bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mangrove ecology guiding the use of mangroves as nature‐based solutions
Authors: Lovelock Catherine E. , Bennion Vicki , de Oliveira Mayara , Hagger Valerie , Hill Jack W. , Kwan Valerie , Pearse Alex L. , Rossini Renee A. , Twomey Alice J.
Published: August 2024

Mangroves are implemented as nature‐based solutions (NbS) for coastal protection, climate change mitigation (carbon sequestration) and other services. They play a core role in providing benefits for biodiversity, livelihoods and human well‐being.

Ecological research has informed the use of mangroves as NbS, but failure of NbS projects has often been due to misconceptions about mangrove ecology and the limited use of the wide range of ecological knowledge available.

Enhanced knowledge of the spatial and temporal variation in ecological processes, and differentiation among mangrove tree species and assemblages (including fauna and microbial communities) in the provision of ecosystem functions and services, will support successful use of mangroves as NbS.

Knowledge of mangrove responses to the interacting pressures of climate change and human uses of the coastal zone will support resilient NbS projects.

Synthesis. The success of mangroves as NbS can be improved with increased incorporation of knowledge of the ecology of mangrove plants, animals and microbes and by sharing and co‐producing knowledge within mangrove societies.
Adaptation of multi‐family therapy for children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa in Japan
Authors: Kuge Rie , Kojima Kayoko , Shiraishi Ken , Sasayama Daimei , Honda Hideo , Simic Mima , Baudinet Julian
Published: August 2024

Multi‐family therapy for children and adolescents with anorexia nervosa (MFT‐AN) draws on the same principles as family therapy for AN (FT‐AN), but is delivered in a more intensive format to help families overcome a sense of isolation and stigmatisation and to maximise their own resources. In Japan, the main treatment for AN is inpatient care, and family‐based treatment that is based on the practice at the Maudsley Hospital in the 1980s has started to be introduced at an inpatient level in Japan. MFT‐AN could offer more opportunities to practice managing AN symptoms and reduce the family's anxiety. It may also act as a step‐down intervention during transition from inpatient to outpatient care or a step‐up in intensity if outpatient treatment is stalling. This article reports on MFT‐AN's theoretical underpinnings, the current Japanese eating disorder treatment context, and the way MFT‐AN may be adapted for the unique Japanese socio‐cultural context.
Adoption of herbicide resistance tests in German arable farming: Insights from the theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Michels Marius , Bonke Vanessa , Musshoff Oliver
Published: August 2024

An increasing number of herbicide‐resistant weeds challenge farming systems worldwide. Bans on active ingredients in chemical crop protection, which result in fewer weed control options, emphasise the importance of herbicide resistance management in arable farming. Resistance testing allows farmers to get an objective overview of the prevailing herbicide resistances on their land and to adjust their management strategies accordingly. Nevertheless, no study has examined farmers' adoption of herbicide resistance tests. For this purpose, an online survey with 197 German arable farmers was conducted. The adoption decision was investigated by applying the theory of planned behaviour framework. The results suggest that informing farmers of the economic benefits associated with herbicide resistance tests can facilitate widespread adoption. Furthermore, awareness of the availability of herbicide resistance tests needs to be raised through both advertising and crop consultants. Results from this study are relevant for several interest groups as the usage of herbicide resistance tests can help reduce the emergence of new resistance by optimising herbicide use at the farm level.
Sap Flow Analyzer: A tool to standardize sap flow estimation and scaling to whole‐tree water use using the HFD method
Authors: Wimmler Marie‐Christin , Nadezhdina Nadezhda , Bowen Hannah , Alvarado‐Barrientos Susana , David Teresa , Fontenla‐Razzetto Gabriela , Kniesel Britt , Lange Holger , Link Roman Mathias , Liu Yang , López‐Portillo Jorge , Pinto Clara , Zhao Junbin , Vovides Alejandra G.
Published: August 2024

Sap flow measurements are fundamental to understanding water use in trees and could aid in predicting climate change effects on forest function. Deriving knowledge from such measurements requires empirical calibrations and upscaling methods to translate thermometric recordings to tree water use. Here, we developed a user‐friendly open‐source application, the Sap Flow Analyzer (SFA), which estimates sap flow rates and tree water use from the heat field deformation (HFD) instruments.

The SFA incorporates four key features to ensure maximum accuracy and reproducibility of sap flow estimates: diagnosis diagrams to assess data patterns visually, regression models implemented to increase accuracy when estimating K (the main HFD parameter), three approaches to upscale sap flow rates to whole‐tree water use and visualization of the input parameters' uncertainty. Thirteen participants were given three raw datasets and assigned data processing tasks using the SFA user guide, from estimating sapwood depth to scaling sap flow rates to whole‐tree water use to assess the reproducibility and applicability of the SFA.

Participants' results were reasonably consistent and independent of their background in using the SFA, R, or HFD method. The results showed lower variability for high flow rates (SD: mean 1% vs. 10%). K estimates and sapwood depth differentiation were the primary sources of variability, which in turn was mainly caused by the user's chosen scaling method.

