bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LA MODULAZIONE DEI LIVELLI DI GLUTATIONE COME STRATEGIA DI ATTACCO NELLE INTERAZIONI OSPITE-PARASSITA
Authors: Pompella A. , Masi A. , Pennacchio F.
Published: December 2016

Insect studies, dealing with parasitism of aphids, have shown that the disruption of host glutathione (GSH) pool and metabolisms significantly contributes to its physiological regulation and castration. The parasitic wasp Aphidius ervi injects into host aphids a venom containing large amounts of a gamma-glutamyltransferase (Ae-GGT) enzyme, which causes a depletion of GSH primarily involving ovarian tissue. Injected Ae-GGT in fact consumes substrate GSH, which ultimately triggers apoptosis. Studies on virulence factors of microrganisms have documented that the invasion strategies of selected pathogenic bacteria also target host GSH metabolism. Indeed, it has been shown that GGT activity of Helicobacter pylori and H. suis, the agents responsible of peptic ulcer, can exert antiproliferative and pro-apoptotic effects in gastric epithelial cells. By confocal microscopy, H. suis outer membrane vesicles (OMV) − submicroscopic structures 20-50 nm in diameter, budding from the cell surface − were identified as carriers of H. suis GGT, capable of delivering the enzyme to the deeper mucosal layers. In association with such membranous structures, active GGT from H. suis in fact translocates across the epithelial layers and can access lymphocytes residing in the gastric mucosa, resulting in the inhibition of lymphocyte proliferation, i.e., a perturbation of host immunity and a facilitation of bacterial infection. Cellular GSH appears, thus, to represent a conserved target for parasitic (micro)organisms which aim at altering host redox homeostasis to weaken its immune defenses, using GGT as a key-element of a virulence strategy. Taking into account the “parasitic” behavior exhibited by malignant cells spreading across tissues and organs of the patient (the “host”). GGT activity is in fact expressed in a number of malignant tumors, and expression levels often increase along with progression to more invasive phenotypes. Now, active GGT can be released from cells, including cancer cells, in association with submicroscopic vesicles resembling exosomes. The similarity of such structures with GGT-rich OMV particles of H. pylori and H. suis is indeed obvious. GGT activity of cancer cells can affect intracellular redox equilibrium, and produces in addition significant extracellular effects, e.g. on the redox status and ligand binding affinity of cell surface receptors related with cell survival/apoptosis balance. Thus, GGT-rich exosomes shed by cancer cells can produce in host’s surrounding tissues effects comparable to those reported for Ae-GGT or Helicobacter GGT, possibly resulting in facilitation of malignant cells survival and diffusion.
On profinite groups with commutators covered by nilpotent subgroups
Authors: Shumyatsky Pavel
Published: December 2016

The following results about a profinite group

G

are obtained. The commutator subgroup

G’

is finite if and only if

G

is covered by countably many abelian subgroups. The group

G

is finite-by-nilpotent if and only if

G

is covered by countably many nilpotent subgroups. The main result is that the commutator subgroup

G’

is finite-by-nilpotent if and only if the set of all commutators in

G

is covered by countably many nilpotent subgroups.
Construction or Constructing? Some Observations on English Deverbal and Gerundial Nouns
Authors: Ilc Gašper
Published: December 2016

English deverbal and gerundial nouns are traditionally analysed as instances of verbal nominalisations with a hybrid syntactic and semantic nature: while predominantly having nominal properties, they display some of the verbal characteristics as well. Using relevant examples from English corpora (BNC, ukWaC, enTenTen13), the paper examines the similarities and differences between the two types of nominalisations with special focus on their syntactic and semantic properties. The paper discusses deverbal/gerundial nouns in relation to the s.c. gerundial cline, which refers to the gradual process of nominalisation as observed in English. The analysis of examples shows that gerundial nouns are typically associated with the eventive interpretation, and that the structure of the nominal phrase headed by a gerundial noun directly reflects the syntactic properties of the verbal root. Deverbal nouns, on the other hand, are typically associated with the result-object interpretation, and the structure of the nominal phrase headed by a deverbal noun is less dependent on the syntactic properties of the verbal root. Despite these apparent differences, corpus data also reveal that the converse is also true: deverbal nouns can be used as gerundial nouns and vice versa.
The Effects of Verbal and Non-Verbal Features on the Reception of DRTV Commercials
Authors: Komar Smiljana
Published: December 2016

Analyses of consumer response are important for successful advertising as they help advertisers to find new, original and successful ways of persuasion. Successful advertisements have to boost the product’s benefits but they also have to appeal to consumers’ emotions. In TV advertisements, this is done by means of verbal and non-verbal strategies. The paper presents the results of an empirical investigation whose purpose was to examine the viewers’ emotional responses to a DRTV commercial induced by different verbal and non-verbal features, the amount of credibility and persuasiveness of the commercial and its general acceptability. Our findings indicate that (1) an overload of the same verbal and non-verbal information decreases persuasion; and (2) highly marked prosodic delivery is either exaggerated or funny, while the speaker is perceived as annoying.
The Complex Nature of Power and Language: Verbal Strategies in Martin Crimp’s The City
Authors: İnan Dilek , Yakut Ayşe Didem
Published: December 2016

