurrencies. In addition, the study provides important practical implications for cryptocurrencies companies to promote this financial technology to users by enhancing the knowledge of policy makers about how investors think and get motivated towards a continued investment of cryptocurrencies.
What are the best practices for End-of-Life Vehicle management – A practical assessment of estimates, perceptions and policies
Authors: Kumar Vibhash , Verma Ashima , Kumar Arnav
Published: July 2023

Purpose

The primary purpose of the present research is to assess the people's awareness level of End-of-Life Vehicle (ELV) management in India. The study proposes to estimate the projected annual demand for the new ELVs over 15 years from 2020–2035 and assess the growth rate in new annual ELVs.

Design/methodology/approach

Employing a mixed method study, the authors obtained secondary data from the annual reports from the Society of Indian Automobile Manufacturers (SIAM). In Study 1, the authors employed log-linear regression and compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) to compute the growth rates for these projections. After that, the authors collected the primary data of vehicle users (n = 920) using survey methodology, both open and closed-ended items completed the test battery (Study 2A and 2B). While open-ended items were analyzed qualitatively, the closed-ended items were analyzed quantitatively.

Findings

The estimation of annual ELV estimates and their cumulative figures over 15 years determined the market size in the future, outlining the importance of ELV management. The qualitative approach helped deduce the people's most prominent sentiments regarding decommissioning and the ELV management process. From the primary analysis, the authors concluded that people perceived the ELV management process positively; however, there are areas where the government's specific attention is warranted.

Originality/value

In this study, the authors have outlined how specific measures in ELV management can result in a sustainable circular economy. Additionally, the authors have designed a test battery to understand people's perception, which is first of its kind effort to understand what people think about ELV management. Studies globally considering people's perception of ELV can employ the test battery designed for this study. Additionally, countries that have ELV management in nascent stages can refer to India's experience with ELV management and the related people's perception.
Comparative proteomic and phenotypic changes of LuxS‐mediated hyperosmotic tolerance in Cronobacter malonaticus
Authors: Ou Dexin , Ling Na , Tong Liaowang , Zhang Danfeng , Shen Yizhong , Ye Yingwang
Published: July 2023

Cronobacter malonaticus is a highly hyperosmotic‐resistant pathogen classified as Class A pathogen by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). This study explored the roles of LuxS as a quorum‐sensing transcription factor in C. malonaticus to tolerate hyperosmotic stress, illustrating that LuxS contributed to survival, biofilm formation and reduced cellular injury when grown with 5.5% NaCl stress. Comparative proteomics between C. malonaticus WT and ΔluxS demonstrated that differentially expressed proteins (DEPs) were abundant in Fe‐S cluster proteins and oxidoreductases, suggesting a potential cross‐tolerance mediated by LuxS could contribute to resisting hyperosmotic stress. Herein, these findings will provide valuable information on LuxS‐mediated osmotic tolerance to controlling C. malonaticus contamination.
From accurate genome sequence to biotechnological application: The thermophile Mycolicibacterium hassiacum as experimental model
Authors: Sánchez‐Costa Mercedes , Gola Susanne , Rodríguez‐Sáiz Marta , Barredo José‐Luis , Hidalgo Aurelio , Berenguer José
Published: July 2023

Mycobacteria constitute a large group of microorganisms belonging to the phylum Actinobacteria encompassing some of the most relevant pathogenic bacteria and many saprophytic isolates that share a unique and complex cell envelope. Also unique to this group is the extensive capability to use and synthesize sterols, a class of molecules that include active signalling compounds of pharmaceutical use. However, few mycobacterial species and strains have been established as laboratory models to date, Mycolicibacterium smegmatis mc2155 being the most common one. In this work, we focus on the use of a thermophilic mycobacterium, Mycolicibacterium hassiacum, which grows optimally above 50°C, as an emerging experimental model valid to extend our general knowledge of mycobacterial biology as well as for application purposes. To that end, accurate genomic sequences are key for gene mining, the study of pathogenicity or lack thereof and the potential for gene transfer. The combination of long‐ and short‐massive sequencing technologies is strictly necessary to remove biases caused by errors specific to long‐reads technology. By doing so in M. hassiacum, we obtained from the curated genome clues regarding the genetic manipulation potential of this microorganism from the presence of insertion sequences, CRISPR‐Cas, type VII ESX secretion systems, as well as lack of plasmids. Finally, as a proof of concept of the applicability of M. hassiacum as a laboratory and industrial model, we used this high‐quality genome of M. hassiacum to successfully knockout a gene involved in the use of phytosterols as source of carbon and energy, using an improved gene cassette for thermostable selection and a transformation protocol at high temperature.
Tracking marine tetrapod carcasses using a low‐cost mixed methodology with GPS trackers, passive drifters and citizen science
Authors: Tavares Maurício , Ott Paulo Henrique , Borges‐Martins Márcio
Published: July 2023

Drift experiments are essential to understand stranding patterns and estimate the mortality of beached animals. Most studies do not use telemetry technology due to the high costs of this methodology. The objective of this paper is to describe the possibilities of tracking marine tetrapod carcasses with a low‐cost and replicable methodology. The study was carried out on the Southern Subtropical Shelf (~28°–34°S), a highly productive and key ecological region of the southwestern Atlantic Ocean (SWA).

