bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Inducing ipsilateral motor‐evoked potentials in the biceps brachii muscle in healthy humans
Authors: Hu Nijia , Tanel Meghan , Baker Stuart N. , Kidgell Dawson J. , Walker Simon
Published: October 2024

To assess reticulospinal tract excitability, high‐intensity transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) has been used to elicit ipsilateral motor‐evoked potentials (iMEPs). However, there is no consensus on robust and valid methods for use in human studies. The present study proposes a standardized method for eliciting and analysing iMEPs in the biceps brachii. Twenty‐four healthy young adults participated in this study. Electromyography (EMG) electrodes recorded contralateral MEPs (cMEPs) from the right and iMEPs from the left biceps brachii. A dynamic preacher curl task was used with ~15% of the subject's one‐repetition maximum load. The protocol included maximal compound action potential (M‐max) determination of the right biceps brachii muscle, TMS hotspot determination, and four sets of five repetitions where 100% stimulator output was delivered at an elbow angle of 110° of flexion. We normalized cMEP amplitude by M‐max (% M‐max) and iMEP by cMEP amplitude ratio (ICAR). Clear iMEPs above background EMG were observed in 21 subjects (88%, ICAR = .31 ± .19). Good‐to‐excellent agreement (intraclass correlation coefficient [ICC] = .795–1.000) and low bias (.01–.08 mV and .60–1.11 ms) were demonstrated when comparing two different analysis methods (i.e. fixed time‐window vs. manual onset detection) to determine the cMEP and iMEP amplitude and latency, respectively. Most subjects demonstrated clear iMEPs above background EMG triggered at a pre‐determined joint angle during a light‐load dynamic preacher curl exercise. Similar results were obtained when comparing a single‐trial manual identification of iMEP and a semi‐automated time‐window data analysis approach.
Uncoupled Evolutionary Patterns in Spectral and Temporal Components of Acoustic Signals in Anurans Associated With Streams
Authors: Vargas‐Salinas Fernando , Londoño‐Guarnizo Carlos A. , Duarte‐Marín Sebastián , Torres‐Suárez Olga L. , Amézquita Adolfo
Published: October 2024

The use of high‐pitched auditory signals by species communicating alongside noisy streams has been often considered an adaptation, yet studies testing this hypothesis have yielded inconclusive results. The major challenge has been to quantify the proportion of across‐species signal variation that could be attributed to either common history (phylogenetic load) or adaptation. We further advance in this approach by comparing the phylogenetic load between different components of anuran calls. Because stream noise allegedly represents a stronger selective pressure for call frequency than for call temporal traits, we predicted a weaker phylogenetic signal in call frequency, particularly in the taxa that breed alongside streams. We first built a phylogenetic hypothesis using four mitochondrial genes on each of three clades: the genus Hyloscirtus and the family Centrolenidae, which call alongside streams and the subfamily Phyllomedusinae, known to call at lentic water bodies. In parallel, we compiled data on the advertisement calls of 154 species and used them to calculate Blomberg's K values as a proxy for the phylogenetic load (signal) of the call traits. The phylogenetic signal was weaker in spectral than in temporal call traits within the Hyloscirtus calls and weak or absent in both spectral and temporal components of Phyllomedusine calls. Against our expectations, the phylogenetic signal was strong in call frequency, but absent in call temporal components of the centrolenid calls. Our results support uncoupled evolution between spectral and temporal components of anuran calls. They also indicate that the selective role of abiotic noise varies among taxa and that other factors must be invoked to fully understand among‐species variation in advertisement calls.
S–N curves established from limiting energy in the case of specimens additively manufactured from AlSi10Mg
Authors: Matušů Martin , Šimota Jan , Papuga Jan , Rosenthal Jakub , Beránek Libor , Costa Pedro , Bumba Francisco , Reis Luis
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the varying thermal response of additively manufactured specimens made of AlSi10Mg and subjected to cyclic loading. It is well known that the thermal response is driven primarily by the self‐heating effect. The paper explores the possibility of employing thermographic methods to establish an S–N curve for fatigue life prediction with the use of fewer specimens than are traditionally required for an S–N curve established from constant‐amplitude fatigue tests. Specific self‐heating step tests are conducted by gradually increasing the loading amplitude while monitoring the temperature of the specimen. A new approach is introduced to assess the lower limitation of the existing Fargione method, which addresses the absence of the fatigue limit threshold in previously published works. The validity of this approach is compared with our own experimental data. This new dataset concerns additively manufactured (AM) specimens made from AlSi10Mg powder, which were all printed on a single platform. To observe the sensitivity of the updated approach, four groups with different heat treatments were evaluated.
Submerged macrophytes can counterbalance the negative effects of rising temperature and eutrophication by inhibiting the photosynthetic activity of cyanobacteria and adjusting their morphology and physiology
Authors: Zhao Yu , Wang Rong , Jeppesen Erik , Zhang Enlou
Published: October 2024

Climate‐driven changes in temperature and high nutrient inputs from anthropogenic activities significantly impact the interactions between submerged macrophytes and phytoplankton, potentially causing regime shifts in shallow freshwater lakes. Cyanobacteria, in particular, are predicted to become dominant among the phytoplankton under climate change, contributing to the collapse of submerged macrophytes. This study aimed to explore how submerged macrophytes and phytoplankton respond to rising temperatures and nutrient addition, how the presence of submerged macrophytes influences the photosynthetic activity of cyanobacteria, and how submerged macrophytes adapt their morphology and physiology to cope with excess phytoplankton.

