bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A single generation in the wild increases fitness for descendants of hatchery‐origin Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha)
Authors: Dayan David I. , Sard Nicholas M. , Johnson Marc A. , Fitzpatrick Cristín K. , Couture Ryan , O'Malley Kathleen G.
Published: April 2024

Reintroduction is an important tool for the recovery of imperiled species. For threatened Pacific salmonids (Oncorhynchus spp.) species, hatchery‐origin (HOR) individuals from a nearby source are often used to reestablish populations in vacant, historically occupied habitat. However, this approach is challenged by the relatively low reproductive success that HOR Pacific salmonids experience when they spawn in the wild, relative to their natural‐origin (NOR) counterparts. In this study, we used genetic parentage analysis to compare the reproductive success of three groups of adult Chinook salmon (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) reintroduced above Cougar Dam on the South Fork McKenzie River, Oregon: HOR Chinook salmon from an integrated stock; first‐generation, wild‐born descendants (hereafter F1s) of Chinook salmon produced at the same hatchery; and NOR Chinook salmon that are presumed to have been produced below the dam, on the mainstem McKenzie River, or elsewhere and volitionally entered a trap below Cougar Dam. We found that F1s produced nearly as many adult offspring as NORs, and 1.8‐fold more adult offspring than HORs. This result suggests that, for the South Fork McKenzie reintroduction program, a single generation in the wild increases fitness for the descendants of HOR Chinook salmon. Although these results are encouraging, care must be taken before extrapolating our results to other systems.
Planning and implementing genetic rescue of an endangered freshwater fish population in a regulated river, where low flow reduces breeding opportunities and may trigger inbreeding depression
Authors: Pavlova Alexandra , Schneller Nadja M. , Lintermans Mark , Beitzel Matt , Robledo‐Ruiz Diana A. , Sunnucks Paul
Published: April 2024

Augmenting depleted genetic diversity can improve the fitness and evolutionary potential of wildlife populations, but developing effective management approaches requires genetically monitored test cases. One such case is the small, isolated and inbred Cotter River population of an endangered Australian freshwater fish, the Macquarie perch Macquaria australasica, which over 3 years (2017–2019) received 71 translocated migrants from a closely related, genetically more diverse population. We used genetic monitoring to test whether immigrants bred, interbred with local fish and augmented population genetic diversity. We also investigated whether levels of river flow affected recruitment, inbreeding depression and juvenile dispersal. Fish length was used to estimate the age, birth year cohort and growth of 524 individuals born between 2016 and 2020 under variable flow conditions. DArT genome‐wide genotypes were used to assess individual ancestry, heterozygosity, short‐term effective population size and identify parent‐offspring and full‐sibling families. Of 442 individuals born after translocations commenced, only two (0.45%) were of mixed ancestry; these were half‐sibs with one translocated parent in common. Numbers of breeders and genetic diversity for five birth year cohorts of the Cotter River fish were low, especially in low‐flow years. Additionally, individuals born in the year of lowest flow evidently suffered from inbreeding depression for juvenile growth. The year of highest flow was associated with the largest number of breeders, lowest inbreeding in the offspring and greatest juvenile dispersal distances. Genetic diversity decreased in the upstream direction, flagging restricted access of breeders to the most upstream breeding sites, exacerbated by low river flow. Our results suggest that the effectiveness of translocations could be increased by focussing on upstream sites and moving more individuals per year; using riverine sources should be considered. Our results indicate that river flow sufficient to facilitate fish movement through the system would increase the number of breeders, promote individuals' growth, reduce inbreeding depression and promote genetic rescue.
Comparison on resilience and energy efficiency of authentication schemes in IoT networks
Authors: Lau Chi Ho , Chan Sammy
Published: April 2024

Network security is one of the primary concerns when deploying IoT applications. A proper authentication scheme can strengthen network security and resilience against malicious attacks. The quantitative comparison among authentication schemes is rarely found. Thus, it is difficult to choose the appropriate authentication scheme objectively. This paper presents a quantitative comparison of three authentication schemes, including blockchain‐based authentication, a widely discussed new approach for IoT security. This paper focuses on network‐level simulation instead of the protocol, providing a different angle when evaluating an authentication scheme. The simulations include five common topologies in IoT networks under five different attack strategies. The results show that the blockchain‐based scheme has the most substantial resilience compared to PKI‐based and PSK methods, while the computational cost is 1% less than the PKI‐based method. In addition, the PSK method is most energy efficient as its computational cost is only around 1% of PKI‐based and blockchain‐based methods.
‘Only to reconcile with it’. The coping experience amongst middle‐aged and older cancer survivors: A qualitative study
Authors: He Yi , Zhao Wei , Duan An , Xiao Hong , Zhou Xuemei , Zhuo Qiqi
Published: April 2024

Background

Cancer threat is relevant to age, and the threat of a foreshortened life coupled with a lengthy treatment process negatively affects middle‐aged and older adults. Understanding the coping throughout the cancer experience in middle‐aged and older cancer survivors will help develop supportive care to promote their physiological and psychological coping effects.

Objectives

To explore the cancer coping experiences of middle‐aged adults aged 40–59 and older adults over 60.

