bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Using Interdisciplinary Approach in Business English Courses for China's English Majors
Authors: Xie Qing
Published: September 2024

This study reports an empirical case study about using interdisciplinary approach in business English courses with 41 English majors in the Chinese university context. The methodologies are two‐stage surveys, teacher reflection and participant observation. The results show that participants most preferred using specialist vocabulary and cross‐cultural business communication as learning activities in using interdisciplinary approach. The challenges and difficulties in interdisciplinary learning included lack of professional vocabulary, business or interdisciplinary knowledge, business thinking skills and inadequate language skills. A majority of the participants perceived the interdisciplinary approach as effective, as they had improvements in business language, knowledge, communication and English ability. For improving and refining the interdisciplinary approach, participants suggested more practical and detailed business knowledge, practice‐based activities, oral simulation and role‐play activities, more detailed guidance and feedback in the writing tasks, more business cases with interesting videos, increasing Chinese native language explanation and producing a business English language corpus.
Quantifying hubness to predict surgical outcomes in epilepsy: Assessing resection‐hub alignment in interictal intracranial EEG networks
Authors: Gong Ruxue , Roth Rebecca W. , Hull Kaitlyn , Rashid Haris , Vandergrift William A. , Parashos Alexandra , Sinha Nishant , Davis Kathryn A. , Bonilha Leonardo , Gleichgerrcht Ezequiel
Published: September 2024

Objective

Intracranial EEG can identify epilepsy‐related networks in patients with focal epilepsy; however, the association between network organization and post‐surgical seizure outcomes remains unclear. Hubness serves as a critical metric to assess network organization by identifying brain regions that are highly influential to other regions. In this study, we tested the hypothesis that favorable post‐operative seizure outcomes are associated with the surgical removal of interictal network hubs, measured by the novel metric “Resection‐Hub Alignment Degree (RHAD).”

Methods

We analyzed Phase II interictal intracranial EEG from 69 patients with epilepsy who were seizure‐free (n = 45) and non–seizure‐free (n = 24) 1 year post‐operatively. Connectivity matrices were constructed from intracranial EEG recordings using imaginary coherence in various frequency bands, and centrality metrics were applied to identify network hubs. The RHAD metric quantified the congruence between hubs and resected/ablated areas. We used a logistic regression model, incorporating other clinical factors, and evaluated the association of this alignment regarding post‐surgical seizure outcomes.

Results

There was a significant difference in RHAD in fast gamma (80–200 Hz) interictal network between patients with favorable and unfavorable surgical outcomes (p = .025). This finding remained similar across network definitions (i.e., channel‐based or region‐based network) and centrality measurements (Eigenvector, Closeness, and PageRank). The alignment between surgically removed areas and other commonly used clinical quantitative measures (seizure‐onset zone, irritative zone, high‐frequency oscillations zone) did not reveal significant differences in post‐operative outcomes. This finding suggests that the hubness measurement may offer better predictive performance and finer‐grained network analysis. In addition, the RHAD metric showed explanatory validity both alone (area under the curve [AUC] = .66) and in combination with surgical therapy type (resection vs ablation, AUC = .71).

Significance

Our findings underscore the role of network hub surgical removal, measured through the RHAD metric of interictal intracranial EEG high gamma networks, in enhancing our understanding of seizure outcomes in epilepsy surgery.
Noseband type and tightness level affect pressure on the horse's face at trot
Authors: MacKechnie‐Guire Russell , Murray Rachel , Williams Jane M. , Nixon Jane , Fisher Mark , Fisher Diane , Walker Vicki , Clayton Hilary M.
Published: September 2024

Background

Poor noseband adjustment could create high pressures that may risk pain or tissue damage.

Objectives

To quantify sub‐noseband pressures dorsally over the nasal bone and ventrally over the mandibular rami for a Cavesson, Swedish (crank), Drop and Flash noseband at five tightness levels (2.0 to 0.0 finger equivalents).

Study design

In vivo experiments.

Methods

Eight high‐level dressage horses were ridden at the trot in a straight line by their usual riders. Two small pressure mats, attached to the noseband over the nasal bone and the mandibular rami, collected force (N) and pressure (kPa) data from four noseband types (Cavesson/Swedish/Flash/Drop) each adjusted to five tightness levels (2.0/1.5/1.0/0.5/0.0 finger equivalents) based on the use of a taper gauge. Noseband tightness and types were compared using Friedman's analyses with post hoc Wilcoxon tests (p ≤ 0.01).

Results

Pressures (median and [25th and 75th percentiles]) and forces increased with tightness for all noseband types with higher mean pressures consistently recorded on the mandibles (Cavesson: 9.1 [5.0, 12.5] kPa, Swedish: 10.5 [6.3, 14.9] kPa, Flash: 8.0 [3.6, 15.2] kPa) than the nasal bones (Cavesson: 2.8 [1.1, 4.7] kPa, Swedish: 4.3 [3.1, 7.4] kPa, Flash: 4.9 [3.0, 7.3] kPa, p ≤ 0.002). None of the measured nasal pressures or forces differed significantly between tightness levels of 2.0 (1.6 [0.6, 3.6] kPa) and 1.5 fingers (2.9 [1.3, 4.1] kPa), but these values significantly increased from 1.0 (3.1 [1.5, 4.9] kPa), 0.5 (4.2 [2.3, 6.2] kPa), and 0.0 finger tightness (6.4 [3.8, 10.3] kPa) for most variables (p ≤ 0.004). No differences were found in mean/maximal nasal and mandibular pressures when fitted with a Cavesson or Swedish noseband.

