bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of primary‐care led, faecal immunochemical test‐based, triage of new‐onset colorectal symptoms on time to diagnosis of colorectal cancer—An observational study
Authors: Atwal Gurpreet K. , Digby Jayne , Nobes Jennifer , Strachan Judith , Mowat Craig
Published: July 2024

Aim

Since December 2015, a faecal immunochemical test (FIT) has been provided to primary care in NHS Tayside as an adjunct to clinical acumen in the assessment of new‐onset bowel symptoms. The aim of this work was to assess the impact of this approach on time to diagnosis of colorectal cancer (CRC).

Method

NHS Tayside Cancer audit data from January 2013 to December 2019 were reviewed to identify all CRC patients diagnosed via the primary‐care referral pathway for a period before and after the introduction of FIT. Their electronic patient records were accessed and date of referral and any contemporaneous FIT and full blood count (FBC) result were recorded. Time from referral to diagnosis of CRC was calculated for each patient and compared between subgroups.

Results

The study cohort consisted of 959 patients: 378 and 581 from the time periods before and after the introduction of FIT, respectively. The median time to diagnosis before FIT was 30 days [interquartile range (IQR) 16–57 days] versus 25 days (IQR 14–47 days) following the introduction of FIT (p = 0.006). Following the introduction of FIT, patients who completed a FIT had a median of time to diagnosis of 23 days (IQR 14–43 days) compared with 30 days (IQR 16–62 days) for patients not completing a FIT (p = 0.019). FBC results were available for 97.5% of FIT patients to aid safety‐netting of patients with a low or undetectable faecal haemoglobin concentration.

Conclusion

The introduction of FIT‐based triage of new bowel symptoms in primary care as an adjunct to clinical acumen is associated with a reduced time to CRC diagnosis.
Feasibility, reliability and satisfaction of (automated) capillary carcinoembryonic antigen measurements for future home‐based blood sampling: the prospective CASA‐I study
Authors: Voigt Kelly R. , Wullaert Lissa , Gobardhan P. D. , Doornebosch P. G. , Verhoef Cornelis , Husson Olga , Ramakers Christian , Grünhagen Dirk J.
Published: July 2024

Aim

Follow‐up for colorectal cancer (CRC) necessitates regular monitoring of carcinoembryonic antigen (CEA) at the hospital. Capillary home‐based blood collection, including minimally invasive techniques such as lancet sampling or an automated upper arm device (TAP‐II), has the potential to replace a significant portion of hospital‐based blood sampling, thereby enhancing self‐reliance and quality of life. The objectives of this study were to assess the feasibility, reliability and preference for CEA blood collection.

Methods

Baseline venous and capillary (by lancet and TAP‐II) blood samples were collected from 102 participants, including 20 CRC patients with elevated CEA levels, 60 CRC patients undergoing postoperative outpatient monitoring and 20 healthy volunteers. The second group performed capillary blood collections at home on two consecutive follow‐up appointments and subsequently sent them to the hospital. Satisfaction was assessed via patient reported outcome measures on pain, burden, ease of use and preference.

Results

The Pearson's correlation test of all usable samples resulted in a linear coefficient of 0.998 (95% CI 0.997–0.998) for the TAP‐II method and 0.997 (95% CI 0.996–0.998) for the lancet method, both compared to venipuncture. Following the initial blood collection, 86% of the participants (n = 102) favoured the TAP‐II, rating it as the least painful and burdensome option. After two home‐based blood samples, the preference for the TAP‐II method persisted, with 64% of the patients endorsing its use.

Conclusion

This study demonstrated the feasibility of home‐based capillary sampling of CEA. The TAP‐II blood collection is the most reliable method and is preferred by patients over venipuncture and lancet sampling.
The last stand: Demographic and population genomic analysis reveals terminal endangerment in tropical timber species Vatica guangxiensis
Authors: Luo Wenji , Tang Qian , Chattopadhyay Balaji , Garg Kritika M. , Rheindt Frank E. , Wee Alison K. S.
Published: July 2024

Tropical and subtropical trees provide key ecosystem services but are facing global population decline due to logging, habitat degradation, land conversion, and climate change. Vatica guangxiensis used to be a characteristic timber species of China's tropical forests but is now terminally endangered (280 individuals) and fragmented into three relictual populations in southwest China. Generating genome‐wide DNA for ∼82% of all living tree individuals of this species complex, we found evidence for a late Pliocene division into two species‐level lineages that have not had gene flow for approximately 3 million years. All three relictual populations exhibited a loss of genetic diversity and recent bottlenecks. In addition, forward simulations indicated a likely population collapse in all three populations within the next century. Our study generates a model framework for the integration of genomic evidence—including evolutionary history, current genetic variation, and future projections—into conservation planning.
Biodiversity monitoring in Europe: User and policy needs
Authors: Moersberger Hannah , Valdez Jose , Martin Juliette G. C. , Junker Jessica , Georgieva Ivelina , Bauer Silke , Beja Pedro , Breeze Tom D. , Fernandez Miguel , Fernández Néstor , Brotons Lluís , Jandt Ute , Bruelheide Helge , Kissling W. Daniel , Langer Christian , Liquete Camino , Lumbierres Maria , Solheim Anne Lyche , Maes Joachim , Morán‐Ordóñez Alejandra , Moreira Francisco , Pe'er Guy , Santana Joana , Shamoun‐Baranes Judy , Smets Bruno , Capinha César , McCallum Ian , Pereira Henrique M. , Bonn Aletta
Published: July 2024