The SFA provides an easy way to visualize and process sap flow and tree water use data from HFD measurements. It is the first free and open software tool for HFD users. The ability to trace analysis steps ensures reproducibility, increasing transparency and consistency in data processing. Developing tools such as the SFA and masked trials are essential for more precise workflows and improved quality and comparability of HFD sap flow datasets.
Evaluation of the i‐gel® Plus supraglottic airway device in elective surgery: a prospective international multicentre study*
Authors: Werner Jakub , Klementova Olga , Bruthans Jan , Macoun Jaromir , Gaszynski Tomasz , Henlin Tomas , Donaldson Will , Lichnovsky Erik , Arava Shiva , Lopez Ana M , Berge Raquel , Michalek Pavel
Published: August 2024

Background

The i‐gel® Plus is a modified version of the i‐gel® supraglottic airway device. It contains a wider drainage port; a longer tip; ramps inside the breathing channel; and an additional port for oxygen delivery. There has been no prospective evaluation of this device in clinical practice.

Methods

This international, multicentre, prospective cohort study aimed to evaluate the performance of the i‐gel Plus in adult patients undergoing elective procedures under general anaesthesia. The primary outcome was overall insertion success rate, defined as the ability to provide effective airway management through the device from insertion until the end of the surgical procedure. Secondary outcomes included device performance and incidence of postoperative adverse events. Data from the first 1000 patients are reported.

Results

In total, 1012 patients were enrolled; 12 forms were excluded from the final analysis due to incomplete data leaving 1000 included patients (545 female). Overall insertion success rate was 98.6%, with a first‐attempt success rate of insertion of 88.2%. A significant difference between females and males was seen for the overall success rate (97.4% vs. 99.6% respectively) but not for first‐attempt successful insertion. Mean (SD) oropharyngeal seal pressure was 32 (7) cmH2O. The only independent factor that increased the risk of first‐attempt failure was low operator experience. Complications included desaturation < 85% in 0.6%; traces of blood on the device in 7.4%; laryngospasm in 0.5%; and gastric contents inside the bowl in 0.2% of patients.

Conclusions

The i‐gel Plus appears to be an effective supraglottic airway device that is associated with a high insertion success rate and a reasonably low incidence of complications.
For special purposes only: Ceramic casting moulds from the late Bronze and Early Iron Age metallurgical workshop in Grzybiany (SW Poland)
Authors: Bartz Wojciech , Nowak Kamil , Stolarczyk Tomasz , Baron Justyna
Published: August 2024

Ceramic moulds are regarded as highly specialised, refractory tools used in metallurgy, yet their production process still needs clarification. Our research aimed to characterise the stages of operational chains applied in mould manufacture. The evidence comes from the Late Bronze and Early Iron Age lake settlement in Grzybiany in SW Poland, dated to 9/8th–5th century bce. The site provided rich data on tin‐bronze metallurgy, chiefly the lost‐wax technique, involving hundreds of broken and complete ceramic moulds. Multifaceted petrographic analyses of the sampled objects demonstrated that they were made from locally accessible raw material and processed entirely differently from other ceramics from the site. The paste was tempered with fine‐grained sand and an exceptional amount of organic material, plastic enough to wrap wax models. This proportion of organic temper did not occur in regular kitchenware of this period. The moulds were fired under well‐controlled conditions and relatively high temperatures (700–950°C). Through this sequence of operations, the Grzybiany community obtained high‐quality products designed specifically for metallurgical purposes.
Risk of behavioural and developmental difficulties in early childhood in the Australian Capital Territory
Authors: O'Brien Kathleen , Agostino Jason , Ciszek Karen , Douglas Kirsty A.
Published: August 2024

Aim

We aimed to estimate the prevalence of risk for developmental and behavioural problems for children in their first year of full‐time primary education in the Australian Capital Territory (ACT).

Methods

We conducted an analysis of the 2014–2017 Kindergarten Health Check (KHC), an annual series of complete enumeration surveys of all children in their first year of full‐time primary education in the ACT. Risk for developmental and behavioural problems was determined using the Parents' Evaluation of Developmental Status (PEDS) questionnaire.

Results

19 414 children (mean age 5.56 years; 51.4% boys; 2.3% Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander; 18.4% quintile of greatest relative disadvantage) who participated in the 2014–2017 KHC were included in the study (87%). More than half of ACT children in their first year of primary education had low/no developmental risk identified through the PEDS questionnaire, with 1 in 10 at high risk.

