bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An examination of questioning methods and the influence of child maltreatment on paediatric pain assessments: Perspectives of healthcare providers
Authors: Baker Matthew , Campbell Sarah , Patel Krupali , McWilliams Kelly , Williams Shanna
Published: December 2023

Aims and Objectives

Children with a history of maltreatment have underestimated and undertreated pain; however, it is unknown if healthcare providers consider maltreatment when assessing children's pain. The current study aimed to address this issue by investigating healthcare providers' pain assessment practices, and specifically, their consideration of child maltreatment.

Method

Healthcare providers (N = 100) completed a survey, asking them to reflect upon their pediatric pain assessment practices (e.g., methods and questions used to assess pain) through self‐report and case vignette questions.

Results

Participants who received continuing education about child maltreatment were more likely to consider maltreatment in several areas of their pediatric pain assessment practice, whereas participants who received continuing education about pediatric pain, were not. Participants were also more likely to report that they would consider maltreatment in vignette responses than in questions regarding their daily practice.

Conclusion

Findings indicate healthcare providers use multidimensional methods when assessing children's pain, although it is unclear when or how they use open‐ended vs. option posing questions. Healthcare providers also tended to consider the effects of child maltreatment on children's ability to communicate their pain more so when the history of maltreatment was known to them.
Establishment of aTaqManprobe‐basedqPCRassay for detecting microsporidiaEnterospora epinepheliin grouper
Authors: Liu Quan‐lin , Wang Yuan , Chen Jie , Pan Guo‐qing , Yue Yan‐Feng , Zhou Ze‐Yang , Fang Wen‐hong
Published: December 2023

Enterospora epinepheliis an intranuclear microsporidian parasite causing serious emaciative disease in hatchery‐bred juvenile groupers (Epinephelusspp.). Rapid and sensitive detection is urgently needed as its chronic infection tends to cause emaciation as well as white faeces syndrome and results in fry mortality. This study established a TaqMan probe‐based real‐time quantitative PCR assays targeting the small subunit rRNA (SSU) gene ofE. epinepheli.The relationship between the standard curve of cycle threshold (Ct) and the logarithmic starting quantity (SQ) was determined as Ct = −3.177 lg (SQ) + 38.397. The correlation coefficient (R2) was 0.999, and the amplification efficiency was 106.4%. The detection limit of the TaqMan probe‐based qPCR assay was 1.0 × 101copies/μL and that is 100 times sensitive than the traditional PCR method. There is no cross‐reaction with other aquatic microsporidia such asEcytonucleospora hepatopenaei,Nucleospora hippocampi,Potasporasp.,Ameson portunus.The intra‐assay and inter‐assay showed great repeatability and reproducibility. In addition, the test of clinical samples showed that this assay effectively detectedE. epinepheliin the grouper's intestine tissue. The established TaqMan qPCR assays will be a valuable diagnostic tool for the epidemiological investigation as well as prevention and control ofE. epinepheli.
Practical application of the Crohn's disease exclusion diet as therapy in an adult Australian population
Authors: Russell Erin E , Day Alice Sarah , Dimitroff Claire , Trakman Gina L , Silva Hannah , Bryant Robert V , Purcell Liz , Yao Chu K , Landorf Emma , Fitzpatrick Jessica A
Published: December 2023

There is demand from patients and clinicians to use the Crohn's disease exclusion diet (CDED) with or without partial enteral nutrition (PEN). However, the therapeutic efficacy and nutritional adequacy of this therapy are rudimentary in an adult population. This review examines the evidence for the CDED in adults with active luminal Crohn's disease and aims to provide practical guidance on the use of the CDED in Australian adults. A working group of nine inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) dietitians of DECCAN (Dietitians Crohn's and Colitis Australian Network) and an IBD gastroenterologist was established. A literature review was undertaken to examine (1) clinical indications, (2) monitoring, (3) dietary adequacy, (4) guidance for remission phase, and (5) diet reintroduction after therapy. Each diet phase was compared with Australian reference ranges for food groups and micronutrients. CDED with PEN is nutritionally adequate for adults containing sufficient energy and protein and meeting > 80% of the recommended daily intake of key micronutrients. An optimal care pathway for the clinical use of the CDED in an adult population was developed with accompanying consensus statements, clinician toolkit, and patient education brochure. Recommendations for weaning from the CDED to the Australian dietary guidelines were developed. The CDED + PEN provides an alternate partial food‐based therapy for remission induction of active luminal Crohn's disease in an adult population. The CDED + PEN should be prioritized over CDED alone and prescribed by a specialist IBD dietitian. DECCAN cautions against using the maintenance diet beyond 12 weeks until further evidence becomes available.
Mortality rates among older female caregivers: Considering what counts and what matters
Authors: Dillon Ellis C. , Berg Karina M.
Published: December 2023

This editorial comments on the article by Chavan et al in this issue.
Loss of subcutaneous fat in 20 patients, both sexes, using a second‐generation TECAR device of 1.240 Watts and results analyzed with magnetic resonance
Authors: Rodríguez Lastra Jesús , Cardona Yazmin García
Published: December 2023

Background

Body contouring and abdominal fat loss without surgery are increasingly used technique. In a study in pigs, it is noted that both capacitive and resistive radiofrequency stimulation reduced subcutaneous fat. One human study demonstrated a loss of 2.90 cm in waist diameter. Second‐generation TECAR (Acronym for Transfer Electric Capacitive and Resistive) device with 4 channels, 200 cm2 work area per channel, and high power (1240 W), regulates body energy input by measuring absorption in the body and adjusting the power for 80 min at 50°C.