We designed and tested a low‐cost mixed methodology that includes Global Positioning System trackers, passive drifters (reused glass bottles) and Citizen Science (through an instant message platform and email) to track carcasses of marine tetrapods. We conducted four drift experiments during the four seasons of 2019. We released 787 drifters (600 nonbiological and 187 carcasses of seabirds, sea turtles, and cetaceans) at sea, at five equally separated distances (5–25 km) from the coast. Beach surveys and citizen science were implemented to recover the beached drifters.

We recovered 71.83% of non‐biological drifters and 27.27% of carcasses released. We tracked the movements of 38 carcasses (25 sea turtles and 13 cetaceans) with 17 GPS devices. The drifting time, until reaching the beach, ranged from 12 h to 17 days for carcasses and 12 h to 406 days for bottles. Citizen Science was the most important source of recovery of nonbiological drifters, representing 66.67% of the total recovered bottles. For carcasses, active search was the most important recovery source, representing 64.7% of the total carcasses recovered.

Our study contributes with new findings on marine tetrapod drift patterns in the SWA and describes an accessible low‐cost mixed methodology for small and medium‐budget projects that can be replicated in other coastal regions of the world for tracking a wide range of marine tetrapod species.
The lipidomic correlates of epigenetic aging across the adult lifespan: A population‐based study
Authors: Liu Dan , Aziz N. Ahmad , Landstra Elvire Nadieh , Breteler Monique M. B.
Published: July 2023

Lipid signaling is involved in longevity regulation, but which specific lipid molecular species affect human biological aging remains largely unknown. We investigated the relation between complex lipids and DNA methylation‐based metrics of biological aging among 4181 participants (mean age 55.1 years (range 30.0–95.0)) from the Rhineland Study, an ongoing population‐based cohort study in Bonn, Germany. The absolute concentration of 14 lipid classes, covering 964 molecular species and 267 fatty acid composites, was measured by Metabolon Complex Lipid Panel. DNA methylation‐based metrics of biological aging (AgeAccelPheno and AgeAccelGrim) were calculated based on published algorithms. Epigenome‐wide association analyses (EWAS) of biological aging‐associated lipids and pathway analysis were performed to gain biological insights into the mechanisms underlying the effects of lipidomics on biological aging. We found that higher levels of molecular species belonging to neutral lipids, phosphatidylethanolamines, phosphatidylinositols, and dihydroceramides were associated with faster biological aging, whereas higher levels of lysophosphatidylcholine, hexosylceramide, and lactosylceramide species were associated with slower biological aging. Ceramide, phosphatidylcholine, and lysophosphatidylethanolamine species with odd‐numbered fatty acid tail lengths were associated with slower biological aging, whereas those with even‐numbered chain lengths were associated with faster biological aging. EWAS combined with functional pathway analysis revealed several complex lipids associated with biological aging as important regulators of known longevity and aging‐related pathways.
Countering racist nativism through a liberating pedagogy of praxis
Authors: Casanova Carlos R. , Domínguez Ashley D.
Published: July 2023

This article uses a framework that combines LatCrit theory, racist nativism, and liberating pedagogy of praxis (LPP) to examine how a community youth program's LPP practices countered the racist nativism Latinx youth experience in their high school. LPP practices challenged racist nativism by creating a space where Latinx youth faced each other in circles to engage in authentic collective intergenerational dialogue about lived experiences of racist nativism, which cultivated solidarity and a call to action.
A qualitative exploration of gynaecological healthcare experiences of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer people assigned female at birth
Authors: Thomas Cleo , Dwyer Angela , Batchelor Jack , Van Niekerk Leesa
Published: July 2023

Background

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, asexual/aromantic (LGBTQA+) people, assigned female at birth (AFAB), experience disproportionately poorer gynaecological healthcare outcomes compared to their cisgender, heterosexual peers. The barriers to gynaecological care remain poorly understood. In a step toward bridging this gap, the current study explored the lived gynaecological healthcare experiences of Australian LGBTQA+ AFAB people and the barriers they experience in accessing care.

Materials and Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 22 LGBTQA+ AFAB people. An inductive thematic qualitative design was used to explore the lived experiences and identify themes associated with the reported experiences.

Results

Thematic analysis identified seven themes related to experiences in accessing gynaecological healthcare, including discrimination, fear, perceived provider or cultural incompetency, accessibility, and gender identity. Several sub‐themes were also identified such as refusal of care, microaggression, misgendering, and patient as educator.

