bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Efficacy of interventions for cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen's disease): A systematic review and meta‐analysis of proportions
Authors: Petzold Anne , Wessely Anja , Steeb Theresa , Berking Carola , Heppt Markus V.
Published: August 2024

Background

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma in situ (Bowen's disease) is a precancerous condition confined to the epidermis of the skin. Despite the critical need for effective interventions to halt its progression, there remains a notable shortage of comprehensive data comparing the efficacy of various therapeutic approaches.

Objectives

This systematic review and meta‐analysis endeavour to compare the different efficacies of interventions by investigating and synthesizing data from numerous trials.

Methods

A pre‐defined protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42021242224, registration date: 16 April 2021). Systematic searches in Medline, Embase and Central, along with manual trial register searches, identified studies reporting lesion clearance rates (LCR), participant clearance rates (PCR) or recurrence rates (date of last search: 12 June 2024). Quality assessment followed guidelines from the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). After the study arms were categorized into treatment groups and groups of study quality, the proportions were pooled using the generalized linear mixed model (GLMM) as meta‐analytical method.

Results

A comprehensive inclusion of 71 studies facilitated an evaluation of 3783 lesions for LCR, 1225 patients for PCR, 4073 lesions for lesion recurrence rates (LRR) and 740 patients for participant recurrence rates (PRR). Surgery demonstrated the highest LCR and PCR (0.97, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.90–0.99) and the lowest LRR (0.04, 95% CI: 0.02–0.07).

Conclusions

This study provides a thorough overview of reported efficacy outcomes for practice‐relevant interventions for Bowen's disease. Surgery outperformed other treatments for Bowen's disease. For the other intervention groups, it was not possible to show clear differences in effectiveness: LCR, PCR, LRR and PRR showed various treatment rankings, and the comparability was restricted by different numbers of studies between treatment groups and outcome measures, methodical and clinical heterogeneity. Further high‐quality studies are needed to investigate practice‐relevant interventions for Bowen's disease.
Additive inclusion in plastic life cycle assessments part I: Review of mechanical recycling studies
Authors: Logan H. , Astrup T. F. , Damgaard A.
Published: August 2024

As the European Union transitions to the circular use of plastics, robust life cycle assessments are crucial in understanding and preparing for this new economy. Additives are essential to the production of all plastics but were reported as missing from life cycle assessments (LCAs) of plastic materials a decade ago. This study expands upon previous research by investigating if plastic additive impacts are now included in LCAs of recycled plastic materials or if they are still absent. In part I, we conduct a systematic literature review of 93 LCAs on plastics, including mechanical recycling pathways, and distinguish if plastic additive impacts are considered in (i) in‐text discussions and (ii) the life cycle inventories (LCIs) of each study. We then compare the types of additive inclusion within the corpus to ascertain whether author knowledge or data availability dictates additive inclusion in plastic LCAs. We find that data disclosure and detailed discussions of specific additive impacts are missing across the corpus due to poor transparency in LCI disclosure or overly generic disclosures of additives. The lack of detailed and transparent discussions and disclosure indicates that additive impacts are missing from LCAs of recycled plastic materials, leading to incomplete analyses of their impacts. Until addressed, such a gap may lead to inaccurate or incomplete circular plastic material LCAs. In part II, we assess the quality of generic disclosures and explore how database quality and transparency have contributed to additive omissions in LCAs.
Misremembering Solitude: The Role of Personality and Cultural Self‐Concepts in Shaping Discrepancies Between Recalled and Concurrent Affect in Solitude
Authors: Lay Jennifer C. , Ho Yuen Wan , Tse Dwight C. K. , Tse Jimmy T. K. , Jiang Da
Published: August 2024

Background

Affect recall is key to psychological assessment and decision‐making. However, self‐concepts (self‐beliefs) may bias retrospective affect reports such that they deviate from lived experiences. Does this experience‐memory gap apply to solitude experiences? We hypothesized that individuals misremember how they feel overall and when in solitude, in line with self‐concepts of introversion, self‐determined/not‐self‐determined solitude motivations, and independent/interdependent self‐construal. A pilot study comparing retrospective to daily affect reports captured over 2 weeks (N = 104 UK university students) provided preliminary evidence of introversion and not‐self‐determined solitude shaping affect recall.

Methods

In the main pre‐registered study, participants aged 18–49 in the UK (N = 160) and Hong Kong (N = 159) reported their momentary affective states and social situations 5 times per day over 7 days, then recalled how they felt over the week.

Results and Discussion

Individuals higher in self‐determined solitude were more prone to retrospectively overestimate their high‐ and low‐arousal positive affect in solitude and showed less overestimation/more underestimation of negative affect in solitude. Higher not‐self‐determined solitude was associated with overestimating loneliness, and higher interdependent self‐construal with overestimating loneliness and energy levels, in solitude. Comparisons based on residence/ethnicity suggest culture influences solitude‐seeking and affective memory. Implications for well‐being and affect measurement are discussed.
Global drivers influencing vegetation during succession: Factors and implications
Authors: Janečková Petra , Tichý Lubomír , Walker Lawrence R. , Prach Karel
Published: August 2024

Question

Following a significant disturbance, vegetation development may, or may not reach the desired target. Here, we examine which relevant global environmental factors have a substantial impact on the course of spontaneous vegetation succession, and what their relative relevance is in achieving the desired outcome.

Location

Worldwide.

