bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bolstering family therapy: Assimilating EMDR into ABFT in youth residential treatment
Authors: Dellorco Meredith , Lynch Olivia , Ziegelmeyer Erin , Roeske Michael , Winston‐Lindeboom Payne , Diamond Guy
Published: August 2024

The psychotherapy field has a long history of integration to improve treatment effectiveness. One type, assimilative integration, offers innovative opportunities to family therapy to incorporate the clinical and research contributions of different approaches. This paper contributes to the literature on integration by exploring how Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) can be assimilated into Attachment‐Based Family Therapy (ABFT) for youth in residential psychiatric treatment. ABFT seeks to improve attachment security to parental figures by asking adolescents and young adults to discuss attachment ruptures. This process, specially designed for patients with internalizing disorders, can provoke anxiety, particularly for a patient population that commonly has a history of trauma and adverse life experiences. EMDR is a first‐line therapy for post‐traumatic stress disorder and has the potential to be effective in treating various other mental health conditions. When patient emotional withdrawal or dysregulation due to breaches in trust between child and parent emerges in ABFT, EMDR may help desensitize associated memories and bolster the family therapy process. The authors provide an overview of both models, and a detailed case study as an example. The paper concludes with a discussion on implications, integration efforts, and limitations.
Is women's empowerment enough for intimate partner violence in Muslim‐majority nations?
Authors: Hatun Dogan , Fidan Ahmet
Published: August 2024

Objective

This study investigates the roles of women's empowerment through employment and decision‐making power on the association between intimate partner violence (IPV) and gender traditionalism in Muslim‐majority nations.

Background

Women empowerment and gender ideology perspectives argue that women's resources or egalitarian ideology decrease the IPV that women experience. Many studies, in various nations, found backlash effects where women were exposed to more IPV.

Method

Using Demographic and Health Surveys of Afghanistan 2015 (N = 19,862), Egypt 2014 (N = 6,283), Pakistan 2017–2018 (N = 3,167), and Tajikistan 2017 (N = 4,864) and negative binomial regression analyses, we examined the effects of married women's empowerment on IPV (emotional, physical, sexual, and husbands' controlling behaviors [HCB]).

Results

Overall, we found that women's gender traditionalism increased IPV in all nations. Women's empowerment, however, decreased the total IPV associated with gender traditionalism in four nations, but women's employment increased the total IPV in Egypt.

Conclusions

We conclude that total IPV and HCB are related to gender traditionalism, but they depend on women's empowerment in some Muslim‐majority nations.

Implications

Governments might consider making policies that would increase women's knowledge on gender equity and working women's rights, such as including gender quotas in workplaces to empower women. This could lead to a long‐term decrease in attitudes that tolerate IPV.
Climatic Effects on Vapor Flow and Behavior in the Vadose Zone
Authors: Eklund Bart
Published: August 2024

The concentrations and transport of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and other vapors in the vadose zone may exhibit some degree of temporal variability due to the effect of various climatic factors, including (1) Air temperature; (2) Barometric pressure; (3) Surface winds; and (4) Soil moisture, including the effects of any water infiltration and/or changes in groundwater level. These variables may directly affect the rates of gas transport through the vadose zone or may indirectly affect transport by changing the soil‐gas concentrations at a given location and depth. To understand the potential effect of these factors due to climate change, it is first necessary to understand their effect over typical time periods of one to several days, seasonally, and annually. In this paper, the effects of the above variables over various time periods are presented and the long‐term effects due to climate change are discussed. Standard approaches for soil‐gas measurement attempt to account for these variables, either to negate their potential influence or to capture data under reasonably worst‐case conditions. The appropriateness and adequacy of typical soil vapor measurement approaches are discussed.
Technologies to decontaminate aflatoxins in foods: a review
Authors: Kinyoro Ibrahim Shabani , Kaale Lilian
Published: August 2024

Aflatoxins are toxic secondary metabolites produced by Aspergillus spp., found in staple food commodities. Aflatoxins are carcinogenic, teratogenic, and mutagenic and pose a serious threat to the health of humans. The identification and quantification of aflatoxins in foods is a major challenge to guarantee food safety. Therefore, developing feasible, sensitive, and robust methods for decontamination is paramount, with short processing time and negligible impact on quality. This review evaluates recent novel technologies for aflatoxins decontamination by physical methods (microwave heating, Gama and electron beam irradiation, pulse light and ultraviolet), chemical methods (ozone, natural plant extracts, and organic acids), and biological methods (atoxigenic Aspergillus strains, Trichoderma spp., and bacteria and yeast). The study highlights on the cutting‐edge technologies of smart packaging and artificial intelligence (AI). To achieve more efficiency and adaptability to different food matrices in aflatoxins decontamination, the study suggests integrating multiple strategies. The study also recommends integrating Partnership for Delivery (P4D) to share the responsibility to increase the chance for success and control aflatoxins in foods.
Bees travelling south: Climate‐induced range shifts and suitable habitat losses in south‐eastern neotropics
Authors: Pereira Felipe W. , Araujo Matheus L. , Brum Fernanda T. , Melo Gabriel A. R. , Moura Mauricio O. , Gonçalves Rodrigo B.
Published: August 2024

Aim

To provide an assessment of climate change impacts on a set of wild pollinators restricted to one of the regions with the greatest diversity of bees in the world. Also, we aimed to test whether functional groups responded differently to climate projections.