Conclusions

Participants suggested that barriers to care could be alleviated by the integration of LGBTQA+ specific healthcare training into the university‐level medical curriculum and professional development programs that address cultural competency and inclusive healthcare. These preliminary findings inform the necessity for the development of evidence‐based practice guidelines that specifically address the unique and diverse needs of the LGBTQA+ AFAB population.
Immunoglobulin G4 in eosinophilic esophagitis: Immune complex formation and correlation with disease activity
Authors: Medernach Jonathan G. , Li Rung‐Chi , Zhao Xiao‐Yu , Yin Bocheng , Noonan Emily A. , Etter Elaine F. , Raghavan Shyam S. , Borish Larry C. , Wilson Jeffrey M. , Barnes Barrett H. , Platts‐Mills Thomas A. E. , Ewald Sarah E. , Sauer Bryan G. , McGowan Emily C.
Published: July 2023

Background

Recent studies have shown deposition of immunoglobulin G4 (IgG4) and food proteins in the esophageal mucosa of eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) patients. Our aims were to assess whether co‐localization of IgG4 and major cow's milk proteins (CMPs) was associated with EoE disease activity and to investigate the proteins enriched in proximity to IgG4 deposits.

Methods

This study included adult subjects with EoE (n = 13) and non‐EoE controls (n = 5). Esophageal biopsies were immunofluorescence stained for IgG4 and CMPs. Co‐localization in paired samples from active disease and remission was assessed and compared to controls. The proteome surrounding IgG4 deposits was evaluated by the novel technique, AutoSTOMP. IgG4‐food protein interactions were confirmed with co‐immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry.

Results

IgG4‐CMP co‐localization was higher in the active EoE group compared to paired remission samples (Bos d 4, p = .02; Bos d 5, p = .002; Bos d 8, p = .002). Co‐localization was also significantly higher in the active EoE group compared to non‐EoE controls (Bos d 4, p = .0013; Bos d 5, p = .0007; Bos d 8, p = .0013). AutoSTOMP identified eosinophil‐derived proteins (PRG 2 and 3, EPX, RNASE3) and calpain‐14 in IgG4‐enriched areas. Co‐immunoprecipitation and mass spectrometry confirmed IgG4 binding to multiple food allergens.

Conclusion

These findings further contribute to the understanding of the interaction of IgG4 with food antigens as it relates to EoE disease activity. These data strongly suggest the immune complex formation of IgG4 and major cow's milk proteins. These immune complexes may have a potential role in the pathophysiology of EoE by contributing to eosinophil activation and disease progression.
Complementary feeding practices are related to the risk of food allergy in the ELFE cohort
Authors: Adam T. , Divaret‐Chauveau A. , Roduit C. , Adel‐Patient K. , Deschildre A. , Raherison C. , Charles M.‐A. , Nicklaus S. , de Lauzon‐Guillain B.
Published: July 2023

Background

Conflicting results have been obtained when analyzing the relationship between complementary feeding (CF) practices and allergic diseases in childhood. This study aims to further explore the association between allergic diseases in early childhood (10.1016/j.jaci.2012.02.036) and the age at CF introduction (10.1016/S0140‐6736(15)00149‐X), food diversity in the first year of life (10.1016/j.ijporl.2019.109759) and the delayed introduction of major allergenic foods.

Methods

This analysis focused on 6662 children from the French nationwide ELFE cohort. Data on feeding practices were collected monthly from 3 to 10 months old. Their age at CF introduction was calculated alongside a diversity score, and the number of major allergenic foods (out of eggs, fish, wheat, and dairy products) not introduced at 8 and 10 months. Their associations with parent‐reported allergy‐related health events between 1 and 5.5 years were assessed using logistic regressions adjusted for confounding factors. A sensitivity analysis excluding early allergic cases (occurring between 2 months and 1 or 2 years) was conducted.

Results

Late CF (>6 months) was related to a higher risk of food allergy (OR [95% CI] = 1.35 [1.02; 1.78]), a low diversity score at 8 months to a higher risk of asthma (OR [95% CI] = 1.22 [1.01; 1.48]), and two allergenic foods or more not being introduced at 10 months to a higher risk of rhinoconjunctivitis (OR [95% CI] = 1.20 [1.00; 1.44]) and food allergy (OR [95% CI] = 2.46 [1.77; 3.42]). Only this last association remained significant after the exclusion of early cases.

Conclusion

The delayed introduction of major allergenic foods is related to a higher risk of food allergy, which supports the updated guidelines for allergy prevention.
Functioning in older adults with bipolar disorder: A report on recommendations by the International Society of bipolar disorder (ISBD) older adults with bipolar disorder (OABD) task force
Authors: Montejo Laura , Orhan Melis , Chen Peijun , Eyler Lisa T. , Gildengers Ariel , Martinez‐Aran Anabel , Nunes Paula Villela , Olagunju Andrew T. , Patrick Regan , Vieta Eduard , Dols Annemiek , Jimenez Esther
Published: July 2023

Objectives

Despite the importance of psychosocial functioning impairment in Bipolar Disorder (BD), its role among Older Adults with BD (OABD) is not well known. The development of guidelines for the assessment of psychosocial functioning helps to facilitate a better understanding of OABD and can lead to better tailored interventions to improve the clinical outcomes of this population.

