bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical Expansion Preconditioning Promotes Host-Derived Adipocyte Dedifferentiation and Migration into Fat Grafts in a Murine Model
Authors: He Yufei , Liang Zhuokai , Tang Haojing , Li Jian , Ma Jingjing , Shi Jiaolong , Cai Junrong , Liao Yunjun
Published: September 2023

Background:

The unstable recipient conditions after fat grafting remain an obstacle for tissue volumization. The interaction between fat grafts and recipient sites is not fully understood. The authors hypothesize that recipient-derived adipocytes undergo dedifferentiation and migrate into fat grafts in tissue regeneration.

Methods:

To observe the participation from recipient fat pad, the authors established a recipient adipocyte-tracing model where 0.2 mL of inguinal fat from 10 8-week-old C57BL/6 mice was grafted to 10 tamoxifen-treated AdipoqCre;mT/mG mice. Next, to evaluate the impact of physical force on recipient fat and fat graft, a murine internal expansion model was established by implanting a 1-mL internal expander on the inguinal fat pad of the lineage tracing mice that received fat graft from C57BL/6 mice. Transplanted adipose tissue was collected and analyzed by immunostaining of green fluorescent protein (GFP), tdTomato, perilipin, and CD31.

Results:

In the observing model, immunostaining revealed that both GFP+ and tdTomato+ cells from the recipient fat pad presented in fat grafts. Among the GFP+ cells, most of them were perilipin+ adipocytes and other perilipin− cells co-expressed octamer-binding transcription factor 4, indicating dedifferentiated adipocytes. In the internal expansion model, internal expansion increased GFP+ cells in fat graft. Both octamer-binding transcription factor 4–positive/GFP+ (0.23 ± 0.01 versus 0.12 ± 0.04) and perilipin+/GFP+ (0.17 ± 0.02 versus 0.06 ± 0.01) cells were increased in the expanded group, compared with control.

Conclusions:

Host-derived adipocytes participate in fat graft regeneration through migration and dedifferentiation, which could be enhanced by internal expansion to increase fat graft retention rate. Further study using a larger animal model is needed, because this is a murine study.

Clinical Relevance Statement:

Surgeons are encouraged to use physical expansion preconditioning of the recipient site. Subsequent and multiple fat grafting into the fat layer is encouraged to obtain satisfactory soft-tissue volumization.
Using antibiotics wisely
Authors: Jung Jae , Cozzi Francesca , Forrest Graeme N.
Published: September 2023

Purpose of review

This review will describe role of shorter antibiotic therapies, early switch from intravenous to oral therapy, and artificial intelligence in infectious diseases.

Recent findings

There is evidence that shorter courses of antibiotics are noninferior to standard durations of therapy. This has been demonstrated with Enterobacterales bacteremia that can be treated with 7 days of therapy, community acquired pneumonia with 3 days and ventilator associated pneumonia with just 7 days of antibiotic therapy. The conversion from intravenous to oral therapy in treating bacteremia, endocarditis and bone and joint infections is safe and effective and reduces line complications and costs. Also, for clean surgical procedures only one dose of antibiotic is needed, but it should be the most effective antibiotic which is cefazolin. This means avoiding clindamycin, removing penicillin allergies where possible for improved outcomes. Finally, the role of artificial intelligence to incorporate into using antibiotics wisely is rapidly emerging but is still in early stages.

In using antibiotics wisely, targeting such as durations of therapy and conversion from intravenous antibiotic therapy to oral are low hanging fruit. The future of artificial intelligence could automate a lot of this work and is exciting but needs to be proven.

Video abstract

http://links.lww.com/COID/A50
11-month SARS-CoV-2 immunogenicity decay, and associated factors, among mRNA vaccinees: Implications for Booster Vaccination
Authors: Asamoah-Boaheng Michael , Grunau Brian , Haig Scott , Karim Mohammad Ehsanul , Kirkham Tracy , Lavoie Pascal M. , Sediqi Sadaf , Drews Steven J. , O'Brien Sheila F , Barakauskas Vilte , Marquez Ana Citlali , Jassem Agatha , Goldfarb David
Published: September 2023

BackgroundWe examined the 11-month longitudinal antibody decay among 2-dose mRNA vaccinees, and identified factors associated with faster decay.MethodsThe study included samples from the CORSIP longitudinal observational study of paramedics in Canada. Participants were included if they had received two mRNA vaccines without prior SARS-CoV-2 infection and provided two blood samples post-vaccination. The outcomes of interest were quantitative SARS-CoV-2 antibody concentrations. We employed spaghetti and scatter plots (with kernel-weighted local polynomial smoothing curve) to describe the trend of the antibody decay over 11-months post vaccine and fit a mixed effect exponential decay model to examine the loss of immunogenicity and factors associated with antibody waning over time.ResultsThis analysis included 652 blood samples from 326 adult paramedics. Total anti-spike antibody levels peaked on the 21st day (antibody level 9,042U/mL) after the second mRNA vaccine dose. Total anti-spike antibody levels declined thereafter, with a half-life of 94 [95% CI: 70, 143] days, with levels plateauing at 295 days (antibody level 1021 U/mL). Older age, vaccine dosing interval <35 days, and the BNT162b2 vaccine (compared to mRNA-1273 vaccine) were associated with faster antibody decay.ConclusionAntibody levels declined after the initial mRNA series with a half-life of 94 days, plateauing at 295 days. These findings may inform the timing of booster vaccine doses and identifying individuals with faster antibody decay.
Pangenome reconstruction ofLactobacillaceaemetabolism predicts species-specific metabolic traits
Authors: Ardalani Omid , Phaneuf Patrick , Mohite Omkar S. , Nielsen Lars K. , Palsson Bernhard O.
Published: September 2023

