bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nutrition employability and graduate readiness: The Australian Working in Nutrition study
Authors: Clark Katya , Biesiekierski Jessica R. , Farrer Olivia D. , Stefoska‐Needham Anita , Beckett Emma L. , Lawlis Tanya , Mantzioris Evangeline , Swanepoel Libby
Published: March 2024

Background

Nutrition science graduates contribute to the nutrition workforce by bringing specialist knowledge and skills needed to address future food challenges. This study aims to provide a snapshot of the current employment landscape for nutrition science graduates in Australia and how well their degrees prepare them for employment.

Method

A cross‐sectional survey of Australian tertiary nutrition graduates was conducted to explore tertiary training, employment pathways and their perceived preparedness for practice.

Results

This study included a final sample of 119 graduates from 17 Australian tertiary institutions. Almost two‐thirds of respondents had completed further training. Most graduates (77%, n = 91) had worked in a food, nutrition science or health‐related role after their degree; the most frequently cited employment settings were government or public health organisations; research, not‐for‐profit or nongovernment organisations; and the food industry. Work‐integrated learning was identified as a key predictor of graduates working in a role that differed from their expectations as a student. The skill categories developed during nutrition training that were most valued in the workplace included nutrition and scientific knowledge, and professional and communication skills.

Conclusions

This study offers first insights into the current employment landscape for nutrition graduates across Australia. Findings show that current nutrition science professionals are highly qualified and prepared to navigate the evolving demands of nutrition practice. Regular review of graduate employment will inform nutrition science curriculum to enable graduates to be well equipped in the face of dynamic practice settings.
How does my partner see me? Metaperceptions of personality and couple satisfaction
Authors: Matera Camilla , Pirani Elena
Published: March 2024

This study examined the association between congruence in the two partners' perceptions and their relationship satisfaction. We considered congruence between metaperception and partner‐perception (meta‐partner) and between metaperceptions and self‐rated personality (meta‐self). The participants were 236 heterosexual couples. Each couple member reported couple satisfaction and personality traits (in terms of self‐perception, partner‐perception, and metaperception). The actor–partner interdependence model (APIM) revealed that individuals who believed to be viewed by their partner as more agreeable, conscientious, or emotionally stable than their partner saw them, were less likely to have a partner who was satisfied with the relationship. When metaperceptions of “Agreeableness” were higher than self‐perceptions, relationship satisfaction for both the actor and the partner was higher. These findings may help to guide therapeutic and clinical interventions aimed at promoting relationship satisfaction in the context of family and couple therapy.
Unmoving and uninflamed: Characterizing neuroinflammatory dysfunction in the Wistar‐Kyoto rat model of depression
Authors: Farinha‐Ferreira Miguel , Magalhães Daniela M. , Neuparth‐Sottomayor Mariana , Rafael Hugo , Miranda‐Lourenço Catarina , Sebastião Ana M.
Published: March 2024

Reductionistic research on depressive disorders has been hampered by the limitations of animal models. Recently, it has been hypothesized that neuroinflammation is a key player in depressive disorders. The Wistar‐Kyoto (WKY) rat is an often‐used animal model of depression, but no information so far exists on its neuroinflammatory profile. As such, we compared male young adult WKY rats to Wistar (WS) controls, with regard to both behavioral performance and brain levels of key neuroinflammatory markers. We first assessed anxiety‐ and depression‐like behaviors in a battery consisting of the Elevated Plus Maze (EPM), the Novelty Suppressed Feeding (NSFT), Open Field (OFT), Social Interaction (SIT), Forced Swim (FST), Sucrose Preference (SPT), and Splash tests (ST). We found that WKY rats displayed increased NSFT feeding latency, decreased OFT center zone permanence, decreased EPM open arm permanence, decreased SIT interaction time, and increased immobility in the FST. However, WKY rats also evidenced marked hypolocomotion, which is likely to confound performance in such tests. Interestingly, WKY rats performed similarly, or even above, to WS levels in the SPT and ST, in which altered locomotion is not a significant confound. In a separate cohort, we assessed prefrontal cortex (PFC), hippocampus and amygdala levels of markers of astrocytic (GFAP, S100A10) and microglial (Iba1, CD86, Ym1) activation status, as well as of three key proinflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α). There were no significant differences between strains in any of these markers, in any of the regions assessed. Overall, results highlight that behavioral data obtained with WKY rats as a model of depression must be carefully interpreted, considering the marked locomotor activity deficits displayed. Furthermore, our data suggest that, despite WKY rats replicating many depression‐associated neurobiological alterations, as shown by others, this is not the case for neuroinflammation‐related alterations, thus representing a novel limitation of this model.

image
Development of a functional outcome measure for riboflavin transporter deficiency
Authors: Fennessy Jack R. , Donlevy Gabrielle A. , McKay Marnee J. , Burns Joshua , Cornett Kayla M. D. , Menezes Manoj P.
Published: March 2024

Background and Aims

Riboflavin transporter deficiency (RTD) is a progressive inherited neuropathy of childhood onset, characterised clinically by pontobulbar palsy, sensory ataxia, sensorineural deafness, muscle weakness, optic atrophy and respiratory failure. A robust and responsive functional outcome measure is essential for future clinical trials of disease‐modifying therapies including genetic therapies. The Charcot–Marie–Tooth disease Pediatric Scale (CMTPedS) is a well‐validated outcome measure for CMT and related neuropathies, and might have utility for measuring disease progression in individuals with RTD. However, the CMTPedS requires modifications to account for phenotypic differences between children with CMT and RTD. The aim of this study was to develop a functional outcome measure based on the CMTPedS for specific use in individuals with RTD.