We conducted a fully factorial experiment consisting of two temperature conditions (low and high temperature), two nutrient conditions (with and without nutrient addition) and two plant conditions (plant presence and absence). We analysed changes in phytoplankton biomass and diversity (taxonomic and functional) in response to rising temperatures and nutrient addition. The maximum photochemical efficiency of the photosystem II (Fv/Fm) and the maximum relative electron transport rates (rETRmax) of cyanobacteria were determined. We measured the response of macrophytes to environmental changes by measuring antioxidant enzymes, such as superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), as well as morphological indicators like plant height, weight, and the relative growth rate.

In the absence of submerged macrophytes, rising temperatures led to higher total phytoplankton biomass and cyanobacteria dominance alongside reduced taxonomic and functional diversity. Conversely, when submerged macrophytes were present and no nutrients were added, rising temperatures did not lead to increased phytoplankton biomass.

Macrophytes can suppress undesirable cyanobacterial proliferation by competing for nutrients and inhibiting Fv/Fm. Furthermore, under conditions of environmental stress, such as high chlorophyll a concentrations due to nutrient inputs, submerged macrophytes adapted by increasing height and the activity of antioxidant enzymes, such as SOD and CAT.

Within the context of climate warming and increased nutrient inputs, phytoplankton growth, especially of cyanobacteria, may be favoured. However, our study demonstrated the critical role of submerged macrophytes in inhibiting phytoplankton, especially when nutrients were controlled. By using these physiological indicators to assess the life activity of organisms, our research provided new insights into macrophyte‐phytoplankton relationships during regime shifts in aquatic ecosystems.
Novel imaging techniques for tumor margin detection in basal cell carcinoma: a systematic scoping review of FDA and EMA‐approved imaging modalities
Authors: Boostani Mehdi , Bozsányi Szabolcs , Suppa Mariano , Cantisani Carmen , Lőrincz Kende , Bánvölgyi András , Holló Péter , Wikonkál Norbert M. , Huss Wendy J. , Brady Kimberly L. , Paragh Gyorgy , Kiss Norbert
Published: October 2024

Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS) is the gold standard for removing basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) due to its ability to guarantee 100% margin evaluation through frozen section histopathology, offering the highest cure rate among current treatments. However, noninvasive imaging technologies have emerged as promising alternatives to clinical assessment for defining presurgical margins. This systematic scoping review examines the efficacy of these imaging modalities, focusing on those approved for clinical use by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) or the European Medicines Agency (EMA). A systematic search of EMBASE, Scopus, PubMed, and the Cochrane Public Library databases identified 11 relevant studies out of 2123 records, encompassing 644 lesions across five imaging techniques. The findings suggest that dermoscopy, high‐frequency ultrasound (HFUS), optical coherence tomography (OCT), line‐field optical coherence tomography (LC‐OCT), and reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM) show potential in detecting BCC margins, which could enhance MMS by providing better preoperative planning, informing patients of expected defect size, aiding in reconstruction decisions, and reducing overall procedure costs. This review discusses the benefits and limitations of each technique, offering insights into how these innovations could influence the future of BCC management. Emerging imaging techniques could enhance MMS by improving BCC margin assessment and reducing costs. Their adoption will depend on price and ease of use.
The importance of belonging: Interactions between individual and structural risk factors for youth‐disengagement
Authors: Rønningstad Chris
Published: October 2024

Are disengagement risks lower when youths are surrounded by others with similar risk traits? Applying theoretical perspectives of belonging and residential context, this study examines interactional effects between individual and structural risk factors for youth‐disengagement. From registry data of 590,085 Norwegians aged 16–24, the study finds less disengagement among youths in municipalities where an above‐average rate of individuals shared individual risk‐traits of immigrant background, young parenthood, and not completing high school. Youths with parents on social welfare had an increased risk of disengagement in municipalities with above average rates of people on social welfare. Sex‐stratified analysis reveals that men and women benefit from belonging to different risk‐groups. In challenging the prevailing segmented approach to individual and structural risk factors for youth‐disengagement, the findings demonstrate the need for continued examination of gender, belonging and residential context as theoretical perspectives.
The pressure injury prevalence and practice improvements (PIPPI) study: A multiple methods evaluation of pressure injury prevention practices in an acute‐care hospital
Authors: Sim Jenny , Wilson Valerie , Tuqiri Karen
Published: October 2024