Main limitations

Behavioural and physiological parameters were not measured.

Conclusions

Nasal and mandibular pressures increased with noseband tightness, with 1.0 finger laxity or less associated with significantly and incrementally higher pressures than 1.5 or 2.0 finger tightness.
Identification of dietary factors that impact the gut microbiota associated with vitiligo: A Mendelian randomization study and meta‐analysis
Authors: Zhang Keyi , Jiang Ling , Fu Chuhan , Huang Jiangfeng , Wen Yaqing , Zhou Shu , Huang Jinhua , Chen Jing , Zeng Qinghai
Published: September 2024

Previous observational studies have suggested that gut microbiota might be associated with vitiligo. However, owing to the limitations in observational studies of reverse causality and confounders, it remains unclear that whether and how the causal relationships exist. The results suggested that pylum.Bacteroidetes, family.BacteroidalesS24.7, genus.LachnospiraceaeND3007, genus.Marvinbryantia are protective factors for vitiligo. Conversely, family.Lachnospiraceae, order.Burkholderiales, genus.Adlercreutzia, genus.Catenibacterium and genus.Lachnospira are risk factors for vitiligo. In addition, the causative connection between dietary factors and the gut microbiota associated with vitiligo was also investigated. The results revealed that ‘alcohol intake versus 10 years pervious’ results in a reduction in the abundance of genus.Lachnospiraceae ND3007 and family.BacteroidalesS24.7, bread intake leads to a reduction of genus.Marvinbryantia, ‘average weekly red wine intake’ is linked to a decrease in the abundance of order.Burkholderiales, tea intake is associated with an augmentation in the abundance of genus.Catenibacterium, salad/raw vegetable intake elevates the abundance of order.Burkholderiales. In summary, this Mendelian randomization study substantiates potential causal effects of gut microbiota on vitiligo. Modulating the gut microbiota through regulating dietary composition may be a novel strategy for preventing vitiligo.
Biodistribution of iron oxide tattoo pigment: An experimental murine study
Authors: Alsing Kasper Køhler , Johannesen Helle Hjorth , Hansen Rasmus Hvass , Mårtensson Nina Løth , Persson Daniel Pergament , Qvortrup Klaus , Wulf Hans Christian , Lerche Catharina Margrethe
Published: September 2024

Tattoo pigment is expected to migrate beyond the skin to regional lymph nodes and the liver. Modern tattoo ink commonly contains metals that may pose a clinical problem during MRI examinations. This study aimed to investigate the biodistribution of iron oxide pigment to internal organs in mice. Moreover, when exposed to a static magnetic field, we studied whether any reactions followed in the tattooed skin. Twenty‐seven hairless C3.Cg‐Hrhr/TifBomTac mice were included; 20 were tattooed with iron oxide ink in a rectangular 3 cm2 pattern; seven were controls. Ten of the tattooed mice were exposed to a 3 T MRI scanner's static magnetic field. Following euthanasia, evaluations of dissected organs involved MRI T2*‐mapping, light microscopy (LM) and metal analysis. T2*‐mapping measures the relaxation times of hydrogen nuclei in water and fat, which may be affected by neighbouring ferrimagnetic particles, thus enabling the detection of iron oxide particles in organs. Elemental analysis detected a significant level of metals in the tattooed skin compared to controls, but no skin reactions occurred when exposed to a 3 T static magnetic field. No disparity was observed in the liver samples with metal analysis. T2* mapping found no significant difference between the two groups. Only minute clusters of pigment particles were observed in the liver by LM. Our results demonstrate a minimal systemic distribution of the iron oxide pigments to the liver, whereas the kidney and brain were unaffected. The static magnetic field did not trigger skin reactions in magnetic tattoos but may induce image artefacts during MRI.
What's in a name: the multifaceted function of DNA‐ and RNA‐binding proteins in T cell responses
Authors: Bresser Kaspar , Popović Branka , Wolkers Monika C.
Published: September 2024

Cellular differentiation allows cells to transition between different functional states and adapt to various environmental cues. The diversity and plasticity of this process is beautifully exemplified by T cells responding to pathogens, which undergo highly specialized differentiation tailored to the ongoing infection. Such antigen‐induced T cell differentiation is regulated at the transcriptional level by DNA‐binding proteins and at the post‐transcriptional level by RNA‐binding proteins. Although traditionally defined as separate protein classes, a growing body of evidence indicates an overlap between these two groups of proteins, collectively coined DNA/RNA‐binding proteins (DRBPs). In this review, we describe how DRBPs might bind both DNA and RNA, discuss the putative functional relevance of this dual binding, and provide an exploratory analysis into characteristics that are associated with DRBPs. To exemplify the significance of DRBPs in T cell biology, we detail the activity of several established and putative DRBPs during the T cell response. Finally, we highlight several methodologies that allow untangling of the distinct functionalities of DRBPs at the DNA and RNA level, including key considerations to take into account when applying such methods.
Neural control of tumor immunity
Authors: Kizil Burak , De Virgiliis Francesco , Scheiermann Christoph
Published: September 2024

