bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lupus flare and recurrent lupus nephritis following kidney transplantation in patients with lupus nephritis
Authors: Kim Young‐Eun , Kim Jin‐Myung , Ahn Soo Min , Oh Ji Seon , Kim Yong‐Gil , Lee Chang‐Keun , Yoo Bin , Shin Sung , Hong Seokchan
Published: September 2024

Background

Clinical manifestations and risk factors associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) flares, including recurrent lupus nephritis (LN), in patients with LN who undergo kidney transplantation have been unclear.

Methods

Kidney transplant recipients with LN from January 1995 to December 2021 were included in this study. A disease flare was defined as either an increase in the non‐renal SLE disease activity index score or the presence of biopsy‐proven recurrent LN.

Results

Among a total of 93 patients with LN who underwent kidney transplantation, 11 patients (11.8%) experienced SLE flares during a median follow‐up period of 76.9 months (IQR, 43.0–122.4). The most common clinical manifestations of SLE flares were recurrent LN (4/11, 36.4%) and hematologic manifestations (4/11, 36.4%). Patients who had flares had significantly higher anti‐double‐stranded DNA (anti‐dsDNA) antibody titers both before and after transplantation. Furthermore, an increased anti‐dsDNA antibody level before transplantation was associated with a high risk of an SLE flare (HR, 1.030; p = .008). Conversely, preemptive transplantation was associated with a lower risk of a flare (HR, 0.617; p = .026). The rate of patient death‐censored graft survival was found to be considerably lower in patients with recurrent LN than in those without LN.

Conclusions

Approximately 10% of patients with LN experienced an SLE flare after transplantation, with recurrent LN being the most frequent manifestation. Anti‐dsDNA antibody titers before transplantation were significantly related to the risk of an SLE flare. Notably, preemptive transplantation was associated with a reduced risk of flares following transplantation.
Alcohol Feedback, Reflection, and Morning Evaluation (A‐FRAME): Refining and testing feasibility and acceptability of a smartphone‐delivered alcohol intervention for heavy‐drinking young adults
Authors: Merrill Jennifer E. , Gebru Nioud Mulugeta , Peterson Roselyn , López Gabriela , Lau‐Barraco Cathy , Barnett Nancy P. , Carey Kate B.
Published: September 2024

Background

Young adults drink heavily and experience negative alcohol consequences. To capitalize on mornings after drinking as an optimal time to intervene, we developed a novel, theory‐based personalized feedback intervention (PFI) called Alcohol Feedback, Reflection, and Morning Evaluation (A‐FRAME), to reduce heavy drinking. An initial prototype was refined via feedback from college students who drink heavily. The goal of the present study was to conduct an open trial to establish feasibility and acceptability of the refined PFI.

Methods

The refined PFI was delivered for 4 weeks to 18 heavy‐drinking young adults (Mage = 22.61, 44% women, 66.7% White, 27.8% Black, 16.7% Asian, 5.6% Native American/Alaskan Indian, 22.2% Hispanic/Latino). Participants completed a goal‐setting procedure, followed by 28 daily surveys. Surveys indicating prior‐day drinking were followed by the option to view personalized feedback (e.g., goal attainment, blood alcohol concentration [BAC], peer norms, protective behaviors). Aggregated feedback was also delivered at the 14‐ and 28‐day marks. Participants completed a post‐test acceptability survey and individual interviews to inform further refinement.

Results

The response rate to daily surveys was 93.8% and all participants completed study procedures, demonstrating feasibility. Daily feedback was reviewed about half (45.5%) of the time it was offered (i.e., following drinking days). Biweekly feedback was viewed 50% and 56% of the time at 14‐ and 28‐day marks, respectively. Other benchmarks for acceptability were supported by survey and interview results.

Conclusions

Open trial results support the feasibility and acceptability of this theory‐based intervention for heavy‐drinking young adults. A planned randomized controlled trial will evaluate efficacy.
Cholesterol synthesis is essential for the growth of liver metastasis‐prone colorectal cancer cells
Authors: Taniguchi Kumiko , Sugihara Kei , Miura Takashi , Hoshi Daisuke , Kohno Susumu , Takahashi Chiaki , Hirata Eishu , Kiyokawa Etsuko
Published: September 2024

Metastasis to the liver is a leading cause of death in patients with colorectal cancer. To investigate the characteristics of cancer cells prone to metastasis, we utilized an isogenic model of BALB/c and colon tumor 26 (C26) cells carrying an active KRAS mutation. Liver metastatic (LM) 1 cells were isolated from mice following intrasplenic transplantation of C26 cells. Subsequent injections of LM1 cells generated LM2 cells, and after four cycles, LM4 cells were obtained. In vitro, using a perfusable capillary network system, we found comparable extravasation frequencies between C26 and LM4 cells. Both cell lines showed similar growth rates in vitro. However, C26 cells showed higher glucose consumption, whereas LM4 cells incorporated more fluorescent fatty acids (FAs). Biochemical analysis revealed that LM4 cells had higher cholesterol levels than C26 cells. A correlation was observed between fluorescent FAs and cholesterol levels detected using filipin III. LM4 cells utilized FAs as a source for cholesterol synthesis through acetyl‐CoA metabolism. In cellular analysis, cholesterol accumulated in punctate regions, and upregulation of NLRP3 and STING proteins, but not mTOR, was observed in LM4 cells. Treatment with a cholesterol synthesis inhibitor (statin) induced LM4 cell death in vitro and suppressed LM4 cell growth in the livers of nude mice. These findings indicate that colorectal cancer cells prone to liver metastasis show cholesterol‐dependent growth and that statin therapy could help treat liver metastasis in immunocompromised patients.
KA‐mediated excitotoxicity induces neuronal ferroptosis through activation of ferritinophagy
Authors: Jiang Yi‐Yue , Wu Wei‐Long , Huang Jia‐Ni , Liu Na , Wang Jing , Wan Xiao‐Rui , Qin Zheng‐Hong , Wang Yan
Published: September 2024

