bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Haemophilia in the era of novel therapies: Where do inhibitors feature in the new landscape?
Authors: Meeks Shannon L. , Zimowski Karen L.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The advent of therapeutic recombinant factor VIII (FVIII) and factor IX (FIX) protein infusions revolutionized the care of persons with haemophilia in the 1990s. It kicked off an era with the increasing use of prophylactic factor infusions for patients and transformed conversations around the ideal trough activity levels as well as the ultimate goals in tailored, individualized care. Our knowledge surrounding the immunologic basis of inhibitor development and treatment derives from a time when patients were receiving frequent factor infusions and focused on immune tolerance induction following inhibitor development.

Discussion

More recently, care was revolutionized again in haemophilia A with the approval of emicizumab, a bispecific antibody mimicking activated FVIII function, to prevent bleeding. The use of emicizumab prophylaxis has resulted in a significantly slower accumulation of factor exposure days and continued effective prophylaxis in the case of inhibitor development. While emicizumab is effective at reducing the frequency of bleeding events in patients with haemophilia A, management of breakthrough bleeds, trauma, and surgeries still requires additional treatment. Ensuring that FVIII is a therapeutic option, particularly for life‐threatening bleeding events and major surgeries is critical to optimizing the care of persons with haemophilia A. Other novel non‐factor concentrate therapies, including rebalancing agents, will dramatically change the landscape for persons with haemophilia B with inhibitors.

Conclusion

This review discusses the changing landscape regarding the timing of inhibitor development and management strategies after inhibitor development, stressing the importance of education across the community to continue to vigilantly monitor for inhibitors and be prepared to treat persons with inhibitors.
Value of autotaxin for hepatocellular carcinoma risk assessment in chronic hepatitis B patients treated with nucleos(t)ide analogs
Authors: Hiyama Yuichi , Fujino Hatsue , Namba Maiko , Fujii Yasutoshi , Uchikawa Shinsuke , Ono Atsushi , Nakahara Takashi , Murakami Eisuke , Kawaoka Tomokazu , Miki Daiki , Tsuge Masataka , Oka Shiro
Published: March 2024

Aim

Autotaxin (ATX) is a newly identified liver fibrosis biomarker; however, its clinical usefulness remains unclear. Therefore, we analyzed the changes in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection treated with nucleos(t)ide analogs (NAs) to evaluate its usefulness. We also investigated the predictors of hepatocellular carcinoma development, including ATX, in patients with chronic hepatitis B based on their clinical characteristics.

Methods

This retrospective study included 179 patients with hepatitis B virus infection treated with NAs for >2 years. First, we measured the ATX levels before and up to 10 years after initiating entecavir (therapy for 88 patients whose serial ATX levels could be measured before and during entecavir therapy. Subsequently, for 179 patients whose ATX levels could be measured at the commencement of NAs, we examined the factors involved in developing hepatocellular carcinoma, including ATX.

Results

The ATX levels showed a gradual and significant decrease during the observation period of up to 10 years. Multivariable analysis showed that a baseline ATX/upper limits of normal ratio ≥1.214, age, and alkaline phosphatase levels were independent risk factors for hepatocellular carcinoma development. The combination of age and ATX/upper limits of normal ratio was used to stratify the high‐risk groups for liver carcinogenesis.

Conclusions

A decrease in ATX levels up to 10 years after the commencement of therapy suggested that ATX is a helpful biomarker in evaluating fibrosis in patients undergoing long‐term NA therapy. Furthermore, this study showed that combining age and the baseline ATX/upper limits of normal ratio may help identify high‐risk carcinogenesis groups.
Real‐world efficacy of 2% crisaborole ointment on chronic hyperplasia lesions in 49 patients with atopic dermatitis
Authors: Ma Chuan , Sun Jiachen , Liu Zilian , Zhang Chunlei
Published: March 2024

Background

Crisaborole, as a phosphodiesterase 4 (PDE4) inhibitor (PDE4i), effectively inhibits inflammatory pathways, showing promising results in atopic dermatitis (AD), particularly in chronic hyperplasia lesions.

Objectives

Based on real‐world data from China, this study assesses the effectiveness and safety of 2% PDE4i ointment as monotherapy for chronic hyperplastic AD lesions.

Materials and methods

A total of 49 AD patients aged 12 and above with chronic hyperplastic lesions and Investigator's Static Global Assessment scores of mild or moderate were enrolled. They received 2% PDE4i ointment twice daily until the lesions completely cleared. The effectiveness endpoints comprised the onset time of pruritus and lesion remission and the time of complete lesion clearance.

Results

PDE4i demonstrated high effectiveness with minimal irritation, notable improvement in hyperpigmentation, and early remission of pruritus and lesions. The response varied across age groups; elderly patients experienced quicker pruritus relief compared to adolescents and adults, while adolescents showed earlier lesion remission by about 3 days. No significant difference was observed across age groups in the time for complete lesion clearance. Additionally, AD duration (less or more than 3 years) did not significantly impact pruritus or lesion remission.

