bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Persist: Persistent and Reusable Interactions in Computational Notebooks
Authors: Gadhave K. , Cutler Z. , Lex A.
Published: June 2024

Computational notebooks, such as Jupyter, support rich data visualization. However, even when visualizations in notebooks are interactive, they are a dead end: Interactive data manipulations, such as selections, applying labels, filters, categorizations, or fixes to column or cell values, could be efficiently applied in interactive visual components, but interactive components typically cannot manipulate Python data structures. Furthermore, actions performed in interactive plots are lost as soon as the cell is re‐run, prohibiting reusability and reproducibility. To remedy this problem, we introduce Persist, a family of techniques to (a) capture interaction provenance, enabling the persistence of interactions, and (b) map interactions to data manipulations that can be applied to dataframes. We implement our approach as a JupyterLab extension that supports tracking interactions in Vega‐Altair plots and in a data table view. Persist can re‐execute interaction provenance when a notebook or a cell is re‐executed, enabling reproducibility and re‐use. We evaluate Persist in a user study targeting data manipulations with 11 participants skilled in Python and Pandas, comparing it to traditional code‐based approaches. Participants were consistently faster and were able to correctly complete more tasks with Persist.
The State of the Art in Visual Analytics for 3D Urban Data
Authors: Miranda Fabio , Ortner Thomas , Moreira Gustavo , Hosseini Maryam , Vuckovic Milena , Biljecki Filip , Silva Claudio T. , Lage Marcos , Ferreira Nivan
Published: June 2024

Urbanization has amplified the importance of three‐dimensional structures in urban environments for a wide range of phenomena that are of significant interest to diverse stakeholders. With the growing availability of 3D urban data, numerous studies have focused on developing visual analysis techniques tailored to the unique characteristics of urban environments. However, incorporating the third dimension into visual analytics introduces additional challenges in designing effective visual tools to tackle urban data's diverse complexities. In this paper, we present a survey on visual analytics of 3D urban data. Our work characterizes published works along three main dimensions (why, what, andhow), considering use cases, analysis tasks, data, visualizations, and interactions. We provide a fine‐grained categorization of published works from visualization journals and conferences, as well as from a myriad of urban domains, including urban planning, architecture, and engineering. By incorporating perspectives from both urban and visualization experts, we identify literature gaps, motivate visualization researchers to understand challenges and opportunities, and indicate future research directions.
Alveolar ridge preservation versus early implant placement in single non‐molar sites: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Atieh Momen A. , Shah Maanas , Hakam Abeer , AlAli Fawaghi , Aboushakra Ibrahim , Alsabeeha Nabeel H. M.
Published: June 2024

Objectives

The aim of this systematic review and meta‐analyses was to evaluate the outcomes of alveolar ridge preservation (ARP) following extraction of non‐molar teeth in comparison to early implant placement (EIP) in terms of clinical and radiographic changes, need for additional augmentation at the time of implant placement, patient‐reported outcomes, and implant failure rate.

Methods

Electronic databases were searched to identify randomized and non‐randomized studies that compared ARP to EIP. The risk of bias was assessed using the Cochrane Collaboration's Risk of Bias tool. Data were analyzed using a statistical software program.

Results

A total of 106 studies were identified, of which five studies with 198 non‐molar extraction sockets in 198 participants were included. Overall meta‐analysis showed significant differences in changes in midfacial mucosal margin (mean difference (MD) −0.09; 95% confidence interval (CI) −0.17 to −0.01; p = .03) and ridge width (MD −1.70; 95% CI −3.19 to −0.20; p = .03) in favor of ARP. The use of ARP was also associated with less need for additional augmentation at implant placement, but the difference was not statistically significant.

Conclusions

Within the limitation of this review, ARP following extraction of non‐molar teeth has short‐term positive effects on soft tissue contour, mucosal margin and thickness, and alveolar ridge width and height. It can also simplify future implant treatment by minimizing the need for additional augmentation.
Implications of pretreatment extramural venous invasion in rectal cancer patients: A population‐based study
Authors: Rutegård Martin , Matthiessen Peter , Glimelius Bengt , Blomqvist Lennart
Published: June 2024

Aim

Extramural venous invasion detected by MRI (mrEMVI) has in several expert centre studies been identified as an important prognostic factor in rectal cancer, and in guiding neoadjuvant therapy. However, population‐based evidence for mrEMVI as a predictor for recurrent disease is lacking.

Method

This was a multicentre retrospective study based on the Swedish Colorectal Cancer Registry. The study period encompassed patients operated with abdominal resection for rectal cancer 2017–2021, with follow‐up until January 2023. Patients diagnosed at hospitals with radiological registry data coverage <90% or with metastatic disease were excluded. Pretreatment mrEMVI constituted exposure, while recurrence‐free survival was the main outcome. Distant and local recurrence, and overall survival were secondary outcomes, and pretreatment and postoperative scenarios were explored using multivariable Cox regression with multiple imputation. Hazard ratios (HRs) with 95% confidence intervals (CIs) were reported.

Results

A total of 2737 patients from 13 hospitals were eligible for analysis. Pretreatment mrEMVI was reported in 14.5% of patients, while 71.9% had negative findings and 13.6% had missing data. In the pretreatment scenario, mrEMVI was an independent predictor for worse recurrence‐free survival with an adjusted HR of 1.64 (95% CI: 1.31–2.06). In the postoperative MDT setting, the influence of mrEMVI on recurrence‐free survival decreased with an adjusted HR of 1.27 (95% CI: 1.00–1.61).