Methods

The outcome of vegetation changes in 528 studies describing spontaneous succession worldwide was classified at a simple, semi‐quantitative scale: fully‐successful, partly‐successful, and unsuccessful, considering 10 different types of disturbances. Latitude, climatic factors (mean annual temperature, annual temperature range, mean annual precipitation, seasonality of precipitation), and biological factors (number of vascular plant species, and number of invasive alien species) were considered as explanatory variables. The ordination method (principal coordinate analysis) was used to visualize relationships among variables and their relationships to succession outcomes. For a detailed insight into the importance of the particular variables, we applied machine learning techniques, specifically one called “conditional random forest”. In addition, the effect of different types of initial disturbance was assessed using Generalized Linear Models.

Results

Globally, disturbance type emerged as the most influential factor in determining succession outcomes. The most successful were results from recovering vegetation after fire, whereas the most unsuccessful were those after volcano eruptions. For climatic factors, the success of succession decreased with a low annual temperature range and high temperature mean. Biological factors such as the number of invasive alien species and species richness had the least but significant influence on the succession success.

Conclusions

The most relevant factor determining the outcome of spontaneous succession was disturbance type, followed by temperature variables. Notably, latitude emerged as a practical proxy for many ecologically relevant factors. Therefore, we conclude that latitude may be a valuable predictor of the success of succession and, consequently, of the success of ecological restoration projects that are based on spontaneous succession.
Characterizing feral swine movement across the contiguous United States using neural networks and genetic data
Authors: Giglio Rachael M. , Bowden Courtney F. , Brook Ryan K. , Piaggio Antoinette J. , Smyser Timothy J.
Published: August 2024

Globalization has led to the frequent movement of species out of their native habitat. Some of these species become highly invasive and capable of profoundly altering invaded ecosystems. Feral swine (Sus scrofa × domesticus) are recognized as being among the most destructive invasive species, with populations established on all continents except Antarctica. Within the United States (US), feral swine are responsible for extensive crop damage, the destruction of native ecosystems, and the spread of disease. Purposeful human‐mediated movement of feral swine has contributed to their rapid range expansion over the past 30 years. Patterns of deliberate introduction of feral swine have not been well described as populations may be established or augmented through small, undocumented releases. By leveraging an extensive genomic database of 18,789 samples genotyped at 35,141 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), we used deep neural networks to identify translocated feral swine across the contiguous US. We classified 20% (3364/16,774) of sampled animals as having been translocated and described general patterns of translocation using measures of centrality in a network analysis. These findings unveil extensive movement of feral swine well beyond their dispersal capabilities, including individuals with predicted origins >1000 km away from their sampling locations. Our study provides insight into the patterns of human‐mediated movement of feral swine across the US and from Canada to the northern areas of the US. Further, our study validates the use of neural networks for studying the spread of invasive species.
From tree to plot: investigating stem CO2 efflux and its drivers along a logging gradient in Sabah, Malaysian Borneo
Authors: Mills Maria B. , Both Sabine , Jotan Palasiah , Huaraca Huasco Walter , Cruz Rudi , Pillco Milenka M. , Burslem David F. R. P. , Maycock Colin , Malhi Yadvinder , Ewers Robert M. , Berrio Juan Carlos , Kaduk Jörg , Page Susan , Robert Rolando , Teh Yit A. , Riutta Terhi
Published: August 2024

Stem respiration constitutes a substantial proportion of autotrophic respiration in forested ecosystems, but its drivers across different spatial scales and land‐use gradients remain poorly understood. This study quantifies and examines the impact of logging disturbance on stem CO2 efflux (EA) in Malaysian Borneo.

EA was quantified at tree‐ and stand‐level in nine 1‐ha plots over a logging gradient from heavily logged to old‐growth using the static chamber method.

Tree‐level results showed higher EA per unit stem area in logged vs old‐growth plots (37.0 ± 1.1 vs 26.92 ± 1.14 g C m−2 month−1). However, at stand‐level, there was no difference in EA between logged and old‐growth plots (6.7 ± 1.1 vs 6.0 ± 0.7 Mg C ha−1 yr−1) due to greater stem surface area in old‐growth plots. Allocation to growth respiration and carbon use efficiency was significantly higher in logged plots. Variation in EA at both tree‐ and stand‐level was driven by tree size, growth and differences in investment strategies between the forest types.

These results reflect different resource allocation strategies and priorities, with a priority for growth in response to increased light availability in logged plots, while old‐growth plots prioritise maintenance and cell structure.
RACK1 links phyB and BES1 to coordinate brassinosteroid‐dependent root meristem development
Authors: Zhu Wei , Fu Yajuan , Zhou Hua , Zhou Yeling , Zhang Dayan , Wang Yuzhu , Su Yujing , Li Zhiyong , Liang Jiansheng
Published: August 2024

Light and brassinosteroids (BR) are indispensable for plant growth and control cell division in the apical meristem. However, how external light signals cooperate with internal brassinosteroids to program root meristem development remains elusive.

We reveal that the photoreceptor phytochrome B (phyB) guides the scaffold protein RACK1 to coordinate BR signaling for maintaining root meristematic activity. phyB and RACK1 promote early root meristem development.

Mechanistically, RACK1 could reinforce the phyB–SPA1 association by interacting with both phyB and SPA1, which indirectly affects COP1‐dependent RACK1 degradation, resulting in the accumulation of RACK1 in roots. Subsequently, RACK1 interacts with BES1 to repress its DNA‐binding activity toward the target gene CYCD3;1, leading to the release of BES1‐mediated inhibition of CYCD3;1 transcription, and hence the promotion of root meristem development.