Communication between the nervous system and the immune system has evolved to optimally respond to potentially dangerous stimuli both from within and outside the body. Tumors pose a severe threat to an organism and current therapies are insufficient for tumor regression in the majority of cases. Studies show that tumors are innervated by peripheral nerves from the sensory, parasympathetic and sympathetic nervous systems. Interactions between cancer cells, nerves and immune cells regulate overall tumor progression. Clinical studies have indicated the potential of targeting the peripheral nervous system for promoting anti‐tumor immune responses. This view point provides an opinion on the current evidence and therapeutic potential of manipulating neuro‐immune communications in cancer.
Prediction of hepatocellular carcinoma in patients with Fontan‐associated liver disease using gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid magnetic resonance imaging
Authors: Yamamoto Atsushi , Nagao Michinobu , Inoue Akihiro , Nakao Risako , Sakai Reiko , Nishina Yu , Morita Satoru , Sakai Akiko , Kogiso Tomomi , Kaneko Koichiro , Tokushige Katsutoshi , Inai Kei , Sakai Shuji , Yamaguchi Junichi
Published: September 2024

Aim

The unique feature of Fontan circulation is elevated central venous pressure, which causes Fontan‐associated liver disease (FALD). FALD is associated with a high incidence of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Performing biopsies in patients with FALD is difficult as a result of warfarinization; gadolinium ethoxybenzyl diethylenetriamine pentaacetic acid (Gd‐EOB‐DTPA)‐enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a noninvasive examination, is useful for characterizing liver disease and detecting HCC. However, few studies have reported the detailed features of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA MRI, and the association between these findings and prognosis. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the utility of Gd‐EOB‐DTPA MRI to predict HCC development in patients with FALD.

Methods

This study enrolled 44 patients with FALD (mean age 25 years) who underwent Gd‐EOB‐DTPA MRI. The hepatobiliary phase images were scored semiqualitatively, and the patients were classified into the mild (0–1 point) or severe group (≥2 points). The endpoint was HCC, and event‐free survival was analyzed using Kaplan–Meier and log‐rank tests.

Results

The severe group included 19 patients. During a mean follow‐up of 58 months, HCC developed in six patients. Kaplan–Meier analysis revealed that patients in the severe group had a significantly poorer prognosis than those in the mild group (p = 0.0053). The Fibrosis‐4 index and liver‐to‐spleen ratio of patients with HCC were moderate.

Conclusions

Gd‐EOB‐DTPA MRI can be used to classify disease severity and predict the prognosis of patients with FALD.
Effects of alternative natural silicates on the kinetics of batch‐to‐melt conversion for E‐Glass fiber
Authors: Li Hong , Demirok Gülin , Ibarra‐Munoz Perla , Zhang Yingcheng , Sökmen Ilkay , Arslan Banu , Jose Ann , Goel Ashutosh
Published: September 2024

For the fiberglass industry making E‐Glass fiber products predominantly, reduction in glass batch melting energy can be achieved by using alternative raw materials that improve the kinetics of the batch‐to‐melt (BtM) conversion process. The present study evaluates the effects of the following five types of natural silicate minerals: kaolin (comprising low [<5 wt%] and high [>50 wt%] “free” quartz), pyrophyllite, anorthosite, and wollastonite, on the BtM conversion process using a reference commercial E‐Glass composition. The study used isothermal heat treatment of individual silicate minerals and batch samples containing them, infrared spectroscopy, powder x‐ray diffraction, and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) to characterize the stages of the BtM conversion process in detail. Based on the results of this study, a simplified reaction scheme or mechanism is proposed to account for the effect of batch chemistry on the BtM kinetics, namely, “free SiO2” + “free CaO” → CaSiO3 controls the kinetics of the batch melting. Relative to the E‐Glass control batch made using kaolin, sand, and limestone, the DSC tests showed the benefits of using pyrophyllite (replacing kaolin and sand), anorthosite (replacing kaolin and some limestone), and wollastonite (replacing limestone) in lowering the BtM conversion energy (from room temperature [RT] to 1200°C) between 20% and 50%.
The future is bright: artificial intelligence for trainee medical officers in Australia and New Zealand
Authors: Kovoor Joshua G. , Smallbone Harry , Jenkins Alexander , Stretton Brandon , Santhosh Sanjana , Jacobsen Jonathan H. W. , Gupta Aashray K. , Zaka Ammar , Nann Silas D. , Jiang Melinda , Luo Yuchen , Withers Caitlyn , Ataie Sara , Nematzadeh Nasim , Warren Leigh R. , Marshall‐Webb Matthew , Chan WengOnn , McNeil Keith , Gluck Samuel , Turner Richard , Tan Melanie , South Tobin , Gilbert Toby , Hopkins Ashley M. , Vanlint Andrew S. , Sweetman Gregory M. , Bates Timothy R. , Hansra Amandeep , Bacchi Stephen
Published: September 2024

Given their frontline role in Australia and Aotearoa New Zealand (ANZ) healthcare, trainee medical officers (TMOs) will play a crucial role in the development and use of artificial intelligence (AI) for clinical care, ongoing medical education and research. As ‘digital natives’, particularly those with technical expertise in AI, TMOs should also be leaders in informing the safe uptake and governance of AI within ANZ healthcare as they have a practical understanding of its associated risks and benefits. However, this is only possible if a culture of broad collaboration is instilled while the use of AI in ANZ is still in its initial phase.
Expression of RAG and secondary gene rearrangement of BCR in mature peripheral B lymphocytes in Takayasu arteritis
Authors: Wang Zhenni , Jing Zongxu , Luo Xiaoyun
Published: September 2024