Pressure injuries are a significant problem for immobile patients in acute care and can have a profound impact on patients' health and well‐being, putting pressure on healthcare systems and strain on the healthcare economy. Nurses play a pivotal role in preventing pressure injuries. A study using multiple methods was conducted to explore pressure injury prevention practices in four inpatient units within a tertiary‐level Australian Hospital. Quantitative and qualitative methods were used to gather data across a 9‐month period. Observations, audits, surveys and interviews were used to collect data across five time points. Statistical analysis of the quantitative data was undertaken, and thematic analysis was used to analyse qualitative data. Data were integrated using a realist evaluation framework. Ethical approval for the study was granted. The quantitative results demonstrated significant reductions in pressure injury prevalence from 11.5% at commencement to 4.8% at completion of the study. Hospital‐acquired pressure injuries also reduced from 4.6% to 1.9%. These results were achieved even though nursing knowledge and attitudes did not increase during the study period. Three qualitative themes were identified: Making Nursing Care Visible, Understanding the ‘Why’ and Engagement is Key. This study demonstrates that pressure injuries can be prevented with improvements in nursing care processes. Nurses' knowledge and attitudes towards pressure injury prevention did not change throughout this study and further research is required on how nurses' knowledge and attitudes contribute towards pressure injury prevention practices.
Effects of process parameters on deposition behavior and mechanical properties of alumina coatings by aerosol deposition
Authors: Xie Bingying , Hassan‐Naji Rana , Hall David A.
Published: October 2024

As a novel coating spray technique, the aerosol deposition method is applied for the fabrication of dense, nanostructured ceramic coatings at room temperature via an impact consolidation mechanism. It is widely recognized that the successful deposition of coatings is strongly dependent on processing parameters during the deposition process. In this study, a brush‐type aerosol generator was employed to enhance the continuity and stability of the aerosol supply. The uniformity of powder consumption at different packing densities was evaluated; an optimal loading density of 33% was identified for the alumina powders used in this study. Both simulation and experimental studies were performed to investigate the influence of gas flow rate and standoff distance (SoD) on coating fabrication and properties. The predicted particle impact velocity increased with increasing gas flow intensity and SoD, resulting in enhanced mechanical properties of the coatings, including adhesive strength and hardness. The maximum compressive residual stress value of 389 MPa was determined for an alumina coating fabricated at a gas flow rate of 20 L/min.
The impact of computer‐assisted and direct strategy teaching on reading comprehension
Authors: Bulut Aydın , Yıldız Mustafa
Published: October 2024

Background

The use of computer‐assisted reading comprehension is of critical importance in the context of promoting effective and engaging literacy education in the digital age. It provides students with the opportunity to work at their own pace and convenience, thereby facilitating self‐directed learning and accommodating various learning preferences and schedules.

Objectives

The objective of the study was to investigate the impact of computer‐assisted and direct strategy teaching on reading comprehension, reading comprehension self‐efficacy and reading comprehension metacognitive awareness. An experimental application based on the SQ4R strategy was conducted in the direct strategy teaching (DST) and computer‐assisted strategy teaching (CAST) programmes. In the DST group, the implementation of the SQ4R strategy was conducted through direct strategy teaching, whereas in the CAST group, the same activities were carried out with the assistance of computer‐based resources. The principal objective of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of computer‐assisted strategy instruction.

Methods

This study employed a combined sequential descriptive design, integrating qualitative and quantitative research models. The study was conducted with 61 fourth‐grade students, enrolled in three classrooms of a public school situated in the central district of Kastamonu, Turkey, which is characterised by a moderate socioeconomic level. The quantitative component of the study was designed as a pre‐test–post‐test control group experimental study. The qualitative component of the study comprised focus group interviews and observation. Two experimental groups and one control group were established in the course of this study. In the quantitative dimension of the combined sequential descriptive model, the Reading Comprehension Test, Metacognitive Reading Comprehension Scale, and Reading Comprehension Self‐Efficacy Scale were employed as data collection instruments. In order to collect data in the qualitative dimension, semi‐structured interview and observation forms were employed. Furthermore, the researcher's diaries, maintained throughout the research process, were employed as a data source. The quantitative data were analysed using the following techniques: arithmetic mean, frequency, percentage, standard deviation, ANOVA and covariance analysis (ANCOVA). A descriptive analysis was employed for the evaluation of the qualitative data.

Results and Conclusions

Upon examination of the post‐test scores of the CAST, DST and control group students in the Reading Comprehension Test, it was observed that the CAST group exhibited the highest average. A statistically significant difference was also identified between the CAST group and the control group. Nevertheless, no statistically significant difference was identified between the DST group and the control group. Nevertheless, an examination of the mean scores reveals that the DST group exhibited considerably higher Reading Comprehension Test scores.
The risk of type 2‐diabetes among persons with intellectual disability: a Danish population‐based matched cohort study
Authors: Thorsted A. , Lehn S. F. , Kofoed‐Enevoldsen A. , Andersen A. , Heltberg A. , Michelsen S. I. , Thygesen L. C.
Published: October 2024

Background

Previous research shows that obesity, unhealthy eating, physical inactivity and a high use of psychotropic medications are prevalent among persons with intellectual disability (ID), which might increase the risk of type 2‐diabetes (T2DM). This study aims to investigate: (1) whether persons with ID have an increased risk of T2DM compared with an age‐ and sex‐matched reference group and (2) differences in T2DM risk by sex, birth year, ID inclusion diagnosis and ID severity.

Methods

This study is a nationwide cohort study, including 65 293 persons with ID and 659 723 persons in an age‐ and sex‐matched reference group without ID. Incidence rates for T2DM were calculated and Cox proportional regression models were used to estimate adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) for the association between ID and T2DM. Follow‐up began from the 1 January 1977 (when T2DM data were available), participants' 22nd birthday or from the date the participants immigrated to Denmark, whichever came last and continued until the onset of T2DM, emigration, death or end of follow‐up (31 December 2021), whichever came first.

