bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Working group summary of the 2023 full update of the Finnish national guidelines for paediatric lower respiratory tract infections
Authors: Backman Katri , Helminen Merja , Kekäläinen Eliisa , Mikkola Ilona , Nieminen Tea , Nuolivirta Kirsi , Peltola Ville , Seuri Raija , Walle Satu‐Maaria , Ruuska‐Loewald Terhi
Published: November 2024

Aim

The first evidence‐based Finnish guidelines for paediatric lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) were published in 2014 and completely updated in 2023. This paper, by the interdisciplinary working group that developed the 2023 guidelines, summarises the main recommendations.

Methods

The 2023 guidelines were produced after a systematic review. Strong evidence was at least two separate, high‐quality studies, moderate evidence was at least one high‐quality study and weak evidence was at least one satisfactory study. The authors have now summarised the key points.

Results

There was strong evidence that antitussives and beta‐sympathomimetics were not effective for bronchitis‐related cough and that laryngitis should be treated with oral corticosteroids, with adrenaline inhalations added in severe cases. Also, that amoxicillin for 5 days provided sufficient treatment for paediatric community‐acquired pneumonia and that children with apparent viral pneumonia could be observed without antimicrobial therapy. There was moderate evidence that corticosteroids or inhaled agents were not effective for bronchiolitis and that administering salbutamol with a holding chamber could relieve symptoms of wheezing bronchitis. Also, pertussis should be considered for unvaccinated infants with coughs.

Conclusion

The 2023 guidelines aim to improve acute evidence‐based treatment of LRTIs, through appropriate antibiotics, inhaled drugs, corticosteroids, radiology and laboratory testing.
Recent advances in noncoding RNA modifications of gastrointestinal cancer
Authors: Hara Tomoaki , Meng Sikun , Arao Yasuko , Saito Yoshiko , Inoue Kana , Rennie Sarah , Ofusa Ken , Doki Yuichiro , Eguchi Hidetoshi , Kitagawa Toru , Ishii Hideshi
Published: November 2024

Elucidating the mechanisms underlying cancer development and proliferation is important for the development of therapeutic methods for the complete cure of cancer. In particular, the identification of diagnostic markers for early detection and new therapeutic strategies for refractory gastrointestinal cancers are needed. Various abnormal phenomena occur in cancer cells, such as functional changes of proteins, led by genomic mutations, and changes in gene expression due to dysregulation of epigenetic regulation. This is no exception for noncoding RNA (ncRNA), which do not encode proteins. Recent reports have revealed that microRNA (miRNA), long noncoding RNA (lncRNA), and circular RNA (circRNA) are deeply involved in cancer progression. These ncRNAs have attracted attention as gene expression regulatory molecules. Recent advances in technology have made it possible not only to read DNA and RNA sequences but also to study the modification state of each base. In particular, comprehensive analysis of N6‐methyladenosine (m6A) has been performed by many research groups, with multiple studies reporting that m6A modifications of specific genes are associated with cancer progression. Based on the above, this review examines how ncRNA modifications are related to cancer progression in gastrointestinal cancers such as colorectal and pancreatic cancer. We also discuss enzyme inhibitors that have been reported to have drug discovery potential targeting m6A modifications. By utilizing the new perspective of ncRNA modification, we may be able to accumulate knowledge on the molecular biology of cancer and contribute to human health through diagnosis and treatment.
Adiponectin as a biomarker in liver cirrhosis—A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ismaiel Abdulrahman , Ciornolutchii Vera , Herrera Thelva Esposito , Ismaiel Mohamed , Leucuta Daniel‐Corneliu , Popa Stefan‐Lucian , Dumitrascu Dan L.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Adiponectin, a key adipokine, shows promise as a non‐invasive biomarker for liver cirrhosis by reflecting inflammation and metabolic changes, but conflicting findings highlight the need for a systematic review and meta‐analysis to clarify its role. Our study aimed to evaluate adiponectin levels across various stages of liver cirrhosis, compare them with other chronic liver diseases (CLD) and hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), and assess its potential as a diagnostic and prognostic biomarker.

Methods

Our systematic search was conducted on September 2023 using PubMed, EMBASE and Scopus, searching for observational studies evaluating serum and plasma adiponectin levels in liver cirrhosis. Inclusion and exclusion criteria were applied, and study quality was assessed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Scale. To evaluate the overall effect size, we utilized a random‐effects model along with a mean difference (MD) analysis. The principal summary outcome was the MD in adiponectin levels.

Results

We included 16 articles involving 2617 subjects in our qualitative and quantitative synthesis. We found significantly higher adiponectin levels in liver cirrhosis patients (8.181 [95% CI 3.676, 12.686]), especially in Child‐Pugh B individuals (13.294 [95% CI 4.955, 21.634]), compared to controls. Child‐Pugh A patients did not show significant differences compared to controls. In addition, adiponectin levels were significantly elevated in primary biliary cholangitis (PBC) patients compared to controls (8.669 [95% CI .291, 17.047]), as well as in liver cirrhosis compared to other CLD patients (4.805 [95% CI 1.247, 8.363]), including non‐alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) (8.532 [95% CI 3.422, 13.641]), but not viral hepatitis. No significant MD was observed between liver cirrhosis and HCC patients.

