bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelling of semaglutide in children and adolescents with healthy and obese body weights
Authors: Machado Thayná Rocco , Honorio Thiago , Souza Domingos Thaisa F. , Candido de Paula Dailane da Silva , Cabral Lucio Mendes , Rodrigues Carlos R. , Abrahim‐Vieira Bárbara A. , Teles de Souza Alessandra Mendonça
Published: June 2023

Aims

To develop paediatric physiologically based pharmacokinetic modelling (PBPK) models of semaglutide to estimate the pharmacokinetic profile for subcutaneous injections in children and adolescents with healthy and obese body weights.

Methods

Pharmacokinetic modelling and simulations of semaglutide subcutaneous injections were performed using the Transdermal Compartmental Absorption & Transit model implemented in GastroPlus v.9.5 modules. A PBPK model of semaglutide was developed and verified in the adult population, by comparing the simulated plasma exposure with the observed data, and further scaled to the paediatric populations with normal and obese body weight.

Results

The semaglutide PBPK model was successfully developed in adults and scaled to the paediatric population. Our paediatric PBPK simulations indicated a significant increase in maximum plasma concentrations for the 10–14 years' paediatric population with healthy body weights, which was higher than the observed values in adults at the reference dose. Since gastrointestinal adverse events are related to increased semaglutide concentrations, peak concentrations outside the target range may represent a safety risk for this paediatric age group. Besides, paediatric PBPK models indicated that body weight was inversely related to semaglutide maximum plasma concentration, corroborating the consensus on the influence of body weight on semaglutide PK in adults.

Conclusion

Paediatric PBPK was successfully achieved using a top‐down approach and drug‐related parameters. The development of unprecedented PBPK models will support paediatric clinical therapy for applying aid‐safe dosing regimens for the paediatric population in diabetes treatment.
Gender differences in optimism, loss aversion and attitudes towards risk
Authors: Dawson Chris
Published: June 2023

Systematic differences in the attitudes of men and women towards risk is well established. In this paper, we investigate the joint role of two prominent psychological characteristics in explaining this difference. Our starting point is that risk assessments can be thought of, in general terms, to combine beliefs about the probability of negative outcomes occurring with a subjective valuation of how painful that negative outcome would be. Exploiting large‐scale panel data from the United Kingdom, we find that gender differences in financial optimism and financial loss aversion – the stronger psychological response to monetary losses than monetary gains – explain a substantial proportion of the parallel gender difference in willingness to take risks. This result prevails even after controlling for the Big Five personality traits, suggesting that the prominent psychological characteristics capture different aspects of behaviour than the Big Five.
Sulfasalazine inhibits esophageal cancer cell proliferation by mediating ferroptosis
Authors: Yin Lai‐bo , Li Zhi‐wei , Wang Jing‐ling , Wang Lei , Hou Liang , Hu Si‐yuan , Chen Huan , Luo Pan , Cui Xiao‐bin , Zhu Jia‐long
Published: June 2023

This study aimed to explore the potential mechanism by which sulfasalazine (SAS) inhibits esophageal cancer cell proliferation. A cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8) assay was used to detect the effect of SAS (0, 1, 2, and 4 mM) on the proliferation of TE‐1 cells. Subsequently, TE‐1 cells were divided into control group, SAS group, SAS + ferrostatin‐1 (ferroptosis inhibitor) group, and SAS + Z‐VAD (OH)‐FMK (apoptosis inhibitor) group, and cell proliferation was measured using a CCK‐8 assay. Real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction and western blotting were used to determine the expression of solute carrier family member 7 11 (SLC7A11, also called xCT), glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4), and acyl‐CoA synthase long‐chain family member 4 (ACSL4) in TE‐1 cells. Measurement of ferroptosis in TE‐1 cells was achieved by flow cytometry. Compared with the control group (0 mM SAS), the proliferation of TE‐1 cells was significantly inhibited by different concentrations of SAS for different time lengths, and 4 mM SAS treatment for 48 h could obtain the maximum inhibition rate (53.9%). In addition, SAS treatment caused a significant decrease in the mRNA and protein expression of xCT and GPX4, and a significant increase in ACSL4 expression in TE‐1 cells treated with SAS. Flow cytometry results showed that the ferroptosis level was significantly increased after SAS treatment. However, the activation of ferroptosis by SAS was partially eliminated by treatment with ferrostatin‐1 or Z‐VAD (OH)‐FMK. In conclusion, SAS inhibits the proliferation of esophageal carcinoma cells by activating the ferroptosis pathway.
Using the Child Perceptions Questionnaire with young adults
Authors: Chapman R. A. , Thomson W. M. , Broadbent J. M.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

That no study has investigated oral health‐related quality of life (OHRQoL) through the transition from adolescence to young adulthood is partly due to no OHRQoL index having been validated in both adult and child populations. Having separate measures for adolescence and young adulthood has meant that the different measures cannot be compared directly. Accordingly, the study objectives were: to determine whether the CPQ11–14 is a valid and reliable OHRQoL measure in young adults and to compare its performance with the OHIP‐14 in young adults.

Methods

A cross‐sectional study was undertaken of a convenience sample of 968 young New Zealand adults aged 18–30 years (83.1% female) using RedCap. Two separate measures of OHRQoL were used (the CPQ11–14 and OHIP‐14), along with Locker's global oral health item.

