bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Does the Low and Short Medial Cut Affect Lingual Nerve Recovery after Sagittal Split Osteotomy?
Authors: Tolley Philip D. , Massenburg Benjamin B. , Higgins Julia , Ettinger Russell E. , Susarla Srinivas M.
Published: September 2023

Background:

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the recovery of lingual nerve (LN) neurosensory function in patients undergoing sagittal split osteotomy (SSO) with a low and short medial horizontal cut.

Methods:

This was a prospective study of patients with mandibular deformities undergoing SSO with a low and short medial horizontal cut over a 4-year period. The outcomes of interest were neurosensory recovery of the LN, as assessed objectively using functional sensory recovery (FSR) and subjectively by patient report.

Results:

The sample included 123 SSOs in 62 subjects with a mean age of 19.3 ± 3.1 years. Thirty-seven subjects (61.7%) were female. Mandibular advancements were performed in 52 SSOs (42.3%); mandibular setbacks were performed in 71 SSOs (57.7%). One subject underwent revision BSSO. FSR was achieved at 122 LNs (99.1%) within 6 weeks postoperatively, with 120 sites (97.5%) having S4 sensation at 6 weeks. Decreased LN sensation was reported at 10 (8.3%) sites at 1 week postoperatively. At 6 weeks postoperatively, 118 sites (97.5%) had reported normal sensation. By 12 weeks postoperatively, all LN sites had S4 sensation and there were no subjective complaints. Revision sagittal split osteotomy was associated with prolonged (≥6 weeks) time to S4 sensation (P = 0.02) and subjective complaint of decreased sensation (P = 0.02).

Conclusions:

LN sensory recovery occurs rapidly following the low and short SSO, with 99% of sites achieving FSR and subjectively normal sensation within 6 weeks of surgery and all patients achieving FSR with S4 sensation by 12 weeks postoperatively. LN sensory recovery may be prolonged in patients undergoing revision SSO.

CLINICAL QUESTION/LEVEL OF EVIDENCE:

Therapeutic, IV.
Structures of AT8 and PHF1 Phospho-Mimetic Tau: Insights Into the Posttranslational Modification Code of Tau Amyloid Formation
Authors: Mammeri Nadia El , Dregni Aurelio J. , Duan Pu , Hong Mei
Published: September 2023

The microtubule-associated protein tau aggregates into amyloid fibrils in Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative diseases. In these tauopathies, tau is hyperphosphorylated, suggesting that this posttranslational modification may induce pathological tau aggregation. Tau is also phosphorylated in normal developing brains. To investigate how tau phosphorylation induces amyloid fibrils, here we report the atomic structures of two phospho-mimetic full-length tau fibrils assembled without anionic cofactors. One set of phospho-mimetic mutations is targeted by the antibody AT8, while the other set is targeted by the antibody PHF1. Solid-state NMR and cryo-electron microscopy data reveal that AT8 tau forms a unique triangular fibril core that encompasses the entire C-terminal third of the protein, whereas PHF1 tau forms a triple-stranded core. These results demonstrate that specific post-translational modifications induce structurally specific tau aggregates. We propose that these aggregates may evolve into pathological filaments under suitable cellular conditions or remain as transient species in normal brains.
Sex-Related Outcomes of Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation with Self-Expanding or Balloon-Expandable Valves: Insights from the OPERA-TAVI Registry
Authors: Adamo Marianna , Branca Luca , Pezzola Elisa , Saia Francesco , Pilgrim Thomas , Abdel-Wahab Mohamed , Garot Philippe , Gandolfo Caterina , Fiorina Claudia , Sammartino Sofia , Latib Azeem , Santos Ignacio Amat , Mylotte Darren , De Marco Federico , De Backer Ole , Franco Luis Nombela , Akodad Mariama , Ribichini Flavio Luciano , Bedogni Francesco , Laterra Giulia , Mazzapicchi Alessandro , Tomii Daijiro , Laforgia Pietro , Cannata Stefano , Scotti Andrea , Fezzi Simone , Criscione Enrico , Poletti Enrico , Mazzucca Mattia , Lunardi Mattia , Mainardi Andrea , Andreaggi Stefano , Quagliana Angelo , Montarello Nicholas , Hennessey Breda , Mon-Noboa Matias , Meier David , Sgroi Carmelo , Reddavid Claudia Maria , Strazzieri Orazio , Motta Silvia Crescenzia , Frittitta Valentina , Dipietro Elena , Comis Alessandro , Melfa Chiara , Calì Mariachiara , Thiele Holger , Webb John G. , Sondergaard Lars , Tamburino Corrado , Metra Marco , Costa Giuliano , Barbanti Marco
Published: September 2023

Background

Evidence regarding sex-related differences in response to transcatheter aortic valve implantation according to the valve type is lacking. This study sought to evaluate the impact of sex on the treatment effect of Evolut-PRO/PRO+ (PRO) or Sapien 3 Ultra (ULTRA) devices on clinical outcomes.

Methods

Comparative Analysis of Evolut PRO vs Sapien 3 Ultra Valves for Transfemoral Transcatheter Aortic Valve Implantation (OPERA-TAVI) is a multicenter multinational registry including patients undergoing latest-iteration PRO or ULTRA implantation. Overall, 1174 out of 1897 patients were matched based on valve type and compared according to sex, while 470 males and 630 females were matched and compared according to valve type. Thirty-day and 1-year outcomes were evaluated.

