bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Public responses to engineering equality: Gender quotas and satisfaction with democracy
Authors: WILLIAMS NEIL S. , SNIPES ALEXANDRA
Published: July 2024

Does the enactment of gender quotas in legislatures affect satisfaction with democracy? Although extensive research has generally affirmed the potential of gender quotas to advance women's political representation, our article investigates how quota adoption has shaped public attitudes toward democracy. We argue that positive effects resulting from the descriptive representation of women could be attenuated by negative reactions to the implementation of a quota system. Specifically, we posit that the backlash to these compulsory parity‐corrective policies will lead to lower levels of satisfaction with democracy, particularly for men. Using cross‐national survey evidence from as early as 1973 covering 69 countries and well over a million respondents, as well as a generalized synthetic control design to causally assess the impact of quotas, we find strong support for our expectations regarding the negative effects of quotas on democratic satisfaction. However, we do not find clear evidence that gender conditions this relationship and report heterogeneous region‐specific findings with ideology and support for quotas as moderators. Importantly, we observe the strongest negative associations between quotas and satisfaction in contexts with higher levels of corruption, specifically in Latin America. Seeing that quotas have the potential to generate lower levels of democratic satisfaction among men and women, our analysis contributes to our understanding of public responses to fast‐tracking women's representation and has broader implications for other top‐down initiatives aimed at deepening norms of democracy and equality.
Generation of genome‐wide SNP markers from minimally invasive sampling in endangered animals and applications in species ecology and conservation
Authors: Recknagel Hans , Močivnik Luka , Zakšek Valerija , Luo Yonglun , Kostanjšek Rok , Trontelj Peter
Published: July 2024

High‐density genotyping methods have revolutionized the field of population and conservation genetics in the past decade. To exploit the technological and analytical advances in the field, access to high‐quality genetic material is a key component. However, access to such samples in endangered and rare animals is often challenging or even impossible. Here, we used a minimally invasive sampling method (MIS) in the endangered cave salamander Proteus anguinus, the olm, to generate thousands of genetic markers using ddRADseq for population and conservation genomic analyses. Using tail clips and MIS skin swabs taken from the same individual, we investigated genotyping data properties of the two different sampling types. We found that sufficient DNA can be extracted from swab samples to generate up to 200,000 polymorphic SNPs in divergent Proteus lineages. Swab and tissue samples were highly reproducible exhibiting low SNP genotyping error rates. We found that SNPs were most frequently (~50%) located within genic regions, while the rest mapped to mostly flanking regions of repetitive DNA. The vast majority of DNA recovered from swabbing was host DNA. However, a fraction of DNA recovered from swabs contained additional ecological information on the species, including eDNA from the surrounding environment and bacterial skin fauna. Most exogenous DNA recovered from swabs were bacteria (~80%), followed by vertebrates (~20%). Our results demonstrate that MIS can be used to (i) generate tens of thousands of ddRADseq markers for conservation and population genomic analyses and (ii) inform on the species health status and ecology from exogenous DNA.
Burnout among intensive care nurses, physicians and leaders during the COVID‐19 pandemic: A national longitudinal study
Authors: Hovland Ingvild Strand , Skogstad Laila , Diep Lien My , Ekeberg Øivind , Ræder Johan , Stafseth Siv Karlsson , Hem Erlend , Rø Karin Isaksson , Lie Irene
Published: July 2024

Background

Burnout is frequent among intensive care unit (ICU) healthcare professionals and may result in medical errors and absenteeism. The COVID‐19 pandemic caused additional strain during working hours and also affected off‐duty life. The aims of this study were to survey burnout levels among ICU healthcare professionals during the first year of COVID‐19, describe those who reported burnout, and analyse demographic and work‐related factors associated with burnout.

Methods

This was a national prospective longitudinal cohort study of 484 nurses, physicians and leaders working in intensive care units with COVID‐19 patients in Norway. Burnout was measured at 6‐ and 12‐month follow‐up, after a registration of baseline data during the first months of the COVID epidemic. The Copenhagen Burnout Inventory (CBI), was used (range 0–100), burnout caseness defined as CBI ≥50. Bi‐ and multivariable logistic regression analyses were performed to examine baseline demographic variables and work‐related factors associated with burnout caseness at 12 months.

Results

At 6 months, the median CBI score was 17, increasing to 21 at 12 months (p = .037), with nurses accounting for most of the increase. Thirty‐two per cent had an increase in score of more than 5, whereas 25% had a decrease of more than 5. Ten per cent reported caseness of burnout at 6 months and 14% at 12 months (n.s.). The participants with burnout caseness were of significantly lower age, had fewer years of experience, reported more previous anxiety and/or depression, more moral distress, less perceived hospital recognition, and more fear of infection in the bivariate analyses. Burnout was the single standing most reported type of psychological distress, and 24 out of 41 (59%) with burnout caseness also reported caseness of anxiety, depression and/or post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) symptoms. Multivariate analysis showed statistically significant associations of burnout caseness with fewer years of professional experience (p = .041) and borderline significance of perceived support by leader (p = .049).

Conclusion

In Norway, a minority of ICU nurses, physicians and leaders reported burnout 1 year into the pandemic. A majority of those with burnout reported anxiety, depression and/or PTSD symptoms combined. Burnout was associated with less years of professional experience.
Phototrap‐assessed diel activity of Cerambyx cerdo and Cerambyx welensii sympatric populations in the wild: Does extreme drought boost diurnality?
Authors: Torres‐Vila Luis M. , López‐Calvo Rafael , Ponce‐Escudero Francisco , Mendiola‐Díaz F. Javier , Fernández‐Moreno Félix , Sánchez‐González Álvaro
Published: July 2024

Longhorn beetles (Cerambycidae) are a very diverse group whose species vary greatly in morphology and behaviour, particularly in diel activity. The type genus Cerambyx includes two large oak‐ling sympatric species (Cerambyx cerdo and Cerambyx welensii) that exhibit a crepuscular/nocturnal (dim‐light) lifestyle, but their actual diel activity remains largely unclear.