Location

South‐eastern South America (SES).

Taxon

Bees (Hymenoptera: Apidae sensu lato).

Methods

We selected 18 species of bees mostly restricted to the SES region, modelled their distributions and assessed the possible impacts of near future (2050) climate change in species richness and shifts in range centroids. Potential impacts related to different functional groups were evaluated through t‐tests.

Results

SES species richness was projected to decrease in the northernmost regions and increase southward. Most bee species were predicted to shift their range centroids towards the south‐west and south, while suitable stable areas were found in southern Brazil. We also found higher proportional losses in suitable areas for eusocial species compared to solitary ones, while generalists showed slightly lower gains than specialists.

Main Conclusion

SES bees are likely to undergo changes in the near future, with projected losses of species at northern portions and southward increases. The identified stable areas in southern Brazil underscore the importance of conservation efforts in the region, particularly in natural grasslands – an endangered habitat with high bee diversity. Although our results suggest higher vulnerability for functional groups traditionally considered more resilient, it is essential to acknowledge that other factors, including habitat and mutualists availability, behavioural particularities, phenology and range size, must be determinants for the vulnerability of species to ongoing climate change.
Effectiveness of community‐based hypertension management on hypertension in the urban slums of Haiti: A mixed methods study
Authors: St Sauveur Reichling , Sufra Rodney , Jean Pierre Marie Christine , Rouzier Vanessa , Preval Fabiola , Exantus Serfine , Jean Mirline , Jean Josette , Forestal Guyrlaine Pierre‐Louise , Fleurijean Obed , Mourra Nour , Ogyu Anju , Malebranche Rodolphe , Brisma Jean Pierre , Deschamps Marie M. , Pape Jean W. , Sundararajan Radhika , McNairy Margaret L. , Yan Lily D.
Published: August 2024

Hypertension is a leading contributor to mortality in low‐middle income countries including Haiti, yet only 13% achieve blood pressure (BP) control. We evaluated the effectiveness of a community‐based hypertension management program delivered by community health workers (CHWs) and physicians among 100 adults with uncontrolled hypertension from the Haiti Cardiovascular Disease Cohort. The 12‐month intervention included: community follow‐up visits with CHWs (1 month if BP uncontrolled ≥140/90, 3 months otherwise) for BP measurement, lifestyle counseling, medication delivery, and dose adjustments. Primary outcome was mean change in systolic BP from enrollment to 12 months. Secondary outcomes were mean change in diastolic BP, BP control, acceptability, feasibility, and adverse events. We compared outcomes to 100 age, sex, and baseline BP matched controls with standard of care: clinic follow‐up visits with physicians every 3 months. We also conducted qualitative interviews with participants and providers. Among 200 adults, median age was 59 years, 59% were female. Baseline mean BP was 154/89 mmHg intervention versus 153/88 mmHg control. At 12 months, the difference in SBP change between groups was −12.8 mmHg (95%CI −6.9, −18.7) and for DBP −7.1 mmHg (95%CI −3.3, −11.0). BP control increased from 0% to 58.1% in intervention, and 28.4% in control group. Four participants reported mild adverse events. In mixed methods analysis, we found community‐based delivery addressed multiple participant barriers to care, and task‐shifting with strong teamwork enhanced medication adherence. Community‐based hypertension management using task‐shifting with CHWs and community‐based care was acceptable, and effective in reducing SBP, DBP, and increasing BP control.
Influence of dental midline deviation with respect to facial flow line on smile esthetics—A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Tahir Kanza , Barakaat Afeefa Abul , Shaukat Umair , Maaz Muhammad , Fida Mubassar , Sukhia Rashna Hoshang
Published: August 2024

Background/Objective

A contemporary concept states that dental midline deviation towards the direction of facial flow line (FFL) can mask the compromised smile esthetics. This study aimed to identify a range of midline deviations that can be perceived towards or away from the FFL influencing smile esthetics.

Materials and Methods

A cross‐sectional study was conducted using a frontal smile photograph of an adult female. The photograph was altered on Adobe Photoshop software into six different photographs by deviating the dental midlines towards and away from the FFL. A constant deviation of chin towards the left side was incorporated in all the photographs. Forty‐three laypersons (LP) and dental professionals (DPs) evaluated those photographs. Independent t‐test was used to compare the perception of dental midline deviation between LP and DPs. Simple linear regression was run to identify the factors associated with the scoring.

Results

A statistically significant difference was observed for picture two with 4 mm towards FFL in the perception of midline deviation between LP and DPs. LP could not perceive the midline deviations up to 4 mm while DPs were able to perceive deviations above 2 mm. The greater the age the better the scores were and female raters had a greater inclination towards poor scores.

Conclusions

From 2 to 4 mm of midline deviation towards the FFL can be tolerated by LP and DPs.