Design

A descriptive phenomenological study was employed.

Methods

Face‐to‐face, in‐depth, semistructured interviews were conducted with 22 oncology patients in a tertiary university hospital aged 40 or above from August to October 2023. The interview data were analyzed using thematic analysis procedures.

Results

Five themes and 13 subthemes were formed through analysis: acceptance of cancer (considering cancer as chronic, believing in fate and attributing cancer to karma); having different information needs (desired to be truthfully informed, information‐seeking behaviour, information avoidance behaviour); getting families involved (developing dependent behaviours, feeling emotional support, family members suffering worse); striving to maintain positive psychological state (positive thinking, seeking peer support) and negative experience (undesirable, low self‐esteem).

Conclusion

Our study reveals that cancer survivors' attitudes towards having cancer have changed from a death sentence to a more positive perception of a chronic disease. Supportive programmes for developing coping strategies should consider the cultural traditions and religious beliefs, different information needs, involvement of family and promoting a positive psychological state while avoiding negative factors.

Patient or Public Contribution

Participants with experience of coping with cancer were involved in the semistructured interview.
Smartphone‐based combined oral and whole‐body exercise programme aimed at improving oral functions: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Jung Eun Seo , Choi Yoon Young , Lee Kyeong Hee
Published: April 2024

Objectives

To investigate the effects of a smartphone‐based oral and whole‐body exercise programme on oral function in older adults.

Methods

Individuals aged 65 years or above were randomized into three groups (non‐app use, app use and control group), and a combined oral and whole‐body exercise programme was conducted for 5 weeks. Oral muscle strength, saliva flow rate, Oral Health Impact Profile‐14 (OHIP‐14), and Geriatric Oral Health Assessment Index (GOHAI) were measured before and after the intervention. The changes in each group were analysed at the end of the programme using paired sample t‐tests, and the differences among the groups were analysed using the chi‐square test, Fisher's exact test and ANOVA.

Results

The anterior tongue strength increased by 2.80 kPa after the intervention in the non‐app use group; however, the change was not statistically significant. In the app use group, the anterior tongue strength significantly increased by 4.48 kPa. The saliva flow rate increased by 0.54 and 0.71 g/min in the non‐app and app use groups, respectively, after the intervention (p < 0.05), and the change was greater in the app use group than in the other groups (p < 0.01). There were no significant changes in the posterior tongue strength, cheek strength, OHIP‐14 or GOHAI scores over the course of the study.

Conclusions

A smartphone‐based combined oral and whole‐body exercise programme can improve anterior tongue strength and saliva flow rate in older participants. The programme, however, did not result in significant changes in posterior tongue strength, cheek strength and perceived oral health.
Efficacy and tolerability of tirbanibulin 1% ointment in the treatment of cancerization field: a real‐life Italian multicenter observational study of 250 patients
Authors: Nazzaro Gianluca , Carugno Andrea , Bortoluzzi Paolo , Buffon Stefano , Astrua Chiara , Zappia Elena , Trovato Emanuele , Caccavale Stefano , Pellegrino Vincenzo , Paolino Giovanni , Balestri Riccardo , Lacava Rossella , Ciccarese Giulia , Verdelli Alice , Barruscotti Stefania , Valenti Mario , Toni Giulia , Giacalone Serena , Zavattaro Elisa , Gironi Laura C. , Mercuri Santo R. , Ribero Simone , Gisondi Paolo , Sena Paolo , Marzano Angelo V.
Published: April 2024

Background

Tirbanibulin 1% ointment is approved for the field treatment of Olsen grade I actinic keratoses (AKs) of the face and scalp.

Methods

We performed a multicenter retrospective study involving 15 dermatologic units in Italy to investigate the efficacy and tolerability of tirbanibulin in a real‐life setting. 250 patients were enrolled. Tirbanibulin, 1% ointment, was applied daily for five consecutive days. The efficacy of treatment was measured with modifications of the Actinic Keratosis Area and Severity Index (AKASI). A satisfactory response was defined by complete (100% reduction in the number of lesions) or partial clearance (75–99%) of treated AKs.

Results

Overall, the AKASI score was significantly reduced in the studied population (mean, from 4.1 ± 2.7 to 1.4 ± 1.5; P < 0.001). A satisfactory response was observed in 222 (88.8%) cases. The proportion of satisfactory responses was higher when follow‐up was performed after 8 weeks (34/35, 97.1%). The reduction in AKASI was significant in patients with Olsen grade II or III lesions (from 5.3 ± 2.8 to 1.6 ± 1.6; P < 0.001). A satisfactory response was observed in 91/104 (87.5%) cases. AKASI reduction was also significant in patients with trunk or limb AKs (from 7.0 ± 1.3 to 2.0 ± 1.6; P = 0.018) since a satisfactory response was observed in 7/8 (87.5%) cases. Tirbanibulin was well tolerated; all adverse events (AEs) included transient local reactions at the site of treatment. Overall, 231 patients had at least one AE. Only 7 (2.8%) grade 4 AEs were recorded.