Results

In both PRO and ULTRA group, males had a higher comorbidity burden, while females had smaller aortic root. Both 30-day (device success [DS], early safety outcome, permanent pacemaker implantation [PPI], patient-prosthesis mismatch [PPM], paravalvular regurgitation [PVR], bleedings, vascular complications, and all-cause death) and 1-year outcomes (all-cause death, stroke and heart failure hospitalization) did not differ according to sex in both valve groups. However, male sex decreased the likelihood of 30-day DS with ULTRA versus PRO (p for interaction 0.047). A higher risk of 30-day PPI and 1-year stroke, and a lower risk of PPM was observed in PRO versus ULTRA, regardless of sex. No other differences were noted.

Conclusions

Sex did not modify the treatment effect of PRO versus ULTRA on clinical outcomes, with the exception of 30-day DS that was decreased in males (versus females) receiving ULTRA (versus PRO).
Hormonal and transcriptomic analysis reveals the role of ABA and BR in breaking the barrier of inter-subgeneric hybridization in water lily (Nymphaea)
Authors: Zhou Ping , Li Jingwen , Jiang Huiyan , Yang Zhijuan , Sun Chunqing , Wang Hongyan , Su Qun , Jin Qijiang , Wang Yanjie , Xu Yingchun
Published: September 2023

Understanding the process of signal communication between pollen and stigma is of significant importance for plant sexual reproduction. In the case of inter-subgeneric hybridization in water lily, there exists a pre-fertilization hybridization barrier, the regulatory mechanism of which remains unclear. In this study, we conducted hormone and transcriptome analyses of unpollinated stigmas (Mock), self-pollinated stigmas (SP), cross-pollinated stigmas within the same subgenus (CP), and inter-subgenus cross-pollination stigmas (ISCP) in water lily to elucidate the formation mechanism of the inter-subgeneric hybridization barrier. Our results indicated that the lack of ABA and BR in ISCP stigmas are key factors contributing to the formation of the inter-subgeneric hybridization barrier in water lily. Exogenous application of ABA and BR can help overcome the barrier between inter-subgeneric water lily crosses. Through transcriptome analysis, we identified nine candidate genes involved in regulating the inter-subgeneric hybridization barrier in water lily. In addition, we further demonstrated the importance of the NCED2-mediated ABA synthesis pathway in the hybridization process through AS-ODN technology. Our study confirms that ABA and BR are critical for breaking the inter-subgeneric hybridization barrier in water lily. The identification of the nine candidate genes provides important clues for further research on the hybridization recognition mechanism in water lily.
From populations to pan-genomes: investigating the role of ecology and genomic architecture in maintaining species boundaries in the porcini mushroom,Boletus edulis
Authors: Tremble Keaton S , Brejon Lamartiniere Etienne , Bradshaw Alexander James , Flores Arzu Roberto , Vilgalys Rytas , Hoffman Joseph I. , Dentinger Bryn
Published: September 2023

Hybridization among diverged species is common across all domains of eukaryotic life, but appears to be particularly common in fungi. However, some fungi exhibit a greater tendency for hybridization than others and it is unclear what mechanisms facilitate or prevent hybridization. Here, we generated 253 whole genome sequences and 22 reference genomes within the globally distributed ectomycorrhizal species complex Boletus edulis Bull. and use a multi-faceted genomic approach to identify patterns of ongoing hybridization and determine whether hybridization is mediated by changes in genome structure, ecology, or both. We found that hybridization is common among species of B. edulis despite 2.1 million years of divergence. However, not all lineages that hybridize today exhibit patterns of introgression, indicating the presence of strong reproductive boundaries among some species. Using a pan-genomic approach we find that genome structural variation is abundant within B. edulis, but that the presence of ongoing introgression does not correlate with genome structural similarity or overall gene content. Instead, we find that the composition of ecologically relevant gene families more accurately predicts the presence of introgression among lineages and B. edulis as a group may specialize on chitin decomposition. Altogether, we show that ecological preferences are likely the primary driver of reproductive barriers in B. edulis
Prevalence and factors associated with sarcopenia among older adults in a post-acute hospital in Singapore
Authors: Tan Charmaine You Mei , Seah Sharna Si Ying , Lim Doris Yanshan , Koh Siew Van , Ganeshan Karthikeyan , Xia Olivia Jiawen , Low Xuan Lin , Quek Hui Yi , Ong Andrea Shuyi , Low Lian Leng , Aw Junjie
Published: September 2023

Background

Sarcopenia is common in older adults worldwide, but its prevalence varies widely owing to differences in diagnostic criteria, population sampled, and care setting. We aimed to determine the prevalence and factors associated with sarcopenia in patients aged 65 and above admitted to a post-acute hospital in Singapore.

Methods

This was a cross-sectional study of 400 patients recruited from a community hospital in Singapore. Data including socio-demographics, physical activity, nutritional status, cognition, clinical and functional status, as well as anthropometric measurements were collected. Sarcopenia was defined using the Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia 2019 criteria (AWGS2019).

