bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Position statement: Recommendations on the diagnosis and treatment of Malassezia folliculitis
Authors: Henning M. A. S. , Hay R. , Rodriguez‐Cerdeira C. , Szepietowski J. C. , Piraccini B. M. , Ferreirós M. P. , Arabatzis M. , Sergeev A. , Nenoff P. , Kotrekhova L. , Nowicki R. J. , Faergemann J. , Padovese V. , Prohic A. , Skerlev M. , Schmid‐Grendelmeier P. , Sigurgeirsson B. , Gaitanis G. , Lecerf P. , Saunte D. M. L.
Published: March 2023

Malassezia is a lipophilic yeast that is a part of the human mycobiome. Malassezia folliculitis appears when the benign colonization of the hair follicles, by the Malassezia yeasts, becomes symptomatic with pruritic papules and pustules. Although Malassezia folliculitis is common in hospital departments, diagnosing and treating it varies among dermatologists and countries. The European Academy of Dermatology and Venereology Mycology Task Force Malassezia folliculitis working group has, therefore, sought to develop these recommendations for the diagnosis and management of Malassezia folliculitis. Recommendations comprise methods for diagnosing Malassezia folliculitis, required positive findings before starting therapies and specific treatment algorithms for individuals who are immunocompetent, immunocompromised or who have compromised liver function. In conclusion, this study provides a clinical strategy for diagnosing and managing Malassezia folliculitis.
Anomie, gender, and inequality: Developing sociological theory of singlehood from Japanese experiences
Authors: Yoshida Akiko
Published: March 2023

The increase in the number of never‐married and not‐cohabiting singles, or “effective singles,” was first observed in Japan and Southern Europe. In Northern and Western Europe and North America, increased singlehood was due largely to increased cohabitation. Existing sociological theories of singlehood, however, are formulated based on the observations of the latter, and fall short in explaining why more individuals remain unpartnered. The wealth of data from singlehood research in Japan suggest that many singles desire marriage yet drift into singlehood, facing structural, cultural barriers in a rapidly changing social context. The impact of gender inequality is salient, but existing theories focus on women's advancement and egalitarianism. This paper proposes an alternative theoretical framework for explaining causes of singlehood, incorporating sociological and feminist perspectives and Emile Durkheim's theory of anomie, and calls for shifting the center to observations from non‐Western societies for better theorization.
Angiotensin‐converting enzymes as druggable features of psychiatric and neurodegenerative disorders
Authors: Santiago Thays Calista , Parra Larissa , Nani João V. , Fidalgo Thiago M. , Bradshaw Nicholas J. , Hayashi Mirian A. F.
Published: March 2023

The renin‐angiotensin system (RAS) plays essential roles in maintaining peripheral cardiovascular homeostasis, with its potential roles in the brain only being recognized more recently. Angiotensin‐I‐converting enzyme (ACE) is the main component of the RAS, and it has been implicated in various disorders of the brain. ACE and other RAS components, including the related enzyme ACE2, angiotensin peptides and their respective receptors, can participate in the pathological state, as well as with potential to contribute to neuroprotection and/or to complement existing treatments for psychiatric illness. In this narrative review, we aimed to identify the main studies describing the functions of the RAS and ACEs in the brain and their association with brain disorders. These include neurodegenerative disorders such as Parkinson's and Alzheimer's diseases, psychiatric illnesses such as schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and depression. We also discuss the possible association of a functional polymorphism of theACEgene with these brain diseases and the relevance of the neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory properties of ACE inhibitors (ACEis) and angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs). Based on this, we conclude that there is significant potential value to the inclusion of ACEis and/or ARBs as a novel integrated approach for the treatment of various disorders of the brain, and particularly for psychiatric illness.

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Effect of high fat diet on maternal behavior, brain‐derived neurotrophic factor and neural stem cell proliferation in mice expressing human placental lactogen during pregnancy
Authors: Moazzam Showall , Noorjahan Noshin , Jin Yan , Nagy James I. , Kardami Elissavet , Cattini Peter A.
Published: March 2023