Results

Internal consistency reliability was high for the CPQ11–14 and the OHIP‐14, with Cronbach's alpha scores of .87 and .92, respectively. Mean scale scores were 15.8 (SD = 9.7) for the CPQ11–14 and 24.1 (SD = 10.1) for the OHIP‐14. The scale scores were strongly and positively correlated (Pearson's r = .8). Both demonstrated acceptable construct validity, represented by ascending gradients in mean scores across the ordinal response categories of Locker's global oral health item. Ordinal logistic regression modelling of Locker's item showed the CPQ11–14 to have a slightly better fit and explain more variance than the OHIP‐14.

Conclusion

The CPQ11–14 was valid and reliable in this young adult population. Further epidemiological validation studies should confirm the findings in representative samples.
A comprehensive policy review of evidence‐based practices in autism policy across the United Kingdom's four nations
Authors: Storey Catherine , McConnell Karen , Keenan Ciara
Published: June 2023

This review provides an overview of how the four nations construct policy around supporting autistic people and identifies supports which are considered evidence‐based practice (EBP). Video‐based interventions are a recommended EBP for supporting autistic people and are recommended specifically within the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence autism guidelines. We highlight that EBP's can be difficult to identify and conclude with the recommendation that evidence and gap maps are a valuable tool that should be used to present evidence in an accessible way to policy makers, autistic people and their families and carers.
Heart rate variability and haemodynamic function in individuals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
Authors: Alyahya Alaa I. , Charman Sarah J. , Okwose Nduka C. , Fuller Amy S. , Eggett Christopher , Luke Peter , Bailey Kristian , MacGowan Guy A. , Jakovljevic Djordje G.
Published: June 2023

Objectives

Heart rate variability (HRV) is a measure of cardiac autonomic function. This study: (1) evaluated the differences in HRV and haemodynamic function between individuals with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy (HCM) and healthy controls, and (2) determined the relationship between HRV and haemodynamic variables in individuals with HCM.

Methods

Twenty‐eight individuals with HCM (n = 7, females; age 54 ± 15 years; body mass index: 29 ± 5 kg/m2) and 28 matched healthy individuals (n = 7 females; age 54 ± 16 years; body mass index: 29 ± 5 kg/m2) completed 5‐min HRV and haemodynamic measurements under resting (supine) conditions using bioimpedance technology. Frequency domain HRV measures (absolute and normalized low‐frequency power (LF), high‐frequency power (HF) and LF/HF ratio) and RR interval were recorded.

Results

Individuals with HCM demonstrated higher vagal activity (i.e., absolute unit of HF power (7.40 ± 2.50 vs. 6.03 ± 1.35 ms2, p = 0.01) but lower RR interval (914 ± 178 vs. 1014 ± 168 ms, p = 0.03) compared to controls. Stroke volume (SV) index and cardiac index were lower in HCM compared with healthy individuals (SV, 33 ± 9 vs. 43 ± 7 ml‎/beat‎/m², p < 0.01; cardiac index,2.33 ± 0.42 vs. 3.57 ± 0.82 L/min/m2, p < 0.01), but total peripheral resistance (TPR) was higher in HCM (3468 ± 1027 vs. 2953 ± 1050 dyn·s·m2cm−5, p = 0.03). HF power was significantly related to SV (r = −0.46, p < 0.01) and TPR (r = 0.28, p < 0.05) in HCM.

Conclusions

Short‐term frequency domain indices of HRV provide a feasible approach to assess autonomic function in individuals with HCM. Vagal activity, represented by HF power, is increased, and associated with peripheral resistance in individuals with HCM.
CD30 expression in cutaneous B‐cell lymphomas
Authors: Afolayan‐Oloye Olabisi , Zhao Lili , Tejasvi Trilokraj , Chan May P. , Harms Paul W. , Fullen Douglas R. , Wilcox Ryan A. , Hristov Alexandra C.
Published: June 2023

Introduction

CD30 expression has been infrequently described in cutaneous B‐cell lymphomas (CBCLs). We examined CD30 expression in reactive lymphoid hyperplasia (RLH) and CBCL and correlated expression with clinicopathologic features.

Methods

CD30 was examined in 82 CBCL patients and 10 RLH patients that had been evaluated in our cutaneous lymphoma clinics. The CBCL patients included: primary cutaneous follicle center lymphoma (PCFCL), Grade 1/2 systemic/nodal follicular lymphoma (SFL); primary cutaneous marginal zone lymphoma/lymphoproliferative disorder (PCMZL/LPD); systemic marginal zone lymphoma (SMZL); primary cutaneous diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma, leg type (PCDLBCL‐LT); and extracutaneous/systemic diffuse large B‐cell lymphoma (eDLBCL). We scored CD30 expression for intensity and extent and related CD30 expression to age at first diagnosis, sex, site of biopsy, clinical appearance, extracutaneous involvement, multiple cutaneous lesions, B‐symptoms, lymphadenopathy, positive positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT), elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and positive bone marrow biopsy.

Results

CD30 expression was identified in 35% of CBCL, ranging from few, weak, scattered cells to strong and diffuse expression. It was most common in PCFCL and was not expressed in PCDLBCL‐LT. Rare PCFCL expressed strong, diffuse CD30. Some cases of PCMZL/LPD, SMZL, FL, and RLH showed scattered, strongly positive cells. CD30 expression in CBCL was associated with favorable clinical features: younger age, negative PET/CT, and an LDH within normal limits.