Conclusion

mrEMVI at diagnosis is an independent predictor of recurrence‐free survival in an unselected population of rectal cancer patients undergoing abdominal resection.
Wavelet analysis of the foreign aid and economic growth nexus in Turkey
Authors: Adebayo Tomiwa S. , Kalmaz Demet B. , Awosusi Abraham A.
Published: June 2024

Turkey is one of the highest donors in the world, who also receives substantial amount of aids from various entities and countries. This paper aims to investigate the on going nexus between economic growth (EG) and foreign aid (AID) in Turkey; utilizing yearly data between 1960 and 2022 by employing wavelet analysis tools: namely the power spectrum, wavelet coherence, wavelet cohesion and Continuous Wavelet Transform (CWT) causality approach, which provides information of both long‐run and short‐run linkages for separate subperiods of time and frequencies. Our results reveal that; (a) the result of the power spectrum indicates that at different frequency and period, there is evidence of significant variation in EG and AID; (b) the outcome of the wavelet coherence confirms that there is comovement at varying frequencies and varying periods between EG and AID, with AID leading; (c) the outcome of the wavelet cohesion shows a positive/negative connection in the short and medium term, but a negative connection in the long term; (d) the result of the CWT causality approach confirmed the ‘feedback hypothesis’ at the aggregate level, in‐phase and out‐phase condition. As a result, policymakers should be more effective in supporting EG at high frequencies and only under the rule of the economic cycle.
Human‐modified habitats imperil ornamented dragonflies less than their non‐ornamented counterparts at local, regional, and continental scales
Authors: Moore Michael P. , Leith Noah T. , Fowler‐Finn Kasey D. , Medley Kim A.
Published: June 2024

Biologists have long wondered how sexual ornamentation influences a species' risk of extinction. Because the evolution of condition‐dependent ornamentation can reduce intersexual conflict and accelerate the fixation of advantageous alleles, some theory predicts that ornamented taxa can be buffered against extinction in novel and/or stressful environments. Nevertheless, evidence from the wild remains limited. Here, we show that ornamented dragonflies are less vulnerable to extinction across multiple spatial scales. Population‐occupancy models across the Western United States reveal that ornamented species have become more common relative to non‐ornamented species over >100 years. Phylogenetic analyses indicate that ornamented species exhibit lower continent‐wide extinction risk than non‐ornamented species. Finally, spatial analyses of local dragonfly assemblages suggest that ornamented species possess advantages over non‐ornamented taxa at living in habitats that have been converted to farms and cities. Together, these findings suggest that ornamented taxa are buffered against contemporary extinction at local, regional, and continental scales.
Cognitive deficits and cortical volume loss in COVID‐19‐related hyposmia
Authors: Gezegen Haşim , Ay Ulaş , Samancı Bedia , Kurt Elif , Yörük Sanem Sultan , Medetalibeyoğlu Alpay , Şen Cömert , Şahin Erdi , Barbüroğlu Mehmet , Doğan Faruk Uğur , Bilgiç Başar , Hanağası Haşmet , Gürvit Hakan
Published: June 2024

Background and purpose

Studies have found that up to 73% of COVID‐19 patients experience hyposmia. It is unclear if the loss of smell in COVID‐19 is due to damage to the peripheral or central mechanisms. This study aimed to explore the impacts of COVID‐19‐induced hyposmia on brain structure and cognitive functions.

Methods

The study included 36 hyposmic (h‐COV) and 21 normosmic (n‐COV) participants who had recovered from mild COVID‐19 infection, as well as 25 healthy controls (HCs). All participants underwent neurological examination, neuropsychiatric assessment and Sniffin’ Sticks tests. High‐resolution anatomical images were collected; olfactory bulb (OB) volume and cortical thickness were measured.

Results

Addenbrooke's Cognitive Examination—Revised total and language sub‐scores were slightly but significantly lower in the h‐COV group compared to the HC group (p = 0.04 and p = 0.037). The h‐COV group exhibited poorer performance in the Sniffin’ Sticks test terms of discrimination score, identification score and the composite score compared to the n‐COV and HC groups (p < 0.001, p = 0.001 and p = 0.002 respectively). A decrease in left and right OB volumes was observed in the h‐COV group compared to the n‐COV and HC groups (p = 0.003 and p = 0.006 respectively). The cortical thickness analysis revealed atrophy in the left lateral orbitofrontal cortex in the h‐COV group compared to HCs. A significant low positive correlation of varying degrees was detected between discrimination and identification scores and both OB and left orbital sulci.