Conclusions

Those more likely to have a high risk PEDS score were boys, those from the areas experiencing relative disadvantage, and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander children. While we can identify children at risk through screening, the greater challenge remains to identify and address the underlying causes of healthy inequalities, even within highly socioeconomically advantaged communities.
The development of prosocial risk‐taking behavior: Mechanisms and opportunities
Authors: Armstrong‐Carter Emma , Telzer Eva H.
Published: August 2024

Many young people are inclined toward risk taking and also toward helping other people. Prosocial risk taking is a term that can describe different ways that youth provide significant instrumental and emotional support to family members, friends, and strangers, even when it involves a personal risk. In this article, we review research about different types of prosocial risk taking and highlight examples, emphasizing a developmental perspective by examining change across childhood, adolescence, and young adulthood. Research to date suggests that young people are more likely to engage in prosocial risk taking when they are more tolerant of uncertainty, have greater sensation‐seeking, perspective‐taking, and empathy, and when they are motivated by reputational concerns. Individual differences in prosocial risk‐taking behavior depend on youth's access to opportunities to explore, practice, and experience positive social feedback. Providing opportunities for youth to direct their risk‐taking tendencies toward prosocial outlets may help minimize risks to their psychosocial health and promote individual and community well‐being.
Anisometropia and its correction in children in northwest China: A study based on autorefraction data
Authors: Yao Qian , Wei Junhan , Ye Lu , Duan Xianyi , Ren Meixia , Min Jie , Cheng Pei , Zhang Guoyun
Published: August 2024

Background

To investigate the prevalence and correction of anisometropia among primary school children in northwestern China.

Methods

A cross‐sectional school‐based study was conducted in Shaanxi Province. Visual acuity (VA) and autorefraction without cycloplegia were assessed in all participants, and some received axial length (AL) measurements. Anisometropia was categorised based on spherical equivalent (SE), cylindrical (CYL), and AL. The prevalence of anisometropia and refractive correction across different ages and sexes, and correlations between ocular parameters, were analysed.

Results

The study included 29 153 children aged 6–12 (mean age 9.52 ± 1.73 years) for VA and autorefraction measurements, and 1176 children for AL measurements. The prevalence of myopia (SE ≤ −0.50 D), hyperopia (SE ≥ +0.50 D), and anisometropia (interocular SE difference ≥1.00 D) was 65.26%, 15.09%, and 16.50%, respectively. Anisometropia severity, based on SE (χ2 = 443.758, p < 0.001), CYL (χ2 = 41.669, p < 0.001), and AL (χ2 = 95.505, p < 0.001), increased with age, with no significant differences between sexes. Interocular SE difference correlated with interocular spherical power (r = 0.806, p < 0.001), CYL (r = 0.21, p < 0.001), and AL (r = 0.365, p < 0.001). Additionally, interocular CYL difference was positively correlated with interocular AL difference (r = 0.16, p < 0.001). Despite the high prevalence of anisometropia, less than 30% of affected children received refractive correction.

Conclusions

Anisometropia of SE, CYL, and AL increased progressively with age. Despite the elevated prevalence of anisometropia, the utilisation of refractive correction remained strikingly low.
The mGluR5‐mediated Arc activation protects against experimental traumatic brain injury in rats
Authors: Chen Tao , Li Yun‐Fei , Ren Xu , Wang Yu‐Hai
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is a complex pathophysiological process, and increasing attention has been paid to the important role of post‐synaptic density (PSD) proteins, such as glutamate receptors. Our previous study showed that a PSD protein Arc/Arg3.1 (Arc) regulates endoplasmic reticulum (ER) stress and neuronal necroptosis in traumatic injury in vitro.

Aim

In this study, we investigated the expression, regulation and biological function of Arc in both in vivo and in vitro experimental TBI models.

Results

Traumatic neuronal injury (TNI) induced a temporal upregulation of Arc in cortical neurons, while TBI resulted in sustained increase in Arc expression up to 24 h in rats. The increased expression of Arc was mediated by the activity of metabotropic glutamate receptor 5 (mGluR5), but not dependent on the intracellular calcium (Ca2+) release. By using inhibitors and antagonists, we found that TNI regulates Arc expression via Gq protein and protein turnover. In addition, overexpression of Arc protects against TBI‐induced neuronal injury and motor dysfunction both in vivo and in vitro, whereas the long‐term cognitive function was not altered. To determine the role of Arc in mGluR5‐induced protection, lentivirus‐mediated short hairpin RNA (shRNA) transfection was performed to knockdown Arc expression. The mGluR5 agonist (RS)‐2‐chloro‐5‐hydroxyphenylglycine (CHPG)‐induced protection against TBI was partially prevented by Arc knockdown. Furthermore, the CHPG‐induced attenuation of Ca2+ influx after TNI was dependent on Arc activation and followed regulation of AMPAR subunits. The results of Co‐IP and Ca2+ imaging showed that the Arc‐Homer1 interaction contributes to the CHPG‐induced regulation of intracellular Ca2+ release.

Conclusion

In summary, the present data indicate that the mGluR5‐mediated Arc activation is a protective mechanism that attenuates neurotoxicity following TBI through the regulation of intracellular Ca2+ hemostasis. The AMPAR‐associated Ca2+ influx and ER Ca2+ release induced by Homer1‐IP3R pathway might be involved in this protection.
Gender‐Related Aspects of Laryngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Tsur Nir , Zloczower Elchanan , Tunik Michal , Amir Ido , Yosefof Eyal , Havakuk Hagit Shoffel , Hamzany Yaniv , Kurman Noga
Published: August 2024

Objectives

Laryngeal squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is a predominantly male illness. Although the rate of female patients increased, a knowledge gap exists in the medical literature regarding gender‐based differences.

Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Setting

Adult patients treated for laryngeal SCC in a tertiary medical centre between 2006 and 2020. Data were collected on demographics, clinical presentation, treatment modalities, disease recurrence and survival status.

Participants

Two hundred ninety‐one patients with laryngeal SCC, 50 (17.2%) females and 241 (82.8%) males.

Main Outcome Measures

Disease‐specific survival (DSS), overall survival (OS) and disease‐free survival (DFS), as well as differences in disease characteristics and treatment modalities.

Results

Tumour subsites differed significantly between females and males (36% vs. 19.5% supraglottic, 62% vs. 80.5% glottic and 2% vs. 0% subglottic, respectively; p = 0.006). Females were diagnosed at younger ages (61.7 ± 10.58 vs. 65.87 ± 11.11 years, p = 0.016) and advanced‐stage disease (58% vs. 39.4%, p = 0.018). Females were treated with combined modalities at higher rates (36% vs. 54.8% for single modality, p = 0.031). DSS rates did not differ between genders (log‐rank p = 0.12). Despite being diagnosed at more advanced disease stages, females demonstrated prolonged median OS compared to males (130.17 vs. 106.17 months, log‐rank p = 0.017). No significant differences in DFS were observed (log‐rank p = 0.32). In a multivariate Cox proportional hazards model, male gender remained an independent negative OS predictor (HR = 2.08; CI, 1.10–3.96; p = 0.025), along with increasing age (HR = 1.06; CI, 1.04–1.09; p < 0.001) and advanced disease stage (HR = 1.7; CI, 1.08–2.67; p = 0.023).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest the importance of considering gender‐specific factors in the management of laryngeal SCC.
Is centralization for rectal cancer surgery necessary?
Authors: Choi Joseph Do Woong , Shepherd Talia , Cao Amy , El‐Khoury Toufic , Pathma‐Nathan Nimalan , Toh James Wei Tatt
Published: August 2024

Rectal cancer surgery is complex and more technically challenging than colonic surgery. Over the last 30 years internationally, there has been a growing impetus for centralizing care to improve outcomes for rectal cancer. Centralizing care may potentially reduce variations of care, increase standardization and compliance with clinical practice guidelines. However, there are barriers to implementation at a professional, political, governance and resource allocation level. Centralization may increase inequalities to accessing healthcare, particularly impacting socioeconomically disadvantaged and rural populations with difficulties to commuting longer distances to “centres of excellence”. Furthermore, it is unclear if centralization actually improves outcomes. Recent studies demonstrate that individual surgeon volume rather than hospital volume may be more important in achieving optimal outcomes. In this review, we examine the literature to assess the value of centralization for rectal cancer surgery.
Assessing the risk of climate maladaptation for Canadian polar bears
Authors: Rivkin L. Ruth , Richardson Evan S. , Miller Joshua M. , Atwood Todd C. , Baryluk Steven , Born Erik W. , Davis Corey , Dyck Markus , de Greef Evelien , Laidre Kristin L. , Lunn Nicholas J. , McCarthy Sara , Obbard Martyn E. , Owen Megan A. , Pilfold Nicholas W. , Roberto‐Charron Amelie , Wiig Øystein , Wilder Aryn P. , Garroway Colin J.
Published: August 2024

The Arctic is warming four times faster than the rest of the world, threatening the persistence of many Arctic species. It is uncertain if Arctic wildlife will have sufficient time to adapt to such rapidly warming environments. We used genetic forecasting to measure the risk of maladaptation to warming temperatures and sea ice loss in polar bears (Ursus maritimus) sampled across the Canadian Arctic. We found evidence for local adaptation to sea ice conditions and temperature. Forecasting of genome‐environment mismatches for predicted climate scenarios suggested that polar bears in the Canadian high Arctic had the greatest risk of becoming maladapted to climate warming. While Canadian high Arctic bears may be the most likely to become maladapted, all polar bears face potentially negative outcomes to climate change. Given the importance of the sea ice habitat to polar bears, we expect that maladaptation to future warming is already widespread across Canada.
Outcomes of surgical resection and vagus nerve stimulation in patients with medically refractory epilepsy and glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 antibody positivity
Authors: Zhao‐Fleming Hannah H. , Guo Yong , Britton Jeffrey W. , Dubey Divyanshu , Smith Kelsey M.
Published: August 2024