Results

Of the 383 patients with complete datasets, overall prevalence of sarcopenia was 54% while prevalence of severe sarcopenia was 38.9%. Participants with increased age, male gender and a low physical activity level were more likely to be sarcopenic, while those with higher hip circumference and higher BMI of ≥27.5m/kg2 were less likely to be sarcopenic. Other than the above-mentioned variables, cognitive impairment was also associated with severe sarcopenia.

Conclusions

There is a high prevalence of sarcopenia in older patients admitted to a post-acute hospital in Singapore. There is an urgent need to address this important clinical syndrome burden and to identify patients at higher risk of sarcopenia in post-acute settings in Singapore for early intervention.

Key points

One in two older adults are sarcopenic and one in three older adults are severely sarcopenic in a post-acute setting, indicating a high prevalence of sarcopenia and underscoring the urgency to address sarcopenia now.

Age, sex, physical activity, hip circumference and BMI are associations with sarcopenia. In addition, cognition is also associated with severe sarcopenia.

This is the first inpatient study in Singapore looking at sarcopenia associations and it lends support to global literature on associations of sarcopenia and allows for possible interventions to target modifiable risk factors in sarcopenia.
The well-being of Australian primary school principals: a study of the key concerns
Authors: Gorrell Amber , De Nobile John
Published: September 2023

Purpose

As part of a broader qualitative study on well-being and social support, the study reported here explored the issue of principal well-being to provide further insight into the concerns of principals. Its aim was to identify aspects of the principal role that impact on well-being.

Design/methodology/approach

A phenomenological approach was used to study the experiences of the principals. Eight primary school principals in New South Wales, Australia participated in semi-structured interviews that examined this area and identified aspects of their leadership role that influence their well-being. Purposive sampling was used to ensure representation in terms of gender and school size.

Findings

Five themes emerged as the key concerns of the principals: the responsibility of the role; managing people; feelings of isolation; the stress caused by the role; and prioritising the well-being of staff. Comments from the principals highlight how each of these areas is experienced.

Originality/value

Identifying and exploring these concerns added to the extant research on principal well-being by providing detail on the specific experiences of principals. The study also offers a basis to consider how the current situation may be improved by addressing the well-being concerns that are common, as well as highlighting areas that warrant further research attention.
Developing a brief assessment of social risks for the Veterans Health Administration Survey of Healthcare Experiences of Patients
Authors: Hausmann Leslie R. M. , Cohen Alicia J. , Eliacin Johanne , Gurewich Deborah A. , Lee Richard E. , McCoy Jennifer L. , Meterko Mark , Michaels Zachary , Moy Ernest M. , Procario Gregory T. , Russell Lauren E. , Schaefer James H.
Published: September 2023

Objective

To determine whether a 6‐ or 12‐month look‐back period affected rates of reported social risks in a social risk survey for use in the Veterans Health Administration and to assess associations of social risks with overall health and mental health.

Study Design

Cross‐sectional survey of respondents randomized to 6‐ or 12‐month look‐back period.

Data Sources and Study Setting

Online survey with a convenience sample of Veterans in June and July 2021.

Data Collection/Extraction Methods

Veteran volunteers were recruited by email to complete a survey assessing social risks, including financial strain, adult caregiving, childcare, food insecurity, housing, transportation, internet access, loneliness/isolation, stress, discrimination, and legal issues. Outcomes included self‐reported overall health and mental health. Chi‐squared tests compared the prevalence of reported social risks between 6‐ and 12‐month look‐back periods. Spearman correlations assessed associations among social risks. Bivariate and multivariable logistic regression models estimated associations between social risks and fair/poor overall and mental health.

Principal Findings

Of 3418 Veterans contacted, 1063 (31.10%) responded (87.11% male; 85.61% non‐Hispanic White; median age = 70, interquartile range [IQR] = 61–74). Prevalence of most reported social risks did not significantly differ by look‐back period. Most social risks were weakly intercorrelated (median |r| = 0.24, IQR = 0.16‐0.31). Except for legal issues, all social risks were associated with higher odds of fair/poor overall health and mental health in bivariate models. In models containing all significant social risks from bivariate models, adult caregiving and stress remained significant predictors of overall health; food insecurity, housing, loneliness/isolation, and stress remained significant for mental health.

Conclusions

Six‐ and 12‐month look‐back periods yielded similar rates of reported social risks. Although most individual social risks are associated with fair/poor overall and mental health, when examined together, only adult caregiving, stress, loneliness/isolation, food, and housing remain significant.
Australian dietitians' confidence in their knowledge and skills working with older adults in aged care: A national survey
Authors: Bartrim Karly , Moyle Wendy , Wright Olivia R. L. , Ball Lauren
Published: September 2023

Aim

This study aimed to describe dietitians' confidence in their knowledge and skills working with older adults in residential aged care facilities or home care services.

Methods

A novel, quantitative online survey was distributed to aged care dietitians. Activities, knowledge, and skills areas outlined by the Dietitians Australia ‘Older Persons and Aged Care Dietitian Role Statement’ were included in the 23‐item survey. Likert scales captured participant responses. Median responses (n, %) are presented. Associations between participants' confidence in their knowledge and skills and years of experience working in aged care were explored using Pearson's chi‐squared tests.