Conclusion

Our retrospective study confirmed that tirbanibulin 1% ointment is effective and well tolerated in a real‐life setting and is also promising for Olsen grade II and grade III AKs and AKs localized on difficult‐to‐treat areas.
Like clockwork: A within‐person analysis of time theft in the workplace
Authors: Brock Baskin Meagan E. , Vardaman James M. , Leon Matthew R.
Published: April 2024

Employee time theft is a silent and costly behavior that is difficult to manage in organizations. Time theft is less understood than other forms of deviance as it is engaged in more frequently and considered to be less harmful by those who engage in it. This study tests a within‐person model of time theft in which negative emotion mediates the positive relationship between job stressors (task ambiguity, task conflict) and time theft. Results show support for the mediating role of emotions in the positive stressor−time theft relationship at the within‐person level. Results also show that high levels of between‐person emotional stability weakened the impact of negative emotions on time theft. These results indicate that job related stressors create an environment in which time theft may become a frequent behavior. In discussing these results, we provide recommendations for employers to combat this phenomenon.
How do avatar characteristics affect applicants' interactional justice perceptions in artificial intelligence‐based job interviews?
Authors: Min Qingfei , Sun Haoye , Wang Xiaodi , Zhang Crystal
Published: April 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI)‐based job interviews are increasingly adopted in organizations' recruitment activities. Despite their standardization and flexibility, concerns about fairness for applicants remain a critical challenge. Taking a perspective on interface design, this research examines the role of avatar characteristics in shaping perceptions of interactional justice in AI‐based job interviews. Through a scenario‐based study involving 465 participants, the impact of avatar characteristics—specifically, appearance, linguistic style, and feedback informativeness—on applicants' perceptions of interpersonal justice and informational justice was investigated. The findings indicate that avatars characterized by a warm and cheerful appearance, coupled with an affective expression style and informative feedback, significantly enhance perceptions of interpersonal justice and informational justice. These insights offer valuable practical guidance for avatar design in AI‐based job interview systems.
Antibacterial, biocompatible, and mineralization‐inducing properties of calcium silicate‐based cements
Authors: Cruz Hondares Taimy , Hao Xiaoxiao , Zhao Yanfang , Lin Yuyin , Napierala Dobrawa , Jackson Janice G. , Zhang Ping
Published: April 2024

Background

Different pulp capping materials have different origins and compositions, require different preparations, and may vary in their bioactive properties.

Aim

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the antibacterial activity, biocompatibility, and mineralization‐inducing potential of calcium silicate‐based pulp capping materials.

Design

Six contemporary calcium silicate‐based cements, ProRoot MTA, MTA Angelus, Biodentine, EndoSequence, NeoMTA 2, and NeoPutty, were evaluated. The antibacterial effects of these materials against Streptococcus mutans UA159 and Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 were determined by the agar diffusion assay and the direct culture test. The biocompatibility and mineralization‐inducing potential of these materials in preodontoblastic 17IIA11 cells were evaluated by the MTT assay and by Alizarin Red S staining, respectively.

Results and Conclusion

In agar diffusion test, only Biodentine showed distinct antibacterial effects against S. mutans. All the tested materials, however, showed antibacterial effects against S. mutans and E. faecalis in the direct culture test, with Biodentine showing the strongest growth inhibition against both S. mutans and E. faecalis. All the tested materials showed acceptable biocompatibility and mineralization‐supporting potential in our experimental conditions. In summary, ProRoot MTA, MTA Angelus, Biodentine, EndoSequence, NeoMTA 2, and NeoPutty demonstrated acceptable in vitro antimicrobial, biocompatible, and mineralization‐supporting properties.
A purified reconstituted bilayer matrix shows improved outcomes in treatment of non‐healing diabetic foot ulcers when compared to the standard of care: Final results and analysis of a prospective, randomized, controlled, multi‐centre clinical trial
Authors: Armstrong David G. , Orgill Dennis P. , Galiano Robert D. , Glat Paul M. , Kaufman Jarrod P. , Carter Marissa J. , DiDomenico Lawrence A. , Zelen Charles M.
Published: April 2024

As the incidence of diabetic foot ulcers (DFU) increases, better treatments that improve healing should reduce complications of these ulcers including infections and amputations. We conducted a randomized controlled trial comparing outcomes between a novel purified reconstituted bilayer membrane (PRBM) to the standard of care (SOC) in the treatment of non‐healing DFUs. This study included 105 patients who were randomized to either of two treatment groups (n = 54 PRBM; n = 51 SOC) in the intent to treat (ITT) group and 80 who completed the study per protocol (PP) (n = 47 PRBM; n = 33 SOC). The primary endpoint was the percentage of wounds closed after 12 weeks. Secondary outcomes included percent area reduction, time to healing, quality of life, and cost to closure. The DFUs that had been treated with PRBM healed at a higher rate than those treated with SOC (ITT: 83% vs. 45%, p = 0.00004, PP: 92% vs. 67%, p = 0.005). Wounds treated with PRBM also healed significantly faster than those treated with SOC with a mean of 42 versus 62 days for SOC (p = 0.00074) and achieved a mean wound area reduction within 12 weeks of 94% versus 51% for SOC (p = 0.0023). There were no adverse events or serious adverse events that were related to either the PRBM or the SOC. In comparison to the SOC, DFUs healed faster when treated with PRBM. Thus, the use of this PRBM is an effective option for the treatment of chronic DFUs.
Rankings without U.S. News: A revealed preference approach to evaluating law schools
Authors: Rothstein Jesse , Yoon Albert
Published: April 2024