Conclusion

Temporary or permanent hyposmia after COVID‐19 infection leads to atrophy in the OB and olfactory‐related cortical structures and subtle cognitive problems in the long term.
The Representativeness of Subslab Soil Gas Collection as Effected by Probe Construction and Sampling Methods
Authors: Zimmerman John H. , Williams Alan , Schumacher Brian , Lutes Chris , Levy Laurent , Buckley Gwen , Boyd Victoria , Holton Chase , McAlary Todd , Truesdale Robert
Published: June 2024

Subslab soil gas (SSSG) samples were collected as part of an investigation to evaluate vapor intrusion (VI) into a building. The June 2015 Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response (OSWER) VI Guide (U.S. Environmental Protection Agency [U.S. EPA] 2015) does not provide specific, detailed recommendations regarding how to collect SSSG samples. The data collected in this study will be used to provide input into future OSWER VI Guidance documents on SSSG sample collection. To this end, three different types of subslab sampling ports were constructed with various sampling techniques within a hexagon‐shaped grid in near proximity to each other. Conventional‐, Vapor Pin‐, and California‐style ports were established in duplicate for continual analysis by onsite gas chromatography‐electron capture detection (GC‐ECD). Triplicate ports were established to evaluate active and passive long‐term sampling methods to determine short range temporal differences. Active sampling methods included evacuated stainless‐steel canisters fitted with capillary flow controllers (Modified U.S. EPA Method TO‐15 [U.S. EPA 1999a]) and sorbent tubes collected using a syringe (Modified EPA TO‐17 [U.S. EPA 1999b]). The Passive sampling method used was sorbent tube samples collected following the EPA TO‐17 sampling method (Modified). This study did not identify any systematic differences in sample results between conventional, Vapor Pin, and CA‐style probes for used in SSSG sampling. The decisions for site management would probably be the same for data from any subslab port style, active or passive sampling techniques over durations less than 2 weeks.
Fourteen‐Day Tegoprazan–Amoxicillin Dual Therapy as the First‐Line Treatment of Helicobacter pylori Infection (SHARE2301): A Multicenter, Noninferiority, Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Kong Qingzhou , Mirza Iqtida Ahmed , Zhang Xiaoqian , Song Xiaohui , Li Xiaowei , Zhang Qiumei , Xu Lidong , Guo Yuting , Yu Yanan , Zuo Xiuli , Li Yanqing , Li Yueyue
Published: June 2024

Background

Potassium‐competitive acid blockers have demonstrated enormous potential in the eradication treatment of Helicobacter pylori infection, with tegoprazan being one of the representatives. The available data on the safety and efficacy of tegoprazan in dual therapy are limited.

Materials and Methods

The multicenter, noninferiority, randomized‐controlled trial was conducted from May 2023 to March 2024. Treatment‐naive subjects were randomly assigned (1:1) to enter either the tegoprazan–amoxicillin (TA) group (tegoprazan 50 mg twice daily and amoxicillin 750 mg four times daily) or the esomeprazole–amoxicillin (EA) group (esomeprazole 20 mg and amoxicillin 750 mg all four times daily), with a duration for 14 days. The primary outcome was eradication rate as determined by 13C‐urea breath test, including per‐protocol (PP) analysis and intention‐to‐treat (ITT) analysis. Secondary outcomes were adverse events and compliance.

Results

A total of 368 individuals were included in the randomization. The eradication rates in the EA group and the TA group were 84.2% and 85.8%, respectively, according to an ITT analysis (p = 0.77), and 88.5% and 88.2%, respectively, according to PP analysis (p = 1.00). The eradication rates for the TA group were not inferior to those of the EA group in both PP (p = 0.0023) and ITT analyses (p = 0.0009). There were no significant statistical differences in the incidence of adverse events and compliance between the two groups. The multivariate logistic regression analysis revealed that poor compliance increased the risk of eradication failure (p < 0.001).

Conclusions

Dual therapy containing tegoprazan is safe and effective to be considered as a clinical first‐line treatment option, but further optimization involving antimicrobial susceptibility testing and adjustments in dosage and frequency is warranted.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT05870683.
Novel mutation of transferrin receptor 2 causing hereditary hemochromatosis type 3 in a Japanese patient
Authors: Tamai Yasuyuki , Hosotani Masami , Shigefuku Ryuta , Tsuboi Junya , Iwasa Motoh , Okugawa Yoshinaga , Nakagawa Hayato
Published: June 2024

Hereditary hemochromatosis (HH) is recognized as a progressive iron‐storage disorder, and leading to severe organ impairments, including liver cirrhosis. Hereditary hemochromatosis type 3 arises from mutations in the transferrin receptor 2 (TFR2) gene. However, HH type 3 is rare in Asia, and information regarding genetic mutations and associated phenotypes remains limited. Here, we reported the case of a Japanese patient with HH type 3, with a novel homozygous mutation of the TFR2 gene. A 69‐year‐old woman presented to our hospital with hand joint pain and was referred due to liver impairment. Viral hepatitis and autoimmune liver diseases were ruled out. However, the transferrin saturation was 92.2%, and the serum ferritin level was 1611.8 ng/mL. Additionally, abdominal computed tomography showed diffuse increased density of the liver parenchyma. Abdominal magnetic resonance imaging also suggested iron deposition. There is no history of prior treatments involving blood transfusions or iron agents. Her parents were involved in a consanguineous marriage, prompting genetic testing. She had a homozygous novel mutation, c.1337G>A (p.G446E), in the TFR2 gene. Serum hepcidin‐25 level was decreased to 2.9 ng/mL. According to the American Society of Medical Genetics and Genomics guideline, the mutation was classified as likely pathogenic, leading to the diagnosis of HH type 3. Following phlebotomy, her arthritis resolved, and serum transaminase levels were normalized. This case marks the first demonstration of homozygous mutation, c.1337G>A (p.G446E), in the TFR2 gene in patients with HH type 3.
Amorphization‐controlled ion release of cobalt‐exchanged zeolite X
Authors: Azar Ayda Nemati Vesali , Duval Alexis , Langenhorst Falko , Wondraczek Lothar
Published: June 2024