Conclusion

Adiponectin levels are significantly elevated in liver cirrhosis, especially in advanced stages, potentially serving as a biomarker for advanced cirrhosis. Adiponectin also differentiates cirrhosis from other CLD, including NAFLD. However, its role in distinguishing cirrhosis from viral hepatitis and HCC is limited.
Appropriate Terminology for the Time Elapsed From Avulsion of a Permanent Tooth to Replantation: A Scoping Review and Delphi Consensus
Authors: Tewari Nitesh , Garima Jhunjhunwala , O'Connell Anne , Sharawat Nidhi , Rahul Morankar , Mathur Vijay Prakash , Haldar Partha
Published: November 2024

Background

The prognosis of an avulsed permanent tooth depends on the time elapsed from injury to replantation in the injured socket. Wide variability exists in the terminologies used to describe this period. Hence, the aim of this study was to identify and categorize the terminologies related to this aspect of tooth avulsion, grade the explanations provided by the authors, and develop a consensus about the most appropriate terminology through a Delphi approach.

Methods

This study involved a scoping review to identify and analyze the terminologies. It was performed according to PRISMA‐ScR with a systematic search performed in PubMed, Scopus, EMBASE, LILACS, and Web of Science. The terminologies were extracted, categorized, and evaluated for correctness. On the basis of the results of the review and expert group discussion, an ideal terminology was proposed. A Delphi study with 20 global experts in dental traumatology was conducted to develop a consensus for the proposed terminology and its description.

Results

A total of 92 studies were included. They were distributed into five categories according to the terminology used: (a) dry period alone, (b) total period with dry and/or wet times, (c) extra‐alveolar period, (d) extraoral period, and (e) miscellaneous. The explanations provided were correct in 37.5% of the studies that used an extraoral period. In the Delphi study, the lowest scores were given to the term dry period. There was an agreement of 95% for the proposed terminology.

Conclusion

A wide variation in terminologies was observed that could be distributed into five categories. The correctness of explanations was highest in the studies that described total periods with dry and wet times. The Delphi study revealed excellent agreement for the proposed term “total extra‐alveolar period,” with precise and clear recordings of both nonphysiologic (dry) periods and physiologic (wet) periods.
Distinct comorbidity phenotypes among post‐9/11 Veterans with epilepsy are linked to diverging outcomes and mortality risks
Authors: Pugh Mary Jo , Munger Clary Heidi , Myers Madeleine , Kennedy Eamonn , Amuan Megan , Swan Alicia A. , Hinds Sidney , LaFrance W. Curt , Altalib Hamada , Towne Alan , Henion Amy , White Abigail , Baca Christine , Wang Chen‐Pin
Published: November 2024

Objective

To investigate phenotypes of comorbidity before and after an epilepsy diagnosis in a national cohort of post‐9/11 Service Members and Veterans and explore phenotypic associations with mortality.

Methods

Among a longitudinal cohort of Service Members and Veterans receiving care in the Veterans Health Administration (VHA) from 2002 to 2018, annual diagnoses for 26 conditions associated with epilepsy were collected over 5 years, ranging from 2 years prior to 2 years after the year of first epilepsy diagnosis. Latent class analysis (LCA) was used to identify probabilistic comorbidity phenotypes with distinct health trajectories. Descriptive statistics were used to describe the characteristics of each phenotype. Fine and Gray cause‐specific survival models were used to measure mortality outcomes for each phenotype up to 2021.

Results

Six distinct phenotypes were identified: (1) relatively healthy, (2) post‐traumatic stress disorder, (3) anxiety and depression, (4) chronic disease, (5) bipolar/substance use disorder, and (6) polytrauma. Accidents were the most common cause of death overall, followed by suicide/mental health and cancer, respectively. Each phenotype exhibited unique associations with mortality and cause of death, highlighting the differential impact of comorbidity patterns on patient outcomes.

Significance

By delineating clinically meaningful epilepsy comorbidity phenotypes, this study offers a framework for clinicians to tailor interventions. Moreover, these data support systems of care that facilitate treatment of epilepsy and comorbidities within an interdisciplinary health team that allows continuity of care. Targeting treatment toward patients with epilepsy who present with specific heightened risks could help mitigate adverse outcomes and enhance overall patient care.
Dysregulation of Regulatory T Cells and Autoimmune Sequelae in DRESS: Insights From Flow Cytometry and NanoString Analysis
Authors: Khanaruksombat Suparada , Buranapraditkul Supranee , Thantiworasit Pattarawat , Suthumchai Nithikan , Rerknimitr Pawinee , Reantragoon Rangsima , Klaewsongkram Jettanong
Published: November 2024