Conclusions

CD30 may be expressed in CBCL, possibly causing diagnostic confusion. CD30 expression was most commonly identified in PCFCL and is associated with favorable clinical features. In cases with strong and diffuse expression, CD30 could be a therapeutic target.
Effect of irrigation acid solutions on cleaning and bond strength to post‐space dentin
Authors: Alencar C. de Melo , Zaniboni J. Ferrari , Besegato J. Felipe , Barros A. Patricia Oliveira , Gélio M. Bena , Belizário L Garcia , Godoy E. Maximiliano Fernandez , Kuga M. Carlos
Published: June 2023

This study evaluated the effects of irrigating solutions containing 5% boric acid + 1% citric acid or 1% peracetic acid + high concentration hydrogen peroxide on root cleaning and bond strength of cementation systems after 24 h and 6 months of glass fiber post cementation. One hundred and twenty roots were endodontically treated. The specimens were randomized into one of four treatments (n = 10): DW (distilled water); NaOCl2.5% + EDTA17% (2.5% sodium hypochlorite solution + 17% EDTA); PA1% + HP (1% peracetic acid solution + high concentration of hydrogen peroxide); BA5% + CA1% (5% boric acid associated with 1% citric acid). The cleaning efficacy in the cervical, middle, and apical thirds of the post‐space, and the push‐out bond strength at 24 h and 6 months after post cementation were evaluated by Kruskal‐Wallis and two‐way ANOVA tests, respectively. BA5% + CA1% showed statistically significantly superior cleaning efficacy compared to the other solutions. This irrigation protocol also resulted in higher bond strength at 24 h and 6 months, regardless of the root third considered, and this was statistically significantly higher than those seen for DW and PA1% + HP. For BA5% + CA1% irrigation protocol, type 1 adhesive failure was the most prevalent. Post‐space irrigation with BA5% + CA1% provided both higher cleaning efficacy and better bond strength.
Lowering the age of consent: Legal, ethical, and clinical implications of adolescent‐directed therapy
Authors: McNamara Kathleen
Published: June 2023

This article discusses a recently enacted Colorado law that aims to reduce the youth suicide rate by lowering the age of consent for psychotherapy from age 15 to age 12. The author discusses the challenges therapists face when young adolescents seek therapy without parental consent in cases involving interparental conflict. Suggestions for managing adolescent‐directed therapy are offered.
Comprehensive progressive damage analyses of mixed‐mode repaired panels: How composite patch sizes and layups affects restarting fatigue crack growth
Authors: Hosseini‐Toudeshky Hossein , Sheibanian Fariborz , Sabzy Pourya , Jalalvand Meisam
Published: June 2023

In this paper, comprehensive progressive damage analyses are performed to evaluate the effects of patch sizes and layups on restarting crack growth of single‐side repaired aluminum panels with central inclined cracks under high cycle fatigue loading. Complicated nonlinear damage behavior of adhesive bonding, composite patch, mixed‐mode cracks, and fatigue loadings require precise numerical tools to consider and analyze the coupling effects of various damages on fatigue life of such complex component. In progressive damage analysis, high cycle fatigue cohesive zone modeling is used for debonding of patch, and high cycle fatigue continuum damage model used for composite patches. Practical composite patch layups and sizes are selected in huge number of models, and the restarting crack growth life is predicted. The obtained results show the possibility of increasing the restarting crack growth life using an appropriate composite patch layup and geometry dimensions.
Redetermination of Mass Fractions of Three Halogens (Cl, Br, I) for Seventeen USGS Geochemical Reference Materials
Authors: Ebihara Mitsuru , Shirai Naoki , Sekimoto Shun
Published: June 2023

The mass fractions of Cl, Br and I were obtained by radiochemical neutron activation analysis (RNAA) of seventeen USGS geochemical reference materials (RMs), for which we had published halogen contents in GGR (Sekimoto and Ebihara 2017). Except for three RMs, 100 mg to > 300 mg of each powder material was used for a single analysis. After 10 min of neutron irradiation, a rapid radiochemical purification procedure was performed. Chemical yields were determined by the reactivation method. Each RM was analysed multiple times and consistent values were obtained for each element. Of the seventeen RMs, CLB‐1, DGPM‐1 and QLO‐1a were also analysed by INAA. The INAA and RNAA results for CLB‐1 and DGPM‐1agree within 4%, implying that RNAA values obtained in this study are reliable. Compared with the 2017 data, the Cl and Br values obtained in this study were consistent, but the I values were 1/4 to 1/8 lower for all samples. It is concluded that the quantitative values of Cl and Br published in GGR in 2017 are reliable, while the I values are incorrect. Therefore, it is recommended that the I contents in the USGS RMs determined in this study be substituted in place of previous values.
Twice‐daily intake of bismuth‐based quadruple therapy for first‐line Helicobacter pylori eradication: A retrospective study on 10‐day, 14‐day, and half‐dose antibiotic therapy
Authors: Lee Sun‐Young , Kim Jeong Hwan , Sung In‐Kyung , Park Hyung Seok
Published: June 2023

Background/Aims

In areas with >15% clarithromycin resistance, bismuth‐based quadruple therapy is recommended for first‐line Helicobacter pylori eradication. This study aimed to determine the efficacy of the twice‐daily intake of bismuth‐based quadruple therapy among 10‐day, 14‐day, and half‐dose antibiotic regimens.

Methods

From May 2021 to March 2023, H. pylori‐infected Korean adults were administered tetracycline (1 g), metronidazole (750 mg), bismuth potassium citrate (300 mg), and lansoprazole (30 mg) twice daily, after breakfast and dinner, for 10 days. The regimen was administered for 14 days if the body weight was ≥70 kg or if the patient had reinfection. Half doses of antibiotics were administered for 14 days if there was a risk of drug interactions or if the patient was aged ≥75 years. The 13C‐urea breath test was performed after 6 weeks.