Zeolitic carrier materials offer ion release and uptake functionality for a wide range of applications. The release kinetics are controlled by the mobility of the target species within the zeolite framework and at its surface. Here, we achieve control over the release dynamics and the quantity of released Co2+ ions from a faujasitic zeolite through mechanical amorphization of the zeolite framework. We identify a two‐step reaction mechanism in which ion release and reintegration compete on short and intermediate timescales. The competition between these two processes is governed by the degree of amorphization, with a timescale ranging from a few minutes to several days.
Akokisa River Pedagogies
Authors: Kalin Nadine M.
Published: June 2024

The loss of relational networks and life‐sustaining capacities of the Earth resulting from the Anthropocene/Capitalocene provoke ambiguous pedagogical experimenting with the limits of the known. The Akokisa River of Texas is more than its extractive use‐value based on humanist rationality. Water connector Ángel Faz approaches the River as more than a passive and endless resource to be extracted and manoeuvred for profit, but as an ecology of relations entangled with humans—the River is us; we are the River. As a boundary agitator, Faz speculates into unresolvable and reciprocal voids located in the excluded middles between humans and more‐than‐humans ripe with potential percepts and affects across River multiplicities. Such gesturing generates transcorporeal, multi‐linguistic, uncanny, trickster, and shimmering pedagogies bewildering the capacity to participate in the dynamic indeterminacy and interconnectedness of the River's ongoing becoming.
Development and usability of an EHR‐driven hypertension disparities dashboard in primary care: A qualitative study
Authors: Adediran Emmanuel , Owens Robert , Gardner Elena , Lockrey Alex , Carlson Emily , Forbes Danielle , Stuligross John , Ose Dominik
Published: June 2024

Hypertension disparities persist and remain high among racial and ethnic minority populations in the United States (US). Data‐driven approaches based on electronic health records (EHRs) in primary care are seen as a strong opportunity to address this situation. This qualitative study evaluated the development, sustainability, and usability of an EHR‐integrated hypertension disparities dashboard for health care professionals in primary care. Ten semi‐structured interviews, exploring the approach and sustainability, as well as eight usability interviews, using the think aloud protocol were conducted with quality improvement managers, data analysts, program managers, evaluators, and primary care providers. For the results, dashboard development steps include having clear goals, defining a target audience, compiling data, and building multidisciplinary teams. For sustainability, the dashboard can enhance understanding of the social determinants of health or to inform QI projects. In terms of dashboard usability, positive aspects consisted of the inclusion of summary pages, patient's detail pages, and hover‐over interface. Important design considerations were refining sorting functions, gender inclusivity, and increasing dashboard visibility. In sum, an EHR‐driven dashboard can be a novel tool for addressing hypertension disparities in primary care. It offers a platform where clinicians can identify patients for culturally tailored interventions. Factors such as physician time constraints, data definitions, comprehensive patient demographic information, end‐users, and future sustenance, should be considered before implementing a dashboard. Additional research is needed to identify practices for integrating a dashboard into clinical workflow for hypertension.
Attractant spray enhances nesting preference and reduces macroparasite infestation of Osmia cornuta
Authors: Eeraerts Maxime
Published: June 2024

Mason bees (Osmia. spp) can provide an alternative for crop pollination management in addition to the Western honeybees (Apis mellifera). Targeted evidence‐based guidelines can improve cost‐effective management of mason bees. Here, I test the effect of an attractant spray developed in the United States for improving the nesting preference for artificial trap nests of mason bees in Belgium. More specifically, this study investigates the effect of the attractant spray on the nesting preference and nesting performance of the European orchard bee (Osmia cornuta), as well as its effect on the infestation of nest‐associated macroparasites. The number of sealed nesting cavities was twice as high in the trap nests that were treated with the attractant spray. Nesting performance expressed as number of brood cells per cavity, successful cocoon formation, adult emergence, proportion of female bees in the offspring and the number of dead larvae was not different between the treated and the untreated nests. Overall infestation of macroparasites, and infestation of drosophilid flies in particular, were both twice as high in untreated nests. This study provides evidence that the attractant spray improves nesting preference and reduces macroparasite infestation in O. cornuta. The use of this attractant can provide growers and stakeholders with an effective management strategy to prevent infestation by macroparasites and promote efficient bee breeding.
Photobiomodulation in the infrared spectrum reverses the expansion of circulating natural killer cells and brain microglial activation in Sanfilippo mice
Authors: Lau A. A. , Jin K. , Beard H. , Windram T. , Xie K. , O’Brien J. A. , Neumann D. , King B. M. , Snel M. F. , Trim P. J. , Mitrofanis J. , Hemsley K. M. , Austin P. J.
Published: June 2024