Conclusions

PDE4i monotherapy is effective and safe for chronic hyperplasia lesions in AD across all age groups, and its effectiveness appears to be independent of AD duration.
Mechanism of programmed cell death in the posterior silk gland of the silkworm, Bombyx mori, during pupation based on Ca2+ homeostasis
Authors: Gu Haoyi , Zou Hongbin , Cheng Jialu , Liu Xiaohan , Jiang Zhe , Peng Peilin , Li Fanchi , Li Bing
Published: March 2024

The silkworm, Bombyx mori, is a complete metamorphosed economic insect, and the silk gland is a significant organ for silk protein synthesis and secretion. The silk gland completely degenerates during pupation, but the regulatory mechanism of programmed cell death (PCD) has not yet been understood. In the present study, we investigated the non‐genetic pathway of 20E‐induced PCD in the posterior silk gland (PSG) based on intracellular Ca2+ levels. Silk gland morphology and silk gland index indicated rapid degeneration of silk gland during metamorphosis from mature silkworm (MS) to pupal day 1 (P1), and Ca2+ levels within the PSG were found to peak during the pre‐pupal day 1 (PP1) stage. Moreover, the results of autophagy and apoptosis levels within the PSG showed that autophagy was significantly increased in MS‐PP1 periods, and significantly decreased in PP2 and P1 periods. Apoptosis was almost absent in MS‐PP1 periods and significantly increased in PP2 and P1 periods. Additionally, western blotting results showed that autophagy preceded apoptosis, and the autophagy‐promoting ATG5 was cleaved by calpain to the autophagy‐inhibiting and apoptosis‐promoting NtATG5 since PP1 period, while decreased autophagy was accompanied by increased apoptosis. Collectively, these findings suggest that Ca2+ is a key factor in the shift from autophagy to apoptosis.
GLP‐1 receptor agonists alleviate colonic inflammation by modulating intestinal microbiota and the function of group 3 innate lymphoid cells
Authors: Sun Hanxiao , Shu Jie , Tang Jupei , Li Yue , Qiu Jinxin , Ding Zhaoyun , Xuan Binbin , Chen Minghui , Gan Chenxin , Lin Jinpiao , Qiu Ju , Sheng Huiming , Wang Chuanxin
Published: March 2024

Glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists (GLP‐1RAs), which are drugs used for treating type 2 diabetes, have been reported to exert anti‐inflammatory effects on inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), the mechanism of which remains elusive. Here, we report that GLP‐1RAs ameliorate dextran sulfate sodium (DSS)‐induced colitis in both wild‐type and T/B‐cell‐deficient mice through modulating group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s), a subset of innate lymphoid cells that regulate intestinal immunity. GLP‐1RAs promote IL‐22 production by ILC3, and the protective effect of GLP‐1RAs on DSS‐induced colitis was abrogated in ILC3‐deficient RORgtgfp/gfp mice. Furthermore, the treatment effect of GLP‐RAs on colitis, as well as the generation of IL‐22‐producing ILC3s by GLP‐RAs, is dependent on the gut microbiota. GLP‐1RAs increase the abundance of Firmicutes and Proteobacteria in the gut, particularly beneficial bacteria such as Lactobacillus reuteri, and decrease the abundance of enteropathogenic Staphylococcus bacteria. The untargeted gas chromatography (GC)/liquid chromatography (LC)‐mass spectrometry (MS) of faecal metabolites further revealed enrichment of N,N‐dimethylsphingosine (DMS), an endogenous metabolite derived from sphingosine, in the GLP‐1RA‐treated group. Strikingly, DMS ameliorates colitis while promoting intestinal IL‐22‐producing ILC3s. Taken together, our findings show that GLP‐1RAs exert a therapeutic effect on colitis possibly by regulating the microbiota‐DMS‐IL‐22+ILC3 axis, highlighting the potential beneficial role of GLP‐RAs in inflammatory intestinal disorders with diabetes complications.
RETRACTED: Risk factors for amputation in diabetic foot ulcers: A retrospective analysis
Authors: Zhang Xiaoyu , Li Qiwei , Zhou Xianpei , Xu Yu , Shu Zizhen , Deng Hongyu
Published: March 2024

Diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) are chronic, difficult‐to‐heal wounds with a very high incidence of amputation. For patients with DFUs, prevention of amputation is crucial. However, the risk factors associated with DFU amputation and the extent to which different risk factors increase the risk of amputation are still uncertain. This study intends to provide a clinical basis for early intervention in DFU by retrospectively analysing the risk factors for DFU amputation. A retrospective analysis of 200 patients with DFUs admitted between October 2019 and October 2023 was conducted. Sixty‐eight of the 200 underwent amputations. The overall amputation rate was 34%. Multiple logistic regression model showed that neutrophil/lymphocyte ratio (OR = 1.943; 95% CI:1.826–2.139), white blood cell (OR = 1.143; 95% CI:1.034–1.267), C‐reactive protein (OR = 1.307; 95% CI:1.113–2.194) and Wagner grading (OR = 2.783; 95% CI: 1.751–4.302) were independent risk factors for amputation, while haemoglobin (OR = 0.742; 95% CI:0.638–0.965) and high density lipoprotein were independent protective factors for amputation (OR = 0.168; 95% CI:0.037–0.716), and further Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve curves showed that they showed high accuracy and were good predictors of amputation of DFUs.
Clinical efficacy and safety of composite non‐cross‐linked hyaluronic acid for treating tear trough‐lower eyelid bag deformity
Authors: Zhou Xiaomei , Yi Yan , Liu Zeming , Zhang Qi , Wu Yiping , Luo Xiao
Published: March 2024

Background

Tear trough‐eye bag deformities may appear in young Asian patients due to the weak support of their facial skeletons. For these patients with better periorbital skin elasticity, the injection may be more suitable than surgery for treating tear trough‐lower eyelid bag deformity.

Aims

Identify the clinical efficacy and safety of non‐cross‐linked HA in the treatment of tear trough‐lower eyelid bag deformity.