Maternal obesity is a serious health concern because it increases risks of neurological disorders, including anxiety and peripartum depression. In mice, a high fat diet (HFD) in pregnancy can negatively affect placental structure and function as well as maternal behavior reflected by impaired nest building and pup‐retrieval. In humans, maternal obesity in pregnancy is associated with reduced placental lactogen (PL) gene expression, which has been linked to a higher risk of depression. PL acting predominantly through the prolactin receptor maintains energy homeostasis and is a marker of placenta villous trophoblast differentiation during pregnancy. Impaired neurogenesis and low serum levels of brain‐derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) have also been implicated in depression. Augmented neurogenesis in brain during pregnancy was reported in the subventricular zone (SVZ) of mice at gestation day 7 and linked to increased prolactin receptor signaling. Here, we used transgenic CD‐1 mice that express human (h) PL during pregnancy to investigate whether the negative effects of diet on maternal behavior are mitigated in these (CD‐1[hGH/PL]) mice. Specifically, we examined the effect of a HFD on nest building prepartum and pup retrieval postpartum, as well as on brain BDNF levels and neurogenesis. In contrast to wild‐type CD‐1[WT]mice, CD‐1[hGH/PL] mice displayed significantly less anxiety‐like behavior, and showed no impairment in prepartum nest building or postpartum pup‐retrieval when fed a HFD. Furthermore, the HFD decreased prepartum and increased postpartum BDNF levels in CD‐1[WT] but not CD‐1[hGH/PL] mice. Finally, neurogenesis in the SVZ as well as phosphorylated mitogen‐activated protein kinase, indicative of lactogenic signaling, appeared unaffected by pregnancy and diet at gestation day 7 in CD‐1[hGH/PL] mice. These observations indicate that CD‐1[hGH/PL] mice are resistant to the negative effects of HFD reported for CD‐1[WT] mice, including effects on maternal behaviors and BDNF levels, and potentially, neurogenesis. This difference probably reflects a direct or indirect effect of the products of the hGH/PL transgene.
A materialist take on minoritization, emancipation, and language revitalization: Occitan sociolinguistics since the 1970s
Authors: Costa James
Published: March 2023

This paper introduces and discusses Occitan sociolinguistics as it evolved from the 1970s onward as a theory of language contact as conflict. It was developed in conjunction with its Catalan counterpart and as a reaction to Joshua Fishman's allocational model of diglossia, and came as a response to conditions of swift social and linguistic change in Southern France after the Second World War. This model, proposed mainly at first by Robèrt Lafont in Montpelhièr, is strongly materialist in that it focuses on the material conditions of language production and replaces the language movement among other social struggles. This paper first explores the roots of the contemporary Occitan movement and its links with the birth of Occitan sociolinguistics. It then analyzes key concepts in Occitan sociolinguistics such as diglossic ideology as essential to understand processes of minoritization, linguistic alienation, and social domination. Finally, it looks at how this approach conceptualizes language revitalization not as a linguistic issue but as a social one and suggests that Occitan sociolinguistics provides an alternative to models of language loss and revival rooted in cultural and identity politics.
Exceptional features of the embryonic ontogeny of a direct‐developing Robber frog
Authors: Salica M. J. , Goldberg J. , Akmentins M. S. , Candioti F. Vera
Published: March 2023

In frogs, the loss of the free‐living tadpole stage implies deep transformations in morphology and development, and the result is a combination of traits exclusive to direct development with the reduction or absence of typically larval features. Two traits stand out in terraranans, a mostly Neotropical clade with ca. 1200 species known or suspected to have direct development: (1) the development of forelimbs, which unlike in tadpoles and in several unrelated direct‐developing lineages, in this clade is described to occur completely exposed during ontogeny, and (2) the reduction of gills and their physiological replacement by highly vascularized tails for gas exchange. In this contribution, we report unusual aspects of the embryonic ontogeny in the Confused Robber frog Oreobates berdemenos, which complicate the interpretation of morphological diversity in Terrarana and in direct‐developing frogs in general. First, forelimbs develop initially entirely concealed by a larval operculum. Second, tail fins develop dorsal and ventral to the tail muscular core but their arrangement changes to lateral during ontogeny. Third, the expansion of the tail fins appears to be a plastic character whose variation likely responds to individual conditions of humidity and/or oxygenation of each egg within the clutch. Finally, we report cells with the morphology of hatching gland cells in the rostral region of embryos at stages about to hatch. If not vestigial, these cells could assist the egg tooth, which is characteristic of terraranans, with chemical softening of the egg capsules during hatching.
Electoral Incentives and Geographical Representation: Evidence from an Italian Electoral Reform
Authors: Viganò Edoardo Alberto
Published: March 2023

Candidate‐centered electoral systems create incentives for MPs to cultivate a personal vote among their constituents, which in turn should strengthen geographical representation. However, existing research has missed the theoretical distinction between the selection and incentives effects of electoral systems. Electoral rules influence who successfully runs for office (selection) and MPs' behavior once they have been elected (incentives). Focusing on the 2005 Italian electoral reform from a mixed to a proportional system, this article assesses the effects of the electoral system change on reelected MPs' attention to local issues in parliamentary questions and bills. The dual source of variation in electoral incentives (mixed system and reform) provides a unique opportunity to disentangle the impact of incentives and selection on MPs' behavior. Contrary to expectations, the results indicate that MPs formerly elected in single‐member districts (SMDs) did not significantly decrease their attention to local issues after the reform. This suggests that electoral incentives alone are not enough to modify significantly the behavior of MPs experiencing the institutional change and that selection effects should be taken more into account when considering the impact of electoral systems. By differentiating two mechanisms through which electoral rules influence legislators' behavior, this finding contributes new knowledge to the ongoing debate about the consequences of electoral institutions and reforms.
A learning experience elicits sex‐dependent neurogenomic responses in Bicyclus anynana butterflies
Authors: Ernst David A. , Agcaoili Gabrielle A. , Merrill Abbigail N. , Westerman Erica L.
Published: March 2023