The purpose of the paper is to examine the dynamic relationships between language and power in The City (2008), which was written by the groundbreaking playwright Martin Crimp. In a systematic and intentional way, Crimp’s language resists the established conventional standards and challenges any typical expectations for dramatic discourse. Crimp deconstructs language and dismantles its authorial guidance. He employs stimulating and inventive dialogues through word games and language strategies and devices such as repetitions, interruptions, silences and pauses, denial, concealment, other enhancement, negation, formulation, topic-shift and turn-taking. Crimp exploits language through effective and energetic rhythm, structure and form in order to depict the ethical disasters of the contemporary world. The playwright breaks the traditional dramatic form, replacing it with his unique device where the language does not communicate meaning but acts as a means of articulating power through verbal strategies.
Measurement the “Q” angle through the application of direct method and indirect method
Authors: Vanzeli C. , Reis A. , Pereira A. , Tavares M. , Fazan V.
Published: December 2016

Introduction: The “Q” angle is used to measure global alignment of the kneecap, representing the kneecap normal alignment. The average of 15 degrees in ordinary people is accepted as “Q” angle value, 14 degrees for men and 17 degrees for women. Anatomic changes caused by variants produces converging kneecaps or lateral deviation of the tibial tuberosity, changing the “Q” angle value and causing pathologies. Objective: Measure the “Q” angle of asymptomatic people, comparing obtained results. Materials and Methods: The “Q” angle measurement was taken from 12 subjects (6 males and 6 females), with ages from 18 to 35, at the Physiotherapy Clinic of José do Rosario Vellano College, in Alfenas, MG. Results: After evaluating the 12 subjects following ANOVA test, using p < 0.05, no significant statistic difference could be observed among examiners, gender or right and left limbs, considering both direct and indirect methods. Conclusion: Data obtained in this research allows us suggest that there is no difference between “Q” angle values among genders, direct and indirect methods and lateral symmetry.
Ossification of the superior transverse ligament in a South African scapula: a factor to be considered in the diagnosis of suprascapular nerve entrapment
Authors: Azu O. , Ofusori D. , Naidu E. , Naidu J.
Published: December 2016

Introduction: Ossification of the superior transverse scapular ligament is one of the factors considered in the classification of the suprascapular notch based on shape. Variation in morphology of the superior transverse scapular ligament is always considered a critical factor in the diagnosis of suprascapular nerve entrapment syndrome. Case Report: This study reports the complete ossification of the superior transverse scapular ligament in a South African scapula and a note on its clinical anatomy. Conclusion: This anatomical knowledge is of extreme clinical relevance to surgeons in relation to various syndromes associated with the shoulder region in the South African population.
Abnormities in boy anencephalic newborn in Iran
Authors: Bayat P.
Published: December 2016

Introduction: Anencephaly is one of the most common neural tube defects. Neural tube defects are birth defects that affect the tissue that grows into the spinal cord and brain. Anencephaly occurs early in the development of an unborn baby. It results when the upper part of the neural tube fails to close. Why this happens is not known. Possible causes include environmental toxins and low intake of folic acid during pregnancy. Anencephaly occurs in about 4 out of 10,000 births. The exact number is unknown, because many of these pregnancies result in miscarriage. Having one infant with this condition increases the risk of having another child with neural tube defects. Materials and Methods & Results: We report a case anencephaly fetal and his characters in this study from 11543 women in 18month attending the antenatal clinic (Taleghani gynecology center in Arak city of Iranian center). Conclusion: It is recommended for this fetal disorder, mother ultrasound at from 12 to 20 weeks of pregnancy
Variations in the branching pattern in inferior mesenteric artery: a series of five cases
Authors: Singh R.
Published: December 2016

Introduction: Inferior mesenteric artery arises from abdominal aorta just below the third part of duodenum at the level of L3-L4 vertebra. It supplies left colon and rectosigmoid colon through its branches namely- left colic artery, two-three sigmoid arteries and superior rectal artery. The branching pattern of inferior mesenteric artery is of immense use in colon surgery. Material and Methods: The study was carried out in the department of anatomy by dissecting seven embalmed cadavers. The inferior mesenteric artery and its branches were identified; its vertebral level was analysed. The length and diameter of inferior mesenteric artery were measured by vernier callipers. Results: In first case, bifurcation of inferior mesentric artery into common trunk and main artery then trifitrcation of main artery and bifurcation of common trunk belong to anomalous configuration. In second case, this artery gave a tetrafitrcated common trunk and main artery which continued as superior rectal artery. In third case, the same artery trifurcated into left colic, superior rectal artery and bifurcated common trunk. In fourth case, the artery bifurcated into common trunk further dividing into left colic and sigmoid arteries and main artery into superior rectal and sigmoid arteries. In fifth case, this artery trifitrcated into three branches namely, sigmoid, rectosigmoid, and superior rectal arteries. Left colic artery arose from superior mesenteric artery. Conclusion: The knowledge of branching pattern of inferior mesenteric artery will be of paramount importance to colon surgeons during colectomy, to radiologists in avoiding misinterpretation of radiographs and anatomists for new variants.
Financialisation and financial crisis in Iceland
Authors: Guðmundsson Björn Rúnar
Published: December 2016