Results

Among the 1258 infected Koreans, 85.1% (412/484) in the 10‐day, 84.3% (498/591) in the 14‐day, and 86.3% (158/183) in the half‐dose antibiotic groups followed the instructions. In the per‐protocol (PP) analysis, eradication rates were higher in the 10‐day (90.5%, p = 0.019) and 14‐day (90.2%, p = 0.023) groups than in the half‐dose group (83.5%). In the intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis, eradication rates were higher in the 10‐day group (80.6%) than in the half‐dose group (73.2%, p = 0.039). In the half‐dose group, the eradication rate was lower in patients aged ≥75 years (PP: 74.6%, ITT: 66.2%) than in those with a risk of drug interactions (PP: 89.7% [p = 0.017], ITT: 82.4% [p = 0.019]).

Conclusions

Twice‐daily intake of bismuth‐based quadruple therapy for 10–14 days showed an eradication rate of >90% in the PP analysis. A 10‐day regimen could be administered to eradication‐naive patients with a body weight below 70 kg. A half‐dose antibiotic regimen might be recommended to patients with a risk of drug interactions but not to those aged ≥75 years simply due to old age.
Determinants of the effectiveness of bezafibrate combined with ursodeoxycholic acid in patients with primary biliary cholangitis
Authors: Matsumoto Kosuke , Hirohara Junko , Takeuchi Akihito , Miura Ryo , Asaoka Yoshinari , Nakano Toshiaki , Tanaka Atsushi
Published: June 2023

Background and Aims

For patients with primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) exhibiting suboptimal responses to ursodeoxycholic acid (UDCA), obeticholic acid (OCA), and bezafibrate (BZF) are currently used and shown to improve long‐term outcomes. Nevertheless, we encounter patients who die or undergo liver transplantation (LT) even with combination treatment. In this study, we explored prognostic indicators in patients receiving combination treatment of UDCA and BZF.

Methods

We took advantage of the Japanese PBC registry and enrolled patients who received both UDCA and BZF therapy in 2000 or later. The covariates investigated included baseline covariates as well as treatment covariates. Two main outcomes (all‐cause death or LT and liver‐related death or LT) were assessed using multivariable‐adjusted Cox proportional hazards models.

Results

In total, 772 patients were included. The median follow‐up was 7.1 years. Using the Cox regression model, bilirubin (hazard ratio [HR] 6.85, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.73–27.1, p = 0.006), alkaline phosphatase (HR 5.46, 95% CI 1.32–22.6, p = 0.019), and histological stage (HR 4.87, 95% CI 1.16–20.5, p = 0.031) were found associated with LT‐free survival. For survival free from liver disease‐related death or LT, albumin (HR 7.72, 95% CI 1.48–40.4, p = 0.016) and bilirubin (HR 14.5, 95% CI 2.37–88.5, p = 0.004) were found significantly associated.

Conclusion

In patients with PBC receiving combination therapy, prognostic variables were similar to those in patients receiving UDCA monotherapy. These results indicate the importance of diagnosing patients with PBC at an earlier stage because of the reduced effectiveness of BZF at advanced stages.
Direct contact with endothelial cells drives dental pulp stem cells toward smooth muscle cells differentiation via TGF‐β1 secretion
Authors: Zhang Yuchen , Zhong Jialin , Lin Shulan , Hu Mingxin , Liu Junqing , Kang Jun , Qi Yubingqing , Basabrain Mohammed S. , Zou Ting , Zhang Chengfei
Published: June 2023

Aim

Prevascularization is vital to accelerate functional blood circulation establishment in transplanted engineered tissue constructs. Mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs) or mural cells could promote the survival of implanted endothelial cells (ECs) and enhance the stabilization of newly formed blood vessels. However, the dynamic cell–cell interactions between MSCs, mural cells and ECs in the angiogenic processes remain unclear. This study aimed to explore the interactions of human umbilical vein ECs (HUVECs) and dental pulp stem cells (DPSCs) in an in vitro cell coculture model.

Methodology

Human umbilical vascular ECs and DPSCs were directly cocultured or indirectly cocultured with transwell inserts in endothelial basal media‐2 (EBM‐2) supplemented with 5% FBS for 6 days. Expression of SMC‐specific markers in DPSCs monoculture and HUVEC+DPSC cocultures was assessed by western blot and immunofluorescence. Activin A and transforming growth factor‐beta 1 (TGF‐β1) in conditioned media (CM) of HUVECs monoculture (E‐CM), DPSCs monoculture (D‐CM) and HUVEC+DPSC cocultures (E+D‐CM) were analysed by enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay. TGF‐β RI kinase inhibitor VI, SB431542, was used to block TGF‐β1/ALK5 signalling in DPSCs.

Results

The expression of SMC‐specific markers, α‐SMA, SM22α and Calponin, were markedly increased in HUVEC+DPSC direct cocultures compared to that in DPSCs monoculture, while no differences were demonstrated between HUVEC+DPSC indirect cocultures and DPSCs monoculture. E+D‐CM significantly upregulated the expression of SMC‐specific markers in DPSCs compared to E‐CM and D‐CM. Activin A and TGF‐β1 were considerably higher in E+D‐CM than that in D‐CM, with upregulated Smad2 phosphorylation in HUVEC+DPSC cocultures. Treatment with activin A did not change the expression of SMC‐specific markers in DPSCs, while treatment with TGF‐β1 significantly enhanced these markers' expression in DPSCs. In addition, blocking TGF‐β1/ALK5 signalling inhibited the expression of α‐SMA, SM22α and Calponin in DPSCs.