Sanfilippo syndrome results from inherited mutations in genes encoding lysosomal enzymes that catabolise heparan sulfate (HS), leading to early childhood‐onset neurodegeneration. This study explores the therapeutic potential of photobiomodulation (PBM), which is neuroprotective and anti‐inflammatory in several neurodegenerative diseases; it is also safe and PBM devices are readily available. We investigated the effects of 10–14 days transcranial PBM at 670 nm (2 or 4 J/cm2/day) or 904 nm (4 J/cm2/day) in young (3 weeks) and older (15 weeks) Sanfilippo or mucopolysaccharidosis type IIIA (MPS IIIA) mice. Although we found no PBM‐induced changes in HS accumulation, astrocyte activation, CD206 (an anti‐inflammatory marker) and BDNF expression in the brains of Sanfilippo mice, there was a near‐normalisation of microglial activation in older MPS IIIA mice by 904 nm PBM, with decreased IBA1 expression and a return of their morphology towards a resting state. Immune cell immunophenotyping of peripheral blood with mass cytometry revealed increased pro‐inflammatory signalling through pSTAT1 and p‐p38 in NK and T cells in young but not older MPS IIIA mice (5 weeks of age), and expansion of NK, B and CD8+ T cells in older affected mice (17 weeks of age), highlighting the importance of innate and adaptive lymphocytes in Sanfilippo syndrome. Notably, 670 and 904 nm PBM both reversed the Sanfilippo‐induced increase in pSTAT1 and p‐p38 expression in multiple leukocyte populations in young mice, while 904 nm reversed the increase in NK cells in older mice. In conclusion, this is the first study to demonstrate the beneficial effects of PBM in Sanfilippo mice. The distinct reduction in microglial activation and NK cell pro‐inflammatory signalling and number suggests PBM may alleviate neuroinflammation and lymphocyte activation, encouraging further investigation of PBM as a standalone, or complementary therapy in Sanfilippo syndrome.

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Within‐ and across‐province agglomeration of LEED certifications in China
Authors: Ding Guanzu , Lin Wei , Wang Yanfei
Published: June 2024

This paper investigates the adoption patterns of Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) certification in China, analyzing data from 2010 to 2021. We find that builders' choices of certification levels are positively correlated within each province. However, for commercial buildings, builders differentiate from each other in the choice of certification levels. The study also identifies spatial spillovers of LEED certification across nearby provinces. We propose potential explanations for these findings and discuss their policy implications. The results suggest that the design of certification schemes should account for the strategic behavior of firms. Additionally, regional policies promoting green building certifications may have spillover effects, encouraging adoption in neighboring regions.
Association between oral frailty and Prevotella percentage in the oral microbiota of community‐dwelling older adults who participated in the CHEER Iwamizawa project, Japan
Authors: Kimura Chizuru , Miura Kazuhito , Watanabe Yutaka , Baba Haruhisa , Ozaki Kimiya , Hasebe Akira , Ayabe Tokiyoshi , Nakamura Kiminori , Nakaoka Shinji , Ogasawara Katsuhiko , Suzuki Teppei , Saito Hiroshi , Kimura Takashi , Tamakoshi Akiko , Yamazaki Yutaka
Published: June 2024

Background

Prevotella bacteria are associated with inherent diseases of the oral cavity, such as periodontal disease, and systemic diseases. Oral frailty (OF) has been associated with nursing necessity and death. However, the relationship between OF and oral microbiota has not been fully clarified.

Objective

This cross‐sectional study investigated the association between OF and Prevotella percentage in the oral microbiota of community‐dwelling older adults.

Methods

Oral bacteria species from saliva were identified in 208 community‐dwelling older individuals aged ≥60 years in Japan. The proportion of Prevotella in the oral microbiota was classified into three tertile groups, and its relationship with each test item for OF (number of remaining teeth, masticatory performance, oral diadochokinesis, tongue pressure, difficulties eating tough foods, difficulties swallowing tea or soup, number of applicable OF judgement items, and existence of OF) was examined using ordinal logistic regression analysis.

Results

The Prevotella proportions were classified into lower, middle and upper groups, comprising 70, 69 and 69 participants, respectively. The three groups showed a significant relationship between the number of remaining teeth (odds ratio [OR]: 0.946, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.915–0.977), masticatory performance (OR: 0.897, 95% CI: 0.844–0.953), number of applicable OF judgement items (OR: 1.477, 95% CI: 1.14–1.915), and existence of OF (OR: 4.194, 95% CI: 1.519–11.576).

Conclusion

The proportion of Prevotella in oral microbiota was high in individuals with OF. Among the older adults, the type of oral microbiota and systemic diseases may be related to the examination and management of oral function decline.
Advancing arteriovenous fistula needling: The role of physical exam and doppler ultrasound
Authors: Pinto Rui , Barros João , Ferreira Ricardo , Alves Pedro , Sousa Rui , Oliveira Liliana , Pereira Lénia , Correia Ana Luísa , Silva Ana Rita , Henriques Andreia , Magda Guerra  , Mata Fernando , Salgueiro Anabela , Fernandes Isabel , Alves Rui , Sousa Clemente
Published: June 2024

Background

The success of haemodialysis (HD) critically depends on the effective use of arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs). The precise needling technique is vital to minimise complications and ensure functional vascular access.

Objective

This study assesses the effectiveness of a nursing consultation protocol, which integrates physical examination (PE) with Doppler Ultrasound (DUS), in preparing patients for the first AVF needling.