Drug reactions with eosinophilia and systemic symptoms (DRESS) and Stevens‐Johnson syndrome/toxic epidermal necrolysis (SJS/TEN) are severe cutaneous adverse hypersensitivity reactions with distinct clinical manifestations. Regulatory T (Treg) cells may behave differently in these syndromes, contributing to their diverse clinical features and outcomes. This study compared Treg dynamics between DRESS and SJS/TEN patients during the acute and recovery phases. Flow cytometry quantitatively analysed and defined the immunophenotype of CD4+CD25+CD127−FoxP3+ Tregs in blood from DRESS and SJS/TEN patients indicated that Treg percentages were lowest in DRESS patients during the acute phase compared to those in the recovery phase in DRESS patients and the acute phase in SJS/TEN patients. During the acute phase, CTLA‐4 expression in Tregs in both DRESS patients with and without autoimmune sequelae was significantly increased, while only DRESS patients without autoimmune sequelae had elevated OX40 expression compared to the healthy controls. High IL‐10 expression in Tregs during the acute phase in SJS/TEN patients was also observed. The suppressive function of Tregs was lower in DRESS compared to SJS/TEN, which was determined using a suppression assay by co‐culturing autologous Treg and effector T cells. Furthermore, NanoString technology explored mRNA profiles in Tregs. Genes associated with the JAK/STAT pathway were found to be downregulated during the acute phase in DRESS patients who later developed autoimmune sequelae. Our findings evidenced impaired Treg function in DRESS compared to SJS/TEN. The early disturbance of the JAK/STAT pathway may serve as a prognostic marker for autoimmune development in DRESS patients.
Balancing Water Yield and Water Use Efficiency Between Planted and Natural Forests: A Global Analysis
Authors: Sun Shulan , Xiang Wenhua , Ouyang Shuai , Hu Yanting , Peng Changhui
Published: November 2024

Climate warming is projected to affect hydrological cycle in forest ecosystems and makes the forest–water relationship more controversial. Currently, planted forests are gaining more public attention due to their role in carbon sequestration and wood production relative to natural forests. However, little is known about how the global patterns and drivers of water yield and water‐use efficiency (WUE) differ between planted and natural forests. Here, we conduct a global analysis to compare water yield and WUE in planted and natural forests using 946 observations from 112 published studies. The results showed that global average water yield coefficient was 0.29 for planted forests and 0.34 for natural forests. Planted forests exhibited lower water yield coefficient (p < 0.05) in three climatic regions (arid, dry subhumid, and humid regions), but higher (p < 0.01) WUE only in arid region, compared with natural forests. Both water yield coefficient and WUE in planted forests were significantly lower (p < 0.05) than that in natural forests for stand characteristic groups (stand density, average tree height, leaf area index [LAI], and basal area). Additionally, stand density within the ranging between 1000 to 2000 stem ha−1 can maximize the water yield and WUE in planted and natural forests. Water yield coefficient in planted forests was primarily controlled by the factors related to tree growth (i.e., tree height, DBH), while that of natural forest mainly affected by stand structure (i.e., LAI, stand density, DBH). WUE in planted forest was more sensitive to climate than in natural forests. This work highlights the critical role of natural forests in water supply and the importance of tree species selection and stand management (e.g., stand density adjustment) in plantations in future forest restoration policies and climate change mitigation.
Disrupting the Chrononormativity of Geographies of Youth and Youth Studies: Learning From Infractions at the Border
Authors: Nairn Karen
Published: November 2024

The overlapping academic fields of geographies of youth and youth studies are defined by what counts as ‘youth’, but how important are age categories to maintaining their boundaries? Descriptions of infractions at the border act as provocations for examining how the normalisation of ages and stages such as ‘youth’ constitute chrononormativities that are implicitly ‘westernised’ and culturally blind. I curate conceptual resources for disrupting chrononormativity and narrow ways of thinking about generation and intergenerational responsibilities to make the case for why this matters in climate‐altered worlds. I make two separate but related interventions. First, I critique how youth scholars and youth journals currently conceive of ‘youth’ drawing on Indigenous scholarship. I then demonstrate why this matters by challenging the pervasive discourse that climate change is a recent problem for ‘younger generations’ to solve. The research reviewed here charts a useful path forward for geographers and other scholars to resist and reconfigure youth/adult dualities and broader chrononormativities, building on scholarship stipulating the necessity of intergenerational dialogue, justice, and solidarity in climate activism that is also informed by decolonial theories and principles.
Diagnostic accuracy of hepatitis E virus antibody tests: A comprehensive meta‐analysis
Authors: Mirzaev Ulugbek Khudayberdievich , Yoshinaga Yayoi , Baynazarov Mirzarakhim , Ouoba Serge , Ko Ko , Phyo Zayar , Chhoung Chanroth , Akuffo Golda Ataa , Sugiyama Aya , Akita Tomoyuki , Takahashi Kazuaki , Fukuma Shingo , Tanaka Junko
Published: November 2024

Aim

Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a major global health issue, with an estimated 20 million infections annually. Although polymerase chain reaction (PCR) is the diagnostic gold standard due to its precision, it is expensive and technically demanding. Antibody tests offer a more practical and cost‐effective alternative, although their accuracy can vary due to factors, such as test manufacturer, antigen composition, HEV genotype, and host immune status.

Methods

A comprehensive search was conducted in PubMed, Cochrane, Scopus, and Web of Science databases. Studies included comparing the sensitivity and specificity of immunoglobulin M or immunoglobulin G antibody tests to PCR. Exclusion criteria were non‐PCR comparisons, sample sizes under 10, IgA or antigen tests, non‐human samples, or missing sensitivity and specificity data. Only English‐language full‐texts or abstracts were considered. Data analysis was performed using Meta‐DTA v2.1.1 and Stata 16.0.