Epilepsy associated with high‐titer glutamic acid decarboxylase 65 (GAD65) IgG is often refractory to immunotherapies and antiseizure medication. This study sought to determine the efficacy of vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) and surgical resection in patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy associated with GAD65‐IgG. We retrospectively identified 15 patients with drug‐resistant epilepsy and high serum GAD65 antibody titers (>20 nmol·L−1) who underwent VNS implantation (n = 6), surgical resection (n = 7), or both (n = 2). A responder to VNS was defined as someone with a ≥50% reduction in seizure frequency, and a favorable surgical outcome was defined as Engel I–II. Of the eight patients who underwent VNS implantation, three (37.5%) were initially responders, but this was not sustained in two. Of the nine patients who underwent surgical resection, three (33.3%) had a favorable outcome; however, only one patient was seizure‐free at last follow‐up. Pathology was available in six patients, and only one had evidence of inflammation; this patient had seizure onset 1 year prior to surgery. Favorable seizure outcome correlated with older age at time of resective surgery, with a trend favoring later age of seizure onset. Taken together, surgical resection and VNS implantation may have limited efficacy in this patient population but can be considered in carefully selected cases.
Assessing the effectiveness and feasibility of the Experienced Carers Helping Others program in relatives of adolescents with eating disorders using an online application format with individual sessions
Authors: Ruiz Álvaro , Quiles Yolanda , León‐Zarceño Eva , Quiles Maria José , Roncero María , Sanmartin Ricardo
Published: August 2024

Eating disorders (ED) usually involve hospital admission and a high relapse rate, with the return home being a critical moment for patients and their families. After their return home, they often have trouble incorporating the guidelines they have learned into their daily context. ECHOMANTRA intervention program aims to facilitate this transition by offering psychological strategies that involve both patients and their families and carers. Specifically, the ECHO program is aimed at the relatives of these patients. The present study aimed to analyze the efficacy of adding the ECHO program to the usual treatment (TAU) of relatives through a novel format based on individual intervention and with an online format and to examine the acceptability and feasibility of this new format. The study design was multi‐center, randomized, controlled, with a longitudinal design and comparing two parallel groups. A total of 108 family members participated. Results indicated that relatives from both groups, TAU and ECHO + TAU, showed improvements in expressed emotion, accommodation, impact of the ED, emotional well‐being, and caregiver skills. However, effect sizes in the ECHO + TAU group were slightly larger than the TAU group. In addition, the changes were greater in depression and caregiver skills when the ECHO component was added. Most caregivers (81.48%) completed the ECHO and indicated a high level of satisfaction with the program. These results suggest the efficacy and the feasibility of adding the ECHO intervention program to the usual treatment in an individual online format.
Nemo‐like kinase blocks myeloid differentiation by targeting tumor suppressor C/EBPα in AML
Authors: Singh Anil Kumar , Thacker Gatha , Upadhyay Vishal , Mishra Mukul , Sharma Akshay , Sethi Arppita , Chowdhury Sangita , Siddiqui Shumaila , Verma Shailendra Prasad , Pandey Amita , Bhatt Madan L. B. , Trivedi Arun Kumar
Published: August 2024

CCAAT/enhancer‐binding protein α (C/EBPα), a key myeloid transcription factor, drives myeloid differentiation from blast cells by regulating the expression of granulocyte colony stimulating factor receptor and C/EBPε as required for promoting granulocyte differentiation. Here, we show that serine/threonine‐protein kinase NLK, also known as Nemo‐like kinase, physically associates with C/EBPα and phosphorylates it at multiple sites, including Ser21, Thr226, Thr230 and S234, leading to its ubiquitin‐mediated degradation. Individual phospho‐point mutants of C/EBPα could be phosphorylated by NLK, but a mutant with all phosphorylatable residues replaced by alanine resisted phosphorylation and degradation by NLK, as did the single point mutants. Furthermore, although ectopic expression of NLK enhanced phosphorylation of C/EBPα levels, it markedly inhibited total C/EBPα protein levels. Conversely, NLK depletion inhibited endogenous C/EBPα phosphorylation but enhanced its total protein levels in several acute myeloid leukemia (AML) cell lines and in peripheral blood mononuclear cells isolated from number of AML patient samples. Importantly, NLK depletion in peripheral blood mononuclear cells from primary AML patients not only restored C/EBPα protein levels, but also induced myeloid differentiation, suggesting that NLK could be therapeutically targeted to restore C/EBPα to resolve differentiation arrest in AML.
Validating respiratory sarcopenia diagnostic criteria by mortality based on a position paper by four professional organizations: Insights from the Otassha study
Authors: Kera Takeshi , Kawai Hisashi , Ejiri Manami , Imamura Keigo , Hirano Hirohiko , Fujiwara Yoshinori , Ihara Kazushige , Obuchi Shuichi
Published: August 2024

Aim

The Japanese Society for Respiratory Care and Rehabilitation, Japanese Association on Sarcopenia and Frailty, Japanese Society of Respiratory Physical Therapy, and Japanese Association of Rehabilitation Nutrition proposed the definition and diagnosis of respiratory sarcopenia using low respiratory muscle strength and appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM; ASM/height2) instead of respiratory muscle mass; however, these parameters have not been validated. This study aimed to confirm the validity of the respiratory sarcopenia definition proposed by these four professional organizations.