Clinical Significance

These findings underscore the importance of considering facial symmetry in orthodontic and cosmetic dental treatments to optimize smile esthetics.
An integrated urban metabolism and ecosystem service assessment: The case study of Lima, Peru
Authors: Cárdenas‐Mamani Úrsula , Perrotti Daniela
Published: August 2024

Against the backdrop of urbanization and its environmental impacts, this study expands urban metabolism research by integrating knowledge from the ecosystem service (ES) concept. A framework was put forward to capitalize on ES knowledge in metabolic studies and material flow analysis in particular while supporting dynamic analysis of ES supply and demand flows through factors such as pressure, state, and drivers. This framework is tested in the city of Lima, Peru, to evaluate six ESs and express their contribution in a standard economy‐wide material flow analysis of the city. Moreover, simulations were deployed to forecast spatiotemporal variations of resource flows and emissions until the year 2050. Findings indicate a gap between the city's ES demand and the availability of its local natural resources. Demand exceeds local supply ES flows in Lima, with the exception of surface water provision and cane‐mats for construction materials, representing 141% and 128% of the total supply, respectively. However, they are projected to reduce by the year 2050: 19% and 22% respectively. Carbon sequestration supply represents 0.01% of the total demand (carbon emissions). Peri‐urban agriculture production represents 4.3% of the total food consumption. Our findings offer a new perspective on the role of nature in cities and highlight the need to implement urban sustainability policies that can help overcome metabolic deficiencies while prioritizing resource efficiency, decarbonization, and conservation/generation of green infrastructure in the city.
Prospective life cycle assessment of climate and biodiversity impacts of meat‐based and plant‐forward meals: A case study of Indonesian and German meal options
Authors: Marquardt Sandra G. , Joyce P. James , Rigarlsford Giles , Dötsch‐Klerk Mariska , van Elk Kathelijn , Doelman Jonathan , Daioglou Vassilis , Huijbregts Mark A. J. , Sim Sarah
Published: August 2024

The emerging field of prospective life cycle assessment (pLCA) offers opportunities for evaluating the environmental impacts of possible future consumption shifts. One such shift involves a transition from meat‐based to plant‐forward diets, acknowledged to mitigate environmental impacts of the food system under present day conditions. Current diets are often meat intensive (“meat‐based”), whilst “plant‐forward” diets include mainly plant‐based foods, encompassing flexitarian, vegetarian, and vegan diets. Here we illustrate the application of pLCA in a case study of meal options, implementing shared socio‐economic pathway scenarios in the LCA background system to represent future production conditions. We assess the climate footprints and land‐based biodiversity footprints of a typical meat‐based meal in Germany and Indonesia compared to a plant‐forward meal in both countries (i.e., four meals), now and in 2050. Our findings show that the plant‐forward alternative maintains a lower impact per serving in all future scenarios. At the same time, the reduction in impact for the meat‐based meals is more pronounced in future scenarios due to shifts in the agricultural system. Our findings highlight the importance of supply‐side measures to produce lower‐impact ingredients, complementing demand‐side interventions to reshape food consumption. Results are further evaluated in cultural and nutritional contexts, highlighting the practical decision‐making constraints faced by consumers. We find potential “leakage” effects in calories and nutrition when choosing a lower‐impact, plant‐forward meal. These leakage effects should be considered in future studies seeking to evaluate the environmental implications of meal substitutions in the context of broader dietary requirements.
Characterizing the gastrointestinal microbiome diversity in endangered Malayan Siamang (Symphalangus syndactylus): Insights into group composition, age variability and sex‐related patterns
Authors: Sariyati Nur Hartini , Othman Nursyuhada , Abdullah‐Fauzi Nurfatiha Akmal Fawwazah , Chan Eddie , Md‐Zain Badrul Munir , Karuppannan Kayal Vizi , Abdul‐Latiff Muhammad Abu Bakar
Published: August 2024

Background

The gut morphology of Symphalangus syndactylus exhibits an intermediate structure that aligns with its consumption of fruit and ability to supplement its diet with leaves. The Siamang relies on its gut microbiome for energy extraction, immune system development, and the synthesis of micronutrients. Gut microbiome composition may be structured based on several factors such as age, sex, and habitat. No study has yet been carried out on the gut microbiota of the Hylobatidae members in Malaysia especially S. syndactylus.

Methods

This study aims to resolve the gut microbiome composition of S. syndactylus by using a fecal sample as DNA source, adapting high‐throughput sequencing, and 16S rRNA as the targeted region.

Results

A total of 1 272 903 operational taxonomic units (OTUs) reads were assigned to 22 phyla, 139 families, and 210 genera of microbes. The {Unknown Phylum} Bacteria‐2 is the dominant phyla found across all samples. Meanwhile, {Unknown Phylum} Bacteria‐2 and Firmicutes are genera that have the highest relative abundance found in the Siamang gut.

