bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Contact matters: determining the effects of political orientations on satisfaction with the police by contact with the police
Authors: Ferdik Frank , Froggé George , Cooney Mikaela , Smith Hayden P.
Published: December 2024

Purpose

Public willingness to obey the law is partially determined by their satisfaction levels with police job performance. Although numerous studies have researched determinants of citizen satisfaction with the police, to date, none have examined whether political orientations, measured according to voting preferences, share any association with this outcome. No study, moreover, has analyzed if the effects of political orientations vary by contact with law enforcement.

Design/methodology/approach

Questionnaire data were collected from a convenience sample of university students to determine whether the effects of political orientations on satisfaction with law enforcement varied by contact with the police.

Findings

Among the total sample, as well as those who had no prior contact with the police, liberal respondents expressed less satisfaction with law enforcers when compared to conservatives. Among those who were either contacted by the police, or who initiated contact, political orientations had no effect on satisfaction. What was significant across all models though was procedural justice.

Research limitations

Generalization attempts are hindered considering the non-probability nature of the sample, while causality can also not be confirmed since data are cross-sectional.

Practical implications

Police officers must behave in procedurally fair manners when interacting with citizens and engage in community outreach initiatives in order to improve their image across society.

Originality/value

Findings offer insight into the conditions under which voting preferences can shape evaluations of the police.
Exploration of viscosity dependent on temperature and Newtonian heating above steady hydromagnetic convective flow in a percolating environment: Soret, Dufour consequences
Authors: Omowaye Adeola John , Aleem Taoqer Ayobami , Adesina Adedayo Naheem , Ayinde Samuel Olukayode
Published: December 2024

Purpose

The purpose of this research is to investigate the behavior of continuous hydromagnetic convective fluid within a porous medium. In this study, all fluid properties are assumed to remain constant, except for viscosity, which varies inversely with temperature. Additionally, the fluid experiences Newtonian heating, and the effects of the Dufour and Soret phenomena are considered. The study also examines how controlling constants affect the velocity, temperature and concentration profiles.

Design/methodology/approach

The model equations are transformed to ordinary differential equations adopting similarity transformations. The resulting coupled nonlinear differential equations are then solved numerically using the shooting method combined with the fourth order Runge-Kutta (RK-4) technique. The effects of varying parameters on the flow are presented through graphs and tables.

Findings

The consequences of supervising constants on the flow are encapsulated in charts. The findings are that the Biot number is crucial in determining the temperature distribution within a solid during transient heat transfer; a reduction in the velocity chart is experienced as the size of suction grows; the temperature distribution over the upright heated plate escalates dramatically as Dufour(Du) shot up; and a rise in fluid velocity as the Soret parameter increases. The current results are annotated in sketches for better understanding. Findings are authenticated in contrast with published works. Finally, viscosity dependent on temperature and Newtonian heating are crucial in determining the flow characteristics, heat transfer efficiency, pressure drop, flow stability and overall performance of fluid systems. Understanding and accounting for these variations are essential for the optimal design and operation of engineering applications involving fluids.

Originality/value

The peculiarity of the research is perusal of exploration of viscosity dependent on temperature and Newtonian heating above steady hydromagnetic convective flow in a percolating environment: Soret, Dufour consequences. To the best of authors’ understanding, problem like this has not been considered. The findings in this work will give a useful information to scientists and engineers.
The Dairy Academy 2024 – A ‘European Excellence in Dairy Learning’ (AEDIL Dairy CoVE) event
Authors: Raak Norbert
Published: December 2024

The Dairy Academy 2024, an event held as a part of the EU Erasmus+ project ‘European Excellence in Dairy Learning’ (AEDIL Dairy CoVE), gathered 40 early career researchers with different backgrounds and from different career levels at the University of Copenhagen, Denmark on 24–28 June 2024. In the mornings, the participants engaged in interactive training sessions under the theme ‘Future Dairy Processing Challenges’, while in the afternoons, the online Dairy Science and Technology Symposium could be joined by everyone interested worldwide. On several evenings, social and networking events were offered to the participants. The event received highly positive feedback from the attendees and will be repeated with a new programme at the Agricultural University of Athens, Greece in 2025. The aim of this report is to provide a detailed summary of the summer school and symposium contents as well as an excerpt of the course evaluation to promote the upcoming Dairy Academies and inspire and guide future learning events and conferences.
Exploration of In Situ Extraction for Enhanced Triterpenoid Production by Saccharomyces cerevisiae
Authors: Dianat Mariam , Straaten Sarah , Maritato Aldo , Wibberg Daniel , Busche Tobias , Blank Lars M. , Ebert Birgitta E.
Published: December 2024