Aims

To evaluate the loss of subcutaneous fat, this magnitude was measured in grams and centimeters throughout the abdomen by MRI before and after each treatment.

Subject and Methods

We have studied 25 patients, 13 women and 12 men with a mean age of 49 years. All patients had their waist diameter measured and an MRI performed before and after 10 continuous sessions except Saturday and Sunday, over 2 weeks. Additionally, a lipid profile was performed on the same day of the study and at the end of it. The study was approved by the Ethics Committee.

Results

Waist diameter decreased by 5.5 cm, these differences being statistically significant (p = 0.000). Subcutaneous fat measured by MRI in cm decreased by 784 cm (p = 0.000). In grams, it decreased 808.7 g (p = 0.000). In the lipid profile, all the values decreased, but they were not statistically significant.

Conclusions

The use of this second generation of TECAR equipment at 1 MHz decreases the waist diameter by more than 5 cm and leads to the loss of more than 800 grams of subcutaneous fat in 12 days. It is a method without risks or side effects, well tolerated, and an alternative for those patients who do not want to go to the operating room.
Botulinium toxin applications in the lower face and neck: A comprehensive review
Authors: Kassir Martin , Babaei Mahsa , Hasanzadeh Saba , Rezaei Tavirani Mostafa , Razzaghi Zahra , Robati Reza M.
Published: December 2023

Background

Botulinum toxin has been widely and mainly used for the treatment of conditions affecting the upper and middle face; however, recent efforts have expanded the indications of botulinum toxin injection to the lower face and neck areas for cosmetic and medical purposes.

Aims

We have reviewed the latest updates on using botulinum toxin in the lower face and neck focusing on cosmetic purposes and have discussed the existing concerns as well as the adverse sequelae of these newer indications.

Patients/Methods

A comprehensive literature search was performed using the following keywords [[botulinum] AND [[Toxin] OR [Neurotoxin]]] AND [[Lower AND Face] AND/OR [Neck]] within the main databases including Web of Science, PubMed, Embase and gray literature on and before February 2023. The data were screened using titles and abstracts and those relevant to the topic were included in the paper.

Results

Botulinum toxin injection has considerable cosmetic and therapeutic effect on facial contouring, masseteric hypertrophy, lower face and neck scars, gummy smile, drooping lip corner and even skin rejuvenation.

Conclusion

BNT injection has been widely used for the treatment of different medical and cosmetic purposes. Low rates of side effects, which were self‐limited in most cases, have been reported in the literature, making BNT a safe therapeutic medication in most cases. However, regulatory status needs to be updated and more accurately revised in many countries and more comprehensive research is required to address the existing gaps in this area including the site, dosage, and method of injection in each case.
Selective and (mis)leading economics journals: Meta‐research evidence
Authors: Askarov Zohid , Doucouliagos Anthony , Doucouliagos Hristos , Stanley T. D.
Published: December 2023

We assess statistical power and excess statistical significance among 31 leading economics general interest and field journals using 22,281 parameter estimates from 368 distinct areas of economics research. Median statistical power in leading economics journals is very low (only 7%), and excess statistical significance is quite high (19%). Power this low and excess significance this high raise serious doubts about the credibility of economics research. We find that 26% of all reported results have undergone some process of selection for statistical significance and 56% of statistically significant results were selected to be statistically significant. Selection bias is greater at the top five journals, where 66% of statistically significant results were selected to be statistically significant. A large majority of empirical evidence reported in leading economics journals is potentially misleading. Results reported to be statistically significant are about as likely to be misleading as not (falsely positive) and statistically nonsignificant results are much more likely to be misleading (falsely negative). We also compare observational to experimental research and find that the quality of experimental economic evidence is notably higher.
Justice for me and for all: Longitudinal analysis of justice perceptions across demographic indicators
Authors: Thomas Kendra J. , Rodrigues Herbert , Komatsu André V.
Published: December 2023

Most research on justice perceptions stems from high‐income contexts, even though most youth grow up in contexts of inequality and injustice. This study examines the development of justice perceptions in 659 Brazilian adolescents (51.3% male; 45.2% White) in São Paulo across 3 years, ages 12, 13, and 14. Perceptions of justice of the world declined with age and perceived justice in one's personal life differed across ethnic, economic, and educational groups. Privileged groups differentiated more between their evaluations of the world and their personal lives. K‐means clustering revealed five trajectories of justice beliefs, which significantly differed across school type, race/ethnicity, and income levels. Evidence suggests that personal belief in a just world reflects known social group inequalities.
Finitude, Necessity, and Healing from Despair in Kierkegaard's The Lily and the Bird
Authors: Strelis Söderquist Anna Louise
Published: December 2023