Conclusions

TGF‐β1 was responsible for DPSC differentiation into SMCs in HUVEC+DPSC cocultures, and TGF‐β1/ALK5 signalling pathway played a vital role in this process.
Oxidation‐induced crack‐healing behavior of SiC‐Al2O3‐TiB2 composites at 600°C–800°C
Authors: Cai Haopeng , Wei Yinglong , Wang Baoguo , Jiang Kun
Published: June 2023

It is necessary to give self‐healing function to ceramic materials because of their notch sensitivity. In the past, studies on self‐healing ceramics have mainly focused on the high‐temperature stage, and less research has been done below 1000°C. In this study, SiC/Al2O3/TiB2 ceramic composites were prepared by spark plasma discharge sintering, and cracks were introduced on the surface of the polished specimens. Crack healing at 600°C–800°C was investigated, and the recovery of macroscopic bending strength and the change of microscopic crack morphology after heat treatment were used to evaluate the crack‐healing effect. It was found that the surface cracks of the material were completely filled and healed by oxidation products after heat treatment at 700°C for 60 min, and the highest healing efficiency exceeded 95% for both specimens with different crack lengths, and the main mechanism of crack by Si‐Al‐B‐Na‐Ca‐O type glass produced by the reaction of TiB2 and a small amount of SiC with oxygen to produce oxides and glass powder. Good healing effect and fast healing speed effectively improve the service life and reliability of ceramic materials, which has very far‐reaching significance for the practical application with ceramic materials.
Preparation and properties of lightweight, conformal, and load‐bearing TiC/Si3N4 absorbing composites by gel casting
Authors: Liang Guandong , Bi Jianqiang , Qiao Linjing , Yin Zhuangzhuang , Wang Shaoyin
Published: June 2023

In view of the lack of conformal, load‐bearing, light‐weight, and high temperature‐resistant integrated wave‐absorbing composites suitable for extremely complex conditions, the gel‐casting process was successfully applied to porous Si3N4 wave‐absorbing composites in this work. A universal low‐slurry for gel casting was prepared by using two dispersants acting together (tetramethylammonium hydroxide solution and sodium lauryl sulfate), which ensured the smooth completion of the gel casting process. Combining the thermogravimetric and differential thermal gravity curves of the composite green body, reasonable parameters of the rubber discharge process are given to avoid the problem of the green body swelling and cracking. The porous TiC/Si3N4 composites were successfully prepared by holding them at 1650°C for 3 h. The bending strength, density, minimum reflection loss, absorption bandwidth, and matched thickness in the P‐band of the composites with 30 wt.% TiC addition were 54.08 ± 3.02 MPa, 1.906 g/cm3, ‐37.75 dB, 1.9 GHz, and 4.1 mm, respectively. The electromagnetic wave loss mechanisms of the composites are a combination of conductivity loss, multiple reflections and scattering, interfacial polarization, and defect polarization.
Auditors' interpretation of risk and the quality of analysts' earnings forecasts: Evidence from textual analysis of key audit matters
Authors: Sun Yan , Gao Yan , Jin Justin
Published: June 2023

This study examines the impact of key audit matters (KAMs) on the quality of analysts' earnings forecasts in the emerging Chinese market. The nature of KAMs is auditors' interpretations of the risk of material misstatements. Based on a quasi‐natural experimental environment created by the phased adoption of communicating KAMs in the emerging Chinese market, we find that communicating KAMs can improve the quality of analysts' earnings forecasts by increasing forecast accuracy and decreasing dispersion. We also find that the extent of auditors' interpretations of the risk of material misstatements is positively related to the quality of analysts' earnings forecasts. The positive relationship between the extent of auditors' interpretations of the risk of material misstatements and the quality of analysts' earnings forecasts is more pronounced for firms with less information transparency and less skilled analysts.
Examining the context‐specific reasons and adoption of artificial intelligence‐based voice assistants: A behavioural reasoning theory approach
Authors: Anayat Shaista , Rasool Gowhar , Pathania Anjali
Published: June 2023

AI‐based voice assistants are some of the most popular consumer products of artificial intelligence technology. This study investigates the influence of the reasoning process on overall consumer attitudes and adoption intentions towards AI‐based voice assistants. Behavioural reasoning theory was applied to hypothesize relationships between values, context‐specific reasons, attitudes, and adoption intention. Partial least squares structural equation modelling was used to test the research model and hypotheses using data from 550 potential consumers in India. This research suggests a positive influence of consumers' ‘reasons for’ on their attitude and adoption intentions towards AI‐based voice assistants, as well as a favourable impact of consumers' values on ‘reasons for’. This study discovered that ‘reasons for’ and ‘reasons against’ are not only opposites but are entirely autonomous and have an independent impact on consumers' attitudes towards AI‐based voice assistants. This research improved our understanding of AI‐based product adoption by identifying the paramount role of consumers' values and the ‘reasons for’ and ‘reasons against’ in shaping their attitudes and adoption intentions towards AI‐based voice assistants.
A hybrid graphite powder PFC@G for reserving higher carbon content of self‐lubrication graphite/SiC composites by RMI
Authors: Xue Rong , Wang Jiping , Chen Yiming , Zhang Zhejian , Xiao Zhichao , Xia Hongyan
Published: June 2023