To achieve the goals of the 2030 Global Biodiversity Framework, the European Biodiversity Strategy, and the EU Green Deal, biodiversity monitoring is critical. Monitoring efforts in Europe, however, suffer from gaps and biases in taxonomy, spatial coverage, and temporal resolution, resulting in fragmented and disconnected data. To assess user and policy needs in biodiversity monitoring, we employed a four‐step user‐centered stakeholder engagement process with over 300 stakeholders including a public stakeholder workshop, online survey, interviews, and a meeting with experts from 18 EU member states, the European Commission, and the European Environment Agency. The stakeholders identified policy needs, current challenges, and potential solutions. Based on the policy and stakeholder assessment, we recommend establishing a European Biodiversity Observation Coordinating Centre to optimize existing observation efforts, harmonize data, and enhance our ability to predict and respond to key challenges related to biodiversity loss in Europe.
A phase I randomized study to evaluate safety, pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of SIR2446M, a selective RIPK1 inhibitor, in healthy participants
Authors: Sun Ana Liza Andresan , Gillies John David , Shen Yang , Deng Huajun , Xue Fenchao , Ma Yongfen , Song Linan
Published: July 2024

Activation of receptor‐interacting protein kinase 1 (RIPK1), a broadly expressed serine/threonine protein kinase, by pro‐inflammatory cytokines and pathogens can result in apoptosis, necroptosis, or inflammation. RIPK1 inhibition has been shown to reduce inflammation and cell damage in preclinical studies and may have therapeutic potential for degenerative and inflammatory diseases. SIR2446 is a potent and selective novel small molecule RIPK1 kinase inhibitor. This phase I, randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled study in Australia (ACTRN12621001621808) evaluated the safety (primary objective), pharmacokinetics, and pharmacodynamics of single (3–600 mg) and multiple (5–400 mg for 10 days) ascending oral doses of SIR2446M (SIR2446 magnesium salt form) in healthy adults from Nov 24, 2021, until May 01, 2023. All treatment‐emergent adverse events (TEAEs) were mild/moderate. The most reported TEAEs were vascular access site pain, headache, and rash morbilliform. SIR2446M plasma half‐lives ranged from 11 to 19 h and there were no major deviations from dose proportionality for maximum concentration and area under the curve across doses. Renal excretion of unchanged SIR2446 was minimal. No marked accumulation was observed (mean accumulation ratio, 1.2–1.6) after multiple daily doses. A high‐fat meal mildly reduced the exposure but was not considered clinically significant. SIR2446M had a rapid and sustained inhibitory effect on the activity of RIPK1, with an overall 90% target engagement at repeated doses ranging from 30 to 400 mg in peripheral blood mononuclear cells ex vivo stimulated to undergo necroptosis. The favorable safety, pharmacokinetic, and pharmacodynamic profile of SIR2446M in healthy participants supports its further clinical development in patients with degenerative and inflammatory diseases.
Age‐related off‐label drug prescribing in pediatric patients in South Korea and consistency of labeling compared to the United States, Europe, and Japan
Authors: Park Bojung , Lee Hyesung , Choi Hyeyoung , Lee Jaehyun
Published: July 2024

Insufficient labeling information regarding the appropriate age for prescribing drugs to the pediatric population is challenging. This study aimed to analyze the off‐label prescription of age‐related drugs for pediatric patients using claims data from South Korea and to assess the consistency of the approved age in South Korea, the United States, Europe, and Japan. In 2020, 1004 unique drugs were prescribed to the pediatric population in South Korea. We found that 641 drugs (63.8%, p < 0.0001) were related to off‐label prescriptions for age‐related use at least once, and the total number of off‐label prescriptions was 2,236,669 (62.2%, p < 0.0001). Chlorpheniramine (28%) was the most frequently prescribed drug for pediatric patients with an age‐related off‐label, followed by budesonide (9%) and epinephrine (9%). The degree of agreement in the approved age range for 641 off‐label drugs across countries was assessed using the overall kappa coefficient. We observed slight agreement in labeling across all countries (κ: 0.16, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.14–0.18). The highest degree of agreement was observed between the United States and Europe (0.41, 0.37–0.45) due to pediatric‐population‐specific legislation. South Korea showed the lowest degree of agreement with the United States and Europe (0.10, 0.06–0.14). The United States, Europe, and Japan showed fair agreement (0.23, 0.21–0.26). However, the degree of agreement between South Korea, the United States, and Japan (0.09, 0.06–0.11) and South Korea, Europe, and Japan (0.08, 0.05–0.10) was low. This study highlights the need for South Korean regulatory agencies to consider introducing pediatric legislation to prescribe evidence‐based drugs for safe and effective use.
Variational autoencoders for generative modeling of drug dosing determinants in renal, hepatic, metabolic, and cardiac disease states
Authors: Titar Raginee R. , Ramanathan Murali
Published: July 2024