This study underscores The Lily and the Bird's response to despair in The Sickness unto Death. By suggesting in The Lily and the Bird that we look to nature's creatures to learn an attunement and responsiveness to our situation as physical creatures subject to finite constraints, Kierkegaard's text comes into dialogue with a form of misalignment portrayed in The Sickness unto Death as a refusal of the given, “the finite,” and “the necessary.” One way of seeking alignment in The Lily and the Bird entails learning to hear and to answer within one's given environment, opening up the possibility of embodied joy.
Speciation and conservation genetic assessment of two endangered cycad species
Authors: Feng Xiu‐Yan , Gong Yi‐Qing , Nguyen Khang Sinh , Nguyen Hiep Tien , Liu Yong‐Bo , Liu Jian , Gong Xun
Published: December 2023

Understanding the driving forces of speciation is a central question in evolutionary biology. Cycas bifida (Dyer) K. D. Hill and Cycas micholitzii Dyer are two morphologically similar Cycas (Cycadaceae) species with deeply pectinate megasporophylls and dichotomously divided leaflets. Geographically, they are isolated by the Red River Fault Zone (RRFZ), which acts as a biogeographical barrier for many Cycas species. In this study, we investigated the divergence, genetic diversity, genetic structure, and demographic history of C. bifida and C. micholitzii to uncover the speciation mechanisms for the two endangered species. Results revealed high historical gene flow but low contemporary gene flow between the two species, with a deep divergence occurring in the Late Miocene. The long‐term geographical isolation and ecological niche differentiation were identified as important factors in driving the divergence of the two species, supported by significant isolation by distance testing, barrier analysis, and niche consistency detection. Geographical isolation by the RRFZ played a pivotal role in facilitating their divergence by constraining gene flow. Conservation genetic analyses indicated high genetic diversity within both species, coupled with disparate responses to Pleistocene climate fluctuations: C. micholitzii experienced population expansion, while C. bifida displayed a mild bottleneck effect. To ensure the protection and long‐term sustainability of two threatened species, relevant conservation guidelines were proposed based on the assessment of their genetic diversity and structure. This study furnishes valuable insights into the mechanisms underpinning species divergence and delivers actionable recommendations for cycad conservation.
Long‐term influence of sleep/wake history on the dynamic neurobehavioural response to sustained sleep restriction
Authors: Banks Siobhan , Jones Christopher W. , McCauley Mark E. , Dorrian Jillian , Basner Mathias , Maislin Greg , Van Dongen Hans P. A. , Dinges David F.
Published: December 2023

Chronic sleep restriction, common in today's 24/7 society, causes cumulative neurobehavioural impairment, but the dynamics of the build‐up and dissipation of this impairment have not been fully elucidated. We addressed this knowledge gap in a laboratory study involving two, 5‐day periods of sleep restriction to 4 hr per day, separated by a 1‐day dose–response intervention sleep opportunity. We measured sleep physiological and waking neurobehavioural responses in 70 healthy adults, each randomized to one of seven dose–response intervention sleep doses ranging from 0 to 12 hr, or a non‐sleep‐restricted control group. As anticipated, sleep physiological markers showed homeostatic dynamics throughout the study, and waking neurobehavioural impairment accumulated across the two sleep restriction periods. Unexpectedly, there was only a slight and short‐lived effect of the 1‐day dose–response intervention sleep opportunity. Whether the dose–response intervention sleep opportunity involved extension, further restriction or total deprivation of sleep, neurobehavioural functioning during the subsequent second sleep restriction period was dominated by prior sleep–wake history. Our findings revealed a profound and enduring influence of long‐term sleep–wake history as a fundamental aspect of the dynamic regulation of the neurobehavioural response to sleep loss.
Patterns of admixture and introgression in a mosaic Mytilus galloprovincialis and Mytilus edulis hybrid zone in SW England
Authors: Diz Angel P. , Skibinski David O. F.
Published: December 2023

The study of hybrid zones offers important insights into speciation. Earlier studies on hybrid populations of the marine mussel species Mytilus edulis and Mytilus galloprovincialis in SW England provided evidence of admixture but were constrained by the limited number of molecular markers available. We use 57 ancestry‐informative SNPs, most of which have been mapped genetically, to provide evidence of distinctive differences between admixed populations in SW England and asymmetrical introgression from M. edulis to M. galloprovincialis. We combine the genetic study with analysis of phenotypic traits of potential ecological and adaptive significance. We demonstrate that hybrid individuals have brown mantle edges unlike the white or purple in the parental species, suggesting allelic or non‐allelic genomic interactions. We report differences in gonad development stage between the species consistent with a prezygotic barrier between the species. By incorporating results from publications dating back to 1980, we confirm the long‐term stability of the hybrid zone despite higher viability of M. galloprovincialis. This stability coincides with a dramatic change in temperature of UK coastal waters and suggests that these hybrid populations might be resisting the effects of global warming. However, a single SNP locus associated with the Notch transmembrane signalling protein shows a markedly different pattern of variation to the others and might be associated with adaptation of M. galloprovincialis to colder northern temperatures.
Vanishing academics: On the importance of speed and becoming‐imperceptible
Authors: Turcotte Pier‐Luc , Holmes Dave
Published: December 2023