Our study provides mechanistic insights into the regulation of root meristem development by combination of light and phytohormones signals through the photoreceptors and scaffold proteins.
Glycated hemoglobin, type 2 diabetes, and poor diabetes control are positively associated with impulsivity changes in aged individuals with overweight or obesity and metabolic syndrome
Authors: Gómez‐Martínez Carlos , Babio Nancy , Camacho‐Barcia Lucía , Júlvez Jordi , Nishi Stephanie K. , Vázquez Zenaida , Forcano Laura , Álvarez‐Sala Andrea , Cuenca‐Royo Aida , de la Torre Rafael , Fanlo‐Maresma Marta , Tello Susanna , Corella Dolores , Vásquez Alejandro Arias , Dalsgaard Søren , Franke Barbara , Fernández‐Aranda Fernando , Salas‐Salvadó Jordi
Published: August 2024

Impulsivity has been proposed to have an impact on glycemic dysregulation. However, it remains uncertain whether an unfavorable glycemic status could also contribute to an increase in impulsivity levels. This study aims to analyze associations of baseline and time‐varying glycemic status with 3‐year time‐varying impulsivity in older adults at high risk of cardiovascular disease. A 3‐year prospective cohort design was conducted within the PREDIMED‐Plus‐Cognition substudy. The total population includes 487 participants (mean age = 65.2 years; female = 50.5%) with overweight or obesity and metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance (HOMA‐IR), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), presence of type 2 diabetes mellitus, and type 2 diabetes control were evaluated. Impulsivity was measured using the Impulsive Behavior Scale questionnaire and various cognitive measurements. Impulsivity z‐scores were generated to obtain Global, Trait, and Behavioral Impulsivity domains. Linear mixed models were used to study the longitudinal associations across baseline, 1‐year, and 3‐year follow‐up visits. HOMA‐IR was not significantly related to impulsivity. Participants with higher HbA1c levels, type 2 diabetes, and poor control of diabetes showed positive associations with the Global Impulsivity domain over time, and those with higher HbA1c levels were further related to increases in the Trait and Behavioral Impulsivity domains over the follow‐up visits. These results suggest a potential positive feedback loop between impulsivity and glycemic‐related dysregulation.
Sunscreens prescribed to patients with skin of color and/or with melasma: A survey of 221 dermatologists and dermatology residents in Spain
Authors: Morgado‐Carrasco Daniel , Delgado Jesús , Prudkin‐Silva Ludmila , Santamaria Júlia , Piquero‐Casals Jaime
Published: August 2024

Background

Dark‐skinned individuals (DSI) present high rates of melasma and post‐inflammatory hyperpigmentation. The use of sunscreens with mineral filters is essential for prevention and treatment. Our objective was to determine the preferences of dermatologists and dermatology residents in the prescription of sunscreens for DSI.

Methods

An anonymous survey of attendees at an online photoprotection event held on March 31, 2022, in Spain.

Results

The survey was answered by 66.6% (221/332) of the attendees: 159 dermatologists (71.9%) and 62 dermatology residents (28.1%). Respondents reported recommending the use of sunscreen to a median of 80% of DSI [interquartile range (IQR), 50–90]. Physicians reported prescribing tinted sunscreens to a median percentage of 60% (IQR, 25–90) of DSI with acne; and to a median percentage of 90% (IQR, 58–99) of DSI with melasma. The most prescribed photoprotectors to DSI with melasma were organic broad‐spectrum sunscreens with antioxidants: 102/220 (46.4%) and mineral broad‐spectrum sunscreens (with iron oxides): 45/220 (20.4%). In DSI with melasma or other pigmentary disorders, the most preferred features of sunscreens were as follows: sun protection factor ≥ 30: 217/221 (98.2%), UVA protection: 214/221 (96.8%), color for camouflage: 150/220 (68.2%) and mineral filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide: 151/220 (68.6%) or iron oxides: 131/220 (59.5%).

Limitations

Online survey, potential inclusion bias.

Conclusions

Respondents reported to prescribe sunscreens to the majority of DSI, and tinted sunscreens for the majority of DSI with pigmentary disorders. However, the most frequently recommended sunscreens for DSI were organic broad‐spectrum sunscreens with antioxidants.
University knowledge spillovers and innovation of hidden champions: evidence from Italy
Authors: Schenkenhofer Julian , Block Joern , Vismara Silvio
Published: August 2024

Hidden champions (HCs) are niche market leaders and innovation is key for them to stay competitive and retain market and technology leadership. While prior research has stressed the importance of customers and internal R&D as sources of innovation for HC, we know little about the role of universities in this regard. Using a knowledge spillover lens, we investigate how the regional proximity of HCs to universities influences their innovation output. Drawing on a sample of 124 Italian HCs, we show that HCs located in proximity to universities have higher innovation output as compared to other HCs. The size of the spillover effect depends on university characteristics and thus both on the size and type of the knowledge base. Our study contributes to a better understanding of the innovation process of HCs and how they interact with universities in a regional innovation ecosystem.
Reproductive outcomes in Holstein heifers synchronized with timed‐AI protocols that provide for a lengthened proestrus
Authors: Dirandeh E. , Khaninezhad S. , Ansari‐Pirsaraei Z. , Rezaei Arman , Colazo M. G.
Published: August 2024