Plant‐derived triterpenoids are in high demand due to their valuable applications in cosmetic, nutraceutical, and pharmaceutical industries. To meet this demand, microbial production of triterpenoids is being developed for large‐scale production. However, a prominent limitation of microbial synthesis is the intracellular accumulation, requiring cell disruption during downstream processing. Destroying the whole‐cell catalyst drives up production costs and limits productivity and product yield per cell. Here, in situ product extraction of triterpenoids into a second organic phase was researched to address this limitation. An organic solvent screening identified water‐immiscible isopropyl myristate as a suitable in situ extractant, enabling extraction of up to 90% of total triterpenoids from engineered Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Combining isopropyl myristate and β‐cyclodextrins improved extraction efficiency. In a first configuration, repeated batch fermentation with sequential product extraction and cell recycling resulted in 1.8 times higher production than a reference fermentation without in situ product extraction. In the second configuration, yeast cells were in contact with the second organic phase throughout a fed‐batch fermentation to continuously extract triterpenoids. This resulted in 90% product extraction and an extended production phase. Further improvement of triterpenoid production was not achieved due to microbial host limitations uncovered through omics analyses.
Cost‐effectiveness of first‐line systemic therapies for unresectable hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Lian Dai , Gan Yuling , Xiao Dunming , Xuan Dennis , Liu Shimeng , Wei Yan
Published: December 2024

Aims

To examine the cost‐effectiveness of first‐line systemic therapies recommended by the National Comprehensive Cancer Network guidelines for Unresectable Hepatocellular Carcinoma (uHCC) from the US social and payer's perspective.

Methods

A cost‐effectiveness analysis was conducted using a three‐state partitioned survival model to assess the cost‐effectiveness of atezolizumab plus bevacizumab, tremelimumab plus durvalumab, durvalumab, lenvatinib and sorafenib as first‐line treatments for uHCC. Clinical efficacy was derived from a published network meta‐analysis. Cost and utility inputs were collected from literature. Main outcomes measured were quality‐adjusted life year (QALY), and incremental cost‐effectiveness ratio (ICER). Univariate and probabilistic sensitivity analyses, as well as scenario analyses were performed.

Results

Over a 10‐year time horizon, atezolizumab plus bevacizumab yielded the highest QALYs. Compared to sorafenib, atezolizumab plus bevacizumab, tremelimumab plus durvalumab and lenvatinib had ICERs of $196 704/QALY, $800 755/QALY and $2 032 756/QALY, respectively. Sorafenib was dominated by durvalumab due to lower QALYs and higher costs. At a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $150 000/QALY, probabilistic sensitivity analysis revealed that durvalumab had a 99.96% probability of providing the highest net monetary benefit.

Conclusions

At a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $150 000/QALY, durvalumab is likely the most cost‐effective first‐line systemic therapy for uHCC compared to sorafenib. Although atezolizumab plus bevacizumab yielded the highest QALYs, their ICERs exceeded the commonly accepted cost‐effectiveness threshold ($150 000$ per QALY gained). These findings can inform clinical decision‐making, resource allocation and future research priorities in managing uHCC.
Re‐examining cognitive load measures in real‐world learning: Evidence from both subjective and neurophysiological data
Authors: Liu Xiaobo , Zhang Yu
Published: December 2024

Background

Cognitive load theory is widely used in educational research and instructional design, which relies heavily on conceptual constructs and measurement instruments of cognitive load. Due to its implicit nature, cognitive load is usually measured by other related instruments, such as commonly‐used self‐report scales of mental effort or task difficulty. However, these concepts are different in nature, as they emphasize distinct perspectives on cognitive processing. In addition, real‐world learning is more complex than simplified experimental conditions. Simply assuming that these variables will change in a monotonic way with workload may be misleading.

Aims

This study aims to examine whether these measures are consistent with each other, and to discover the neurophysiological basis underlying the potential discrepancy.

Sample

The study collected data in both a real‐world (Study 1, 22 high school students in 13 math classes) and a laboratory setting (Study 2, 30 students in 6 lab‐based math tasks).

Methods

In addition to self‐report measures, the study also collected multimodal neurophysiological data, such as electroencephalography (EEG), electrodermal activity (EDA), and photoplethysmography (PPG).

Results

The results show that although the difficulty level can be perceived with difficulty ratings, it does not lead to the corresponding level of mental effort. Only within an appropriate level of load, can we observe a positive correlation between self‐report difficulty and mental effort. Neurophysiological evidence also supports the conceptual discrepancies and group differences, indicating distinct neurophysiological mechanisms underlying these ‘similar’ constructs.

Conclusions

These findings also emphasize the need for combining these concepts to better evaluate students' cognitive load.
A Variable Clinical Presentation of Hemoglobin City of Hope
Authors: Brik Simon Dafna , Filon Dvora , Meiner Vardiella , Krasnov Tanya , Noy‐Lotan Sharon , Dgany Orly , Gilad Oded , Goldberg Tracie , Izraeli Shai , Yacobovich Joanne , Tamary Hannah , Steinberg‐Shemer Orna
Published: December 2024