Objectives

This study aims to elucidate the role of Fe2+ overload in kainic acid (KA)‐induced excitotoxicity, investigate the involvement of ferritinophagy selective cargo receptor NCOA4 in the pathogenesis of excitotoxicity.

Methods

Western blotting was used to detect the expression of FTH1, NCOA4, Lamp2, TfR, FPN, and DMT1 after KA stereotaxic injection into the unilateral striatum of mice. Colocalization of Fe2+ with lysosomes in KA‐treated primary cortical neurons was observed by using confocal microscopy. Desferrioxamine (DFO) was added to chelate free iron, a CCK8 kit was used to measure cell viability, and the Fe2+ levels were detected by FerroOrange. BODIPY C11 was used to determine intracellular lipid reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels, and the mRNA levels of PTGS2, a biomarker of ferroptosis, were measured by fluorescent quantitative PCR. 3‐Methyladenine (3‐MA) was employed to inhibit KA‐induced activation of autophagy, and changes in ferritinophagy‐related protein expression and the indicated biomarkers of ferroptosis were detected. Endogenous NCOA4 was knocked down by lentivirus transfection, and cell viability and intracellular Fe2+ levels were observed after KA treatment.

Results

Western blot results showed that the expression of NCOA4, DMT1, and Lamp2 was significantly upregulated, while FTH1 was downregulated, but there were no significant changes in TfR and FPN. The fluorescence results indicated that KA enhanced the colocalization of free Fe2+ with lysosomes in neurons. DFO intervention could effectively rescue cell damage, reduce intracellular lipid peroxidation, and decrease the increased transcript levels of PTGS2 caused by KA. Pretreatment with 3‐MA effectively reversed KA‐induced ferritinophagy and ferroptosis. Endogenous interference with NCOA4 significantly improved cell viability and reduced intracellular free Fe2+ levels in KA‐treated cells.

Conclusion

KA‐induced excitotoxicity activates ferritinophagy, and targeting ferritinophagy effectively inhibits downstream ferroptosis. Interference with NCOA4 effectively attenuates KA‐induced neuronal damage. This study provides a potential therapeutic target for excitotoxicity related disease conditions.
IL23R mutations associated with decreased risk of psoriasis lead to the differential expression of genes implicated in the disease
Authors: Rane Shraddha S. , Shellard Elan , Adamson Antony , Eyre Steve , Warren Richard B.
Published: September 2024

Psoriasis is an incurable immune‐mediated skin disease, affecting around 1%–3% of the population. Various lines of evidence implicate IL23 as being pivotal in disease. Genetic variants within the IL23 receptor (IL23R) increase the risk of developing psoriasis, and biologic therapies specifically targeting IL23 demonstrated high efficacy in treating disease. IL23 acts via the IL23R, signalling through the STAT3 pathway, mediating the cascade of events that ultimately results in the clinical presentation of psoriasis. Given the essential role of IL23R in disease, it is important to understand the impact of genetic variants on receptor function with respect to downstream gene regulation. Here we developed model systems in CD4+ (Jurkat) and CD8+ (MyLa) T cells to express either the wild type risk or mutant (R381Q) protective form of IL23R. After confirmation that the model system expressed the genes/proteins and had a differential effect on the phosphorylation of STAT3, we used RNAseq to explore differential gene regulation, in particular for genes implicated with risk to psoriasis, at a single time point for both cell types, and in a time course experiment for Jurkat CD4+ T cells. These experiments discovered differentially regulated genes in the cells expressing wild type and mutant IL23R, including HLA‐B, SOCS1, RUNX3, CCR5, CXCR3, CCR9, KLF3, CD28, IRF, SOCS6, TNFAIP and ICAM5, that have been implicated in both the IL23 pathway and psoriasis. These genes have the potential to define a IL23/psoriasis pathway in disease, advancing our understanding of the biology behind the disease.
Optimization of Minocycline‐Containing Bismuth Quadruple Therapy for Helicobacter pylori Rescue Treatment: A Real‐World Evidence Study
Authors: Huang Yu , Qiu Shuhan , Guo Yixian , Chen Jinnan , Li Meixuan , Ding Zhaohui , Zhang Wei , Liang Xiao , Lu Hong
Published: September 2024

Background

The optimal dosage of minocycline remains unclear for Helicobacter pylori (H. pylori) eradication. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of four different regimens with minocycline and metronidazole compared to classical bismuth quadruple therapy for H. pylori rescue treatment.