Results

The meta‐analysis evaluated 8054 blood samples from 21 studies. Immunoglobulin M antibody tests demonstrated an overall sensitivity of 83% (95% CI 76–88) and specificity of 98% (95% CI 97–99). Immunoglobulin G tests showed a sensitivity of 74% (95% CI 62–82) and specificity of 89% (95% CI 84–93). Among manufacturers, Wantai was the most accurate for immunoglobulin M detection, whereas MP led for immunoglobulin G. Notably, test sensitivity improved when the test protein genotype aligned with the HEV genotype.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis confirmed that antibody assays have a good sensitivity and high specificity to detect HEV infection in situations where PCR is not feasible, highlighting their potential as a practical diagnostic tool.
Foliar Application of Plant Growth Regulators Enhances Drought Tolerance by Modulating Growth and Biochemical Responses in Sugarcane Varieties
Authors: Ahmad Shakeel , Deng Yaowen , Lv Rongman , Akhtar Kashif , Muhammad Ihsan , Farooq Muhammad , Wen Ronghui
Published: November 2024

Plant growth regulators (PGRs) improve crop growth and mitigate the adverse effects of drought stress. This study explores the effects of various PGRs including melatonin (MT), indole‐butyric acid (IBA) and gibberellic acid (GA3) on drought‐tolerant Zhongzhe 9 (ZZ9) and Xintaitang 22 (ROC22), as well as drought‐sensitive varieties Guitang‐44 (GT44) and Funong 41 (FN41) varieties. A pot experiment was conducted to evaluate the foliar application of these hormones alone or in combination on sugarcane seedlings under drought stress conditions. At the sixth leaf stage, drought stress was induced by reducing soil moisture to 40%–45% field capacity. Results showed that the drought‐sensitive variety GT44 had the highest plant height (17.97 cm), while PGRs application enhanced the relative water content (RWC) in FN41 by 0.96%. PGRs treatment also increased plant height by 33.98% and RWC by 3.26% compared to controls. MT application significantly increased chlorophyll a and b contents in FN41 by 4.82% and 4.51%, respectively. Antioxidant enzyme activities superoxide dismutase and peroxidase increased by 16.39% and 12.57%, respectively, indicating enhanced oxidative stress defence. Moreover, PGRs applications reduced hydrogen peroxide and malondialdehyde (MDA) accumulation, signifying decreased oxidative damages. The combinations of MT + GA3 and MT + IBA + GA3 significantly improved the plant growth attributes, antioxidant enzymes, osmolytes and reduced the accumulation of ROS and MDA content in both tolerant and sensitive varieties under drought stress. Thus, combined application of MT + GA3 and MT + IBA + GA3 treatments effectively mitigated drought stress in sugarcane seedlings, providing valuable insights for sustainable agricultural practices.
Clinical Decision‐Making of Repair vs. Replacement of Defective Direct Dental Restorations: A Multinational Cross‐Sectional Study With Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Hatipoğlu Ömer , Martins João Filipe Brochado , Karobari Mohmed Isaqali , Taha Nessrin , Aldhelai Thiyezen Abdullah , Ayyad Daoud M. , Madfa Ahmed A. , Martin‐Biedma Benjamin , Fernández‐Grisales Rafael , Omarova Bakhyt A. , Lim Wen Yi , Alfirjani Suha , Nijakowski Kacper , Sugumaran Surendar , Petridis Xenos , Krmek Silvana Jukić , Wahjuningrum Dian Agustin , Iqbal Azhar , Abidin Imran Zainal , Intriago Martha Gallegos , Elhamouly Yasmine , Palma Paulo Jorge , Hatipoğlu Fatma Pertek
Published: November 2024

Objectives

This web‐based survey, conducted across multiple countries, sought to explore the factors that impact the decision‐making of clinicians when it comes to managing defective direct restorations.

Methods

A survey consisting of 14 questions was sent out to dentists in 21 countries through various online platforms. The survey consisted of two sections. The first contained five questions about demographic information, while the second involved eight clinical scenarios. In the second part, participants were tasked with deciding whether to repair or replace defective composite and amalgam restorations.

Results

Three thousand six hundred eighty dental practitioners completed the survey. For composite restorations, repair was preferred in scenarios like partial loss or fracture (RR:0.72; 95% CI: 0.58, 0.89; p = 0.002), whereas replacement was favored for secondary caries (RR:2.43; 95% CI: 1.87, 3.16; p < 0.001) and open/defective margins (RR:3.93; 95% CI: 2.68, 5.76;p < 0.001). Amalgam restorations were mostly replaced across all scenarios. The main factors influencing decision‐making were caries risk, restoration size, and patient oral hygiene. Substantial heterogeneity was observed across countries.

Conclusion

This study underscores the complexity of the decision‐making process and the need for evidence‐based guidelines to inform clinicians' decisions regarding restoration management. Patient‐level factors predominantly influence decision‐making, emphasizing the need for individualized approaches.

Clinical Significance

The study reveals that the material type in the original restoration is a critical determinant, with composite restorations being repaired in specific scenarios, while amalgam restorations are consistently replaced across different countries. Key patient and tooth‐level factors, such as high caries risk, poor oral hygiene, and restoration size, significantly impact clinicians' decisions, often favoring replacement over repair. These findings underscore the necessity for evidence‐based guidelines to assist clinicians in making informed choices, ultimately enhancing the quality of patient care.
Bleaching Gels and Light‐Emitting Diodes: Comparison of Tooth Color Change
Authors: Shekari Tina , Agostini‐Walesch Gina , Pierre‐Bez Alexandra , Mitchell John C.
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To measure difference in tooth shade and color achieved via two different over‐the‐counter bleaching agents with and without their associated light‐emitting diodes (LEDs).