Results

Persons with ID had more than double risk of T2DM compared with the reference group [aHR = 2.15, 95% confidence interval (CI): 2.09–2.20]. The strongest associations were found among women, persons born between 1980 and 1999 and among persons with mild ID.

Conclusions

Persons with ID have an increased risk of T2DM. This knowledge is important in relation to the development and prioritising of preventive initiatives among persons with ID in the healthcare sector. Future research should focus on the underlying mechanisms that can explain the possible association between ID and T2DM as it allows a more targeted prevention strategy.
Geometric characteristics of stromal collagen fibres in breast cancer using differential interference contrast microscopy
Authors: Ghannam Suzan F. , Rutland Catrin Sian , Allegrucci Cinzia , Mather Melissa L. , Alsaleem Mansour , Bateman‐Price Thomas D. , Patke Rodhan , Ball Graham , Mongan Nigel P. , Rakha Emad
Published: October 2024

Breast cancer (BC) is characterised by a high level of heterogeneity, which is influenced by the interaction of neoplastic cells with the tumour microenvironment. The diagnostic and prognostic role of the tumour stroma in BC remains to be defined. Differential interference contrast (DIC) microscopy is a label‐free imaging technique well suited to visualise weak optical phase objects such as cells and tissue. This study aims to compare stromal collagen fibre characteristics between in situ and invasive breast tumours using DIC microscopy and investigate the prognostic value of collagen parameters in BC. A tissue microarray was generated from 200 cases, comprising ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS; n = 100) and invasive tumours (n = 100) with an extra 50 (25 invasive BC and 25 DCIS) cases for validation was utilised. Two sections per case were used: one stained with haematoxylin and eosin (H&E) stain for histological review and one unstained for examination using DIC microscopy. Collagen fibre parameters including orientation angle, fibre alignment, fibre density, fibre width, fibre length and fibre straightness were measured. Collagen fibre density was higher in the stroma of invasive BC (161.68 ± 11.2 fibre/µm2) compared to DCIS (p < 0.0001). The collagen fibres were thinner (13.78 ± 1.08 µm), straighter (0.96 ± 0.006, on a scale of 0–1), more disorganised (95.07° ± 11.39°) and less aligned (0.20 ± 0.09, on a 0–1 scale) in the invasive BC compared to DCIS (all p < 0.0001). A model considering these features was developed that could distinguish between DCIS and invasive tumours with 94% accuracy. There were strong correlations between fibre characteristics and clinicopathological parameters in both groups. A statistically significant association between fibre characteristics and patients’ outcomes (breast cancer specific survival, and recurrence free survival) was observed in the invasive group but not in DCIS. Although invasive BC and DCIS were both associated with stromal reaction, the structural features of collagen fibres were significantly different in the two disease stages. Analysis of the stroma fibre characteristics in the preoperative core biopsy specimen may help to differentiate pure DCIS from those associated with invasion.
Sex differences in the influence of adult‐onset hypothyroidism on hippocampal progenitor survival and neuronal differentiation in mice
Authors: Kapri Darshana , Pradhan Amartya , Vuruputuri Ratna Mahathi , Vaidya Vidita A.
Published: October 2024

The ongoing production of newborn neurons in the adult hippocampus is reported to be sensitive to perturbations of thyroid hormone signaling, in male rats and mice. Here, we examined whether the neurogenic changes evoked by adult‐onset hypothyroidism exhibit sex differences, using male and female C57BL/6N mice. We assessed the impact of goitrogen‐induced, adult‐onset hypothyroidism on the postmitotic survival and differentiation of hippocampal progenitors in male and female mice. Adult‐onset hypothyroidism evoked a significant decline in the postmitotic survival and neuronal differentiation of adult‐born progenitors within the dentate gyrus hippocampal subfield of male, but not female, mice. We observed a significant decrease in the number of immature neurons within the hippocampi of adult‐onset hypothyroid male mice, whereas adult‐onset hypothyroidism evoked by goitrogens using the same treatment paradigms did not evoke any change in immature neuron number in female mice. Gene expression analysis within the hippocampi of euthyroid male and female mice revealed sex‐dependent, differential expression of thyroid hormone receptor genes, as well as genes linked to thyroid hormone metabolism and transport. Collectively, our findings highlight sex differences in the influence of goitrogen‐induced, adult‐onset hypothyroidism on hippocampal neurogenesis, with male, but not female, mice exhibiting a decline in postmitotic hippocampal progenitor survival and neuronal differentiation. These findings underscore the importance of sex as a vital variable when considering the impact of thyroid hormone signaling on the adult hippocampal neurogenic niche.
HArmonyCa™ hybrid filler to restore connective tissue: An Italian real‐life retrospective study
Authors: Proietti Ilaria , Spagnoli Alessandra , Favaroni Alison , Gritti Alessandro , Dal Canton Marco , Quartucci Sandro , Sciuto Chantal , Bertossi Dario , Patalano Mariagrazia , Cavallini Maurizio , Saliani Maria Teresa , Kefalas Nicola , Angelone Enrica , Mogavero Selene
Published: October 2024

Background

Facial aging and dermal conditions may negatively influence the quality of life, leading patients to seek aesthetic procedures to restore a more satisfying appearance. HArmonyCa™ is a recently developed hybrid filler that combines the actions of the most common dermal fillers, hyaluronic acid (HA) and calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA).