Physiological determinants of drug dosing (PDODD) are a promising approach for precision dosing. This study investigates the alterations of PDODD in diseases and evaluates a variational autoencoder (VAE) artificial intelligence model for PDODD. The PDODD panel contained 20 biomarkers, and 13 renal, hepatic, diabetes, and cardiac disease status variables. Demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements (body weight, body surface area, waist circumference), blood (plasma volume, albumin), renal (creatinine, glomerular filtration rate, urine flow, and urine albumin to creatinine ratio), and hepatic (R‐value, hepatic steatosis index, drug‐induced liver injury index), blood cell (systemic inflammation index, red cell, lymphocyte, neutrophils, and platelet counts) biomarkers, and medical questionnaire responses from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included. The tabular VAE (TVAE) generative model was implemented with the Synthetic Data Vault Python library. The joint distributions of the generated data vs. test data were compared using graphical univariate, bivariate, and multidimensional projection methods and distribution proximity measures. The PDODD biomarkers related to disease progression were altered as expected in renal, hepatic, diabetes, and cardiac diseases. The continuous PDODD panel variables generated by the TVAE satisfactorily approximated the distribution in the test data. The TVAE‐generated distributions of some discrete variables deviated from the test data distribution. The age distribution of TVAE‐generated continuous variables was similar to the test data. The TVAE algorithm demonstrated potential as an AI model for continuous PDODD and could be useful for generating virtual populations for clinical trial simulations.
Evaluation and application of American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System for improved malignancy detection in paediatric thyroid nodules
Authors: Ortega Carlos A. , Gallant Jean‐Nicolas , Kilic Irem , Patel Siddharth , Chen Sheau‐Chiann , Wood C. Burton , Adams Ryan , Azer Fadi , Wang Huiying , Liang Jiancong , Duffus Sara H. , Belcher Ryan H. , Andreotti Rochelle F. , Krishnasarma Rekha , Lim‐Dunham Jennifer E. , Barkan Güliz A. , Ye Fei , Weiss Vivian L.
Published: July 2024

Objective

The American College of Radiology Thyroid Imaging Reporting and Data System (TI‐RADS) is a widely used method for the management of adult thyroid nodules. However, its use in paediatric patients is controversial because adult fine needle aspiration biopsy (FNAB) recommendations may lead to delayed diagnoses of cancer in children. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the performance of TI‐RADS in paediatric thyroid nodules and to tailor FNAB recommendations for children.

Methods

Consecutive surgically resected paediatric thyroid nodules from two tertiary care centres between 2003 and 2021 were reviewed. Ultrasounds were blindly scored by radiologists according to TI‐RADS. Management recommendations based on TI‐RADS were evaluated. Various modelling methodologies were used to determine the optimal cutoff for FNAB in children.

Results

Of the 96 patients, 79 (82%) were female and the median age at surgery was 16.1 years. Fifty (52%) nodules were malignant on surgical pathology. The area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of TI‐RADS for predicting malignancy was 0.78. Adult TI‐RADS recommendations would have resulted in 4% of cancerous nodules being lost to follow‐up. Modifications to TI‐RADS (FNAB of all TR3 nodules ≥1.5 cm, FNAB of TR4 and TR5 nodules ≥0.5 cm, surveillance of nodules ≥1 cm, consider surgery for nodules >4 cm) reduced this missed malignancy rate to 0%.

Conclusions

TI‐RADS can risk‐stratify paediatric thyroid nodules. However, the system requires modifications to reduce the missed malignancy rate in paediatric thyroid nodules. Our data suggest that lower size thresholds for FNAB are warranted in children.
Severe brain injury and trends of gestational‐age‐related neurodevelopmental outcomes in infants born very preterm: A population cohort study
Authors: Wang Lan‐Wan , Chu Chi‐Hsiang , Lin Yung‐Chieh , Huang Chao‐Ching
Published: July 2024

Aim

To investigate the impact of severe neonatal brain injury (SNBI) on gestational age‐related trends in neurodevelopmental impairment (NDI) outcome in infants born very preterm.

Method

A population‐based cohort study recruited 1091 infants born at a gestational age of less than 31 weeks between 2011 and 2020. The trends in neonatal morbidities, mortality, and 24‐month NDI severity (no/mild, moderate, severe) by epoch (2011–2015, 2016–2020) and gestational age (22–25 weeks, 26–28 weeks, 29–30 weeks) were determined in infants with and without SNBI inclusion.

Results

There was increased antenatal steroid use and higher maternal education and socioeconomic status over time. The rates of neonatal morbidities and mortality had no temporal changes. Among 825 infants with follow‐up, those in the 22 to 25 weeks gestational age group had declining trends in cerebral palsy and severe cognitive impairment, with decreased rates of severe NDI from 19% to 8% across epochs, particularly in those without SNBI (from 16% to 2%). Relative to its occurrence in epoch 2011 to 2015, risk of severe NDI was significantly reduced in epoch 2016 to 2020 (adjusted relative risk 0.39, 95% confidence interval 0.16–0.96) for infants born at 22 to 25 weeks gestational age, and the risk dropped even lower in these infants without SNBI (0.12, 0.02–0.84).