Materials and Methods

From March 2021 to March 2024, refractory H. pylori‐infected patients with at least two previous treatment failures who received 14‐day therapy with b.i.d. proton pump inhibitor 20 mg and bismuth 220 mg, plus tetracycline 400 mg q.i.d and metronidazole 400 mg q.i.d (BQT), or minocycline 50 mg q.i.d and metronidazole 400 mg q.i.d (PBMn4M4), or minocycline 50 mg t.i.d and metronidazole 400 mg t.i.d (PBMn3M3), or minocycline 50 mg b.i.d and metronidazole 400 mg q.i.d (PBMn2M4), or minocycline 50 mg b.i.d and metronidazole 400 mg t.i.d (PBMn2M3) were included in this retrospective study. H. pylori eradication was assessed by 13C‐urea breath test at least 6 weeks after treatment. All adverse effects during treatment were recorded.

Results

Totally, 823 patients were enrolled: 251 with BQT, 97 with PBMn4M4, 191 with PBMn3M3, 108 with PBMn2M4, and 176 with PBMn2M3. The eradication rates of BQT, PBMn4M4, PBMn3M3, PBMn2M4, and PBMn2M3 were 89.2%, 87.6%, 91.6%, 88.0%, and 91.5%, respectively, by intention‐to‐treat analysis; 96.1%, 97.7%, 97.8%, 96.9%, and 97.6%, respectively, by modified intention‐to‐treat analysis; 97.1%, 97.5%, 97.7%, 96.8%, and 97.6%, respectively, by per‐protocol analysis. Metronidazole resistance did not affect the efficacy of all groups. PBMn2M3 group achieved the greatest compliance and the fewest moderate and severe adverse events.

Conclusions

The novel bismuth‐containing quadruple therapy with a low dose of minocycline and metronidazole is an alternative to classical bismuth quadruple therapy for H. pylori rescue treatment with superior safety and compliance.

Trial Registration

ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT06332599
Differentiating clinical characteristics of perianal inflammatory bowel disease from perianal hidradenitis suppurativa
Authors: Yamanaka‐Takaichi Mika , Nadalian Soheila , Loftus Edward V. , Ehman Eric C. , Todd Austin , Grimaldo Anna B. , Yalon Mariana , Matchett Caroline L. , Patel Nisha B. , Isaq Nasro A. , Raffals Laura E. , Wetter David A. , Murphree Dennis H. , Cima Robert R. , Dozois Eric J. , Goldfarb Noah , Tizhoosh Hamid R. , Alavi Afsaneh
Published: September 2024

Background

Perianal draining tunnels in hidradenitis suppurativa (HS) and perianal fistulizing inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) present diagnostic and management dilemmas.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with perianal disease evaluated at Mayo Clinic from January 1, 1998, through July 31, 2021. Patients' demographic and clinical data were extracted, and 28 clinical features were collected. After experimenting with several machine learning techniques, random forests were used to select the 15 most important clinical features to construct the diagnostic prediction model to distinguish perianal HS from fistulizing perianal IBD.

Results

A total of 263 patients were included (98 with HS, 100 with IBD, and 65 with both IBD and HS). Patients with HS had a higher mean body mass index, a higher smoking rate, and more commonly showed cutaneous manifestations of tunnels and comedones, while fistulas, abscesses, induration, anal tags, ulcers, and anal fissures were more common in patients with IBD. In addition to having lesions in the perianal area, patients with IBD often had lesions in the buttocks and perineum, while those with HS had additional lesions in the axillae and groin. Among the statistically significant features, the 15 most important were identified by random forest: fistula, tunnel, digestive symptom, knife‐cut ulcer, perineum, body mass index, age, axilla, abscess, tags, smoking, groin, genital cutaneous edema, erythema, and bilateral/unilateral.

Conclusions

The results of this study may help differentiate perianal lesions, especially perineal HS and fistulizing perineal IBD, and provide promise for a better therapeutic outcome.
Causal relationship between folic acid and prostate cancer risk: Insights from Mendelian randomization analysis
Authors: Guo Xiaoxiao , Zhang Fengbo , Hao Gangyue
Published: September 2024

Objective

Folic acid is a commonly used dietary supplement of trace element, but it may increase the risk of prostate cancer (PCa). The aim of this study was to investigate the causal relationship between PCa and folic acid supplementation, as well as dietary folate equivalents, using Mendelian randomization (MR) analysis.

Methods

The Genome‐Wide Association Study (GWAS) data of folic acid supplementation and dietary folate equivalents were selected from UK Biobank. Meta‐analysis of GWASs of PCa was obtained from PCa Association Group to Investigate Cancer‐Associated Alterations in the Genome consortium. MR analysis was performed with inverse variance weighted (IVW) method, MR‐Egger regression, simple mode, weighted median, and weighted mode analysis. Heterogeneity and horizontal pleiotropy tests and reverse MR analysis were conducted to assess the robustness and reliability of the causal inference.

Results

Six single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) associated with folic acid supplementation and five SNPs associated with dietary folate equivalents were identified as instrumental variables. Genetically predicted folic acid supplementation was associated with an increased risk of PCa (OR 1.200, p < 0.001, by IVW method), and there was no evidence of heterogeneity, horizontal pleiotropy, or significant reverse causality (all p > 0.05). In contrast, dietary folate equivalents showed no significant correlation with PCa (p > 0.05 for all five MR methods).