Conclusions

This study yields nonsignificance relationship between Siamang gut microbiome composition with these three factors: group, sex, and age.
Leader support for recovery: A multi‐level approach to employee psychological detachment from work
Authors: Sonnentag Sabine , Kark Ronit , Venz Laura
Published: August 2024

This research examines the role of leaders for employee recovery. We hypothesize that leader support for recovery (empathy for recovery, respect for boundaries, and role modelling) relates positively to employees' psychological detachment from work during non‐work time that, in turn, predicts well‐being outcomes. We argue that leader support for recovery can only be effective when the leader‐member exchange (LMX) relationship quality is sufficiently high. In a series of scale‐development and scale‐validation studies, we demonstrated the construct and content validity of a new measure of leader support for recovery. We tested our hypotheses with diary data collected from 152 employees. Respect for boundaries was positively related to employees' psychological detachment from work during non‐work time at the person level. Psychological detachment from work was positively related to low emotional exhaustion and a high morning recovery state, both at the person and the day level. LMX moderated the relationship between leader support for recovery (overall measure), empathy for recovery, and respect for boundaries on the one hand and psychological detachment on the other hand, such that the relationships became non‐significant when LMX was lower. The study suggests that leaders in high‐quality relationships can contribute to employee recovery – a process that helps to maintain employee well‐being.
Evaluation of telehealth in delivering diagnostic developmental assessments for children in South Western Sydney during the COVID‐19 pandemic: Clinician and family perspectives
Authors: Vivekanandarajah Sinthu , Carr David , Hurwitz Romy , So Lydia , Raman Shanti
Published: August 2024

Aims

Children with neuro‐developmental disorders faced significant challenges in accessing services during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Telehealth has been adopted by health services globally to facilitate access to clinical services. Our aims were to evaluate the utility of the telehealth modality for providing developmental assessment services and explore enablers and barriers to using telehealth, in a culturally diverse and socioeconomically disadvantaged population in Sydney.

Methods

We reviewed telehealth developmental assessments in South Western Sydney conducted between 1 April and 30 June 2020. Data were collated on demographics; telehealth modality; diagnostic formulation; recommendations; and requested follow up. We conducted retrospective semi‐structured telephone interviews with 79 families and 11 clinicians about their telehealth experience. Thematic analysis was carried out on the open text responses.

Results

Of 205 children assessed across six sites, median age was 48 months; 45% were assessed with video and 55% with telephone only. Diagnostic formulation and therapeutic recommendations were provided for 203 (99%) children and 138 (67%) were asked to come for face‐to‐face follow‐up. The majority of families (76%) were satisfied or extremely satisfied with telehealth. Median clinician satisfaction was 3.5 out of 5, whilst clinician confidence with diagnostic formulation was 4 out of 5. Qualitative data revealed a range of barriers and enablers.

Conclusion

Telehealth was a successful modality for contributing to the assessment journey for children with neuro‐developmental disorders in our culturally, linguistically and socioeconomically diverse clinical population in the context of a pandemic lockdown. We discuss the potential for telehealth modalities in child developmental assessments beyond the pandemic.
Nirsevimab: Alleviating the burden of RSV morbidity in young children
Authors: Loe Marcus Wing Choy , Soenong Helen , Lee Evelyn , Li‐Kim‐Moy Jean , Williams Phoebe CM , Yeo Kee Thai
Published: August 2024

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is the leading cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) and hospital admissions in early childhood. Recent advancements in novel preventive therapies, including extended half‐life monoclonal antibodies and antenatal vaccination, have afforded new opportunities to significantly reduce the burden of this infection. Nirsevimab is a novel monoclonal antibody that provides sustained protection against RSV for at least 5 months among newborns and young children. It has received regulatory approval in numerous countries and is being implemented across various settings. Two pivotal Phase 3 trials (MELODY, HARMONIE) demonstrated significant reductions in RSV‐associated LRTI hospitalisations following nirsevimab administration, with treatment efficacy of 62.1% and 83.2%. Emerging real‐world data from early adopters of nirsevimab corroborates these findings. Studies from Spain, Luxembourg, France and the USA report effectiveness rates between 82% and 90% in preventing RSV‐associated hospitalisations among infants entering their first RSV season. Current implementation strategies for nirsevimab have primarily focused on seasonal administration for all infants, aligned to local RSV seasons, and often include catch‐up doses for those born before the season begins. Available cost‐effectiveness analyses indicate that while nirsevimab offers significant potential public health benefits, its adoption must carefully consider economic factors such as treatment costs, implementation strategies tailored to local viral epidemiology, and logistics for vaccine delivery. Overall, nirsevimab presents a promising opportunity to alleviate the burden of severe RSV infections in young children. However, ongoing surveillance and refinements in implementation strategies are crucial to optimise its impact and ensure sustainability across diverse health‐care settings.
The role of hyperarousal for understanding the associations between sleep problems and emotional symptoms in family caregivers of people with dementia. A network analysis approach
Authors: Jiménez‐Gonzalo Lucía , García‐Batalloso Inés , Márquez‐González María , Cabrera Isabel , Olazarán Javier , Losada‐Baltar Andrés
Published: August 2024

Caregiving for a family member with dementia is a stressful situation that has been associated with symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia. Several models have highlighted the role of hyperarousal for understanding sleep disorders; however, there is little evidence about how insomnia, depression, and anxiety are linked together. Network analysis could help to explore the mechanisms underlying the associations between these disorders. A total of 368 community‐dwelling family caregivers of a person with dementia took part in the study. The depression–anxiety–sleep symptoms network was composed of 26 items using the R package qgraph to estimate and visualise the network. The results showed that the strongest symptoms in the network were shakiness, tension, restlessness, nervousness, and restless sleep. Tension was the symptom with the most predictive power, restless sleep was the most important shortcut node in the connection between other symptoms. The central stability coefficient showed adequate indices. The strength of hyperarousal symptoms suggested a prominent role of this variable. Our results invite the hypothesis that sleep problems may trigger symptoms specific to depression via fatigue or energy loss. This study is the first to examine the network structure of the associations between the symptoms of depression, anxiety, and insomnia in a sample of informal caregivers, and to explore the role of hyperarousal in this network.
Meaning and the Commodity Form
Authors: Skotnicki Tad
Published: August 2024