The appropriate carbon content is indispensable for the application of self‐lubricating graphite/SiC composites. However, it is a big challenge to retain high carbon content in the reaction‐formed graphite/SiC composites because of drastic consumption of carbon by violent reaction with liquid silicon. In this study, a hybrid powder constructed by graphite particles (G) and glassy carbon derived from phenolic resin (PFC) was used as carbon sources, or PFC@G for short, to reserve higher content of carbon in the reaction‐formed composites. The weight ratio of phenolic resin to graphite particles was adjusted to obtain an appropriate PFC@G with dense microstructure and close‐grained surface. Compared with the graphite/SiC composites only using raw graphite particles as carbon sources, the carbon content of the composites fabricated with compact and large PFC@G has obviously increased (up to 172%). In particular, the carbon content of the composites fabricated with the weight ratio = 0.8 reached a high value of 44.26 vol.%, which exhibited outstanding self‐lubrication properties among the four kinds of the composites. The mechanism of reserving higher content of carbon in the graphite/SiC composites by constructing PFC@G is investigated, revealing that a continuous SiC layer formed on the surface of the larger size PFC@G and most closely packed graphite particles inside of PFC@G were insulate from liquid silicon by the layer.
Ethanol infusion in left atrial appendage vein for treating refractory left atrial appendage tachycardia
Authors: Squara Fabien , Scarlatti Didier , Baudouy Delphine , Bun Sok‐Sithikun , Moceri Pamela , Ferrari Emile
Published: June 2023

Introduction

We describe an unusual case of atrial tachycardia (AT) emanating from the left atrial appendage body (LAA), successfully treated by chemical ablation.

Methods

A 66‐year‐old patient with cardiac amyloidosis and history of persistent atrial fibrillation ablation presented poorly tolerated AT with 1:1 atrioventricular nodal conduction at 135/min, despite amiodarone therapy. Three‐dimensional mapping suggested a reentrant AT from the anterior aspect of the left LAA.

Results

The tachycardia could not be terminated with radiofrequency ablation. The LAA vein was then selectively catheterized and infused with Ethanol, resulting in immediate termination of tachycardia, without LAA isolation. No recurrence occurred at 12 months.

Conclusion

Atrial tachycardias emanating from the LAA that are resistant to radiofrequency ablation may respond to chemical ablation of the LAA vein.
Roles of GOBP1 in perception of host plant volatiles revealed by CRISPR/Cas9‐mediated mutagenesis in Spodoptera litura
Authors: Han Wei‐Kang , Wei Zhi‐Qiang , Yang Yi‐Lin , Liu Xiao‐Long , Yan Qi , Zhang Jin , Dong Shuang‐Lin
Published: June 2023

The general odorant‐binding proteins (GOBPs) in Lepidoptera form a distinct OBP subclass, which exclusively has two members (GOBP1 and GOBP2) in a single species. GOBPs are long thought to function in perception of plant odorants and recently in sex pheromones, but the in vivo evidence is rarely provided. Here, by using CRISPR/Cas9 technique, we demonstrated that GOBP1 in a noctuid moth Spodoptera litura is involved in perception of host plant volatiles but not of the female sex pheromone, and GOBP1 in females is less important than GOBP2 in host plant perception. First, the GOBP1 knockout strain (GOBP1−/−) of S. litura was obtained by CRISPR/Cas9 technique. Second, in the electroantennography (EAG) tests, GOBP1−/− females displayed significant reduction in responses to plant volatile farnesene, and leaf discs of the host plant cabbage (males only to high leaf doses), but GOBP1−/− adults did not show significant EAG reduction to the major sex pheromone component and two pheromone analogues. Third, compared with GOBP2−/− females, GOBP1−/− females were significantly lower in reduction (in relation to WT moths) of EAG response to host plant leaves. Our results provide in vivo evidence that GOBP1 is involved in perception of host plant volatiles but is less important than GOBP2 in S. litura.
Revelation of mindlines in the setting of crisis
Authors: Suh Edward Hyun , Wyer Peter C.
Published: June 2023

During the devastating early months of the unfolding COVID‐19 pandemic in New York, healthcare systems and clinicians dynamically adapted to drastically changing everyday practice despite having little guidance from formal research evidence in the face of a novel virus. Through new, silo‐breaking networks of communication, clinical teams transformed and synthesized provisional recommendations, rudimentary published research findings and numerous other sources of knowledge to address the immediate patient care needs they faced during the pandemic surge. These experiences illustrated underlying social processes that are always at play as clinicians integrate information from various sources, including research and published guidelines, with their own tacit knowledge to develop shared yet personal approaches to practice. In this article, we provide a narrative account of personal experience during the COVID‐19 surge. We draw on the concept of mindlines as developed by Gabbay and Le May as a conceptual framework for interpreting that experience from the standpoint of how early information from research and guidelines was drawn on and transformed in the course of day‐to‐day struggle with the crisis in New York City emergency rooms. Finally, briefly referencing the challenges to conventional models of healthcare knowledge creation and translation through research and guideline production posed by COVID‐19 crisis, we offer a provisional perspective on current and future developments.
True molecular phylogenetic position of the cockroach gut commensal Lophomonas blattarum (Lophomonadida, Parabasalia)
Authors: Nguyen LeAnn , Taerum Stephen J. , Jasso‐Selles Daniel E. , Slamovits Claudio H. , Silberman Jeffrey D. , Gile Gillian H.
Published: June 2023