Financialisation in Iceland should be seen as an evolving process driven by a mixture of global and domestic forces. Responding to fundamental issues underlying macroeconomic imbalances, the authorities introduced policies that proved particularly supportive of financial expansion at a time when cross-border capital movements were rapidly on the rise. Consequently, the rise in financial activity has had profound effects on income distribution and corporate and household behaviour. Following the 2008 financial meltdown, which was triggered by excessive growth of the financial sector, financialisation in Iceland has reversed to a degree, allowing for a shift away from financial-led towards increasingly export-led growth.
Firms’ excess savings and the Dutch current-account surplus: a stock-flow consistent approach
Authors: Meijers Huub , Muysken Joan , Sleijpen Olaf
Published: December 2016

Retained profits of firms exceed investment in the Netherlands. The resulting net savings are mainly invested in foreign assets, which is consistent with the surplus on the current account of the balance of payments. Both have increased to almost 10 per cent of GDP in recent years. We present a stock-flow consistent model to explain firms’ excess savings, inspired by Hein (2012), in an open economy context. This enables us to model the preference of firms to invest in financial assets abroad and to analyse the observed close link between firms’ excess savings and the current-account surplus. As a consequence, we also explain the close relationship between net household savings and government budget deficit. We present simulation results to illustrate the workings of our model.
Spatial and temporal variations of wave energy in the nearshore waters of the central west coast of India
Authors: Amrutha M. M. , Sanil Kumar V.
Published: December 2016

Abstract. Assessment of wave power potential at different water depths and time is required for identifying a wave power plant location. This study examines the variation in wave power off the central west coast of India at water depths of 30, 9 and 5 m based on waverider buoy measured wave data. The study shows a significant reduction ( ∼  10 to 27 %) in wave power at 9 m water depth compared to 30 m and the wave power available at 5 m water depth is 20 to 23 % less than that at 9 m. At 9 m depth, the seasonal mean value of the wave power varied from 1.6 kW m−1 in the post-monsoon period (ONDJ) to 15.2 kW m−1 in the Indian summer monsoon (JJAS) period. During the Indian summer monsoon period, the variation of wave power in a day is up to 32 kW m−1. At 9 m water depth, the mean annual wave power is 6 kW m−1 and interannual variations up to 19.3 % are observed during 2009–2014. High wave energy ( >  20 kW m−1) at the study area is essentially from the directional sector 245–270° and also 75 % of the total annual wave energy is from this narrow directional sector, which is advantageous while aligning the wave energy converter.
Censura y traducción: el caso de "Nadie vuelve atrás", de Alba de Céspedes
Authors: González de Sande María Mercedes
Published: December 2016

En el presente artículo se presenta la figura de Alba de Céspedes, y, en particular, su novela de mayor éxito nacional e internacional: Nessuno torna indietro (1937), deteniéndonos en el análisis de una de las versiones de su traducción al español, concretamente la tercera edición, publicada en 1943, que, bajo imposición del régimen franquista, reducía y modificaba buena parte de los contenidos incluidos en las dos primeras ediciones, más fieles a la versión original en italiano. Veremos en particular cuáles son las partes a las que el traductor presta mayor atención y en qué modo las modifica, reduce o suprime para que la novela pase el duro filtro de la censura franquista.
Using Songs in Teaching Oral Skills to Young Learners: Teachers’ Views and Attitudes
Authors: Almutairi Maryam , Shukri Nadia
Published: December 2016

The major aim of this descriptive research study was to explore the views and attitudes of English as a Foreign Language (EFL) teachers in Saudi Arabia about using songs when Teaching English to Young Learner (TEYL) oral skills (listening and speaking) specifically. The opinions of English language teachers in primary school in Jeddah (n=89) were collected through the use of one instrument which is questionnaire. The data were generated using the IBM SPSS Statistics 22® program. The results demonstrated that most of the teachers surveyed realize the pedagogical value of using songs when teaching English oral skills to Young Learner (YL), however, they do not use songs because of their religious and cultural beliefs. Therefore, it is suggested that teachers should be provided with chants that are free of musical instruments to avoid any controversies with cultural or religious beliefs. The development of a website that contains educational songs and is designed specifically to suit Saudi EFL teachers’ needs is strongly recommended.
Organizational Trust: A Gateway to Psychological Empowerment
Authors: Alajmi Sanad A.
Published: December 2016

This study investigates the relationship between psychological empowerment of employees and organizational trust within Kuwaiti industrial companies. It focuses on two dimensions of organizational trust; namely, trust in supervisors and trust in the organization. A total of 450 questionnaires were submitted to industrial companies in the Subhan Industrial Area, of which350 were completed. The results indicate that a significant positive correlation exists between psychological empowerment of the employees of these companies and organizational trust. The findings indicate that trust in the supervisor and in the organizationexplains21.8% and 13.1%, respectively, of the variation in psychological empowerment. Trust in the supervisor correlates significantly and positively with all dimensions of psychological empowerment whereas trust in the organization correlates significantly and positively with only three dimensions of psychological empowerment; namely, meaning, competence, and self-determination. The study concludes by explaining the limitations involved and suggests future research directions to enhance psychological empowerment and trust in industrial companies in Kuwait.
The importance of healthcare managers’ organizational preconditions and support resources for their appraisal of planned change and its outcomes
Authors: Andreasson Jörgen , Ahlstrom Linda , Eriksson Andrea , Dellve Lotta
Published: December 2016