Under the influence of neoliberalism, academic work faces mounting pressure to align with imperatives of visibility and perceptibility. Traditionally criticised for working in isolated ‘ivory towers’, academics are now compelled to showcase the societal value of their work through performance metrics and evaluations. Paradoxically, these efforts have unintentionally led to the rigidification and commodification of academic work, stifling the production of knowledge beyond predefined parameters. In this paper, we contend that academics should resist the imposition of this neoliberal ‘grid’ and instead seek a path of ‘becoming‐imperceptible’, drawing inspiration from the insights of Deleuze and Guattari. Becoming‐imperceptible does not entail silent disengagement; rather, it represents a creative form of resistance challenging prevailing modes of assessment rooted in visibility and perceptibility. By incorporating the concept of ‘fast feminism’ to subvert Paul Virilio's hypermasculine speed theory, we uncover the transformative potential of temporary absences. Leveraging these moments of absence, academics can intensify their affective connections with both their peers and their work, making them undiscernible to the confines of the academic establishment. We argue that these instances of imperceptibility create fertile ground for creative and inventive academic endeavours on the margins of established boundaries, where original scholarship can flourish. Such a subversive approach is particularly relevant in fields like nursing and the health sciences, where it can challenge the dominant discourses that typify neoliberal academia.
African philosophy and nursing: A potential twain that shall meet?
Authors: Bayuo Jonathan
Published: December 2023

Undoubtedly, the discipline of nursing has been influenced extensively by both Western and Eastern/Asian philosophies. What remains unknown or, perhaps, poorly articulated is the potential influence of African philosophy on the onto‐epistemology of nursing. As a starting point, this article sought to examine the core claims of African philosophy and how they may offer new meanings to the metaparadigm domains of interest in the discipline of nursing. At the core of African philosophy is the notion of personhood (which is distinguished from what it means to be a human being), community, solidarity, and relationality. A major claim of African philosophy is the notion that ‘a person is a person through persons’ which may mean that nursing will be relevant from the African philosophical perspective if it is able to attain this. Health and illness from the African philosophical perspective are defined relationally which shifts attention from the biomedical framework to holism and relational care. The sick ‘person’ is also distinguished from the sick ‘human being’ which has the potential of leading to exclusion from the African philosophical viewpoint. Put together, the African philosophical stance potentially extends the meaning of the metaparadigm domains of interest to the discipline of nursing which warrants further exploration.
Fence off Black Swans: The Economics of Insurance for Vaccine Injury*
Authors: Chen Ze , Chen Bingzheng , Mao Yu
Published: December 2023

Being injured during vaccination, although infrequent, can occur, and this necessitates understanding the consequences of vaccine injuries. In this study, we analyse the impact of the risk of vaccine injuries, particularly the economic importance of vaccine injury compensation insurance (VICI) programmes for the injured, which few studies have investigated. Specifically, we examine the role of VICI on individuals' vaccination decisions by integrating an imperfect vaccine into an epidemiological‐economic model in the presence and absence of such an insurance mechanism. Our findings show that the risk of being injured is a non‐negligible risk that lowers individuals' incentives to be vaccinated. The introduction of VICI largely alleviates decision‐makers' concern about vaccine injury. Furthermore, our extended discussion shows the effect of insurance in encouraging vaccination persists under some more sophisticated scenarios.
Novel prediction models for pharyngeal‐airway volume based on the cranial‐base and midsagittal cross‐sectional area of the airway in the pharyngeal region: A cephalometric and magnetic resonance imaging study
Authors: Habumugisha Janvier , Nakamura Masahiro , Kono Kana , Uchida Kenta , Konko Megumi , Izawa Takashi , Kamioka Hiroshi
Published: December 2023

Objective

The objective of the study was to elucidate the association between cranial base (Bjork‐Jarabak analysis), midsagittal cross‐sectional area of the airway in the pharyngeal region (MCSA‐PR) data and pharyngeal‐airway volume (PAV) and develop a model that could help clinicians predict PAV using two‐dimensional (2D) data (Bjork polygon and MCSA‐PR).

Materials and Methods

Pre‐treatment lateral cephalometric radiographs and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans of 82 women were categorized into three anteroposterior skeletal groups based on ANB angle: Class I (n = 29), 1.5° ≤ ANB≤5.1°; Class II (n = 26), ANB >5.1°; Class III (n = 27), ANB <1.5°. The Bjork polygon, MCSA‐PR data from cephalograms and PAV data from MRI scans were examined. Intergroup comparisons were performed using the Kruskal–Wallis test and one‐way analysis of variance (ANOVA), with pairwise comparisons conducted using the Bonferroni‐corrected Mann–Whitney U‐test for the Kruskal–Wallis test and Bonferroni‐corrected multiple comparison test for one‐way ANOVA. Forward multiple linear regression was used to create model equations for predicting PAV.

Results

MCSA‐PR and anterior (N‐S) and posterior (S‐Ar) cranial‐base lengths were positively correlated with the PAV. We developed four models; three operated at the group level, and one encompassed the entire sample. Notably, all models could effectively explain the variance in the PAV data. The model for the Class I group was the strongest (adjusted R2 = 0.77).