Hemoglobin City of Hope (Hb‐COH), NC_000011.9(NM_000518.5):c.208G > A; NP_000509.1:p.(Gly70Ser), has rarely been described. The presentation ranges from asymptomatic heterozygosity to significant anemia in patients carrying an additional pathogenic variant in β‐globin. To elucidate the clinical spectrum of Hb‐COH, we analyzed 31 individuals carrying the variant, including, for the first time, homozygous individuals. Seven patients who were compound heterozygous for Hb‐COH and an additional variant in β‐globin, presented with mild‐to‐severe microcytic anemia and elevated hemoglobin‐A2. Three (43%) of these also had elevated fetal hemoglobin, but none required blood transfusions. Seven patients coinherited Hb‐COH with an ‐α3.7‐deletion (NG_000006.1:g.34247_38050del), their presentation ranged from mild microcytic anemia to normal blood counts. Three homozygous and 14 heterozygous individuals for Hb‐COH had normal blood counts. Most Hb‐COH alleles whose origin was traceable were from Ashkenazi Jews (70.4%). To conclude, while isolated Hb‐COH appears asymptomatic even in the homozygous state, it may cause significant anemia when coinherited with an additional pathogenic variant in β‐globin. Understanding the full impact of Hb‐COH is crucial for optimal patient management and for genetic counseling.
Musical Experience and Speech Processing: The Case of Whistled Words
Authors: Tran Ngoc Anaïs , Meyer Julien , Meunier Fanny
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we explore the effect of musical expertise on whistled word perception by naive listeners. In whistled words of nontonal languages, vowels are transposed to relatively stable pitches, while consonants are translated into pitch movements or interruptions. Previous behavioral studies have demonstrated that naive listeners can categorize isolated consonants, vowels, and words well over chance. Here, we take an interest in the effect of musical experience on words while focusing on specific phonemes within the context of the word. We consider the role of phoneme position and type and compare the way in which these whistled consonants and vowels contribute to word recognition. Musical experience shows a significant and increasing advantage according to the musical level achieved, which, when further specified according to vowels and consonants, shows stronger advantages for vowels over consonants for all participants with musical experience, and advantages for high‐level musicians over nonmusicians for both consonants and vowels. By specifying high‐level musician skill according to one's musical instrument expertise (piano, violin, flute, or singing), and comparing these instrument groups to expert users of whistled speech, we observe instrument‐specific profiles in the answer patterns. The differentiation of such profiles underlines a resounding advantage for expert whistlers, as well as the role of instrument specificity when considering skills transferred from music to speech. These profiles also highlight differences in phoneme correspondence rates due to the context of the word, especially impacting “acute” consonants (/s/ and /t/), and highlighting the robustness of /i/ and /o/.
Investigating Aging‐Related Endometrial Dysfunction Using Endometrial Organoids
Authors: Lu Minghui , Han Yanli , Zhang Yu , Yu Ruijie , Su Yining , Chen Xueyao , Liu Boyang , Li Tao , Zhao Rusong , Zhao Han
Published: December 2024

Ageing of the endometrium is a critical factor that affects reproductive health, yet its intricate mechanisms remain poorly explored. In this study, we performed transcriptome profiling and experimental verification of endometrium and endometrial organoids from young and advanced age females, to elucidate the underlying mechanisms and to explore novel treatment strategies for endometrial ageing. First, we found that age‐associated decline in endometrial functions including fibrosis and diminished receptivity, already exists in reproductive age. Subsequently, based on RNA‐seq analysis, we identified several changes in molecular processes affected by age, including fibrosis, imbalanced inflammatory status including Th1 bias in secretory phase, cellular senescence and abnormal signalling transduction in key pathways, with all processes been further validated by molecular experiments. Finally, we uncovered for the first time that PI3K‐AKT‐FOXO1 signalling pathway is overactivated in ageing endometrium and is closely correlated with fibrosis and impaired receptivity characteristics of ageing endometrium. Blocking or activation of PI3K by LY294002 or 740Y‐P could attenuate the effect of ageing or accelerate dysfunction of endometrial organoids. This discovery is expected to bring new breakthroughs for understanding the pathophysiological processes associated with endometrial ageing, as well as treatment strategies to improve reproductive outcomes in women of advanced reproductive age.
Precision of Estimated Growth Parameters of Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus albacares) From Length‐Frequency Data Estimated by Bootstrapping
Authors: Taufani Wiwiet Teguh , Matsuishi Takashi Fritz
Published: December 2024

Over 60% of the world's fish stocks suffer from limited data, which hampers effective fisheries management. Researchers have developed stock assessment methods for data‐limited fisheries using length‐frequency data, but reliability was questionable and not well researched. We evaluated the precision of the widely used length‐based method ELEFAN using 24 months of length‐frequency data from 14,190 individual yellowfin tuna and sequential and interval data fractions. Using bootstrapping (1000 times) and data reduction, growth parameters and precision , , and Φ′ were estimated. The CVs of , , and Φ′ were 2.55%, 23.04%, and 2.35%, respectively. From the result of data reduction, at least once in 1 or 2 months and 12 times measurements with 500 data per measurement on average is recommended for achieving high precision with CV of Φ′ < 3%.
Consensus on the Structure and Content of Birth Plans: A Modified Delphi Study
Authors: Vendittelli Françoise , Adalid Lucie , Peyronnet Violaine , Guillaume Sophie , Piquée Nathalie , Viard‐Cretat Aurore , Crenn‐Hébert Catherine , Rivière Olivier , Guiguet‐Auclair Candy ,   Study Group
Published: December 2024

Background

Few pregnant women in France wrote birth plans as in many other countries. The literature stresses the heterogeneity of birth plan content, which limits the utility of assessing the effects of birth plans on women's experience of childbirth. This study aimed to obtain a French national consensus on the structure and content of birth plans.