Background: Healthcare managers are expected to lead and manage planned organizational change intended to improve healthcare process quality. However, their complex working conditions offer limited decision control, and healthcare managers often feel ill prepared and inadequately supported to perform their duties. Healthcare managers have previously described their need for organizational support, but we lack knowledge of the preconditions and resources that help managers implement planned change.Methods: This prospective cohort study examined healthcare managers at three Swedish hospitals implementing lean production and two Swedish hospitals implementing their own improvement model. Questionnaire data from 2012, 2103, and 2014 were used in following up. We used t-tests and a linear mixed model design in analysing the data.Results: Healthcare managers who perceived strong support from managers, employees, colleagues, and the organization and managers with the longest managerial experience had the least negative appraisal of change. Managers who perceived strong support from employees, management, and the organizational structure perceived higher levels of healthcare process quality.Conclusions: Long managerial experience and strong support from managers, employees, and the organization are important formanagers’ appraisal of, work on, and successful implementation of planned change. Top management must therefore ensure that the healthcare managers have sufficient managerial experience and support before they delegate to them the responsibility to implement planned change.
Study of the Social and Cultural Aspects of Saudi Tourists and Evaluate the Services Provided to Tourist of Saudi - An Applied Study for the Tourism Sector in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Damanhouri Amal Mohammed Sheikh
Published: December 2016

The current study is based on the tourism sector in Saudi Arabia. Kingdom’s tourism industry earnings from international travelers and tourism services are poised to hit SAR80 billion in 2015. The tourism industry in Saudi Arabia has witnessed an increasing level of growth in recent years and is seen to continue this trend moving forward. The industry has undergone a major transformation led by the commitment to upgrade the Kingdom’s infrastructure as well as improving its hospitality sector. Religious tourism is the main attraction for inbound tourists and will continue to be so for the foreseeable future, the government has taken steps to increase domestic tourism and persuade potential outbound tourists from vacationing abroad. However, large investment in the sector is required to bring these ambitious plans to fruition. The tourism sector comprises only 2% of government funding compared to the industrial sector. In this report random sampling was used as it is the best known form of probability sample. Pilot study was conducted by taking convenience sampling. To find the quantitative analysis SPSS 18.0 software is used. In this report factor analysis is used for the reliability test of the questionnaire. Chi-Square test is used for comparing the collected data with the desired data from the certain hypothesis on the other hand Pearson Correlation is used to measure means of a statistical test. The study evaluates the services provided to the tourist visiting the kingdom and at the same time it measures the satisfaction level of the tourists. The report is based on primary and secondary data for the primary data the questionnaire was used and being distributed to the tourists visiting the kingdom. Five hypothesis was proposed and are being analyzed using Chi – Square test and correlation test. The current study states that there are several variables, where excellent satisfaction is being rated by the tourists where as there are several factors where the authority needs to pay importance, which is mentioned in detail in this report. The outcome of this report also suggests some major policy recommendation by which convenience, excellence and comfort could be given to the tourists visiting the kingdom.
Sustainability and Competitive Advantage: A Study in a Brazilian Cosmetic Company
Authors: Isaac Renata , De Melo Conti Diego , Ghobril Carlos Nabil , Netto Luiz Fostinone , Junior Caludio Tucci
Published: December 2016

Sustainability is an increasingly common and important issue in daily life, which in turn becomes an advantage when handled strategically by managers in their businesses. Nevertheless, in the Brazilian cosmetics and personal care industry one can find companies that consciously resist this trend. In this context, this article aims to highlight the advantages of using sustainability as a business strategy. The method used was a case study with a qualitative approach. In the case of the company, which was the subject of study of this work, the reasons that have led it to remain inert are strongly related to its model for running the business, especially the lack of long-term planning, a strong hierarchy, low leadership awareness and overvaluation of investors, making sustainability a seemingly incompatible matter for the organization. The studied company's own stakeholders, particularly employees, have identified several innovative opportunities for it to progress toward sustainability. However, in most cases, managers have been prevented from pursuing sustainable actions on the grounds that such initiatives are subjective and have no value.
Factors Affecting the Adoption of Water Harvesting Technologies: A Case Study of Jordanian Arid Area
Authors: Akroush Samia , Dehehibi Boubaker , Dessalegn Bezaiet , Al-Hadidi Omamah , Abo-Roman Malek
Published: December 2016

In this article, we investigate the determinants of farmers’ decisions to adopt water harvesting technologies (WHT) in the arid agricultural area of Jordan. In particular, we investigate the effect of different socio-demographic, economic, and institutional factors on the adoption of WHT. For doing so, we empirically apply a binary logistic regression model on a micro-dataset (59 farmers) in Jordanian Badia. Empirical findings indicate that there is no significant relationship between age and the probability of adoption of WHT. However, our findings show significantly positive relationships at 10% level for farmer education and experience which implies that farmers with higher education and experience level are more likely to adopt WHT. In contrast, it was found that labor and institutional variables such as credit services do not significantly influence adoption of WHT. Results also reveal a significant relationship between land tenure and adoption implying higher adoption rates on communal land as opposed to privately owned land. Based on our empirical results, this research will assist decision makers to prioritize the factors influencing adoption of WHT and provide insights for targeted dissemination, adoption, and diffusion of WHT in the Jordanian arid areas.
A Digital Cognitive Behavioral Therapy Program for Adults With Alcohol Use Disorder
Authors: Kiluk Brian D. , Benitez Bryan , DeVito Elise E. , Frankforter Tami L. , LaPaglia Donna M. , O’Malley Stephanie S. , Nich Charla
Published: September 2024

Importance

Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) is an evidence-based treatment for alcohol use, yet patient access is limited and may be enhanced through digital therapeutics.