Interpretation

Infants born at 22 to 25 weeks gestational age had decreased rates of severe NDI in the decade between 2011 and 2020, particularly those without SNBI. The improvement might be attributed to better perinatal/neonatal and after‐discharge care.
MAGEL2 (patho‐)physiology and Schaaf–Yang syndrome
Authors: Schubert Tim , Schaaf Christian P.
Published: July 2024

Schaaf–Yang syndrome (SYS) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by autism spectrum disorder, joint contractures, and profound hypothalamic dysfunction. SYS is caused by variants in MAGEL2, a gene within the Prader–Willi syndrome (PWS) locus on chromosome 15. In this review, we consolidate decades of research on MAGEL2 to elucidate its physiological functions. Moreover, we synthesize current knowledge on SYS, suggesting that while MAGEL2 loss‐of‐function seems to underlie several SYS and PWS phenotypes, additional pathomechanisms probably contribute to the distinct and severe phenotype observed in SYS. In addition, we highlight recent therapeutic advances and identify promising avenues for future investigation.
Mechanisms underlying the development of eating disorders and disordered eating in adolescent females with type 1 diabetes
Authors: Abild Caroline Bruun , Vestergaard Esben Thyssen , Bruun Jens Meldgaard , Kristensen Kurt , Støving Rene Klinkby , Clausen Loa
Published: July 2024

Objective

People with Type 1 diabetes (T1D) face an increased risk of eating disorders/disordered eating (ED/DE), with adolescents being particularly vulnerable. Empirical knowledge on the mechanisms underlying development of ED/DE in T1D is crucial for evolving prevention strategies.

Research Design and Methods

Fourteen semi‐structured interviews with adolescent females with T1D and ED/DE between 14 and 18 years were conducted and analyzed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Analyses identified four main themes; ‘Interconnected afflictions’, ‘Judgment’, ‘Feeling Different’, and ‘Chaos & Control’, These themes explore the interconnectedness of T1D and ED/DE, with shame and guilt emerging as common underlying mechanism. The development of a biopsychosocial model was based on the integration of these data with existing models.

Conclusions

The study extends previous developmental pathways of ED/DE in adolescents with T1D. We propose a biopsychosocial model that incorporates various factors: predisposing factors such as parental management of T1D and weight gain during adolescence; precipitating factors including comments on weight, frequency of weighing, perceptions of surveillance; the perpetuating bilateral influence of ED/DE and T1D and finally highlighting the protective mechanisms of disease acceptance encompassing parental handling of diagnosis and the contribution of healthcare professionals (HCP's) role in psychoeducation. The present study highlight the vulnerability of adolescence in the presence of T1D, particularly concerning issues related to eating, weight, and body. It offers clinically relevant insights, with the aim to improve communication and management strategies for this very specific group.
Caring for minorities: The Flexible Decision Rule
Authors: Frey Bruno S. , Briviba Andre
Published: July 2024

Simple majority rule disregards the interests of the losing minority; their vote does not affect the outcome. When vote outcomes are narrow, close to 50% of voters, the concerns of a significant part of the voters are disregarded. This increases polarization in the population and endangers democracy. This paper proposes a new procedure for political decisions by referendums. The Flexible Decision Rule formally takes into account the percentage of voters accepting or rejecting a proposal. The higher the share y of voters accepting it, the more strongly the proposal is to be put into reality; the lower y is, the less strongly the proposal is to be put into reality. This procedure explicitly considers the concerns of both the supporters and the opponents thus raising the fairness of the vote procedure. In contrast to majority voting, each vote marginalizes the outcome and therefore raises the incentive to participate in the vote increase.
Unraveling female mate choice in Schizocosa mccooki: The interplay of male mass and vibratory courtship
Authors: Yan Lin , Sabaria Athena , Elias Damian O. , Rosenthal Malcolm F.
Published: July 2024

Sexual selection is an important evolutionary force and despite extensive research, understanding mate choice on naturally occurring trait variation remains an intriguing area of study. The correlation between mass, a trait associated with courter viability and common target for mate choice, and signals is particularly noteworthy. This study focuses on Schizocosa mccooki, the largest member of a wolf spider genus renowned for its diverse complex male courtship. Our objective was to understand the relationship of male mass and other courtship signals on female choice within this species. We conducted lab experiments involving random pairings of field caught males and females, recording vibratory courtship and its outcomes. Our findings revealed that S. mccooki courtship consisted of vibratory signals with two major components, thumps and raps. Male mass, overall courtship vigor, and thump duration were found to predict mating success. Interestingly, we found no correlation between temporal traits and mass suggesting independent information and an absence of trade‐offs between mass, courtship vigor, and signal component rates/durations. Instead, we found that heavier males tend to produce thumps with lower frequencies. The finding that male mass predicts mating success contrasts with patterns observed in other species in this well‐studied genus. By uncovering the mate choice patterns of S. mccooki, this study underscores the importance of comparative studies to understand the ways in which sexual selection drives diversification, even among closely related taxa.
Deepening our understanding of the environmental influences on the reproductive dynamics of the main fishery stock of Argentine hake, Merluccius hubbsi, in the southwestern Atlantic Ocean
Authors: Elisio Mariano , Diaz Marina V. , Leonarduzzi Ezequiel , Rodrigues Karina A. , Burla Juan M. , Macchi Gustavo J.
Published: July 2024