Methods

The CMTPedS data collected over the last 10 years in individuals with RTD attending the Peripheral Neuropathy Management Clinic at the Children's Hospital at Westmead (Sydney, Australia) were reviewed to evaluate each item within the CMTPedS. A literature review of articles published until September 2021 for functional outcome measures generated an item pool for pilot testing. The results of this pilot testing, alongside analysis of existing CMTPedS item scores in the RTD cohort, informed the modification of the CMTPedS.

Results

CMTPedS data were reviewed for eight individuals over the past 10 years. Two items were identified as requiring modification or removal and additional items of proximal strength and function needed to be considered. Six studies were identified in the literature review, and five items were selected for pilot testing. ‘Shoulder internal rotation’ and the ‘30‐s sit to stand test’ were added as proximal measures of strength and function. The composite balance item comprising nine tasks in the CMTPedS showed a ceiling effect and was replaced with the single ‘Feet apart on a line eyes open’ balance item. ‘Pinprick sensation’ was removed due to a floor effect.

Interpretation

This study provides preliminary evidence that the Riboflavin Transporter Deficiency Pediatric Scale (RTDPedS) is a functional outcome measure covering strength, upper and lower limb function, balance and mobility for individuals with RTD to assess disease severity and progression in clinical trials and cohort studies.
Higher percentage of CD34+ stem cells and elevated efficacy in androgenetic alopecia treatment observed in CGF prepared from 640 nm laser‐pretreated blood: A preliminary study
Authors: Gao Jin , Xiao Qin , Lu Yongzhou , Guo Jing , Luan Dongdong , Jia Chuanlong , Xu Qiannan , Xu Nan
Published: March 2024

Background

Concentrated growth factor (CGF) injection has proven effective in treating androgenetic alopecia (AGA). The primary mechanism of CGF in treating AGA is thought to be the CD34+ stem cells and platelets‐associated growth factors being injected into the scalp. CGF efficacy in treating AGA may rely on the activation level of these stem cells and platelets. The 640 nm laser is a United States Food and Drug Administration approved AGA treatment that activates follicle stem cells. Therefore, we hypothesize that pretreating CGF with a 640 nm laser may further activate CD34+ stem cells and platelets, thereby improving the efficacy of CGF in treating AGA.

Objective

This study aims to investigate whether 640 nm laser pretreated CGF (640CGF) has a greater effect in treating AGA than 640 nm laser non‐pretreated CGF (N640CGF) and evaluate whether 640 nm laser pretreatment changed CD34+ cell percentage.

Methods

This study enrolled 10 patients (8 male, 2 female) with AGA aged 18–60 years who received CGF injections. The 640CGF group was pretreated with a 640 nm laser at an energy density of 4 J/cm2, with a 30 cm irradiation distance for 30 min. Half of the scalp was treated with 640CGF, whereas the other half was treated with N640CGF. The injection was prepared by a doctor who did not know which blood tube had been pretreated. The treatment efficacy was evaluated using a trichoscope 1 month after injection.

Results

All 10 (100%) patients participated in the follow‐up visit, and a higher quantity of new hairs was observed on the side injected with 640CGF than N640CGF (p = 0.019). Additionally, fewer malnourished hairs were observed on the 640CGF pretreated side (p = 0.015). No serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusions

A higher percentage of CD34+ stem cells and improved efficacy in AGA treatment could be observed with CGF prepared from 640 nm laser‐pretreated blood.
Adipose stem cell‐derived exosomes promote wound healing by regulating the let‐7i‐5p/GAS7 axis
Authors: Liu Xiaosong , Wang Biao
Published: March 2024

Background

Injury to skin tissue is devastating for human health, making it imperative to devise strategies for hastening wound healing. Normal wound healing is a complex process comprising overlapping steps, including hemostasis, inflammatory response, proliferation, and matrix remodeling. This study investigated the effects of adipose stem cell‐derived exosomes (ADSC‐exos) on wound healing and the underlying mechanisms.

Methods

In vitro hydrogen peroxide (H2O2)‐treated human keratinocyte (HaCaT) cell lines and in vivo animal wound models were established for this purpose. The cell migration was assessed using transwell and wound healing assays, while exosome biomarker expressions were studied using western blot. Moreover, adipose stem cells were identified using flow cytometry, alizarin red S and oil red O staining, and transmission electron microscopy.

Results

Results indicated that H2O2 treatment inhibited the cell viability and migration of HaCaT cells while being promoted by ADSC‐exos. Mechanistic investigations revealed that microRNA‐let‐7i‐5p (let‐7i‐5p) in ADSC‐exos was carried into the HaCaT cells, inhibiting the expression of growth arrest‐specific‐7 (GAS7). Rescue experiments further verified these results, which indicated that GAS7 overexpression reversed the effect of let‐7i‐5p on the viability and migration of HaCaT cells, suggesting ADSC‐exos promoted wound healing via the let‐7i‐5p/GAS7 axis.