Objective

To evaluate the efficacy of a digital CBT program (Computer-Based Training for Cognitive Behavioral Therapy [CBT4CBT]) or clinician-delivered CBT compared with standard treatment for reducing alcohol use.

Design, Setting, and Participants

A 3-arm randomized clinical trial was conducted at outpatient substance use treatment facilities in Connecticut between February 14, 2017, and December 31, 2021, that included an 8-week treatment period with a 6-month follow-up period. Treatment-seeking adults were included who met criteria for current alcohol use disorder and reported drinking at least 14 (men) or 7 (women) drinks per week in the past month and were sufficiently stable for outpatient treatment.

Interventions

Participants were randomly assigned to 1 of the following groups: (1) treatment as usual (TAU) consisting of weekly group or individual counseling, (2) CBT delivered weekly by trained and fidelity-monitored clinicians, or (3) web-based CBT plus brief weekly clinical monitoring.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Rates of alcohol use were measured weekly during the treatment period and at 1-, 3-, and 6-month follow-up using the timeline follow-back method. The primary outcome was the percentage of days abstinent (PDA) from alcohol per month. Intention-to-treat analyses were conducted.

Results

Of the 99 randomized participants (mean [SD] age, 45.5 [12.7]), 66 were male (66.7%); 39 identified as Black/African American (39.8%), 19 (19.2%) as Hispanic, and 47 (48.0%) as White. Mean (SD) rates of PDA from baseline to 6-month follow-up were 49.3% (27.8%) to 69.6% (34.4%) for TAU; 53.7% (29.8%) to 70.2% (35.1%) for CBT; and 47.6% (31.8%) to 82.6% (25.3%) for digital CBT. Results of random-effects regression showed a significant increase in PDA during the study period, with those assigned to digital CBT increasing PDA at a faster rate than TAU (t733 = 2.55; P = .01) and CBT (t733 = 3.36; P < .001). However, there was no statistically significant difference between treatment groups during the 8-week treatment period.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this randomized clinical trial, while there was no significant difference between treatment groups during the 8-week treatment period, there was differential change between treatments during the 8-month study period that provides support for the efficacy of this digital CBT program.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT02742246
Oral Microbiome and Subsequent Risk of Head and Neck Squamous Cell Cancer
Authors: Kwak Soyoung , Wang Chan , Usyk Mykhaylo , Wu Feng , Freedman Neal D. , Huang Wen-Yi , McCullough Marjorie L. , Um Caroline Y. , Shrubsole Martha J. , Cai Qiuyin , Li Huilin , Ahn Jiyoung , Hayes Richard B.
Published: September 2024

Importance

The oral microbiota may be involved in development of head and neck squamous cell cancer (HNSCC), yet current evidence is largely limited to bacterial 16S amplicon sequencing or small retrospective case-control studies.

Objective

To test whether oral bacterial and fungal microbiomes are associated with subsequent risk of HNSCC development.

Design, Setting, and Participants

Prospective nested case-control study among participants providing oral samples in 3 epidemiological cohorts, the American Cancer Society Cancer Prevention Study II Nutrition Cohort, the Prostate, Lung, Colorectal, and Ovarian Cancer Screening Trial, and the Southern Community Cohort Study. Two hundred thirty-six patients who prospectively developed HNSCC were identified during a mean (SD) of 5.1 (3.6) years of follow-up. Control participants who remained HNSCC free were selected by 2:1 frequency matching on cohort, age, sex, race and ethnicity, and time since oral sample collection. Data analysis was conducted in 2023.

Exposures

Characterization of the oral bacterial microbiome using whole-genome shotgun sequencing and the oral fungal microbiome using internal transcribed spacer sequencing. Association of bacterial and fungal taxa with HNSCC was assessed by analysis of compositions of microbiomes with bias correction. Association with red and orange oral pathogen complexes was tested by logistic regression. A microbial risk score for HNSCC risk was calculated from risk-associated microbiota.

Main Outcomes and Measures

The primary outcome was HNSCC incidence.

Results

The study included 236 HNSCC case participants with a mean (SD) age of 60.9 (9.5) years and 24.6% women during a mean of 5.1 (3.6) years of follow-up, and 485 matched control participants. Overall microbiome diversity at baseline was not related to subsequent HNSCC risk; however 13 oral bacterial species were found to be differentially associated with development of HNSCC. The species included the newly identified Prevotella salivae, Streptococcus sanguinis, and Leptotrichia species, as well as several species belonging to beta and gamma Proteobacteria. The red/orange periodontal pathogen complex was moderately associated with HNSCC risk (odds ratio, 1.06 per 1 SD; 95% CI, 1.00-1.12). A 1-SD increase in microbial risk score (created based on 22 bacteria) was associated with a 50% increase in HNSCC risk (multivariate odds ratio, 1.50; 95% CI, 1.21-1.85). No fungal taxa associated with HNSCC risk were identified.