Conclusion

This study demonstrated an association between increased risk of PCa and folic acid supplementation, but not with dietary folate equivalents. These findings have implications for public health interventions and personalized preventive strategies for PCa.
Foraging in the darkness: Highly selective tuning of below‐ground larval olfaction to Brassicaceae volatiles in striped flea beetle
Authors: Xiao Yong , Lei Chunmei , Wang Xue , Batool Raufa , Yin Fei , Peng Zhengke , Jing Xiangfeng , Li Zhenyu
Published: September 2024

The olfactory system of above‐ground insects is among the best described perceptual architectures. However, remarkably little is known about how below‐ground insects navigate in the dark for foraging. Here, we investigated host plant preferences, olfactory sensilla and characterise olfactory proteins in below‐ground larvae of the striped flea beetle (SFB) Phyllotreta striolata Fabricius (Coleoptera: Chrysomelidae). Both the adults and larvae of this coleopteran pest cause serious damage to Brassicaceous crops above and below ground, respectively. To elucidate the role of olfactory system in host location of below‐ground larvae, we initially demonstrated that SFB larvae distinctly favoured Brassicaceae over other plant families by two‐choice behavioural bioassay. Subsequently, scanning electron microscopy of sensilla in SFB larval head showed a significant reduction in the number of olfactory sensilla in larvae compared with adults. However, essential olfactory sensilla such as sensilla basiconica are underscoring the indispensability of the larval olfactory system. We selected four larval‐specific odorant binding proteins for functional validation from our previous transcriptome data. Functional studies revealed that PstrOBP23 exhibits robust binding affinity to 24 volatiles of Brassicaceae plants, including seven isothiocyanate compounds. This suggests a pivotal role of PstrOBP23 in the foraging behaviour of the larvae below the ground. Moreover, two ligands displaying strong binding capacity exhibit apparent attractive or repellent activity towards SFB larvae. Our findings provide a crucial insight into the olfactory system of below‐ground larvae in SFB, highlighting the highly selective tuning of larvae specific OBP to host plant volatiles. These results offer potential avenues for developing effective pest control strategies against SFB.
Association Between Psychological Empowerment and Intent to Stay Among Military Hospital Nurses: The Mediating Effects of the Practice Environment and Burnout
Authors: Jin Chaoying , Wang Juncheng , Du Juan , Shi Ruijie
Published: September 2024

Aims

To explore the impact of psychological empowerment on nurses' intent to stay in military hospitals as well as the mediating effects of the practice environment and burnout in this context.

Design

This study employed a cross‐sectional survey approach and followed the Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology (STROBE) guidelines for reporting.

Methods

A total of 1225 nurses from nine military hospitals were recruited via convenience sampling. Questionnaires were distributed and collected via the Questionnaire Star platform. The study variables, including psychological empowerment, the practice environment, burnout and intent to stay, were assessed via self‐report questionnaires. SPSS 23.0 software was used to conduct descriptive and correlation analyses. Additionally, PROCESS Model 6 was employed to examine the mediating effects.

Results

Psychological empowerment is positively associated with nurses' intent to stay. Mediation analysis revealed that the practice environment, burnout and the chain mediating effect of the practice environment and burnout accounted for 54.5%, 2.8% and 1.5% of the total effect respectively.

Conclusion

Psychological empowerment affects nurses' intent to stay not only directly but also indirectly via the practice environment and burnout.

Implications for the Profession

Nursing managers may consider utilising psychological empowerment as a management strategy to enhance nurses' perceived practice environment, reduce burnout and ultimately increase nurses' intent to stay. This approach has the potential to lower turnover rates among nurses.

Patient or Public Contribution

Questionnaires completed by nurses were used to explore the relationships among psychological empowerment, the practice environment, burnout and intent to stay in this context.
Co‐Designing Nurse Practitioner Roles in a Tertiary Hospital: A Qualitative Exploration of Patterns and Underlying Dynamics
Authors: Dehennin Laurence , Vermassen Frank , Decoene Elsie , Duprez Veerle , Kinnaer Lise‐Marie , Van Hecke Ann
Published: September 2024

Aims

To explore patterns and dynamics during the co‐design process of nurse practitioners' role development in three departments in a Belgian tertiary hospital.

Design

Participatory action research was utilised in conjunction with principles of a Grounded Theory approach to explore patterns and dynamics.

Methods

Sixteen meetings were conducted between January and June 2021 with interdisciplinary teams to develop the roles. Thirteen exploratory interviews were held with the stakeholders involved between March and June 2022. All meetings and interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. Data were systematically analysed using researcher triangulation and thematic analysis.

Results

Stakeholders' initial conception of the nurse practitioner roles affected development. A dynamic interplay of individual, team‐related and contextual (e.g., financial and legal) factors shaped these conceptions. Through co‐design, stakeholders' conception evolved as insights were shared, misconceptions challenged and perspectives broadened. Physicians generally the developmental process, while nursing leadership was more fragmented.

Conclusion

This study identifies patterns and dynamics in interdisciplinary teams during the developmental process. The key findings underpin the crucial role of stakeholders' conceptions, use of co‐design and leadership in this process. Therefore, a thorough understanding of initial conceptions is ess, and efforts should be directed towards providing sufficient knowledge and experience to prevent misconceptions. Additionally, this study emphasises the significance of a balanced team composition that incorporates diverse conceptions of the role. Finally, actions should be taken to empower leadership among nurses.