Results

Dietitians completed the survey (N = 125; age: 40 ± 13 years [mean ± SD]; 97.6% female). Dietitians reported they “always” worked collaboratively (n = 65%, 52%) and ‘often’ prescribed supplements (n = 52%, 41.6%) and utilised a food‐first approach (n = 36%, 28.8%). Dietitians ‘sometimes’ conducted malnutrition screening (n = 28%, 22.4%), audits (n = 36%, 28.8%), nutrition education (n = 53%, 42.4%) and quality improvement activities (n = 28%, 22.4%). Dietitians ‘rarely’ utilised food service/standards (n = 38%, 30.4%) and nutrition/hydration procedures (n = 35%, 28.0%). Dietitians with ≥6 years of experience were more confident than dietitians with 0–5 years in providing support programs (p = 0.003), utilising healthcare policies (p = 0.013), interpreting quality assessment (p = 0.014) and communication skills (p = 0.047). Dietitians felt ‘completely’ or ‘fairly’ confident in all knowledge and skill areas, except for government and community support programs (n = 38%, 30.4%) rated ‘somewhat’ confident.

Conclusion

Aged care dietitians are confident in most aspects of their role but have opportunities to be better supported. Developing the confidence of higher‐level systems and communication in early career dietitians is warranted.
Ionic strength–mediated protein and flavor studies on thermally processed hairtail pieces
Authors: Liu Shuyu , Cai Xinya , Tang Zhixin , Hu Zhiheng , Li Yuan , Hu Yaqin
Published: September 2023

This study aimed to investigate the impact of different ionic strengths on the texture, protein, and flavor of thermally processed hairtail pieces. Incorporating salt ions into the heat treatment process had a positive impact on the quality of the cooked hairtail pieces. The pieces treated with 2 M NaCl showed superior texture and sensory scores. The ionic strength had a significant positive correlation with the chewiness and cohesion of cooked hairtail (p < 0.01). Furthermore, the myofibrillar protein content and total sulfhydryl content increased significantly. Circular dichroism spectra analysis revealed a transition in the protein structure from a β‐sheet structure to an α‐helical structure as the ionic strength decreased. The ionic strength had a significant impact on the interaction between protein and flavor compounds. Specifically, it impacted the expression of certain volatile components (p < 0.05). Our study suggests that selecting the appropriate cooking method is crucial for both healthiness and sensory quality of processed hairtail products, and ionic strength mediation is superior in both aspects.
Artificial intelligence‐powered spatial analysis of tumor‐infiltrating lymphocytes as a biomarker in locally advanced unresectable thymic epithelial neoplasm: A single‐center, retrospective, longitudinal cohort study
Authors: Kim Dong Hyun , Lim Yoojoo , Kim Sukjun , Ock Chan‐Young , Youk Jeonghwan , Kim Miso , Kim Tae Min , Kim Dong‐Wan , Kim Hak Jae , Koh Jiwon , Jung Kyeong Cheon , Na Kwon Joong , Kang Chang Hyun , Keam Bhumsuk
Published: September 2023

Background

Thymic epithelial tumors (TET) are rare malignancies and lack well‐defined biomarkers for neoadjuvant therapy. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical utility of artificial intelligence (AI)‐powered tumor‐infiltrating lymphocyte (TIL) analysis in TET.

Methods

Patients initially diagnosed with unresectable thymoma or thymic carcinoma who underwent neoadjuvant therapy between January 2004 and December 2021 formed our study population. Hematoxylin and eosin‐stained sections from the initial biopsy and surgery were analyzed using an AI‐powered spatial TIL analyzer. Intratumoral TIL (iTIL) and stromal TIL (sTIL) were quantified and their immune phenotype (IP) was identified.

Results

Thirty‐five patients were included in this study. The proportion of patients with partial response to neoadjuvant therapy was higher in the group with nondesert IP in preneoadjuvant biopsy (63.6% vs. 17.6%, p = 0.038). A significant increase in both iTIL (median 22.18/mm2 vs. 340.69/mm2, p < 0.001) and sTIL (median 175.19/mm2 vs. 531.02/mm2, p = 0.004) was observed after neoadjuvant therapy. Patients with higher iTIL (>147/mm2) exhibited longer disease‐free survival (median, 29 months vs. 12 months, p = 0.009) and overall survival (OS) (median, 62 months vs. 45 months, p = 0.002). Patients with higher sTIL (>232.1/mm2) exhibited longer OS (median 62 months vs. 30 months, p = 0.021).

Conclusions

Nondesert IP in initial biopsy was associated with a better response to neoadjuvant therapy. Increased infiltration of both iTIL and sTIL in surgical specimens were associated with longer OS in patients with TET who underwent resection followed by neoadjuvant therapy.
CircPKM2 aggravates the progression of non‐small cell lung cancer by regulating MTDH via miR‐1298‐5p
Authors: Gao Shuhua , Gao Tingting , Feng Li , Li Haixia , Dong Guogang , Yang Shan
Published: September 2023

Background

Non‐small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is the most common type of lung cancer with high morbidity and mortality. The role of dysregulated circular RNAs (circRNAs) in human diseases are receiving more and more attention. In this study, we focused on the role and mechanism of circPKM2 in the progression of NSCLC.