Since their inception in 1989, the U.S. News & World Report law school rankings have influenced how schools, students, and the legal profession itself think about legal education. In the Fall of 2022, however, several of the most selective law schools formally withdrew from the annual rankings. In so doing, these schools laid bare longstanding criticisms of the rankings' questionable criteria and opaque methodology. While the long‐term effect of this boycott remains to be seen, school rankings are likely here to stay. In this Article we design a more informative approach to rankings, based on actual decisions students make. Using individual‐level data provided by the Law School Admissions Council (LSAC), we analyze the universe of applicants to U.S. law schools for the period 1988 through 2017. In so doing, we are the first to create a revealed preference ranking based solely on where applicants matriculate given offers of admission. Our approach relies neither on potentially faulty data collection from schools nor arbitrary decisions about which factors to emphasize in rankings, thereby minimizing the scope for manipulation. It also allows us to quantify the magnitude of differences in preferences among schools and to test their statistical significance. Matriculants reveal a strong preference for a handful of the most selective schools; outside of the top tier, however, matriculants do not appear to draw meaningful distinctions between schools ranked adjacently or even near to each other. While existing school rankings sow more confusion than clarity, our analysis provides a rigorous and transparent alternative, and a blueprint for redesigning school rankings.
Fit‐for‐purpose—The bottom‐up redesign of the nursing home system: The Australian Aged Care System
Authors: Sturmberg Joachim P. , Gainsford Len , Pond Dimity , Goodwin Nicholas
Published: April 2024

Nursing homes struggle to meet the needs of their residents as they become older and frailer, live with more complex co‐morbidity, and are impacted by memory impairment and dementia. Moreover, the nursing home system is overwhelmed with significantly constraining organisational and regulatory demands that stand in the way of achieving resident‐focused outcomes. These issues are compounded by the perceptions of poor working environments, poor remuneration, and poor satisfaction amongst staff. The system is beyond the state of ‘reform’ and requires a fundamental redesign based on first organisational systems understandings: a clearly definedpurpose and goal, shared values, andsystem‐wide agreed “simple (or operating) rules”. A ‘fit‐for‐purpose’ future requires a complex adaptive nursing home system characterised by seamless ‘bottom‐up and top‐down’ information flows to ensure that the necessary ‘work that needs to be done’ is done, and a governance structure that focuses on quality improvement and holds the system accountable for the quality of care that is provided.
Cone beam computed tomography assessment of maxillary anterior teeth cervix dimensions in healthy adults for optimal anatomic healing abutments
Authors: Lu Jie , Ou Yanjing , Zhao Wei , Chen Huachen , He Kaixun , Lin Hanyu , Chen Jiang
Published: April 2024

Objectives

The abutments produced with circular symmetry failed to accurately replicate the natural teeth's cervical shapes. The purpose of this study was to measure cervical cross‐sections of maxillary anterior teeth using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) images to design anatomic healing abutments.

Materials and Methods

CBCT data of 61 patients were analyzed using Ez3D Plus software. Measurements were taken at the cemento‐enamel junction (CEJ) and 1 mm coronal to CEJ for maxillary central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines. Various parameters, including area, perimeter, and eight line segments in the distal (a), disto‐palatal (b), palatal (c), mesio‐palatal (d), mesial (e), mesio‐labial (f), labial (g), and disto‐labial (h) directions, were used to describe dental neck contours. The ratios (f/b and h/d) were analyzed, and differences based on sex and dental arch morphology were explored.

Results

Significant differences were found in area and perimeter between males and females, but not in f/b and h/d ratios. Differences in the f/b ratio were observed among dental arch morphologies for maxillary central incisors, lateral incisors, and canines.

Conclusions

CBCT measurements of cervical cross‐sections provide more accurate data for designing anatomic healing abutments. The fabrication of anatomical healing abutments needs to consider the influence of gender on cervical size and to explore the potential effect of arch shape on cervical morphology.

Clinical Significance

The novel method provides detailed measurements for the description of dental cervical contours for patients with bilateral homonymous teeth missing. The measurements of this study could be utilized to design more accurate anatomic healing abutments to create desired morphology of peri‐implant soft tissue.
Autophagy receptor ZmNBR1 promotes the autophagic degradation of ZmBRI1a and enhances drought tolerance in maize
Authors: Xiang Yang , Li Guangdong , Li Qian , Niu Yingxue , Pan Yitian , Cheng Yuan , Bian Xiangli , Zhao Chongyang , Wang Yuanhong , Zhang Aying
Published: April 2024