This study analyzed the inter‐annual variability in the reproductive dynamics of the Argentine hake from Patagonian waters during the last 20 years concerning the environmental conditions and the nutritional status of females. Macroscopic and histological information on gonadal maturity, female condition factor (K), and oceanographic data at different sampling sites throughout the studied region were obtained from research surveys carried out during the main spawning season of this species. Four stages, according to the maturity ovarian phases composition, were assigned annually at each sampling site to assess reproductive dynamics: vitellogenesis, ovulation, regression, and resting. The spatial pattern of inter‐annual variability in reproductive dynamics was described, and the influence of temperature and female condition on the probability of ovulation and regression was assessed using generalized linear models. The area with the lowest inter‐annual variability in the hake reproductive dynamics was observed between 43 and 45°S (50 to 80 m depth) in relation to ovulation events. The vitellogenesis stage was more frequently found adjacent to the reproductive area, whereas the regression was mainly observed in deeper waters. Both bottom and surface temperatures explained the ovulation and regression stages, showing a positive and negative relationship, respectively. Lower values of the K factor, associated with low food availability, were further linked to the occurrence of regression. Finally, it is worth noting that the relationship observed between the ovulation/spawning dynamics of Argentine hake and water temperature suggests that the reproductive success of this species could be affected in the future scenario of climate change.
Evaluation of effects of heat released from SOC decomposition on soil carbon stock and temperature
Authors: Huang Ye , Huang Lin , Qiu Chunjing , Ciais Philippe
Published: July 2024

Heat released from soil organic carbon (SOC) decomposition (referred to as microbial heat hereafter) could alter the soil's thermal and hydrological conditions, subsequently modulate SOC decomposition and its feedback with climate. While understanding this feedback is crucial for shaping policy to achieve specific climate goal, it has not been comprehensively assessed. This study employs the ORCHIDEE‐MICT model to investigate the effects of microbial heat, referred to as heating effect, focusing on their impacts on SOC accumulation, soil temperature and net primary productivity (NPP), as well as implication on land‐climate feedback under two CO2 emissions scenarios (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5). The findings reveal that the microbial heat decreases soil carbon stock, predominantly in upper layers, and elevates soil temperatures, especially in deeper layers. This results in a marginal reduction in global SOC stocks due to accelerated SOC decomposition. Altered seasonal cycles of SOC decomposition and soil temperature are simulated, with the most significant temperature increase per unit of microbial heat (0.31 K J−1) occurring at around 273.15 K (median value of all grid cells where air temperature is around 273.15 K). The heating effect leads to the earlier loss of permafrost area under RCP8.5 and hinders its restoration under RCP2.6 after peak warming. Although elevated soil temperature under climate warming aligns with expectation, the anticipated accelerated SOC decomposition and large amplifying feedback on climate warming were not observed, mainly because of reduced modeled initial SOC stock and limited NPP with heating effect. These underscores the multifaceted impacts of microbial heat. Comprehensive understanding of these effects would be vital for devising effective climate change mitigation strategies in a warming world.
Wettability of non‐metallic inclusions and its impact on bubble‐induced flotation kinetics
Authors: Falsetti Luís Otávio Z. , Delfos René , Charruault Florian , Luchini Bruno , Van Der Plas Dirk , Pandolfelli Victor C.
Published: July 2024

Ceramic refractory bubbling devices may be applied in the steel ladle to induce the flotation of non‐metallic inclusions to the slag phase. These inclusions have many origins along the steelmaking process and induce a detrimental effect on the mechanical properties of these metals. Therefore, the design of high‐performance ceramic plugs relies on understanding the fundamentals of non‐metallic inclusions captured by the gas bubbles. This study investigated the flotation dynamics of hydrophobic and hydrophilic hollow glass particles through experimentation using a water model and quantifying the particle concentration via light scattering. Both types of particles exhibited a comparable natural flotation removal rate, whereas a 40% increase for hydrophobic particles was observed when introducing 1.1 mm bubbles (at 25 NL/h) enhancing the efficiency from 43.1% to 65.2%. For hydrophilic particles, the efficiency increased from 59.1% to 86.2% when bubbles were injected into the system, whereas the removal rate decreased by 2.1‐fold. The consequence of the practice of inert gas purging to remove non‐metallic inclusions is also discussed.
Relations of personality factors and suitability ratings to Swedish military pilot education completion
Authors: Sehlström Malcolm , Ljungberg Jessica K. , Nyström Markus B. T. , Claeson Anna‐Sara
Published: July 2024

Improved understanding of what it takes to be a pilot is an ongoing effort within aviation. We used an exploratory approach to examine whether there are personality‐related differences in who completes the Swedish military pilot education. Assessment records of 182 applicants, accepted to the education between the years of 2004 and 2020 were studied (Mean age 24, SD 4.2 96% men, 4% women). Discriminant analysis was used to explore which personality traits and suitability ratings might be related to education completion. Analysis included suitability assessments made by senior pilots and by a psychologist, a number of traits assessed by the same psychologist, as well as the Commander Trait Inventory (CTI). The resulting discriminant function was significant (Wilk's Lambda = 0.808, (20) = 32.817, p = .035) with a canonical correlation of 0.44. The model was able to classify 74.1% of sample cases correctly. The modeling suggests that senior pilot assessment and psychologist assessment both predict education completion. Also contributing were the traits energy, professional motivation, study forecast and leader potential.
Scar outcomes for conservatively managed children post burn injury: A retrospective study
Authors: Ball Stephanie , Wicks Stephanie , Thomas Rhianydd , Toose Claire , Gray Kelly , Pacey Verity
Published: July 2024