Conclusion

Adipose stem cell‐derived‐exos enhanced the viability and migration of HaCaT via carrying let‐7i‐5p and targeting GAS7, ultimately promoting wound healing in rats.
Snail extract for skin: A review of uses, projections, and limitations
Authors: Singh Nupur , Brown Angela N. , Gold Michael H.
Published: March 2024

Background

Snail mucin is becoming increasingly popular for its wide range of ingredients and potential benefits. Snail extract's widespread appearance in cosmetic formulations encourages an investigation into the medical and cosmetic benefits.

Aims

This study aims to explore current literature on the variety of snail mucin applications. Specifically, we present a review of the uses, global market estimates and projects, and limitations to snail mucin.

Methods

A literature search was conducted on PubMed reviewing snail mucin and their application in medical and dermatologic fields examining their uses. Economic reports were also investigated for Global Market estimates.

Results

The therapeutic use of snail mucin in medical fields has been studied as antimicrobial agents, drug delivery vehicles, antitumor agents, wound healing agents, and biomaterial coatings among others. Additionally, the use in cosmetic fields includes antiaging, hydrating, anti‐acne, scarring, and hyperpigmentation treatments. It is important to highlight that most studies conducted were preclinical or small clinical studies, stressing the need for additional large‐scale clinical trials to support these claims. Investigations into the global market found estimates ranging from $457 million to $1.2 billion with upward projections in the upcoming decade. Limitations include ethical habitats for collection, allergy investigation, and missing clinical studies.

Conclusions

The findings presented here emphasize the expanding uses of snail mucin and its ingredients alongside a growing market cosmetic industry should consider. We also emphasize the need for appropriate clinical trials into the stated benefits of snail mucin to ensure consumer safety and ethical extraction of mucin.
Acting impulsively when “upset”: Examining associations among negative urgency, undifferentiated negative affect, and impulsivity using momentary and experimental methods
Authors: Racine Sarah E. , Bicaker Ege , Trolio Vittoria , Lane Sean P.
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Negative urgency is a personality pathway toward impulsive behavior that increases risk for transdiagnostic psychopathology. Limited research supports the core tenant of urgency theory, that is, that individuals with high trait negative urgency act more impulsive when experiencing increased negative emotion. We hypothesized that it may not be negative emotion intensity, but difficulty in differentiating among negative emotions, that prompts impulsive behavior among individuals with elevated negative urgency.

Methods

We tested this hypothesis in 200 undergraduates using both ecological momentary assessment (measured momentary undifferentiated negative affect and impulsivity) and experimental methods (manipulated emotion differentiation and measured behavioral impulsivity).

Results

Momentary undifferentiated negative affect predicted impulsivity in the specific domains of work/school and exercise, but interactions between momentary undifferentiated negative affect and negative urgency were not supported. Manipulated emotion differentiation did not impact behavioral impulsivity regardless of negative urgency scores.

Conclusion

Inconsistent with theory, the impulsive behavior of individuals with negative urgency may not be conditional on elevated or undifferentiated negative affect.
Pharmacokinetic report: Pharmacokinetics of a single oral dose of gabapentin in goats (Capra hircus)
Authors: Kleinhenz Michael D. , Davis Darian , Weeder Mikaela M. , Leslie Alyssa , Reppert Emily J. , Kompalage Kushan , Tucker Ryan , Coetzee Johann F.
Published: March 2024

Gabapentin is used in goats to treat chronic pain associated with lameness. However, pharmacokinetic data and clinical effectiveness trials are lacking. The objective of the study was to describe the pharmacokinetics of gabapentin in goats following a single oral dose. Six Spanish‐crossbred goats were enrolled. Each goat was administered gabapentin at a target dose of 15 mg/kg per os. Serial blood samples were collected out to 60 h post‐gabapentin administration for plasma gabapentin concentration determination. Plasma samples were analyzed for gabapentin concentration using ultra‐high‐pressure liquid chromatography coupled with mass spectroscopy. Individual animal pharmacokinetic outcomes were determined using non‐compartmental analysis. Gabapentin was detectable in the plasma of all goats at 60 h post‐administration. The mean (±SD) Cmax was 2.01 ± 0.62 μg/mL which occurred at 8.47 ± 1.9 h. The mean terminal half‐life (T1/2) and mean resident time were determined to be 8.52 ± 1.8 and 18.7 ± 4.0 h, respectively. This study indicates gabapentin is absorbed from the gastrointestinal tract of goats. Further research is needed to determine an optimal dose for clinical efficacy in goats.
A review of bovine tuberculosis transmission risk in European wildlife communities
Authors: Justus William , Valle Simon , Barton Owain , Gresham Amy , Shannon Graeme
Published: March 2024

Understanding how disease moves through wildlife communities is essential to managing outbreaks of zoonotic diseases across the globe. Bovine tuberculosis is a disease caused by the bacterium Mycobacterium bovis that can threaten domestic and wildlife species. The mechanism by which Mycobacterium bovis is spread between species is still poorly understood. Previous reviews are limited in the breadth of species considered and are primarily concerned with transmission from wildlife to domestic species.