Methods

A total of 84 extracted human anterior teeth were randomly divided into seven groups. Gypsum models were made with 6 extracted teeth in an arch form (n = 12; 2 arches/group). Samples were kept hydrated throughout treatment (25°C). Bleaching treatment followed manufacturers' instructions with at least 1‐h of rehydration between treatments. Control tooth arches were left untreated. L*a*b* values were measured with a Vita Easyshade (VITA North America, Yorba Linda, CA) three times per tooth using white and black backgrounds. ∆E (CIE 2000) was compared between and within treatment groups over time with ANOVA and post hoc Tukey (a = 0.05).

Results

Subgroup testing confirmed the data were normally distributed. Two‐way ANOVA showed significant interaction between product (Control, Crest, Snow) and treatment (light only, product only, light and product) on ∆E values for black (p‐value < 0.001, F = 15.28) and white (p‐value < 0.001, F = 13.62) backgrounds. Post hoc pairwise Tukey tests showed a significant effect of light‐and‐product treatments in contrast to light‐ or product‐only treatments. Repeated measures ANOVA of between‐treatment change (∆E) by product showed significant interaction between time and treatment for Snow products (p < 0.001, F = 10.9) and independent effects of time and treatment for Crest products (Time: p‐value < 0.001, Treatment: p‐value < 0.01, F = 7.21) on a black background. On white backgrounds, only a significant effect of treatment was reported for both Snow (p‐value < 0.01, F = 5.427) and Crest (p‐value < 0.001, F = 5.61).

Conclusions

Overall, a combination of light and gel produces significantly higher tooth color and shade change over time, with the highest change seen for Snow products.

Statement of Significance

Many patients use over‐the‐counter tooth bleaching products because they are more cost effective and easier to access than in‐office bleaching. However, these products may have adverse effects, such as increased sensitivity with repeated use, in addition to increased consumption of time and money. This project measured tooth shade between treatments which can help determine which product is most effective for at home use.
Association of body indices with mortality in older population: Japan Specific Health Checkups (J‐SHC) Study
Authors: Kosugi Takaaki , Eriguchi Masahiro , Yoshida Hisako , Tamaki Hiroyuki , Uemura Takayuki , Tasaki Hikari , Furuyama Riri , Nishimoto Masatoshi , Matsui Masaru , Samejima Ken‐ichi , Iseki Kunitoshi , Fujimoto Shouichi , Konta Tsuneo , Moriyama Toshiki , Yamagata Kunihiro , Narita Ichiei , Kasahara Masato , Shibagaki Yugo , Kondo Masahide , Asahi Koichi , Watanabe Tsuyoshi , Tsuruya Kazuhiko
Published: November 2024

Background

Obesity indices reflect not only fat mass but also muscle mass and nutritional status in older people. Therefore, they may not accurately reflect prognosis. This study aimed to investigate associations between a body shape index (ABSI), body mass index (BMI), and mortality in the general older population.

Methods

This nationwide observational longitudinal study included individuals aged between 65 and 74 years who underwent annual health checkups between 2008 and 2014. Exposures of interest were ABSI and BMI, and the primary outcome was all‐cause mortality. Association between the ABSI and BMI quartile (Q1–4) and mortality was assessed using Cox regression analysis. A restricted cubic spline was also used to investigate nonlinear associations. The missing values were imputed using multiple imputation by chained equations.

Results

Among 315,215 participants, 5074 died during a median follow‐up period of 42.5 (interquartile range: 26.2–59.3) months. Compared with ABSI Q1, ABSI Q3 and Q4 were associated with increased risk of mortality, with the adjusted hazard ratios (aHRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) of 1.13 (1.05–1.22) and 1.23 (1.13–1.35), respectively. Compared with BMI Q3, BMI Q1 and Q2 were associated with an increased risk of mortality, with aHRs and 95% CIs of 1.51 (1.39–1.65) and 1.12 (1.03–1.22), respectively. The impacts of these indices were greater in male than in female. The heatmap of the aHR for mortality by continuous ABSI and BMI showed that higher ABSI was consistently associated with higher mortality risk regardless of BMI, and that the combination of low BMI and high ABSI was strongly associated with increased mortality risk.

Conclusions

High ABSI and low BMI are additively associated with the risk of all‐cause mortality in the general older population in Japan. Combination of ABSI and BMI is useful for evaluating mortality risk in older people.
Parallel Mediating Roles of Social Support and Self‐Efficacy in the Relationship Between Frailty and Depression in Elderly Patients After Percutaneous Coronary Intervention
Authors: Wang Rong , Bi Min , Jia Wei , Ma Jing , Yao Li
Published: November 2024

Aim

To examine chain mediating roles of social support and self‐efficacy between quality of frailty and depression in elderly people after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI).

Background

Frailty is a cause of depression among elderly patients after PCI. Although previous studies have shown that frailty, social support, self‐efficacy and depression are significantly related, the interaction mechanism remains unclear.

Methods

Employing a cross‐sectional research design and convenience sampling methodology, data were collected at a tertiary hospital in China. Participants completed the FRAIL Scale, Social Support Rate Scale, General Self‐Efficacy Scale and the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale. We utilised the PROCESS macro in SPSS to ascertain the mediating roles of social support and self‐efficacy between frailty and depression.