Drought stress is a crucial environmental factor that limits plant growth, development, and productivity. Autophagy of misfolded proteins can help alleviate the damage caused in plants experiencing drought. However, the mechanism of autophagy‐mediated drought tolerance in plants remains largely unknown. Here, we cloned the gene for a maize (Zea mays) selective autophagy receptor, NEXT TO BRCA1 GENE 1 (ZmNBR1), and identified its role in the response to drought stress. We observed that drought stress increased the accumulation of autophagosomes. RNA sequencing and reverse transcription‐quantitative polymerase chain reaction showed that ZmNBR1 is markedly induced by drought stress. ZmNBR1 overexpression enhanced drought tolerance, while its knockdown reduced drought tolerance in maize. Our results established that ZmNBR1 mediates the increase in autophagosomes and autophagic activity under drought stress. ZmNBR1 also affects the expression of genes related to autophagy under drought stress. Moreover, we determined that BRASSINOSTEROID INSENSITIVE 1A (ZmBRI1a), a brassinosteroid receptor of the BRI1‐like family, interacts with ZmNBR1. Phenotype analysis showed that ZmBRI1a negatively regulates drought tolerance in maize, and genetic analysis indicated that ZmNBR1 acts upstream of ZmBRI1a in regulating drought tolerance. Furthermore, ZmNBR1 facilitates the autophagic degradation of ZmBRI1a under drought stress. Taken together, our results reveal that ZmNBR1 regulates the expression of autophagy‐related genes, thereby increasing autophagic activity and promoting the autophagic degradation of ZmBRI1a under drought stress, thus enhancing drought tolerance in maize. These findings provide new insights into the autophagy degradation of brassinosteroid signaling components by the autophagy receptor NBR1 under drought stress.
Bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling in the differential diagnosis of ACTH‐dependent Cushing's syndrome: A reappraisal
Authors: Valizadeh Majid , Abiri Behnaz , Hosseinpanah Farhad , Grossman Ashley
Published: April 2024

Cushing's syndrome (CS) is a rare disorder, once exogenous causes have been excluded. However, when diagnosed, the majority of cases are adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH)‐dependent, of which a substantial minority are due to a source outside of the pituitary, ectopic ACTH syndrome (EAS). Differentiating among pituitary‐dependent CS, Cushing's disease (CD) and an ectopic source can be problematic. Because non‐invasive tests in the evaluation of CS patients often lack adequate sensitivity and specificity, bilateral inferior petrosal sinus sampling (BIPSS), a minimally invasive procedure performed during the investigation of ACTH‐dependent CS, can be extremely helpful. BIPSS is considered to be the gold standard for differentiating CD from the EAS. Furthermore, although such differentiation may indeed be challenging, BIPSS is itself a complex investigation, especially in recent times due to the widespread withdrawal of corticotrophin‐releasing hormone and its replacement by desmopressin. We review current published data on this investigation and, in the light of this and our own experience, discuss its appropriate use in diagnostic algorithms.
Correlation between centre size, metabolic variation and mean HbA1c in major paediatric diabetes centres
Authors: Swaney Ella EK , McCombe Julia , Donath Susan , Cameron Fergus J ,   Australasian Diabetes Data Network Study Group
Published: April 2024

Aim

To exploit a relatively homogeneous national health care context and a national diabetes database to address the questions: Is there an optimal clinic/centre size in determining outcomes?; and Can improvement in median centre outcomes be driven by reducing variability in outcome?

Methods

Using the Australasian Diabetes Database Network, data from seven tertiary hospital paediatric diabetes clinics for patients with type one diabetes from Australia were recorded from 6‐month uploads: September 2017, March 2018, September 2018 and March 2019. Data from 25 244 patient visits included demographic variables, HbA1C, number of patient visits and insulin regimens.

Results

There was no association between centre size and median HbA1C. On the other hand, there was a significant association between or median absolute deviation of HbA1C outcomes and the median HbA1C result between centres. On average every two thirds of a median absolute deviation increase in clinic HbA1C was associated with a 1.0% (10.9 mmol/mol) increase in median clinic HbA1C.

Conclusions

Our data have shown that it is likely difficult for centres to have a low median HbA1C if there is high variance of HbA1C's within centres or within centre treatment groups. This appears to be true regardless of centre size. These findings need to be carefully considered by teams who wish to lower their clinic median HbA1C.
Thirty‐seven years of MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptor localization in the brain: Past and future challenges
Authors: Klosen Paul
Published: April 2024

Identifying the target cells of a hormone is a key step in understanding its function. Once the molecular nature of the receptors for a hormone has been established, researchers can use several techniques to detect these receptors. Here I will review the different tools used over the years to localize melatonin receptors and the problems associated with each of these techniques. The radioligand 2‐[125I] iodomelatonin was the first tool to allow localization of melatonin receptors on tissue sections. Once the MT1 and MT2 receptors were cloned, in situ hybridization could be used to detect the messenger RNA for these receptors. The deduced amino acid sequences for MT1 and MT2 receptors allowed the production of peptide immunogens to generate antibodies against the MT1 and MT2 receptors. Finally, transgenic reporters driven by the promoter elements of the MT1 and MT2 genes have been used to map the expression of MT1 and MT2 in the brain and the retina. Several issues have complicated the localization of melatonin receptors and the characterization of melatonin target cells over the last three decades. Melatonin receptors are expressed at low levels, leading to sensitivity issues for their detection. The second problem are specificity issues with antibodies directed against the MT1 and MT2 melatonin receptors. These receptors are G protein‐coupled receptors and many antibodies directed against such receptors have been shown to present similar problems concerning their specificity. Despite these specificity problems which start to be seriously addressed by recent studies, antibodies will be important tools in the future to identify and phenotype melatonin target cells. However, we will have to be more stringent than previously when establishing their specificity. The results obtained by these antibodies will have to be confronted and be coherent with results obtained by other techniques.
Technical challenges in REM sleep microstructure classification: A study of patients with REM sleep behaviour disorder
Authors: Yao C. William , Fiamingo Giuseppe , Lacourse Karine , Frenette Sonia , Postuma Ronald B. , Montplaisir Jacques Y. , Lina Jean‐Marc , Carrier Julie
Published: April 2024