Methods

In this study, we analyzed pre‐ and postinjection photographs of 55 patients treated with non‐cross‐linked hyaluronic acid (HA) for tear trough‐lower eyelid bag deformity.

Results

The mean [SD] scores of modified Goldberg score suggested that the most significant improvement of preoperative and postoperative scores was in tear trough depression, followed by infraorbital triangular depression, orbital fat prolapse, loss of skin elasticity, and skin transparency. Only transient localized complications were observed, including bruising, swelling, and erythema. There were no serious complications, such as skin necrosis or visual impairment.

Conclusions

Our study confirmed the beneficial efficacy and minor complications of composite non‐cross‐linked HA for the treatment of tear trough‐lower eyelid bag deformity.
Current understanding of the pathogenesis of placenta accreta spectrum disorder with focus on mitochondrial function
Authors: Kobayashi Hiroshi , Matsubara Sho , Yoshimoto Chiharu , Shigetomi Hiroshi , Imanaka Shogo
Published: March 2024

Aim

The refinement of assisted reproductive technology, including the development of cryopreservation techniques (vitrification) and ovarian stimulation protocols, makes frozen embryo transfer (FET) an alternative to fresh ET and has contributed to the success of assisted reproductive technology. Compared with fresh ET cycles, FET cycles were associated with better in vitro fertilization outcomes; however, the occurrence of pregnancy‐induced hypertension, preeclampsia, and placenta accreta spectrum (PAS) was higher in FET cycles. PAS has been increasing steadily in incidence as a life‐threatening condition along with cesarean rates worldwide. In this review, we summarize the current understanding of the pathogenesis of PAS and discuss future research directions.

Methods

A literature search was performed in the PubMed and Google Scholar databases.

Results

Risk factors associated with PAS incidence include a primary defect of the decidua basalis or scar dehiscence, aberrant vascular remodeling, and abnormally invasive trophoblasts, or a combination thereof. Freezing, thawing, and hormone replacement manipulations have been shown to affect multiple cellular pathways, including cell proliferation, invasion, epithelial‐to‐mesenchymal transition (EMT), and mitochondrial function. Molecules involved in abnormal migration and EMT of extravillous trophoblast cells are beginning to be identified in PAS placentas. Many of these molecules were also found to be involved in mitochondrial biogenesis and dynamics.

Conclusion

The etiology of PAS may be a multifactorial genesis with intrinsic predisposition (e.g., placental abnormalities) and certain environmental factors (e.g., defective decidua) as triggers for its development. A distinctive feature of this review is its focus on the potential factors linking mitochondrial function to PAS development.
Downstream Cross‐Holdings and Upstream R&D: A Comment*
Authors: Jin Yake , Mukherjee Arijit , Zeng Chenhang
Published: March 2024

According to Hu et al. [Journal of Industrial Economics, 70(3), pp. 775–789], downstream cross‐holdings are permissible based on the social welfare standard if the investment technology in the upstream sector is highly inefficient. However, the conclusion of that paper relies on a definition of downstream producer surplus that is not so commonly found in the literature. After using a more commonly found definition of downstream producer surplus, this note demonstrates that downstream cross‐holdings have detrimental impacts on both consumer surplus and social welfare, emphasizing the need for efficient and effective regulations on downstream cross‐holdings in Hu et al. [Journal of Industrial Economics, 70(3), pp. 775–789] type economy.
The near‐complete genome assembly of Reynoutria multiflora reveals the genetic basis of stilbene and anthraquinone biosynthesis
Authors: He Qiang , Miao Yuqing , Zheng Xinyuan , Wang Yaru , Wang Yitao , Jia Zheng , Zhang Hongyu , Wang Yu , Xiao Yao , Du Cailian , Li Wei , Xing Longsheng , Du Huilong
Published: March 2024

Reynoutria multiflora is a widely used medicinal plant in China. Its medicinal compounds are mainly stilbenes and anthraquinones which possess important pharmacological activities in anti‐aging, anti‐inflammatory and anti‐oxidation, but their biosynthetic pathways are still largely unresolved. Here, we reported a near‐complete genome assembly of R. multiflora consisting of 1.39 Gb with a contig N50 of 122.91 Mb and only one gap left. Genome evolution analysis revealed that two recent bursts of long terminal repeats (LTRs) contributed significantly to the increased genome size of R. multiflora, and numerous large chromosome rearrangements were observed between R. multiflora and Fagopyrum tataricum genomes. Comparative genomics analysis revealed that a recent whole‐genome duplication specific to Polygonaceae led to a significant expansion of gene families associated with disease tolerance and the biosynthesis of stilbenes and anthraquinones in R. multiflora. Combining transcriptomic and metabolomic analyses, we elucidated the molecular mechanisms underlying the dynamic changes in content of medicinal ingredients in R. multiflora roots across different growth years. Additionally, we identified several putative key genes responsible for anthraquinone and stilbene biosynthesis. We identified a stilbene synthase gene PM0G05131 highly expressed in roost, which may exhibit an important role in the accumulation of stilbenes in R. multiflora. These genomic data will expedite the discovery of anthraquinone and stilbenes biosynthesis pathways in medicinal plants.
Comparative disposition kinetics of oral deracoxib in sheep and goats
Authors: Fadel Charbel , Łebkowska‐Wieruszewska Beata , Lisowski Andrzej , Serih Firas , Poapolathep Amnart , Giorgi Mario
Published: March 2024