Sexually dimorphic behaviour is pervasive across animals, with males and females exhibiting different mate selection, parental care, foraging, dispersal, and territorial strategies. However, the genetic underpinnings of sexually dimorphic behaviours are poorly understood. Here we investigate gene networks and expression patterns associated with sexually dimorphic imprinting‐like learning in the butterfly Bicyclus anynana. In this species, both males and females learn visual preferences, but learn preferences for different traits and use different signals as salient, unconditioned cues. To identify genes and gene networks associated with this behaviour, we examined gene expression profiles of the brains and eyes of male and female butterflies immediately post training and compared them to the same tissues of naïve individuals. We found more differentially expressed genes and a greater number of associated gene networks in the eyes, indicating a role of the peripheral nervous system in visual imprinting‐like learning. Females had higher chemoreceptor expression levels than males, supporting the hypothesized sexual dimorphic use of chemical cues during the learning process. In addition, genes that influence B. anynana wing patterns (sexual ornaments), such as invected, spalt, and apterous, were also differentially expressed in the brain and eye, suggesting that these genes may influence both sexual ornaments and the preferences for these ornaments. Our results indicate dynamic and sex‐specific responses to social scenario in both the peripheral and central nervous systems and highlight the potential role of wing patterning genes in mate preference and learning across the Lepidoptera.
Phylogeography of the blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis) throughout the USA identifies candidate loci for differences in vectorial capacity
Authors: Frederick Julia C. , Thompson Alec T. , Sharma Prisha , Dharmarajan Guha , Ronai Isobel , Pesapane Risa , Smith Ryan C. , Sundstrom Kellee D. , Tsao Jean I. , Tuten Holly C. , Yabsley Michael J. , Glenn Travis C.
Published: March 2023

The blacklegged tick (Ixodes scapularis (Journal of the Academy of Natural Sciences of Philadelphia, 1821, 2, 59)) is a vector of Borrelia burgdorferi sensu stricto (s.s.) (International Journal of Systematic Bacteriology, 1984, 34, 496), the causative bacterial agent of Lyme disease, part of a slow‐moving epidemic of Lyme borreliosis spreading across the northern hemisphere. Well‐known geographical differences in the vectorial capacity of these ticks are associated with genetic variation. Despite the need for detailed genetic information in this disease system, previous phylogeographical studies of these ticks have been restricted to relatively few populations or few genetic loci. Here we present the most comprehensive phylogeographical study of genome‐wide markers in I. scapularis, conducted by using 3RAD (triple‐enzyme restriction‐site associated sequencing) and surveying 353 ticks from 33 counties throughout the species' range. We found limited genetic variation among populations from the Northeast and Upper Midwest, where Lyme disease is most common, and higher genetic variation among populations from the South. We identify five spatially associated genetic clusters of I. scapularis. In regions where Lyme disease is increasing in frequency, the I. scapularis populations genetically group with ticks from historically highly Lyme‐endemic regions. Finally, we identify 10 variable DNA sites that contribute the most to population differentiation. These variable sites cluster on one of the chromosome‐scale scaffolds for I. scapularis and are within identified genes. Our findings illuminate the need for additional research to identify loci causing variation in the vectorial capacity of I. scapularis and where additional tick sampling would be most valuable to further understand disease trends caused by pathogens transmitted by I. scapularis.
Apocarotenoids are allosteric effectors of a dimeric plant glycosyltransferase involved in defense and lignin formation
Authors: Sun Guangxin , Liao Jieren , Kurze Elisabeth , Hoffmann Timothy D. , Steinchen Wieland , McGraphery Kate , Habegger Ruth , Marek Ludwig , Catici Dragana A. M. , Ludwig Christina , Jing Tingting , Hoffmann Thomas , Song Chuankui , Schwab Wilfried
Published: March 2023

Glycosyltransferases are nature's versatile tools to tailor the functionalities of proteins, carbohydrates, lipids, and small molecules by transferring sugars. Prominent substrates are hydroxycoumarins such as scopoletin, which serve as natural plant protection agents. Similarly, C13‐apocarotenoids, which are oxidative degradation products of carotenoids/xanthophylls, protect plants by repelling pests and attracting pest predators.

We show that C13‐apocarotenoids interact with the plant glycosyltransferase NbUGT72AY1 and induce conformational changes in the enzyme catalytic center ultimately reducing its inherent UDP‐α‐d‐glucose glucohydrolase activity and increasing its catalytic activity for productive hydroxycoumarin substrates. By contrast, C13‐apocarotenoids show no effect on the catalytic activity toward monolignol lignin precursors, which are competitive substrates.

In vivo studies in tobacco plants (Nicotiana benthamiana) confirmed increased glycosylation activity upon apocarotenoid supplementation. Thus, hydroxycoumarins and apocarotenoids represent specialized damage‐associated molecular patterns, as they each provide precise information about the plant compartments damaged by pathogen attack.