Social scientists often treat the commodity form and commodity fetishism as concepts that reduce meaning to an economic base. The paper claims that this view is misguided and, furthermore, that these concepts enable us to formulate a dynamic approach to meaning in economic life. Building on recent discussions of commodity fetishism, I outline this dynamic approach to meaning and the commodity form. This approach demands attention to three issues: (1) the distinction between interpretations‐in exchange and interpretations‐of exchange; (2) how interpretations‐of exchange relate to interpretations‐in exchange; and (3) how status hierarchies can mediate this dynamic of meaning associated with the commodity form. In explaining these issues, I draw on a range of examples that illustrate their relevance to the organization of the capitalist world. The purpose is to illustrate that we can discuss meaning and the commodity form in a non‐reductive manner, and in so doing draw distinct strands of social scientific investigation into conversation.
Parasympathetic tone activity, heart rate, and grimace scale in conscious horses of 3 breeds before, during, and after nociceptive mechanical stimulation
Authors: Flores Jorge Eduardo Mendoza , Terrazas Angelica , Lara Sagahon Alma V. , Aleman Monica
Published: August 2024

Background

Parasympathetic tone activity (PTA) in response to nociceptive stimulus in conscious non‐sedated horses is unknown.

Objectives

Study PTA, heart rate (HR), and horse grimace scale (HGS) at rest and during mechanical nociceptive stimulation.

Animals

Ninety healthy young adult horses (females, males): 30 each of Friesians, Quarter Horses, and Warmbloods.

Methods

Prospective control study. The study consisted of habituation to equipment (Day 1), baseline recordings (Days 2 and 3), and nociceptive testing applying mild pressure to the metacarpus (Day 4). Parasympathetic tone, HR, and HGS were recorded simultaneously on Days 2 to 4. Each study lasted 30 minutes and was done in triplicate at 3 different time points per day.

Results

Baseline PTA was not different among breeds. It decreased in Warmbloods and Quarter Horses during placement of the stimulus device without stimulation (P < .01). A significant decrease in PTA (P < .001) occurred during nociceptive stimulus (marked in Quarter Horses, intermediate in Warmbloods, and mild in Friesians). Heart rate and HGS increased significantly (P < .001) during the stimulus in all breeds but returned to baseline poststimulation. Friesians required higher pressure (P < .05) to elicit an aversive response to the stimulus.

Conclusions

Horses' PTA, HR, and HGS change in response to a mild mechanical nociceptive stimulus with Friesians showing less variation. Stress induced a decrease in PTA in Quarter Horses and Warmbloods but not in Friesians. Friesians appeared to be more tolerant to pain based on PTA, HR, and HGS findings compared with other breeds.
Development and external validation of a model to predict multidrug‐resistant bacterial infections in patients with cirrhosis
Authors: Marciano Sebastián , Piano Salvatore , Singh Virendra , Caraceni Paolo , Maiwall Rakhi , Alessandria Carlo , Fernandez Javier , Kim Dong Joon , Kim Sung Eun , Soares Elza , Marino Mónica , Vorobioff Julio , Merli Manuela , Elkrief Laure , Vargas Victor , Krag Aleksander , Singh Shivaram , Elizondo Martín , Anders Maria M , Dirchwolf Melisa , Mendizabal Manuel , Lesmana Cosmas R. A. , Toledo Claudio , Wong Florence , Durand Francois , Gadano Adrián , Giunta Diego H , Angeli Paolo ,   the International Club of Ascites Global Study Group
Published: August 2024

With the increasing rate of infections caused by multidrug‐resistant organisms (MDRO), selecting appropriate empiric antibiotics has become challenging. We aimed to develop and externally validate a model for predicting the risk of MDRO infections in patients with cirrhosis.

Methods

We included patients with cirrhosis and bacterial infections from two prospective studies: a transcontinental study was used for model development and internal validation (n = 1302), and a study from Argentina and Uruguay was used for external validation (n = 472). All predictors were measured at the time of infection. Both culture‐positive and culture‐negative infections were included. The model was developed using logistic regression with backward stepwise predictor selection. We externally validated the optimism‐adjusted model using calibration and discrimination statistics and evaluated its clinical utility.

Results

The prevalence of MDRO infections was 19% and 22% in the development and external validation datasets, respectively. The model's predictors were sex, prior antibiotic use, type and site of infection, MELD‐Na, use of vasopressors, acute‐on‐chronic liver failure, and interaction terms. Upon external validation, the calibration slope was 77 (95% CI .48–1.05), and the area under the ROC curve was .68 (95% CI .61–.73). The application of the model significantly changed the post‐test probability of having an MDRO infection, identifying patients with nosocomial infection at very low risk (8%) and patients with community‐acquired infections at significant risk (36%).