This study investigates the pharmacokinetics (PK) of deracoxib (DX), a selective COX‐2 inhibitor, in sheep and goats following a single oral dose. DX, approved for dogs, holds potential as an alternative NSAID in small ruminants, particularly in light of heightened concern regarding abomasal ulceration. The study employed an oral administration of DX at a dose of 150 mg/head (sheep and goats), and plasma concentrations were determined after validating a high‐performance liquid chromatography method, coupled to a UV detector. The PK parameters, including maximum plasma concentration (C
max), time to reach C
max (T
max), elimination half‐life (t
1/2), and area under the curve (AUC), were evaluated through non‐compartmental analysis. Results showed detectable DX in plasma up to 48 h, with no observed adverse effects. No significant differences in any PK parameters were noted between sheep and goats. Notably, t
1/2 values were relatively long, at 16.66 h for sheep and 22.86 h for goats. Despite the fact that both species exhibited comparable drug exposure, high individual variability was noted within each species, suggesting to take into account individual variations in response to DX treatment, rather than species‐specific considerations. Additional research involving pharmacodynamics and multiple‐dose studies is warranted to comprehensively assess the profile of DX in these species.
The predictive value of confusion assessment method‐intensive care unit and intensive care delirium screening checklist for delirium in critically ill patients in the intensive care unit: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Diao Yujie , Yu Xiaomin , Zhang Qin , Chen Xiaoli
Published: March 2024

Background

Approximately 16%–89% of patients developed delirium during hospitalization in the intensive care unit (ICU). Studies on the accuracy and clinical application of ICU delirium screening tools exist, but the results are inconsistent. Moreover, the accuracy of different screening tools varied greatly.

Aim

To compare the diagnostic accuracy of Confusion Assessment Method‐Intensive Care Unit (CAM‐ICU) and Intensive Care Delirium Screening Checklist (ICDSC) for delirium screening in critically ill patients in the ICU.

Study Design

We searched PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, Medline, and SciELO databases for relevant studies by combining relevant medical subject headings (MeSH) and keywords. Each database was searched from its creation to 30 January 2024. The included literature was screened by title, abstract, and full text. The diagnostic studies were summarized using Stata 14.0 software. SEN, SPE, PLR, NLR, DOR, and 95% confidence interval (CI) of the diagnostic studies were combined, the SROC analysis was performed, and the area under curve was estimated.

Results

Thirty‐two articles from the database met the inclusion criteria. The number of studies on CAM‐ICU and ICDSC was 28 and 14, respectively. For CAM‐ICU, the pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.81 (95% CI: 0.81–0.81) and 0.94 (95% CI: 0.94–0.94), and the hierarchical SROC curve was 0.96 (95% CI: 0.93–0.97). Regarding the ICDSC, The pooled sensitivity and specificity were 0.79 (95% CI: 0.68–0.86) and 0.90 (95% CI: 0.84–0.93), and the hierarchical SROC curve was 0.92 (95% CI: 0.89–0.94). Regarding the likelihood ratio, the CAM‐ICU has a high PLR of 14.24 (95% CI: 14.24–14.24) and a low NLR of 0.20 (95% CI: 0.20–0.20). The ICDSC has a low PLR of 7.64 (95% CI: 5.37–10.87) and a high NLR of 0.24 (95% CI: 0.16–0.35).

Conclusions

CAM‐ICU showed good performance in terms of screening and diagnostic efficacies for delirium in critically ill patients. In view of the diagnostic accuracy of these two tools in delirium assessment, the strategies on how to increase their implementation in delirium screening among ICU patients are the focus of future research.

Relevance for Clinical Practice

CAM‐ICU is recommended as the first choice to evaluate delirium in clinical practice, followed by ICDSC. Future studies can explore the predictive value of CAM‐ICU and ICDSC in different special populations and different types of delirium.
Roadmap for the next decade of plant programmed cell death research
Authors: Kacprzyk Joanna , Burke Rory , Armengot Laia , Coppola Marianna , Tattrie Sophie B. , Vahldick Hannah , Bassham Diane C. , Bosch Maurice , Brereton Nicholas J. B. , Cacas Jean‐Luc , Coll Núria S. , Gallois Patrick , Kuchitsu Kazuyuki , Nowack Moritz K. , Rogers Hilary J. , Van Breusegem Frank , Gunawardena Arunika H. L. A. N. , McCabe Paul F.
Published: March 2024

Programmed cell death (PCD) is fundamentally important for plant development, abiotic stress responses and immunity, but our understanding of its regulation remains fragmented. Building a stronger research community is required to accelerate progress in this area through knowledge exchange and constructive debate. In this Viewpoint, we aim to initiate a collective effort to integrate data across a diverse set of experimental models to facilitate characterisation of the fundamental mechanisms underlying plant PCD and ultimately aid the development of a new plant cell death classification system in the future. We also put forward our vision for the next decade of plant PCD research stemming from discussions held during the 31st New Phytologist workshop, ‘The Life and Death Decisions of Plant Cells’ that took place at University College Dublin in Ireland (14–15 June 2023). We convey the key areas of significant progress and possible future research directions identified, including resolving the spatiotemporal control of cell death, isolation of its molecular and genetic regulators, and harnessing technical advances for studying PCD events in plants. Further, we review the breadth of potential impacts of plant PCD research and highlight the promising new applications of findings from this dynamically evolving field.
End‐of‐day assessment of asymptomatic versus highly symptomatic soft contact lens wearers
Authors: Maldonado‐Codina Carole , Navascues‐Cornago Maria , Smith Sarah L. , Read Michael L. , Lakkis Carol , Morgan Philip B.
Published: March 2024

Purpose

To investigate differences in key clinical parameters between asymptomatic and highly symptomatic soft contact lens (CL) wearers after 14 h of wear.