Strains across theLactobacillaceaefamily form the basis for a trillion-dollar industry. Our understanding of the genomic basis for their key traits is fragmented, however, including the metabolism that is foundational to their industrial uses. Pangenome analysis of publicly availableLactobacillaceaegenomes allowed us to generate genome-scale metabolic network reconstructions for 26 species of industrial importance. Their manual curation led to more than 75,000 gene-protein-reaction associations that were deployed to generate 2,446 genome-scale metabolic models. Cross-referencing genomes and known metabolic traits allowed for manual metabolic network curation and validation of the metabolic models. As a result, we provide the first pangenomic basis for metabolism in theLactobacillaceaefamily and a collection of predictive computational metabolic models that enable a variety of practical uses.
Mental health-related hospitalisations among adolescents with previous child protection contact from birth to age 11
Authors: Judd Jessica , Pilkington Rhiannon , Malvaso Catia , Procter Alexandra , Montgomerie Alicia , Anderson Jemma , Jureidini Jon , Petersen Julie , Lynch John , Chittleborough Catherine
Published: September 2023

Objectives

To examine the burden of mental health-related hospitalisations among adolescents by levels of previous child protection contact.

Design, setting and participants

Whole-of-population study of children born in South Australia, 1991-1999 (n=175,115), using de-identified linked administrative data from the Better Evidence Better Outcomes Linked Data (BEBOLD) platform.

Main outcome measures

Adolescents: proportion of adolescents aged 12-17 years with mental health hospitalisations; Hospitalisations: proportion of all adolescent mental health hospitalisations according to the level of child protection contact from 0-11 years.

Results

Overall, 15.5% (27,203/175,115 children) of adolescents had a history of child protection contact between ages 0-11 years, and 3.2% (5,646/175,115; 95% CI, 3.1 – 3.3) had a mental health-related hospitalisation between ages 12-17 years. Of the 10,633 mental health-related hospitalisations, 44.9% (95% CI, 44.0 – 45.9) were among adolescents with previous child protection contact even though they comprised only 15.5% of the study population. Of 5,646 adolescents with at least one mental health-related hospitalisation, 40.4% (95% CI, 39.1 – 41.7) had previous child protection contact. Among the population who experienced out-of-home care, 17.5% (209/1,191; 95% CI, 15.5 – 19.8) had experienced a mental health-related hospitalisation during adolescence, compared to 2.3% (3,366/147,912; 95% CI, 2.2 – 2.4) of adolescents with no prior child protection contact.

Conclusion

Almost 45% of mental health hospitalisations for 12-17-year-olds occurred among children who had child protection contact, despite that group comprising only 15.5% of the study population. Potential trauma sequelae associated with child protection history is important to consider in the response to adolescents hospitalised due to mental health challenges.

Significance of Study

The known

Adolescent mental health is an important public health issue and those in child protection are at higher risk of experiencing mental health challenges.

The new

We have quantified the burden of adolescent mental health hospitalisations attributable to the population with prior child protection system contact. For adolescents aged 12-17 years, those with a child protection history accounted for 44.9% of all adolescent mental health hospitalisations.

The implications

Potential trauma sequelae associated with child protection history are important to consider in the response to adolescents hospitalised due to mental health challenges.
Malaria species positivity rates among symptomatic individuals across regions of differing transmission intensities in Mainland Tanzania
Authors: Popkin Hall Zachary R. , Seth Misago D. , Madebe Rashid A. , Budodo Rule , Bakari Catherine , Francis Filbert , Pereus Dativa , Giesbrecht David J. , Mandara Celine I. , Mbwambo Daniel , Aaron Sijenunu , Lazaro Samwel , Bailey Jeffrey A. , Juliano Jonathan J. , Ishengoma Deus S.
Published: September 2023

Recent data indicate that non-Plasmodium falciparumspecies may be more prevalent than previously realized in sub-Saharan Africa, the region where 95% of the world’s malaria cases occur. AlthoughPlasmodium malariae, Plasmodium ovalespp., andPlasmodium vivaxare generally less severe thanP. falciparum, treatment and control are more challenging, and their geographic distributions are not well characterized. In order to characterize the distribution of malaria species in Mainland Tanzania (which has a high burden and geographically heterogeneous transmission levels), we randomly selected 3,284 samples from 12,845 samples to determine presence and parasitemia of different malaria species. The samples were collected from cross-sectional surveys in 100 health facilities across ten regions and analyzed via quantitative real-time PCR to characterize regional positivity rates for each species.P. falciparumwas most prevalent, butP. malariaeandP. ovalewere found in all regions except Dar es Salaam, with high levels (>5%) ofP. ovalein seven regions (70%). The highest positivity rate ofP. malariaewas 4.5% in Mara region and eight regions (80%) had positivity rates ≥1%. We also detected threeP. vivaxinfections in the very low-transmission Kilimanjaro region. While most samples that tested positive for non-falciparum malaria were co-infected withP. falciparum, 23.6% (n = 13/55) ofP. malariaeand 14.7% (n = 24/163) ofP. ovalespp. samples were mono-infections.P. falciparumremains by far the largest threat, but our data indicate that malaria elimination efforts in Tanzania will require increased surveillance and improved understanding of the biology of non-falciparum species.
Sensitivity of dual-task motor performance to varying levels of cognitive impairment: a systematic review and quality assessment
Authors: Kos Maciej , Pavel Misha , Jimison Holly B. , Saczynski Jane S.
Published: September 2023