Methods

A multidisciplinary steering committee was established. An electronic modified Delphi study was conducted to develop a structure and content for birth plans between November 2022 and June 2023. During three Delphi consensus rounds, panellists, including perinatal health care professionals and user representatives, were asked to rate individually and independently each proposed section and subsection formulation of the birth plan for its appropriateness. An external board assessed the understandability of the final birth plan's preamble and content.

Results

The steering committee proposed 103 formulations corresponding to items to be covered in a birth plan, categorized into 8 sections and 30 subsections, for evaluation in the Delphi rounds. The first round was completed by 42 panellists (mainly midwives), the second by 39, and the third by 36. Finally, the steering committee approved the final components of the structured birth plan in 8 sections and 19 subsections, after its reviewing by the 21 members of the external board.

Conclusion

A French national Delphi process, after three rounds and validation by an external board, made it possible to reach a consensus on the structure and content of a birth plan in 8 sections and 19 subsections.

Patient or Public Contribution

User representatives were included as experts in the Delphi rounds, and in the external board to approve the final version of the structured birth plan.
The drivers of deskilling: Comparing highly skilled Ukrainian refugee women in Austria and Poland
Authors: Aigner Petra , Bešić Almina , Kubiciel‐Lodzińska Sabina , Bacher Johann , Maj Jolanta , Prischl Clara
Published: December 2024

The arrival of Ukrainian refugees in the European Union (EU) has reignited debates about the accessibility of labour markets, deskilling and underemployment. The Ukrainian case is especially significant because most refugees are highly skilled women and the implementation of the EU's temporary protection directive has provided them with immediate access to the EU's labour market. This paper examines the labour market access and deskilling of highly skilled Ukrainian women in the European Union. We compare two regions, Opole Voivodeship (Poland) and Upper Austria. Utilising a quantitative survey, we offer a comparative exploration of the drivers behind deskilling. This paper contributes to the growing literature on labour market access for female refugees, corroborating existing literature on ‘double’ and ‘triple disadvantage’ scenarios by highlighting deskilling processes and underemployment mechanisms in the context of instant labour market access. Moreover, it compares the diverse drivers of deskilling, ‘gender blindness’ in policy responses and the influence policymaking has on the allocation of migrant and refugee labour into sectors with shortages.
Comparative Effectiveness of Cell‐Based Versus Egg‐Based Influenza Vaccines in Prevention of Influenza Hospitalization During the 2022–2023 Season Among Adults 18–64 Years
Authors: Rayens Emily , Ku Jennifer H. , Sy Lina S. , Qian Lei , Ackerson Bradley K. , Luo Yi , Tubert Julia E. , Lee Gina S. , Modha Punam P. , Park Yoonyoung , Sun Tianyu , Anderson Evan J. , Tseng Hung Fu
Published: December 2024

This retrospective cohort study evaluated the comparative vaccine effectiveness (cVE) of licensed standard‐dose cell‐based versus egg‐based influenza vaccines in preventing influenza hospitalization among adults 18–64 years during the 2022–2023 season. The cohort included eligible Kaiser Permanente Southern California members who received ≥ 1 dose of influenza vaccine (n = 848,334). The adjusted cVE against influenza hospitalization was −10.1% (95% CI: −49.8%, 37.8%) in the 18‐ to 49‐year‐old cohort. In the 50‐ to 64‐year‐old cohort, the adjusted cVE was 14.9% (−33.8%, 52.1%). Cell‐based and egg‐based influenza vaccines conferred comparable protection against influenza hospitalization in adults 18–64 years of age in the 2022–2023 season.
Revisiting negative pressure wound therapy from a mechanobiological perspective supported by clinical and pathological data
Authors: Gefen Amit , Russo Serena , Ciliberti Marino
Published: December 2024

Negative pressure wound therapy is used often in the management of surgical incisions, chronic wounds and subacute lesions, and there are numerous publications discussing its clinical application and outcomes. However, whilst clinical use and associated literature have expanded since these systems became commercially available in the 90s, important research and discussion around the mode of action have waned, leading to a deficit in the understanding of how this important therapy influences healing. Further, much research and many publications are predominantly reflective, discussing early theorem, some of which have been proven incorrect, or at least not fully resolved leading to misunderstandings as to how the therapy works, thus potentially denying the clinician the opportunity to optimise use towards improved clinical and economic outcomes. In this narrative review, we discuss established beliefs and challenges to same where appropriate and introduce important new research that addresses the manner in which mechanical strain energy (i.e., deformations) is transferred to tissue and how this influences biological response and healing. In addition, we assess and discuss the effect of different negative pressure dressing formats, how they influence the mode of action and how this understanding can lead to more efficient and effective use and clinical economic outcomes.
Uncomplicated Extravascular Implantable Cardioverter‐Defibrillator Extraction After 4 Years Dwell Time: A Case Report
Authors: de Veld Jolien A. , Kooiman Kirsten M. , Knops Reinoud E.
Published: December 2024