Impact

Identified dynamics offer insights for healthcare organisations developing nurse practitioner roles. Educational institutions can use these insights to enhance healthcare professionals' curricula, preparing healthcare professionals for evolving advanced nursing roles and leadership. Additionally, it emphasises the necessity for policy work to establish a legal framework for nurse practitioners in Belgium.

Reporting Method

The ‘Standards for Reporting Qualitative Research’ were used for reporting.

Patient or Public Contribution

This study did not involve direct participation from patients or the public.
Job Characteristic Profiles and Presenteeism Among Shift Nurses: A Latent Profile Analysis Based on the Job Demands–Resources Model
Authors: Nam Song Yi , Lee Haeyoung , Ryu Eunjung , Hong Hye Chong , Kang Minkyung , Min Ari
Published: September 2024

Aim(s)

To investigate job characteristic profiles based on the job demands–resources (JD‐R) model and the association between job characteristic profiles and presenteeism.

Design

Cross‐sectional study.

Methods

Data were collected from shift nurses in South Korea in January 2023 using an online survey. This study included 544 nurses working in tertiary and general hospitals in South Korea. The participants were classified into four job characteristic profiles based on the JD‐R model using latent profile analysis. Multiple logistic and linear regression analyses were performed to examine the association between job characteristic profiles and presenteeism.

Results

Four profiles were derived from the latent profile analysis: low strain–low motivation, high strain–low motivation, low strain–high motivation and high strain–high motivation. The high strain–low motivation, low strain–high motivation and high strain–high motivation groups were 1.74, 1.37 and 3.51 times more likely to experience presenteeism than the low strain–low motivation group respectively. The number of days worked while sick and the level of reduced job productivity was also the highest in the high strain–high motivation group. In addition, general health, multimorbidities and insomnia were significant factors affecting presenteeism, number of days worked while sick and productivity loss among shift nurses.

Conclusions

This study found that even with higher levels of job resources, work environments with high levels of job demands were associated with higher rates of presenteeism.

Impact

Study findings suggest that various strategies are needed to improve the physical and mental health of shift nurses, and create a healthy organisational environment by reducing excessive job demands to reduce presenteeism and increase productivity.

Reporting Method

STROBE guidelines.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
The Impact of the COVID‐19 Pandemic on Nurses' and Junior Doctors' Workloads
Authors: Doleman Gemma , Leo Annemarie De , Bloxsome Dianne
Published: September 2024

Aims

To explore the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on nurses' and junior doctors' workload, changes to direct care and the impact of workload on resource allocation.

Design

Mixed‐method design was used.

Methods

Data were collected from direct observation, hospital administrative database and a survey. Nurses and junior doctors were observed on two COVID‐19 wards and one non‐COVID‐19 ward using a semi‐structured observation schedule. Survey data were collected from nurses and junior doctors that had worked on the COVID‐19 ward during the pandemic. Patient data were collected from Web Patient Administration System during the period of March–August 2021 and compared to March–August 2022.

Results

The results of this study indicated that the workloads of nurses and junior doctors changed on the COVID‐19 wards. Nurses on the COVID‐19 ward spent less time on administration, communication and documentation compared to nurses working on the non‐COVID‐19 ward. For junior doctors, less time was being spent on direct care activities and administrative work compared to the non‐COVID ward. On the COVID‐19 wards, patients were older and had a shorter length of stay compared to the year before. Five themes were identified from the surveys, staffing shortages resulting in higher workloads and the need for overtime, unforeseen time to undertake tasks, lack of support and physical health and patient care compromised.

Conclusion

The study highlights the need for systemic changes to staffing shortages and elevated workloads to improve the compromised mental and physical health caused during the pandemic and to retain the workforce for future sustainability.

Implications

As we collectively reflect on the lessons learned from this unprecedented period, it is imperative to address the challenges experienced proactively, fostering a healthcare environment that prioritises the well‐being of its front line heroes and, by extension, the quality of patient care.

Reporting Method

STROBE.

Patient or Public Contribution

No patient or public contribution.
Melanism in Polymorphic Terrestrial Snakes: A Meta‐Analysis and Systematic Review
Authors: Sahlean Tiberiu Constantin , Martin Ryan A. , Spaseni Petronel , Gherghel Iulian , Strugariu Alexandru
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim

Colour polymorphic populations constitute excellent model systems for testing ecological and evolutionary hypotheses, as alternate colourations are associated with differences in various biological, behavioural and life‐history traits. Melanism is the most common and most obvious form of polymorphism. In reptiles in general (and snakes in particular), thermal melanism has been a popular hypothesis used to explain the appearance of black individuals. It suggests that a trade‐off exists between superior thermoregulation and reduced protection through the loss of crypsis. Surprisingly, despite the growing body of literature available, to date, there are only two qualitative reviews on the evolutionary significance of melanism in reptiles and no quantitative synthesis. We conducted the first systematic review and meta‐analysis summarising the current knowledge on melanism in polymorphic terrestrial snakes and synthesised the evidence for an adaptive advantage of the melanistic morph.

Location

Northern Hemisphere.

Taxon

Polymorphic terrestrial snakes.