While commonly treated as a uniform state in practice, rapid eye movement sleep contains two distinct microstructures—phasic (presence of rapid eye movement) and tonic (no rapid eye movement). This study aims to identify technical challenges during rapid eye movement sleep microstructure visual classification in patients with rapid eye movement sleep behaviour disorder, and to propose solutions to enhance reliability between scorers. Fifty‐seven sleep recordings were randomly allocated into three subsequent batches (n = 10, 13 and 34) for scoring. To reduce single‐centre bias, we recruited three raters/scorers, with each trained from a different institution. Two raters independently scored each 30‐s rapid eye movement sleep into 10 × fSEM3‐s phasic/tonic microstructures based on the AASM guidelines. The third rater acted as an “arbitrator” to resolve opposite opinions persisting during the revision between batches. Besides interrater differences in artefact rejection rate, interrater variance frequently occurred due to transitioning between microstructures and moderate‐to‐severe muscular/electrode artefact interference. To enhance interrater agreement, a rapid eye movement scoring schematic graph was developed, incorporating proxy electrode use, filters and cut‐offs for microstructure transitioning. To assess potential effectiveness of the schematic graph proposed, raters were instructed to systematically apply it in scoring for the third batch. Of the 34 recordings, 27 reached a Cohen's kappa score above 0.8 (i.e. almost perfect agreement between raters), significantly improved from the prior batches (p = 0.0003, Kruskal–Wallis test). Our study illustrated potential solutions and guidance for challenges that may be encountered during rapid eye movement sleep microstructure classification.
Integration and the risk of liver cancer—Is there a real risk?
Authors: Kasimsetty Aradhana , Sabatino Denise E.
Published: April 2024

Adeno‐associated virus (AAV)‐based gene therapies are in clinical development for haemophilia and other genetic diseases. Since the recombinant AAV genome primarily remains episomal, it provides the opportunity for long‐term expression in tissues that are not proliferating and reduces the safety concerns compared with integrating viral vectors. However, AAV integration events are detected at a low frequency. Preclinical studies in mouse models have reported hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) after systemic AAV administration in some settings, though this has not been reported in large animal models. The risk of HCC or other cancers after AAV gene therapy in clinical studies thus remains theoretical. Potential risk factors for HCC after gene therapy are beginning to be elucidated through animal studies, but their relevance to human studies remains unknown. Studies to investigate the factors that may influence the risk of oncogenesis as well as detailed investigation of cases of cancer in AAV gene therapy patients will be important to define the potential risk of AAV genotoxicity.
Differences in shrimp pond bottom soil properties and bacterial load between acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND)‐infected ponds and AHPND‐free ponds and their relation to AHPND
Authors: Chainark Suwanit , Chainark Pitchaya , Soonsan Patcharee
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the disparities in soil characteristics and pathogenic bacteria prevalence between shrimp ponds affected by acute hepatopancreatic necrosis disease (AHPND) and unaffected ponds, alongside examining the spatial distribution of soil attributes in flat‐oriented pond soil strata. Using Pearson correlation and logistic regression analyses, relationships among variables and indicators associated with AHPND prevalence were discerned, leading to the formulation of a predictive model for AHPND occurrence. Soil samples were collected from distinct locations and depths within ponds across three southern provinces of Thailand's Andaman Seaboard. The analysis revealed significantly higher concentrations of several variables, including SOD, TIC, NO2−‐N, Ca, Mn, Cu, Zn, and specified Vibrio strains, in AHPND‐afflicted ponds, especially at 0–5 cm depth. A prominent differentiation was the escalated concentration of easily decomposable organic matter (EDOM) within infected ponds, implicating potential soil and water quality deterioration alongside heightened shrimp susceptibility to AHPND. Correlational analysis showed links between bacterial densities and organic matter groupings, trace elements, exchangeable bases, and soil pH, in AHPND‐infected ponds. The logistic regression model encapsulated three soil variables (TOC, Mg, and Mn) and one pathogen variable (V. parahaemolyticus) and furnished an equation to estimate the log (odds) of AHPND occurrence, facilitating better understanding and potential forecasting of AHPND prevalence in shrimp cultivation environments.
Highly structured populations of copepods at risk to deep‐sea mining: Integration of genomic data with demogenetic and biophysical modelling
Authors: Diaz‐Recio Lorenzo Coral , Tran Lu Y Adrien , Brunner Otis , Arbizu Pedro Martínez , Jollivet Didier , Laurent Stefan , Gollner Sabine
Published: April 2024