Methods

In this pilot investigation, Phase 1 identified asymptomatic (CLDEQ‐8 score ≤ 7) and highly symptomatic (CLDEQ‐8 score ≥ 20) subjects after fitting with nelfilcon A CLs. Phase 2 investigated the following over a single nelfilcon A CL‐wearing day (14 ± 2 h): blinking characteristics, tear meniscus height (TMH), non‐invasive tear break‐up time (NIBUT), tear film osmolarity and eyelid margin staining. Parameters for the two groups were compared using linear mixed models and post‐hoc testing. The relationship between comfort scores and the clinical parameters was also investigated.

Results

Overall, 161 and 42 subjects were enrolled into Phase 1 and 2, respectively. Twenty‐five asymptomatic and 17 symptomatic subjects completed Phase 2. Lower eyelid TMH was decreased after 14 h in symptomatic compared with asymptomatic subjects (least square mean [LSM] difference −0.04 mm, 95% CI: −0.07, −0.01). Osmolarity was lower in symptomatic than in asymptomatic subjects at fitting (LSM difference −9.89, 95% CI: −18.91, −0.86). Upper eyelid margin staining was greater after 14 h in symptomatic than in asymptomatic subjects (LSM difference 0.53, 95% CI: 0.01, 1.05) and greater after 14 h than baseline in the symptomatic group (LSM difference 0.61, 95% CI: 0.16, 1.07). There was a significant relationship between comfort and upper eyelid margin staining (r = −0.40, 95% CI: −0.63, −0.11) and blink rate (r = −0.31, 95% CI: −0.57, −0.003).

Conclusion

The potential parameters most effective in differentiating asymptomatic from symptomatic wearers were upper eyelid margin staining and lower TMH. The parameter with the strongest relationship to comfort was upper eyelid margin staining, where higher comfort scores were associated with lower levels of staining.
Patient positioning and its impact on perioperative outcomes in children: A narrative review
Authors: Patterson Heather , Eady Jonathan , Sommerfield Aine , Sommerfield David , Hauser Neil , von Ungern‐Sternberg Britta S.
Published: March 2024

Patient positioning interacts with a number of body systems and can impact clinically important perioperative outcomes. In this educational review, we present the available evidence on the impact that patient positioning can have in the pediatric perioperative setting. A literature search was conducted using search terms that focused on pediatric perioperative outcomes prioritized by contemporary research in this area. Several key themes were identified: the effects of positioning on respiratory outcomes, cardiovascular outcomes, enteral function, patient and carer‐centered outcomes, and soft issue injuries. We encountered considerable heterogeneity in research in this area. There may be a role for lateral positioning to reduce respiratory adverse outcomes, head elevation for intubation and improved oxygenation, and upright positioning to reduce peri‐procedural anxiety.
Accuracy of cone‐beam computed tomography in imaging the components of the periodontal phenotype
Authors: Schulze Ralf , Couso‐Queiruga Emilio , Katsaros Christos
Published: March 2024

The components and dimensions of the periodontal and peri‐implant phenotype have a high relevance in contemporary dental research and should be taken into consideration in the decision‐making process in the management of a variety of clinical scenarios to optimize the outcomes of therapy. Various assessment methods for quantifying and classifying the phenotypical dimensions have emerged and developed in recent decades. Nevertheless, the use of cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT) scans remains the most commonly used approach worldwide. However, the accuracy to adequately imaging and measuring the dimensions of the hard and soft tissue components around teeth may represent a significant challenge in different clinical scenarios due to factors such as the age of the patient and motion during the scan, presence of metallic artifacts causing streaks and gray‐value distortion, overlapping of soft tissue structures, machine performance, file processing, and small voxel size among others. These factors pose a particular challenge when tiny structures are under investigation, for example, the buccal/lingual bony or soft tissue layer of lower/upper incisors. Therefore, this review addresses the underlying technical information of the use of CBCT scans, and suggests some recommendations on the utilization of this method of assessment to optimally use it despite its' system‐inherent limitations.
Demonstrating the effectiveness of open‐water wetlandscape restoration: lessons learned from South‐Eastern Europe
Authors: Ioana‐Toroimac Gabriela , Neculau Gianina , Stoica Cătălina , Șandor Ionuț Andrei , Constantin Dana Maria , Moroșanu Gabriela Adina
Published: March 2024

This paper evaluates the effectiveness of restoring open‐water area in a wetland via a geographical framework that goes from a general perspective to a detailed view. The methodology relies on diachronic cartography, remote sensing through Landsat satellite imagery validated by in situ hydrological data (2000–2022), and details from field work. We analyzed the water surface area of Comana freshwater marsh in Southern Romania. The water surface area recorded a statistical change point synchronous to the restoration actions. The water surface area increased due to restoration actions in 2011 and then became relatively stable. Post‐restoration, the mean monthly discharge of Neajlov River correlates statistically with the water surface area. The water has low depths in the marsh; yet, the area covered by vegetation appears to be stable. The persistence of the effects for over a decade recommends Comana Marsh as a demonstrative case study in South‐Eastern Europe and for further monitoring activities.
The effects of a combined physical activity and health education program on health knowledge and well‐being of socially vulnerable children
Authors: Møller Trine K. , Larsen Malte N. , Pfeffer Kristina , Frydenlund Sabrina Egelund , Ntoumanis Nikos , Krustrup Peter
Published: March 2024