Conclusion

Our findings indicate the remarkable potential of the MCSA‐PR, N‐S and Bjork sum angles (BSA) as predictors of the PAV and the relevance of 2D cephalometric and cranial‐base parameters in predicting the three‐dimensional (3D) pharyngeal‐airway size.
Myopia progression patterns among paediatric patients in a clinical setting
Authors: Moore Michael , Lingham Gareth , Flitcroft Daniel I. , Loughman James
Published: December 2023

Purpose

This retrospective analysis of electronic medical record (EMR) data investigated the natural history of myopic progression in children from optometric practices in Ireland.

Methods

The analysis was of myopic patients aged 7–17 with multiple visits and not prescribed myopia control treatment. Sex‐ and age‐specific population centiles for annual myopic progression were derived by fitting a weighted cubic spline to empirical quantiles. These were compared to progression rates derived from control group data obtained from 17 randomised clinical trials (RCTs) for myopia. Linear mixed models (LMMs) were used to allow comparison of myopia progression rates against outputs from a predictive online calculator. Survival analysis was performed to determine the intervals at which a significant level of myopic progression was predicted to occur.

Results

Myopia progression was highest in children aged 7 years (median: −0.67 D/year) and progressively slowed with increasing age (median: −0.18 D/year at age 17). Female sex (p < 0.001), a more myopic SER at baseline (p < 0.001) and younger age (p < 0.001) were all found to be predictive of faster myopic progression. Every RCT exhibited a mean progression higher than the median centile observed in the EMR data, while clinic‐based studies more closely matched the median progression rates. The LMM predicted faster myopia progression for patients with higher baseline myopia levels, in keeping with previous studies, which was in contrast to an online calculator that predicted slower myopia progression for patients with higher baseline myopia. Survival analysis indicated that at a recall period of 12 months, myopia will have progressed in between 10% and 70% of children, depending upon age.

Conclusions

This study produced progression centiles of untreated myopic children, helping to define the natural history of untreated myopia. This will enable clinicians to better predict both refractive outcomes without treatment and monitor treatment efficacy, particularly in the absence of axial length data.
JinJiang ablation catheter is no inferior than Johnson ablation catheter in radiofrequency ablation of paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia
Authors: Li Ying , Xiong Ganwei , Liu Yuan , Huang Xiantao , Liu Yanfeng , Zhou Haiwen , Xu Zhicheng , Tao Yu , Zhang Fanzhi , Lai Hengli , Chen Zhenhuan
Published: December 2023

Background

Paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT) is characterized by episodes of rapid tachycardia with sudden onset and sudden termination. PSVT treatment has evolved considerably over the past 30 years. Currently, radiofrequency catheter ablation is the first‐line treatment.

Hypothesis

We conducted a randomized controlled trial to compare safety and effectiveness of PSVT ablation between the Jinjiang and Johnson (J&J) catheters in 57 patients in our hospital.

Methods and results

Patients were randomly assigned to ablation procedures using either the Jinjiang system or the J&J Carto system. Follow‐up was performed 3 days, 1, and 6 months after the procedure. Success rate, ablation time, frequency of ablation, and rates of complications and recurrence did not significantly differ between the groups. One Jinjiang group patient (3.6%) experienced arrhythmia recurrence during the 6‐month follow‐up.

Conclusions

The Jinjiang catheter for radiofrequency ablation of PSVT is as safe and effective as the J&J catheter.
Effect of serum panel reactive antibodies on allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation in pediatric thalassemia patients: A single‐center experience
Authors: Malbora Baris , Sarbay Hakan , Dogusan Zeynep , Atay Abdullah Avni
Published: December 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to assess the impact of serum panel reactive antibodies (PRA) on the outcomes of allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT) in pediatric thalassemia patients.

Methods

A total of 73 pediatric patients with thalassemia were included in this single‐center study. Pre‐transplant PRA levels were evaluated, and the patients were divided into two groups: PRA‐negative (group 1; n = 44) and PRA‐positive (group 2; n = 29). Patient characteristics, including age, gender, donor type, stem cell source, and HLA compatibility, were analyzed. Transplant outcomes, including engraftment, transfusion requirements, and transplant‐related complications, were compared between the two groups. Further subgroup analysis was performed based on MFI values.

Results

At the time of transplantation, patients in group 1 were younger than those in group 2 (p = .008). The number of fully matched donors within the family (MSD and MFD) was significantly higher in group 1 (p = .049). Additionally, Rh blood group incompatibility was higher in group 2 (p = .03). There was no statistically significant difference in the engraftment days of neutrophils, platelets, and erythrocytes between the two groups. The frequency of poor graft function and graft failure was higher in the group 2, but there was no statistically significant difference. Post‐transplant transfusion requirements for platelets and red blood cells were significantly higher in the group 2 (p < .001). Transplant‐related complications such as VOD, PRES, and aGvHD were more common in the group 2, but no statistical significance was detected.