This study compared reproductive outcomes among two protocols for synchronization of ovulation that provide for a lengthened proestrus with the conventional oestradiol‐based protocol currently used for timed‐AI (TAI). Holstein heifers (13–15 months) at one location were assigned randomly to one of three TAI protocols. Heifers (n = 150) in the 7‐day oestradiol benzoate (EB) group received a progesterone device (Cue‐Mate) and 2 mg EB on Day 0; 500 μg of cloprostenol (PGF) and Cue‐Mate removal on Day 7; 1 mg of EB on Day 8 and TAI on Day 9 (54 h after Cue‐Mate removal). Heifers (n = 150) in the 5‐day CO‐Synch (CO) group received a Cue‐Mate and 100 μg of gonadotropin‐releasing hormone (GnRH) on Day 2; Cue‐Mate removal and PGF (twice, 12 h apart) on Day 7; and GnRH along with TAI on Day 10 (72 h after Cue‐Mate removal). Heifers (n = 150) in the J‐Synch (JS) group received a Cue‐Mate and 2 mg of EB on Day 1; PGF and Cue‐Mate removal on Day 7; GnRH and TAI on Day 10 (72 h after Cue‐Mate removal). Heifers were inseminated by one technician with frozen–thawed conventional semen from one of four commercially available sires. Plasma progesterone (P4) concentrations (ng/mL) were determined at Cue‐Mate removal and TAI. Ovarian ultrasonography was done in a subset of 217 heifers at the initiation of protocols, at Cue‐Mate removal; TAI; and 7 days after TAI. Approximately, 28 and 50 days after TAI pregnancy status was determined by ultrasonography. Mean (±SEM) plasma P4 concentration at Cue‐Mate removal was greater (p < .01) in CO (6.02 ± 0.2) and JS (6.51 ± 0.2) compared to EB heifers (4.53 ± 0.2). Mean (±SEM) plasma P4 concentration at TAI was lowest in the JS (0.28 ± 0.05), intermediate in CO (0.46 ± 0.02), and greatest in EB heifers (0.66 ± 0.05, p < .01). The diameter of the ovulatory follicle (mean ± SEM) was the smallest in the JS group compared to that in the CO and EB groups (15.8 ± 0.5; 13.9 ± 0.5; and 12.7 ± 0.5 mm for EB, CO and JS, respectively). More (p < .01) heifers in the JS group had their oestrous cycle synchronized (50.0, 78.8 and 82.4% for EB, CO and JS groups), and were pregnant at 28 (40.3, 51.3 and 63.3% for EB, CO and JS groups) and 50 days after TAI (32.6, 46.0 and 60.0% for EB, CO and JS groups). In summary, heifers subjected to the J‐Synch TAI protocol had lower P4 at TAI, and better overall response to hormonal treatments, which resulted in increased P/AI at 28 and 50 days after TAI compared to those heifers subjected to either a 7‐day EB protocol or a 5‐day CO‐synch protocol.
Materialistic happiness is negatively associated with meaning in life: A serial double mediation model
Authors: Lo On‐Ting , Cheung Sing‐Hang , Lai Veronica K. W.
Published: August 2024

Background

Materialism refers to values that equate materialistic possessions with happiness and success. Gathering materialistic possessions is also central to materialists' life. Extant research has widely shown that materialism is detrimental to people's well‐being, but its influences on meaning in life are less clear. In this article, we address two principal research questions within the framework of self‐determination theory: First, we explore the association between varying dimensions of materialism and the perceived meaning in life; second, we investigate the factors that mediate the relationship between materialistic values and meaning in life.

Methods

Two cross‐sectional online survey studies (Study 1: 190 Chinese participants; Study 2: 767 participants [mainly Caucasians] from Prolific) were conducted to test a hypothesized serial double mediation model, in which basic psychological needs satisfaction and subjective well‐being were the two serial factors mediating the materialistic happiness to meaning in life relationship.

Results

Among the three materialism values, only materialistic happiness was negatively associated with meaning in life. Basic psychological needs satisfaction and subjective well‐being serially mediated the relationship. Theoretical and practical implications were discussed.
Killer‐cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor polymorphism is associated with COVID‐19 outcome: Results of a pilot observational study
Authors: Niño‐Ramírez J. E. , Alcoceba M. , Gutiérrez‐Zufiaurre M. N. , Marcos M. , Gil‐Etayo F. J. , Bartol‐Sánchez M. R. , Eiros R. , Chillón M. C. , García‐Álvarez M. , Terradillos‐Sánchez P. , Presa D. , Muñoz J. L. , López‐Bernús A. , López‐Sánchez E. , González‐Calle D. , Sánchez P. L. , Compán‐Fernández O. , González M. , García‐Sanz R. , Boix F.
Published: August 2024