Hypertrophic scarring is a significant complication post burn injury, especially for delayed healing after 3 weeks. Burn injuries healing prior to 3 weeks also have the potential to develop hypertrophic scarring, even when prescribed prophylactic conservative scar interventions. A retrospective chart audit reviewed 326 burn patients treated at a paediatric tertiary hospital from 2014 to 2019 who sustained a partial thickness burn, healed >14 days and did not receive skin grafting. A scar was deemed hypertrophic if >1 mm in height. Early hypertrophic scar prevalence was defined as 3–6 months post burn, while persistent hypertrophic scarring was defined as 12–18 months post burn. Median days to wound closure was 18. The prevalence of early and persistent hypertrophic scarring was 56.1% and 16.3%, respectively. Seventeen (5.2%) children underwent medical interventions for scar modulation. Early signs of hypertrophic scarring were seen in just over half the patients presenting to burn therapy and despite scar intervention, persistent hypertrophic scarring was seen in 16.3%. At both time points, just over half of the children presenting healed between 14 and 21 days. Therefore, children healing prior to 21 days have potential to develop hypertrophic scarring.
Functionally multilayered Yb‐silicate EBCs fabricated using slurry spraying‐reactive sintering technique
Authors: Waghmare Gauri , Hastak Vikram , Gandhi Ashutosh S.
Published: July 2024

Functionally multilayered environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) with the desired layer sequence of Yb2O3/Yb2SiO5/Yb2Si2O7/SiO2/Si were obtained using an unconventional yet simple technique of reactive sintering. Yb2O3 slurry was sprayed on polycrystalline silicon (used as a bond coat for SiCf/SiC composites) and reactive sintered to generate graded layers that provide a combination of mitigated thermal expansion mismatch as well as silica activity. The Yb2O3‐terpineol slurry produced a uniform deposit of the Yb2O3 topcoat. Reactive sintering of exploratory coatings (t ∼ 10–20 µm) was carried out in air by varying the temperature (1100–1400°C) and time (2–24 h). X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy‐energy‐dispersive spectroscopy technique confirmed the in situ formation of X2‐Yb2SiO5 and β‐Yb2Si2O7. Rietveld refinement was performed to know the volume fractions of the respective phases. The set of process parameters identified from the preliminary work was employed to fabricate EBCs with thickness ∼ 250 µm. The X2‐Yb2SiO5 and β‐Yb2Si2O7 phases formed next to the Si/SiO2 interface as two separate layers. Post‐sintering heat treatments in air at 1300, 1350, and 1400°C for 3–50 h elucidated the growth characteristics of the oxide layers to be a function of both temperature and time. The theoretical considerations of diffusional reactive phase formation of the EBC multilayer growth rates are discussed.
Barriers and facilitators influencing implementation of care technology for people with intellectual disabilities: A cross‐sectional study among care professionals
Authors: Siebelink Nienke M. , Gaasterland Annemarije , Gielissen Marieke , van der Weegen Sanne , Boon Brigitte , van der Poel Agnes
Published: July 2024

Background

Implementation issues often hinder reaching the potential of care technology to improve daily lives of people with intellectual disabilities. We investigated barriers to and facilitators of implementing different technology modalities (app/social robot/sensor/domotics) in long‐term care.

Method

Care professionals (N = 83) from 12 Dutch disability care organisations completed a customised measurement instrument for determinants of innovations (MIDI) questionnaire.

Results

Out of 27 determinants, 20 were identified as facilitators and 16 as barriers. We highlight common barriers: few colleagues who work with the technology; no (awareness of) formal ratification of technology use; no arrangements regarding turnover of staff using the technology; unsettling organisational changes; technological defects and limited IT preconditions.

Conclusions

The results, which could be combined and compared across study sites, provide insight into which implementation determinants were already well addressed, and where there is ground to gain when implementing care technology in disability care organisations.
Association between inflammatory biomarkers and hypertension among sedentary adults in US: NHANES 2009–2018
Authors: Sha Shuo , Bu Xing‐Peng , Wang Ai‐Wen , Chen Huan‐Zhen
Published: July 2024

Our study focuses on the relationship between inflammatory biomarkers and hypertension among sedentary adults in the United States, using data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) from 2009 to 2018. We categorized 24,614 participants into two groups based on their daily sedentary time: 9607 individuals in the sedentary group (≥7 h) and 15,007 in the non‐sedentary group (<7 h). We found that the sedentary group had a significantly higher prevalence of hypertension than the non‐sedentary group. Using weighted multiple logistic regression and smoothing curves, we assessed the correlation between inflammatory biomarkers and hypertension among the sedentary adults. The odds ratios for hypertension were 1.92 for the monocyte to high‐density lipoprotein ratio (MHR), 1.15 for the systemic inflammation response index (SIRI), and 1.19 for the natural logarithm of the systemic immune‐inflammation index (lnSII), all showing nonlinear associations. Furthermore, a significant positive correlation was found between sedentary time and inflammatory biomarkers (MHR, SIRI, and lnSII). Our findings suggest that prolonged sedentary behavior in the US significantly increases hypertension risk, likely due to marked increases in inflammation markers.
Dynamic pathology and pathogen distribution of the yeast Metschnikowia bicuspidata in the Chinese mitten crab (Eriocheir sinensis)
Authors: Shi Xinran , Sun Na , Liu Jiannan , Pu Senting , Chen Zhouling , Sheng Dong , Hao Kexin , Li Xiaodong , Ye Shigen
Published: July 2024