Conclusion

This model achieved adequate performance and could be used to improve the selection of empiric antibiotics, aligning with other antibiotic stewardship program strategies.
A multi‐phase mechanical model of biochar–cement composites at the mesoscale
Authors: Li Muduo , Zhu Xiaohong , Zhang Yuying , Tsang Daniel C. W.
Published: August 2024

This study presents a five‐phase mesoscale modeling framework specifically developed to investigate crack propagation and mechanical properties of biochar–cement composites. The multi‐phase model includes porous biochar particles with precise geometric construction, sand aggregates, cement matrix, and interfacial transition zone adjunct to both the biochar particles and sand aggregates. The 3D porous biochar library was first proposed and established in this study, which could provide an external interface for describing different pore shapes, wall thicknesses, and pore areas. All the simulation results were experimentally validated using a digital image correlation. Through precise geometric modeling, the unique failure modes and timing of biochar particles within the mortar were identified. This is analogous to the “strong column–weak beam” concept, accounting for the enhanced ductility observed in the biochar–cement composites under compression test. This work can advance the geometric modeling of porous aggregates broadly and elucidate their mesoscopic failure mechanisms in cementitious materials, thus providing new insights for developing high‐ductility and lightweight cement composites.
Culicoides biting midges feeding behaviour as a key for understanding avian Haemoproteus transmission in Lithuania
Authors: Kazak Margarita , Valavičiūtė‐Pocienė Kristina , Kondrotaitė Simona , Duc Mélanie , Bukauskaitė Dovilė , Hernández‐Lara Carolina , Bernotienė Rasa , Chagas Carolina Romeiro Fernandes
Published: August 2024

Investigations of host feeding behaviour in haematophagous insects are critical to assess transmission routes of vector‐borne diseases. Understanding if a certain species has ornithophilic or mammalophilic feeding behaviour can facilitate future studies focused on pathogens transmission to and from certain host species. Culicoides Latreille (Diptera: Ceratopogonidae) are vectors of several pathogens, which include arboviruses, bacteria and parasites to a considerable diversity of vertebrate hosts. However, most of the studies focused on feeding habits target Culicoides species that could transmit the Bluetongue virus, consequently with a mammalophilic feeding behaviour, leaving aside the Culicoides species that are involved in the transmission of vector‐borne parasites to birds, such as Haemoproteus Kruse (Haemosporida: Haemoproteidae). This study aimed to investigate the source of blood meals of wild‐caught Culicoides using molecular‐based methods and to correlate our findings with the reports of Haemoproteus parasites in Culicoides species. Engorged Culicoides females were collected using ultraviolet (UV)‐light traps at seven different localities in Lithuania in 2021–2023. Biting midges were dissected, and the abdomens of engorged females were used for molecular investigation of the blood meal source. A polymerase chain reaction (PCR) protocol that amplifies a fragment of the Cytochrome B gene of vertebrates was used. Obtained sequences were compared to available information in GenBank database to confirm the source of the blood meal. In total, 258 engorged Culicoides females, representing nine different species, were analysed. The source of blood meal was identified in 29.1% of them with most of the insects having fed on birds (74.7%) and the remaining on mammals (25.3%). Culicoides segnis Campbell, Pelham‐Clinton was the only species to feed exclusively on birds; Culicoides from the Obsoletus group, C. pallidicornis Kieffer and C. punctatus Latreille were found to feed exclusively on mammals; C. festivipennis Kieffer, C. kibunensis Tokunaga and C. pictipennis Staeger had an opportunistic feeding behaviour, with the first two preferably feeding on birds. Due to their feeding behaviour and the presence of Haemoproteus parasites reported in the literature, C. festivipennis, C. kibunensis, C. pictipennis, and C. segnis play an important role in the transmission of those avian vector‐borne parasite in the wild. These Culicoides species were already confirmed as being able to support the development of several Haemoproteus species and lineages. Future studies focused on understanding the epidemiology of avian pathogens transmitted by Culicoides should target these species.
Revision of antifungal strategies definitions for invasive fungal infections (proven/probable/possible) in 461 patients with haematological malignancies (REDEFI‐SEIFEM)
Authors: Marianna Criscuolo , Matteo Bonanni , Alfonso Piciocchi , Francesca Farina , Luisa Verga , Francesco Marchesi , Claudia Basilico , Maria Ilaria Del Principe , Maria Chiara Tisi , Chiara Cattaneo , Marco Picardi , Valentina Bonuomo , Nicola Fracchiolla , Anna Candoni , Katia Perruccio , Marta Stanzani , Anna Rita Larici , Maurizio Sanguinetti , Alessandro Busca , Livio Pagano ,   SEIFEM (Sorveglianza Epidemiologica Infezioni nelle Emopatie Maligne) group
Published: August 2024

Background

Invasive fungal infections (IFI) are a relevant cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with haematological neoplasms (HMs). Since 2002, a classification of IFI based on host factors, clinical and radiological features and mycological tests was published for research purpose.

Objectives

These criteria are widely used in clinical practice to identify patients at risk for IFI. The aim of the study was to evaluate the clinical applicability of EORTC/MSG 2008 criteria for the diagnosis of IFI in daily practice.