Methods

Through a series of virtual meetings, experts from eight countries in the International Society of Bipolar Disorder (ISBD) on OABD task force developed recommendations for the assessment of psychosocial functioning.

Results

We present (1) a conceptualization of functioning in OABD and differences compared with younger patients; (2) factors related to functioning in OABD; (3) current measures of functioning in OABD and their strengths and limitations; and, (4) other potential sources of information to assess functioning.

Conclusions

The task force created recommendations for assessing functioning in OABD. Current instruments are limited, so measures specifically designed for OABD, such as the validated FAST‐O scale, should be more widely adopted. Following the proposed recommendations for assessment can improve research and clinical care in OABD and potentially lead to better treatment outcomes.
Smart access and smart protection for welfare gain in Europe during COVID‐19: An empirical investigation using real‐time data
Authors: Pasha Humaira Kamal
Published: July 2023

The COVID‐19 (Coronoavirus Disease 2019) pandemic has had many disastrous effects on welfare globally, particularly in European countries. In recent research, a new debate has arisen as a result of the shift of day‐to‐day activities to virtual platforms, which has augmented concerns related to smart (data) access and smart (data) protection. This study examines the economic, social, and psychological indicators of welfare gain within the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic and examines their impact on smart access and smart protection using the data of Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe and real‐time Google Trends from June to August 2020. The findings indicate a negative relationship between smart access and economic crisis caused by COVID‐19, while households with sufficient resources support smart protection. Psychological effects including nervousness and anxiety are highly related to smart access. Likewise, being helpful in a time of uncertainty, societal contact, and social measures (hygiene and face mask) significantly and positively impact smart protection. The findings suggest that countries should combine their welfare agencies with health and economic institutes, and initiate projects related to cybersecurity.
Lysyl oxidase‐like 2 promotes stemness and enhances antitumor effects of gefitinib in head and neck cancer via IFIT1 and IFIT3
Authors: Lu Yi‐Jie , Deng Yi‐Ting , Ko Hui‐Hsin , Peng Hsin‐Hui , Lee Hsiang‐Chieh , Kuo Mark Yen‐Ping , Cheng Shih‐Jung
Published: July 2023

Lysyl oxidase‐like 2 (LOXL2) is a matrix‐remodeling enzyme that has recently been identified as an important regulator of tumor progression and metastasis. This study discovered that LOXL2 expression in oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) tissues was significantly associated with tumor clinical stage, lymph node metastasis and patients' overall survival time. LOXL2‐overexpressing human buccal SCC TW2.6 (TW2.6/LOXL2) and hypopharyngeal SCC FaDu (FaDu/LOXL2) cells exhibited enhanced migration, invasion, epithelial–mesenchymal transition (EMT), and cancer stem cell (CSC) phenotypes, independently of its enzymatic activity. Moreover, TW2.6/LOXL2 significantly increased tumor‐initiating frequency in SCID mice. We further demonstrated that LOXL2 increased the levels of interferon‐induced protein with tetratricopeptide repeats 1 (IFIT1) and IFIT3 in TW2.6/LOXL2 and FaDu/LOXL2 cells. We also identified IFIT1 and IFIT3 as key downstream components of LOXL2 action in migration, invasion, EMT, and CSC phenotypes in TW2.6 and FaDu cells. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation between LOXL2 expression and IFIT1 and IFIT3 overexpression in human OSCC tissues was observed. In addition, TW2.6/LOXL2 and FaDu/LOXL2 cells were 3.3‐ to 3.6‐fold more susceptible to the epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) inhibitor gefitinib than were their respective control cells. The antitumor effect of gefitinib on orthotopic TW2.6/LOXL2 xenograft tumor was fourfold higher than that on controls. Our results indicate that LOXL2 expression is a strong prognostic factor for OSCC and may be used as a marker to identify patients most likely to respond to EGFR‐targeted therapy.
Role of the functional head impulse test in evaluating vestibulo‐ocular reflex abnormalities in individuals with Parkinson's disease
Authors: Karababa Ercan , Sonkaya Ali Rıza , Satar Bülent , Korkmaz Hanifi
Published: July 2023

Purpose

To assess vestibular‐ocular reflex (VOR) function in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) using a new method called functional head impulse test (fHIT).

Study Design

Case–control study.

Setting

Tertiary medical center.

Participants

Twenty individuals with PD were recruited for PD group, and twenty healthy individuals for the control group. Ages of both groups ranged from 47 to 76 years.

Main Outcome Measures

According to the modified Hoehn‐Yahr score, PD group was classified as an early stage with a range of 1–2.5 and a mid‐late stage with a range of 3–5. Percentage of correct answers (%CA) was calculated using fHIT for lateral, anterior and posterior semicircular canal (SCC) planes.