We conducted a review and analysis of Mycobacterium bovis prevalence rates in European wildlife species to identify species of concern for the transmission of bovine tuberculosis in a wildlife community. We subsequently conducted a narrative review of these species assessing the risk of Mycobacterium bovis transmission in a wildlife community based on available literature.

We calculated weighted mean disease prevalence rates to be highest in fallow deer (Dama dama, 20%), Eurasian badgers (Meles meles, 11%), wild boar (Sus scrofa, 9%) and red foxes (Vulpes vulpes, 4%). We considered these species to be of particular concern for the transmission of Mycobacterium bovis and selected them as the focus of our narrative review and risk assessment. Our risk assessment considered disease pathology, spatiotemporal activity patterns and animal behaviour as factors affecting the likelihood of Mycobacterium bovis transmission between wildlife species.

We found that prior research has principally focused on a few individual species, but that Mycobacterium bovis transmission through a wildlife community is likely more complex. We determined that disease transmission between multiple species may compound the severity of an outbreak of bovine tuberculosis. Broad, multi‐species sampling campaigns and standardised Mycobacterium bovis testing protocols should be implemented in future studies. We also determined that an in‐depth analysis of spatiotemporal overlap between species was needed to better assess the risk of transmission between wildlife species.
Review of small cat ecology and status within India
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Kathan , Banerjee Kausik , Vittoria Mazzamuto Maria , Koley Suman , Koprowski John L. , Qureshi Qamar , Jhala Yadvendradev
Published: March 2024

Small felids play pivotal roles in India's ecosystems, regulating prey populations, facilitating nutrient transfer, and safeguarding critical habitats. Despite their ecological significance, these species receive inadequate conservation attention, contrasting sharply with the focus on larger carnivores. Our review assesses the conservation status of nine native Indian small felids, aiming to consolidate data for improved species conservation and to draw connections with global small carnivore conservation efforts. Over the last 50 years, data scarcity has impeded comprehensive understanding, hindering the assessment of crucial ecological dynamics.

We delve into the factors influencing the distribution and abundance of small cats across India, identifying climate, human disturbances, the presence of large carnivores, topography, and vegetation cover as influential determinants. Notably, trade records reveal a decline in small wild felid trade since 1997, suggesting potentially positive outcomes from enhanced law‐enforcement measures.

Highlighting the necessity of robust ecological data, particularly pertaining to demographic parameters, prey–predator relationships, and responses to human‐induced habitat alterations, we advocate for integrating these insights into conservation strategies. We stress the urgency of collaborative efforts supported by unwavering political commitment and sustained financial backing to ensure the successful conservation of small felids globally.

This review underscores the imperative of filling knowledge gaps, integrating ecological findings into conservation frameworks, and fostering international collaborations to preserve the crucial ecological roles of small felids in terrestrial ecosystems worldwide.
Thermal contraction coordination behavior between unbound aggregate layer and asphalt mixture overlay based on the finite difference and discrete element coupling method
Authors: Wan Tongtong , Wang Hainian , Yang Xu , Chen Yu , Li Lian , Diab Aboelkasim
Published: March 2024

The constraint action of the unbound aggregate layer underneath plays an important role in affecting the temperature strains in the top asphalt layer. The focus of the present paper is to investigate the interactive thermal contraction mechanisms between the asphalt mixture and granular base layers to offer a new perspective in promoting the understanding of the thermal cracking disease. In this paper, both experiments and simulations were conducted for the thermal contraction tests. A novel numerical modeling of virtual composite structures was proposed using wall‐zone coupling operation based on the finite difference and discrete element coupling method. The experimental composite structures containing three types of asphalt mixture overlays and five types of unbound aggregate base layers were developed for verification. The thermal contraction and restraint mechanism were revealed from both macro and microscopic scales. The proposed numerical modeling shows a 94% high accuracy. The particle displacement vector and contact force chain could explain the thermal contraction behavior of composite structures. Smaller particle motion displacement or stronger contact force chain result in a higher restraint strain of the asphalt overlay. The thermal contraction behavior can be coordinated through the compaction and loosening of unbound aggregates. The material parameters and cooling temperature differences in the asphalt overlay have slight effects on the constraint action of a base layer, while the gradation and mechanical parameters of the unbound aggregate layer show significant impaction. The parameters, cohesion C and friction angle φ, show a quadratic function with the restraint coefficient. This work has significant guidance on the selection of pavement structure and materials to improve the thermal cracking problem and lay the basis for the mechanical theoretical calculation to predict thermal cracking.
Augmented reality‐based method for road maintenance operators in human–robot collaborative interventions
Authors: Bavelos A. C. , Anastasiou E. , Dimitropoulos N. , Oikonomou G. , Makris S.
Published: March 2024

Road maintenance operators often work in dangerous environments and are in need of a support system to enhance their safety and efficiency. Augmented reality (AR) has proven to be useful in providing support to operators in various industrial sectors. However, the vast majority of the existing applications focus mainly on static, controlled environments, such as industrial shopfloors, although the dynamic flow of information that AR can provide could be very valuable to unstructured, dynamic environments. This paper presents a novel AR—based methodology for human–robot collaboration, real‐time instructions, and support for road maintenance operations, aiming to enhance operator safety and efficiency. A robot operating system‐based architecture is exploited for the communication of the modules. The methodology is tested in a laboratory environment, and the results validate the hypothesized enhancement of road operators. In the future, the application will be validated on real interventions in highways.
Cuticular extracts induce aggregation in head lice
Authors: Galassi Federico Gabriel , Picollo Maria Ines , González‐Audino Paola
Published: March 2024