Reporting Method

The study used the STROBE checklist for reporting.

Result

A total of 241 elderly patients were included in the study, with an average age of 68.05 (6.04) years. Among them, 63.1% of the participants had experienced depression. Elderly patients after PCI's frailty score was negatively correlated with social support and self‐efficacy, and positively correlated with depression. Social support was significantly positively correlated with self‐efficacy, significantly negatively correlated with depression. Finally, self‐efficacy was significantly negatively correlated with depression. Social support and self‐efficacy mediated 11.61% and 29.46% of the total depressive role in elderly after frailty and PCI, respectively.

Conclusion

Frailty in elderly PCI patients is directly associated with depression and indirectly related through social support or self‐efficacy.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

To enhance the quality of life for elderly patients following PCI, healthcare providers should address the impact of frailty on depression and develop intervention strategies based on the levels of social support and self‐efficacy.

Patient or Public Contribution

Questionnaires filled out by patients were used to understand the relationship between frailty, social support, self‐efficacy and depression.
Using Intersectionality to Understand How Structural Domains Are Embedded in Life Narratives
Authors: Wilkinson Westberg Dulce , Syed Moin , Loyd Aerika Brittian , Dunlop William
Published: November 2024

Objective

This study draws on life narrative data and an intersectional framework to explore features of narratives around structural domains, aiming to better understand the possible impacts of these domains on identity.

Method

Through in‐depth semi‐structured interviews with 177 young adults from primarily minoritized groups (73% Asian American or Latine, 59% Women, Median Parent Income = $50,001 to $75,000), we gathered 885 life narratives. Young adults narrated a domain‐general, ethnic/racial, gender, social class, and intersectional experience. Features capturing the content (Presence of Structural Domains, Connection to and Between Structural Domains) and process (Meaning Making, Affective Tone) of narratives were explored.

Results

Structural domains manifested uniquely within narratives such that ethnicity/race was discussed most frequently across narratives, whereas gender and social class were mentioned more in narratives about those domains. Additionally, Meaning Making was highest in self‐defining narratives and positively correlated with the number of structural domains present within and across narratives. Affective Tone was most positive in self‐defining narratives and most negative in social class narratives, which also contained the lowest Connection to Structural Domain.

Conclusion

This study combines an intersectional framework and life narrative data to understand how structural domains manifest within young adults' experiences, revealing how those domains are interconnected and may impact identity.
Antenatal counselling at the cusp of viability and parental decision‐making in the zone of parental discretion: A cohort study
Authors: Sabljak Jessica , Brinsmead Tammy
Published: November 2024

Aim

Safer Care Victoria updated a clinical guideline on extreme prematurity in 2020, reducing the threshold for offering resuscitation from 23 to 22 weeks gestation. The zone of parental discretion is the interval of shared decision‐making between parents and doctors regarding resuscitation decisions. It is especially relevant at this periviable gestation. Our study aimed to establish current practices in antenatal counselling and steroid administration at this cusp of viability, and examine the decisions made during the zone of parental discretion.

Methods

Single centre retrospective cohort study. Sixteen thousand three hundred fifty‐four admissions and emergency department presentations between January 2021 and July 2023 were retrieved from Birthing Outcomes System (BOS) and patient details were imported and manually reviewed on Microsoft Excel, with particular note to the gestation at admission/emergency department presentation and duration of admission. Eighty‐seven patients were identified as present in the hospital between 21 + 0 and 22 + 6 weeks gestation. These 87 scanned records on Clinical Patient Folder (CPF) were then manually reviewed to identify if antenatal counselling occurred during this window. Thirty‐six patients were included who received antenatal counselling between 21 + 0 and 22 + 6 weeks gestation (the remaining patients did not receive antenatal counselling during this window), and relevant data was subsequently extracted from the scanned medical record and analysed using SPSS software (IBM SPSS Statistics 29).

Results

Thirty‐six women received antenatal counselling between 21 + 0 and 22 + 6 weeks. 58% decided on full resuscitation and 39% opted for comfort care if their infant was to be born between 22 + 0 and 22 + 6 weeks. All but one baby born premature were exposed to steroids, with 83.3% receiving a full course. Twenty‐eight infants (62.2%) were fully steroid loaded at the time of delivery. In those fully steroid loaded, 31.1% of the time steroids were initiated prior to transfer, 50% of the time deferred until neonatal review and a decision regarding the resuscitation status of the baby, and on one occasion requested by the neonatologist before counselling.

Conclusion

Patients at risk for premature birth who attended our hospital at the cusp of viability were generally counselled about the opportunity for resuscitation between 22 + 0 and 22 + 6 weeks gestational age, and offered steroids. Further studies are required to establish whether the content of antenatal counselling, and the timing of steroids, are consistent in this population.
Pathogenic Variability and Race Structure of Colletotrichum lindemuthianum Isolates From Common Bean in Ethiopia
Authors: Degu Tizazu , Alemu Tesfaye , Desalegn Asnake , Assefa Alemayehu , Fenta Berhanu Amsalu
Published: November 2024