Aims

This study investigates the efficacy and safety of HArmonyCa™ in patients affected by chrono‐ and photoaging and several facial skin conditions.

Patients/Methods

One hundred and twenty‐nine patients, affected by chrono‐ and photoaging, and skin conditions such as oily and acne‐prone skin, rosacea, or scarring, were treated with HArmonyCa™. Injections followed the retrograde linear fanning technique. A physicians' consensus identified five optimal entry points. The physician and patients assessed treatment outcomes using the Global Aesthetic Improvement Scale (GAIS) 9 months after treatment (including immediate lift effect, skin firmness, and elasticity), and 3D images were taken for documentation. Adverse events (AEs) were evaluated immediately after the procedure and after 9 months.

Results

According to the physician's assessments, all patients displayed an improvement in facial appearance, particularly during movement, with the patients' evaluation showing agreement. Only minor AEs were reporte, which resolved spontaneously. Moreover, HArmonyCa™ treatment proved compatible with different medications and aesthetic procedures.

Conclusions

This study shows that one treatment with HArmonyCa™ yields highly satisfactory outcomes in patients affected by skin conditions. For the first time, we show that HArmonyCa™ is a dynamic filler that improves facial laxity during movement. The treatment proved to be safe and fully compatible with other cosmetic procedures and medications.
Leveraging a Global Partnership to Address COVID‐19‐Related Mental Health Challenges
Authors: Pandian Vinciya , Sathiyaseelan Manoranjitham , Chang Chiu Angela , Ravindran Vinitha , Kverno Karan , Durai Sheela , Wilson Patty , Sony Alice , Rodney Tamar , Rediger Katherine , Nirmal Ida , Seetharaman Bala , Regier Natalie G. , Charles Helen Sujatha , Docal Maria , Farley Jason , Sadan Vathsala , Reynolds Nancy R.
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The COVID‐19 pandemic profoundly affected nurses globally. As frontline workers, nurses faced increased responsibilities amid challenges such as isolation, infection risks, family obligations and disrupted social support systems. Coping with these challenges was associated with adverse mental health outcomes.

Aim/Question

This perspective paper examines a collaboration between two schools of nursing in the United States and India to address these mental health challenges.

Methods

Faculty from both institutions identified key mental health topics, leading to five webinars that delved into topics such as acute and long‐term impacts of COVID‐19 on nurse mental health, coping mechanisms, caregiving responsibilities and children's needs during the pandemic.

Results

Impressively, over 11,000 nurses from 60 countries engaged, fostering a global platform for sharing evidence‐based knowledge, experiences and strategies.

Implications for Practice

This partnership exemplifies the value of international collaboration. By pooling resources and expertise across cultural contexts, the initiative not only disseminated crucial knowledge but also cultivated a sense of global community among nurses. The success of this collaboration underscores the potential of such global partnerships for healthcare institutions worldwide, offering avenues to share best practices and enhance support systems for nurses confronting similar crises globally.
Irregular breakfast eating in type 2 diabetes mellitus is associated with greater social jetlag and poorer metabolic health
Authors: Mustafa Mohamad , Healy Ultan , Kosidialwa Oratile , Wong Matt , Alsalman Shayma , Conway Orla , Kelly Rachel M. , Sreenan Seamus , Coogan Andrew N. , McDermott John H.
Published: October 2024

Circadian disruption, arising from conflict between internal circadian time and behavioural sleep–wake and fasting–feeding rhythms, may contribute to the prevalence of type 2 diabetes mellitus and disease severity. Previous studies have demonstrated a link between irregular breakfast eating and poorer metabolic health. We aimed to further explore the relationships between breakfast habits, circadian misalignment (social jetlag), and metabolic parameters in a cohort of adult participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus. A total of 330 adult participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus attending for routine clinical review completed structured questionnaires to assess habitual sleep timing, chronotype, and social jetlag. Statistical analysis was via inferential groupwise approaches and path analysis to establish interdependencies of effects of social jetlag, chronotype, and breakfast eating regularity on HbA1c. 22.7% of the participants reported eating breakfast five times or fewer a week, and were categorised as irregular breakfast eaters. Compared with those who ate breakfast six or seven times a week, irregular breakfast eaters had significantly higher HbA1c and diastolic blood pressure, were younger and had greater social jetlag. In the path analysis, irregular breakfast eating exerted a direct effect on HbA1c, whilst social jetlag exerted only an indirect effect on HbA1c through breakfast eating regularity. Chronotype did not exert any effect on HbA1c, but did exert an indirect effect on breakfast eating regularity via social jetlag. Our results showed that adult participants with type 2 diabetes mellitus, who ate breakfast irregularly had poorer metabolic health and greater social jetlag. The relationship between social jetlag and glycaemic control appears to be mediated through breakfast eating habits.
Identification of feline erythrocyte antigen 6 and lack of alloimmunization to feline erythrocyte antigen 4 in cats
Authors: Ternisien Thomas , Azoulay Florian , Bangash Mohammad Y. , Blais Marie‐Claude
Published: October 2024

Background

New feline erythrocyte antigens (FEAs) have been described based on the presence of naturally occurring alloantibodies (NOAb), but their immunogenicity and clinical relevance are poorly understood.