Lophomonas blattarum is a facultative commensal gut dweller of common pest cockroaches. Its cells are roughly spherical in shape with an apical tuft of ~50 flagella. Controversially, it has been implicated in human respiratory infections based on light microscopic observations of similarly shaped cells in sputum or bronchoalveolar lavage fluid. Here, we have sequenced the 18S rRNA gene of L. blattarum and its sole congener, Lophomonas striata, isolated from cockroaches. Both species branch in a fully supported clade with Trichonymphida, consistent with a previous study of L. striata, but not consistent with sequences from human samples attributed to L. blattarum.
FIGL1 coordinates with dosage‐sensitive BRCA2 in modulating meiotic recombination in maize
Authors: Zhang Ting , Zhao Shuang‐Hui , Wang Yan , He Yan
Published: June 2023

Meiotic crossover (CO) formation between homologous chromosomes ensures their subsequent proper segregation and generates genetic diversity among offspring. In maize, however, the mechanisms that modulate CO formation remain poorly characterized. Here, we found that both maize BREAST CANCER SUSCEPTIBILITY PROTEIN 2 (BRCA2) and AAA‐ATPase FIDGETIN‐LIKE‐1 (FIGL1) act as positive factors of CO formation by controlling the assembly or/and stability of two conserved DNA recombinases RAD51 and DMC1 filaments. Our results revealed that ZmBRCA2 is not only involved in the repair of DNA double‐stranded breaks (DSBs), but also regulates CO formation in a dosage‐dependent manner. In addition, ZmFIGL1 interacts with RAD51 and DMC1, and Zmfigl1 mutants had a significantly reduced number of RAD51/DMC1 foci and COs. Further, simultaneous loss of ZmFIGL1 and ZmBRCA2 abolished RAD51/DMC1 foci and exacerbated meiotic defects compared with the single mutant Zmbrca2 or Zmfigl1. Together, our data demonstrate that ZmBRCA2 and ZmFIGL1 act coordinately to regulate the dynamics of RAD51/DMC1‐dependent DSB repair to promote CO formation in maize. This conclusion is surprisingly different from the antagonistic roles of BRCA2 and FIGL1 in Arabidopsis, implying that, although key factors that control CO formation are evolutionarily conserved, specific characteristics have been adopted in diverse plant species.
Dyadic process and dynamics of caregiving and receiving in suicide recovery among Filipino college‐aged students and their families
Authors: Tampus‐Siena Merimee , Alianan Arsenio S.
Published: June 2023

With the increasing incidence of suicidality among the youth, identifying effective care and support that family members provide is essential. Despite numerous studies on the link between suicide mitigation and caregiving, the dyadic process and dynamics of family members supporting youth at risk have been scarcely explored. This study utilizes grounded theory to explore the actions, interactions, and processes involved in caregiving and receiving between five pairs of Filipino family caregivers and college‐aged care receivers who recovered from suicidality. The study gave rise to a seven‐phase model that characterizes the dynamic dyadic interactions between the family caregiver and the youth care receiver. This is summarized in the acronym C2A2R2E, which means calling‐on, contemplating, accepting, allowing, responding, reciprocating, and empowering. This model highlights the processes and dynamics of care within families, which may be useful in paving the way for families and mental health professionals to foster more effective support in mitigating suicidality among youth at risk.
The Effect of Mindfulness‐Based Sexual Counseling on Sexual Distress, Attitude Toward Sexuality, and Body Image Concerns in Pregnant Women: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Cengizhan Sıdıka Özlem , Uçar Tuba
Published: June 2023

Introduction

Sexual distress during pregnancy can cause a negative attitude toward sexuality during pregnancy, and this can be seen especially in conjunction with body image concerns. This study was conducted to determine the effects of mindfulness‐based sexual counseling (MBSC) on sexual distress, attitudes toward sexuality, and body image concerns in pregnant women.

Methods

A randomized controlled trial was conducted in a sample of women who experienced sexual distress presenting to a Healthy Living Center in eastern Turkey. Women (N = 134) were randomly assigned to receive a 4‐week, 8‐session counseling program based on mindfulness (experimental group; n = 67) or treatment as usual (control group; n = 67). The primary outcome of the study, sexual distress, was assessed using the Female Sexual Distress Scale‐Revised. Secondary outcomes included attitude toward sexuality, assessed using the Attitude Scale toward Sexuality during Pregnancy, and body image concerns, using the Body Image Concerns during Pregnancy Scale. Outcomes were compared postintervention, correcting for baseline using analysis of covariance. The study was registered with ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT04900194).

Results

Mean scores for sexual distress (7.69 vs 17.36; P < .001) and body image concerns (57.76 vs 73.88; P < .001) decreased significantly in the mindfulness group compared with the control group. Similarly, mean scores for attitudes toward sexuality significantly improved in the mindfulness group compared with the control group (133.52 vs 105.78; P < .05).

Discussion

MBSC is a promising strategy to help women experiencing sexual distress during pregnancy to reduce their levels of sexual distress, raise their positive attitudes toward sexuality, and lower their body image concerns. Larger clinical trials of MBSC are recommended to support introduction of MBSC into clinical practice.
The effect of myotonic dystrophy type 1 on temporomandibular joint and dentofacial morphology: A CBCT analysis
Authors: Evlice Burcu , Duyan Yuksel Hazal , Evlice Ahmet , Koc Filiz
Published: June 2023

Background

Myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) is a neuromuscular multisystem disease. Early involvement of facial muscles may produce an extra load on the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) in DM1.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate the morphological analyses of the bone components of temporomandibular joint (TMJ), and dentofacial morphology in myotonic dystrophy type 1 (DM1) patients by cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods

Sixty‐six individuals (33 DM1, and 33 healthy subjects) age ranging from 20 to 69 were included in the study. Clinical examinations of the patients' TMJ regions and evaluation of dentofacial morphology (maxillary deficiency, open‐bite, deep palate and cross‐bite) were performed. Dental occlusion was determined based on Angle's classification. CBCT images were evaluated regarding mandibular condyle morphology (convex, angled, flat and round) and osseous changes observed in the condyle (normal, osteophyte, erosion, flattening, sclerosis). DM1‐specific morphological and bony TMJ alterations were determined.