Bean anthracnose, caused by Colletothricum lindemuthianum, poses a significant threat to common bean production in Ethiopia. The objective of this study was to determine the pathogenic variability and race structure and distribution of bean anthracnose in four selected zones (Metekel, Sidama, Wolaita and Halaba) of Ethiopia. Field surveys were conducted at 5–7 km intervals, focusing on diseased plant parts of common bean. The severity, incidence and prevalence of bean anthracnose were assessed and determined, and a total of 74 bean anthracnose isolates were obtained for further analysis. The isolates were tested on the 12 standard differential cultivars. The results revealed a wide range of pathogenic variability, with severity ranging from 0% to 24.1%, incidence from 0% to 87% and prevalence from 0% to 100%. The 74 isolates were classified into 32 distinct pathogenic races with 20 of them being newly identified races specific to Ethiopia. Dibate district had the highest number of races (12), whereas Sodo_Zuria and Borecha district had only one. Race 128 was widely distributed, and race 3770 was the most virulent, infecting 8 of the 12 differential cultivars. Around 14% of the isolates were virulent to one differential cultivar, whereas 4.1% to eight cultivars. These findings have important implications for developing resistant cultivars by deploying resistance genes into an improved cultivar and ensuring sustainable common bean production in Ethiopia and other related countries.
Effects of biological and environmental filtering on the community assembly of two grasslands in southern Mexico
Authors: Romero‐Rodríguez Emiliano , Martorell Carlos , García‐Meza Diego
Published: November 2024

Questions

Community assembly is envisaged as filters that preclude some species in the regional pool from invading local communities. We tested whether the large floristic differences between adjacent calcicole and calcifuge grasslands are explained by either of five filters: environment (soil) or positive or negative interactions with plants and with soil biota.

Location

Southern Mexico.

Methods

We conducted a reciprocal‐transplant experiment with 20 species that were introduced to both habitats under three conditions: intact local community, without plants, and in sterilized plots. Each of the five filters mentioned above predict unique patterns in the performance (survival and growth) of plants in the six treatments. Thus, we used multimodel inference to determine which filters (patterns) were consistent with the evidence.

Results

We detected at least one filter operating on all but four species. Survival data showed frequent support for environmental filtering, with interactions (mostly positive) playing a secondary role; however negative interactions became as frequent as environmental filtering when growth was considered.

Conclusions

The large physicochemical differences between the soils of both grasslands explain the high frequency of environmental filtering. Soils differed in nutrient availability, but also had toxic concentrations of different elements. Survival was strongly influenced by early mortality, while size was measured at the end of the experiment. It is thus likely that the differences between analyses based on survival and size reflect an ontogenetic change from positive to negative interactions. Other plants frequently facilitate seedlings, but this interaction often turns competitive over time. Soil mutualists provide nutrients that seedlings cannot access, but antagonists build up in the rhizosphere as plants age. Unlike studies that infer filters from extant plants in communities or from successful invasions, our approach provides direct evidence on which filters cause species to be absent from communities.
Human Impacts on Great Lakes Walleye Sander vitreus Structure, Diversity and Local Adaptation
Authors: Euclide Peter T. , Kuhl Heiner , Wilson Chris C. , Scribner Kim T. , Miller Loren M. , Stott Wendylee , Larson Wesley A.
Published: November 2024

Artificial propagation and wild release may influence the genetic integrity of wild populations. This practice has been prevalent in fisheries for centuries and is often termed ‘stocking’. In the Laurentian Great Lakes (Great Lakes here‐on), walleye populations faced declines from the 1950s to the 1970s, prompting extensive stocking efforts for restoration. By the mid‐2010s, walleye populations showed signs of recovery, but the genetic legacy of stocking on population structure at the genomic level remains unclear. Using a dataset of 45,600 genome‐aligned SNP loci genotyped in 1075 walleye individuals, we investigated the genetic impacts of over 50 years of stocking across the Great Lakes. Population structure was associated with both natural geographic barriers and stocking from non‐native sources. Admixture between Lake Erie walleye and walleye from the re‐populated Tittabawassee River indicate that stocking may have re‐distributed putatively adaptive alleles around the Great Lakes. Genome scans identified FST outliers and evidence of selective sweeps, indicating local adaptation of spawning populations is likely. Notably, one genomic region showed strong differentiation between Muskegon River and walleye from the Tittabawassee River, which was re‐populated by Muskegon strain walleye, suggesting admixture and selection both impact the observed genetic diversity. Overall, our study underscores how artificial propagation and translocations can significantly alter the evolutionary trajectory of populations. The findings highlight the complex interplay between stocking practices and population genetic diversity, emphasising the need for careful management strategies to preserve the genetic integrity of wild populations amidst conservation efforts.
A Kaleckian growth model of secular stagnation with induced innovation
Authors: Stamegna Marco
Published: November 2024

This paper works out a demand‐led growth model that draws on the Kaleckian‐Steindlian tradition to examine the relationships between income distribution, capacity utilization, and capital accumulation; on Goodwin‐type growth cycle models to investigate the dynamic interaction between labour market and distributive conflict; and on the induced innovation literature to link labour productivity growth to income distribution. We find that: (i) an increase in the labour share driven by stronger workers' bargaining power leads to faster capital accumulation and labour productivity growth in the long run, irrespective of the short‐run growth regime of the economy; (ii) a positive institutional shock to the labour share can either increase or decrease the long‐run employment rate, depending on the short‐run growth regime; and (iii) an increase in the labour share driven by negative technology shocks leads to faster capital accumulation and labour productivity growth in the long run only if the economy exhibits a short‐run wage‐led regime. This model then unifies classical/neo‐Goodwinian and Kaleckian views on the long‐run relationships between the labour share, employment, and growth within a more general Kaleckian framework of a labour‐constrained economy with induced technical change.
A coarse aggregate particle size classification method by fusing 3D multi‐view and graph convolutional networks
Authors: Tian Aojia , Li Wei , Yang Ming , Ding Jiangang , Pei Lili , Weng Yuhan
Published: November 2024