Hypothesis/Objectives

Describe the immunogenicity of FEA 4 after sensitizing FEA 4–negative cats lacking NOAb and characterize anti–FEA 4 alloantibodies produced, including their rate of appearance, agglutination titer, and immunoglobulin class.

Animals

Nineteen healthy type A cats were blood typed for FEAs 1 to 5 to identify suitable donor‐recipient pairs for FEA 4 sensitization.

Methods

Four FEA 4–negative cats were transfused with FEA 4–positive red blood cells. Using a gel column technique, posttransfusion samples were screened daily for a week, weekly for a month, and monthly thereafter for anti–FEA 4 alloantibodies.

Results

Alloantibodies were not detected in the first 3 recipients despite repeated transfusions (1 and 3 additional transfusions for 2 and 1 recipients, respectively). In the 4th recipient, alloantibodies against its donor red blood cells were detected 21 days postsensitization. However, they were not directed against FEA 4, but rather against a novel FEA not yet described. The alloantibodies, named anti–FEA 6, remained detectable for >4 months after sensitization and were determined to be mostly immunoglobulin M based on sulfhydryl treatment.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Feline erythrocyte antigen 4 does not appear to be immunogenic because repeated sensitization of 4 cats failed to produce detectable anti–FEA 4 alloantibodies. A new immunogenic antigen, named FEA 6, has been discovered, but additional studies are needed to document its clinical importance.
The chemical language of plant–microbe–microbe associations: an introduction to a Virtual Issue
Authors: Hacquard Stéphane , Martin Francis M.
Published: October 2024

This Editorial introduces the Virtual Issue ‘Chemical language of plant–microbe–microbe associations’ that includes the following papers: Basak et al. (2024), Böttner et al. (2023), Brisson et al. (2023), Feng et al. (2023), Gfeller et al. (2024), Gómez‐Pérez et al. (2023), Hong et al. (2022, 2023), Hu et al. (2024), Jiang et al. (2024), Lee et al. (2024), Nakano (2024), Ökmen et al. (2023), Revillini et al. (2023), Rovenich & Thomma (2023), Simonin et al. (2022), Snelders et al. (2023), Walsh et al. (2024), Wen et al. (2023), Xia et al. (2023), Xie et al. (2023), Zhang et al. (2023, 2024), Zheng et al. (2023), Zhou et al. (2023, 2024). Access the Virtual Issue at www.newphytologist.com/virtualissues.
The Unintended Consequence of Stringent Immigration Enforcement on Staffing Levels in Nursing Homes: Evidence from Secure Communities
Authors: Gunadi Christian
Published: October 2024

The provision of healthcare in the United States is increasingly reliant on immigrant workers. In this paper, I examine the impact of Secure Communities, a major immigration enforcement program designed to check the immigration status of all individuals arrested by local police, on staffing levels in nursing homes. Using a difference‐in‐differences strategy that exploits the staggered activation of Secure Communities across US counties, I found that the program reduced directcare staff hours per resident day by 0.073, an approximately 2% decline relative to the mean of treatment counties in the baseline period. This finding suggests that stringent immigration enforcement may exacerbate the healthcare worker shortage in the United States.
Recurrence rate of the odontogenic keratocysts patient cohort in a UK regional maxillofacial surgery unit
Authors: Gilvetti Ciro , Mahendran Krishantini , Gulati Aakshay , Barrett Andrew William
Published: October 2024

Background

Despite the benign nature of odontogenic keratocyst (OKC), the reported recurrence rates range from 3% to 60% depending on the treatment modality. Surgical enucleation alone is often insufficient to prevent recurrence, thus adjunctive therapies have been adopted. The aim of this study was to determine the recurrence rate of OKC, both sporadic and those associated with naevoid basal cell carcinoma syndrome based on the treatment modality.

Materials and Methods

Two hundred patients diagnosed and treated between 2012 and 2021 for OKC were identified, from which 72 were excluded because of inadequate clinicopathological data. Forty‐four (34.3%) patients were cases of syndromic and 84 (65.5%) sporadic OKC.

Results

The most common surgical procedure was enucleation alone (45%) followed by enucleation and removal of the associated tooth (28.1%). Carnoy's solution was the most used adjunctive method (14.7%). The overall recurrence rate of sporadic OKC in our study was 18.7% which was in line with the 16.6% reported by Al‐Moraissi et al. in their systematic review.

Conclusions

Syndromic cases were statistically significantly more likely to recur at the same site of the surgery than sporadic cases (p < 0.05) with a recurrence rate of 52% (23 out of 44). Overall, adjunctive treatments to enucleation alone are associated with a lower recurrence rate but no one method eliminates recurrence.