The pathogenesis of COVID‐19 warrants unravelling. Genetic polymorphism analysis may help answer the variability in disease outcome. To determine the role of KIR and HLA polymorphisms in susceptibility, progression, and severity of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, 458 patients and 667 controls enrolled in this retrospective observational study from April to December 2020. Mild/moderate and severe/death study groups were established. HLA‐A, ‐B, ‐C, and KIR genotyping were performed using the Lifecodes® HLA‐SSO and KIR‐SSO kits on the Luminex® 200™ xMAP fluoroanalyser. A probability score using multivariate binary logistic regression analysis was calculated to estimate the likelihood of severe COVID‐19. ROC analysis was used to calculate the best cut‐off point for predicting a worse clinical outcome with high sensitivity and specificity. A p ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant. KIR AA genotype protected positively against severity/death from COVID‐19. Furthermore, KIR3DL1, KIR2DL3 and KIR2DS4 genes protected patients from severe forms of COVID‐19. KIR Bx genotype, as well as KIR2DL2, KIR2DS2, KIR2DS3 and KIR3DS1 were identified as biomarkers of severe COVID‐19. Our logistic regression model, which included clinical and KIR/HLA variables, categorised our cohort of patients as high/low risk for severe COVID‐19 disease with high sensitivity and specificity (Se = 94.29%, 95% CI [80.84–99.30]; Sp = 84.55%, 95% CI [79.26–88.94]; OR = 47.58, 95%CI [11.73–193.12], p < 0.0001). These results illustrate an association between KIR/HLA ligand polymorphism and different COVID‐19 outcomes and remarks the possibility of use them as a surrogate biomarkers to detect severe patients in possible future infectious outbreaks.
Identification of the novel HLA‐DRB3*03:69 allele by next‐generation sequencing
Authors: Molinari Isabella Fantini , de Oliveira Anthony Marçal Leão , Massi Fernanda Pelisson , Hirata Bruna Karina Banin , Visentainer Jeane Eliete Laguila
Published: August 2024

The new HLA‐DRB3*03:69 allele differs from DRB3*03:01:01:03 by change of C → G in exon 3.
Mapping, geography
Authors: Legg Stephen
Published: August 2024

This Themed Intervention consists of short papers written by nine plenary speakers at the 2024 Annual Conference of the Royal Geographical Society with the Institute of British Geographers plus a paper by the Society's Cartographic Collections Manager. In this introduction, I explain why I chose mapping as the conference Chair's theme. I give a sense of how the relationship between geography and mapping has been addressed through previous conference addresses and themes. I then explore three types of cartographic genealogies. The first shows how histories of cartography traditionally took the form of family trees. The second explores disjunctures between previous phases of cartography and brings us to current definitions of mapping. The third genealogy is that of previously subjugated forms of mapping knowledge and practice which are now defining features of the field (critical quantitative; empire, race, and Indigenous; counter‐; representational and more‐than‐representational).
Use of a new aiming compression device and technique for the repair of navicular bone fractures in horses: A cadaveric study
Authors: Pudert Tanja , Fries Giuletta Felicia , Lotz Hannah , Röcken Michael , Cruz Antonio M.
Published: August 2024

Objective

To assess the use of a newly developed aiming compression device (ACD) for screw insertion in non‐fractured navicular bones (NB) in cadavers.

Study design

Cadaveric study.

Sample population

A total of 10 cadaveric front limbs of adult horses.

Methods

Placement of a 3.5 mm cortical screw in non‐fractured NB under radiographic guidance was performed in 10 cadaver limbs in a standing position. An ACD was used to stabilize the NB and to guide the drilling process. Preparation and surgical time as well as the number of radiographic images were noted. A postoperative scoring system was used to assess screw placement by cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) and gross examination by two evaluators.

Results

The total procedure time was 25–62 min (median 33.5). During the procedure, 11–21 radiographs (median 18.5) were taken. The postoperative gross examination revealed an excellent screw placement in nine NB and poor in one. This could not be reliably assessed with post‐procedure CBCT.

Conclusion

The described technique achieves an excellent screw placement in 9/10 bones without disrupting the articular or flexural surface of the NB and with no protrusion of the screw head or tip, in a median procedure time of under 35 min.

Clinical significance

Adequate screw placement is paramount for NB fracture repair. The described approach under radiographic guidance allows adequate screw placement using the ACD to stabilize the NB by lateral to medial compression. This technique facilitates adequate screw placement within the NB without the use of advanced imaging techniques.
Robust Design for Product Adaptation Considering Changes in Configurations and Parameters
Authors: Deabae Reza , Xue Deyi
Published: August 2024

Adaptable products are designed such that their configurations and parameters can be changed easily in the operation stage to satisfy changes in functional requirements. Design of adaptable products can extend lifespans of these products. A new robust adaptable product design method is introduced in this research to identify the optimal design including the product configurations and parameter values considering uncertainties in both product configurations and parameters. In this work, an AND-OR tree is used to model feasible design candidates and their configurations considering product adaptations, where each node represents a partial design solution. Different design candidates are created from the AND-OR tree through tree-based search, and a design candidate is defined by configurations of the original design and the adapted designs. Each configuration is further defined by parameters. A multi-level optimization method is used to obtain the optimal adaptable product design including its configurations and parameter values of these configurations. In this study, uncertainties of configurations are defined by probabilities for production adaptations, while uncertainties of parameters are defined by variations of parameter values. Both evaluation measures and their variations are considered in this robust adaptable product design method. A case study has been implemented to show how the developed method is used for the design of an adaptable mechanical system.
Two new species of Clathrosperchon (Hydrachnidia: Rhynchohydracaridae), and phylogenetic placement of Rhynchohydracaridae
Authors: Ribeiro Dante Batista , Geremias Dos Santos Costa Samuel , Simões de Castro Luiz Alexandre , Rogério Pepato Almir
Published: August 2024