Copepoda is the most abundant taxon in deep‐sea hydrothermal vents, where hard substrate is available. Despite the increasing interest in seafloor massive sulphides exploitation, there have been no population genomic studies conducted on vent meiofauna, which are known to contribute over 50% to metazoan biodiversity at vents. To bridge this knowledge gap, restriction‐site‐associated DNA sequencing, specifically 2b‐RADseq, was used to retrieve thousands of genome‐wide single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) from abundant populations of the vent‐obligate copepod Stygiopontius lauensis from the Lau Basin. SNPs were used to investigate population structure, demographic histories and genotype–environment associations at a basin scale. Genetic analyses also helped to evaluate the suitability of tailored larval dispersal models and the parameterization of life‐history traits that better fit the population patterns observed in the genomic dataset for the target organism. Highly structured populations were observed on both spatial and temporal scales, with divergence of populations between the north, mid, and south of the basin estimated to have occurred after the creation of the major transform fault dividing the Australian and the Niuafo'ou tectonic plate (350 kya), with relatively recent secondary contact events (<20 kya). Larval dispersal models were able to predict the high levels of structure and the highly asymmetric northward low‐level gene flow observed in the genomic data. These results differ from most studies conducted on megafauna in the region, elucidating the need to incorporate smaller size when considering site prospecting for deep‐sea exploitation of seafloor massive sulphides, and the creation of area‐based management tools to protect areas at risk of local extinction, should mining occur.
Characterization of patients with aHUS and associated triggers or clinical conditions: A Global aHUS Registry analysis
Authors: Licht Christoph , Al‐Dakkak Imad , Anokhina Katerina , Isbel Nicole , Frémeaux‐Bacchi Véronique , Gilbert Rodney D. , Greenbaum Larry A. , Ariceta Gema , Ardissino Gianluigi , Schaefer Franz , Rondeau Eric
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Atypical haemolytic uremic syndrome (aHUS) is a rare form of thrombotic microangiopathy (TMA) associated with complement dysregulation; aHUS may be associated with other ‘triggers’ or ‘clinical conditions’. This study aimed to characterize this patient population using data from the Global aHUS Registry, the largest collection of real‐world data on patients with aHUS.

Methods

Patients enrolled in the Global aHUS Registry between April 2012 and June 2021 and with recorded aHUS‐associated triggers or clinical conditions prior/up to aHUS onset were analysed. aHUS was diagnosed by the treating physician. Data were classified by age at onset of aHUS (< or ≥18 years) and additionally by the presence/absence of identified pathogenic complement genetic variant(s) and/or anti‐complement factor H (CFH) antibodies. Genetically/immunologically untested patients were excluded.

Results

1947 patients were enrolled in the Global aHUS Registry by June 2021, and 349 (17.9%) met inclusion criteria. 307/349 patients (88.0%) had a single associated trigger or clinical condition and were included in the primary analysis. Malignancy was most common (58/307, 18.9%), followed by pregnancy and acute infections (both 53/307, 17.3%). Patients with an associated trigger or clinical condition were generally more likely to be adults at aHUS onset.

Conclusion

Our analysis suggests that aHUS‐associated triggers or clinical conditions may be organized into clinically relevant categories, and their presence does not exclude the concurrent presence of pathogenic complement genetic variants and/or anti‐CFH antibodies. Considering a diagnosis of aHUS with associated triggers or clinical conditions in patients presenting with TMA may allow faster and more appropriate treatment.

image
Glucose breath test for the detection of small intestine bacterial overgrowth: Impact of diet prior to the test
Authors: Mattio Nastasia , Pradat Pierre , Machon Christelle , Mialon Anne , Roman Sabine , Cuerq Charlotte , Mion François
Published: April 2024

Background

Glucose breath test (GBT) is used for the diagnosis of small intestine bacterial overgrowth. A restrictive diet without fibers and/or fermentable food is recommended on the day before the test. The aim of our retrospective study was to evaluate the impact of two different restrictive diets on the results of GBT.

Methods

A change of the pretest restrictive diet was applied in our lab on September 1, 2020. The recommended diet was a fiber‐free diet before this date, and a fiber‐free diet plus restriction of all fermentable food afterward. We thus compared the results of GBT performed before (group A) and after (group B) this pretest diet modification. Demographics, reasons to perform GBT, digestive symptoms, and hydrogen and methane baseline values and variations after glucose ingestion were compared between the two groups.

Key Results

269 patients underwent GBT in group A, and 316 patients in group B. The two groups were comparable in terms of demographics. Methane and hydrogen baseline values were significantly higher in group A (respectively 14 [18] vs. 8 [14] ppm, p < 0.01 and 11 [14] vs. 6 [8] ppm, p < 0.01). The percentage of positive tests was higher in group A for methane (43% vs. 28%, p < 0.05), and for hydrogen (18% vs. 12%, p = 0.03).