Design/Participants

A cross‐sectional analysis at a Portuguese National Health Service Hospital engaged thirty new HD patients, four HD needling experienced nurses and one HD vascular access nurse. This study examines the accuracy of PE in assessing the matured AVF by the four nurses compared to a trained vascular access nurse encompassing systematic PE and DUS.

Measurements

The primary data incorporated AVF characteristics derived from PE (inspection, palpation, and auscultation) and DUS findings (vein depth, diameter, and blood flow). A secondary focus was evaluating the change in nurses' perceived needling complexity following the nursing consultation.

Results

The nursing consultation significantly enhanced the identification of crucial AVF features, such as accessory veins (p = 0.002), and improved the accuracy of AVF morphology assessments. This led to identifying longer needling tracks (p = 0.031) and a higher number of safe needling points (p = 0.016). Nurses reported a notable reduction in perceived complexity and potential adverse events following this method (p = 0.027).

Conclusions

Integrating structured PE with DUS in a nursing consultation framework significantly improves the preparation for AVF needling. This approach enhances the efficiency and safety of AVF needling and boosts nurse confidence and patient care in HD settings.
Weather conditions at different spatial and temporal scales influence avian post‐breeding migration patterns on route
Authors: Benjumea R. , Astrain C. , Istúriz A. , Oria P. , Ibarrola I. , del Mar Delgado M.
Published: June 2024

Migration plays a central role in many ecological and evolutionary processes. Global patterns of climatic variation are having a profound influence upon animal migration patterns. Even though regular counts of bird migrations at bottleneck sites can certainly offer insights into how natural populations of different species at different scales are responding to changes in weather conditions, they have not yet been widely used. By analysing a time series of regular counts, collected during autumn, of 126 species migrating during the daytime through one of the most important migratory bottlenecks in Western Europe, we found that an increase in temperature at the regional scale, as well as a decrease in precipitation level during the breeding period, may result not only in a decrease in the migration rate during autumn but also in a delay in the timing of fall migration. Furthermore, adverse weather conditions at the local scale interrupted bird migration through the bottleneck until favourable weather conditions returned. Importantly, temporal variation in the number of migratory birds followed a nonlinear pattern, something which might be partially due to the idiosyncratic responses of migratory species with different life‐history characteristics to changes in weather conditions. Our results highlight that migration is a nonlinear, multiscale and multi‐faceted process, suggesting that it will be difficult to predict the responses of idiosyncratic migratory species to the unpredictable effects of climate change.
When words are your scalpel, what and how information is exchanged may be differently salient to assessors
Authors: Li Melissa , Kurahashi Allison M. , Kawaguchi Sarah , Siemens Isaac , Sirianni Giovanna , Myers Jeff
Published: June 2024

Purpose

Variable assessments of learner performances can occur when different assessors determine different elements to be differently important or salient. How assessors determine the importance of performance elements has historically been thought to occur idiosyncratically and thus be amenable to assessor training interventions. More recently, a main source of variation found among assessors was two underlying factors that were differently emphasised: medical expertise and interpersonal skills. This gave legitimacy to the theory that different interpretations of the same performance may represent multiple truths. A faculty development activity introducing assessors to entrustable professional activities in which they estimated a learner's level of readiness for entrustment provided an opportunity to qualitatively explore assessor variation in the context of an interaction and in a setting in which interpersonal skills are highly valued.

Methods

Using a constructivist grounded theory approach, we explored variation in assessment processes among a group of palliative medicine assessors who completed a simulated direct observation and assessment of the same learner interaction.

Results

Despite identifying similar learner strengths and areas for improvement, the estimated level of readiness for entrustment varied substantially among assessors. Those who estimated the learner as not yet ready for entrustment seemed to prioritise what information was exchanged and viewed missed information as performance gaps. Those who estimated the learner as ready for entrustment seemed to prioritise how information was exchanged and viewed the same missed information as personal style differences or appropriate clinical judgement. When presented with a summary, assessors expressed surprise and concern about the variation.

Conclusion

A main source of variation among our assessors was the differential salience of performance elements that align with medical expertise and interpersonal skills. These data support the theory that when assessing an interaction, differential salience for these two factors may be an important and perhaps inevitable source of assessor variation.
Lateral kangaroo position for thermal stability of extremely preterm: Non‐inferiority randomized controlled trial
Authors: Jimenez‐Fernández Lucía , Serrano‐Gutierrez Ana , Martínez‐Pérez Patricia , Melchor‐Muñoz Patricia , Fernández‐Carvajal Amalia , Campos‐Martínez Belén , Piris‐Borregas Salvador , Pont‐Vilalta María , Collados‐Gómez Laura
Published: June 2024

Background

Kangaroo care (KC) is an evidence‐based best practice that can prevent major health complications in preterm infants. However, there is a lack of evidence on the feasibility and safety of placing extremely preterm infants under 28 weeks gestational age in KC position.

Aim

To compare thermal stability 60 min after the first KC session in the lateral versus prone position in extremely preterm infants under 28 weeks gestational age.

Study Design

This is a single‐centre, randomized, non‐inferiority, parallel clinical trial. The patients were extremely preterm infants during their first 5 days of life. Infants in the intervention group received KC in the lateral position while those in the control group received KC in the prone position. All infants receiving KC were inside their polyethylene bags but maintained skin‐to‐skin contact. The primary outcome was the axillary temperature of the infants, and the secondary outcome was the development of intraventricular haemorrhage.