Summary/Abstract

Dementia is one of the key public challenges of this century, with the number of persons with dementia worldwide projected to reach 115 million by 2050. This review aimed to answer whether monitoring of motor performance alone and during a cognitively taxing task (dual-task) is sufficiently sensitive to distinguish between levels of cognitive function (normal function, mild cognitive impairment, dementia) and, thus, appropriate for dementia screening. In the reviewed 15 studies, cognitively healthy controls had a higher dual-task gait speed than persons with impaired cognition (9/12 studies). The difference between dual- and single-task gait speeds (dual-task cost) was lower in healthy controls (7/8 studies). Such differences were not detected between patients with mild cognitive impairment and Alzheimer’s disease.

These results suggest that monitoring of dual-task performance may be used in early dementia screening. Diversity in research designs, lack of established statistical and reporting standards prevent meta-analysis of data.
Larval thermosensitivity shapes adult population dynamics inAnophelesmosquitoes
Authors: Estupiñán Juan , Weyrich Anna M. , Schlösser Paula , Naujoks Charlene , Gilden-hard Markus , Diarra Assetou , Diallo Mouctar , Sangare Djibril , Telschow Arndt , Hsieh Chih-hao , Levashina Elena A. , Carrillo-Bustamante Paola
Published: September 2023

Mosquitoes are vectors of human life-threatening pathogens, posing a significant global health threat. While the influence of temperature on mosquito life-history traits has been extensively studied in laboratory settings, the ecological factors shaping mosquito development and population dynamics in natural environments remain poorly understood. Here, we used a multi-disciplinary approach, integrating field data from Mali, laboratory experiments, and mathematical modeling, to investigate the causal relationships between climate variables and the abundance ofAnopheles gambiae s.l. mosquitoes. Using convergent-cross mapping analyses an adult abundance in the Nanguilabou village, we observed that the dynamics of adult mosquito populations was driven by larval thermosensitivity. To elucidate the underlying mechanisms, we conducted experimental studies that revealed a density-dependent larval thermal response. Through mathematical modeling, we quantified the complex interplay between temperature and larval density, demonstrating that temperature and density have independent, non-synergistic effects on larval developmental speed, mortality, and pupation rates. Our findings provide a mechanistic understanding of how larval development shapes adult mosquito populations, highlighting the significance of multidisciplinary approaches in studying climate-driven mosquito population dynamics.
A Humanized Yeast System for Evaluating the Protein Prenylation of a Wide Range of Human and Viral CaaX Sequences
Authors: Hildebrandt Emily R. , Sarkar Anushka , Ravishankar Rajani , Kim June H. , Schmidt Walter K.
Published: September 2023

The C-terminal CaaX sequence (cysteine-aliphatic-aliphatic-any of several amino acids) is subject to isoprenylation on the conserved cysteine and is estimated to occur in 1-2% of proteins within yeast and human proteomes. Recently, non-canonical CaaX sequences in addition to shorter and longer length CaX and CaaaX sequences have been identified that can be prenylated. Much of the characterization of prenyltransferases has relied on the yeast system because of its genetic tractability and availability of reporter proteins, such as thea-factor mating pheromone, Ras GTPase, and Ydj1 Hsp40 chaperone. To compare the properties of yeast and human prenyltransferases, including the recently expanded target specificity of yeast farnesyltransferase, we have developed yeast strains that express human farnesyltransferase or geranylgeranyltransferase-I in lieu of their yeast counterparts. The humanized yeast strains display robust prenyltransferase activity that functionally replaces yeast prenyltransferase activity in a wide array of tests, including the prenylation of a wide variety of canonical and non-canonical human CaaX sequences, virus encoded CaaX sequences, non-canonical length sequences, and heterologously expressed human proteins HRas and DNAJA2. These results reveal highly overlapping substrate specificity for yeast and human farnesyltransferase, and mostly overlapping substrate specificity for GGTase-I. This yeast system is a valuable tool for further defining the prenylome of humans and other organisms, identifying proteins for which prenylation status has not yet been determined.

Summary Statement

We report yeast engineered to express human prenylation enzymes with which prenylation can be investigated for established and novel CaaX sequences associated with proteins involved in human disease.
A flexible, modular and versatile functional part assembly toolkit for gene cluster engineering inStreptomyces
Authors: Zhao Xuejin , Zong Yeqing , Lou Qiuli , Qin Chenrui , Lou Chunbo
Published: September 2023