To evaluate the expression of recombinant activating gene (RAG) and B cell receptor (BCR) gene rearrangements in mature peripheral B lymphocytes in Takayasu arteritis (TA) to explore the possible mechanism of humoral immune response in TA. Ten patients with TA and 10 age‐ and sex‐matched healthy volunteers (control group) from Beijing Shijitan Hospital, Capital Medical University and Peking Union Medical College Hospital, between 2022 and 2023, were included in this study. The mRNA of the RAG was measured using real‐time quantitative PCR (RT‐PCR). Western blotting was used to detect RAG protein expression levels. NGS technology was used to detect BCR gene rearrangement. The mRNA expression level of RAG1 and RAG2 in peripheral mature B lymphocytes in patients with TA was significantly higher than in the control group (RAG1 5.56 ± 1.71 vs. 1.94 ± 0.86, p < 0.05; RAG2 5.26 ± 1.59 vs. 1.65 ± 0.64, p < 0.05), respectively. The protein expression level of the RAG1 and the RAG2 in peripheral mature B lymphocytes in patients with TA was significantly higher than in the healthy control group (RAG1 4.33 ± 1.58 vs. 1.52 ± 0.59, p < 0.001; RAG2 4.67 ± 1.88 vs. 1.59 ± 0.56, p < 0.001). The number of peripheral B lymphocyte BCR clonotypes in the group of patients with TA was significantly higher than in the normal control group (1574 ± 317.7 vs. 801.3 ± 202.1, p < 0.05). The abundance of IGHV clones in patients with TA was higher than in the normal control group (31.185% vs. 13.449%), which was positively correlated with the expression levels of RAG1 and RAG2 (correlation coefficient r = 1.00, p < 0.001), respectively. High expression of the RAG gene coexists with secondary BCR gene rearrangement in mature peripheral B lymphocytes in patients with TA, providing important clues regarding the potential humoral response in TA; however, further studies with larger samples are needed.
N Stress Alleviation in Crops—A System Approach Analysing Residual N From Winter Crops in a Late‐Maize‐Wheat Sequence
Authors: Biassoni M. M. , Agosti M. B. , Kehoe E. , Enrico J. M. , Gutiérrez Boem F. H. , Salvagiotti F.
Published: September 2024

Nitrogen (N) is crucial for crop production. Crop sequences with different legume participation affect N availability and therefore N fertiliser management. The study aimed to assess the inclusion of winter crops (WC) with different amounts of residues and different C:N ratios on the following: (i) the response to N fertilisation in the following late‐maize (Zea mays L.), and to carry that comparison into a subsequent wheat crop (Triticum aestivum L.), and (ii) identify soil N indicators associated with these responses. Two field experiments (E1 and E2) were conducted in the Argentinean Pampas during two growing seasons to evaluate a WC/late‐maize‐wheat sequence under no‐tillage. In each experiment, late‐maize was sown after a bare‐fallow and three WC: wheat, vetch (Vicia villosa L.) and field pea (Pisum sativum L.), where five rates of N fertilisation were evaluated. An area of late‐maize that was not fertilised with N within each previous WC was used to evaluate the response to N fertilisation in the subsequent wheat crop. Indigenous N was estimated by using N uptake in the non‐N‐fertilised treatments. Soil N indicators and C:N ratio of WC residues were evaluated as indicators of response to N fertilisation in both crops. Significant responses to N fertilisation in grain yield and N uptake were observed in late‐maize when bare‐fallow and wheat were the previous treatments in both experiments. In contrast, vetch and field pea supplied 32 and 40 kg N ha−1 in E1 and E2, respectively, and showed no response to N fertilisation, satisfying the N required by late‐maize. However, this supply was not enough to sustain the N demand of the subsequent wheat, where the response to N addition ranged from 36% to 74% when vetch and wheat were the previous WC, respectively. Only soil inorganic N indicators were associated with indigenous N supply. Moreover, the apparent net WC effect was linked to late‐maize (r2 = 0.91) and subsequent wheat (r2 = 0.67) grain yield response, which was also related to the C:N ratio of the WC residues in late‐maize and the subsequent wheat (r2 = 0.78), suggesting that mineralisation occurs when C:N ratio is below 18. Consequently, in future studies the C:N ratio of the WC residues can be included in N fertilisation recommendation schemes when late‐maize is sown as a double crop in more intensified crop sequences.
Supportive interventions for preparation for future care of community‐dwelling older adults: A scoping review
Authors: Qiqi Ni , Li Wang , Weijing Sui , Yiyu Zhuang
Published: September 2024

Aim

To identify and summarize the content and effectiveness of existing supportive interventions for preparation for future care of community‐dwelling older adults.

Design

A scoping review.

Data Sources

PubMed, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, Wanfang, China National Knowledge Infrastructure and Chinese medical journal databases were used to identify studies alongside a search for grey literature, from inception to December 1, 2023.