The purpose of the present study was to evaluate the effects of the football‐based health education program “11 for Health” on health knowledge and well‐being in the setting of a 10‐week residential stay in a Danish charity home for socially vulnerable children. Six hundred and fourteen children participated in the study, of which 305 took part in the standard program plus “11 for Health” (SG+: 12.4 ± 1.4 (mean ± SD) years) and 309 took part in the standard program (SG: 12.4 ± 1.6 years). We used a crossover design over two full years. The study examined changes in health knowledge and well‐being through questionnaires. Overall health knowledge increased more in SG+ than SG over 10 weeks (6.6 vs. 3.4%, p < 0.05). The overall well‐being scores were markedly improved (p < 0.05) by 4.54 ± 7.17 AU in SG+ and 4.51 ± 7.16 AU in SG, with no between‐group differences. Specific improvements (p < 0.05) were seen in all well‐being subcategories, raising the well‐being scores to the national average. In conclusion, a 10‐week stay at a Danish charity home, the Christmas Seal Home, markedly affected health knowledge and well‐being of socially vulnerable children. When the football‐based health education program—11 for Health—was added, there were additional positive effects on health knowledge.
Effect of repeated prolonged exercise on liver fat content and visceral adipose tissue in well‐trained older men
Authors: Poggi Axel Illeris , Andreasen Martin Winther , Sahl Ronni Eg , Hansen Mikkel Thunestvedt , Rømer Tue , Frandsen Jacob , Linden Frederik Hvid , Høgh‐Schmidt Erik , Boesen Mikael Ploug , Ostrowski Sisse Rye , Larsen Steen , Dela Flemming , Helge Jørn Wulff
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Liver fat (LF) and visceral adipose tissue (VAT) content decreases with training, however, this has mainly been investigated in sedentary obese or healthy participants. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of repeated prolonged exercise on LF and VAT content in well‐trained older men and to compare baseline LF and VAT content to recreationally active older men.

Method

A group of five well‐trained older men were tested before and after cycling a total distance of 2558 km in 16 consecutive days. VAT content and body composition was measured using DXA before a bicycle ergometer test was performed to determine maximal fat oxidation (MFO), maximal oxygen consumption (), and the relative intensity at which MFO occurred (Fatmax). LF content was measured on a separate day using MRI. For comparison of baseline values, a control group of eight healthy age‐ and BMI‐matched recreationally active men were recruited.

Results

The well‐trained older men had lower VAT (p = 0.02), and a tendency toward lower LF content (p = 0.06) compared with the control group. The intervention resulted in decreased LF content (p = 0.02), but VAT, fat mass, and lean mass remained unchanged. , MFO, and Fatmax were not affected by the intervention.

Conclusion

The study found that repeated prolonged exercise reduced LF content, but VAT and remained unchanged. Aerobic capacity was aligned with lower LF and VAT in older active men.
Starting and sustaining fruitful collaborations in psychology
Authors: Park Lora E. , Aknin Lara B. , Gaither Sarah E. , Impett Emily A. , Whillans Ashley V.
Published: March 2024

Much of psychological science relies on collaboration—from generating new theories and study ideas, to collecting and analyzing data, to writing and sharing results with the broader community. Learning how to collaborate with others is an important skill, yet this process is not often explicitly discussed in academia. Here, five researchers from diverse backgrounds share their experiences and advice on starting and sustaining collaborations. In doing so, they reflect on aspects of both successful (and failed) collaborations with students, colleagues within and outside of psychology, and members of industry and organizational partners beyond academia. Recommendations and challenges of productive collaborations are discussed, along with examples of how collaborative teams can contribute to psychological science, address real‐world issues, and make the process of conducting research more enjoyable and rewarding.
Individual differences in interpersonal emotion regulation: What makes some people more (or less) successful than others?
Authors: Niven Karen , Hughes David J. , Tan J. Keane , Wickett Robin
Published: March 2024

People vary in the effectiveness with which they can change the way that others feel, yet we know surprisingly little about what drives these individual differences in interpersonal emotion regulation success. This paper provides a framework for describing ‘success’ in interpersonal emotion regulation and synthesizes extant theory and research regarding how personality and cognitive ability relate to interpersonal emotion regulation success. In doing so, our review brings together work from several related fields to offer an integrative framework to generate and guide future research that aims to understand why some people are proficient at influencing the emotions of others and why some are not, often suffering additional unintended consequences, such as diminished work or relationship success.
Leveraging deep neural networks to uncover unprecedented levels of precision in the diagnosis of hair and scalp disorders
Authors: Chowdhury Mohammad Sayem , Sultan Tofayet , Jahan Nusrat , Mridha Muhammad Firoz , Safran Mejdl , Alfarhood Sultan , Che Dunren
Published: March 2024

Background

Hair and scalp disorders present a significant challenge in dermatology due to their clinical diversity and overlapping symptoms, often leading to misdiagnoses. Traditional diagnostic methods rely heavily on clinical expertise and are limited by subjectivity and accessibility, necessitating more advanced and accessible diagnostic tools. Artificial intelligence (AI) and deep learning offer a promising solution for more accurate and efficient diagnosis.

Methods

The research employs a modified Xception model incorporating ReLU activation, dense layers, global average pooling, regularization and dropout layers. This deep learning approach is evaluated against existing models like VGG19, Inception, ResNet, and DenseNet for its efficacy in accurately diagnosing various hair and scalp disorders.