The extravascular implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (EV‐ICD) was developed to overcome complications associated with transvenous leads while being able to deliver anti‐tachycardia pacing (ATP). The lead is implanted in the substernal space, which makes extraction a cautious procedure. We present a case of a 51‐year‐old women with a successful EV‐ICD extraction after a lead dwell time of 4 years, which is the longest reported. The EV‐ICD lead was extracted using simple traction after the removal of all adhesions at the xiphoidal site around the lead. We advise to only use extraction tools if the initial attempt is not successful and if no adhesions at the caudal part of the lead are visible anymore, as these tools could also damage the surrounding tissue and the lead.
The Effect of Lean Hospital Practices on Nurses' Direct Care Activities: Time and Motion Study
Authors: Koc Zibel , Alpar Sule Ecevit
Published: December 2024

Background

This study investigates the effects of lean management practices on nurses' direct patient care activities and the interruptions they encounter in healthcare settings. The literature indicates that lean management enhances efficiency and improves patient care. Increased nursing time per patient correlates with better outcomes; however, rising patient loads and frequent interruptions hinder nurses' ability to deliver effective care, jeopardising patient safety. Addressing these inefficiencies is essential, given nurses' critical role in ensuring quality care.

Method

Using a single‐centre, observational, pre‐post time and motion design alongside participatory action research from August 2019 to July 2022, the study included three phases: a survey assessing nurses' views on problem‐solving and lean management; observations identifying nurses' activities and interruptions; and focus group discussions. The results presented here are from the observation phase, with 34 nurses from surgical, internal medicine, and mixed services participating. Quantitative variables were expressed as means, standard deviations, and significance was assessed at a 95% confidence interval (p < 0.05).

Results

Observations in 2019 (324 h) and 2022 (314 h) revealed that nurses dedicated a significant portion of their time to direct patient care, which increased post‐lean implementation (surgical: 50.67%, internal: 50.09%, mixed: 44.38%). Waste rates decreased by 35.81%, and documentation time decreased by 23.55%. Overall interruptions also decreased significantly (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

Lean management effectively reduces waste and improves direct patient care time, enhancing patient safety and care quality. Continuous improvement initiatives in nursing practices are essential for success.
Lipopolysaccharide differentially alters systemic and brain glucocorticoid levels in neonatal and adult mice
Authors: Hamden Jordan E. , Salehzadeh Melody , Bajaj Hitasha , Li Michael X. , Soma Kiran K.
Published: December 2024

Glucocorticoids (GCs) are secreted by the adrenal glands and increase in response to stressors (e.g., infection). The brain regulates local GC levels via GC synthesis, regeneration and/or metabolism. Little is known about local GC regulation within discrete brain regions at baseline or in response to stress. We treated male and female C57BL/6J mice at postnatal day 5 (PND5) or PND90 with lipopolysaccharide (LPS; 50 μg/kg bw i.p.) or vehicle and collected blood and brain after 4 h. We microdissected the prefrontal cortex, hippocampus, hypothalamus and amygdala. We measured seven steroids, including corticosterone, via liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry and measured transcripts for key steroidogenic enzymes (Cyp11b1, Hsd11b1, Hsd11b2) via qPCR. At both ages, LPS increased GC levels in blood and all brain regions; however, the increases were much greater at PND90 than at PND5. Interestingly, PND5 corticosterone levels were lower in prefrontal cortex than in blood, but higher in amygdala than in blood. These changes in corticosterone levels align with local changes in steroidogenic enzyme expression, demonstrating robust regional heterogeneity and a possible mechanism for the region‐specific effects of early‐life stress. In contrast, PND90 corticosterone levels were lower in all brain regions than in blood and similar among regions, and steroidogenic enzyme mRNA levels were generally not affected by LPS. Together, these data indicate that local GC levels within discrete brain regions are more heterogeneous at baseline and in response to LPS at PND5 than at PND90, as a result of increased local GC production and metabolism in the neonatal brain.
Using digital PCR to investigate the prevalence of KRAS variants in pituitary tumours
Authors: Aran Veronica , Lamback Elisa , Lyra Miranda Renan , Guterres Alexandro , Souza Barbosa Isabel , Chimelli Leila , Gadelha Mônica Roberto , Moura Neto Vivaldo
Published: December 2024

Pituitary tumours (PT) are formed in the pituitary gland, a small gland situated at the base of the brain. These tumours can be categorized according to their histological origin and hormone production. In surgical series, non‐functioning PT are the commonest subtype, followed by functioning somatotroph and corticotroph tumours. Different somatic alterations have been implicated in the pathogenesis of these tumours and the objective of our study was to expand our previous new finding of KRAS pathogenic genetic variants in pituitary tumours. We conducted a digital polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis on formalin‐fixed paraffin‐embedded tissue blocks belonging to 189 patients. The results showed that, from the 184 pituitary tumours with good quality samples, 13 tumours (7.1%) presented mutant KRAS. The median age of the mutated group was 47 years old (range 19–77) and most patients with mutant KRAS tumours were from the female gender (61.5%, 8/13) and non‐functioning subtype. For the first‐time, mutant KRAS in corticotroph and somatotroph tumours were detected, and the variants showed low allele frequencies. In conclusion, we demonstrated that pituitary tumours might have mutant KRAS, and these data were not previously described probably due to lack of sensitivity of previous technologies. By identifying these variants, even at minimal levels, we open doors to a deeper understanding of the tumour microenvironment, clonal evolution and potential therapeutic targets.
Can machine learning assist us in the classification of older patients suffering from dementia based on classic neuropsychological tests and a new financial capacity test performance?
Authors: Giannouli Vaitsa , Kampakis Stylianos
Published: December 2024

Aims

Predicting the diagnosis of an older adult solely based on their financial capacity performance or other neuropsychological test performance is still an open question. The aim of this study is to highlight which tests are of importance in diagnostic protocols by using recent advancements in machine learning.