In this study, the “milky disease” model of Eriocheir sinhensis was constructed via intramuscular injection with the pathogenic yeast Metschnikowia bicuspidata. The dynamic pathological changes of E. sinensis after injection were elucidated with two staining methods (haemotoxylin‐eosin and alcian blue periodic acid‐Schiff) and fluorescence in situ hybridization technology. Anatomical observation revealed three stages of the “milky disease”: no clinical signs (1–4 days after infection), the appearance of signs of disease (5–7 days), and significant liquefaction (10 days). Histological observation also revealed three stages of the disease: yeast diffusion (1–2 days after infection), yeast slow development (3–4 days), and yeast rapid proliferation (5 days). And FISH technique was suitable for the early detection of infection with M. bicuspidata in E. sinensis. We found that M. bicuspidata spread to the whole body of the crab through the haemolymph and developed into fungal septicaemia. These results elucidate the systemic pathological characteristics of “milky disease” in E. sinensis and suggest the pathogenic mechanism of M. bicuspidata.
The contribution of chronic peer victimization in elementary school to depressive symptoms in adolescence
Authors: Troop‐Gordon Wendy , Thomas Jillian , Brigham Emily F. , Xu Jianjie , Rudolph Karen D.
Published: July 2024

Throughout his career, John Schulenberg challenged us to understand adolescent development as the confluence of distal and proximal experiences along with critical transitions. Heeding this call, we examined whether chronic childhood peer victimization predicted adolescents' depressive symptoms via early‐emerging depression growth trajectories, continued victimization into adolescence, and stress‐amplification at the middle school transition. Self‐reported depressive symptoms and teacher‐reported and self‐reported peer victimization were obtained from 636 youth (338 girls; Mage = 7.96 years, 66.7% White, 21.7% Black, 11.6% other) in the 2nd–9th grades. Latent growth curve analyses revealed that, by 7th grade, chronic childhood peer victimization was associated with depressive symptoms only through an indirect association with peer victimization in adolescence, underscoring how interrelated historical and ongoing interpersonal stressors contribute to adolescent psychopathology.
“See You Sunday?” Effects of Attending a Specific Weekend Religious Service on Emotional Well‐Being: A State/Trait Analysis of the SoulPulse Study
Authors: Kent Blake Victor , Upenieks Laura , Jang Daniel Y. , Ellison Christopher G. , Wright Bradley R.E.
Published: July 2024

Most studies of religious service attendance and emotional well‐being are only capable of evaluating “trait” aspects of religious attendance, or long‐term patterns and habits that form an attendance routine. Methodological limitations make it difficult to capture the immediate (i.e., “state”) effects of attending a specific religious worship service. Using the SoulPulse Study, a 2‐week microlongitudinal study consisting of two daily cell phone surveys, we move beyond this limitation by examining trait attendance, state attendance, and the interaction of the two on 10 emotional/affective outcome variables. We find that both state attendance and trait attendance are associated with well‐being, though state attendance performs more consistently across the 10 positive and negative emotion items. Leveraging Iannaccone's concept of “religious capital,” we present evidence in state × trait interaction models that only those who have high trait levels of attendance are able to capture the emotional benefit of state attendance. This study informs the broader literature on religious attendance and well‐being by providing evidence that religious attendance can be considered a “practice” that must first be internalized as a set of familiar routines prior to being activated for personal well‐being.
Brocket deer niche breadth and overlap: spatial similarities limit species coexistence
Authors: Grotta‐Neto F. , Vogliotti A. , de Oliveira M. L. , Passos F. C. , Barbanti Duarte J. M.
Published: July 2024

Understanding species coexistence requires information about how species interact and partition their ecological niche. Niches of closely related species tend to be quite similar and thereby, when syntopic, overlap can result in competition when shared resources are limiting. Brocket deer of tropical forests are ecologically similar species due to convergence or relatedness. As a group, what little is known about their ecology suggests spatial and temporal niche separation while dietary differences among species remain largely unknown. The possibility of competition has been suggested, as it is rare for more than two species to co‐occur. If competition is important, then it may limit syntopy of more species and its importance should increase with relatedness between species. Based on analyses of faecal samples, camera traps, and stable isotopes and multidimensional analysis of niche space, we test spatial, temporal and dietary niche differences and compare niche breadth in two syntopic species pairs: Mazama rufa with M. nana (both of subtribe Odocoileina) and M. jucunda (Odocoileina) with Subulo gouazoubira (Blastocerina). In 2007–2008 and 2017–2019, 240 faecal samples and 375 records were collected in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest. Spatial partitioning among both species pairs was found, with S. gouazoubira and M. nana having greater niche breadth, which may permit or facilitate coexistence. Odocoileina tend to be nocturnal, while Blastocerina tend to be diurnal, which suggests that phylogeny may influence species coexistence. Furthermore, the species tended to overlap with respect to diet. These results suggest interference competition avoidance by niche partitioning at the level of habitat and time, allowing coexistence. Thereby, despite the morphological similarities, brocket deer species of evolutionarily convergent subtribes preserve differences in ecological niche dimensions that facilitate the coexistence of their populations.
Perinatal intervention strategies providing food with micronutrients to pregnant and breastfeeding women in low‐ and middle‐income countries: A scoping review
Authors: McDonald Christine M. , Wessells K. Ryan , Stewart Christine P. , Dewey Kathryn G. , de Pee Saskia , Rana Ritu , Hafeez‐ur‐Rehman Hajra , Mwangi Martin N. , Hess Sonja Y.
Published: July 2024