The molecular basis for the C13‐apocarotenoid‐mediated interplay of two plant protective mechanisms and their function as allosteric enhancers opens up potential applications of the natural products in agriculture and pharmaceutical industry.
Acute and long‐term outcomes of quadripolar IS‐4 versus bipolar IS‐1 left ventricular leads in cardiac resynchronization therapy: A retrospective registry study
Authors: Maurhofer Jens , Asatryan Babken , Haeberlin Andreas , Noti Fabian , Roten Laurent , Seiler Jens , Baldinger Samuel H , Franzeck Florian , Lam Anna , Kueffer Thomas , Reichlin Tobias , Tanner Hildegard , Servatius Helge
Published: March 2023

Background

The implantation procedure of left ventricular (LV) leads and the management of cardiac resynchronization therapy (CRT) patients can be challenging. The IS‐4 standard for CRT offers additional pacing vectors compared to bipolar leads (IS‐1). IS‐4 leads improve procedural outcome and may also result in lower adverse events during follow‐up (FU) and improve clinical outcome in CRT patients. Further long‐term FU data comparing the two lead designs are necessary.

Methods

In this retrospective, single‐center study we included adult patients implanted with a CRT‐Defibrillator (CRT‐D) or CRT‐Pacemaker (CRT‐P) with a quadripolar (IS‐4 group) or bipolar (IS‐1 group) LV lead and with available ≥3 years clinical FU. The combined primary endpoint was a combination of predefined, lead‐related adverse events. Secondary endpoints were all single components of the primary endpoint.

Results

Overall, 133 patients (IS‐4 n = 66; IS‐1 n = 67) with a mean FU of 4.03 ± 1.93 years were included. Lead‐related adverse events were less frequent in patients with an IS‐4 lead than with an IS‐1 lead (n = 8, 12.1% vs. n = 23, 34.3%; p = .002). The secondary outcomes showed a lower rate of LV lead deactivation/explantation and LV lead dislodgement/dysfunction (4.5% vs. 22.4%; p = .003; 4.5% vs. 17.9%; p = .015, respectively) in the IS‐4 patient group. Less patients suffered from unresolved phrenic nerve stimulation with an IS‐4 lead (3.0% vs. 13.4%; p = .029). LV lead‐related re‐interventions were fewer in case of an IS‐4 lead (6.1% vs. 17.9%; p = .036).

Conclusion

In this retrospective analysis, the IS‐4 LV lead is associated with lower lead‐related complication rates than the IS‐1 lead at long‐term FU.
Temporal pathways from attachment insecurity to paranoia in a heterogeneous clinical sample: An experience sampling study
Authors: Dančík Daniel , Hajdúk Michal , Januška Jakub , Straková Alexandra , Heretik Anton
Published: March 2023

Introduction

There has been growing interest in the role of attachment mechanisms in the onset and maintenance of paranoia. The latest systematic reviews of mixed samples of healthy individuals and psychiatric patients have revealed that increased trait attachment anxiety and avoidance are associated with experiencing paranoia, with trait attachment anxiety showing a stronger association. Few studies have examined attachment and paranoia in naturalistic conditions via the Experience Sampling Method.

Objectives

The present study examined whether experiences of attachment anxiety and avoidance fluctuate in the flow of daily life, and whether a within‐person change in both attachment states precedes the experience of momentary paranoia, and negative and positive emotions.

Methods

Thirty‐seven clinical participants and twenty‐six healthy controls were studied over six consecutive days using the Experience Sampling Method (ESM). An experience‐in‐close‐relationships questionnaire (ECR‐R 16 SF) was used to capture trait attachment dimensions. Several ESM items were used to capture momentary negative and positive affect, paranoia and attachment insecurity states.

Results

The findings revealed that fluctuations in both attachment insecurity states were significantly higher in the clinical group. A prior elevated attachment anxiety and avoidance was followed by an increase in negative affect in the next moment and elevated attachment avoidance was additionally followed by a decrease in positive affect and an increase in paranoia.

Conclusion

Our findings reveal the specific temporal associations between momentary attachment insecurity states as predictors of change in emotions/affects and paranoia, along with evidence that state attachment avoidance has a superior impact on momentary affect and paranoia compared to state attachment anxiety. These results contrast with those of recent cross‐sectional studies.
Natural variation in salt‐induced root growth phases and their contribution to root architecture plasticity
Authors: van Zelm Eva , Bugallo‐Alfageme Silvia , Behrouzi Pariya , Meyer A. Jessica , Testerink Christa , Gommers Charlotte M. M.
Published: March 2023

The root system architecture of a plant changes during salt stress exposure. Different accessions of Arabidopsis thaliana have adopted different strategies in remodelling their root architecture during salt stress. Salt induces a multiphase growth response in roots, consisting of a stop phase, quiescent phase, recovery phase and eventually a new level of homoeostasis. We explored natural variation in the length of and growth rate during these phases in both main and lateral roots and find that some accessions lack the quiescent phase. Using mathematical models and correlation‐based network, allowed us to correlate dynamic traits to overall root architecture and discover that both the main root growth rate during homoeostasis and lateral root appearance are the strongest determinants of overall root architecture. In addition, this approach revealed a trade‐off between investing in main or lateral root length during salt stress. By studying natural variation in high‐resolution temporal root growth using mathematical modelling, we gained new insights in the interactions between dynamic root growth traits and we identified key traits that modulate overall root architecture during salt stress.
Aging attenuated theta response during multistable perception
Authors: Küçük Kurtuluş Mert , Mathes Birgit , Schmiedt‐Fehr Christina , Başar‐Eroğlu Canan
Published: March 2023