Conclusions and Relevance

This case-control study yielded compelling evidence that oral bacteria are a risk factor for HNSCC development. The identified bacteria and bacterial complexes hold promise, along with other risk factors, to identify high-risk individuals for personalized prevention of HNSCC.
Recurrent Fevers in a Patient With Splenomegaly
Authors: D’Souza Darren , Cuesta Braulio , Law Jennie Y.
Published: September 2024

A 36-year-old man presented with 10 weeks of recurrent fevers, malaise, night sweats, unintentional weight loss, and dyspnea. What is your diagnosis?
SMARCA4 mutations and expression in lung adenocarcinoma: prognostic significance and impact on the immunotherapy response
Authors: Zhang Yuming , Sun Dantong , Han Weizhong , Yang Zhen , Lu Yongzhi , Zhang Xuchen , Wang Yongjie , Zhang Chuantao , Liu Ning , Hou Helei
Published: September 2024

The switch/sucrose non‐fermenting (SWI/SNF) complex family includes important chromatin‐remodeling factors that are frequently mutated in lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD). However, the role of one family member, SMARCA4, in LUAD prognosis and immunotherapy sensitivity remains unclear. In the present study, 6745 LUAD samples from the cBioPortal database were used to analyze the relationships between SMARCA4 mutations and patient prognoses and clinical characteristics. Additionally, we examined the correlation between SMARCA4 mutations and prognosis in patients treated with immunotherapy using two immune‐related datasets. SMARCA4 mutations and low expression were associated with shorter survival, and mutations were associated with a high tumor mutational burden and high microsatellite instability. SMARCA4 mutations were accompanied by KRAS, KEAP1, TP53 and STK11 mutations. No significant difference was observed in the immunotherapy response between patients with and without SMARCA4 mutations. When KRAS or STK11 mutations were present, immunotherapy effectiveness was poorer; however, when both SMARCA4 and TP53 mutations were present, immunotherapy was more effective. Furthermore, low SMARCA4 expression predicted a higher immunophenoscore, and SMARCA4 expression was correlated with certain immune microenvironment features. Taken together, our results suggest that SMARCA4 mutations and low expression might be associated with poor LUAD prognosis. Additionally, immunotherapy efficacy in patients with SMARCA4 mutations depended on the co‐mutant genes. Thus, SMARCA4 could be an important factor to be considered for LUAD diagnosis and treatment.
Violent attitudes in Portugal and Canada: Measurement invariance and psychometric properties of the Evaluation of Violence Questionnaire
Authors: Nunes Kevin L. , Pechorro Pedro , Peters Joshua R.
Published: September 2024

Theory and evidence suggest that attitudes toward violence are relevant for the explanation, prediction, and reduction of violent behavior. The purpose of the present study was to adapt a measure of violent attitudes—the Evaluation of Violence Questionnaire (EVQ)—for use in Portugal, test the cross‐country equivalence, and test the validity of both versions. We found the expected one‐factor structure, high internal consistency, and cross‐country measurement invariance for the Portuguese and original EVQ with men in Portugal (N = 320) and Canada (N = 298). We also found the expected pattern of correlations with measures of more versus less theoretically relevant constructs: both versions of the EVQ showed the strongest correlations with overall aggression and reactive aggression; slightly lower correlations with proactive aggression; negative correlations with self‐control; and the smallest correlations with self‐esteem. Our results support the equivalence, reliability, and validity of the Portuguese and original versions of the EVQ.
Influence of β Grain Orientation on the Stress‐Induced Martensite Formation in Cold‐Rolled Metastable β Ti–5Mo–5V–5Al–3Cr Alloy
Authors: Rastogi Abhishek , Neelakantan Suresh
Published: September 2024

Solution‐treated metastable β Ti–5Mo–5V–5Al–3Cr (Ti 5553) alloy processed through cold rolling at strain levels of 5–45% results in stress‐induced martensitic transformations (SIMT). Further, the cold‐deformed sample is annealed at 860 °C for 5 min to achieve recrystallization and relieve internal stresses. The influence of recrystallized β grain orientations on Ti‐5553 deformation behavior is characterized using nanoindentation tests. As β grain orientation changes from near <111> to <001> direction, the alloy exhibits an increase in hardness (from ≈6.3 to ≈6.6 GPa) and a decrease in elastic modulus (from ≈127 to ≈120 GPa). It can be inferred that a threshold stress is necessary to activate SIMT in each orientation due to the stress gradient from the top surface to the indent tip at a certain penetration depth in the sample. Additionally, the influence of alloying elements (e.g., Mo, V, Al, and Cr) on β phase stability as a function of grain orientations is confirmed using the electron probe microanalyzer. Observations indicate that <111> grain orientation is most preferred, followed by <101> for promoting stress‐induced martensite, while <001> is least preferred.
Hydrogenated Pyridine‐Pyrrole Nitrogen‐Doped Carbon for High‐Efficiency Electrosynthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide in NaCl Electrolyte
Authors: Xie Huarui , Fu Jianjun , Liu Jia , Yang Bin , Shen Pei Kang , Tian Zhi Qun
Published: September 2024