Results

PD group had statistically lower fHIT %CA in the right lateral, left lateral, and left posterior SCC planes compared to control group (p < .05). There was no statistical difference between two PD severity groups and functional VOR abnormality.

Conclusion

It was concluded that the functional VOR in the right lateral and left lateral and left posterior SCC plane was affected in individuals with PD. Our results show that impaired VOR and reduced dynamic visual acuity should be considered in individuals with PD for vestibular rehabilitation exercises.
Keratin‐positive giant cell‐rich tumors of soft tissue with HMGA2::NCOR2 fusions
Authors: Weigelt Maximillian A. , Azzato Elizabeth M. , Habermehl Gabriel K. , Billings Steven D. , Ko Jennifer S. , Fritchie Karen J.
Published: July 2023

Background

Giant cell tumor of soft tissue (GCT‐ST) is a rare soft tissue neoplasm that is morphologically similar to but genetically distinct from giant cell tumor of bone. A novel keratin‐positive GCT‐ST (KPGCT‐ST) harboring HMGA2::NCOR2 fusions was recently discovered. Fewer than 30 cases have been described; herein is reported an additional seven.

Methods

Cases diagnosed as GCT‐ST were retrieved from institutional archives and consultation files. The histopathologic characteristics were assessed, and the electronic medical record was reviewed.

Results

Seven tumors were identified in six women and one man with a median age of 23 years. All patients underwent excision; no recurrences or metastases were noted during a median follow‐up period of 7 months. Histopathologically, the tumors were characterized by a multinodular proliferation of keratin‐positive mononuclear cells with evenly admixed osteoclast‐like giant cells and absent neoplastic bone. A fibrous capsule with lymphoid cuffing was frequently seen. Foamy macrophages, inflammation, hemorrhage, and hemosiderin were variably present. The HMGA2::NCOR2 fusion was detected in all cases.

Conclusions

Our findings support previously reported hypotheses that KPGCT‐ST is a spectrum of the same entity as the recently described xanthogranulomatous epithelial tumor. Although follow‐up data are limited, to date, KPGCT‐ST appears to follow an indolent course.
Caveolin‐1 protein expression as a prognostic biomarker of gastrointestinal tumours: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Kamposioras Konstantinos , Dinas Petros C. , Barriuoso Jorge , Trachana Varvara , Dimas Konstantinos
Published: July 2023

Background

Gastrointestinal (GI) cancers remain a major threat worldwide, accounting for over 30% of cancer deaths. The identification of novel prognostic biomarkers remains a challenge despite significant advances in the field. The CAV1 gene, encoding the caveolin‐1 protein, remains enigmatic in cancer and carcinogenesis, as it has been proposed to act as both a tumour promoter and a tumour suppressor.

Methods

To analyse the differential role of caveolin‐1 expression in both tumour cells and stroma in relation to prognosis in GI tumours, we performed a systematic review and meta‐analysis according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines; PROSPERO registration number: CRD42022299148.

Results

Our analysis showed that high levels of caveolin‐1 in tumour cells were associated with poor prognosis and inferior overall survival (OS) in oesophageal and pancreatic cancer and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), but not in gastric and colorectal cancer. Importantly, our study showed that higher stromal caveolin‐1 expression was associated with significantly longer OS and disease‐free survival in colorectal cancer. Analysis of stromal caveolin‐1 expression in the remaining tumours showed a similar trend, although it did not reach statistical significance.

Conclusions

The data suggest that caveolin‐1 expression in the tumour cells of oesophageal, pancreatic cancer and HCC and in the stroma of colorectal cancer may be an important novel predictive biomarker for the clinical management of these diseases in a curative setting. However, the main conclusion of our analysis is that caveolin‐1 expression should always be assessed separately in stroma and tumour cells.
A comparison of neutral‐action and interaction‐independent integrals for mixed‐mode problems
Authors: González‐Albuixech Vicente F. , Giner Eugenio
Published: July 2023

The fracture of structures under mixed‐mode loaded cracks is usually assessed using stress intensity factors (SIFs). Domain integrals, specially the
‐integral and the interaction integral, are widely used for SIF extraction and provide high accurate estimations with finite element methods, although the
‐integral does not allow the separation of the SIF components. However, interaction integral definition implies hypothesis that are not fulfilled in generic non‐planar cracks and therefore other methods can be an option to solve this problem. A different path‐independent integral, the neutral‐action integral, was introduced in 2010 by Kienzler et al. The application of the
‐integral and the neutral‐action integral allows the computation of the SIF in a mixed‐mode situation and separate the SIF components. The presented study considers the applicability of the neutral‐action integral and investigates its limitations. The research is performed using well‐known and basic problems that can be considered as a basis for other more complicated cases, in order to obtain an convergence analysis without introducing further errors.
Unveiling the rise of non‐native fishes in eastern alpine mountain rivers: Population trends and implications
Authors: Niedrist G. H. , Hilpold A. , Kranebitter P.
Published: July 2023