Multistable stimuli are physically unchanging, but elicit spontaneous perceptual reversals between multiple internally generated perceptual alternatives. Perceptual reversal rates seem to decrease in older adults; however, there is no literature on the electrophysiological correlates of this performance decrease. Here, we aimed to identify age‐related changes in theta activity that relate to decreased reversal rates of older adults. Electroencephalography (EEG) of young (n = 15) and older adults (n = 15) was recorded during presentation of stroboscopic alternative motion (SAM) and a control stimulus. Time‐frequency amplitudes were extracted in 4–8 Hz via Morlet wavelet convolution. Older adults had lower SAM reversals as well as decreased accuracy, increased reaction time (RT) and increased RT variability in the control task. In older adults, reversal‐related frontal theta response was diminished, yet parietal theta was intact. In the parietal area, the relationship between theta response and reversal rates was robust, but in the frontal area, was dependent on age‐related variance. Result indicated that, in older adults, top‐down facilitation of perceptual reversals was impaired. This appears to result in a predominantly bottom‐up resolution of perceptual multistability. Age‐related degradation of sensory areas in this bottom‐up‐driven resolution process might have slowed reversals. This study presents the first electrophysiological correlates of age‐related impairment in multistable perceptual integration.
Breaking Patriarchal Succession Cycles: How Land Relations Influence Women's Roles in Farming☆
Authors: Sutherland Lee‐Ann , McKee Annie , Hopkins Jonathan , Hasler Hannah
Published: March 2023

In this paper we assess the relationship between how women access the land they farm, and their farming identities, roles, and future succession plans. Utilizing a Bourdieusian approach, we conceptualize inheritance of farmland as a long‐term process of symbolic and economic investment. We conducted a cohort analysis of women living or working on farms in Scotland, UK who (a) were or were not raised on farms; and (b) bought into or inherited agricultural land (directly or through their spouses). Data comprised on‐line survey responses, qualitative interviews and focus groups. Analysis demonstrated that women who were raised on farms and either inherited farms or established new farms, were more likely to identify themselves as farmers, engage in machinery work and identify female successors. Women who accessed farmland through marriage tended to engage in more home‐making tasks, to identify themselves as farmers' wives, and to occupy larger farms. These largest, potentially most viable farms thus continue to be inherited by men. However, when women inherit farms, a step change occurs, where daughters are much more likely to be identified as future successors. Enabling women raised on farms to inherit and/or establish new farms is thus critical to altering patriarchal succession cycles.
What's your problem? How issue ownership and partisan discourse influence personal concerns
Authors: Junqueira Andrea , Kagalwala Ali , Lipsmeyer Christine S.
Published: March 2023

Objective

Politics around the world has become more divisive. We ask if the influence of far‐right parties extends to personal concerns and argue that a theory combining issue ownership with partisan discourse can explain personal policy salience.

Method

Using aggregate Eurobarometer data, we create compositional models to estimate the effect of partisan discourse on pocketbook policy concerns. We focus on whether these elite messages influence concerns differently depending on the presence of a far‐right party.

Results

We find that more partisan discussion about law‐and‐order issues influences relative personal concerns on security and immigration issues across ideological groups when a far‐right party is present.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that an “issue‐owning” party can alter how people interpret politics and view their own concerns. Far‐right parties influence the perceptions of people across ideologies. Research showed that these parties can influence parties and voters; we show that they can shape personal perceptions.
Class switching is differentially regulated in RBC alloimmunization and vaccination
Authors: Prakash Anupam , Medved Jelena , Arneja Abhinav , Niebuhr Conrad , Li Andria N. , Tarrah Soraya , Boscia Alexis R. , Burnett Emily D. , Singh Aanika , Salazar Juan E. , Xu Wenhao , Santhanakrishnan Manjula , Hendrickson Jeanne E. , Luckey Chance John
Published: March 2023

Background

Studies of human patients have shown that most anti‐RBC alloantibodies are IgG1 or IgG3 subclasses, although it is unclear why transfused RBCs preferentially drive these subclasses over others. Though mouse models allow for the mechanistic exploration of class‐switching, previous studies of RBC alloimmunization in mice have focused more on the total IgG response than the relative distribution, abundance, or mechanism of IgG subclass generation. Given this major gap, we compared the IgG subclass distribution generated in response to transfused RBCs relative to protein in alum vaccination, and determined the role of STAT6 in their generation.

Study Design and Methods

WT mice were either immunized with Alum/HEL‐OVA or transfused with HOD RBCs and levels of anti‐HEL IgG subtypes were measured using end‐point dilution ELISAs. To study the role of STAT6 in IgG class‐switching, we first generated and validated novel STAT6 KO mice using CRISPR/cas9 gene editing. STAT6 KO mice were then transfused with HOD RBCs or immunized with Alum/HEL‐OVA, and IgG subclasses were quantified by ELISA.