Developing metal‐free carbon catalysts is critical to achieve the electrosynthesis of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) via two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e− ORR) using seawater as electrolyte. Herein, N‐rich doped carbon (NC) is synthesized by directly pyrolyzing guanine as both N and C sources, which can facilitate the formation of ultrahigh‐N dopant (up to 33.89 at.%), and their ratios. The NC obtained at 700 °C with hydrogenated pyridine‐N and pyrrole‐N (3:2) dopants exhibits a superior selectivity of H2O2 (up to 96%), high mass activity of 545.5 A g−1 at 0.2 V versus RHE and stable production of H2O2 with 16.8 in 0.5 M NaCl. In situ Fourier transform infrared spectrum analysis proves that hydrogenated pyridine‐N and pyrrole‐N dopants play a critical role in constructing metal‐free active sites for the synthesis of H2O2. Meanwhile, theoretical calculations further reveal that compared to non‐hydrogenated N dopants, hydrogenated pyridine and pyrrole N can tune the projected density of states of 2pz orbitals of their adjacent carbon atoms approaching Fermi Level, enhancing *OOH to H2O2 through 2e− ORR rather than H2O via 4e− ORR. This work provides new insights for developing metal‐free catalysts for efficient electrosynthesis of H2O2 using seawater resources as promising electrolytes.
Increases in 4‐Acetaminobutyric Acid Generated by Phosphomevalonate Kinase Suppress CD8+ T Cell Activation and Allow Tumor Immune Escape
Authors: Zhou Xinyi , Chen Zhiqiang , Yu Yijiang , Li Mengjiao , Cao Yu , Prochownik Edward V. , Li Youjun
Published: September 2024

Certain metabolites in the tumor microenvironment (TME) can alter innate immunity. Here, it is shown how phosphomevalonate kinase (PMVK) allows hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) cells to overcome the anti‐tumor immunity mediated by CD8+ T cells. In HCCs, depletion of PMVK is required to facilitate CD8+ T cell activation and their subsequent suppression of tumor growth. Mechanistically, PMVK phosphorylates and stabilizes glutamate decarboxylase 1 (GAD1), thus increasing the synthesis of γ‐aminobutyric acid (GABA), which normally functions as a neurotransmitter. However, PMVK also recruits acetyl‐CoA acetyltransferase 1 (ACAT1) and allows it to convert GABA, to 4‐acetaminobutyric acid (4‐Ac‐GABA), which is released into the TME. There, 4‐Ac‐GABA activates the GABAA receptor (GABAAR) on CD8+ T cells, which inhibits AKT1 signaling. This in turn suppresses CD8+ T cell activation, intratumoral infiltration, and the anti‐tumor response. Inhibiting PMVK or GABAAR in HCC mouse models overcomes resistance to anti‐PD‐1 immune checkpoint therapy. These findings reveal non‐canonical and cooperative functions among the key metabolic enzymes PMVK, GAD1, and ACAT1 that reprogram glutamine metabolism to synthesize a potent CD8+ T cell inhibitor 4‐Ac‐GABA. Blocking 4‐Ac‐GABA signaling in CD8+ T cells, particularly when combined with immune checkpoint inhibition, potentially represents a new and potent form of immunotherapy.
Polarization Pruning: Reliability Enhancement of Hafnia‐Based Ferroelectric Devices for Memory and Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Koo Ryun‐Han , Shin Wonjun , Kim Jangsaeng , Yim Jiyong , Ko Jonghyun , Jung Gyuweon , Im Jiseong , Park Sung‐Ho , Kim Jae‐Joon , Cheema Suraj S , Kwon Daewoong , Lee Jong‐Ho
Published: September 2024

Ferroelectric (FE) materials are key to advancing electronic devices owing to their non‐volatile properties, rapid state‐switching abilities, and low‐energy consumption. FE‐based devices are used in logic circuits, memory‐storage devices, sensors, and in‐memory computing. However, the primary challenge in advancing the practical applications of FE‐based memory is its reliability. To address this problem, a novel polarization pruning (PP) method is proposed. The PP is designed to eliminate weakly polarized domains by applying an opposite‐sign pulse immediately after a program or erase operation. Significant improvements in the reliability of ferroelectric devices are achieved by reducing the depolarization caused by weakly polarized domains and mitigating the fluctuations in the ferroelectric dipole. These enhancements include a 25% improvement in retention, a 50% reduction in read noise, a 45% decrease in threshold voltage variation, and a 72% improvement in linearity. The proposed PP method significantly improves the memory storage efficiency and performance of neuromorphic systems.
Current state and potential applications of neonatal Fc receptor (FcRn) inhibitors in hematologic conditions
Authors: Jacobs Jeremy W. , Booth Garrett S. , Raza Sheharyar , Clark Landon M. , Fasano Ross M. , Gavriilaki Eleni , Abels Elizabeth A. , Binns Thomas C. , Duque Miriam Andrea , McQuilten Zoe K. , Mingot‐Castellano María Eva , Savani Bipin N. , Sharma Deva , Tran Minh‐Ha , Tormey Christopher A. , Moise Kenneth J. , Bloch Evan M. , Adkins Brian D.
Published: September 2024