Results

In total, 530 records were retrieved. Ten studies met the inclusion criteria, with eight interventions. Two categories of interventions were highlighted: psycho‐educational group and web‐based decision support. The components included the introduction of preparation for future care, discussing resources, exploration of care preferences and identifying care planning. Outcomes were grouped into four: awareness and attitude towards preparation for future care, participation in preparation for future care, changes in mental health and well‐being and feasibility and acceptability of interventions.

Conclusion

Few studies have investigated interventions that promote preparation for future care in community‐dwelling older adults. These interventions, deemed acceptable and feasible, have shown promising results in improving awareness and attitude, and participation in future care preparation. Nevertheless, the impact on mental health appeared mixed.

Implications for the Profession and Patient Care

Supportive interventions should be developed with feasibility and acceptability to improve awareness and participation in future care preparation for community‐dwelling older adults.

Impact

This review lays a foundation for the pre‐allocating of care resources, improving the quality of provided care and ultimately promoting healthy ageing.

Reporting Method

Reporting was guided by Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analysis extension for Scoping Reviews.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.

Protocol Registration

A protocol was registered on the Open Science Framework (https://osf.io/ze8wf).
Cultural Intelligence and Migration Intentions Among Nursing and Midwifery Students in Southeastern Region of Turkey: A Correlational Study
Authors: Berşe Soner , Tosun Betül , Dirgar Ezgi , Yava Ayla
Published: September 2024

Aim

This study explores the relationship between cultural intelligence and attitudes towards the intention to migrate among nursing and midwifery students.

Methods

Using a correlational design, data were collected from 804 students through the Student Descriptive Form, The Attitude Scale for Brain Drain in Nursing Students and the Cultural Intelligence Scale. The analysis was conducted using IBM SPSS Statistics and AMOS, employing structural equation modelling and analysis of variance.

Results

The majority of participants were female (84.8%) and Turkish citizens (89.1%). The findings showed that both cultural intelligence levels and attitudes towards brain drain were above average. A positive correlation was identified between cultural intelligence and attitudes towards the intention to migrate.

Conclusion

Enhancing cultural intelligence through intercultural education, overseas experiences and multilingual proficiency is essential. The study underscores the critical need for policy reforms aimed at improving working conditions in low‐income countries and addressing the challenges posed by the intention to migrate.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Incorporating cultural intelligence training into nursing and midwifery curricula is essential for preparing students to work in multicultural healthcare settings. Educational reforms are needed to equip future healthcare professionals with the skills required for diverse patient care. Additionally, policy interventions aimed at improving working conditions and offering better incentives in low‐income regions are critical to mitigating brain drain by addressing the root causes of migration among skilled healthcare workers.

Impact

The study underscores the role of cultural intelligence in shaping the migration intentions of nursing and midwifery students. It highlights how higher levels of cultural intelligence correlate with more positive attitudes towards migration, suggesting that culturally adept healthcare professionals may be more inclined to seek international opportunities.

Reporting Method

This study adhered to the STROBE guidelines for reporting observational studies.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Does visual or mechanosensory disruption influence risk assessment in coral reef fishes: a preliminary study
Authors: Bowers Riley , Burgos Nicholas , Meshanko Ryan , Thaker Sapna , Yan Allison , O'Fallon Sean , Blumstein Daniel T.
Published: September 2024

Interpreting and responding to environmental cues from different modalities has survival value. In fish, the role of multimodal perception has been studied in regard to both foraging and risk assessment, with modalities including vision, olfaction, and mechanoreception via lateral lines. We studied reef fish boldness by placing novel objects that obstructed vision, lateral line use, or both into a coral reef environment with native algal samples inside, and then quantifying exploration as a function of obstruction type and as a function of functional diet groups (herbivores, omnivores, carnivores). Fish were more neophobic with more sensory obstructions, displaying longer latencies to visitation across all novel objects. Fish were also less likely to pass by objects that blocked multiple perceptual modalities. Across diets, there is early evidence that different functional groups respond differently to novelty. However, this conclusion requires further study. Overall, our findings provide key insights into perceptual ecology. In turn, this knowledge can be applied to understanding the effects of novel anthropogenic modifications in the marine environment. Such modifications may include positive activities like the construction of substrates to restore coral reefs, coral transplantation to restore reefs, as well as the negative consequences of construction and pollution.
Antipsychotics for nursing home residents with dementia: Chemical restraints or essential therapeutic intervention?
Authors: Ouslander Joseph G.
Published: September 2024

See related articles by Shireman et al.
The Effect of Botulinum Toxin Type A in the Autologous Fat Grafting: A Review
Authors: Lo Chihchieh , Cao Lideng , Lin Yuanyou , Wang Hang
Published: September 2024

Background

Autologous fat grafting is a widely used technique in plastic and reconstructive surgery for soft tissue augmentation. Despite its advantages, the primary limitation is the unpredictable retention rate of transplanted fat. Recent studies suggest that botulinum toxin type A (BTX‐A) can enhance fat graft survival by promoting angiogenesis and muscle paralysis.

Aims

This review explores the potential of BTX‐A as an adjuvant in autologous fat grafting, providing insights into its mechanisms, benefits, and the need for further clinical validation.