Two new Clathrosperchon (Rhynchohydracaridae: Hydryphantoidea) species were described (Clathrosperchon nunesae sp. nov. and C. bitucai sp. nov.) and tabular and dichotoumous keys to the known Clathrosperchon species based on adults are provided. In addition, the phylogenetic placement of Rhynchohydracaridae was inferred using five molecular markers: COI, 18S, 28S, HSP70 and SRP54, testing previous hypothesis that the family may be more closely related to Neohydrachnidia than Hydryphantoidea due to larval characters. Our results recovered Rhynchohydracaridae nested among Lebertioidea, as sister group to Limnesiidae, and the traditional composition of Hydryphantoidea and Lebertioidea could be rejected based on AU-test. Given the larval characters and the recovered phylogenetic placement of the family, we propose that Rhynchohydracaridae must be included in Neohydrachnidia. This paper represents the first record of Hydrachnidia for the Minas Gerais State, Brazil, and is also the largest dataset of neotropical water mites included in a phylogenetic inference to date.
Barriers and Facilitators for Physical Activity Among Children and Youth With Autism—A Scoping Review
Authors: Okkenhaug Ingrid , Jensen Magnus Rom , Solhaug Solvor
Published: August 2024

Background: The purpose of this scoping review was to systematically synthesize barriers and facilitators for physical activity (PA) among children and youth with autism spectrum disorders (ASD) across the socioecological model. Methods: Five electronic databases were searched in March 2022 for studies examining barriers and facilitators for PA among children and youth with ASD. An updated search was performed in April 2024. The framework synthesis method was utilized, and the socioecological model was the chosen framework. Results: Fifty-four studies published from 2008 to 2024 were included. Among the included studies, 57% included the perspectives of children and youth with ASD alone or together with proxies (eg, parents, teachers, and coaches), while 43% included only the perspectives of proxies. Barriers and facilitators on the intrapersonal and interpersonal levels were most substantial. The analysis led to 2 main categories of barriers and facilitators, those unique to children and youth with ASD, and those similar to what had been identified through research on children and youth, both typically developing and with other disabilities. Conclusions: This comprehensive scoping review shows the complexity of factors contributing to barriers and facilitators for PA among children and youth with ASD, and highlights both the factors unique to this population and more general factors affecting PA participation. The findings from this synthesis might be used to guide the development of inclusive PA in physical education, organized sports, and other community PA arenas.
Aspirational nitrogen interventions accelerate air pollution abatement and ecosystem protection
Authors: Guo Yixin , Zhao Hao , Winiwarter Wilfried , Chang Jinfeng , Wang Xiaolin , Zhou Mi , Havlik Petr , Leclere David , Pan Da , Kanter David , Zhang Lin
Published: August 2024

Although reactive nitrogen (Nr) emissions from food and energy production contribute to multi-dimensional environmental damages, integrated management of Nr is still lacking owing to unclear future mitigation potentials and benefits. Here, we find that by 2050, high-ambition compared to low-ambition N interventions reduce global ammonia and nitrogen oxide emissions by 21 and 22 TgN/a, respectively, equivalent to 40 and 52% of their 2015 levels. This would mitigate population-weighted PM
2.5
by 6 μg/m
3
and avoid premature deaths by 817 k (16%), mitigate ozone by 4 ppbv, avoid premature deaths by 252k (34%) and crop yield losses by 122 million tons (4.3%), and decrease terrestrial ecosystem areas exceeding critical load by 420 Mha (69%). Without nitrogen interventions, most environmental damages examined will deteriorate between 2015 and 2050; Africa and Asia are the most vulnerable but also benefit the most from interventions. Nitrogen interventions support sustainable development goals related to air, health, and ecosystems.
Giant hyperfine interaction between a dark exciton condensate and nuclei
Authors: Jash Amit , Stern Michael , Misra Subhradeep , Umansky Vladimir , Joseph Israel Bar
Published: August 2024

We study the interaction of a dark exciton Bose-Einstein condensate with the nuclei in gallium arsenide/aluminum gallium arsenide coupled quantum wells and find clear evidence for nuclear polarization buildup that accompanies the appearance of the condensate. We show that the nuclei are polarized throughout the mesa area, extending to regions that are far away from the photoexcitation area and persisting for seconds after the excitation is switched off. Photoluminescence measurements in the presence of radio frequency radiation reveal that the hyperfine interaction between the nuclear and electron spins is enhanced by two orders of magnitude. We suggest that this large enhancement manifests the collective nature of the
N
-exciton condensate, which amplifies the interaction by a factor of

N

.
Context-dependent role of group 3 innate lymphoid cells in mucosal protection
Authors: Araujo Leandro P. , Edwards Madeline , Irie Koichiro , Huang Yiming , Kawano Yoshinaga , Tran Alexander , De Michele Simona , Bhagat Govind , Wang Harris H. , Ivanov Ivaylo I.
Published: August 2024

How group 3 innate lymphoid cells (ILC3s) regulate mucosal protection in the presence of T cells remains poorly understood. Here, we examined ILC3 function in intestinal immunity using ILC3-deficient mice that maintain endogenous T cells, T helper 17 (T
H
17) cells, and secondary lymphoid organs. ILC3s were dispensable for generation of T
H
17 and T
H
22 cell responses to commensal and pathogenic bacteria, and absence of ILC3s did not affect IL-22 production by CD4 T cells before or during infection. However, despite the presence of IL-22–producing T cells, ILC3s and ILC3-derived IL-22 were required for maintaining homeostatic functions of the intestinal epithelium. T cell–sufficient, ILC3-deficient mice were capable of pathogen clearance and survived infection with a low dose of
Citrobacter rodentium
. However, ILC3s promoted pathogen tolerance at early time points of infection by activating tissue-protective immune pathways. Consequently, ILC3s were indispensable for survival after high-dose infection. Our results demonstrate a context-dependent role for ILC3s in immune-sufficient animals and provide a blueprint for uncoupling of ILC3 and T
H
17 cell functions.
Biogeographic patterns and community assembly mechanisms of bacterial community in the upper seawater of seamounts and non-seamounts in the Eastern Indian Ocean
Authors: Jiao Yaqian , Yang Shanshan , Bao Wenya
Published: August 2024