The human head lice Pediculus humanus capitis (De Geer) (Phthiraptera: Pediculidae) are strict, obligate human ectoparasites that spends their entire life cycle in the host and cause skin irritation and derived infections. Despite the health‐related importance, few studies have evaluated the chemical communication among these insects. Here, we evaluate the response of lice of both sexes to cuticular extracts using two solvents of different polarity (hexane and methanol). Cuticular extracts that elicited an attraction response towards head lice were analysed by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS) to determine the cuticular lipid profile. Both lice sexes were attracted to the hexane extracts but not the methanol extracts, suggesting the non‐polarity of the compounds present in the cuticle. Chemical analyses of hexane extracts from males and females showed high similarity in major compounds. This study provides the first evidence that lice respond to cuticle extracts, which may be important to understand aggregation behaviour.
Incidence and factors associated with dysphagia in intensive care unit patients 24 h after extubation
Authors: Luo Xuantian , Lin Yeqing , Mo Hongping , Zhang Lifeng
Published: March 2024

Background

Post‐extubation dysphagia deserves attention because it places patients at risk following extubation, especially critically ill patients in intensive care unit. However, there are limited studies of post‐extubation dysphagia in the early stages after extubation.

Aim

To investigate the incidence and factors associated with post‐extubation dysphagia among patients in intensive care unit within 24 h of extubation.

Study Design

A prospective descriptive study was carried out with 173 adult patients in intensive care unit with tracheal extubation at a tertiary hospital in Guangzhou, China. The Gugging Swallowing Screen was used to evaluate the swallowing function of patients 1, 4 and 24 h after extubation. Demographic and clinical data were retrieved from medical records.

Results

The incidence of post‐extubation dysphagia in patients within 1, 4 and 24 h after extubation was 86.71% (n = 150), 63.01% (n = 109) and 43.35% (n = 75), respectively. The risk factors included older age (OR = 1.057, 95%CI [1.039, 1.072], p < .001), cardiovascular disease (OR = 0.098, 95%CI [0.082, 0.127], p = .012), thyroid dysfunction (OR = 5.042, 95%CI [1.527, 13.684], p < .001), non‐post‐operative admission (OR = 3.186, 95%CI [1.142, 14.422], p = .036), mechanical ventilation duration >48 h (OR = 3.558, 95%CI [1.217, 10.385], p = .020), intubation duration >24 h (OR = 0.533, 95%CI [0.278, 0.898], p = .048) and intubation model size ≤7 (OR = 0.327, 95%CI [0.158, 0.788], p < .01).

Conclusions

This study revealed a high incidence of post‐extubation dysphagia in critical patients in the 24 h after extubation, with the incidence decreasing over time. Screening of early post‐extubation dysphagia after extubation is needed, but the specific evaluation time point requires further investigation. Patients with older age, cerebrovascular disease, thyroid dysfunction, post‐operative admission, longer mechanical ventilation time, thicker intubation models and longer intubation time have a higher risk of the occurrence of post‐extubation dysphagia.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

The incidence of post‐extubation dysphagia is very high in the early stage. Within 24 h after extubation, the patient's swallowing function should be actively evaluated, and the occurrence of aspiration should be vigilant. Patients with older age, cerebrovascular disease, thyroid dysfunction, post‐operative admission, longer mechanical ventilation time, thicker intubation models and longer intubation time should receive more attention.
Excavating the fossil record for evidence of leaf mining
Authors: McLoughlin Stephen , Santos Artai A.
Published: March 2024

This article is a Commentary on Xiao et al. (2024), 242: 2803–2816.
The optimal slow pathway ablation site in atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia cases with an inferiorly located His bundle
Authors: Takizawa Ryoya , Nakatani Yosuke , Take Yutaka , Kimura Kohki , Haraguchi Yumiko , Sasaki Wataru , Kishi Shohei , Yoshimura Shingo , Sasaki Takehito , Goto Koji , Miki Yuko , Kaseno Kenichi , Nakamura Kohki , Naito Shigeto
Published: March 2024

Introduction

The optimal slow pathway (SP) ablation site in cases with an inferiorly located His bundle (HIS) remains unclear.

Methods and Results

In 45 patients with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia, the relationship between the HIS location and successful SP ablation site was assessed in electroanatomical maps. We assessed the location of the SP ablation site relative to the bottom of the coronary sinus ostium in the superior‐to‐inferior (SPSI), anterior‐to‐posterior (SPAP), and right‐to‐left (SPRL) directions. The HIS location was assessed in the same manner. The HIS location in the superior‐to‐inferior direction (HISSI), SPSI, SPAP, and SPRL were 17.7 ± 6.4, 1.7 ± 6.4, 13.6 ± 12.3, and −1.0 ± 13.0 mm, respectively. The HISSI was positively correlated with SPSI (R2 = 0.62; P < .01) and SPAP (R2 = 0.22; P < .01), whereas it was not correlated with SPRL (R2 = 0.01; P = .65). The distance between the HIS and SP ablation site was 17.7 ± 6.4 mm and was not affected by the location of HIS. The ratio of the amplitudes of atrial and ventricular potential recorded at the SP ablation site did not differ between the high HIS group (HISSI ≥ 13 mm) and low HIS group (HISSI < 13 mm) (0.10 ± 0.06 vs. 0.10 ± 0.06; P = .38).