Methods

Participants of our cohort study in 2015 of 468 community‐dwelling older people who were evaluated for sarcopenia and underwent spirometry were included in this analysis. We determined two respiratory sarcopenia models based on low skeletal muscle mass and respiratory muscle strength. Low skeletal muscle mass was defined by low ASM/height2, and low respiratory muscle strength was defined by peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) or percentage of predicted PEFR (%PEFR). Survival status was assessed 5 years after baseline assessment (in 2020). To evaluate the validity of the cut‐off values for PEFR and %PEFR, we determined different respiratory sarcopenia models by sequentially varying the cut‐off values for each parameter, including ASM/height2, from high to low. We subsequently calculated the hazard ratio (HR) for mortality for each respiratory sarcopenia model using the Cox proportional hazards model. Additionally, we plotted the HR for each combination of cut‐off values for ASM/height2 and PEFR or %PEFR on a three‐dimensional chart to observe the relationship between the different cut‐off values and HR.

Results

A total of 31 people died during the 5‐year observation period. With ASM/height2 cut‐off values of approximately 7.0 kg/m2 for men and 5.7 kg/m2 for women and %PEFR cut‐off values of 66–75%, respiratory sarcopenia was associated with mortality risk (HR, 2.36–3.27, point estimation range).

Conclusions

The definition of respiratory sarcopenia by the four professional organizations is related to future health outcomes, and this definition is valid. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2024; 24: 948–953.
Centralized prostatectomy with intraoperative NeuroSAFE margin assessment improves surgical margin control
Authors: Kroon Lisa J , Remmers Sebastiaan , Busstra Martijn B , Gan Melanie , Klaver Sjoerd , Rietbergen John B W , van der Slot Margaretha A , Hollemans Eva , Kweldam Charlotte F , Bangma Chris H , Roobol Monique J , van Leenders Geert J L H
Published: August 2024

Aims

To investigate the surgical margin status in patients with prostate cancer who underwent robot‐assisted radical prostatectomy (RARP) with intraoperative neurovascular structure‐adjacent frozen‐section analysis (NeuroSAFE) and evaluate differences compared to patients who underwent radical prostatectomy without NeuroSAFE.

Patients and Methods

Between September 2018 and January 2021, 962 patients underwent centralized RARP with NeuroSAFE. A secondary resection was performed in case of a positive surgical margin (PSM) on intraoperative frozen section (IFS) analysis to convert a PSM into a negative surgical margin (NSM). A retrospective cohort consisted of 835 patients who had undergone radical prostatectomy in a tertiary centre without NeuroSAFE between January 2000 and December 2017. We performed multivariable logistic regression to evaluate differences in risk of PSM between cohorts after controlling for clinicopathological variables.

Results

Patients operated with NeuroSAFE in the centralized clinic had 29% PSM at a definitive pathological RP examination. The median cumulative length of definitive PSM was 1.1 mm (interquartile range: 0.4–3.8). Among 275 men with PSM, 136 (49%) had a cumulative length ≤1 mm and 198 (72%) ≤3 mm. After controlling for PSA, Grade group, cribriform pattern, pT‐stage, and pN‐stage, patients treated in the centralized clinic with NeuroSAFE had significantly lower odds on PSM (odds ratio [OR]: 0.70, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.56–0.88; P = 0.002), PSM length >1 mm (OR: 0.14, 95% CI: 0.09–0.22; P < 0.001), and >3 mm (OR: 0.21, 95% CI: 0.14–0.30; P < 0.001).

Conclusion

This study provides a detailed overview of surgical margin status in a centralized RP NeuroSAFE cohort. Centralization with NeuroSAFE was associated with lower PSM rates and significantly shorter PSM cumulative lengths, indicating improved control of surgical margin status.
Exploring ethyl pyruvate as an antifungal and antibacterial agent for food preservation: an in vitro and in silico study
Authors: Erarslan Azime , Yuka Selcen Ari
Published: August 2024

Food pathogens are one of the microbiological problems that have negative effects on both economic and human health by causing spoilage and decay of important foods such as fruits and vegetables. The adverse effects of chemical residues left by synthetic biocides on human health and the development of resistance mechanisms in microorganisms have directed research towards bio‐fungicide. This study aimed to develop an effective bio‐fungicide using varying concentrations of ethyl pyruvate (1–18 μL disc−1). Additionally, the interaction of EP with several proteins in pathogenic bacteria and fungi was investigated through in silico molecular docking. According to the obtained results, an increase in EP concentration resulted in larger inhibition zone diameters. In this context, at an EP concentration of 18 μL disc−1, the inhibition zones formed against E. coli, S. aureus, L. monocytogenes and S. typhimurium bacteria were measured as 27.50 ± 0.50 mm, 31.00 ± 1.00 mm, 30.00 ± 1.00 mm and 32.66 ± 1.15 mm, respectively. EP at a concentration of 9 μL disc−1 showed a fungicidal effect against B. cinerea and P. expansum and a fungistatic effect against C. gloeosporioides. As a result of in silico tests, the molecular binding energies of EP with E. coli dihydrofolate reductase, S. aureus DNA Gyrase B and B. cinerea 14 alpha‐demethylase were determined to be −4.62, −4.26 and −3.95 kcal mol−1, respectively. Our results holistically revealed that EP has great potential for use in food preservation due to its antifungal and antibacterial properties.
Occurrence, dietary sources, quantification and bioactivities of natural antioxidant ergothioneine – A longavity vitamin?
Authors: Wijesekara Tharuka , Xu Baojun
Published: August 2024