Patients/Methods

A literature review was conducted using PubMed, Web of Science, MEDLINE, and Embase. Keywords related to BTX‐A, fat grafting, fat graft survival, and angiogenesis were used. Comparative studies reporting histological changes following BTX‐A application in fat grafting were included. Exclusion criteria involved case reports with fewer than three animals, reviews, and letters.

Results

The initial search yielded 108 articles, with seven experimental studies meeting the criteria. These studies demonstrated that BTX‐A enhances fat graft retention by promoting vascularization and adipose‐derived stem cell differentiation. However, these results are mainly based on small animal models.

Conclusions

While BTX‐A shows promise in improving autologous fat grafting outcomes, its efficacy and safety in humans need validation through large‐scale clinical trials. Translating these preclinical findings into human trials is crucial to establish standardized protocols and optimize clinical outcomes. Future research should focus on optimizing dosage and injection sites, conducting long‐term follow‐up studies, and performing multicenter trials to verify the findings.
Impact of a mandibular advancement device on corticomotor plasticity in patients with obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Costa Yuri M. , Hayakawa Hidetoshi , Castrillon Eduardo. E. , Ferreira Dyna Mara A. O. , Iida Takashi , Kothari Mohit , Svensson Peter
Published: September 2024

Background

Neuroplasticity induced by mandibular advancement appliance (MAD) in patients with obstructive sleep apnoea (OSA) is poorly documented.

Objective

This randomised placebo‐controlled crossover mechanistic study assessed the effects of short‐term use of a MAD on corticomotor excitability of the masseter and tongue in patients with OSA.

Methods

Adults (n = 28) with mild or moderate OSA were randomly allocated to sleep with a MAD for 2‐weeks with 40% of the maximal protrusion (MAD active position) and without any jaw protrusion (MAD placebo position). The outcomes were assessed at baseline, and after 2 and 6 weeks, with a 2‐week washout period. The primary outcome was the amplitude of motor evoked potential (MEP) assessed on the right masseter, right side of tongue and right first dorsal interosseous with transcranial magnetic stimulation. Corticomotor map volume of the same muscles was also assessed. Repeated‐measures ANOVAs followed by Tukey test were applied to the data (p < .050).

Results

There was a significant increase in the MEP amplitude of the masseter and tongue following the MAD active position compared with the baseline and MAD placebo (Tukey: p < .001). There were no significant MEP amplitude differences between the baseline and placebo positions (p > .050). Moreover, there was a significant increase in corticomotor map volume for the masseter and tongue muscles following the MAD active position compared with baseline and MAD placebo (Tukey: p < .003).

Conclusion

Excitability of the masseter and tongue motor pathways is, at least transiently, increased in patients with OSA following a short‐term use of MAD. This novel finding of MAD‐induced neuroplasticity in corticomotor pathways may contribute to a further understanding of the mechanisms of oral appliances for treating OSA.
Pain, Function and Quality of Life in Temporomandibular Disorder Patients With Different Disc Positions
Authors: Li Yi‐jun , Han Sophie Lau Rui , Xu Zi‐ang , Cheng Qiao‐yu , Fan Pei‐di , Zheng Yun‐hao , Wang Jun , Xiong Xin
Published: September 2024

Background

Whether pain, jaw function and quality of life are correlated with disc positions is controversial, and similar studies evaluating disc positions by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are very limited.

Objective

This study evaluated the pain, mandibular function and quality of life of the temporomandibular disorders (TMDs) patients with different disc positions according to MRI, and the relationship among them.

Methods

Three hundred and thirty‐five participants were included. Patients completed questionnaires included the Numeric Rating Scale (NRS), Jaw Functional Limitation Scale 8‐item (JFLS‐8), the Generalised Anxiety Disorder 7‐item (GAD‐7), Patient Health Questionnaire 9‐item (PHQ‐9) and Oral Health Impact Profile for TMD (OHIP‐TMD). MRI was conducted to evaluate these diagnoses, resulting in the identification of three distinct categories: normal positioning (NP), disc displacement with reduction (DDwR) and disc displacement without reduction (DDwoR).

Results

Participants had the mean age of 28.55 ± 11.10 years (80.90% women). DDwR and DDwoR had a higher percentage of females compared with NP. Significant differences existed among patients in all questionnaires. The DDwoR group had significantly the highest pain, functional limitation and the worst quality of life. Moreover, they experienced the most difficulties in chewing tough foods, yawning, experiencing pain and psychological discomfort. Moreover, the multivariate regression showed that age, female gender, diagnosis as DDwoR, GAD‐7 and PHQ‐9 were significantly linked to higher functional limitation. Worse quality of life was associated with age, diagnosis as DDwoR, GAD‐7 and PHQ‐9.

Conclusions

Among patients with different disc positions, DDwoR showed the highest pain, functional limitation and the worst quality of life. Also, NP showed a proportion of chronic pain. Physical pain, psychological discomfort and chewing tough food were regarded as the most impaired. Women who experience anxiety and depression tended to have a higher propotion of dysfunction and a lower quality of life.
Long‐Term Prognosis and Influencing Factors of Chinese Adolescents With Temporomandibular Disorder After Physical Therapy
Authors: Jin Lei , Yao Yuan , Fang Zhongyi , Fan Shuai , Cai Bin , Xu Lili , Liu Shasha
Published: September 2024

Background

Physical therapy is the preferred conservative treatment for patients with temporomandibular disorder (TMD). However, few studies have investigated the application of physical therapy in adolescents, especially follow‐up studies on the long‐term prognosis of these patients. This study investigated the short‐term effects and long‐term prognosis of physical therapy in adolescent patients with TMD and the factors influencing long‐term symptoms.