Results

Mean prevalence of melanism is 31% with no significant differences between species. Annual precipitation was a significant moderator of melanism prevalence. Our results revealed no significant differences in odds ratios of melanism between sexes or in mean body size.

Main Conclusions

Environmental plasticity can be considered the primary cause of melanism, possibly as a result of seasonal climatic variations, a result corroborated by the formal meta‐analysis conducted. Conclusions from the meta‐analysis are that melanism in snakes follows Gloger's rule, as is the case in birds and mammals, and as opposed to the thermal melanism hypothesis. Further, our findings do not lend support for other predictions from the thermal melanism hypothesis, such as skewed frequency of melanistics in favour of males or females, or larger body sizes in black individuals. Our results hold implications for the future diversity of animal populations, as climate change is predicted to decrease the degree of colour variation.
The Interaction Between the Linnean and Darwinian Shortfalls Affects Our Understanding of the Evolutionary Dynamics Driving Diversity Patterns of New World Coralsnakes
Authors: Frateles Lívia Estéfane Fernandes , Tavares Guilherme Rogie Gonçalves , Nakamura Gabriel , da Silva Nelson Jorge , Terribile Levi Carina , Diniz‐Filho José Alexandre F.
Published: September 2024

Aim

In this study, we sought to understand how the Linnean shortfall (i.e., the lack of knowledge about species taxonomy) interacts with the Darwinian shortfall (i.e., the lack of knowledge about phylogenetic relationships among species), which potentially jeopardises geographical patterns in estimates of speciation rates.

Location

New World.

Taxon

Coralsnakes (Serpentes: Elapidae).

Methods

We created an index of taxonomic uncertainty (ITU) that measures the likelihood of current species being split after undergoing future taxonomic revisions. The ITU was used in simulations where species with higher taxonomic uncertainty had a higher likelihood of having their phylogenetic branches split, generating new hypothetical species along their geographic ranges. We estimated the speciation rates before and after the split of taxonomically uncertain species.

Results

We found that a high number of coralsnake species display substantial taxonomic uncertainty, positively correlated with the latitude of the species' geographical range centroid. The estimated speciation rates based on currently available data have a weak relationship with latitude. However, after incorporating taxonomic uncertainty into the phylogeny, we detect a higher positive correlation between speciation rate and latitude.

Main Conclusions

The observed change in speciation rates following the incorporation of taxonomic uncertainty highlights how such uncertainty can undermine the empirical evaluation of geographical patterns in speciation rates, revealing an interaction between the latitudinal taxonomic gradient and the latitudinal diversity gradient. Given that taxonomic changes can alter the number of species recognised as valid over time, our study highlights the need to incorporate taxonomic uncertainty into macroecological and macroevolutionary studies, enhancing the robustness of patterns inferred from these data.
First Report of Root Rot Caused by Fusarium avenaceum and Fusarium flocciferum on Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus in China
Authors: Qi Hexing , Qi Xiangxing , Xu Wenhua , An Zhouluo , Fan Taiyan
Published: September 2024

Astragalus membranaceus var. mongholicus (Mongolian milkvetch) is one of the most important traditional Chinese medicinal plants. In July 2021, root rot of A. membranaceus var. mongholicus was found in a field in Tongren City, Huangnan Tibetan Autonomous Prefecture, Qinghai Province, China. The aboveground part of the plants exhibited yellowing, wilting and defoliation in severe cases. Seven fungal isolates were obtained, and their pathogenicity, morphology and phylogeny were analysed. A pathogenicity test was performed using the scratch and root irrigation methods, and the results showed that all seven isolates caused root rot on inoculated plants. Based on morphological characteristics and phylogenetic analysis of multi‐locus sequences (ITS, translation elongation factor [TEF‐1α], and RNA polymerase II beta subunit [RPB2] genes), two isolates were identified as Fusarium avenaceum, and five isolates were identified as F. flocciferum. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of F. avenaceum and F. flocciferum causing root rot of A. membranaceus var. mongholicus in China.
Strengthening Relationships Within Intensive Psychiatric Care: Staff Perceptions of an Attachment Training Intervention
Authors: Duffy Aiden , Goodall Karen , Carmichael David , Harper Sean , Sivyer Katy , Carnelley Kathy , Maguire Tess , Newman‐Taylor Katherine
Published: September 2024

Introduction

Intensive psychiatric care units can be challenging environments in which to build strong staff‐patient relationships. Attachment theory may provide a useful model for strengthening relationships in this setting.

Aim

The aim of this study was to explore staff perceptions of the utility of attachment theory for understanding patient behaviour in the intensive psychiatric care setting.

Methods

Semi‐structured interviews were conducted with 11 multi‐disciplinary staff members. Interviews focused on the staff member's experience of learning about attachment theory and applying this perspective to their work on the ward. Transcripts were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

The analysis led to the development of three themes: engaging the reflective self, new perspective on others and cohesive ward culture.

Conclusion

Staff reported that learning about attachment theory supported them to better understand patient distress and associated behaviours. Notably, staff also used attachment theory to reflect on both their own internal states and the internal states of their colleagues. These reflections were suggested to bolster staff wellbeing and improve the ward milieu.