Conclusions

Serum PRA in pediatric thalassemia patients may impact the outcomes of HSCT. PRA‐positive patients had higher rates of blood product transfusion requirements. Although poor graft function, graft failure, and post‐transplant complications were more common in the group 2, statistical significance was not observed. Identifying patients with high PRA levels can assist in optimizing transplant strategies and post‐transplant care, leading to improved outcomes for the patients.
Pediatric heart transplantation: Looking forward after five decades of learning
Authors: Dipchand Anne I. , Webber Steven A.
Published: December 2023

Heart transplantation has become the standard of care for pediatric patients with end‐stage heart disease throughout the world. Since the first transplant was performed in 1967, the number of transplants has grown dramatically with 13 449 pediatric heart transplants being reported to The International Society of Heart and Lung Transplant (ISHLT) between January 1992 and June 30, 2018. Outcomes have consistently improved over the last few decades, specifically short‐term outcomes. Most recent survival data demonstrate that recipients who survive to 1‐year post‐transplant have excellent long‐term survival with more than 60% of those who were transplanted as infants being alive 25 years later. Nonetheless, the rates of graft loss beyond the first year have remained relatively constant over time; driven primarily by our poor understanding and lack of treatments for chronic allograft vasculopathy (CAV). Acute rejection, CAV, graft failure, and infection continue to be the major causes of death within the first 5 years post‐transplant. In addition, renal dysfunction, malignancy, and the need for re‐transplantation remain as significant issues that require close follow‐up. Looking forward, key challenges include improving donor utilization rates (including donation after cardiac death (DCD) and the use of ex vivo perfusion devices), the development of non‐invasive biomarkers for rejection, efforts to mitigate the long‐term effects of immunosuppression, and prevention of CAV. It is not possible to cover the entire evolution of pediatric heart transplantation over the last five decades, but in this review, we hope to touch on key observations, lessons learned, and practice changes that have advanced the field, as well as glance ahead to the next decade.
Frequency of skin cancer among psoriasis, vitiligo, and mycosis fungoides patients treated with narrowband ultraviolet B phototherapy
Authors: Mimouni Ilit , Shulman Julia , Unes Awni Abu , Pavlovsky Lev , Pavlotsky Felix
Published: December 2023

Background

Narrowband ultraviolet B (NB‐UVB) phototherapy is a popular and relatively contemporary treatment option. However, only a few studies to date have explored the potential risk of skin cancer following NB‐UVB treatment.

Objective

This study aimed to investigate the potential long‐term risk of skin cancer in patients treated with NB‐UVB.

Methods

This cohort study included patients with psoriasis, vitiligo, and mycosis fungoides treated with NB‐UVB at two university hospitals in Israel in 2000–2005. Patients were followed up for skin cancer for at least 10 years. Data were extracted from the hospital and community medical records.

Results

A total of 767 patients were included in this study: 509 with psoriasis, 122 with vitiligo, and 136 with mycosis fungoides. The mean follow‐up duration was 13 years. Among these patients, 4.43% developed skin cancer during the follow‐up (3.93% had psoriasis, 2.46% had vitiligo, and 8.09% had mycosis fungoides). Old age and fair skin type were the only significant independent risk factors for skin cancer. There was no significant difference in the mean number of NB‐UVB treatments among patients who developed skin cancer and those who did not (99.09 vs. 94.79, respectively).

Conclusion

No association was observed between the number of NB‐UVB treatments and carcinogenesis in any study group. Age is a significant risk factor, and older patients treated with NB‐UVB should be followed up carefully.
Socio‐spatial differentiation and residential inequalities in Chinese cities
Authors: Miao Jia
Published: December 2023

China has experienced unprecedented economic development and urbanization in the past four decades, which has reshaped the Chinese city's physical and social landscape. This article reviews research on socio‐spatial differentiation and residential inequalities in urban China. The market transition and institutional changes have led to cities with escalating spatial divisions of socioeconomic groups since the 1990s. The legacy of a planned economy, unique socialist institutions, growing social disparities, migration, and globalization are essential mechanisms leading to the changing socio‐spatial structure of Chinese cities. Divided cities foster social inequalities by unevenly distributing opportunities and resources for education, income, health, and social networks, and, in turn, affect individual well‐being. This review concludes by calling for more theoretical development and comparative research in studies of Chinese residential inequalities and offering some suggestions for the field's future direction.
Convivial and informal encounters with de‐radicalisation
Authors: Atalay Doga Can , Korkut Umut , Fazekas Roland
Published: December 2023

Our piece raises a conceptual issue with regards to how migration and deradicalization literature conform with each other in ways that they depict and deal with the self/other dichotomy. Both also aim at “integrating” the “other” through policy‐oriented formal mechanisms. The deviance from the normal, evinced by the self/other dichotomisation in these literature, presents who is not ‘us’ as the wayward other. In return, the following migration and deradicalization policies both introduce disciplining mechanisms to make societies homogenous and align the “other” with the existing nation‐state structures. Instead, we propose that societies have a non‐binary composition, and they cannot be pushed in becoming homogenous entities. This piece contributes to deradicalization literature by foregrounding the importance of informal engagements rather than policy‐focused formal processes of deradicalization. In conclusion, we show the importance of the ordinary and the convivial activities to achieve inclusion.
Difference in immunosuppressant dose requirement when transitioning to isavuconazole from other azoles in thoracic transplant recipients
Authors: Kozuch Jade M. , Burt Carrie , Afshar Kamyar , Aslam Saima , Yung Gordon , Mariski Mark , Golts Eugene , Feist Ashley
Published: December 2023