Streptomyceshas enormous potential to produce novel natural products (NPs) as it harbors a huge reservoir of uncharacterized and silent natural product biosynthetic gene clusters (BGCs). However, the lack of efficient gene cluster engineering strategies has hampered the pace of new drug discovery. Here, we developed an easy-to-use, highly flexible DNA assembly toolkit for gene cluster engineering. The DNA assembly toolkit are compatible with various DNA assembling approaches including Biobrick, Golden Gate, CATCH, yeast homologous recombination-based DNA assembly and homing endonuclease-mediated assembly. This compatibility offers great flexibility in handling multiple genetic parts or refactoring large gene clusters. To demonstrate the utility of this toolkit, we quantified a library of modular regulatory parts, and engineered a gene cluster (act) using characterized promoters that led to increased production. Overall, this work provides a powerful part assembly toolkit that can be used for natural product discovery and optimization inStreptomyces.
Enhancer-AAVs allow genetic access to oligodendrocytes and diverse populations of astrocytes across species
Authors: Mich John K. , Sunil Smrithi , Johansen Nelson , Martinez Refugio A. , Leytze Mckaila , Gore Bryan B. , Mahoney Joseph T. , Ben-Simon Yoav , Bishaw Yemeserach , Brouner Krissy , Campos Jazmin , Canfield Ryan , Casper Tamara , Dee Nick , Egdorf Tom , Gary Amanda , Gibson Shane , Goldy Jeff , Groce Erin L. , Hirschstein Daniel , Loftus Luke , Lusk Nick , Malone Jocelin , Martin Naomi X. , Monet Deja , Omstead Victoria , Opitz-Araya Ximena , Oster Aaron , Pom Christina A. , Potekhina Lydia , Reding Melissa , Rimorin Christine , Ruiz Augustin , Sedeño-Cortés Adriana E. , Shapovalova Nadiya V. , Taormina Michael , Taskin Naz , Tieu Michael , Valera Cuevas Nasmil J. , Weed Natalie , Way Sharon , Yao Zizhen , McMillen Delissa A. , Kunst Michael , McGraw Medea , Thyagarajan Bargavi , Waters Jack , Bakken Trygve E. , Yao Shenqin , Smith Kimberly A. , Svoboda Karel , Podgorski Kaspar , Kojima Yoshiko , Horwitz Greg D. , Zeng Hongkui , Daigle Tanya L. , Lein Ed S. , Tasic Bosiljka , Ting Jonathan T. , Levi Boaz P.
Published: September 2023

Proper brain function requires the assembly and function of diverse populations of neurons and glia. Single cell gene expression studies have mostly focused on characterization of neuronal cell diversity; however, recent studies have revealed substantial diversity of glial cells, particularly astrocytes. To better understand glial cell types and their roles in neurobiology, we built a new suite of adeno-associated viral (AAV)-based genetic tools to enable genetic access to astrocytes and oligodendrocytes. These oligodendrocyte and astrocyte enhancer-AAVs are highly specific (usually > 95% cell type specificity) with variable expression levels, and our astrocyte enhancer-AAVs show multiple distinct expression patterns reflecting the spatial distribution of astrocyte cell types. To provide the best glial-specific functional tools, several enhancer-AAVs were: optimized for higher expression levels, shown to be functional and specific in rat and macaque, shown to maintain specific activity in epilepsy where traditional promoters changed activity, and used to drive functional transgenes in astrocytes including Cre recombinase and acetylcholine-responsive sensor iAChSnFR. The astrocyte-specific iAChSnFR revealed a clear reward-dependent acetylcholine response in astrocytes of the nucleus accumbens during reinforcement learning. Together, this collection of glial enhancer-AAVs will enable characterization of astrocyte and oligodendrocyte populations and their roles across species, disease states, and behavioral epochs.
Cytogenetic resource enables mechanistic resolution of changing trends in human pluripotent stem cell aberrations linked to feeder-free culture
Authors: Stavish Dylan , Price Christopher J. , Gelezauskaite Gabriele , Leonhard Kimberly A. , Taapken Seth M. , McIntire Erik M. , Laing Owen , James Bethany M. , Riley Jack J. , Zerbib Johanna , Baker Duncan , Harding Amy L. , Jestice Lydia H. , Eleveld Thomas F. , Gillis Ad J.M. , Hillenius Sanne , Looijenga Leendert H.J. , Gokhale Paul J. , Ben-David Uri , Ludwig Tenneille E. , Barbaric Ivana
Published: September 2023

Since the first derivation of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), the number of culture conditions has steadily increased, making hPSC culture more facile. Nonetheless, there remains the persistent issue of culture-acquired genetic changes, hampering the reproducibility of hPSC research and jeopardising their clinical use. Here, we utilised comprehensive karyotyping datasets from over 20,000 hPSC cultures sampled under different conditions to ascertain association of genetic changes with specific culture regimens. We found condition-dependent patterns of aberrations, with higher prevalence of chromosome 1q gains in recent years, associated with increased use of contemporary, feeder-free cultures. Mechanistically, we show the context-dependent selection of 1q variants is mainly driven byMDM4, a gene amplified in many cancers, located on chromosome 1q. To facilitate reproducibility of hPSC research and their safe clinical utility, we provide a unique hPSC karyotype resource for informing the risk assessment of genetic aberrations and developing strategies to suppress their occurrence.
FUKG: answering flexible queries over knowledge graphs
Authors: Yagüe José Félix , Huitzil Ignacio , Bobed Carlos , Bobillo Fernando
Published: September 2023

Purpose

There is an increasing interest in the use of knowledge graphs to represent real-world knowledge and a common need to manage imprecise knowledge in many real-world applications. This paper aims to study approaches to solve flexible queries over knowledge graphs.