Insufficient knowledge about the occurrence and spread of non‐native fish in mountain regions has impeded effective management strategies worldwide. To address this gap, this study analysed over 1300 electrofishing surveys across 650 sites, encompassing a vast 7400 km2 area in the Eastern Alps. The primary objectives were to quantify the occurrence of non‐native species and predict their spread in different river types. Furthermore, the study estimated population sizes and biomass trends for over 150 sites that were surveyed multiple times between 2000 and 2020. Out of the 42 fish species in the study region, 11 were identified as non‐native. Notably, two invasive species of Union concern, Lepomis gibbosus and Pseudorasbora parva, increased their population sizes by 8% and 9% per year, over the past decades, supposedly supported by increasing water temperatures. Among the non‐native species relevant for recreational fishing, Oncorhynchus mykiss populations showed a significant increase of approximately 7% per year, Salmo trutta populations remained stable, and Salvelinus fontinalis populations experienced a notable decline of approximately 7.4% per year. These varying population trends may be attributed to disparities in stocking intensities, with S. fontinalis receiving minimal stocking compared to the other species. This study revealed that non‐native and invasive fish species are a relevant part of fish communities in mountain rivers. Non‐salmonid non‐natives thrive in warm rivers at lower elevations, whereas salmonid non‐natives consolidate in steeper habitats. Because rising temperatures in mountain rivers will accelerate the spread and growth of these species, this first quantification of the current extent will improve fish management strategies in mountainous areas.
Clinical and histological features of patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection in the grey zone
Authors: Gan Qin Yi , Wang Jie Xiao , Qian Feng , Wang Yin Ling , Huang Yan , Zhang Zheng Lan , Jiang Shao Wen , Zhang Chen Xi , Cai Ming Hao , Qian Cong , Fu Hao Shuang , Zhao Shuang , Zhou Hui Juan , Cao Zhu Jun , Xie Qing
Published: July 2023

Chronic HBV infection patients who do not conform to any of the usual immune states are regarded as ‘grey zone’ patients. We aimed to investigate the proportion of chronic HBV infection patients in the grey zone, and evaluate the clinical characteristics and liver pathological changes in grey zone patients. Clinical data of 1391 treatment‐naive chronic HBV infection patients with liver biopsy were collected. Natural history of HBV infection was determined based on European Association for the Study of the Liver (EASL) 2017, American Association for the Study of Liver Diseases (AASLD) 2018 and Chinese 2019 guidelines for the prevention and treatment of chronic HBV infection. Significant liver histological changes and associated risk factors of normal ALT grey zone patients were analysed. According to EASL, AASLD and Chinese criteria, there were 50.0%, 28% and 37.4% chronic HBV infection patients in the grey zone. Among the 353 grey zone patients with normal ALT, 72.4% had significant liver histological changes. ALT (optimal cut‐off value 25 IU/L) and HBV DNA (optimal cut‐off value 18,000 IU/mL) were independent risk factors of significant liver histological abnormalities. In conclusion, a substantial proportion of grey zone patients with normal ALT have significant liver histological changes that can be predicted by levels of serum ALT and HBV DNA. These results provide guidance of antiviral treatment in grey zone patients.
Serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D, vitamin D receptor, and vitamin D binding protein concentrations in dogs with acute pancreatitis compared to healthy control dogs
Authors: Lee Dohee , Koo Yoonhoi , Chae Yeon , Choi Yeongeun , Yun Taesik , Kang Byeong‐Teck , Yang Mhan‐Pyo , Kim Hakhyun
Published: July 2023

Background

Previous studies have documented vitamin D imbalance in dogs with acute pancreatitis (AP), but no studies have investigated serum vitamin D receptor (VDR) and vitamin D‐binding protein (VDBP) concentrations.

Objectives

Compare serum 25‐hydroxyvitamin D (25[OH]D), VDR, and VDBP concentrations in healthy dogs and dogs with AP and identify correlations between these concentrations with ionized calcium, C‐reactive protein (CRP), and canine‐specific pancreatic lipase (Spec cPL) concentrations.

Animals

Twenty‐two dogs with AP and 20 healthy control dogs.

Methods

Prospective cross‐sectional study. Serum 25(OH)D concentrations were measured using a chemiluminescence immunoassay, and VDR and VDBP concentrations were measured using a ELISA kit designed for dogs.