The triazole antifungal isavuconazole (ISAVU) is used for prevention and treatment of fungal infections in solid organ transplant (SOT). SOT recipients commonly need to transition from one azole to another due to breakthrough infection, toxicity, or other reasons. The purpose of our study was to evaluate the effect of ISAVU on immunosuppressant concentrations in thoracic transplant recipients when ISAVU was started de novo or transitioned from another azole. We conducted a single‐center retrospective cohort study including 68 patients (51 lung, 14 heart, and 3 heart/lung transplant). Concentration to dosage ratios (C/D) of immunosuppressants were assessed at baseline, day 3, and weekly for 9 weeks. When starting ISAVU de novo, we observed a temporary doubling of tacrolimus exposure. Cyclosporine and sirolimus required dose decreases. Tacrolimus C/D increased by 110% at day 3 in patients started on ISAVU de novo then returned to baseline C/D ± 17% weeks 2‐9 (n = 8). One cyclosporine patient started on ISAVU de novo had variable C/D, and C/D increased by 219% ± 72% in 2 sirolimus patients. When transitioning from other azoles, tacrolimus and cyclosporine required about twice the initial dose. After week 1, tacrolimus C/D decreased by 53% ± 6% in patients transitioned from posaconazole (n = 33), voriconazole (n = 14), or fluconazole (n = 2). Cyclosporine C/D decreased by 45% ± 16% in patients transitioning from other azoles (posaconazole [n = 2], voriconazole [n = 2], fluconazole [n = 1]). Sirolimus C/D decreased by 73% ± 13% in patients transitioned from posaconazole (n = 7). Aside from the initial loading phase, ISAVU had a lesser degree of interaction with immunosuppressants than other azoles in loading phase, ISAVU had a lesser degree of interaction with immunosuppressants than other azoles in adjustments for the 4‐week period after initiating antifungal therapy with ISAVU or switching from another agent.

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Proteome plasticity during Physcomitrium patens spore germination – from the desiccated phase to heterotrophic growth and reconstitution of photoautotrophy
Authors: Hembach Lea , Niemeyer Philipp W. , Schmitt Kerstin , Zegers Jaccoline M. S. , Scholz Patricia , Brandt Dennis , Dabisch Janis J. , Valerius Oliver , Braus Gerhard H. , Schwarzländer Markus , de Vries Jan , Rensing Stefan A. , Ischebeck Till
Published: December 2023

The establishment of moss spores is considered a milestone in plant evolution. They harbor protein networks underpinning desiccation tolerance and accumulation of storage compounds that can be found already in algae and that are also utilized in seeds and pollen. Furthermore, germinating spores must produce proteins that drive the transition through heterotrophic growth to the autotrophic plant. To get insight into the plasticity of this proteome, we investigated it at five timepoints of moss (Physcomitrium patens) spore germination and in protonemata and gametophores. The comparison to previously published Arabidopsis proteome data of seedling establishment showed that not only the proteomes of spores and seeds are functionally related, but also the proteomes of germinating spores and young seedlings. We observed similarities with regard to desiccation tolerance, lipid droplet proteome composition, control of dormancy, and β‐oxidation and the glyoxylate cycle. However, there were also striking differences. For example, spores lacked any obvious storage proteins. Furthermore, we did not detect homologs to the main triacylglycerol lipase in Arabidopsis seeds, SUGAR DEPENDENT1. Instead, we discovered a triacylglycerol lipase of the oil body lipase family and a lipoxygenase as being the overall most abundant proteins in spores. This finding indicates an alternative pathway for triacylglycerol degradation via oxylipin intermediates in the moss. The comparison of spores to Nicotiana tabacum pollen indicated similarities for example in regards to resistance to desiccation and hypoxia, but the overall developmental pattern did not align as in the case of seedling establishment and spore germination.
The Raf‐like MAPKKKs STY8, STY17, and STY46 negatively regulate Botrytis cinerea resistance by limiting MKK7 protein accumulation in Arabidopsis
Authors: Chen Lijuan , Xiao Jiahui , Li You , Song Yuxiao , Liu Jun , Zhou Qi , Sun Ting , Wang Hong‐Bin , Liu Bing
Published: December 2023

Plant diseases, which seriously damage crop production, are in most cases caused by fungal pathogens. In this study, we found that the Raf‐like MAPKKKs STY8 (SERINE/THREONINE/TYROSINE KINASE 8), STY17, and STY46 negatively regulate resistance to the fungal pathogen Botrytis cinerea through jasmonate response in Arabidopsis. Moreover, STY8/STY17/STY46 homologs negatively contribute to chitin signaling. We further identified MKK7 as the MAPKK component interacting with STY8/STY17/STY46 homologs. MKK7 positively contributes to resistance to B. cinerea and chitin signaling. Furthermore, we found that STY8/STY17/STY46 homologs negatively affect the accumulation of MKK7, in accordance with the opposite roles of MKK7 and STY8/STY17/STY46 homologs in defense against B. cinerea. These results provide new insights into the mechanisms precisely regulating plant immunity via Raf‐like MAPKKKs.
Autonomic nervous system dysfunction throughout menopausal transition: A potential mechanism underpinning cardiovascular and cognitive alterations during female ageing
Authors: Schwarz Karla G. , Vicencio Sinay C. , Inestrosa Nibaldo C. , Villaseca Paulina , Del Rio Rodrigo
Published: December 2023