Results

Seventy infants were randomized (35 per group). The mean gestational age was 26 +1(1+1) in both groups. In the first KC session, the infant temperature at 60 minutes was 36.79°C (0.43) in lateral KC position, and 36.78°C (0.38) in prone KC position (p = .022). In lateral KC position, 7.69% (2) of the children who, according to the cranial ultrasound performed before the first session, had no haemorrhage presented with intraventricular haemorrhage after the first session. In prone KC position, new haemorrhages appeared after the first session in 29.17% (7) (p = .08).

Conclusions

The lateral KC position is an alternative to the conventional prone KC position and maintains normothermia in infants under 28 weeks gestational age.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

Extremely preterm infants are candidates for KC. Lateral KC position is an evidence‐based best practice that can be applied to preterm infants under 28 weeks GA. This evidence is particularly useful in performing umbilical catheterization on these patients.
RcOST1L phosphorylates RcPIF4 for proteasomal degradation to promote flowering in rose
Authors: Sun Jingjing , Liu Hongchi , Wang Weinan , Fan Chunguo , Yuan Guozhen , Zhou Rui , Lu Jun , Liu Jinyi , Wang Changquan
Published: June 2024

Flowering is a vital agronomic trait that determines the economic value of most ornamental plants. The flowering time of rose (Rosa spp.) is photoperiod insensitive and is thought to be tightly controlled by light intensity, although the detailed molecular mechanism remains unclear.

Here, we showed that rose plants flower later under low‐light (LL) intensity than under high‐light (HL) intensity, which is mainly related to the stability of PHYTOCHROME‐INTERACTING FACTORs (RcPIFs) mediated by OPEN STOMATA 1‐Like (RcOST1L) under different light intensity regimes.

We determined that HL conditions trigger the rapid phosphorylation of RcPIFs before their degradation. A yeast two‐hybrid screen identified the kinase RcOST1L as interacting with RcPIF4. Moreover, RcOST1L positively regulated rose flowering and directly phosphorylated RcPIF4 on serine 198 to promote its degradation under HL conditions. Additionally, phytochrome B (RcphyB) enhanced RcOST1L‐mediated phosphorylation of RcPIF4 via interacting with the active phyB‐binding motif. RcphyB was activated upon HL and recruited RcOST1L to facilitate its nuclear accumulation, in turn leading to decreased stability of RcPIF4 and flowering acceleration.

Our findings illustrate how RcPIF abundance safeguards proper rose flowering under different light intensities, thus uncovering the essential role of RcOST1L in the RcphyB–RcPIF4 module in flowering.
A systematic review and qualitative synthesis of weight management interventions for people with spinal cord injury
Authors: Madigan Claire D. , King James A. , Taylor Carolyn , Hoekstra Sven P. , Graham Heneritta E. , Kirk Natasha , Fenton Jordan M. , Goosey‐Tolfrey Vicky L.
Published: June 2024

People with spinal cord injury (SCI) are at greater risk of developing obesity and related co‐morbidities than those without SCI. The objectives of this systematic review were to examine the effectiveness of weight management interventions for people with SCI and to synthesize the experiences of people involved with SCI weight management (e.g., SCI healthcare professionals and caregivers). Five databases were searched (up to July 31, 2023) and 5,491 potentially eligible articles were identified. Following screening, 22 articles were included, comprising 562 adults. There was considerable heterogeneity in study design and weight loss interventions included behavioral nutritional and exercise education sessions, recalling food diaries, exercise interventions, and pharmaceuticals. The mean percentage change of the pooled body mass data equated to −4.0 ± 2.3%, with a range from −0.5 to −7.6%. In addition, 38% of the individuals with SCI who completed a weight loss intervention (N = 262) had a ≥5% reduction in body weight. Collectively, although on average the included interventions led to moderate weight loss, the finding that just over a third of individuals achieved clinically meaningful 5% weight loss suggests that available interventions for this population may need to be improved.
Closed loop stimulation in left bundle branch area pacing
Authors: Dell'Era Gabriele , Ghiglieno Chiara , De Vecchi Federica , Santagostino Matteo , Annunziata Lucia , Baldassarre Irene , Giacopelli Daniele , Patti Giuseppe
Published: June 2024

Introduction

Closed Loop Stimulation (CLS) is a rate‐responsive algorithm that adjusts heart rate (HR) based on changes in intracardiac impedance measured from the right ventricle lead. However, the use of CLS in conduction system pacing has not been investigated. In this retrospective study, we aimed to assess whether CLS with left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) can generate an appropriate distribution of HR in daily life.

Methods and Results

Our study included 24 patients with CLS pacing and chronotropic incompetence, comparing them with 19 patients receiving DDD pacing, all with LBBAP. Cumulative HR distribution charts were generated using data from a single device interrogation with a minimum follow‐up period of 30 days. In DDD‐CLS mode, there was a higher percentage of atrial pacing compared to DDD mode (median 58% [interquartile range 29%‐83%] vs. 13% [10%‐26%], p = .001), and CLS‐paced beats were present across all frequency bins. The distribution of beats between the groups was similar (p = .643), resulting in comparable mean HR (72 bpm [70‐77] vs. 73 bpm [65‐75], p = .615).