Practical Implications

Incisional biopsy and diagnosis of OKC can better tailor definitive treatment. Syndromic OKC is associated with a higher recurrence rate, and adjunctive treatments to enucleation alone help in reducing recurrence rate.
Forecasting Population in an Uncertain World: Approaches, New Uses, and Troubling Limitations
Authors: Lee Ronald
Published: October 2024

The long human lifespan enables long run forecasts of population size and age distribution. New methods include biodemographic research on upper limits to life expectancy and incorporation of early experiences affecting later life mortality such as smoking, obesity, and childhood health shocks. Some fertility forecasts incorporate education and quantum‐tempo insights. Statistical time series and Bayesian methods generate probabilistic forecasts. Yet recent decades have brought surprising changes in the economy, natural environment, and vital rates. In these changing circumstances we need new methods and the increasing use of probabilistic models and Bayesian methods incorporating outside information. The increasing use of microsimulation combined with aggregate forecasting methods is a very promising development enabling more detailed and heterogeneous forecasts. Some new uses of stochastic forecasts are interesting in themselves. Probabilistic mortality forecasts are used in finance and insurance, and a new Longevity Swap industry has been built on them. Random sample paths used to generate stochastic population forecasts can stress‐test public pension designs for fiscal stability and intergenerational equity. Population forecasting a few decades ago was a dull backwater of demographic research, but now it is increasingly important and is full of intellectual and technical challenges.
Unravelling the impact of cassava mosaic disease caused by Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus infection: Insights from proteomics analysis of photosynthesis‐ and respiration‐related proteins
Authors: Vannatim Nattachai , Chaowongdee Somruthai , Malichan Srihunsa , Roytrakul Sittiruk , Charoenlappanit Sawanya , Siriwan Wanwisa
Published: October 2024

Sri Lankan cassava mosaic virus (SLCMV) poses a significant threat to global food security by affecting the production of cassava (Manihot esculenta) in South‐east Asia. It causes mosaic patterns on the leaves, disrupts photosynthesis and respiration, and alters carbohydrate accumulation in the tubers. This study aimed to identify proteins associated with cassava mosaic disease symptoms in three cassava cultivars: resistant (TMEB419), tolerant (Kasetsart 50, KU50) and susceptible (Rayong 11, R11) to SLCMV. These cultivars were inoculated with SLCMV using top‐cleft grafting and monitored at 21, 32 and 67 days post‐inoculation (dpi). The disease severity differed among the cultivars following SLCMV inoculation. Liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS)‐based proteomics analysis identified 541 differentially expressed proteins (DEPs), including photosynthesis‐ and respiration‐associated proteins such as RuBisCO large subunit‐binding protein α (LSBP), chlorophyll a‐b binding protein, photosystem I reaction centre subunit III (PSI‐F), glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase (GAPDH) and fructose‐bisphosphate aldolase (FBA). A protein–protein interaction network revealed interactions among PSI, PSII, cytochrome complex proteins and electron transporter proteins. Chlorophyll(ide) b reductase NYC1, upregulated in R11 (susceptible) at 21 and 32 dpi, interacted with chlorophyllase‐related proteins, suggesting that it has a role in altering chlorophyll metabolism. Reverse transcription‐quantitative PCR gene expression analysis confirmed upregulation of genes related to photosynthesis and respiration in KU50 and R11, predominantly at 21 or 32 dpi. These findings provide valuable insights into cassava responses to SLCMV infection, especially at the protein level and are key for developing resistant cultivars and effective disease management strategies in future research.
Improving reliability of PCR diagnostics for Xylophilus ampelinus by metagenome‐informed circumscription of the target taxon
Authors: Carminati Gaia , Bianchi Gian Luca , De Amicis Francesca , Cannistraci Isabella , Sadallah Abderraouf , Ermacora Paolo , Torelli Emanuela , Martini Marta , Firrao Giuseppe
Published: October 2024

Xylophilus ampelinus is a xylematic bacterium causing bacterial blight of grapevine, a disease regarded as a potential threat for viticulture in several countries. Currently, PCR detection is pivotal in diagnostic protocols due to the bacterium's infrequent occurrence in the field and the technical advantages of PCR. Recent metagenomic studies have unveiled diversity in its taxonomic domain, unknown when the most widely used assays for the detection of X. ampelinus infections were developed. In particular, PCR assays relying on highly conserved sequence regions, such as those surrounding ribosomal RNA genes, may be substituted with more specific PCR assays. In this study, we first investigated the diversity of detectable grapevine endophytes related to but different from X. ampelinus and delineated the genotaxonomic boundaries of the species in relation to the known (meta)genomes of closely related bacteria. Then, by exploiting the wealth of genomes now available for bacteria classified in the Burkholderiales, we devised several sets of primers targeting only X. ampelinus and its closest relatives. These primers were employed to (i) genotaxonomically circumscribe the grapevine endophyte species related to but distinguishable from X. ampelinus and (ii) develop a robust multiplex PCR assay expected to be specific for the species X. ampelinus based on in vitro and in silico evidence. The adoption of the multiplex PCR assay presented here is expected to reduce the risk of false positives in the diagnosis of bacterial blight of grapevine.
The prominent multiplication of Japanese soil‐borne wheat mosaic virus co‐infected with barley yellow mosaic virus in barley
Authors: Zhu Hongjing , Mishina Kohei , Tagiri Akemi , Chen Gang , Han Chenjing , Chen Ling , Nakamura Shingo , Kikuchi Shinji , Sassa Hidenori , Kato Tsuneo , Komatsuda Takao , Oono Youko
Published: October 2024