Results

When compared with antibody responses to Alum/HEL‐OVA, transfusion of HOD RBCs induced lower levels of IgG1, IgG2b, and IgG2c but similar levels of IgG3. Class switching to most IgG subtypes remained largely unaffected in STAT6 deficient mice in response to HOD RBC transfusion, with the one exception being IgG2b. In contrast, STAT6 deficient mice showed altered levels of all IgG subtypes following Alum vaccination.

Discussion

Our results show that anti‐RBC class‐switching occurs via alternate mechanisms when compared with the well‐studied immunogen alum vaccination.
Manufacturing a Ceramic Turbine Rotor for a Compact Jet Engine
Authors: Leicht Bryan T. , Bohan Brian T. , Schauer Fred , Kemnitz Ryan , Rueschhoff Lisa M. , Lam Benjamin , Kemp James W. , Costakis William
Published: March 2023

Compact military-grade jet engines offer many potential applications, including use in remotely piloted vehicles, but can be expensive to use for research and development purposes. A study aimed at increasing the power and thrust output of an inexpensive commercial compact engine found a material limitation issue in the turbomachinery. To gain the additional power, hotter turbine inlet temperatures were required. This temperature increase exceeded the limit of current uncooled metal turbine rotors but could be achieved through turbine rotors made from ceramics, such as silicon nitride, which would allow an increase in the thrust and power output by a factor of 1.44. Current ceramic turbine manufacturing methods are costly and time-consuming for rapid prototyping, but recent breakthroughs in ceramic additive manufacturing have allowed for cheaper methods and faster production which are beneficial for use in research and development when designs are being rapidly changed and tested. This research demonstrated, through finite element analysis, that a silicon nitride turbine rotor could meet the increased turbine inlet temperature conditions to provide the desired thrust and power increase. Furthermore, as a proof of concept, an additively manufactured drop-in replacement alumina turbine rotor was produced for the JetCat P400 small-scale engine in a manner that was cost-effective, timely, and potentially scalable for production. This compact engine was used to demonstrate that a cost-effective ceramic turbine could be manufactured. At the time of publication, the desired ceramic material, silicon nitride, was not available for additive manufacturing.
Acoustic shock waves emitted from two interacting laser generated plasmas in air
Authors: Elle Manikanta , Guthikonda Nagaraju , Shiva S. Sai , Kiran P. Prem
Published: March 2023

We present an acoustic detection technique to study the interaction of two shock waves emitted by two nearby, simultaneous, laser-induced air-breakdown events that resembles the phenomenon of interaction of fluids. A microphone is employed to detect the acoustic shock wave (ASW) from the interaction zone. The experiments were done at various separation distances between the two plasma sources. The incident laser energy of the sources is varied from 25 to 100 mJ in ratios from 1:1 to 1:4. The peak sound pressure of the ASW was compared between the single and dual plasma sources, showing that the pressures are higher for the dual plasma source than that of the single plasma. The evolution of peak sound pressures is observed to depend on (a) the pulse energy of the sources and (b) the plasma separation distance, d. For the equal energy sources, the peak sound pressures increased linearly up to a certain plasma separation distance d, beyond which the pressures saturated and decayed. For the case of unequal energy sources, the peak sound pressures showed an interesting response of increase, saturation, decay, and further increase with plasma separation distance d. These observations indicate the dynamics of acoustic wave interactions across the interaction zone of the two sources depend on the input laser pulse energy as well as the plasma separation distance d.
Sport (Tourism and) Heritage, Undergraduate Sport Management Degrees, and Remote Teaching: A View From Scotland
Authors: McDowell Matthew L.
Published: March 2023

This essay examines the creation of a new undergraduate module on sport, tourism and heritage, at The University of Edinburgh, one based within the confines of a bachelor’s program in sport management. The author emphasizes that this is part of a growing trend toward integrating heritage (alongside history) into Scottish/U.K. sport management academia, as something which can potentially address skills and employability outcomes while still offering the opportunity to critically discuss issues in the sport industry. The creation, running, format, and content of this module is discussed, within the context of its first being offered remotely in September 2020 in between “lockdowns” during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Efficacy of Omadacycline-Containing Regimen in a Mouse Model of Pulmonary Mycobacteroides abscessus Disease
Authors: Rimal Binayak , Nicklas Danielle A. , Panthi Chandra M. , Lippincott Christopher K. , Belz Daniel C. , Ignatius Elisa H. , Deck Daniel H. , Serio Alisa W. , Lamichhane Gyanu
Published: March 2023

M. abscessus
disease incidence is increasing in the United States. This disease is difficult to cure with existing antibiotics.
Role of Toll-Like Receptor 4 in Mycobacterium avium subsp.
paratuberculosis
Infection of Bovine Mammary Epithelial (MAC-T) Cells
In Vitro
Authors: Shandilya Umesh K. , Wu Xiang , McAllister Caitlin , Mutharia Lucy , Karrow Niel A.
Published: March 2023