Conclusion

In cases with an inferiorly located HIS, SP ablation should be performed at a lower and more posterior site than in typical cases.
The mediating role of loneliness in the effect of physical activity barriers on quality of life
Authors: DurmuŞ Sarıkahya Selma , Terzi Amine , Kanbay Yalçın , Çınar Özbay Sevil , Gelin Dilek
Published: March 2024

Background

This study aims to examine the mediating role of loneliness in the effect of physical activity barriers on quality of life.

Methods

The sample of the study consisted of 374 people over the age of 65 who applied to a hospital. The data collection tools used in the study are ‘Personal Information Form’, ‘Physical Activity Barriers Questionnaire’ ‘World Health Organization Quality of Life Instrument‐Older Adults Module’ and ‘Loneliness Scale for the Elderly’. The mediating effect analysis was conducted through the ‘Process Macro’ developed by Hayes.

Results

According to the obtained results, loneliness mediates the relationship between physical activity barriers and quality of life. Individuals with high levels of loneliness and physical activity barriers have lower levels of quality of life. When the results of the regression analysis indicating the mediating effect were analyzed, it was determined that the effect of physical activity barriers on quality of life were negative and significant. As the level of physical activity barriers increases, the level of quality of life decreases.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it was determined that loneliness plays a mediating role in the relationship between physical activity barriers and the level of quality of life. The study results suggest that adopting a physically active lifestyle is important to reduce adverse health outcomes in the elderly.
Reconnecting a stream channel to its floodplain: implications for benthic diatoms and macroinvertebrate trophic structure
Authors: Edwards Patrick M. , Popp Nicole C. , Pan Yangdong , Weilhoefer Christine L. , Peterman Aspen B. , Mork Lauren A. , Johnson Matthew F. , Morgan Clark R. , Colley Megan , Thorne Colin R. , Popp Brian N.
Published: March 2024

Streams systems draining upland landscapes provide valuable ecosystem services, but they are vulnerable to incision and channelization caused by anthropogenic disturbance. Restoring a degraded stream to its pre‐disturbance condition by reconnecting the channel to its historical floodplain aims to recover lost hydro‐morphological processes and functions. Seeking evidence to indicate whether that aim is met in practice, we examined diatoms and the stream macroinvertebrate trophic structures in three reaches of Whychus Creek, Oregon, United States. Two reaches were reconnected to their pre‐disturbance floodplains in 2012 and 2016. The third, control reach, was not restored and was selected to represent the degraded stream condition prior to restoration. Ordinations showed that benthic diatom species composition shifted from the control reach to the restored reaches. Compared to the control reach, reconnection decreased the percentages of diatoms with nitrogen (N)‐fixing cyanobacterial endosymbionts in the 2012 restored reach and decreased diatoms tolerant to low N conditions in both the restored reaches. δ15N values in both stream macroinvertebrates and tree leaves in the riparian zone were higher in the restored reaches. These findings suggest that floodplain reconnection may modify hydro‐morphological processes and ecosystem functions in ways that enhance organic matter retention and hyporheic exchange, resulting in increased nutrient availability, improved nutrient cycling, and greater primary productivity. More generally, our results suggest that characterizing diatom species composition and trophic interactions using stable isotopes provides the basis for identifying and evaluating the beneficial effects of stream restoration on ecosystem functions and the food‐web.
Ethnicity on the table: A content analysis of online reviews for Syracuse's cuisines
Authors: Koytak Huseyin Zeyd
Published: March 2024

This study examines the influence of race, ethnicity, and immigration on dining experiences through the lens of online customer reviews in Syracuse, New York. Using advanced computational techniques, it explores the nuances of food consumption patterns and their connection to interactions and relationships both within and between migrant and non‐migrant communities. The analysis encompasses reviews of 237 restaurants representing eight distinct types of cuisine, revealing a contrast between themes of authenticity in immigrant cuisine and familiarity in mainstream options. This highlights the intricacies of the “food social space” in American culture. Additionally, the study investigates cross‐cuisine visitation patterns, uncovering specific preferences across ethnic restaurants and offering new perspectives on theories of cultural omnivory and social stratification. This research marks a significant contribution to sociological studies in the age of big data, shedding light on how dining experiences are framed across different cuisines and the wider implications for restaurateurs and urban communities. Future research could extend to comparing reviews from diverse cities and contrasting online reviews with traditional restaurant critiques, thereby deepening the understanding of the food industry's dynamics and the complexities of diverse urban communities.
Some implications of again‐modification for the syntax of English particle verb constructions
Authors: Haddican Bill
Published: March 2024