Results

Serum concentrations of 25(OH)D were lower in dogs with AP (mean ± SD, 66.1 ± 39.2 ng/mL) than in controls (96.8 ± 30.4 ng/mL;P = .01), and VDR concentrations were lower in dogs with AP (5.3 ± 3.5 ng/mL) than in controls (7.4 ± 2.5 ng/mL;P = .03). No difference was observed in serum VDBP concentrations between the groups. Serum VDR concentrations differed between survivors (median [interquartile range] = 6.6 [4.3‐8.2] ng/mL) and nonsurvivors (2.7 [0.5‐3.5] ng/mL;P = .01). Negative correlations were observed among serum VDR, CRP (rs = −0.55), and Spec cPL (rs = −0.47) concentrations in dogs with AP.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Dogs with AP had lower serum 25(OH)D and VDR concentrations than controls. Additionally, our study suggests a potential role of VDR expression in the inflammatory process of AP in dogs.
Impact of anesthetics on pyloric characteristics measured using the EndoFLIP® system in patients with gastroparesis
Authors: Desprez Charlotte , Jacques Jérémie , Clavier Thomas , Wallenhorst Timothée , Leroi Anne Marie , Gourcerol Guillaume
Published: July 2023

Background

Pyloric distensibility has been reported as a predictive measure in gastroparesis. Measures can be obtained either during endoscopy under anesthesia or in unsedated patients. However, the impact of anesthetic drugs on the results of pyloric characteristics remains unknown. The objective of the present study was to determine the impact of anesthetics on pyloric characteristics measured using EndoFLIP® in patients with gastroparesis.

Methods

Consecutive patients with gastroparesis from three French tertiary centers were retrospectively analyzed. Patients with a previous history of pyloric intervention were not considered for analysis. Medical records were reviewed for the potential use of anesthetic drugs during EndoFLIP® measurement.

Key Results

One hundred twenty‐five patients were included in the present study [median age: 55.0 years (43.0–66.0)]. Thirty‐four patients (27.2%) had pyloric assessment without general anesthesia and 91 patients (72.8%) with general anesthesia. Pyloric pressure at 40 mL of distension was higher in patients with general anesthesia in comparison with patients without general anesthesia [18.7 (13.0–25.6) mmHg vs. 15.4 (11.9–20.7) mmHg; p = 0.044)]. In multivariate analysis, suxamethonium chloride administration was associated with decreased pyloric distensibility (OR: 3.9; 95% CI: 1.3–11.4; p = 0.013) while ephedrine was rather associated with increased pyloric distensibility (OR: 0.3; 95% CI: 0.1–0.9; p = 0.036).

Conclusions and Inferences

This study is the first to have found an impact of general anesthesia on pyloric measurement using the EndoFLIP®. Therefore, further studies are needed to confirm these findings, if possible, prospective studies.
Automated behavioral scoring: Do we even need humans?
Authors: Kenkel Will
Published: July 2023

The development of automated behavior scoring technology has been a tremendous boon to the study of social behavior. However, completely outsourcing behavioral analysis to a computer runs the risk of overlooking important nuances, and researchers risk distancing themselves from their very object of study. Here, I make the case that while automating analysis has been valuable, and overautomating analysis is risky, more effort should be spent automating the collection of behavioral data. Continuous automated behavioral observations conducted in situ have the promise to reduce confounding elements of social behavior research, such as handling stress, novel environments, one‐time “snapshot” measures, and experimenter presence. Now that we have the capability to automatically process behavioral observations thanks to machine vision and machine learning, we would do well to leverage the same open‐source ethos to increase the throughput of behavioral observation and collection. Fortunately, several such platforms have recently been developed. Repeated testing in the home environment will produce higher qualities and quantities of data, bringing us closer to realizing the ethological goals of studying animal behavior in a naturalistic context.
A finite element analysis of stress distribution with various directions of intermaxillary fixation using orthodontic mini‐implants and elastics following mandibular advancement with a bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy
Authors: Lee Mi‐Young , Park Jae Hyun , Park Sung‐Jin , Chang Na‐Young , Chae Jong‐Moon
Published: July 2023

Objective

This finite element analysis (FEA) aimed to assess the stress distribution in the mandible and fixation system with various directions of the intermaxillary fixation (IMF) using mini‐implants (MIs) and elastics following mandibular advancement with a bilateral sagittal split ramus osteotomy (BSSRO).

Materials and Methods

A total of nine mandibular advancement models were set according to the position of the MIs (1.6 mm in diameter, 8 mm in length) and direction of the IMF elastics (1/4 inch, 5 oz). Major and minor principal stresses in the cortical and cancellous bones, von Mises stresses in the fixation system (miniplate and monocortical screws), and bending angles of the miniplate were analysed.

Results

Compressive and tensile stress distributions in the mandible and von Mises stress distributions in the fixation system were greater in models with a Class III IMF elastic direction and a higher IMF elastic force than in models with a Class II IMF elastic direction and a lower IMF elastic force. The bending angle of the miniplate was negligible.