This review addresses the knowledge gap surrounding ergothioneine which is a naturally occurring antioxidant, by examining both its beneficial properties and the challenges associated with its study. Ergothioneine, often termed a ‘longevity vitamin’, is present in various foods such as mushrooms, grains and certain animal tissues and is synthesised by specific microorganisms. Despite its recognised potential in promoting healthier and extended lifespans, the mechanisms and full spectrum of its effects remain inadequately understood. This article provides a balanced overview of ergothioneine, covering its prevalence, methods for quantification and a wide range of bioactivities, while its antioxidant capabilities, including the neutralisation of free radicals and reactive oxygen species, highlight its promise for enhancing cellular health and preventing age‐related diseases. In addition to that, this review also discusses the limitations and gaps in current research. Notably, ergothioneine's bioaccumulation in tissues vulnerable to oxidative stress suggests its significant role in longevity. Preliminary studies suggest benefits such as reduced inflammation, protection of mitochondrial function and support for brain health, yet comprehensive studies are required to fully understand its mechanisms. This review aims to present an unbiased and thorough understanding of ergothioneine, emphasising the need for further research to unlock its full potential in human health and ageing.
Optimising corn (Zea mays) cob powder as an effective sorbent for diverse gel matrices: exploring particle size and powder concentration effects
Authors: Wang Haoxin , Wang Peng , Kasapis Stefan , Truong Tuyen
Published: August 2024

This study aims to valorise a plant waste, corn cobs (Zea mays) enriched with fibres (cellulose of 19.09–19.18% and hemicellulose of 34.04–60.13%), to create gel‐like sorbents. Corn cobs (CB) were dried, grounded and sieved to obtain 500, 250 and 125 μm powder size fractions. Various CB powder concentrations (10–40% w/w) were mixed with distilled water and rice bran oil for 2 min at ambient temperature to form hydrogel‐like and oleogel‐like sorbents, respectively. Visual appearance indicated that selected gels formed by 250 and 125 μm CB powders were self‐sustained right after mixing, while the largest particles (500 μm) could not fabricate gels at the CB concentrations studied. FTIR results suggested that the gelation process was primarily attributed to physical absorption rather than chemical binding. Comprehensive analyses of microstructure, physicochemical properties and rheological behaviour indicated that gelation was due to fibre–fibre interaction (125 μm) and oil/water–fibre interaction (250 μm). An increase in CB powder concentration enhanced the microstructural density and hardness of gels. Thus, 250 μm particles and higher absorbent concentrations resulted in brittle sorbents characterised by high hardness but low cohesiveness. The 250 μm particles also exhibit a superior antioxidant profile and lower oil/water loss than the 125 μm CB particles due to effective intra‐particle trapping mechanisms.
Virtual care for paediatric asthma: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Gümüş Merve , Yardimci Figen , Duman Şenol Handan , Demir Esen
Published: August 2024

Aims

This work aims to investigate whether virtual care can improve clinical outcomes for children with asthma, similar to face‐to‐face specialty care.

Design

The study used a randomized controlled trial design, with participants allocated to either a virtual care group (n = 47) or a control group (n = 50) using simple randomization.

Methods

The study was conducted from March to August 2021, and a sample of 97 children with asthma was recruited. Children in the virtual care group received online training in four modules within the first month and support through virtual meetings and phone or video calls, while the control group received standard care. The primary outcome of the study was the Asthma Control Test and Child Asthma Control Test.

Results

The virtual care group had significantly better outcomes than the control group in terms of C‐ACT scores for children aged 7–11 years, fewer days under 80% of the optimum level of peak expiratory flow, lower peak expiratory flow variability, fewer rescue medication uses, and more symptom‐free days. The virtual care group also had a lower number of unscheduled hospital visits and a greater improvement in quality of life compared with the control group.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated that virtual care can improve disease management and quality of life for children with asthma.
Special education teachers' involvement and perceived barriers to delivering oral health education for students with disabilities—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Asiri Faris Yahya I. , Tennant Marc , Kruger Estie
Published: August 2024

Background

Dental caries is prevalent among children, including those with disabilities. Although the World Health Organization recommends school‐based oral health promotion (OHP) programmes involving teachers, limited research has explored teachers' roles and perspectives.

Aim

To assess special education teachers' involvement and difficulties regarding oral health education (OHE), attitudes towards OHP and barriers to oral healthcare access for students with disabilities (SWDs).

Design

This descriptive cross‐sectional study, conducted in Al‐Ahsa, Saudi Arabia, involved 264 special education teachers using a validated, self‐administered questionnaire, and descriptive and analytical statistics were used for data analysis.

Results

Only 39% of teachers incorporated OHE into their teaching, and just 20.8% received training for OHE delivery. Teachers showed strong support for integrating OHE into the curriculum (84.1%) and a no‐sugar policy (78%). There was, however, less support for school‐based toothbrushing (39%). OHE barriers included insufficient resources (56.1%), limited knowledge (29.2%) and misconceptions about primary teeth removal (47.4%). The three most common barriers to oral healthcare access were extended waiting lists (75.0%), long waiting times (73.1%) and fear of dental equipment (67.4%).