Methods

For this reason, a neuropsychological battery was administered in 543 older Greek patients already diagnosed with different types of neurocognitive disorders along with a test specifically measuring financial capacity, that is, Legal Capacity for Property Law Transactions Assessment Scale (LCPLTAS). The battery was analysed using a random forest algorithm. The objective was to predict whether an older person suffers from dementia. The algorithm's performance was tested through cross‐validation.

Results

Machine learning was applied for the first time in data analysis regarding financial capacity and three factors‐tests were revealed as the best predictors: two subscales from the LCPLTAS measuring ‘financial decision making’ and ‘cash transactions’, and the widely used MMSE which measures general cognition. The algorithm demonstrated good performance as measured by the F1‐score, which is a measure of the harmonic mean of precision and recall. This evaluation metric in binary and multi‐class classification integrates precision and recall into a single metric to gain a better understanding of model performance.

Conclusions

These findings reveal the importance of focusing on these scales and tests in neuropsychological assessment protocols. Future research may clarify in other cultural settings if the same variables are of importance.
The Clinical Relevance of Prior Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery in Alcohol‐Related Liver Disease in a Nationwide Belgian Liver Transplant Population
Authors: Lefere Sander , Troisi Roberto Ivan , Karam Vincent , Fondevila Constantino , Nevens Frederik , Verbeek Jef , Detry Olivier , Lanthier Nicolas , Serenari Matteo , Wiering Leke , Vanwolleghem Thomas , Moreno Christophe , Berrevoet Frederik , Geerts Anja
Published: December 2024

Background and Aims

Patients with a history of metabolic and bariatric surgery (MBS) are susceptible to developing alcohol use disorder. Outcome after transplantation for alcohol‐related liver disease (ALD) has not been studied in‐depth.

Methods

We included adult patients who underwent a liver transplantation (LT) in Belgium between 1 January 2013 and 31 December 2022 for ALD. We captured all patients with a history of MBS prior to developing ALD, and included non‐MBS patients for comparison.

Results

We identified 39 patients who underwent MBS before developing ALD, and included 443 non‐MBS patients with an LT for ALD as controls. The median time between MBS and diagnosis of severe liver disease was 7.2 years. MBS patients were 9 years younger at the time of transplantation (p < 0.001). Pre‐LT hepatocellular carcinoma was more prevalent in the non‐MBS group (p < 0.001), while severe bacterial infections occurred more frequently in those with prior MBS. Importantly, patients with MBS had a lower survival after LT in age‐ and sex‐adjusted Cox regression analysis (HR 2.205, p = 0.023). Liver disease was listed in 70.0% versus 13.3% of patients as the main cause of death. Liver‐related mortality was linked to alcohol use relapse post‐LT, with significantly more MBS patients experiencing relapse (30.8% vs. 13.3%, p = 0.003).

Conclusion

Following MBS, excessive alcohol use can progress to end‐stage ALD and need for LT. These patients present at a younger age, with more signs of hepatic decompensation, and can be at a higher risk for post‐LT mortality, especially liver‐related death.
“And that main artery's name is life”: Ecosocial injury and resurgent care in Deanuleahki, Sápmi
Authors: Herranen‐Tabibi Annikki
Published: December 2024

Based on 28 months of ethnographic research in Deanuleahki—a river valley in Sápmi, the transborder Indigenous Sámi homeland—this article traces my interlocutors’ striving to reclaim and repair ecological and kin relations through the everyday praxis of care. I trace this striving through the unmaking and remaking of local relations of care amidst encroachment by post‐Second World War Nordic welfare states and regimes of environmental stewardship. I propose a dual conceptualization of ecosocial injury and resurgent care to account for, on the one hand, care's alienation from its social and ecological contexts; and, on the other, the intimate everyday labor of revivifying relations of kinship and belonging, and conditions of material livability, within local ecologies. This defiant and desirous politics of care carves out an opening to attend ethnographically and theoretically to both dislocation and repair in spaces of Indigenous resurgence. In conceptualizing such a politics of care, the article brings into conversation key literatures in medical anthropology and in the interdisciplinary scholarship on care and Indigenous resurgence.
The genetic architecture of floral trait divergence between hummingbird‐ and self‐pollinated monkeyflower (Mimulus) species
Authors: Chen Hongfei , Berg Colette S. , Samuli Matthew , Sotola V. Alex , Sweigart Andrea L. , Yuan Yao‐Wu , Fishman Lila
Published: December 2024

Pollination syndromes are a key component of flowering plant diversification, prompting questions about the architecture of single traits and genetic coordination among traits. Here, we investigate the genetics of extreme floral divergence between naturally hybridizing monkeyflowers, Mimulus parishii (self‐pollinated) and M. cardinalis (hummingbird‐pollinated).