Seamounts are widespread underwater topographic features in the ocean that exert an influential role in shaping the microbial biogeographic distribution. Nevertheless, research on the differences in microbial biogeographic distribution between seamount and non-seamount upper water column is still lacking, particularly in the Indian Ocean where studies are limited. In the present study, a total of 45 seawater samples were collected from the water column (5–200 m) of seamounts (HS) and non-seamounts (E87 transect) regions in the Eastern Indian Ocean (EIO) for the analysis of microbial biogeographic patterns and community assembly processes. The results indicated that bacterial community diversity did not differ significantly between the HS and E87 transect regions; however, the community composition was significantly different. Additionally, bacterial community diversity, composition, as well as structure were more affected by depth than by region. Community diversity tended to increase with depth in E87 transect region, while it tended to decrease in HS region. A distance decay analysis also demonstrated that bacterial communities were more influenced by environmental and depth distances than geographic distances. In the assembly of bacterial communities on HS and E87 transect regions, as well as at different depths, stochastic processes, particularly dispersal limitation, were found to be predominant. These findings enhance our comprehension of bacterial community characteristics in the upper seawater of seamounts and non-seamounts regions in the EIO and offer insights into the assembly processes shaping microbial communities at varying depths.

IMPORTANCE

By comparing the bacterial diversity, composition, and structure in the upper seawater of seamount and non-seamount areas, we provide valuable insights into the influential role of seamounts in shaping microbial biogeography. The finding that the depth had a more significant impact on bacterial community characteristics than region underscores the importance of considering vertical stratification when examining microbial distributions. Moreover, the dominance of stochastic processes, particularly dispersal limitation, in governing community assembly across both seamount and non-seamount areas offers critical implications for the mechanisms underlying microbial biogeographic patterns in these dynamic ocean environments. This study expands the current knowledge and lays the groundwork for further investigations into the complex interactions between oceanographic features, environmental gradients, and microbial community dynamics in the Indian Ocean.
Protective innate immunity against
Pneumocystis
does not require Stat6-dependent macrophage polarization
Authors: Mousso T. , Pollock S. J. , Inzerillo P. C. , Gigliotti F. , Wright T. W.
Published: August 2024

Pneumocystis
species are respiratory fungal pathogens that cause life-threatening opportunistic infections in immunocompromised hosts.
Pneumocystis
typically evade pulmonary innate immunity but are efficiently eradicated by a functional adaptive immune response. FVB/NJ mice are unique in that they display protective alveolar macrophage-dependent innate immunity against
Pneumocystis
, and remain resistant to infection even in the absence of CD4
+
T lymphocyte function. FVB/NJ alveolar macrophages (AMs) were found to display an M2-biased phenotype at baseline, which was potentiated after stimulation with
Pneumocystis
, suggesting that macrophage polarization may dictate the outcome of the
Pneumocystis
–macrophage interaction. To determine whether Stat6, a key global regulator of M2 polarization, was required for FVB/NJ innate immunity, FVB Stat6
–/–
mice were generated. FVB Stat6-deficient AMs were markedly impaired in their ability to polarize to an M2 phenotype when stimulated with Th2 cytokines. However, FVB Stat6
–/–
mice remained highly resistant to infection, indicating that Stat6 signaling is dispensable for innate FVB/NJ resistance. Despite the loss of Stat6 signaling, primary AMs from FVB Stat6
–/–
mice maintained baseline expression of M2 markers, and also strongly upregulated M2-associated genes following direct stimulation with
Pneumocystis
. Additional FVB/NJ knockout strains were generated, but only FVB MerTK
–/–
mice showed a marginally increased susceptibility to
Pneumocystis
infection. Together, these findings demonstrate that effective FVB/NJ innate immunity against
Pneumocystis
does not require Stat6 signaling and suggest that alternative pathways regulate M2 bias and macrophage-mediated innate resistance in FVB/NJ mice.
Evaluation of a point-of-care rapid HIV antibody test with insights into acute HIV symptomatology in a population with low prevalence
Authors: Bui Tina I. , Farnsworth Christopher W. , Anderson Neil W.
Published: August 2024