Mycobacterium avium
subsp.
paratuberculosis
(MAP) is the causative agent for paratuberculosis or Johne’s disease (JD) in ruminants, a disease clinically very similar to Crohn’s disease in humans. Polymorphisms in the bovine Toll-like receptor genes (
TLR1
,
TLR2
, and
TLR4
) have been shown to affect MAP recognition and host innate immune response and have been associated with increased susceptibility of cattle to paratuberculosis.
Study protocol: peer delivered early intervention (Learning through Everyday Activities with Parents for Infants at risk of Cerebral Palsy: LEAP-CP) for First Nation Australian infants at high risk of cerebral palsy – an RCT study
Authors: Benfer Katherine , Boyd Roslyn N , Roe Yvette , Fagan Ruth , Luke Carly , Mick-Ramsamy Leeann , Whittingham Koa , Novak Iona , Bosanquet Margot , McNamara Lynda , Khandaker Gulam , Fogarty Lucy , Cadet-James Yvonne , Ruben Alan , Comans Tracy , Smith Anthony , Ware Robert S
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Cerebral palsy (CP) is the most common childhood physical disability with rates approximately 50% higher in First Nations Australian children. This study aims to evaluate a culturally-adapted parent-delivered early intervention programme for First Nations Australian infants at high risk of CP (Learning through Everyday Activities with Parents for infants with CP; LEAP-CP).

Methods and analysis

This study is a randomised assessor masked controlled trial. Infants with birth/postnatal risk factors will be eligible for screening. Infants at high risk of CP (‘absent fidgety’ on General Movements Assessment, and/or ‘suboptimal score’ on the Hammersmith Infant Neurological Examination) aged 12–52 weeks corrected age will be recruited. Infants and their caregivers will be randomised to receive LEAP-CP (intervention) or health advice (comparator). LEAP-CP is a culturally-adapted programme of 30 home visits delivered by a peer trainer (First Nations Community Health Worker); and includes goal-directed active motor/cognitive strategies, CP learning games and caregiver educational modules. The control arm receives a monthly health advice visit, based on the Key Family Practices, WHO. All infants continue to receive standard (mainstream) Care as Usual. Dual child primary outcomes are Peabody Developmental Motor Scales-2 (PDMS-2) and Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III. The primary caregiver outcome is the Depression, Anxiety and Stress Scale. Secondary outcomes include function, goal attainment, vision, nutritional status and emotional availability. Sample size: total of 86 children (43/group) will enable an effect size of 0.65 on the PDMS-2 to be detected (80% power, α=0.05; 10% attrition).

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval through Queensland ethics committees and Aboriginal Controlled Community Health Organisation Research Governance Groups, with families providing written informed consent. Findings will be disseminated with guidance from the Participatory Action Research, in collaboration with First Nations communities; peer-reviewed journal publications and national/international conference presentations.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12619000969167p.
Multivariable prediction models for atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Fields Kara G , Ma Jie , Petrinic Tatjana , Alhassan Hassan , Eze Anthony , Reddy Ankith , Hedayat Mona , Providencia Rui , Lip Gregory Y H , Bedford Jonathan P , Clifton David A , Redfern Oliver C , O’Brien Benjamin , Watkinson Peter J , Collins Gary S , Muehlschlegel Jochen D
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Dozens of multivariable prediction models for atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery (AFACS) have been published, but none have been incorporated into regular clinical practice. One of the reasons for this lack of adoption is poor model performance due to methodological weaknesses in model development. In addition, there has been little external validation of these existing models to evaluate their reproducibility and transportability. The aim of this systematic review is to critically appraise the methodology and risk of bias of papers presenting the development and/or validation of models for AFACS.

Methods

We will identify studies that present the development and/or validation of a multivariable prediction model for AFACS through searches of PubMed, Embase and Web of Science from inception to 31 December 2021. Pairs of reviewers will independently extract model performance measures, assess methodological quality and assess risk of bias of included studies using extraction forms adapted from a combination of the Critical Appraisal and Data Extraction for Systematic Reviews of Prediction Modelling Studies checklist and the Prediction Model Risk of Bias Assessment Tool. Extracted information will be reported by narrative synthesis and descriptive statistics.

Ethics and dissemination

This systemic review will only include published aggregate data, so no protected health information will be used. Study findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and scientific conference presentations. Further, this review will identify weaknesses in past AFACS prediction model development and validation methodology so that subsequent studies can improve upon prior practices and produce a clinically useful risk estimation tool.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42019127329.
Health information use and associated factors among healthcare professionals in Ilu Aba Bor zone, Oromia region, Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study
Authors: Negera Dessalegn , Zewdie Asrat , Kera Abeza Mitiku , Degefa Gutama Haile
Published: March 2023

Background

Health information systems are essential for collecting data for planning, monitoring and evaluating health services. Using reliable information over time is an important aid in improving health outcomes, tackling disparities, enhancing efficiency and encouraging innovation. Studies on the level of health information use among health workers at the health facility level in Ethiopia are limited.