Design/methodology/approach

By introducing fuzzy logic in the query answering process, the authors are able to obtain a novel algorithm to solve flexible queries over knowledge graphs. This approach is implemented in the FUzzy Knowledge Graphs system, a software tool with an intuitive user-graphical interface.

Findings

This approach makes it possible to reuse semantic web standards (RDF, SPARQL and OWL 2) and builds a fuzzy layer on top of them. The application to a use case shows that the system can aggregate information in different ways by selecting different fusion operators and adapting to different user needs.

Originality/value

This approach is more general than similar previous works in the literature and provides a specific way to represent the flexible restrictions (using fuzzy OWL 2 datatypes).
Understanding tourists' environmentally responsible behaviour: environmental citizenship behaviour as an antecedent and trust in destination's local government as a moderator
Authors: Candan Buket , Dölarslan Emre Şahin
Published: September 2023

Purpose

Tourists' environmentally responsible behaviour (ERB) is very important for the environmental sustainability of popular tourist destinations. The main purpose of this research paper is to explore the relationship between environmental citizenship behaviour (ECB) and trust in local government with ERB.

Design/methodology/approach

A theoretical model was proposed and tested. Data were collected from domestic tourists (n = 555) visiting Antalya, on the Mediterranean coast of Turkey.

Findings

The results show that all dimensions of ECB (helping, engagement and initiatives) have a positive effect on the formation of ERB among domestic tourists. The results also show that trust in the local government of the destination has a moderating effect on the relationship between the two dimensions of ECB (engagement and initiatives) and ERB. The helping dimension of ECB has the highest positive impact factor on ERB. The results provide a comprehensive framework for further research. The proposed model is strongly supported by the findings.

Practical implications

Local policy makers can focus on how to increase the environmental motivation of domestic tourists. Environmentally friendly projects can be developed to attract their attention. This will ensure that they take more responsibility for the environment at the destination.

Originality/value

Understanding the potential impact of local government on tourist behaviour is crucial for sustainability. However, there are few studies that directly examine the moderating effect of trust in local government on the relationship between ECB and ERB. This study addresses this gap and makes novel contributions to the relevant literature.
Revisiting the impact of geopolitical risk on Sukuk, stocks, oil and gold markets during the crises period: fresh evidence from wavelet-based approach
Authors: Raza Rabbani Mustafa , Hassan M. Kabir , Jamil Syed Ahsan , Sahabuddin Mohammad , Shaik Muneer
Published: September 2023

Purpose

In this study, the authors analyze the impact of geopolitics risk on Sukuk, Islamic and composite stocks, oil and gold markets and portfolio diversification implications during the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia–Ukraine conflict period.

Design/methodology/approach

The study used a mix of wavelet-based approaches, including continuous wavelet transformation and discrete wavelet transformation. The analysis used data from the Geopolitical Risk index (GP{R), Dow Jones Sukuk index (SUKUK), Dow Jones Islamic index (DJII), Dow Jones composite index (DJCI), one of the top crude oil benchmarks which is based on the Europe (BRENT) (oil fields in the North Sea between the Shetland Island and Norway), and Global Gold Price Index (gold) from May 31, 2012, to June 13, 2022.

Findings

The results of the study indicate that during the COVID-19 and Russia–Ukraine conflict period geopolitical risk (GPR) was in the leading position, where BRENT confirmed the lagging relationship. On the other hand, during the COVID-19 pandemic period, SUKUK, DJII and DJCI are in the leading position, where GPR confirms the lagging position.

Originality/value

The present study is unique in three respects. First, the authors revisit the influence of GPR on global asset markets such as Islamic stocks, Islamic bonds, conventional stocks, oil and gold. Second, the authors use the wavelet power spectrum and coherence analysis to determine the level of reliance based on time and frequency features. Third, the authors conduct an empirical study that includes recent endogenous shocks generated by health crises such as the COVID-19 epidemic, as well as shocks caused by the geopolitical danger of a war between Russia and Ukraine.

Highlights

We analyze the impact of geopolitics risk on Sukuk, Islamic and composite stocks, oil and gold markets and portfolio diversification implications during the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia–Ukraine conflict period.

The results of the wavelet-based approach show that Dow Jones composite and Islamic indexes have observed the highest mean return during the study period.

GPR and BRENT are estimated to have the highest amount of risk throughout the observation period.

Dow Jones Sukuk, Islamic and composite stock show similar trend of volatility during the COVID-19 pandemic period and comparatively gold observes lower variance during the COVID-19 pandemic and Russia–Ukraine conflict.
Surgery after sonidegib treatment achieves complete response in locally advanced basal cell carcinoma of the face
Authors: Paradisi A. , Piccerillo A. , Bocchino E. , Cappilli S. , Ricci C. , Di Stefani A. , Peris K.
Published: September 2023

Basal cell carcinoma accounts for 75% of skin cancers worldwide and is the most common malignancy in Caucasians. Since chronic ultraviolet exposure is the major risk factor for its development, sun‐exposed areas such as the face are frequently affected. The gold‐standard treatment is surgical excision. Radiotherapy may be considered in selected cases such as unresectable primary tumors. In some patients, when the risk of a significant functional/cosmetic deficit advises against both surgery and radiotherapy, target therapy (hedgehog pathway inhibitors) can be administered alone or in a neoadjuvant setting, to reduce the tumor size and make it eligible for surgery. Vismodegib as a neoadjuvant treatment before surgery has been investigated in a single, multicentre, open‐label, phase II trial (VISMONEO); however, sonidegib has not yet been evaluated in this setting. We report the cases of two patients with locally advanced basal cell carcinoma of the face who achieved complete remission with sonidegib followed by a more limited surgical excision than would have been needed without target therapy.
Contemporary differences in residential housing values along historic redlining boundaries
Authors: Joshi Aakrit , Horn Brady P. , Berrens Robert P.
Published: September 2023