Various members of the viral genera Furovirus and Bymovirus are damaging pathogens of a range of crop species. Infection of the soil‐borne plasmodiophorid Polymyxa graminis transmits both Japanese soil‐borne wheat mosaic virus (JSBWMV) and the barley yellow mosaic virus (BaYMV) to barley, but their interaction during an episode of their co‐infection has not been characterized to date. Here, we present an analysis of the titer of JSBWMV and BaYMV in plants of winter barley growing over a five‐month period from late fall until mid‐spring. Although JSBWMV was detectable in the plants' roots four weeks earlier than BaYMV, the translocation of both viruses from the root to the leaves occurred nearly simultaneously. Both viruses were co‐localized in the roots, leaf sheathes, and leaf blades; however, in some stripes of leaf veins where infection by JSBWMV was prominent, BaYMV was not detectable. A substantial titer of both viruses persisted until early spring, after which JSBWMV became more prominent, being in a range of 10 to 100 times abundant of BaYMV. However, JSBWMV was only able to infect a single wheat accession (cv. Norin 61), whereas all of the wheat entries assayed appeared to be immune to BaYMV infection. Overall, our findings highlight the importance of resistance mechanisms against soil‐borne viruses in cereal crops, expanding our understanding of plant‐virus interactions and potentially informing strategies for crop protection against viral pathogens.
Convergence of unforced errors in the matching problem
Authors: Vidal Ignacio
Published: October 2024

The Central Limit Theorem (CLT) is a fundamental result in probability theory with numerous applications in various disciplines. There are a wide variety of CLT‐like theorems, for example the De Moivre–Laplace, Lindeberg and Lyapounov theorems. Independent and identically distributed random variables with a finite second moment are usually considered assumptions in CLTs. However, in this article we present a CLT for a sum of dependent and nonidentically distributed Bernoulli random variables that arises in the well‐known matching experiment.
International review of blood donation screening for anti‐HBc and occult hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Fu Michael X. , Faddy Helen M. , Candotti Daniel , Groves Jamel , Saa Paula , Styles Claire , Adesina Opeyemi , Carrillo Jose Perez , Seltsam Axel , Weber‐Schehl Marijke , O'Brien Sheila F. , Drews Steven J. , Aidoo Nana Benyin , Pajares Ángel Luis , Perez Laura Navarro , Deng Xuelian , van de Laar Thijs , Laperche Syria , Lehtisalo Riikka , Yilmaz Soner , Tsoi Wai‐Chiu , Juhl David , Niederhauser Christoph , Chenarsabz Nahid , O'Flaherty Niamh , Goto Naoko , Satake Masahiro , Renaud Christian , Lewin Antoine , Cloutier Marc , Sawadogo Salam , Reynolds Claire , Zhiburt Eugene , Muylaert An , Van Gaever Véronique , Garcia‐Otalora Michel‐Andres , Jarvis Lisa , Vermeulen Marion , Busch Michael , Blackmore Stuart , Jones Ann , Brailsford Su , Irving William L. , Andersson Monique , Simmonds Peter , Harvala Heli ,   the Virology subgroup of the ISBT WP‐TTID
Published: October 2024

Background

Hepatitis B core antibody (anti‐HBc) screening has been implemented in many blood establishments to help prevent transmission of hepatitis B virus (HBV), including from donors with occult HBV infection (OBI). We review HBV screening algorithms across blood establishments globally and their potential effectiveness in reducing transmission risk.

Materials and Methods

A questionnaire on HBV screening and follow‐up strategies was distributed to members of the International Society of Blood Transfusion working party on transfusion‐transmitted infectious diseases. Screening data from 2022 were assimilated and analyzed.

Results

A total of 30 unique responses were received from 25 countries. Sixteen respondents screened all donations for anti‐HBc, with 14 also screening all donations for HBV DNA. Anti‐HBc prevalence was 0.42% in all blood donors and 1.19% in new donors in low‐endemic countries; however, only 44% of respondents performed additional anti‐HBc testing to exclude false reactivity. 0.68% of anti‐HBc positive, HBsAg‐negative donors had detectable HBV DNA. Ten respondents did universal HBV DNA screening without anti‐HBc, whereas four respondents did not screen for either. Deferral strategies for anti‐HBc positive donors were highly variable. One transfusion‐transmission from an anti‐HBc negative donor was reported.

Discussion

Anti‐HBc screening identifies donors with OBI but also results in the unnecessary deferral of a significant number of donors with resolved HBV infection and donors with false‐reactive anti‐HBc results. Whilst confirmation of anti‐HBc results could be improved to reduce donor deferral, transmission risks associated with anti‐HBc negative OBI donors must be considered. In high‐endemic areas, highly sensitive HBV DNA testing is required to identify infectious donors.
Real cameras, irreal things: Image‐making and ethnographic insight
Authors: Georgiev Konstantin
Published: October 2024

This article explores the effects of image‐making on ethnographic insight. The topic is approached within the epistemological framework of recent revisions of anthropology's reflexive turn. Empirical observation, photographic experiments, and the work of anthropologists, historians, and philosophers are employed to argue that photography—and, especially, experimental techniques—brings together different modes of knowledge and make communicable an array of irreal things. By working with data gathered serendipitously outside of the author's ethnographic project, the arguments of this article extend further and recover older theoretical assertions that ethnographic knowledge production involves the whole self.