Patients/Methods

This multicentre, non‐interventional, observational, prospective study gathered all consecutive inpatients with HMs in which an intravenous antifungal treatment was started. Exclusion criteria were a previous or concomitant transplant procedure, outpatient status and oral antifungal therapy. EORTC/MSG 2008 criteria were used to classify patients at the beginning of antifungal therapy and at 30 days. An independent board reviewed the classification of IFI given by local clinicians at T0 and T30.

Results

The highest percentage of agreement was found for possible IFI (96%), while a lower agreement was reported for proven IFI (74%), and the highest variability was observed for probable IFI (56%). At T30, the board re‐evaluation confirmed a strict agreement for possible IFI only (98%). Among 306 patients classified as possible, 156 (51%) patients showed non‐typical radiological findings and 45 (15%) patients presented host factors only.

Conclusions

In real life, the EORTC/MSG criteria can be applicable only for possible IFI. As non‐typical radiological findings are reported in possible IFI, introducing a new IFI category should be considered.
Antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody‐negative pauci‐immune glomerulonephritis in a patient with Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia
Authors: Au‐Yang Wai , Cheung Tai Yiu , Chan Hui Yiu , Cheuk Wah , Cheung Chi Yuen
Published: August 2024

Waldenstrom macroglobulinaemia (WM), the predominant subtype of lymphoplasmacytic lymphoma with bone marrow involvement and serum IgM paraprotein, is a haematological condition commonly associated with renal parenchymal involvement. However, antineutrophil cytoplasmic antibody (ANCA)‐negative pauci‐immune crescentic glomerulonephritis (PICGN) in kidney infiltrated by lymphoma is very rare, with only two cases described in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia in English literature so far. We herein report the first patient with WM developing ANCA‐negative PICGN. He was a 76‐year‐old male who presented with elevated serum globulin level and bilateral groin lymph node enlargement, subsequently diagnosed to have WM after pathologic examination of the bone marrow and groin lymph node. One month later, he was found to have acute kidney injury and proteinuria. Renal biopsy confirmed the presence of parenchymal involvement by WM accompanied by PICGN; while ANCA testing was negative. He was treated with pulse methylprednisolone followed by oral prednisolone. In addition, six courses of intravenous rituximab and oral cyclophosphamide were given. There was significant improvement in both his renal and haematological conditions. The clinical course of this case suggested that ANCA‐negative PICGN may represent a paraneoplastic syndrome and a rare manifestation of WM‐associated renal lesion. Early kidney biopsy and prompt treatment may improve the outcome of patients.
Pseudosperma brunneopilosum, a new species of Inocybaceae from West Africa
Authors: Aïgnon Hyppolite L. , Fan Yu‐Guang , Brandon Matheny P.
Published: August 2024

A new species of Pseudosperma is described based on collections recently made in Benin in West Africa. Pseudosperma brunneopilosum sp. nov. occurs in forests dominated by ectomycorrhizal Fabaceae Isoberlinia and Phyllanthaceae Uapaca trees. Phylogenetic analysis of combined ITS‐LSU‐RPB2‐TEF1 gene regions shows that P. brunneopilosum is unrelated and distinct from several recently described species of Pseudosperma also from West Africa. Complete descriptions and illustrations, including photographs and line drawings are presented.
Scavenging and social interaction of an apex avian scavenger is governed by bioregional and seasonal variation
Authors: Meisuria Niraj , Spencer Emma E. , Cairncross Rhys J. , Crowther Mathew S. , Newsome Thomas M.
Published: August 2024

Apex scavengers can perform an important ecosystem service by rapidly removing carrion, in turn regulating nutrient cycling linked to carcass decomposition. Yet, our understanding of the biotic and abiotic factors that influence rates of apex scavenging and their behaviour around carrion remains limited, in part because of the absence of replicated studies across different bioregions, habitats and seasons. Here, we examine the use of carrion by one of Australia's apex scavengers, the wedge‐tailed eagle Aquila audax, and uncover the extent and consequences of their social interactions at carrion. We applied a standardised design to monitor 120 kangaroo (Family: Macropodidae) carcasses using camera traps across contrasting bioregions (desert, forest and alpine), habitats (open and closed canopy) and seasons (warm and cool). We predicted that wedge‐tailed eagles would discover carcasses quicker in open habitats, and that intrinsic carrion value (ICV), or the desirability of carrion, would be related to dietary stress as a function of productivity and season (i.e. we expected to see increased carcass use by eagles in the less productive desert bioregion and in cooler seasons). Across all bioregions, we found that wedge‐tailed eagles discovered carcasses in open habitats 2.7 times faster than in closed habitats and 5.3 times faster in cool seasons compared with warm seasons. Scavenging was more likely to occur in open environments and was more frequent in cool seasons and in the desert bioregion. ICV largely governed social interactions; there were more aggressive encounters between wedge‐tailed eagles during cool seasons and in the desert bioregion. Our results highlight how bioregional, habitat, and seasonal variation can drive scavenging rates and social interactions between conspecific apex scavengers. Further studies considering both carrion use and corresponding behavioural interactions will enhance our understanding of how carrion contributes to shaping interactions between and within species groups as well as scavenger communities more broadly.
A retrospective analysis on the effects of climate warming on the pine processionary moth at the southern edge of its range
Authors: Bourougaaoui Asma , Robinet Christelle , Ben Jamâa Mohamed L. , Laparie Mathieu
Published: August 2024