Results

DM1 patients showed a high prevalence of morphological and osseous TMJ changes, and statistically significant skeletal alterations. The analysis of CBCT scans indicated the prevalent condylar shape among patients with DM1 was flat, the main osseous abnormality was flattening, there was a tendency towards skeletal Class II and a posterior cross‐bite was frequently detected in DM1 patients. There was no statistically significant difference between the genders on the parameters evaluated in both groups.

Conclusion

Adult patients with DM1 presented a high frequency of crossbite, tendency to skeletal Class II and morphological osseous alterations of TMJ. The analysis of the morphological condylar alterations in patients with DM1 may be beneficial in the diagnosis of TMJ disorders. This study reveals DM1‐specific morphological and osseous TMJ alterations to provide an appropriate orthodontic/orthognathic treatment planning to patients.
How the provision of inflation information affects pension contributions: A field experiment
Authors: Büsing Pascal , Cordes Henning , Langer Thomas
Published: June 2023

Ignoring the effects of inflation in retirement planning can have severe consequences for an individual's future financial well‐being. Yet, many pension funds do not communicate inflation‐related information, presumably for the fear of reduced contributions once the members understand how low the “real” return on saving for retirement is. As an alternative prediction, the provision of inflation information could increase pension contributions, because it reveals possible pension shortfalls. In cooperation with a major German pension fund, we conduct a field experiment, in which we vary the inflation information provided to the fund members, to explore this important issue. Among all participants, we find mostly positive but insignificant effects of the inflation information on pension contributions. Among those participants who voluntarily changed their pension contributions after the experimental intervention, the provision of inflation information significantly raises the likelihood of increasing pension contributions.
Misrepresentation and migration
Authors: Kärnä Anders , Öhberg Patrik
Published: June 2023

In a representative democracy, politicians should either implement policies that voters want or policies that politicians believe are in voters long‐term interest, even if voters currently oppose them. The exact balance between these goals is debatable and politicians' policy engagement can tempt them to dismiss voters' preferences and resist information counter to their own policy position. In this paper, we discuss Sweden's generous migration policy and how it can serve as an example where politicians' policy engagement led them to a overly optimistic view of the implications of welcoming a large influx of refugees. Using detailed, repeated, survey data on members of parliament, we show that Swedish politicians favored a much more generous policy toward accepting refugees than voters for a long period of time. Neither observable factors nor expert knowledge can explain this difference between voters and politicians. A more likely explanations is wishful thinking and policy engagement from politicians that continued until political competition increased.
Constraints and affordances for UK doctors‐in‐training to exercise agency: A dialogical analysis
Authors: Mattick Karen , Goulding Anna , Carrieri Daniele , Brennan Nicola , Burford Bryan , Vance Gillian , Dornan Tim
Published: June 2023

Introduction

The goal of medical education is to develop clinicians who have sufficient agency (capacity to act) to practise effectively in clinical workplaces and to learn from work throughout their careers. Little research has focused on experiences of organisational structures and the role of these in constraining or affording agency. The aim of this study was to identify priorities for organisational change, by identifying and analysing key moments of agency described by doctors‐in‐training.

Methods

This was a secondary qualitative analysis of data from a large national mixed methods research programme, which examined the work and wellbeing of UK doctors‐in‐training. Using a dialogical approach, we identified 56 key moments of agency within the transcripts of 22 semi‐structured interviews with doctors based across the UK in their first year after graduation. By analysing action within the key moments from a sociocultural theoretical perspective, we identified tangible changes that healthcare organisations can make to afford agency.

Results

When talking about team working, participants gave specific descriptions of agency (or lack thereof) and used adversarial metaphors, but when talking about the wider healthcare system, their dialogue was disengaged and they appeared resigned to having no agency to shape the agenda. Organisational changes that could afford greater agency to doctors‐in‐training were improving induction, smoothing peaks and troughs of responsibility and providing a means of timely feedback on patient care.

Conclusions

Our findings identified some organisational changes needed for doctors‐in‐training to practise effectively and learn from work. The findings also highlight a need to improve workplace‐based team dynamics and empower trainees to influence policy. By targeting change, healthcare organisations can better support doctors‐in‐training, which will ultimately benefit patients.
Supplement to Faroe Islands botanical list with 64 species or subspecies including rare, new and potentially invasive species with comments
Authors: Jensen Jens‐Kjeld , Thorning‐Lund Flemming , Hammer Sjúrður
Published: June 2023

The supplementary botanical list features 64 species of vascular plants which are new, rare or forgotten records from the Faroe Islands. They are the cumulative notes produced from numerous excursions over the two last decades. The new species are described with notes of who discovered them, and literature references are given where appropriate. Some plants are not new discoveries for the Faroes but have been found in new localities or have been missed in most recent botanical lists. The plants are also categorized to relevant land management practice such as infield or outfield, altitude, and whether they show spreading potential, in the hope that this may guide future management and conservation of the rare and extinction prone species found in the Faroes. Fifteen non‐native taxa in the list have been categorized as showing ‘spreading potential' and may become invasive, e.g. Schedonorus arundinaceus, Alchemilla mollis, Epilobium komarovianum, Fuchsia magellanica, Reynoutria japonica and Mimulus/Erythranthe spp.