Conclusions

In the context of LBBAP, CLS effectively modulates pacing rates over a wide frequency range. This lead position does not adversely affect the rate‐responsive performance of the algorithm.
Social Determinants of Health and Outcomes After Pediatric Ventricular Assist Device Implantation
Authors: West Caroline L. , Zhao Hong , Cantor Ryan , Sood Vikram , Lal Ashwin K. , Beaty Claude , Kirklin James K. , Peng David M.
Published: June 2024

Background

Limited research exists on the influence of social determinants of health (SDOH) on outcomes in pediatric patients with advanced heart failure receiving mechanical circulatory support.

Methods

Linkage of the Pediatric Interagency Registry for Mechanical Circulatory Support (Pedimacs) and Society of Thoracic Surgeon's Congenital Heart Surgery Database (STS‐CHSD) identified pediatric patients who underwent ventricular assist device (VAD) implantation from 2012 to 2022 with available residential zip codes. Utilizing the available zip codes, each patient was assigned a Childhood Opportunity Index (COI) score. Level of childhood opportunity, race, and insurance type were used as proxies for SDOH. Major outcomes included death, transplant, alive with device, and recovery. Secondary outcomes were adverse events. Statistical analyses were performed using the Kaplan–Meier survival, competing risk analyses, and multivariable Cox proportional hazards model.

Results

Three hundred seventeen patients were included in the study. Childhood opportunity level and insurance status did not significantly impact morbidity or mortality after VAD implantation. White race was associated with reduced 1‐year survival (71% in White vs. 87% in non‐White patients, p = 0.05) and increased risk of pump thrombosis (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Childhood opportunity level and insurance status were not linked to morbidity and mortality in pediatric patients after VAD implantation. Notably, White race was associated with higher mortality rates. The study underscores the importance of considering SDOH in evaluating advanced therapies for pediatric heart failure and emphasizes the need for accurate socioeconomic data collection in future studies and national registries.
Clinical Course of Nonresponders With Recurrent Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis After Pediatric Kidney Transplantation: A Retrospective Multicenter Study
Authors: Ban Hideki , Miura Kenichiro , Ando Taro , Shirai Yoko , Kaneko Naoto , Ishizuka Kiyonobu , Hotta Kiyohiko , Hattori Motoshi
Published: June 2024

Background

Primary focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) frequently recurs after kidney transplantation and is associated with poor graft survival. Patients who do not achieve remission (nonresponders) have an especially poor graft survival. However, the characteristics that may affect graft survival in nonresponders are unknown. This study aimed to determine the clinical characteristics associated with graft survival in nonresponders.

Methods

We retrospectively collected the clinical records of patients with FSGS and an age at onset <16 years who experienced posttransplant recurrence of FSGS at six hospitals in Japan from 1993 to 2018.

Results

Eight nonresponders with recurrent FSGS were enrolled in this study. The median time to recurrence after kidney transplantation was 1 day (interquartile range, 1–2 days). All patients received therapeutic plasma exchange and methylprednisolone pulse therapy. Rituximab was used as an add‐on therapy in three patients. Five patients lost their graft within 2 years after kidney transplantation (rapid group). In contrast, three patients had much longer graft survival (nonrapid group). We compared the clinical characteristics of the rapid and nonrapid groups. Proteinuria tended to be lower in the nonrapid group at the third and subsequent months of therapy. The rapid group had persistent nephrotic syndrome. The rate of reduction in proteinuria was lower in the rapid group than in the nonrapid group.

Conclusions

Our study suggests that persistent nephrotic syndrome and a low rate of reduction in proteinuria may predict rapid progression to graft failure in nonresponders.
Overcoming the effects of fluid shear stress in ovarian cancer cell lines: Doxorubicin alone or photodynamic priming to target platinum resistance
Authors: Overchuk Marta , Rickard Brittany P. , Tulino Justin , Tan Xianming , Ligler Frances S. , Huang Huang‐Chiao , Rizvi Imran
Published: June 2024

Resistance to platinum‐based chemotherapies remains a significant challenge in advanced‐stage high‐grade serous ovarian carcinoma, and patients with malignant ascites face the poorest outcomes. It is, therefore, important to understand the effects of ascites, including the associated fluid shear stress (FSS), on phenotypic changes and therapy response, specifically FSS‐induced chemotherapy resistance and the underlying mechanisms in ovarian cancer. This study investigated the effects of FSS on response to cisplatin, a platinum‐based chemotherapy, and doxorubicin, an anthracycline, both of which are commonly used to manage advanced‐stage ovarian cancer. Consistent with prior research, OVCAR‐3 and Caov‐3 cells cultivated under FSS demonstrated significant resistance to cisplatin. Examination of the role of mitochondria revealed an increase in mitochondrial DNA copy number and intracellular ATP content in cultures grown under FSS, suggesting that changes in mitochondria number and metabolic activity may contribute to platinum resistance. Interestingly, no resistance to doxorubicin was observed under FSS, the first such observation of a lack of resistance under these conditions. Finally, this study demonstrated the potential of photodynamic priming using benzoporphyrin derivative, a clinically approved photosensitizer that localizes in part to mitochondria and endoplasmic reticula, to enhance the efficacy of cisplatin, but not doxorubicin, thereby overcoming FSS‐induced platinum resistance.