The neonatal fragment crystallizable (Fc) receptor (FcRn) transports IgG across mucosal surfaces and the placenta and protects IgG from degradation. Numerous clinical trials are investigating therapeutic FcRn inhibition for various immune‐mediated neuromuscular and rheumatologic conditions; however, FcRn inhibition also represents a potential therapy for IgG‐mediated hematologic conditions (e.g., immune thrombocytopenia, autoimmune hemolytic anemia, immune thrombotic thrombocytopenic purpura, acquired hemophilia, red blood cell/platelet alloimmunization). Current evidence derived from both in vitro and in vivo studies suggests that FcRn inhibitors effectively reduce total IgG levels without impacting its production or altering the levels of other immunoglobulin isotypes. Moreover, the risk of serious adverse events, including serious infections, appears to be lower than that seen with other commonly used immunomodulatory/immunosuppressive therapies, albeit in the setting of limited clinical trial data. Ultimately, additional clinical trials that include varied patient populations are required prior to incorporating these agents into standard treatment algorithms for most hematologic conditions. However, based on the pathophysiology of IgG‐mediated hematologic disorders and the mechanism of action of FcRn inhibitors, these agents may represent a future novel therapeutic strategy for patients with hematologic conditions caused by IgG antibodies.
Severe Phenotype With RECQL4 Syndrome: A Report of Two Cases
Authors: Kanai Yu , Takahashi Hironori , Hasegawa Fuyuki , Hori Asuka , Suzuki Hisato , Takahashi Shoko , Fukushima Hiroko , Takada Hidetoshi , Horie Kenji , Ozawa Katsunori , Furukawa Rieko , Kosaki Kenjiro , Hata Kenichiro
Published: September 2024

Baller–Gerold syndrome (BGS, OMIM: 218600), RAPADILINO syndrome (OMIM 266280), and Rothmund–Thomson syndrome (RTS, OMIM 266280), which are caused in some cases by RECQL4 pathogenic variants, show autosomal recessive inheritance. Some refer to them collectively as RECQL4 syndromes. Most cases have been reported during infancy and childhood periods. However, there have been no reports of phenotypes resulting in a lethal course in the perinatal period. We identified two fetuses with biallelic RECQL4 pathogenic variants during the perinatal period. The two fetuses with RECQL4 syndrome showed structural abnormalities, including severely hypoplastic forearms and lower legs. One fetus also had severe pulmonary hypoplasia. One case resulted in neonatal death because of respiratory failure, and the other was artificially terminated during pregnancy. The RECQL4 pathogenic variants were identified by exome sequencing followed by Sanger sequencing. The biallelic RECQL4 pathogenic variants can induce a lethal skeletal disorder.
REAL AD—Validation of a realistic screening approach for early Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Leuzy Antoine , Heeman Fiona , Bosch Iris , Lenér Frida , Dottori Maria , Quitz Kajsa , Moscoso Alexis , Kern Silke , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Schöll Michael
Published: September 2024

Early diagnosis is crucial to treatment success. This is especially relevant for Alzheimer's disease (AD), with its protracted preclinical phase. Most health care systems do not have the resources to conduct large‐scale AD screenings in middle‐aged individuals in need of novel AD treatment options and early, accurate diagnosis. Recent developments in blood‐based biomarkers and remote cognitive testing offer novel, cost‐effective, and scalable methods to detect cognitive and biomarker changes that may indicate early AD. In research cohorts, promising results have been reported, but these modalities have not been validated in population‐based settings. The validation of a realistic screening approach for early Alzheimer's disease (REAL AD) study aims to validate the diagnostic and prognostic performance of the combined use of blood‐based biomarkers and remote cognitive testing as a screening approach for early AD employing an existing health care infrastructure (the Swedish Västra Götaland Region Primary Healthcare). REAL AD aims to provide a concrete, individualized diagnostic framework, which could significantly improve AD prognosis.

Highlights

In Sweden, most Alzheimer's disease (AD) diagnoses are made in primary care, where access to AD biomarkers is almost non‐existent.

Most health care systems have limited resources for the screening of middle‐aged adults for early evidence of AD pathology.

Blood‐based biomarkers and remote cognitive testing offer novel, cost‐effective, and scalable methods for detecting cognitive and biomarker changes that may indicate early AD.

The REAL AD study aims to validate the diagnostic and prognostic performance of blood‐based biomarkers and remote cognitive testing as a screening approach for early AD in an existing primary health care infrastructure in the Västra Götaland Region in Sweden.

Studies such as REAL AD will play a vital role in helping to move the field toward concrete implementation of biomarkers in AD diagnostic workup at all care levels, eventually providing more comprehensive treatments options for the large and growing AD population, and for those at risk.
Quantized Orbital Angular Momentums of Dipolar Magnons and Magnetoelectric Cavity Polaritons
Authors: Kamenetskii E. O.
Published: September 2024

Magnons are viewed as local deviations from the ordered state. Usually, the spin magnetic moment of magnons is considered. In a 3D‐confined structure of a magnetic insulator with magnetodipolar mode (MDM) oscillations, an orbital angular momentum (OAM) as well as a spin angular momentum (SAM) can be observed along a static magnetic field. In such a confined structure as quasi‐2D ferrite disk, energy levels of MDM oscillations are quantized. Quantum confinement is characterized by a half‐integer internal OAM, which is also associated with a circulating energy flow. The observation of MDM resonances in the 3D‐confined structure of a magnetic insulator is due to the interaction of two subsystems: ferromagnetic and electric polarization orders. The coupling states of these two concurrent orders, caused by OAMs, are considered as magnetoelectric (ME) states. The near fields of MDM resonators are characterized by simultaneous violation of time reversal and inversion symmetry. This plays a significant role in the problems of strong light‐matter interaction regime and quantum atmosphere. The analysis of SAM and OAM in 3D‐confined magnetic insulators becomes very important for the realization of ME meta‐atomic structures. Current interest lies in considering such artificial systems as subwavelength ME quantum emitters of electromagnetic radiation.