Conclusions

Stress distributions in the bone and fixation system varied depending on the direction, amount of force, and position of IMF elastics and MIs. Conclusively, IMF elastics in the Class II direction with minimal load in the area close to the osteotomy site should be recommended.
Combined abutment screw and implant platform fracture of screw‐retained bridge
Authors: Bapat Ranjeet , Chaubal Tanay V. , Patil Pravinkumar
Published: July 2023

Dental implant failure can be due to biological or technical problems. The incidence of implant body fracture is rare with less than 1.5% of the reported cases. The implant body fracture can be due to implant design, manufacturing defect, non‐passive fit of the prosthetic framework, and physiologic and/or biomechanical overload. We report a rare event of combined fracture of abutment screws and the neck of implant fixtures of two implants restored with fixed bridge in mandibular left first and second molar region. The dilemma of identifying this situation with stepwise clinical events is described in detail. The implant platform fracture was diagnosed with the help of cone beam computed tomography in addition to the clinical examination. The severe mesial prosthetic cantilever and severe lingual inclination of the implants were found to be the possible causative factors. Both the implants were removed with the help of trephine burs, and patient was recalled after 3 months for re‐evaluation.
Preservational modes of some ichthyosaur soft tissues (Reptilia, Ichthyopterygia) from the Jurassic Posidonia Shale of Germany
Authors: De La Garza Randolph G. , Sjövall Peter , Hauff Rolf , Lindgren Johan
Published: July 2023

Konservat‐Lagerstätten, such as the Toarcian (Early Jurassic) Posidonia Shale of southwestern Germany, are renowned for their spectacular fossils. Ichthyosaur skeletons recovered from this formation are frequently associated with soft tissues; however, the preserved material ranges from three‐dimensional, predominantly phosphatized structures to dark films of mainly organic matter. We examined soft‐tissue residues obtained from two ichthyosaur specimens using an integrated ultrastructural and geochemical approach. Our analyses revealed that the superficially‐looking ‘films’ in fact comprise sections of densely aggregated melanosome (pigment) organelles sandwiched between phosphatized layers containing fibrous microstructures. We interpret this distinct layering as representing condensed and incompletely degraded integument from both sides of the animal. When compared against previously documented ichthyosaur fossils, it becomes readily apparent that a range of preservational modes exists between presumed ‘phosphatic’ and ‘carbonized’ soft‐tissue remains. Some specimens show high structural fidelity (e.g. distinct integumentary layering), while others, including the fossils examined in this study, retain few original anatomical details. This diversity of soft‐tissue preservational modes among Posidonia Shale ichthyosaurs offers a unique opportunity to examine different biostratinomic, taphonomic and diagenetic variables that potentially could affect the process of fossilization. It is likely that soft‐tissue preservation in the Posidonia Shale was regulated by a multitude of factors, including decay efficiency and speed of phosphatic mineral nucleation; these in turn were governed by a seafloor with sustained microbial mat activity fuelled by high organic matter input and seasonally fluctuating oxygen levels.
Alopecia areata and occurrence of vitiligo and hypothyroidism in autoimmune polyendocrinopathy‐candidiasis‐ectodermal dystrophy patients
Authors: Englander Hanna , Ferré Elise M. N. , Schmitt Monica M. , Lionakis Michail S. , Castelo‐Soccio Leslie
Published: July 2023

Autoimmune polyendocrinopathy‐candidiasis‐ectodermal dystrophy (APECED) is an inherited disorder of immunity which leads to increased risk for mucocutaneous candidiasis and multiorgan autoimmune disease. While alopecia areata (AA) has been described in some patients with APECED, the extent and timing of AA is not well established and extent and timing of concomitant vitiligo and hypothyroidism has not been described. We evaluated an APECED cohort followed at the National Institutes of Health for the timing of development of associated diseases. We found AA occurred earlier in those with APECED than in the general population, was rarely the first sign of APECED, and the timing of AA onset did correlate with the timing of onset of vitiligo or hypothyroidism which also occurred at high rates and early age.
Gender disparities in isotretinoin prescribing patterns for pediatric patients before and during practice changes introduced by the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Tan Alice J. , Xia Joyce , Herringshaw Emilee , Mayur Omkar , Iqbal Arshia , Cucka Bethany , Biglione Bianca , Locascio Joseph J. , Kroshinsky Daniela
Published: July 2023

Isotretinoin is a systemic therapy approved for acne and has historically required lab monitoring in addition to adherence to the iPLEDGE Risk Evaluation and Mitigation Strategy (REMS) given the medication's teratogenic effects. The COVID‐19 pandemic resulted in the expansion of telemedicine, acceptance of remote pregnancy tests, and relaxation of lab monitoring practices. A retrospective review of 142 pediatric patients was conducted, and multivariate linear regression was performed to examine differences in prescribing patterns pre‐COVID and during COVID. Backward elimination identified gender and the interaction between acne severity and number of systemic treatments tried before isotretinoin as significant factors associated with increased number of visits to isotretinoin initiation, with females requiring more visits before starting isotretinoin at every acne severity level and even after accounting for systemic treatments previously tried. While the changes catalyzed by the pandemic may have improved visit‐related burdens for patients and caregivers, female patients with acne continue to be delayed in receiving isotretinoin even when adjusting for acne severity and systemic treatments trialed, underscoring persistent gender disparities in prescribing practices for isotretinoin.