This paper examines the way in which scope‐taking of again interacts with word order in the English particle verb alternation. Small‐clause approaches to the particle verb alternation differ from most competing approaches in taking both verb‐particle‐object and verb‐object‐particle orders to contain a result state‐denoting small clause. An expectation of this approach on a structural approach to again ambiguity is that both orders should admit restitutive again readings. Results from a controlled judgment survey of 73 North American English speakers bear out this prediction.
Perceived and actual value of Student‐led Objective Structured Clinical Examinations
Authors: Stretton Brandon , Montagu Adam , Kunnel Aline , Louise Jenni , Behrendt Nathan , Kovoor Joshua , Bacchi Stephen , Thomas Josephine , Davies Ellen
Published: March 2024

Introduction

Student‐led Objective Structured Clinical Examinations (OSCEs) provide formative learning opportunities prior to Faculty‐led OSCEs. It is important to undertake quality assurance measurements of peer‐led assessments because, if they are found to be unreliable and invalid, they may have detrimental impacts. The objectives of this study were to explore and evaluate Student‐led OSCEs hosted by fifth‐year medical students.

Methods

Student‐led OSCE results were analysed to examine reliability (Cronbach's alpha). The relationship between Student‐led and Faculty‐led OSCEs was evaluated using linear regression. Qualitative data were acquired by survey and semi‐structured interviews and were analysed using an inductive content analysis approach.

Results

In total, 85 (94%) of 91 eligible students consented to study participation. Student‐led OSCEs had a low‐moderate reliability [Cronbach alpha = 0.47 (primary care) and 0.61 (human reproduction/paediatrics) (HRH)]. A statistically significant, positive relationship between Student‐led and Faculty‐led OSCE results was observed. Faculty‐led OSCE grades increased by 0.49 (95% CI: 0.18, 0.80) to 1.09 (95% CI: 0.67, 1.52), for each percentage increase in Student‐led OSCE result. Student‐led OSCE participants highly valued the authentic peer‐assessed experience. Reported benefits included a reduction of perceived stress and anxiety prior to Faculty‐led OSCEs, recognition of learning gaps, contribution to overall clinical competency and facilitation of collaboration between peers.

Discussion

Student‐led OSCEs are moderately reliable and can predict Faculty‐led OSCE performance. This form of near‐peer assessment encourages the metacognitive process of reflective practice and can be effectively implemented to direct further study. Faculties should collaborate with their student bodies to facilitate Student‐led OSCEs and offer assistance to improve the quality, and benefits, of these endeavours.
Atypical pneumonia testing in transplant recipients
Authors: Feller Fionna , Trubin Paul , Malinis Maricar , Vogel Joshua S. , Merwede Jacob , Peaper David R. , Azar Marwan M.
Published: March 2024

Background

The incidence of atypical pneumonia among immunocompromised patients is not well characterized. Establishing a diagnosis of atypical pneumonia is challenging as positive tests must be carefully interpreted. We aimed to assess the test positivity rate and incidence of atypical pneumonia in transplant recipients.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted at the Yale New Haven Health System in Connecticut. Adults with solid organ transplant, hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT), or chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell, who underwent testing for atypical pathogens of pneumonia (Legionella pneumophilia, Mycoplasma pneumoniae, Chlamydia pneumoniae, and Bordetella pertussis) between January 2016 and August 2022 were included. Positive results were adjudicated in a clinical context using pre‐defined criteria. A cost analysis of diagnostic testing was performed.

Results

Note that, 1021 unique tests for atypical pathogens of pneumonia were performed among 481 transplant recipients. The testing positivity rate was 0.7% (n = 7). After clinical adjudication, there were three cases of proven Legionella and one case of possible Mycoplasma infection. All cases of legionellosis were in transplant recipients within 1‐year post‐transplantation with recently augmented immunosuppression and lymphopenia. The possible case of Mycoplasma infection was in an HSCT recipient with augmented immunosuppression. The cost of all tests ordered was $50,797.73.

Conclusion

The positivity rate of tests for atypical pneumonia was very low in this transplant cohort. An algorithmic approach that targets testing for those with compatible host, clinical, radiographic, and epidemiologic factors, and provides guidance on test selection and test interpretation, may improve the diagnostic yield and lead to substantial cost savings.

image
Biogeography, speciation and niche evolution of doraditos (Aves: Pseudocolopteryx)
Authors: Jordan Emilio A. , Areta Juan I.
Published: March 2024

Ecological and geographical factors shape the current distribution of species. Analysing their interplay in a phylogenetic framework is key to understand the historical processes that have shaped the evolution of a group. Here, we modelled the ecological niches and geographic distributions of the five species of doraditos (Pseudocolopteryx spp.) to study their biogeographic histories, niche evolution and speciation process in a phylogenetic framework. Our potential distribution models uncovered novel range‐wide distributional patterns and seasonal movements in the doraditos, where four species are migratory with distinct breeding and non‐breeding distributions, and one (P. sclateri) exhibits a complex spatiotemporal distribution indicating nomadism. Ecological niche pairwise comparisons showed that none of the doraditos have equivalent niches and that niche differences are due to species‐specific habitat preferences. Phylogenetically weighted geographical and ecological analyses showed patterns of allopatric speciation and niche lability in the evolution of doraditos. The divergence of P. sclateri seems tied to its tropical‐to‐temperate wetland specialization. The montane P. acutipennis expanded to human‐modified lowlands following speciation, highlighting the need to control for post‐speciational changes in ecological niche comparisons as done here. In turn, P. dinelliana, P. citreola and P. flaviventris showed essentially allopatric breeding distributions, as a product of environmentally mediated divergence during their speciation processes. The distribution and migration data of the recently diverged cryptic sister species P. citreola and P. flaviventris are consistent with two possible speciation scenarios: peripatric speciation and migration dosing speciation.
Low resting metabolic rate and increased hunger due to β-MSH and β-endorphin deletion in a canine model
Authors: Dittmann Marie T. , Lakatos Gabriella , Wainwright Jodie F. , Mokrosinski Jacek , Cross Eloise , Farooqi I. Sadaf , Wallis Natalie J. , Halsey Lewis G. , Wilson Rory , O’Rahilly Stephen , Yeo Giles S.H. , Raffan Eleanor
Published: March 2024