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for collaboration between healthcare professionals, educators and parents to enhance OHE and reinforce OHP for SWDs within special education and beyond.
Exploring the accuracy of tooth loss prediction between a clinical periodontal prognostic system and a machine learning prognostic model
Authors: Santamaria Pasquale , Troiano Giuseppe , Serroni Matteo , Araùjo Tiago G. , Ravidà Andrea , Nibali Luigi
Published: August 2024

Aim

The aim of this analysis was to compare a clinical periodontal prognostic system and a developed and externally validated artificial intelligence (AI)‐based model for the prediction of tooth loss in periodontitis patients under supportive periodontal care (SPC) for 10 years.

Materials and Methods

Clinical and radiographic parameters were analysed to assign tooth prognosis with a tooth prognostic system (TPS) by two calibrated examiners from different clinical centres (London and Pittsburgh). The prediction model was developed on the London dataset. A logistic regression model (LR) and a neural network model (NN) were developed to analyse the data. These models were externally validated on the Pittsburgh dataset. The primary outcome was 10‐year tooth loss in teeth assigned with ‘unfavourable’ prognosis.

Results

A total of 1626 teeth in 69 patients were included in the London cohort (development cohort), while 2792 teeth in 116 patients were included in the Pittsburgh cohort (external validated dataset). While the TPS in the validation cohort exhibited high specificity (99.96%), moderate positive predictive value (PPV = 50.0%) and very low sensitivity (0.85%), the AI‐based model showed moderate specificity (NN = 52.26%, LR = 67.59%), high sensitivity (NN = 98.29%, LR = 91.45%), and high PPV (NN = 89.1%, LR = 88.6%).

Conclusions

AI‐based models showed comparable results with the clinical prediction model, with a better performance in specific prognostic risk categories, confirming AI prediction model as a promising tool for the prediction of tooth loss.
End‐of‐life care for the devout Jewish patient
Authors: Eitingon Jennifer , Doberman Danielle , Berger Zackary , Tapper Corey Xavier
Published: August 2024

Rationale

The Joint Commission emphasizes the importance of cultural competence and effective communication in quality medical care, particularly during end‐of‐life (EOL), when decisions are influenced by diverse cultural and religious backgrounds. For Orthodox Jewish patients, the philosophical framework used for EOL decision‐making may conflict with that used in traditional Western medical ethics. In this paper, we explore the complexities of EOL decision‐making for devout Jewish patients and highlight how approaches may differ from a Western ethical framework.

Aims and Objectives

This paper aims to familiarize clinicians with EOL preferences of Orthodox Jewish patients, organized into an ethical framework called ‘casuistic deontology’. Leading with an open‐minded approach emphasizing cultural humility, we explore ways in which integrating this perspective can allow for culturally appropriate and compassionate EOL care.

Method

Using a case study methodology, we focus on a 79‐year‐old Orthodox Jewish male hospitalized with severe injuries. The patient's medical course is analyzed, highlighting how the decisions made by his family in consultation with their Rabbi may differ from the decisions made with a philosophy of a Western ethical framework.

Results and Conclusion

This case illustrates the ethical tensions that may arise when Western medical practices intersect with Orthodox Jewish beliefs, particularly regarding brain death, resuscitation, and artificial nutrition. We underscore the need for cultural sensitivity when approaching EOL decision‐making, allowing for compassionate and comprehensive care that respects religious perspectives. This paper helps provide a structure for clinicians to navigate the complex EOL care needs for the devout Jewish patient in a manner consistent with their cultural and religious identity.
Do traders overweight experience from first movers?
Authors: Boyd Naomi , Li Shenru
Published: August 2024

We examine empirically how trading by peers on a new platform influences others' adoption decisions. We model the adoption process and find the relation to be U‐shaped, with first movers greatly discouraging their peers from adoption and late movers slightly discouraging or encouraging their peers. Further analysis shows that the U‐shape is explained by social transmission bias rather than profitability.
Engaging in literature review, synthesis, and meta‐analysis: A few considerations for family scholars
Authors: Jensen Todd M.
Published: August 2024

Given their value, literature reviews and syntheses are featured in numerous family‐centered academic journals, including the flagship journals of the National Council on Family Relations. Although literature reviews and syntheses, including meta‐analyses, have been published in family‐centered academic journals for decades, the application of these methods to topics germane to family science has increased substantially over time. This trend—coupled with a desire to support the conduct of high‐quality literature reviews and syntheses in family science—prompted the development of this article, which aims to provide an efficient, didactic overview of common literature review and synthesis approaches, including meta‐analysis. This article also offers several considerations intended to support family scholars' efforts to develop strong literature reviews, syntheses, and meta‐analyses, particularly ones intended for publication in family‐centered academic journals. The skillful application of these methods will support family scholars' continued efforts to enrich, guide, and advance family science.