We mapped quantitative trait loci (QTLs) for 18 pigment, pollinator reward/handling, and dimensional traits in parallel sets of F2 hybrids plus recombinant inbred lines and generated nearly isogenic lines (NILs) for two dimensional traits, pistil length and corolla size.

Our multi‐population approach revealed a highly polygenic basis (n = 190 QTLs total) for pollination syndrome divergence, capturing minor QTLs even for pigment traits with leading major loci. There was significant QTL overlap within pigment and dimensional categories. Nectar volume QTLs clustered with those for floral dimensions, suggesting a partially shared module. The NILs refined two pistil length QTLs, only one of which has tightly correlated effects on other dimensional traits.

An overall polygenic architecture of floral divergence is partially coordinated by genetic modules formed by linkage (pigments) and likely pleiotropy (dimensions plus nectar). This work illuminates pollinator syndrome diversification in a model radiation and generates a robust framework for molecular and ecological genomics.
Life‐Threatening Pneumomediastinum Following Dental Scaling and Prophylaxis—Case Report
Authors: Fung Victor C. K. , Lee George C. C. , Chow Velda L. Y.
Published: December 2024

Background

Subcutaneous emphysema (SE) following invasive dental surgeries have been documented in previous literatures in which majority of cases are secondary to use of air‐driven devices. However, there has been limited reports on development of SE and pneumomediastinum following minimally invasive dental scaling procedures.

Aim

The aim of this case repot is to discuss the presentation, potential complications and management of SE and pneumomediastinum in dental patients.

Methods

The authors report two cases of extensive cervicofacial emphysema and pneumomediastinum following dental scaling at two different dentist's clinics.

Results and Conclusion

This case report highlights the potential dangers of this commonly performed dental procedure in office‐based setting that is seemingly low risk. A high index of suspicion, immediate termination of procedure and appropriate management in hospital setting is warranted for the prevention of life‐threatening complications.
“It's like I used to share a room with self‐injury, but now it lives next door”: Exploring experiences of naturalistic improvement in non‐suicidal self‐injury
Authors: Hudson E. , Hartley S. , Taylor P. J.
Published: December 2024

Background

Many people who engage in non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) do not access support from health services, and evidence regarding the effectiveness of interventions is mixed. Despite this, NSSI prevalence rates decrease from adolescence into adulthood. Little is known about what helps alleviate difficulties with NSSI beyond psychological or medical intervention. This study sought to understand factors influencing naturalistic improvements in NSSI.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted over video call with 16 participants who believed their difficulties with NSSI had improved due to factors not attributed to psychological or medical intervention. Interviews were audio recorded and transcribed verbatim for analysis.

Results

A reflexive thematic analysis revealed four main themes. Increased insight into NSSI experiences promoted self‐compassion and self‐acceptance and enabled participants to reflect on the conflicting role of NSSI. Safe and supportive relationships helped alleviate loneliness, and developing alternative coping strategies enhanced feelings of control over self‐injury. Creating a life guided by personal values promoted independence, choice, and self‐esteem.

Conclusions

The findings of the study highlight several internal and external naturalistic processes deemed meaningful in improving difficulties with NSSI. Clinical implications include the importance of developing and embedding these approaches within services and interventions to improve outcomes for individuals who self‐injure while promoting a person‐centred approach.
A novel scoring system for the prediction of disease severity in STEC‐HUS
Authors: Ishibazawa Emi , Nagamori Tsunehisa , Kurisawa Mio June , Sato Masayuki , Yoshida Yoichiro , Takahashi Hironori , Manabe Hiromi , Ishioka Toru , Miura Yurika , Kajino Hiroki , Suzuki Yasuto , Wada Soichiro , Ogiwara Shigetoshi , Tomii Yuji , Aoyagi Hayato , Nagai Kazushige , Naito Hiroyuki , Takahashi Satoru
Published: December 2024

Background

Shiga toxin‐producing Escherichia coli‐associated hemolytic uremic syndrome (STEC‐HUS) is a life‐threatening condition complicated by acute kidney injury, acute respiratory distress syndrome, and central nervous system disorders. The early identification of high‐risk patients is required to facilitate timely and appropriate treatment.

Methods

The medical records of patients with STEC‐HUS treated at 11 hospitals in Hokkaido, Japan, were reviewed retrospectively. A multi‐institutional retrospective analysis was performed in which patients were divided into two groups according to the presence or absence of severe complications requiring blood purification therapy or encephalopathy. We compared the laboratory values at diagnosis between the severe and mild groups. To identify patients at high risk of developing severe complications, a scoring system, referred to as the “STEC‐HUS severity (STEC‐HUSS) score,” was constructed based on the parameters showing significant differences.

Results

Of the 41 patients with STEC‐HUS, 11 were classified into the severe group and 30 into the mild group. Significant differences were observed between the groups in terms of white blood cell count, activated partial thromboplastin time, fibrinogen, D‐dimer, total protein, aspartate transaminase, alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, creatinine, and C‐reactive protein levels. The STEC‐HUSS score was calculated on a scale of 0–10 by summing the number of test items that demonstrated abnormal values. The STEC‐HUSS score, when the cut‐off value was 4, showed a sensitivity of 100% and a specificity of 91% in the severe group.