Results

The model achieved a 92% accuracy rate, significantly outperforming the comparative models, with accuracies ranging from 50% to 80%. Explainable AI techniques like Gradient‐weighted Class Activation Mapping (Grad‐CAM) and Saliency Map provided deeper insights into the model's decision‐making process.

Conclusion

This study emphasizes the potential of AI in dermatology, particularly in accurately diagnosing hair and scalp disorders. The superior accuracy and interpretability of the model represents a significant advancement in dermatological diagnostics, promising more reliable and accessible diagnostic methods.
On the entropy and information of Gaussian mixtures
Authors: Eskenazis Alexandros , Gavalakis Lampros
Published: March 2024

We establish several convexity properties for the entropy and Fisher information of mixtures of centred Gaussian distributions. Firstly, we prove that if are independent scalar Gaussian mixtures, then the entropy of is concave in , thus confirming a conjecture of Ball, Nayar and Tkocz (2016) for this class of random variables. In fact, we prove a generalisation of this assertion which also strengthens a result of Eskenazis, Nayar and Tkocz (2018). For the Fisher information, we extend a convexity result of Bobkov (2022) by showing that the Fisher information matrix is operator convex as a matrix‐valued function acting on densities of mixtures in . As an application, we establish rates for the convergence of the Fisher information matrix of the sum of weighted i.i.d. Gaussian mixtures in the operator norm along the central limit theorem under mild moment assumptions.
Artificial Intelligence for Thermal Energy Storage Enhancement: A Comprehensive Review
Authors: Chekifi Tawfiq , Boukraa Moustafa , Benmoussa Amine
Published: March 2024

Thermal energy storage (TES) plays a pivotal role in a wide array of energy systems, offering a highly effective means to harness renewable energy sources, trim energy consumption and costs, reduce environmental impact, and bolster the adaptability and dependability of power grids. Concurrently, artificial intelligence (AI) has risen in prominence for optimizing and fine-tuning TES systems. Various AI techniques, such as particle swarm optimization, artificial neural networks, support vector machines, and adaptive neurofuzzy inference systems, have been extensively explored in the realm of energy storage. This study provides a comprehensive overview of how AI, across diverse applications, categorizes, and optimizes energy systems. The study critically evaluates the effectiveness of these AI technologies, highlighting their impressive accuracy in achieving a range of objectives. Through a thorough analysis, the paper also offers valuable recommendations and outlines future research directions, aiming to inspire innovative concepts and advancements in leveraging AI for TESS. By bridging the gap between TES and AI techniques, this study contributes significantly to the progress of energy systems, enhancing their efficiency, reliability, and sustainability. The insights gleaned from this research will be invaluable for researchers, engineers, and policymakers, aiding them in making well-informed decisions regarding the design, operation, and management of energy systems integrated with TES.
Self-Equilibrium Analysis and Minimal Mass Design of Tensegrity Prism Units
Authors: Cao Ziying , Luo Ani , Feng Yaming , Liu Heping
Published: March 2024

This paper provides a specific analysis strategy for tensegrity prism units with different complexities and connectivity. Through the nodal coordinate matrix and connectivity matrix, we can establish the equilibrium equation of the structure in the self-equilibrium state, and the equilibrium matrix can be obtained. The Singular Value Decomposition (SVD) method can find the self-equilibrium configuration. The torsional angle formula between the upper and bottom surfaces of the prismatic tensegrity structure, which includes complexity and connectivity, can be obtained through the SVD form-finding method. According to the torsional angle formula of the self-equilibrium configuration, we carry out the mechanical analysis of the single node, and the force density relationship between elements is gained. As one of the standards, the mass is used to evaluate the light structure. This paper also studied the minimal mass of the self-equilibrium tensegrity structure with the same complexity in different connectivity and got the minimal mass calculation formula. A six-bar tensegrity prism unit is investigated in this paper, which shows the feasibility of systematic analysis of prismatic structures. This paper provides a theoretical reference for prismatic tensegrity units.
Axial Compressor Transonic Rotor Shock Interaction With Upstream Stator Row
Authors: Michelassi Vittorio , Burberi Corrado , Koyyalamudi Satish , Lorusso Salvatore , Del Greco Alberto Scotti
Published: March 2024

Modern multistage axial compressors are designed for high aerodynamic loading and wide range with front stages rotor inlet relative Mach number above one over a large portion of span. Rotor shock waves propagate and reflect in the upstream stator where they provoke extra aerodynamic losses and aeromechanic risks. This paper discusses stator–rotor shock interactions using both steady and unsteady numerical simulations. The computations focus on three different stage designs with the same capacity and total pressure ratio, but different axial gaps and load distribution in stator and rotor. Speedlines from steady and unsteady computations compare the designs, and the detailed flow fields are analyzed at design and close to stall conditions. The steady and unsteady calculations predict similar stage performance, but different stator–rotor loss split. The analyses reveal how the rotor shocks orientation with respect to the upstream stator camber line controls the intensity of shocks interaction with the stator row and its propagation upstream. Finally, the paper indicates the ways to reduce the shock-driven rotor–stator interaction and suggests simple criteria to determine when to switch from steady to unsteady calculations for a reliable transonic stage performance prediction.
Retrofitting Natural Gas–Fired Boiler for Hydrogen Combustion: Operational Performance and NOx Emissions
Authors: Nemitallah Medhat A. , Aliyu Mansur , Hamdy Mohamed , Habib Mohamed A.
Published: March 2024