Ectotherms are largely impacted by extreme climate events, essentially heatwaves. In Tunisia, the pine processionary moth (PPM), Thaumetopoea pityocampa, is a defoliator typically laying eggs in summer. Its geographical range is expanding northwards in Europe while retracting from southern Tunisia where summer temperatures can reach extreme heats. We explored the effects of climate change over the last 30 years on PPM at its southern range edge. We investigated variations of fecundity and causes of egg mortality over time using historical and contemporary collections of egg masses. Due to incomplete historical series, a clustering method was used to group climatically homologous sampling sites and perform allochronic analyses on clusters instead of individual localities. Our results suggest negative effects of summer heat on egg survival, down to 0% hatching rate in one site during a major heatwave. Such high hatching failures resulted partly from high egg sterility and aborted embryos, with little effects of parasitism rate, suggesting heat susceptibility during embryonic development, but our results do not allow distinguishing impeded mating success from failed egg maturation or early embryo death. Decreasing female fecundity was observed in regions where allochronic comparisons were possible, associated with a decrease in parasitism rate, while climatic variability increased. Previous studies have confirmed experimentally the thermal sensitivity of PPM early instars to temperatures observed in the present work, including one population from southern Tunisia. However, further work is required to evaluate the relative importance of warming summers among populations, since the risk of heat stress depends on the phenology of sensitive instars, and populations from the warmest areas may not necessarily be the most vulnerable to climate change if they already evolved phenological heat avoidance. In addition to heat‐induced mortality, the ultimate fitness of heat survivors should also be explored to determine potential carry‐over effects on subsequent life stages.
Simulation techniques in optometric education: Is a model eye for tonometry a valuable instruction tool?
Authors: Doorduyn Kate , Heitmar Rebekka , Coetzee Lauren
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Simulation techniques are used in healthcare education to support the development of clinical skills. The aim of this study was to investigate the perceived value of a tonometry model eye (TME) when used in teaching and learning the clinical skill of Goldmann applanation tonometry (GAT) in optometric education in the UK.

Methods

A retrospective two‐armed cross‐sectional study was conducted to investigate the perceived value of using a model eye for teaching and learning GAT in optometric education. Focus group discussion (FGD) was employed to explore the views of academic experts experienced in teaching GAT using a TME. Semi‐structured surveys were conducted to elicit the opinions of optometry students following GAT simulation training. Qualitative thematic analysis of the FGD and open‐ended survey questions was undertaken. Quantitative data based on rated student responses was assessed using Chi‐square analysis to examine differences between year‐group responses.

Results

The TME was reported to be a useful experiential tool, facilitating a safe learning environment for students to develop the technical skills required to perform GAT before moving on to real‐eye experiences. Whilst limitations of the model eye were noted, these did not diminish the value of the model eye as an instructional tool. Students reported improved confidence (86%) and would highly recommend (82%) the TME to other students.

Conclusion

The model eye for tonometry was perceived by academic tutors and optometry students to be a valuable instruction tool as part of a scaffolded process for learning GAT. Irrespective of their learning stage, students reported a range of benefits from the model eye, such as being able to make mistakes, taking repeat measurements and getting used to the equipment, all whilst not having to worry about patient safety.
Predictors of functional mitral regurgitation improvement in patients with left bundle branch block treated with left bundle branch area pacing
Authors: Miao Huazhong , Chen Zenghong , Luo Yushi , Cheng Yandi , Cooray P. L. R. Krisunika , Wu Tian , Yang Wen , Zhou Xiujuan , Shan Qijun , Jiang Zhixin
Published: August 2024

Background

Functional mitral regurgitation (FMR) and its severity are associated with adverse outcomes in heart failure patients. This study aims to analyze the predictors of FMR improvement after successful left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) in patients with LVEF < 50% and complete left bundle branch block (CLBBB).

Methods

Consecutive patients with LVEF < 50% and CLBBB who underwent successful LBBAP from July 2018 to July 2023 were retrospectively identified. Significant MR was defined as regurgitation of moderate severity or greater. Patients with significant FMR were included in the analysis. FMR improvement (FMRI) was defined as a reduction of at least one grade in regurgitation severity compared to baseline at 3 months or longer follow‐up.

Results

Among the 81 identified patients, 42 patients with significant FMR preoperatively were included. After LBBAP, QRS duration significantly shortened from 170.6 ± 18.8 ms to 114.5 ± 20.2 ms (p < .001). Significant FMR improves in approximately 76.2%, and the patients were divided into an FMRI group (n = 32) and a non‐FMRI group (n = 10). Univariate analysis showed that absence of persistent atrial fibrillation, typical CLBBB, and left atrium diameter at baseline were associated with improvement of FMR after LBBAP. Of these variables, only absence of persistent atrial fibrillation remains an independent predictor in the multivariate model (OR 12.436, p = .009).

Conclusion

LBBAP is able to improve FMR in heart failure patients who had CLBBB with LVEF < 50%. Meanwhile, the absence of persistent atrial fibrillation is an independent predictor of FMR improvement.