Methods

The expression levels of circPKM2, microRNA‐1298‐5p (miR‐1298‐5p) and metadherin (MTDH) in NSCLC were measured by real‐time quantitative PCR (qRT‐PCR) or Western blot. Cell counting kit‐8 (CCK‐8), colony formation, 5‐ethynyl‐2′‐deoxyuridine (EdU) staining, flow cytometry, transwell and tube formation assays were conducted to evaluate the effects of circPKM2 on malignant phenotypes of NSCLC. Western blot was used to measure related marker protein levels.

Results

CircPKM2 and MTDH were highly expressed in NSCLC tissues and cells, while miR‐1298‐5p was downregulated. CircPKM2 knockdown effectively suppressed cell proliferation, migration, invasion and tube formation whereas induced apoptosis in vitro. CircPKM2 had a potential targeting site with miR‐1298‐5p and negatively regulated the expression of miR‐1298‐5p. MiR‐1298‐5p inhibitor reversed the effect of circPKM2 knockdown on the progression of NSCLC. CircPKM2 induced MTDH expression via sponging miR‐1298‐5p to promote the progression of NSCLC. MiR‐1298‐5p directly targeted MTDH, and the addition of MTDH partially attenuated the inhibition of miR‐1298‐5p on the progression of NSCLC. In addition, the downregulation of circPKM2 significantly slowed down the growth of xenograft tumors in vivo.

Conclusion

Our findings demonstrated that circPKM2 mediated NSCLC progression via regulating miR‐1298‐5p/MTDH axis, providing a novel therapeutic target for NSCLC.
Iron overload induces cerebral endothelial senescence in aged mice and in primary culture in a sex‐dependent manner
Authors: Noh Brian , Blasco‐Conesa Maria Pilar , Rahman Syed Mushfiqur , Monga Sheelu , Ritzel Rodney , Guzman Gary , Lai Yun‐Ju , Ganesh Bhanu Priya , Urayama Akihiko , McCullough Louise D. , Moruno‐Manchon Jose Felix
Published: September 2023

Iron imbalance in the brain negatively affects brain function. With aging, iron levels increase in the brain and contribute to brain damage and neurological disorders. Changes in the cerebral vasculature with aging may enhance iron entry into the brain parenchyma, leading to iron overload and its deleterious consequences. Endothelial senescence has emerged as an important contributor to age‐related changes in the cerebral vasculature. Evidence indicates that iron overload may induce senescence in cultured cell lines. Importantly, cells derived from female human and mice generally show enhanced senescence‐associated phenotype, compared with males. Thus, we hypothesize that cerebral endothelial cells (CEC) derived from aged female mice are more susceptible to iron‐induced senescence, compared with CEC from aged males. We found that aged female mice, but not males, showed cognitive deficits when chronically treated with ferric citrate (FC), and their brains and the brain vasculature showed senescence‐associated phenotype. We also found that primary culture of CEC derived from aged female mice, but not male‐derived CEC, exhibited senescence‐associated phenotype when treated with FC. We identified that the transmembrane receptor Robo4 was downregulated in the brain vasculature and in cultured primary CEC derived from aged female mice, compared with those from male mice. We discovered that Robo4 downregulation contributed to enhanced vulnerability to FC‐induced senescence. Thus, our study identifies Robo4 downregulation as a driver of senescence induced by iron overload in primary culture of CEC and a potential risk factor of brain vasculature impairment and brain dysfunction.
Investigating the abundance and diversity of sawflies (Hymenoptera, Symphyta) within commercial Sitka spruce plantation forests in mid‐Wales
Authors: Enston A. , Williams D. T.
Published: September 2023

Sitka spruce is a widely planted and economically important tree species in the United Kingdom; hence, identifying any future biotic or abiotic threats to its productivity is important. Defoliating insects are widely considered to be major forest disturbance agents, and these can include the sawflies (Symphyta), which are well known to reach high population densities that can cause significant outbreak events, leading to tree mortality or impacts on growth.

The aim of the current study was to investigate the abundance and diversity of sawflies within stands of Sitka spruce over an elevation range and to evaluate whether there were any potentially important species present. Experimental plots were established in two commercial forest plantations in mid‐Wales, and the adult sawfly community was assessed over a 3‐year period using yellow pan traps.

Sixty species of sawfly were caught over the 3‐year period, which accounted for >11% of all known British sawfly species. Results indicated that there were generally greater abundance and diversity of sawflies at lower elevational plots, where temperatures were higher. The most abundant sawfly species captured in the study was the notable defoliator species, the mountain spruce sawfly (Epicenematus montanus), which was found in particularly high numbers in the low‐elevation plot in Hafren forest. A further seven spruce‐associated sawfly species were also caught across the experimental plots.