Implications for Practice

Integrating attachment theory into team formulation, ward rounds and reflective practice groups could have a benefit for clinical practice, staff wellbeing and team cohesion in this setting.
Smartphone‐based scans of palate models of newborns with cleft lip and palate: Outlooks for three‐dimensional image capturing and machine learning plate tool
Authors: Santos José Wittor de Macêdo , Mueller Andreas Albert , Benitez Benito K. , Lill Yoriko , Nalabothu Prasad , Muniz Francisco Wilker Mustafa Gomes
Published: September 2024

Objectives

To evaluate the performance of smartphone scanning applications (apps) in acquiring 3D meshes of cleft palate models. Secondarily, to validate a machine learning (ML) tool for computing automated presurgical plate (PSP).

Materials and Methods

We conducted a comparative analysis of two apps on 15 cleft palate models: five unilateral cleft lip and palate (UCLP), five bilateral cleft lip and palate (BCLP) and five isolated cleft palate (ICP). The scans were performed with and without a mirror to simulate intraoral acquisition. The 3D reconstructions were compared to control reconstructions acquired using a professional intraoral scanner using open‐source software.

Results

Thirty 3D scans were acquired by each app, totalling 60 scans. The main findings were in the UCLP sample, where the KIRI scans without a mirror (0.22 ± 0.03 mm) had a good performance with a deviation from the ground truth comparable to the control group (0.14 ± 0.13 mm) (p = .653). Scaniverse scans with a mirror showed the lowest accuracy of all the samples. The ML tool was able to predict the landmarks and automatically generate the plates, except in ICP models. KIRI scans' plates showed better performance with (0.22 ± 0.06 mm) and without mirror (0.18 ± 0.05 mm), being comparable with controls (0.16 ± 0.08 mm) (p = .954 and p = .439, respectively).

Conclusions

KIRI Engine performed better in scanning UCLP models without a mirror. The ML tool showed a high capability for morphology recognition and automated PSP generation.
Wearing the mandibular advancement orthosis and dental movements: Contribution of a digital monitoring protocol
Authors: Gay M. , Ducret M. , Richert R. , Buiret G.
Published: September 2024

Objectives

Oral appliance (OA) has been increasingly used for the treatment of obstructive sleep apnoea hypopnea syndrome (OSAHS). OAs work by propelling the mandible, increasing the upper airway calibre and reducing collapsibility. While they have shown efficacy in reducing OSAHS, long‐term use can lead to adverse effects, such as dental displacement. The present study focuses on the impact on dental displacements of the NARVAL® computer‐aided design and manufacturing OA from the ResMed laboratory.

Materials and Methods

The study included 39 patients aged 18 or older who were treated for OSAHS using OAs initiated between 2019 and 2021 and had initial digital dental impressions. A new digital print was taken for each patient using the TRIOS 4 Wireless intra‐oral scanner from 3SHAPE. Dental displacement was measured using a 3D system's GEOMAGIC design X 3D reverse engineering software. The study analysed different blocks of teeth in both the maxillary and mandibular arches. Statistical analysis was conducted to determine the significance of dental displacements.

Results

Patients had been wearing the OA for an average of 2.5 years. The study found dental displacements in both the maxillary and mandibular arches. However, these displacements were not statistically significant. Qualitative analysis revealed palatoversion and vestibuloversion, while quantitative analysis showed minor dental displacements.

Conclusion

This study on patients wearing the NARVAL® OA for an average of 2.5 years found dental displacements in both the maxillary and mandibular arches. However, these displacements were not statistically significant. The results suggest that the OA, designed using a complete digital workflow, did not significantly impact dental positions. To confirm the impact, further investigations with larger sample sizes, an exclusively digital protocol and a control group are required.
The effect of intraoperative methadone on postoperative opioid requirements in children undergoing orchiopexy: A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Uhrbrand Camilla G. , Gadegaard Karsten H. , Aliuskeviciene Asta , Ahlburg Peter , Nikolajsen Lone
Published: September 2024

Background

Children undergoing outpatient surgery are at risk of inadequate postoperative pain control. Methadone has a long duration of action and an intraoperative dose may provide stable analgesia throughout the postoperative period. Intraoperative methadone has been shown to improve pain control in adolescents but its use for postoperative pain in pediatric patients undergoing outpatient surgery has not been studied before. Therefore, we conducted a double‐blind randomized placebo‐controlled trial to investigate the effects of a single dose of intraoperative methadone in children aged less than 5 years undergoing orchiopexy for undescended testis.

Methods

A total of 68 children were randomized to receive either methadone (0.1 mg/kg) or isotonic saline following induction of anesthesia. Exclusion criteria included preterm birth, previous scrotal surgery, and parents' inability to consent. Primary outcomes were opioid requirements (first primary outcome) and pain intensity in the post‐anesthesia care unit. Secondary outcomes included episodes of desaturation and time until readiness to discharge from the post‐anesthesia care unit, sleep on the first postoperative night, pain intensity, and opioid requirements at home until the evening on the first postoperative day. Follow‐up was 4 days.