The effects of hydrogen fraction (HF: volumetric fraction of H2 in the fuel mixture of CH4 + H2) from 0% to 100% by volume, on the thermal and environmental performance of a 207-MW industrial water tube boiler, are investigated numerically at a fixed excess air factor, λ = 1.15. This study aims to determine the hardware modifications required for boilers to be retrofitted for pure hydrogen operation and investigates how NOx emissions are affected by hydrogen enrichment. The results showed insignificant increases in maximum combustion temperature with increasing the HF, though the distributions of temperature profiles are distinct. In reference to the basic methane combustion, H2 flames resulted in a positive temperature rise in the vicinity of the burner. Increasing the HF from 0% to 2% resulted in higher average thermal NOx emissions at the boiler exit section from 37 up to 1284 ppm, then it decreased to 1136 ppm at HF = 30%, and later it leveled up to 1474 ppm at HF = 100%. The spots for higher differences in NO formation compared to the reference case are shifted downstream at higher HFs. The effect of hydrogen enrichment on CO2 and H2O as radiation sources, as well as the volumetric absorption radiation of the furnace wall and the heat flux at furnace surfaces, has all been presented in relation to the effect of hydrogen addition on boiler performance.
Control of cell proliferation by memories of mitosis
Authors: Meitinger Franz , Belal Hazrat , Davis Robert L. , Martinez Mallory B. , Shiau Andrew K. , Oegema Karen , Desai Arshad
Published: March 2024

Mitotic duration is tightly constrained, and extended mitosis is characteristic of problematic cells prone to chromosome missegregation and genomic instability. We show here that mitotic extension leads to the formation of p53-binding protein 1 (53BP1)–ubiquitin-specific protease 28 (USP28)–p53 protein complexes that are transmitted to, and stably retained by, daughter cells. Complexes assembled through a Polo-like kinase 1–dependent mechanism during extended mitosis and elicited a p53 response in G
1
that prevented the proliferation of the progeny of cells that experienced an approximately threefold extended mitosis or successive less extended mitoses. The ability to monitor mitotic extension was lost in p53-mutant cancers and some p53–wild-type (p53-WT) cancers, consistent with classification of
TP53BP1
and
USP28
as tumor suppressors. Cancers retaining the ability to monitor mitotic extension exhibited sensitivity to antimitotic agents.
BCG vaccination reduces bovine tuberculosis transmission, improving prospects for elimination
Authors: Fromsa Abebe , Willgert Katriina , Srinivasan Sreenidhi , Mekonnen Getnet , Bedada Wegene , Gumi Balako , Lakew Matios , Tadesse Biniam , Bayissa Berecha , Sirak Asegedech , Girma Abdela Musse , Gebre Solomon , Chibssa Tesfaye , Veerasami Maroudam , Vordermeier H. Martin , Bakker Douwe , Berg Stefan , Ameni Gobena , Juleff Nick , de Jong Mart C. M. , Wood James , Conlan Andrew , Kapur Vivek
Published: March 2024

Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) is a routinely used vaccine for protecting children against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
that comprises attenuated
Mycobacterium bovis
. BCG can also be used to protect livestock against
M. bovis
; however, its effectiveness has not been quantified for this use. We performed a natural transmission experiment to directly estimate the rate of transmission to and from vaccinated and unvaccinated calves over a 1-year exposure period. The results show a higher indirect efficacy of BCG to reduce transmission from vaccinated animals that subsequently become infected [74%; 95% credible interval (CrI): 46 to 98%] compared with direct protection against infection (58%; 95% CrI: 34 to 73%) and an estimated total efficacy of 89% (95% CrI: 74 to 96%). A mechanistic transmission model of bovine tuberculosis (bTB) spread within the Ethiopian dairy sector was developed and showed how the prospects for elimination may be enabled by routine BCG vaccination of cattle.
Ultrafast Kapitza-Dirac effect
Authors: Lin Kang , Eckart Sebastian , Liang Hao , Hartung Alexander , Jacob Sina , Ji Qinying , Schmidt Lothar Ph. H. , Schöffler Markus S. , Jahnke Till , Kunitski Maksim , Dörner Reinhard
Published: March 2024

Similar to the optical diffraction of light passing through a material grating, the Kapitza-Dirac effect occurs when an electron is diffracted by a standing light wave. In its original description, the effect is time independent. Here, we extended the Kapitza-Dirac effect to the time domain. By tracking the spatiotemporal evolution of a pulsed electron wave packet diffracted by a 60-femtosecond (where one femtosecond = 10
−15
seconds) standing wave pulse in a pump-probe scheme, we observed time-dependent diffraction patterns. The fringe spacing in the observed pattern differs from that generated by the conventional Kapitza-Dirac effect. By exploiting this time-resolved diffraction scheme, we can access the time evolution of the phase properties of a free electron and potentially image ionic potentials and electronic decoherences.
AI in Africa: Basics Over Buzz
Authors: Mutiso Rose M.
Published: March 2024

When Buti Manamela
visited
Lengau, Africa’s fastest supercomputer, he had more prosaic technology in mind: electricity. South Africa’s Deputy Minister of Higher Education, Science and Technology was at the Center for High Performance Computing in Cape Town for what should have been a showcase tour of a facility providing the country with the computing power needed to run and analyze the kinds of complex models and huge datasets that underpin artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML). But Manamela was there to better understand the impact of South Africa’s
rolling power blackouts
on the center’s operations. Lengau, which means “cheetah” in Setswana, is one of the most important outposts in Africa’s AI infrastructure landscape; yet, it is struggling to operate at full capacity because of unreliable power.