In resource‐constrained settings, pregnant and breastfeeding women and girls (PBW/G) are particularly vulnerable to undernutrition. Micronutrient‐fortified balanced energy protein (BEP) supplementation may be provided to boost maternal nutritional status and improve birth and infant outcomes. We conducted a scoping review of the published literature to determine the impact of BEP and other related nutrition interventions that provided fortified food or cash along with a minimum of 3 micronutrients on maternal, birth, and infant/child outcomes in low‐ and middle‐income countries. We conducted a PubMed search using pre‐defined keywords and controlled vocabulary search terms. All titles and abstracts were reviewed for eligibility by two independent reviewers, and data were extracted according to outcome type. We identified 149 eligible research articles that reported on a total of 21 trials and/or programme evaluations which assessed the health impact of one or more products (fortified lipid‐based nutrient supplement [LNS, n = 12], fortified blended flours [n = 5], milk‐based beverages [n = 2], and local food/snacks [n = 3]) that provided 118–750 kcal/day and varying levels of protein and micronutrients. Only one of these programme evaluations assessed the impact of the provision of cash and fortified food. Effects on maternal outcomes such as gestational weight gain and duration of gestation were promising but inconsistent. Birth outcomes were reported in 15 studies, and the effects on birthweight and birth length were generally positive. Seven studies demonstrated sustained benefits on infant and child growth out of the 15 studies that reported at least one of these outcomes, although data were sparse. Additional research is needed to investigate issues of dose, cost‐effectiveness, and incorporation into multi‐component interventions.
The first complete genome of the extinct European wild ass (Equus hemionus hydruntinus)
Authors: Özkan Mustafa , Gürün Kanat , Yüncü Eren , Vural Kıvılcım Başak , Atağ Gözde , Akbaba Ali , Fidan Fatma Rabia , Sağlıcan Ekin , Altınışık Ezgi N. , Koptekin Dilek , Pawłowska Kamilla , Hodder Ian , Adcock Sarah E. , Arbuckle Benjamin S. , Steadman Sharon R. , McMahon Gregory , Erdal Yılmaz Selim , Bilgin C. Can , Togan İnci , Geigl Eva‐Maria , Götherström Anders , Grange Thierry , Özer Füsun , Somel Mehmet
Published: July 2024

We present palaeogenomes of three morphologically unidentified Anatolian equids dating to the first millennium BCE, sequenced to a coverage of 0.6–6.4×. Mitochondrial DNA haplotypes of the Anatolian individuals clustered with those of Equus hydruntinus (or Equus hemionus hydruntinus), the extinct European wild ass, secular name ‘hydruntine’. Further, the Anatolian wild ass whole genome profiles fell outside the genomic diversity of other extant and past Asiatic wild ass (E. hemionus) lineages. These observations suggest that the three Anatolian wild asses represent hydruntines, making them the latest recorded survivors of this lineage, about a millennium later than the latest observations in the zooarchaeological record. Our mitogenomic and genomic analyses indicate that E. h. hydruntinus was a clade belonging to ancient and present‐day E. hemionus lineages that radiated possibly between 0.6 and 0.8 Mya. We also find evidence consistent with recent gene flow between hydruntines and Middle Eastern wild asses. Analyses of genome‐wide heterozygosity and runs of homozygosity suggest that the Anatolian wild ass population may have lost genetic diversity by the mid‐first millennium BCE, a possible sign of its eventual demise.
Histopathological risk assessment in multisite epithelial dysplasia: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Ferraz Daniel Lobato Ferreira , dos Santos Erison Santana , Pedroso Caique Mariano , Silva Brunno Santos de Freitas , Kujan Omar , Salo Tuula Anneli , Malki Mohammed I. , Juteau Susanna , Vargas Pablo Agustin , Lopes Marcio Ajudarte , Santos‐Silva Alan Roger
Published: July 2024

Objective

Histopathological grading of oral epithelial dysplasia (OED) is the current standard for stratifying cancer progression risk but is associated with subjectivity and variability. This problem is not commonly seen regarding the grading of epithelial dysplasia in other sites. This systematic review aims to compare grading systems for oral, anal, penile, and cervical epithelial dysplasia to determine their predictive accuracy for recurrence and malignant transformation (MT) outcomes.

Methods

The review protocol was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42023403035) and was reported according to the PRISMA checklist. A comprehensive search was performed in the main databases and gray literature. The risk of bias in individual studies was analyzed using the Joanna Briggs Institute checklist for each study design.

Results

Forty‐six studies were deemed eligible and included in this systematic review, of which 45 were included in the quantitative analysis. Meta‐analysis revealed that the binary system demonstrated a higher predictive ability for MT/recurrence of OED compared to multilevel systems. Higher predictive accuracy of MT was also observed for binary grading systems in anal intraepithelial neoplasia.

Conclusions

No significant difference was found between the current grading systems of epithelial dysplasia in different body parts. However, binary grading systems have shown better clinical outcomes.