The study highlighted the presence of a number of notable spruce‐associated sawfly species (E. montanus and Pristiphora spp.), some of which have caused significant defoliation of spruce (Picea) species in Europe. The generally higher abundance of these sawflies at lower elevations indicated that Sitka spruce may potentially become more vulnerable to defoliation events caused by sawfly outbreaks in the future, especially when considering current projected climate change predictions.
The bridge
Authors: Kunreuther Laura
Published: September 2023

This piece of flash ethnography is based on the experience of making a film with interpreters, who are also refugees, based in Kakuma Refugee Camp. The film, The Bridge, was inspired by a collaborative research project I undertook with several of the interpreters, who then became filmmakers, about the labor of interpreters done for humanitarian agencies in the Camp. In life and film, interpreters become the living infrastructure for the humanitarian project within which they exist.
Prehabilitation for general surgery: a systematic review of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Kovoor Joshua G. , Nann Silas D. , Barot Dwarkesh D. , Garg Devanshu , Hains Lewis , Stretton Brandon , Ovenden Christopher D. , Bacchi Stephen , Chan Erick , Gupta Aashray K. , Hugh Thomas J.
Published: September 2023

Background

Prehabilitation seeks to optimize patient health before surgery to improve outcomes. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) have been conducted on prehabilitation, however an updated synthesis of this evidence is required across General Surgery to inform potential Supplementary discipline‐level protocols. Accordingly, this systematic review of RCTs aimed to evaluate the use of prehabilitation interventions across the discipline of General Surgery.

Methods

This study was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42023403289), and adhered to PRISMA 2020 and SWiM guidelines. PubMed/MEDLINE and Ovid Embase were searched to 4 March 2023 for RCTs evaluating prehabilitation interventions within the discipline of General Surgery. After data extraction, risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane RoB 2 tool. Quantitative and qualitative data were synthesized and analysed. However, meta‐analysis was precluded due to heterogeneity across included studies.

Results

From 929 records, 36 RCTs of mostly low risk of bias were included. 17 (47.2%) were from Europe, and 14 (38.9%) North America. 30 (83.3%) investigated cancer populations. 31 (86.1%) investigated physical interventions, finding no significant difference in 16 (51.6%) and significant improvement in 14 (45.2%). Nine (25%) investigated psychological interventions: six (66.7%) found significant improvement, three (33.3%) found no significant difference. Five (13.9%) investigated nutritional interventions, finding no significant difference in three (60%), and significant improvement in two (40%).

Conclusions

Prehabilitation interventions showed mixed levels of effectiveness, and there is insufficient RCT evidence to suggest system‐level delivery across General Surgery within standardized protocols. However, given potential benefits and non‐inferiority to standard care, they should be considered on a case‐by‐case basis.
Choice of topical substances in the conservative management of Exomphalos – A systematic review
Authors: Goneidy Ayman , Saxena Amulya K.
Published: September 2023

Aim

Exomphalos is a congenital anomaly found in 1/4500 newborns. Choice of non‐operative management of exomphalos major unamenable to primary repair is controversial. This study aims at reviewing conservative management modalities and compare outcomes and complications.

Methods

A systematic review was performed according to PRISMA guidelines of all English publications in MEDLINE and EMBASE databases. Search words were exomphalos OR omphalocoele AND conservative OR non‐operative AND management. Studies were scrutinised for patient demographics, co‐morbidities, mode of treatment, time to full feeds, time to full epithelialisation, length of stay, complications and mortality. Studies not specifically describing mode of management and/or describing primary or staged surgical repairs were excluded.

Results

Initial search resulted in 1243 studies. Forty‐two studies were deemed suitable offering 822 patients for analysis after excluding duplicates and non‐eligible studies. Management methods varied including painting with Alcohol, Mercurochrome, silver products, Povidone Iodine, honey and other materials. Mortality was mostly due to associated anomalies. There was mixed reporting of alcohol, silver, Povidone Iodine and mercury toxicity as well as infection during the course of treatment.

Conclusion

This report has recognised the variations in topical substances employed for conservative management with no clear consensus. Reports on safety of different methods remain unclear.
Comparison of oral esomeprazole and oral omeprazole in the treatment of equine squamous gastric disease
Authors: Sundra Tania , Gough Sarah , Rossi Gabriele , Kelty Erin , Rendle David
Published: September 2023

Background

Oral omeprazole is the accepted treatment for equine squamous gastric disease (ESGD); however, it is not universally effective. Esomeprazole results in more consistent and pronounced acid suppression in men and is more effective than omeprazole in the treatment of oesophageal and gastric disease. Pharmacodynamic and pilot clinical studies have indicated esomeprazole might also be more effective than omeprazole in horses.

Objectives

To compare the efficacy and safety of oral esomeprazole and omeprazole pastes in the treatment of ESGD and, where present, concurrent equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD).

Study design

Randomised, single‐blinded controlled trial.

Methods

Horses presenting with grade ≥2 ESGD lesions were randomly allocated to receive 4 mg/kg of either a buffered esomeprazole or omeprazole paste orally once daily for 28 days before gastroscopy being repeated within a further 3 days. Videos and images were anonymised and subsequently graded blind by one researcher. The severity of ESGD (and EGGD) lesions before and after treatment, and thereby treatment responses, were compared using univariable logistic regression.

Results

A higher proportion of horses had ESGD healing in response to esomeprazole treatment (63/74, 85%) than with omeprazole treatment (43/73, 59%) (odds ratio [OR]: 4.00, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.81, 8.82, p = 0.001). In a subset of horses that had concurrent EGGD, a greater proportion of the horses treated with esomeprazole had lesions ≤grade 1 (esomeprazole 28/51, 55%; omeprazole 6/24, 25%; OR: 3.65, 95% CI: 1.25, 10.71, p = 0.02) Using grade 0 as the benchmark for EGGD healing, the difference remained significant (OR: 4.44, 95% CI: 1.33, 14.85, p = 0.02).