To address the inaccurate classification of coarse aggregate particle size due to insufficient height information in single‐view, a multi‐view and graph convolutional network (GCN) based method for coarse aggregate particle size classification was proposed in this study. First, the viewpoint selection and projection strategies were designed to build the aggregate multi‐view datasets. Then, the surface texture of the aggregate was reconstructed by using 3D point cloud information. Finally, self‐attention mechanism and three‐layer GCN were introduced to aggregate global shape feature descriptors. The experimental results show that the proposed interleaved self‐attention and view GCN model achieves a coarse aggregate particle size classification accuracy of 94.11%, outperforming other multi‐view classification algorithms. This method provides a new possibility for the accurate detection of aggregate particle size and provides significant support for the production and automatic detection of aggregate raw materials.
High‐Resolution Melting Assay to Detect the Mutations That Cause the Y132F and G458S Substitutions at the ERG11 Gene Involved in Azole Resistance in Candida parapsilosis
Authors: Trevijano‐Contador Nuria , López‐Peralta Elena , López‐López Jorge , Roldán Alejandra , de Armentia Cristina , Zaragoza Óscar
Published: November 2024

Background

Candida parapsilosis is a pathogenic yeast that has reduced susceptibility to echinocandins and ranks as the second or third leading cause of candidaemia, depending on the geographical region. This yeast often causes nosocomial infections, which are frequently detected as outbreaks. In recent years, resistance to azoles in C. parapsilosis has increased globally, primarily due to the accumulation of mutations in the ERG11 gene.

Objectives

In this study, we have developed an assay based on real‐time PCR and high‐resolution melting (HRM) curve analysis to detect two of the most prevalent mutations at ERG11 that confer resistance to fluconazole (Y132F and G458S).

Methods

We designed allele‐specific oligonucleotides that selectively bind to either the wild type or mutated sequences and optimised the conditions to ensure amplification of the specific allele, followed by detection via high‐resolution melting (HRM) analysis.

Results

The designed oligonucleotides to detect the Erg11Y132F and Erg11G458S mutations produced specific amplification of either WT or mutated alleles. We conducted a duplex real‐time PCR combining oligonucleotides for the wild‐type sequences in one mix, and oligonucleotides for the mutated alleles in another. Following this, we performed an analysis of the HRM curve to identify the amplified allele in each case. This technique was blindly evaluated on a set of 114 C. parapsilosis isolates, all of which were unequivocally identified using our approach.

Conclusion

This technique offers a new method for the early detection of azole resistance mechanism in C. parapsilosis.
Optimizing the low‐temperature performance of high‐wax‐content crude oil with emulsion‐based wax inhibitors: Mechanisms and efficacy
Authors: Jing Jiaqiang , Cao Lei , Shan Yuting , Sun Jie , Tan Jiatong
Published: November 2024

Wax deposition in constant‐temperature transportation of waxy oil with high pour points poses a significant challenge for the oil industry. The demand for efficient methods to solve wax deposition has gained attention. To elucidate the impact of emulsion‐based wax inhibitors on the performance of crude oils with varying wax content at low temperatures, experiments, rheological analyses, and microscopic analyses were conducted to study their pour point regulation, low‐temperature flow improvement, wax prevention effectiveness, and wax crystallization behavior. The results indicate that emulsion‐based wax inhibitors significantly reduce the pour point of crude oil, especially for high‐wax‐content oil, while for low‐wax‐content oil, the pour point only decreased by 3°C. By penetrating and dispersing wax crystals, the inhibitor reduced the viscosity of crude oil at low temperatures, enhancing its flowability. At 28°C, crude oil transitioned from a shear‐thinning non‐Newtonian fluid to a Newtonian fluid at wax inhibitor dosages of 500−750 ppm. At 1000 ppm, the wax prevention rate for high‐wax‐content oil reached 87.5%, but the effect plateaued beyond this concentration. Additionally, the wax prevention and removal mechanism of the emulsion‐based wax inhibitors is discussed. This study confirms that emulsion‐based wax inhibitors significantly enhance the low‐temperature processability of crude oil, offering a viable strategy for the conveyance and refinement in cold climates.
Research excellence in a world of change
Authors: Loo Becky P. Y.
Published: November 2024

This commentary is in response to the proposed changes in the United Kingdom Research Excellence Framework (UK REF) 2029 and the potential implications on Hong Kong beyond the upcoming Research Assessment Exercise (Hong Kong RAE) 2026. Defining research excellence in a world of change is challenging and debatable. The suggested changes in UK REF 2029 are numerous and structural, ranging from changing the relative importance of the components of research excellence to a re‐conceptualisation of the scope, structure, and assessment criteria of each component. The issues are complex and the implications are wide‐ranging. A wider awareness among the research community and an in‐depth dialogue with the relevant authorities about the proposed changes are urgently needed.