Cardiovascular diseases (CVD) and neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer's disease (AD), are highly prevalent conditions in middle‐aged women that severely impair quality of life. Recent evidence suggests the existence of an intimate cross‐talk between the heart and the brain, resulting from a complex network of neurohumoral circuits. From a pathophysiological perspective, the higher prevalence of AD in women may be explained, at least in part, by sex‐related differences in the incidence/prevalence of CVD. Notably, the autonomic nervous system, the main heart–brain axis physiological orchestrator, has been suggested to play a role in the incidence of adverse cardiovascular events in middle‐aged women because of decreases in oestrogen‐related signalling during transition into menopause. Despite its overt relevance for public health, this hypothesis has not been thoroughly tested. Accordingly, in this review, we aim to provide up to date evidence supporting how changes in circulating oestrogen levels during transition to menopause may trigger autonomic dysfunction, thus promoting cardiovascular and cognitive decline in women. A main focus on the effects of oestrogen‐mediated signalling at CNS structures related to autonomic regulation is provided, particularly on the role of oestrogens in sympathoexcitation. Improving the understanding of the contribution of the autonomic nervous system on the development, maintenance and/or progression of both cardiovascular and cognitive dysfunction during the transition to menopause should help improve the clinical management of elderly women, with the outcome being an improved life quality during the natural ageing process.

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Origin of age softening in the refractory high-entropy alloys
Authors: Liu Junliang , Li Bo-Shiuan , Gardner Hazel , Gong Yilun , Liu Fengxian , He Guanze , Moorehead Michael , Parkin Calvin , Couet Adrien , Wilkinson Angus J. , Armstrong David E. J.
Published: December 2023

Refractory high-entropy alloys (RHEAs) are emerging materials with potential for use under extreme conditions. As a newly developed material system, a comprehensive understanding of their long-term stability under potential service temperatures remains to be established. This study examined a titanium-vanadium-niobium-tantalum alloy, a promising RHEA known for its superior high-temperature strength and room-temperature ductility. Using a combination of advanced analytical microscopies, Calculation of Phase Diagrams (CALPHAD) software, and nanoindentation, we investigated the evolution of its microstructure and mechanical properties upon aging at 700°C. Trace interstitials such as oxygen and nitrogen, initially contributing to solid solution strengthening, promote phase segregation during thermal aging. As a result of the depletion of solute interstitials within the metal matrix, a progressive softening is observed in the alloy as a function of aging time. This study, therefore, underscores the need for a better control of impurities in future development and application of RHEAs.
Tracking DNA-based antigen-specific T cell receptors during progression to type 1 diabetes
Authors: Mitchell Angela M. , Baschal Erin E. , McDaniel Kristen A. , Fleury Theodore , Choi Hyelin , Pyle Laura , Yu Liping , Rewers Marian J. , Nakayama Maki , Michels Aaron W.
Published: December 2023

T cells targeting self-proteins are important mediators in autoimmune diseases. T cells express unique cell-surface receptors (TCRs) that recognize peptides presented by major histocompatibility molecules. TCRs have been identified from blood and pancreatic islets of individuals with type 1 diabetes (T1D). Here, we tracked ~1700 known antigen-specific TCR sequences, islet antigen or viral reactive, in bulk TCRβ sequencing from longitudinal blood DNA samples in at-risk cases who progressed to T1D, age/sex/human leukocyte antigen–matched controls, and a new-onset T1D cohort. Shared and frequent antigen-specific TCRβ sequences were identified in all three cohorts, and viral sequences were present across all ages. Islet sequences had different patterns of accumulation based upon antigen specificity in the at-risk cases. Furthermore, 73 islet-antigen TCRβ sequences were present in higher frequencies and numbers in T1D samples relative to controls. The total number of these disease-associated TCRβ sequences inversely correlated with age at clinical diagnosis, indicating the potential to use disease-relevant TCR sequences as biomarkers in autoimmune disorders.
Structural basis of metallo-β-lactamase resistance to taniborbactam
Authors: Drusin Salvador I. , Le Terrier Christophe , Poirel Laurent , Bonomo Robert A. , Vila Alejandro J. , Moreno Diego M.
Published: December 2023

The design of inhibitors against metallo-β-lactamases (MBLs), the largest family of carbapenemases, has been a strategic goal in designing novel antimicrobial therapies. In this regard, the development of bicyclic boronates, such as taniborbactam (TAN) and xeruborbactam, is a major achievement that may help in overcoming the threat of MBL-producing and carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative pathogens. Of concern, a recent report has shown that New Delhi MBL-9 (NDM-9) escapes the inhibitory action of TAN by a single amino acid substitution with respect to New Delhi MBL-1 (NDM-1), the most widely disseminated MBL. Here, we report a docking and computational analysis that identifies that “escape variants” against TAN can arise by disruption of the electrostatic interaction of negative charges in the active site loops of MBLs with the N-(2-aminoethyl)cyclohexylamine side chain of TAN. These changes result in non-productive binding modes of TAN that preclude reaction with the MBLs, a phenomenon that is not restricted to NDM-9. This analysis demonstrates that single amino acid substitutions in non-essential residues in MBL loops can unexpectedly elicit resistance to TAN.