Redlining refers to discriminatory lending practices based on the demographic composition of neighborhoods. The term is often attributed to boundaries drawn on maps by the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation (HOLC) in the 1930s to represent the perceived credit risk of neighborhoods. Combined with other discriminatory actions, redlining restricted access to mortgage financing for racial minorities, and areas subject to historic redlining practices still exhibit worse outcomes on various socio‐economic dimensions. This study examines contemporary differences in residential housing values along historic redlined boundaries. Boundary fixed effects models are constructed using contemporary property sale data for Seattle, WA and Richmond, VA from 2000 to 2018. Results indicate that properties inside a redlined boundary continue to sell at significantly discounted prices compared to houses across the redlined border. Further investigation, using historic data from the 1930s and 1940s, finds that there was also a large and significant historic difference in housing values across the redlined boundaries at that time, including before the advent of HOLC maps. This suggests that contemporary differences in housing values are likely not a direct effect of HOLC maps but rather depict the lingering effect of broader redlining and discriminatory practices that existed before the advent of these maps.
Serum immunoglobulin G level reduction is a predictor of short‐term improvement in patients with myasthenia gravis undergoing plasmapheresis
Authors: Konno Shingo , Fujioka Toshiki
Published: September 2023

Objectives

The aim of the study was to investigate the serological factors in predicting symptom improvement in myasthenia gravis (MG) patients who underwent plasmapheresis (PP).

Methods

The relationship between symptom improvement and change in immunoglobin G (IgG) and acetylcholine receptor antibody (AchR‐Ab) levels in 21 MG patients after PP was analyzed.

Results

Patients were divided into two groups: the favorable (n = 11) or unfavorable (n = 10) response groups around the median MG composite improvement rate (50 [29, 56]%) 2 weeks after a PP course. In all patients, the IgG reduction rate before and after PP was higher in the favorable than the unfavorable response group. In AChR‐Ab‐positive patients, IgG and AChR‐Ab reduction rates were higher in the favorable than the unfavorable response group.

Conclusion

IgG reduction rate is a predictor of symptom improvement in MG patients who underwent PP.
A modified CVaR‐based interval coordination model for economic benefit and pollutant discharge
Authors: Wang Faqiang , Fu Xiang , Liu Shuangjun
Published: September 2023

This paper proposes a modified conditional value‐at‐risk interval two‐stage stochastic programming coordination model (MCITSP) for water allocation and illustrates its advantages in risk aversion and pollution control. We analyze its performance in maintaining the equity of water use in various sectors, which is specifically reflected in the water satisfaction of multiple users. In this paper, the MCITSP model and original ITSP model are applied to the case of the Hanjiang River Basin, and three scenarios of water availability are set up to provide theoretical support for water allocation. Our results show that the MCITSP model with a higher risk coefficient has a stronger ability to avoid risks. The MCITSP model simultaneously controls pollutant discharge and guarantees economic benefits, making it superior to the ITSP model under different scenarios. Water shortages primarily affect the agricultural sector, due to its high water demand and low economic value, and the MCITSP model plays a positive role in maintaining equity and coordinating water conflicts among multiple users. Managers can choose appropriate model parameters according to their preferences to formulate more reasonable decisions.
Global Development Governance 2.0: Fractured accountabilities in a divided governance complex
Authors: Haug Sebastian , Taggart Jack
Published: September 2023

The proliferation of state and non‐state actors, along with increasing institutional complexity, has led to a qualitative shift in Global Development Governance (GDG) towards what we term ‘GDG 2.0’. Realising accountability in this context presents challenges due to growing actor diversity, institutional plurality and a lack of formalised accountability structures. Building on the introduction to this special section, we explore the potential of ‘forward‐looking’ approaches to accountability, notably collective deliberation, learning and competition. Despite the importance of these mechanisms for GDG processes, conceptualising them as accountability tools may have limited gains and indeed reinforce the preferences of established actors, dilute useful monitoring approaches and divert attention from longstanding agendas. We argue that prioritising enabling environments for more circumscribed ‘backward‐looking’ accountability—with a focus on standard‐setting and monitoring—may be more feasible and effective towards holding decision‐makers to account within the GDG 2.0 context.
Examining the validity of the drinking motives questionnaire for identifying reward and relief drinking subgroups in college students
Authors: Hebden H. M. , Votaw V. R. , Herchenroeder L. , Witkiewitz K. , Yeung E. W.
Published: September 2023

Background

Heavy alcohol use in college is associated with a risk of developing alcohol use disorder. Characterizing variability in individual risk factors for alcohol use could help mitigate risk by informing personalized approaches to prevention. This study examined the validity of a brief measure for identifying reward/relief drinking phenotypes in non‐treatment‐seeking young adults.