Methods

Information regarding baseline data, specific treatment methods, treatment times and evaluation results was collected retrospectively for adolescent patients with TMD who received physical therapy. Patients were followed up via telephone and online questionnaires, and the influence of age, sex, disease course, mouth opening, pain intensity, oral parafunctional habits and treatment methods on long‐term symptoms was analysed.

Results

Pain intensity, maximum mouth opening and the joint noise score improved significantly in 270/286 patients who received individualised comprehensive physical therapy. TMD‐related symptoms improved with no noticeable impact on daily life in 187/199 patients who were followed up for an extended period (average, 30.71 ± 10.86 months) and were divided into asymptomatic or symptomatic groups according to the persistence of symptoms. Logistic regression analysis revealed that uncorrected oral parafunctional habits and fewer treatments were related to long‐term symptoms.

Conclusion

The long‐term prognosis of adolescent patients with TMD after physical therapy was satisfactory. However, 52.8% of the patients experienced persistent TMD‐related symptoms for an extended period, possibly due to insufficient treatment times and parafunctional habits.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT05781607
Template‐aided and freehand guiding plane preparation for removable partial dentures: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Bai Hefei , Ye Hongqiang , Ma Kenan , Tian Sukun , Chen Hu , Wang Yong , Zhou Yongsheng , Sun Yuchun
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To evaluate the accuracy of guiding plane preparation for removable partial dentures (RPDs) using 3D‐printed templates compared to the freehand method.

Materials and Methods

Twenty partially edentulous patients requiring RPDs were randomly divided into two groups: the template‐aided group (n = 10) and the freehand group (n = 10). Fifty‐six guiding planes were prepared by a single clinician using two different methods. The angle deviation between the prepared guiding plane and the RPD path of placement was measured for both groups. The 3D deviations between the prepared guiding plane and the designed guiding plane were measured for the template‐aided group. Patient satisfaction with the RPD was evaluated 2 weeks post‐RPD wearing.

Results

The angular deviation observed in the template‐aided group (1.77±1.11 degrees) was significantly lower than that (6.29±4.18 degrees) in the freehand group (p < .001). Additionally, the 3D deviation between the prepared guiding plane and the designed guiding plane of the template‐aided group was 106.2±40.9 µm. No significant difference in patient satisfaction scores related to RPD wearing was found between the two groups.

Conclusions

Utilizing the cobalt‐chromium (CoCr) alloy template significantly improved the accuracy of guiding plane preparation in the clinic, irrespective of the site of the abutment tooth.
Using latent variable modelling to identify etiological heterogeneity in preterm delivery
Authors: Betts Kim Steven , Alati Rosa , Baker Peter
Published: September 2024

Aims

To identify a subgroup of mothers at high risk of preterm delivery, defined by empirical classes of multimorbidity and recurrence across three consecutive births.

Methods

The data were extracted from the perinatal data collection (PDC) of all inpatient live births (n = 435 912) occurring in the Australian state of Queensland between January 2009 and December 2015. Within this data, a total of 7714 primiparous mothers delivered three consecutive singleton live births (total births = 23 142), and comprise the sample for all analyses.

Results

The LCA indicated a four‐class solution fit the data best at each time point, including (i) a ‘normative’ or healthy class with little morbidity (including >80% of the sample at each birth); (ii) a preterm, high morbidity class (<2% of the sample); (ii) a delivery morbidity class (4–8% of the sample); and (iii) preterm, low morbidity class (5–6% of the sample). Each group exhibited unique and consistent associations with maternal and pregnancy‐related factors across births. After accounting for these factors, the high morbidity class and preterm, low morbidity class strongly predicted these same classes across consecutive births, and from birth 1 to birth 3 (second‐order transition).

Conclusions

A small but highly morbid class of neonatal deliveries emerged, exhibiting strong continuity across consecutive births (odds ratios >10), independent of a range of maternal and pregnancy‐related factors. This group of women, if subject to further investigation, could provide valuable insight into the aetiology of prematurity and associated morbidity, perhaps providing information to improve birth outcomes among all women.
Characterization of mechanical properties of shale constituent minerals using phase‐identified nanoindentation
Authors: Du Jianting , Yuen Ka‐Veng , Whittle Andrew J. , Hu Liming , Divoux Thibaut , Meegoda Jay N.
Published: September 2024

Characterization of mechanical properties of shale constituent minerals (viz., the mechanical genes of shale) has been challenging but of great significance for engineering applications in shale formations. In this study, a phase‐identified nanoindentation is proposed to decode the mechanical genes of shale using a large nanomechanical dataset. With the consideration of uniform prior probability density functions (PDFs) and Gaussian posterior PDFs, the evidence of the measured dataset generated by the candidate model classes was assessed by applying the expectation–maximization algorithm and solving the Hessian matrix of the likelihood function. In contrast with Bayesian information criterion analysis, which has been widely used in prior studies, the proposed phase‐identified nanoindentation approach is insensitive to the size of the dataset. Here, the identified clusters are well matched with the constituent phases measured by coupling grid nanoindentation and surface physicochemical identification.
Multiple routes to fungicide resistance: Interaction of Cyp51 gene sequences, copy number and expression
Authors: Arnold Corinne J. , (Meyers) Hahn Emily A. , Whetten Rebecca , Chartrain Laetitia , Cheema Jitender , Brown James K. M. , Cowger Christina
Published: September 2024