Conclusion & Inferences

This retrospective study suggests the importance of the restrictive diet prior to GBT. A strict limitation of fibers and fermentable food decreased hydrogen and methane baseline values, and the prevalence of positive GBT. Thus a strict restrictive diet should be recommended on the day before the test, in order to limit the impact of food on hydrogen and methane breath levels, and possibly improve the diagnosis quality of GBT.
Dissociative identity disorder in the dental setting: An assessment of the literature and case report
Authors: Pindoria Anushri , Radia Shenal , Stagnell Sami
Published: April 2024

There is an ever‐increasing chance that dentists are likely to experience patients who need additional management for psychiatric disorders. Dissociative identity disorder (DID) is characterised by the presence of two or more distinct personality states or identity fragments that control an individual's behaviour, thoughts and emotions. The aim is to offer additional insights into patients with DID and their management within a dental care setting. This will be demonstrated through the use of a case report as a practical illustration. In order to gain insight into the effects of DID on healthcare, particularly within a dental care environment, a comprehensive review of relevant literature has been conducted by searching, evaluating and synthesising existing academic and scholarly literature on DID. Additionally, the case reported is an example of how a 27‐year‐old patient with DID has been managed in an Intermediate Minor Oral Surgery setting. Patients often have their DID prompted by stress, as was the case with this patient. There are steps which can be taken in the dental setting to help reduce the patient's anxiety, understand their personalities and foresee any possible issues that could arise. In this case, intravenous sedation was used to extract the patient's wisdom teeth, and no other personalities presented during the procedure. The examination of existing literature along with a case report highlights the feasibility of effectively treating individuals with DID. This can be achieved through the careful recognition and handling of different personalities, triggers and potential challenges, all of which should be integrated into the treatment strategy.
Simple reflection exercises can build efficacy and reduce distress about relationship conflicts
Authors: Britton Emily M. , Marigold Denise C. , McGregor Ian
Published: April 2024

Serious conflicts in close personal relationships can be highly distressing and tempting to ignore, but avoidance of conflict is maladaptive. In the present research, we tested the effectiveness of short conflict‐reflection interventions to promote constructive engagement with conflicts. In Study 1 (N = 358), a relatively unstructured, conflicted‐reflection intervention significantly reduced distress and bolstered confidence in partners' ability to resolve their relationship conflicts. Study 2 (N = 411) further revealed that this intervention was as, or nearly as effective as more elaborate interventions that prescribed specific, theory‐based, therapeutic elements. Together, results reveal that even brief episodes of constructive reflection on relationship conflicts can improve confidence and reduce distress about them. The positive effects of a relatively unstructured reflection suggest people already have adaptive intuitions about how to more effectively manage conflicts in their relationships and can benefit from brief reflections on how to apply them.
The will to consensus
Authors: Kwesi Richmond
Published: April 2024

In a democracy, when a group of deliberators have a set of differing (and contrary) views and beliefs about a particular policy or action, p, a recommended course of action is for them to pursue, and ultimately reach, a consensus on p. The pursuit of consensus allows deliberators to ‘reach over the aisle’ in accommodating dissenting views through rational dialogue until a consensual agreement is reached by all the deliberators. What fuels this pursuit of consensus is the ‘will to consensus’—a ‘frame of mind’ or a ‘disposition’ to resolve disagreements into a consensus. In this paper, I will raise some conceptual problems with positing a ‘will to consensus’ that is prior to, and supervenes on, the rational discussion of deliberators. Instead of a ‘will to consensus’, democratic theorists should be content with the minimal claim of a ‘will to dialogue’.
Transcriptional dynamics in source‐sink tissues identifies molecular factors regulating the corm development process in saffron (Crocus sativus L.)
Authors: Jose‐Santhi Joel , Sheikh Firdous Rasool , Kalia Diksha , Sood Riya , Kumar Ravi , Acharya Vishal , Singh Rajesh Kumar
Published: April 2024

Aims

Geophytic plants have evolved to develop underground storage organs (USO) in the active growing season to withstand harsh environments as well as to coordinate growth and reproduction when conditions are favourable. Saffron is an autumn flowering geophyte and an expensive spice crop restricted to certain geographical locations in the world. Saffron, being sterile, does not produce seeds and thus propagates only through corms, the quality of which determines its yield. Corm development in saffron is unexplored and the underlying molecular mechanism is still elusive. In this study, we performed an extensive characterisation of the transcriptional dynamics in the source (leaf) and sink (corm) tissues during corm development in saffron.

Key results

Via morphological and transcriptome studies, we identified molecular factors regulating corm development process in saffron, which defined corm development into three stages: the initiation stage demonstrates enhanced vegetative growth aboveground and swelling of shoot base belowground due to active cell division & carbohydrate storage; the bulking stage comprises of increased source and sink strength, active photosynthesis, circadian gating and starch accumulation; the maturation stage represents reduced source and sink strength, lowered photosynthesis, sugar transport, starch synthesis and cell cycle arrest.

Utility

The global view of transcriptional changes in source and sink identifies similar and new molecular factors involved in the saffron corm development process compared to USO formation in other geophytes and provides a valuable resource for dissecting the molecular network underlying the corm development. We propose a hypothetical model based on data analysis, of how molecular factors via environmental cues can regulate the corm development process in saffron.