Methods

College students (n = 454) who reported binge drinking completed the Drinking Motives Questionnaire‐Revised‐Short Form (DMQ‐R‐SF). Confirmatory factor and latent profile analyses (CFA; LPA) of the DMQ‐R‐SF were performed to assess structural validity and identify reward/relief drinking subgroups. We compared models measuring reward drinking with the DMQ‐R‐SF enhancement motives (reward‐enhancement) subscale to models measuring reward drinking with enhancement and social motives (reward‐enhancement/social). Across models, relief drinking was measured with coping motives. We examined associations between reward/relief drinking subgroups and alcohol and personality variables concurrently and prospectively at a 6‐week follow‐up.

Results

A two‐factor reward and relief structure of the DMQ‐R‐SF was supported. Three latent profiles were identified (low reward/low relief: n = 133, high reward/low relief: n = 249; high reward/high relief: n = 72). Both CFA and LPA models that utilized reward‐enhancement/social items indicated a better fit than reward‐enhancement items alone. At baseline, individuals in the high‐reward/high‐relief profile demonstrated the poorest alcohol use outcomes and higher negative affect. Those in the high‐reward/low‐relief profile demonstrated greater alcohol use severity than those in the low‐reward/low‐relief profile. Prospectively, individuals classified in the high‐reward/low‐relief subgroup reported greater binge drinking frequency and those in the high‐reward/high‐relief profile reported greater alcohol consequences.

Conclusions

The DMQ‐R‐SF is a valid measure for identifying reward and relief drinking subgroups in college students with binge drinking and could have utility for precision prevention efforts that target individuals in the high‐reward/low‐relief and high‐reward/high‐relief subgroups.
Association between glycemic control and group B streptococcus colonization among pregnant individuals with pregestational diabetes
Authors: Field Christine , Bank T. Caroline , Spees Colleen K. , Germann Katherine , Landon Mark B. , Gabbe Steven , Grobman William A , Costantine Maged M , Venkatesh Kartik K.
Published: September 2023

Problem

Pregestational diabetes increases the risk of group B streptococcus (GBS) colonization in pregnancy. Whether glycemic control is associated with differences in this risk is unknown. We examined the association between glycemic control and GBS colonization among pregnant individuals with pregestational diabetes.

Method of study

A retrospective cohort of pregnant individuals with pregestational diabetes at a tertiary care center. The exposure was glycemic control, measured as hemoglobin A1c (A1c) at >20 weeks and assessed categorically at thresholds of <6.5% and <6.0%, and secondarily, as a continuous percentage. The outcome was maternal GBS colonization. Multivariable logistic regression was used and adjusted for age, parity, race, and ethnicity as a social determinant, body mass index, type of diabetes, and gestational age at A1c assessment.

Results

Among 305 individuals (33% Type 1, 67% type 2), 45.0% (n = 140) were colonized with GBS. Individuals with an A1c < 6.5% were half as likely to be colonized with GBS compared with those with a A1c ≥ 6.5% (38.8% vs. 53.9%; adjusted odds ratio, AOR: 0.55; 95% CI: 0.33–0.91). Results were unchanged at an A1c threshold of <6.0% (35.7% vs. 48.5%; AOR: 0.60; 95% CI: 0.36–0.98). Individuals with a higher A1c as a continuous measure (%) were more likely to be colonized (AOR: 1.57 per 1%; 95% CI: 1.25–1.97).

Conclusions

Pregnant individuals with pregestational diabetes with worse glycemic control were at an increased risk of GBS colonization. Further study is needed to understand if improved glycemic control leads to lower risk of GBS colonization.
BSV163/DOPE‐mediated TRAIL gene transfection acts synergistically with chemotherapy against cisplatin‐resistant ovarian cancer
Authors: Nguyen Quoc Manh , Dupré Pierre‐François , Berchel Mathieu , Ghanem Rosy , Jaffrès Paul‐Alain , d'Arbonneau Frédérique , Montier Tristan
Published: September 2023

Ovarian cancer is the seventh most frequently diagnosed cancer among women worldwide. Most patients experience recurrence and succumb eventually to resistant disease, underscoring the need for an alternative treatment option. In the presented manuscript, we investigated the effect of the TRAIL‐gene, transfected by an innovative bioinspired lipid vector BSV163/DOPE in the presence or absence of cisplatin, to fight against sensitive and resistant ovarian cancer. We showed that BSV163/DOPE can transfect ovarian cancer cell lines (Caov3, OVCAR3, and our new cisplatin‐resistant, CR‐Caov3) safely and efficiently. In addition, TRAIL‐gene transfection in association with cisplatin inhibited cellular growth more efficiently (nearly 50% in Caov3 cells after the combined treatment, and 15% or 25% by each treatment alone, respectively) owing to an increase in apoptosis rate, caspases activity and TRAIL's death receptors expression. Most importantly, such synergistic effect was also observed in CR‐Caov3 cells demonstrated by an apoptosis rate of 35% following the combined treatment in comparison with 17% after TRAIL‐gene transfection or 6% after cisplatin exposition. These results suggest this combination may have potential application for sensitive as well as refractory ovarian cancer patients.
Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms in a paediatric population: Interest of skin tests
Authors: Ben Romdhane Haifa , Fadhel Najah Ben , Chadli Zohra , Chaabane Amel , Benzarti Wiem , Fredj Nadia Ben , Aouam Karim
Published: September 2023

Background

Drug reaction with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) is a severe adverse drug reaction. It is uncommon in the paediatric population and can be difficult to diagnose as its initial symptoms may mimic a viral infection.