Mutations that perturb leptin-melanocortin signaling are known to cause hyperphagia and obesity, but energy expenditure has not been well studied outside rodents. We report on a common canine mutation in pro-opiomelanocortin (
POMC
), which prevents production of β–melanocyte-stimulating hormone (β-MSH) and β-endorphin but not α-MSH; humans, similar to dogs, produce α-MSH and β-MSH from the
POMC
propeptide, but rodents produce only α-MSH. We show that energy expenditure is markedly lower in affected dogs, which also have increased motivational salience in response to a food cue, indicating increased wanting or hunger. There was no difference in satiety at a modified ad libitum meal or in their hedonic response to food, nor disruption of adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) or thyroid axes. In vitro, we show that β-MSH signals comparably to α-MSH at melanocortin receptors. These data implicate β-MSH and β-endorphin as important in determining hunger and moderating energy expenditure and suggest that this role is independent of the presence of α-MSH.
Helicobacter pylori cheV1
mutants recover semisolid agar migration due to loss of a previously uncharacterized Type IV filament membrane alignment complex homolog
Authors: Sagoo Jashwin , Abedrabbo Samar , Liu Xiaolin , Ottemann Karen M.
Published: March 2024

The bacterial chemotaxis system is a well-understood signaling pathway that promotes bacterial success. Chemotaxis systems comprise chemoreceptors and the CheA kinase, linked by CheW or CheV scaffold proteins. Scaffold proteins provide connections between chemoreceptors and CheA and also between chemoreceptors to create macromolecular arrays. Chemotaxis is required for host colonization by many microbes, including the stomach pathogen
Helicobacter pylori
. This bacterium builds chemoreceptor–CheA contacts with two distinct scaffold proteins, CheW and CheV1.
H. pylori cheW
or
cheV1
deletion mutants both lose chemoreceptor array formation, but show differing semisolid agar chemotaxis assay behaviors: ∆
cheW
mutants exhibit total migration failure, whereas ∆
cheV1::cat
mutants display a 50% reduction. On investigating these varied responses, we found that both mutants initially struggle with migration. However, over time, ∆
cheV1::cat
mutants develop a stable, enhanced migration capability, termed “migration-able” (Mig
+
). Whole-genome sequencing analysis of four distinct ∆
cheV1::cat
Mig
+
strains identified single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs
)
in
hpg27_252 (hp0273
) that were predicted to truncate the encoded protein. Computational analysis of the
hpg27_252
-encoded protein revealed it encoded a hypothetical protein that was a remote homolog of the PilO Type IV filament membrane alignment complex protein. Although
H. pylori
lacks Type IV filaments, our analysis showed it retains an operon of genes for homologs of PilO, PilN, and PilM. Deleting
hpg27_252
in the ∆
cheV1::cat
or wild type strain resulted in enhanced migration in semisolid agar. Our study thus reveals that while
cheV1
mutants initially have significant migration defects, they can recover the migration ability through genetic suppressors, highlighting a complex regulatory mechanism in bacterial migration.

IMPORTANCE

Chemotactic motility, present in over half of bacteria, depends on chemotaxis signaling systems comprising receptors, kinases, and scaffold proteins. In
Helicobacter pylori
, a stomach pathogen, chemotaxis is crucial for colonization, with CheV1 and CheW as key scaffold proteins. While both scaffolds are essential for building chemoreceptor complexes, their roles vary in other assays. Our research reexamines
cheV1
mutants’ behavior in semisolid agar, a standard chemotaxis test. Initially,
cheV1
mutants exhibited defects similar to those of
cheW
mutants, but they evolved genetic suppressors that enhanced migration. These suppressors involve mutations in a previously uncharacterized gene, unknown in motility behavior. Our findings highlight the significant chemotaxis defects in
cheV1
mutants and identify new elements influencing bacterial motility.
Fifteen-minute consultation: Management of mammalian bites in children—from local wound care to prophylactic antibiotics
Authors: Schneider Anais Lucile , Ritter Schenk Céline , Zimmermann Petra
Published: March 2024

Animal and human bites are a common reason for emergency consultation, especially in children. The most common complication of bite wounds is local infection. Systemic infections are much rarer. The key in reducing the risk of infection after a mammalian bite is local wound management with either primary or delayed closure. The benefit of administering prophylactic antibiotics is controversial.

In this review, we provide a summary of the current evidence for the management of mammalian bites in children, including recommendations for appropriate investigations, wound management, administration of prophylactic and therapeutic antibiotics and the prevention of systemic infections.