Objectives

This study was designed to assess the level of health information use and associated factors among healthcare professionals.

Methods

An institution-based cross-sectional study was conducted among 397 health workers in health centres in the Iluababor zone of Oromia region in southwest Ethiopia, who were chosen using a simple random sampling technique. Data were collected using a pretested, self-administered questionnaire and an observation checklist. The Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology reporting checklist was used to report the summary of the manuscript. Bivariable and multivariable binary logistic regression analysis was used to identify the determinant factors. Variables with a p value <0.05 at 95% CIs were declared significant.

Results

It was found that 65.8% of the healthcare professionals had good health information usage. Use of Health Management Information System (HMIS) standard materials (adjusted OR (AOR)=8.10; 95% CI 3.51 to 16.58), training on health information (AOR=8.31; 95% CI 4.34 to 14.90), completeness of report formats (AOR=10.24; 95% CI 5.0 to 15.14) and age (AOR=0.4; 95% CI 0.2 to 0.77) were found to be significantly associated with health information use.

Conclusion

More than three-fifths of healthcare professionals had good health information usage. Completeness of report format, training, use of standard HMIS materials and age were significantly associated with health information usage. Ensuring the availability of standard HMIS materials and report completeness and providing training, particularly for newly recruited health workers are highly recommended to enhance health information usage.
Understanding living with tracheostomy ventilation for motor neuron disease and the implications for quality of life: a qualitative study protocol
Authors: Wilson Eleanor , Turner Nicola , Faull Christina , Palmer Jonathan , Turner Martin R , Davidson Scott
Published: March 2023

Introduction

Home mechanical ventilation can be used to manage symptoms of breathlessness and sustain life for people living with motor neuron disease (plwMND). In the UK, less than 1% of plwMND use tracheostomy ventilation (TV). This contrasts with some other countries, where rates are much higher. Due to a lack of evidence about its feasibility, cost-effectiveness or outcomes, TV is not covered in the UK National Institute for Health and Care Excellence guidance. Most plwMND receiving TV in the UK do so as an unplanned crisis intervention, which can lead to a prolonged hospital stay while a complex care package is arranged. There is insufficient literature addressing the burdens and benefits of TV, how it should be initiated and delivered, and how future care choices for plwMND can be supported. The aim of this research is to provide new understandings of the experiences of plwMND using TV, and those of family members and healthcare professionals (HCPs) involved in their care.

Methods and analysis

A UK-wide qualitative study with two workstreams: (1) Patient focused case studies (n=6) including plwMND, family members and HCPs to focus on experiences and tasks of daily living from multiple perspectives. (2) Interviews with plwMND (n=10), family members, including bereaved family members (n=10) and HCPs (n=20) on broader experiences and issues relating to use of TV, such as ethical considerations and decision making.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval has been granted by the Leicester South Research Ethics Committee (22/EM/0256). All participants will be asked to provide electronic, written and/or audio recorded informed consent. Study findings will be disseminated in peer-reviewed journals and conference presentations and used to develop new resources for teaching and public information.
Implementation of a digital early warning score (NEWS2) in a cardiac specialist and general hospital settings in the COVID-19 pandemic: a qualitative study
Authors: Alhmoud Baneen , Bonicci Timothy , Patel Riyaz , Melley Daniel , Hicks Louise , Banerjee Amitava
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To evaluate implementation of digital National Early Warning Score 2 (NEWS2) in a cardiac care setting and a general hospital setting in the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design

Thematic analysis of qualitative semistructured interviews using the non-adoption, abandonment, scale-up, spread, sustainability framework with purposefully sampled nurses and managers, as well as online surveys from March to December 2021.

Settings

Specialist cardiac hospital (St Bartholomew’s Hospital) and general teaching hospital (University College London Hospital, UCLH).

Participants

Eleven nurses and managers from cardiology, cardiac surgery, oncology and intensive care wards (St Bartholomew’s) and medical, haematology and intensive care wards (UCLH) were interviewed and 67 were surveyed online.

Results

Three main themes emerged: (1) implementing NEWS2 challenges and supports; (2) value of NEWS2 to alarm, escalate and during the pandemic; and (3) digitalisation: electronic health record (EHR) integration and automation. The value of NEWS2 was partly positive in escalation, yet there were concerns by nurses who undervalued NEWS2 particularly in cardiac care. Challenges, like clinicians’ behaviours, lack of resources and training and the perception of NEWS2 value, limit the success of this implementation. Changes in guidelines in the pandemic have led to overlooking NEWS2. EHR integration and automated monitoring are improvement solutions that are not fully employed yet.

Conclusion

Whether in specialist or general medical settings, the health professionals implementing early warning score in healthcare face cultural and system-related challenges to adopting NEWS2 and digital solutions. The validity of NEWS2 in specialised settings and complex conditions is not yet apparent and requires comprehensive validation. EHR integration and automation are powerful tools to facilitate NEWS2 if its principles are reviewed and rectified, and resources and training are accessible. Further examination of implementation from the cultural and automation domains is needed.