Conclusion

We developed a novel scoring system to identify patients at high risk of severe STEC‐HUS.
Preprocessing choices for P3 analyses with mobile EEG: A systematic literature review and interactive exploration
Authors: Jacobsen Nadine S. J. , Kristanto Daniel , Welp Suong , Inceler Yusuf Cosku , Debener Stefan
Published: December 2024

Preprocessing is necessary to extract meaningful results from electroencephalography (EEG) data. With many possible preprocessing choices, their impact on outcomes is fundamental. While previous studies have explored the effects of preprocessing on stationary EEG data, this research delves into mobile EEG, where complex processing is necessary to address motion artifacts. Specifically, we describe the preprocessing choices studies reported for analyzing the P3 event‐related potential (ERP) during walking and standing. A systematic review of 258 studies of the P3 during walking, identified 27 studies meeting the inclusion criteria. Two independent coders extracted preprocessing choices reported in each study. Analysis of preprocessing choices revealed commonalities and differences, such as the widespread use of offline filters but limited application of line noise correction (3 of 27 studies). Notably, 59% of studies involved manual processing steps, and 56% omitted reporting critical parameters for at least one step. All studies employed unique preprocessing strategies. These findings align with stationary EEG preprocessing results, emphasizing the necessity for standardized reporting in mobile EEG research. We implemented an interactive visualization tool (Shiny app) to aid the exploration of the preprocessing landscape. The app allows users to structure the literature regarding different processing steps, enter planned processing methods, and compare them with the literature. The app could be utilized to examine how these choices impact P3 results and understand the robustness of various processing options. We hope to increase awareness regarding the potential influence of preprocessing decisions and advocate for comprehensive reporting standards to foster reproducibility in mobile EEG research.
Integrated Quantitative Proteomics and Phosphoproteomics Analysis Reveals the Dynamic Process of Buffalo (Bubalus bubalis) Spermatogenesis
Authors: Zhang Pengfei , Wang Chenyang , Liu Xuyang , Zhang Ming , Fu Qiang , Pan Limei , Huang Yulin
Published: December 2024

Spermatogenesis is a highly complex and tightly regulated cellular differentiation process closely related to the productive performance of male livestock. We do not yet have a clear understanding of the spermatogenesis mechanism of buffalo. In this study, spermatogonia, spermatocytes and spermatids were analysed by flow cytometry. Quantitative proteomic and phosphoproteomic studies were performed on different spermatogenic cells using tandem mass tagging technology and liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. A total of 219 differentially expressed proteins (involved in focal adhesions and actin cytoskeleton pathways) and 71 phosphoproteins (involved in RNA transport and adhesion junction pathways) were obtained. Through trend analysis, a dynamic profile of protein expression was obtained, enriched to the main biological processes at different stages of spermatogenesis. By immunohistochemical localisation analysis, it was found that MACROH2A2, TOP2A, LMNA, LMNA (pS392), VIM and VIM (pS56) had specific localisation in testis cells. Network analysis of kinase‐substrate phosphorylation sites showed that AKT1 is the most active kinase, LMNA is regulated by most kinases and AKT1 can catalyse the phosphorylation of LMNA. This study provides a reference for studying the molecular mechanism of buffalo spermatogenesis and helps clarify the regulatory mechanism of protein translation and post‐translational modification during mammalian spermatogenesis.
Integrating habitat suitability, disturbance, and biotic interactions into the ecological restoration of the saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea) in drylands of the southwest of the United States and northern Mexico
Authors: Albuquerque Fábio Suzart de , Rowe Helen , Búrquez Alberto , Rey Benayas José María
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a combined approach encompassing habitat suitability, biotic interactions, and disturbance to identify high‐value restoration areas (HVRA) for the saguaro (Carnegiea gigantea, Cactaceae)—that is, areas with high habitat suitability for the saguaro and species that favor its establishment, growth, and dispersal (hereafter associated species), which were damaged by wildfires. We used species distribution modeling to produce habitat suitability maps for the saguaro and associated species (four nurse‐plants and 63 animals). We used Hot Spot Spatial Analysis to estimate hotspots of habitat suitability for the saguaro (HSS), nurse species (HNS), and associated animal species (HAS), and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer to identify burned (disturbed) areas. Finally, we estimated the overlay across habitat suitability hotspots and burned areas to identify HVRA. Overall, HSS, HNS, and HAS were mostly distributed across the northeast part of the Sonoran Desert. Results also indicated a strong overlay among HSS, HAS, and HNS. For the first time, this study provides distributional maps using biotic and bioclimatic variables for the giant saguaro cactus. Beyond saguaro conservation, our study can assist conservationists and managers in planning and implementing post‐fire regeneration strategies (e.g. monitoring the spread of exotic invasive grasses across burned areas). HVRA can also aid managers in preserving undisturbed priority areas, managing burned landscapes, prioritizing restoration activities, and evaluating post‐fire vegetation responses.