Main limitations

It may not be possible to extrapolate these results to other populations with different signalment or management.

Conclusions

Oral‐buffered esomeprazole was a more effective treatment for ESGD (and concurrent EGGD) than oral‐buffered omeprazole.
Microbial race to colonise leaf litter in a littoral‐lake environment and its relation to nutrient dynamics
Authors: Madaschi Candela , Cuassolo Florencia , Diaz‐Villanueva Verónica
Published: September 2023

Litter colonisation by fungi and bacteria is essential for decomposition. Although algae are not directly related to the decomposition process, in lentic environment, they usually colonise leaf litter rapidly and stimulate the activity of heterotrophs. We hypothesised that the timing of litter entering the water determines a rapid colonisation by algae, which affects fungal and bacterial colonisation, nutrient dynamics of leaf litter, and decomposition rates.

We incubated two leaf litter species,Nothofagus antarcticaandPotentilla anserina, in the littoral zone of a lake under two conditions: submerged from the beginning (aquatic: AQ) and near the shoreline (initially terrestrial: T‐A). The T‐A treatment was flooded on day 44, so the decomposition process continued in aquatic conditions. We estimated two decomposition rates, one before day 42 (k42) and one for the whole incubation period (ka), algal and fungal biomass, bacterial abundance, and nutrient (P and N) content in leaf litter throughout the experiment.

The timing of litter entering the water affected decomposition rates,k42andkawere faster in AQ than in T‐A conditions and only thekawas faster inP. anserinathan inN. antarctica.

Microbial colonisation was also affected. Algal biomass was always higher in the AQ treatment, but bacterial abundance differed between treatments and changed through the decomposition process. Fungal biomass depended on both the treatment and the litter species. Bacterial–algal and fungal–algal relationships in AQ treatment were synergistic and independent of time, while, with terrestrial exposure, microbial relationships depended on the stage of the decomposition process.

Nutrient dynamics depended on the treatment and the species, but both species tended to gain or maintain nutrient content throughout the experiment. Fungi were related to N:P changes through the decomposition process.

Our results suggest that the conspicuous growth of an autotrophic biofilm on some litter (inP. anserina) might retard decomposition but at the same time stimulate heterotrophic colonisation. Therefore, the study of decomposition in the littoral zone of lakes must include the autotrophic component of biofilms that grow on detritus, since it alters organic matter consumption by decomposers and nutrient dynamics.
Validation of self‐reported articulatory oral motor skill against objectively measured repetitive articulatory rate in community‐dwelling older Japanese adults: The Otassha Study
Authors: Iwasaki Masanori , Shirobe Maki , Motokawa Keiko , Hayakawa Misato , Miura Kazuhito , Kalantar Lena , Edahiro Ayako , Kawai Hisashi , Fujiwara Yoshinori , Ihara Kazushige , Watanabe Yutaka , Obuchi Shuichi , Hirano Hirohiko
Published: September 2023

Aim

To assess the validity of self‐reported articulatory oral motor skill against objectively measured repetitive articulatory rate (oral diadochokinesis [oral‐DDK]) as a gold standard index for articulatory oral motor skill in community‐dwelling older Japanese adults.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study included 607 Japanese adults (mean age = 73.9 years). A single‐item self‐report questionnaire for articulatory oral motor skill was developed. Study participants completed a 1‐month‐interval test–retest protocol to assess reliability of the questionnaire, and the protocol was tested by the kappa statistic. Oral‐DDK with /ta/ (i.e., the number of repetitions of the monosyllable /ta/ per second) was measured during the on‐site examination. Low oral‐DDK performance was defined as <5.2 times/s in men and <5.4 times/s in women. Oral‐DDK performance, oral functions other than articulatory oral motor skill, and physical frailty were compared in the groups with and without self‐reported low articulatory oral motor skill as determined by the response to the questionnaire.

Results

Self‐reported low articulatory oral motor skill was identified in 18.5% of the study population. The self‐report questionnaire had good test–retest reliability, with a kappa statistic of 0.71. Self‐reported low articulatory oral motor skill was significantly associated with a lower value of oral‐DDK with /ta/ and a higher proportion of low oral‐DDK performance, difficulties in chewing and swallowing, dry mouth, and physical frailty. Self‐report had high specificity (83.1%) but low sensitivity (42.1%) for detecting low oral‐DDK performance.

Conclusions

A single‐item self‐report questionnaire for articulatory oral motor skill had acceptable test–retest reliability and was associated with objectively measured articulatory oral motor skill.Geriatr Gerontol Int 2023; 23: 729–735.
Medicine in the field: Growing connections between environmental and medical history
Authors: Heggie Vanessa
Published: September 2023

This article argues that Environmental History and History of Medicine are disciplines that are natural allies and productive partners; successfully working across the sub‐disciplines will be essential to understanding current and future crises, including climate change and pandemics. While it is relatively easy to find acknowledged intersections between histories of science and/or technology and of the environment, so far these are less systematic and substantial in the history of medicine. Partly this is because there are points of serious methodological and theoretical tension, but I argue that these can function as moments of contact and provocation. Most obviously Environmental History poses challenges to historians of medicine in terms of the scale of our work in both its chronological and conceptual reach, and how we incorporate the non‐human, and even the non‐biotic as historical actors. History of Medicine offers approaches to help environmental historians negotiate their relationships with science, in particular the balance between science as a subject of study or as a source of data. Both disciplines share the struggle of combining focused, heavily contextualised local histories with the pressing need for globalised and ‘big picture’ historical explanations. In this review I will outline the main historiographical challenges to working across these subdisciplines—particularly in terms of scale and focus—and then consider the most productive intersections of these fields before making recommendations for future collaborative work.
Desigualdad e informalidad desde un nuevo prisma. El caso de América Latina
Authors: AMARANTE Verónica , ARIM Rodrigo
Published: September 2023