We examined the molecular basis of triazole resistance in Blumeria graminis f. sp. tritici (wheat mildew, Bgt), a model organism among powdery mildews. Four genetic models for responses to triazole fungicides were identified among US and UK isolates, involving multiple genetic mechanisms. Firstly, only two amino acid substitutions in CYP51B lanosterol demethylase, the target of triazoles, were associated with resistance, Y136F and S509T (homologous to Y137F and S524T in the reference fungus Zymoseptoria tritici). As sequence variation did not explain the wide range of resistance, we also investigated Cyp51B copy number and expression, the latter using both reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR and RNA‐seq. The second model for resistance involved higher copy number and expression in isolates with a resistance allele; thirdly, however, moderate resistance was associated with higher copy number of wild‐type Cyp51B in some US isolates. A fourth mechanism was heteroallelism with multiple alleles of Cyp51B. UK isolates, with significantly higher mean resistance than their US counterparts, had higher mean copy number, a high frequency of the S509T substitution, which was absent from the United States, and in the most resistant isolates, heteroallelism involving both sensitivity residues Y136+S509 and resistance residues F136+T509. Some US isolates were heteroallelic for Y136+S509 and F136+S509, but this was not associated with higher resistance. The obligate biotrophy of Bgt may constrain the tertiary structure and thus the sequence of CYP51B, so other variation that increases resistance may have a selective advantage. We describe a process by which heteroallelism may be adaptive when Bgt is intermittently exposed to triazoles.
Efficacy of Amorolfine in Onychomycosis Treatment: A Mixed‐Effects Models and Multivariate Logistic Regression Analysis
Authors: Du Chichi , Ding Mingming , Zhang Lin , Jiang Guan
Published: September 2024

Background

Onychomycosis (OM) is a common nail infection treated with amorolfine hydrochloride nail lacquer in China. Monitoring drug concentrations and using dermoscopy to evaluate treatment efficacy may provide new insights.

Objective

The study aims to analyse amorolfine concentrations in nails with mild to moderate OM, assess treatment outcomes using dermoscopy and explore factors influencing drug concentrations and efficacy.

Methods

Patients with mild to moderate OM confirmed by fungal microscopy were enrolled. Amorolfine nail lacquer was applied twice weekly for 36 weeks. Monthly nail samples measured amorolfine concentrations using liquid chromatography. Dermoscopy was performed before and after treatment to evaluate responses. Mixed‐effects models and logistic regression analysed factors affecting drug concentrations and outcomes.

Results

Ninety‐seven nails were included. Amorolfine concentrations increased over time, with higher levels in females, fingernails, 2nd–5th digits and superficial white OM (p < 0.05). Age was a risk factor, while drug concentration and OM type were protective for clinical efficacy (p < 0.05). Peak concentration correlated with clinical (r = 0.487, p = 0.000) and mycological (r = 0.433, p = 0.000) responses. Dermoscopic features improved significantly in successful cases (p < 0.05).

Limitations

In the assessment of fungal efficacy, only fungal microscopy was used, and fungal cultures were not performed. The study was limited by a small sample size and the lack of a longer follow‐up to assess relapse.

Conclusion

Amorolfine concentrations vary with patient and nail characteristics, influencing efficacy. Dermoscopy is valuable for monitoring OM treatment.
A comparison of steroid dose with or without local anesthetic in lumbar interlaminar epidural steroid injections
Authors: Chow Robert , Ng Jessica , Wood Melanie , Yanez David , He Zili , Rajput Kanishka
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Epidural steroid injections (ESIs) are commonly used as a treatment for lumbar radiculopathy. Currently, most research on comparative efficacy of various steroids in epidural steroid injections is focused on transforaminal ESIs (TFESIs). Through this study, we aimed to compare various steroid doses with or without local anesthetic in interlaminar ESIs (ILESIs).

Methods

We reviewed charts for all adult patients who received ILESIs identified by CPT code 62323 between January 2017 to April 2021. Baseline demographic data including age, sex, BMI, and smoking status were recorded. NRS pain scores before the injection and percentage of pain relief at 1‐month follow‐up were recorded. We compared percentage of patients reporting pain relief at 1 month follow‐up of low‐dose dexamethasone alone (5 mg), to low‐dose dexamethasone mixed with local anesthetic, and to high‐dose dexamethasone (10 mg) mixed with local anesthetic, specifically for ILESIs.

Results

Data were available for 311 patients. There was no significant difference in pain relief between the 3 groups at 1 month follow‐up. The majority of patients had moderate to significant improvement in pain, supporting the use of ILESIs. Moreover, low‐dose steroid with local anesthetic was found to be as efficacious as high‐dose steroid alone. Although not statistically significant, the addition of local anesthetic to low‐dose or high‐dose steroid increased the percentage of patients reporting moderate to significant pain relief.

Conclusion

ILESIs with non‐particulate steroids provide moderate to significant pain improvement in the short term, with low‐dose steroid mixed with local anesthetic being as efficacious as a high‐dose steroid.