Objective

To analyse the features of paediatric DRESS and to evaluate the interest of skin tests in identifying the causative drugs.

Methods

It is a retrospective analysis (2004–2021) of DRESS cases diagnosed in paediatric patients. The DRESS diagnosis was defined using the RegiSCAR scoring. The skin tests were performed according to the ENDA recommendations.

Results

We included 19 cases of DRESS occurred in 18 patients. Common clinical symptoms were exanthema and fever in 94.7% of cases each. The most commonly affected organ was the liver (84.2%). Among the implicated drugs, 16 were tested and skin tests were positive in 75%. To assess cross‐reactivity and co‐sensitization, skin tests with related and/or co‐administered drugs were performed in eight patients. Among them, only one child had positive results.

Conclusion

Early diagnosis of DRESS and discontinuation of the incriminated drug might reduce the incidence of mortality in the paediatric population. Skin tests could be a safe and useful tool to identify the causative drug and assess cross‐reactivity.
AFF4 regulates osteogenic potential of human periodontal ligament stem cells via mTOR‐ULK1‐autophagy axis
Authors: Zhu Li , Wang Jiahe , Wu Zuping , Chen Sirui , He Yuying , Jiang Yukun , Luo Guowen , Wu Zhuoxuan , Li Yuyu , Xie Jing , Zou Shujuan , Zhou Chenchen
Published: September 2023

Scaffold protein AF4/FMR2 family member 4 (AFF4) has been found to play a role in osteogenic commitment of stem cells. However, function of AFF4 in human periodontal ligament stem cells (hPDLSCs) has not been studied yet. This present study aims to investigate the biological effect of AFF4 on osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs and potential mechanistic pathway. First, AFF4 expression profile was evaluated in conditions of periodontitis and osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs by immunohistochemical staining, western blot and qRT‐PCR. Next, si‐RNA mediated knockdown and lentiviral transduction mediated overexpression of AFF4 were adopted to explore impact of AFF4 on osteogenic capacity of hPDLSCs. Then, possible mechanistic pathway was identified. At last, pharmacological agonist of autophagy, rapamycin, was utilized to affirm the role of autophagy in AFF4‐regulated osteogenesis of hPDLSCs. First, AFF4 expressions were significantly lower in inflamed periodontal tissues and lipopolysaccharides‐treated hPDLSCs than controls, and were up‐regulated during osteogenic differentiation of hPDLSCs. Next, osteogenic potential of hPDLSCs was impaired by AFF4 knockdown and potentiated by AFF4 overexpression. Moreover, AFF4 was found to positively regulate autophagic activity in hPDLSCs. At last, rapamycin treatment was shown to be able to partly restore AFF4 knockdown‐suppressed osteogenic differentiation. Our study demonstrates that AFF4 regulates osteogenic potential of hPDLSCs via targeting autophagic activity. The involvement of AFF4 in periodontal homeostasis was identified for the first time.
Seek and you shall find—news on the quest for novel PET‐degrading enzymes
Authors: Faber Anna , Fritz Georg
Published: September 2023

Plastic‐degrading enzymes hold immense potential for eco‐friendly recycling methods. However, the catalytic rates of current enzymes do not stack up against the mammoth task of degrading millions of tons of plastic waste per year. In the quest for more efficient polyethylene terephthalate (PET)‐degrading enzymes, Zhang et al. report the discovery and characterization of PET40, a versatile PET‐hydrolyzing esterase that is divergent from most characterized PETases. While PET40 has comparably low hydrolytic activity on PET, Zhang et al. demonstrate its broad activity on an expanded substrate pool. This sheds light on the potential ecological role of these esterases and suggests that PET might be only a recent addition to their substrate spectrum.
Direct and indirect estimates of dispersal support strong juvenile philopatry and male‐biased dispersal in a freshwater turtle species (Emys orbicularis)
Authors: Fay Rémi , Ficheux Sébastien , Béchet Arnaud , Besnard Aurélien , Crochet Pierre‐André , Leblois Raphaël , Crivelli Alain , Wattier Rémi , Olivier Anthony
Published: September 2023

Dispersal has major impacts on population dynamics, population genetics and evolution, and also is critical for population management and conservation. Dispersal is frequently sex‐ and age‐specific, but current knowledge is strongly taxonomically biased toward birds and mammals.

Here, we provide estimates of dispersal in a threatened freshwater turtle species, the European pond turtle Emys orbicularis. Based on 15 years of capture‐mark‐recapture (CMR) monitoring and DNA samples from 194 individuals, we quantified both demographic and genetic dispersal between three sites separated by 1.5–3.5 km. We also investigated the effect of age and sex on dispersal.

Direct (CMR) and indirect (genetic) approaches provided consistent results, showing that the studied sites are connected with a flow of about one to three dozen migrants per generation. Dispersal was both age‐ and sex‐biased in this species, with frequent dispersal of adult males and a strong philopatry of juveniles (of both sexes) and adult females.

The network of canals and marshes allow effective dispersal to occur among the three study sites despite the relatively large distance separating them (≤3.5 km).

The strong philopatry of juveniles contrasts with the frequently higher dispersal rate in young birds and mammals and shows the relevance of investigating dispersal in various taxonomic groups. Our results provide useful information for the conservation of European pond turtle populations.