Muchas economías en desarrollo comparten dos rasgos distintivos: altos niveles de desigualdad de ingresos y una considerable proporción de empleo informal. Sin embargo, no abunda la bibliografía sobre la relación entre ambas variables, sobre todo en el caso de América Latina. En este artículo se analizan diversos factores que pueden influir en el signo de la ambigua relación entre desigualdad e informalidad. Comprobamos empíricamente esta relación utilizando datos de panel de América Latina correspondientes al periodo 1990‐2018. En las condiciones específicas de la región, los resultados muestran una asociación positiva entre la formalización del mercado de trabajo y la igualdad de ingresos laborales.
Cochrane review abstracts are getting longer, but this has no large impact on the reporting quality
Authors: Helbach Jasmin , Wandscher Kathrin , Pieper Dawid , Hoffmann Falk
Published: September 2023

Objective

To evaluate the reporting of abstracts of Cochrane Reviews according to PRISMA‐A and to investigate a possible association with the abstract´s length.

Methods

This is a retrospective, observational study based on all Cochrane Reviews indexed in Medline (via PubMed) until November 18, 2022. In the second part, a random sample of 440 abstracts was drawn, in which PRISMA‐A adherence was assessed by two independent reviewers. Analyses were stratified by the year of publication and the number of words.

Results

Overall, the median number of words of the 15,188 included abstracts was 469 (IQR 389–686 words), steadily increasing from 353 words in 2000 to 838 words in 2022, with less than one percent of the abstracts in 2022 having ≤ 300 words (in 2000: 30.7%). Analyses on PRISMA‐A adherence in the random sample showed a mean score of 6.1 out of 12 fully reported items. Stratified by year, PRISMA‐A adherence increased, with higher word counts in 2000–2010 and 2011–2015, while there was no difference in PRISMA‐A adherence by abstract length in 2016–2022.

Conclusion

Over the years, abstracts of Cochrane Reviews have become longer, running up to 1000 words. This conflicts with the Cochrane Handbook, which recommends a maximum length of 400 until it was aligned with MECIR in 2019, which has recommended a length of <700 words since 2012 but allows up to 1000 words. It is debatable whether such long abstracts meet the key goals of abstracts of being informative, accurate, appealing, and concise.
Guidelines for high‐flow nasal cannula oxygen therapy in neonates (2022)
Authors: Huang Yi , Zhao Jing , Hua Xintian , Luo Keren , Shi Yuan , Lin Zhenlang , Tang Jun , Feng Zhichun , Mu Dezhi ,   Evidence‐Based Medicine Group, Neonatologist Society, Chinese Medical Doctor Association
Published: September 2023

High‐flow nasal cannula (HFNC) oxygen therapy, which is important in noninvasive respiratory support, is increasingly being used in critically ill neonates with respiratory failure because it is comfortable, easy to setup, and has a low incidence of nasal trauma. The advantages, indications, and risks of HFNC have been the focus of research in recent years, resulting in the development of the application. Based on current evidence, we developed guidelines for HFNC in neonates using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation (GRADE). The guidelines were formulated after extensive consultations with neonatologists, respiratory therapists, nurse specialists, and evidence‐based medicine experts. We have proposed 24 recommendations for 9 key questions. The guidelines aim to be a source of evidence and reference of HFNC oxygen therapy in clinical practice, and so that more neonates and their families will benefit from HFNC.
Association Between Area‐Level Income Inequality and Health‐Related School Absenteeism: Evidence From the COMPASS Study
Authors: Hunter Stephen , Hilario Carla , Patte Karen A. , Leatherdale Scott T. , Pabayo Roman
Published: September 2023

BACKGROUND

Income inequality is theorized to impact health. However, evidence among adolescents is limited. This study examined the association between income inequality and health‐related school absenteeism (HRSA) in adolescents.

METHODS

Participants were adolescents (n = 74,501) attending secondary schools (n = 136) that participated in the 2018‐2019 wave of the COMPASS study. Chronic (missing ≥3 days of school in the previous 4 weeks) and problematic (missing ≥11 days of school in the previous 4 weeks) HRSA was self‐reported. Income inequality was assessed via the Gini coefficient at the census division (CD) level. Multilevel modeling was used.

RESULTS

Greater income inequality was associated with a higher likelihood of chronic and problematic HRSA (chronic: OR = 1.17, 95% CI: 1.06, 1.30; problematic: OR = 1.29, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.50). Increased predicted probabilities for Problematic HRSA were observed at greater degrees of income inequality among students who identified as either white, black, Latinx, or mixed, while protective associations were observed among students who identified as Asian or other. No associations were modified by gender.

CONCLUSION

Income inequality demonstrated unfavorable associations with HRSA, which was modified by racial identity.