Results

Sixty children completed the study (age, mean ± SD, 26.2 ± 13.9 months), 29 children received methadone, and 31 children received placebo. Eighteen children required opioids in the post‐anesthesia care unit, five children in the methadone group (proportion = 0.17, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.07, 0.36) compared to thirteen patients in the placebo group (0.42, 95% CI: 0.26, 0.60) (mean difference = −0.24 and 95% CI: −0.03, −0.47) (p = 0.037). Five children in the methadone group (0.17, 95% CI: 0.03, 0.31) versus ten in the placebo group (0.32, 95% CI: 0.16, 0.49) had a face, legs, activity, cry, consolability score of ≥5 in the post‐anesthesia care unit (mean difference = −0.15, 95% CI: −0.36, 0.06) (p = .179). More children in the placebo group woke up due to pain the first night following surgery (seven children vs. one child). The methadone group had a longer stay in the post‐anesthesia care unit. There were no differences between the two groups regarding the other secondary outcomes.

Conclusion

A single dose of intraoperative methadone reduces short‐term postoperative opioid requirements in children after orchiopexy for nondescended testes but prolongs the duration of their stay in the post‐anesthesia care unit.
Moral expertise as skilled practice
Authors: Stroud Sarah
Published: September 2024

Contemporary discussions of moral expertise have raised a host of problems for the very idea of a “moral expert.” This article interrogates the conception of moral expertise that such discussions seem to assume and proposes instead that we understand moral expertise as a species of practical skill. On this model, a skilled moral agent is more similar to a skilled pianist than she is to a theoretical expert (for instance, an expert on the War of 1812). The article argues both that it is more natural to understand the moral “expert” as excelling in a form of skilled practice and that such a conception would render moot many of the concerns which preoccupy contemporary discussions.
Cross pathogenicity, host range and molecular characteristics of Fusarium oxysporum species complex populations isolated from tobacco in Jilin Province, China
Authors: Xie Zhao , Li Huanyu , Gao Chong , Wang Jun , Zhang Xiaoyan , Lu Baohui , Yang Lina , Zhang Yanjing , Gao Jie
Published: September 2024

Fusarium wilt of tobacco (FWT) is a globally significant disease responsible for major losses in tobacco yield and quality. A total of 320 Fusarium oxysporum species complex (FOSC) isolates derived from five tobacco‐growing regions in Jilin province, China, have been confirmed as the predominant pathogens causing FWT, including F. tobaccum, F. cugenangense, F. odoratissimum and F. foetens. In this study, the results indicated that differences in the virulence of the representative isolates from tobacco from the same Fusarium species were significant. Aside from infecting tobacco, the virulence of these representative FOSC isolates differed on chilli and other crops, and they were not pathogenic or were weakly pathogenic to a further 20 crops. Six strains of formae speciales (ff. sp.) of F. oxysporum had the strongest virulence on their original hosts and were not or weakly pathogenic to tobacco. Joint analysis of the pg1‐pg5‐pgx1‐pgx4 genes indicated that 21 isolates of F. cugenangense were divided into four branches, which were clustered with different ff. sp. of F. oxysporum; five isolates of F. foetens were clustered in a branch with f. sp. fragariae, which were not pathogenic to strawberries; six isolates of F. tobaccum and five isolates of F. odoratissimum comprised independent branches and did not cluster with any other f. sp. of F. oxysporum. In sum, none of the FOSC isolates causing FWT in Jilin exhibited tobacco specificity. Our findings further confirmed that FOSC isolates from tobacco could be distinguished into F. tobaccum, F. cugenangense, F. odoratissimum and F. foetens.
Control of rhizomania in sugar beet—A success story made possible by resistance breeding
Authors: Benjes Kristin , Varrelmann Mark , Liebe Sebastian
Published: September 2024

The economic success of sugar beet production depends largely on the control of various pathogens and pests. Beet necrotic yellow vein virus (BNYVV) has historically been a major threat to sugar beet growers because of the high yield losses and the fact that the virus is transmitted by a soilborne protist vector that cannot be controlled. Resistance breeding began after the disease was first described in 1959 and led to the identification of two monogenic resistance genes. Rz1 was the first resistance gene to be introduced into all varieties, enabling sugar beet production under high disease pressure. However, the widespread use of a single resistance gene resulted in high selection pressure on the virus population. As a result, resistance‐breaking of Rz1 was first reported in the early 2000s in the United States and later in many other countries. The mechanism of resistance‐breaking is based on mutations in the viral pathogenicity factor P25 and the presence of an additional RNA5 species. The second resistance gene being used in breeding is Rz2, which is based on a different resistance mechanism and is highly effective at sites where Rz1 has been overcome by the virus. In addition, Rz2 was the first rhizomania resistance gene to be cloned, and the triple gene block I of BNYVV was identified as the corresponding avirulence gene. This article highlights that resistance breeding has been key to the control of rhizomania, but history also shows that re‐emergence of the disease due to resistance‐breaking remains a permanent threat.
Why Teach Hebrew Bible, New Testament, and Qur'an to Undergraduate US University Students?
Authors: Sabbath Roberta
Published: September 2024

Introducing students to the similarities and connections among the Hebrew Bible, New Testament, and Qur'an is a means to introduce students to a shared source of humanity, beauty, wisdom, and solace. This article outlines a literature class that uses comparatist strategies to introduce these three foundational religious texts as literary works. Figural and thematic strategies reveal the development of stories, characters, ideas, and values. Cultural studies strategies demonstrate the profound effects that the texts have had on our notions about our relationships and responsibilities to ourselves, our families, and our world. Students report a better understanding of their own spiritualties, a greater acceptance of their own identities, and an increased appreciation of the diversity of their communities.