Many emergency departments (ED) use rapid human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) antibody tests as screening tools, despite limited sensitivity for detecting acute HIV infections. In a 4-year retrospective analysis of 1,192 patients, we evaluated the performance of a third-generation rapid HIV antibody assay tested at point-of-care (POC, Chembio Sure Check HIV 1/2) against in-lab fourth-generation screening (Abbott Architect Ag/Ab Combo). Compared to complete algorithmic testing, the POC test demonstrated a 92.5% sensitivity (95% CI = 84.6–96.5), 98.1% specificity (95% CI = 97.1–98.8), 99.5% negative predictive value (NPV; 95% CI = 98.8–99.8), and a 77.9% positive predictive value (PPV; 95% CI = 68.6–85.1). Notably, the POC test failed to detect 100% (3/3) of acute HIV infections (defined as Fiebig stage 2) and 3.8% (2/52) established HIV infections, where viral loads were 5.9, 6.7, and >7 log
10
copies/mL. Symptoms such as fever, nausea/vomiting, malaise, headache, and photophobia were significantly associated with acute HIV infections diagnosed in the ED. The rapid HIV antibody test demonstrated high sensitivity, specificity, and NPV in our study population, reaffirming its effectiveness as a valuable screening tool. However, the low PPV and 100% failure to detect acute HIV infections underscore the importance of prioritizing in-lab fourth-generation HIV antigen/antibody combination immunoassays in cases of suspected acute HIV infection to ensure a timely and accurate diagnosis.
Constitutive upregulation of transcription factors underlies permissive bradyzoite differentiation in a natural isolate of
Toxoplasma gondii
Authors: Xia Jing , Fu Yong , Huang Wanyi , Uddin Taher , Sibley L. David
Published: August 2024

Toxoplasma gondii
bradyzoites play a critical role in pathology due to their long-term persistence in intermediate hosts and their potential to reactivate, resulting in severe diseases in immunocompromised individuals. Currently, there is no effective treatment for eliminating bradyzoites. Hence, better
in vitro
models of
T. gondii
bradyzoite development would facilitate identification of therapeutic targets for bradyzoites. Herein, we characterized a natural isolate of
T. gondii
, called Tg68, which showed slower
in vitro
replication of tachyzoites, and permissive bradyzoite development under stress conditions
in vitro
. Transcriptional analysis revealed constitutive expression in Tg68 tachyzoites of the key regulators of bradyzoite development including
BFD1
,
BFD2
, and several AP2 factors. Consistent with this finding, Tg68 tachyzoites expressed high levels of bradyzoite-specific genes including
BAG1
,
ENO1
, and
LDH2
. Moreover, after stress-induced differentiation, Tg68 bradyzoites exhibited gene expression profiles of mature bradyzoites, even at early time points. These data suggest that Tg68 tachyzoites exist in a pre-bradyzoite stage primed to readily develop into mature bradyzoites under stress conditions
in vitro
. Tg68 presents a novel model for differentiation
in vitro
that will serve as a useful tool for the investigation of bradyzoite biology and the development of therapeutics.

IMPORTANCE

Toxoplasma gondii
is a widespread protozoan that chronically infects ~30% of the world’s population.
T. gondii
can differentiate between the fast-growing life stage that causes acute infection and the slow-growing stage that persists in the host for extended periods of time. The slow-growing stage cannot be eliminated by the host immune response or currently known antiparasitic drugs. Studies on the slow-growing stage have been limited due to the limitations of
in vivo
experiments and the challenges of
in vitro
manipulation. Here, we characterize a natural isolate of
T. gondii
, which constitutively expresses factors that drive development and that is permissive to convert to the slow-growing stage under stress conditions
in vitro
. The strain presents a novel
in vitro
model for studying the chronic phase of toxoplasmosis and identifying new therapeutic treatments for chronic infections.
Building and validating trend-based multiple sclerosis case definitions: a population-based cohort study for Manitoba, Canada
Authors: Hamm Naomi C , Marrie Ruth Ann , Jiang Depeng , Irani Pourang , Lix Lisa
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study aims to (1) build and validate model-based case definitions for multiple sclerosis (MS) that use trends (ie, trend-based case definitions) and (2) to apply dynamic classification to identify the average number of data years needed for classification (ie, average trend needed).

Design

Retrospective cohort study design.

Participants

608 MS cases and 59 620 MS non-cases.

Setting

Data from 1 April 2004 to 31 March 2022 were obtained from the Manitoba Population Research Data Repository. MS case status was ascertained from homecare records and linked to health data. Trend-based case definitions were constructed using multivariate generalised linear mixed models applied to annual numbers of general and specialist physician visits, hospitalisations and MS healthcare contacts or medication dispensations. Dynamic classification, which ascertains cases and non-cases annually, was used to estimate mean classification time. Classification accuracy performance measures, including sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value (PPV), negative predictive value (NPV), proportion correctly classified (PCC) and F1-scores, were compared for trend-based case definitions and a deterministic case definition of 3+MS healthcare contacts or medication dispensations.

Results

When applied to the full study period, classification accuracy performance measure estimates for all case definitions exceeded 0.90, except sensitivity and PPV for the trend-based dynamic case definition (0.88, 0.64, respectively). PCC was high for all case definitions (0.94–0.99); F1-scores were lower for the trend-based case definitions compared with the deterministic case definition (0.74–0.93 vs 0.96). Dynamic classification identified 5 years as the average trend needed. When applied to the average trend windows, accuracy estimates for trend-based case definitions were lower than the estimates from the full study period (sensitivity: 0.77–0.89; specificity: 0.90–0.97; PPV: 0.54–0.81; NPV: 0.97–0.99; F1-score: 0.64–0.84). Accuracy estimates for the deterministic case definition remained high, except sensitivity (0.42–0.80). F1-score was variable (0.59–0.89).

Conclusions

Trend-based and deterministic case definitions classifications were similar to a population-based clinician assessment reference standard for multiple measures of classification accuracy. However, accuracy estimates for both trend-based and deterministic case definitions varied as the years of data used for classification were reduced. Dynamic classification appears to be a viable option for identifying the average trend needed for trend-based case definitions.