We used phototraps in the wild to assess if diel activity depended on either species, sex or annual meteorology. Phototraps were highly effective, and the imaged activities were representative of beetles' life, including interactions with some vertebrate species.

Both longhorns exhibited roughly similar crepuscular/nocturnal behaviour, with daytime activity being usually residual or erratic. Diel activity increased sharply just before dusk, peaked between dusk and early dark night (23:00–2:00 h), and then dropped progressively until disappearing at dawn. Diel activity was sexually dimorphic in C. welensii, as in some years females tended to be active earlier than males.

Distinctly, in 2022, the warmest and driest year recorded in the study area, diel activity curves were flatter and wider, with C. cerdo activity increasing in the late afternoon (19:00–21:30 h) and C. welensii in the second half of the night (3:00–6:00 h). Furthermore, both species boosted daytime activity (diurnality) by more than three times, and diurnality also increased over the season that year.

We finally hypothesise that, under the current climate change scenario, extreme droughts impact diel activity in these species, particularly boosting diurnality, in an attempt to locate water/food sources to counteract body dehydration.
The prevalence of, and factors associated with, a risk of depression in residential aged care services residents: Findings from the FIRST study
Authors: Sakai Tomomichi , Jadczak Agathe Daria , Khalid Ashna , Piovezan Ronaldo D. , Leemaqz Shalem , Visvanathan Renuka
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Depression is common amongst Australian residential aged care services (RACS) residents. This study aimed to estimate the risk of depression amongst residents and identify factors associated with this risk. In care settings such as RACS, time‐efficient screening tools to identify depression risk may be a preferred tool.

Methods

The two‐item Patient Health Questionnaire (PHQ‐2), derived from the nine‐item PHQ‐9 used commonly in the United States (US), was employed in this study. A resident was identified as being at risk of depression where the score was ≥3. Multivariable logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent factors associated with being at risk of depression.

Results

Residents' mean age was 87.7 (standard deviation: 7.3) years and 73% were female. One‐fifth of residents (n = 108 or 20%) were at risk of depression. Age (odds ratio [OR] 0.96, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.93–0.99); Pain Assessment in Advanced Dementia (PAINAD) score (OR 1.55, 95% CI 1.11–2.16); Epworth Sleepiness Scale (ESS) score (OR 1.08, 95% CI 1.03–1.13); and 38‐item Frailty Index (FI) score (OR 1.07, 95% CI 1.03–1.10) were significantly associated with being at risk of depression, whilst sex, urinary incontinence, polypharmacy, Dementia Severity Rating Scale (DSRS) and Nursing Home Life Space Diameter (NHLSD) score were not.

Conclusions

One in five residents were at risk of depression. Younger age, higher pain, higher daytime sleepiness and higher frailty status were associated with depressive risk. Future studies focusing on interventions targeting these factors may contribute to improved health outcomes.
Digit ratios and hospitalization for COVID‐19: A test of the low‐androgen‐driven and high‐androgen‐driven theories of COVID‐19 severity
Authors: Kasielska‐Trojan Anna , Manning John T. , Jabłkowski Maciej , Białkowska‐Warzecha Jolanta , Kwaśniewska Oliwia , Hirschberg Angelica L , Antoszewski Bogusław
Published: July 2024

Background

Sex hormones are likely to be important determinants of COVID‐19 severity, and two opposing explanations regarding severity, the low‐androgen‐driven and high‐androgen‐driven theories, seek to explain this pattern. Digit ratios are sex dependent (males < females) and are claimed to be markers for both prenatal and postnatal testosterone.

Objectives

Here, we use a measure of COVID‐19severity (hospitalization), compare digit ratios in patients and controls and consider whether vaccination status changed these associations.

Material and methods

Four digits were measured (2D, 3D, 4D, 5D). There were 194 participants (94 hospitalized patients [45 men] and 100 controls [53 men]) in Sample I and 162 participants (100 hospitalized [42 men], including 40 vaccinated and 62 controls [32 men]) in Sample II. Six ratios were calculated (2D:3D; 2D:4D; 2D:5D; 3D:4D; 3D:5D, 4D:5D) and compared between COVID‐19 hospitalized and non‐hospitalized patients and vaccinated and non‐vaccinated.

Results

In comparison to controls, we found higher (“feminized”) means in patient ratios that included 5D (2D:5D; 3D:5D; 4D:5D) in both samples. The differences were independent of sex and age. Hospitalized patients with COVID‐19 have higher (feminized) means and higher standard deviations (SDs) for 5D digit ratios.

Discussion

Digit ratios are sex dependent (males < females) and are considered as markers for both prenatal and postnatal testosterone. If verified in future studies, the results will be helpful in regard to targeting mortality‐reducing therapies for COVID‐19 in certain groups of patients.

Conclusion

We conclude that the association between high (feminized) 5D ratios and hospitalization supports the low‐androgen‐driven theory of COVID‐19 severity.
Prevalence and prognostic value of zinc and selenium deficiency in advanced chronic liver disease
Authors: Dominik Nina , Balcar Lorenz , Semmler Georg , Simbrunner Benedikt , Schwarz Michael , Hofer Benedikt S. , Hartl Lukas , Jachs Mathias , Scheiner Bernhard , Pinter Matthias , Trauner Michael , Mandorfer Mattias , Pilger Alexander , Reiberger Thomas
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Zinc and selenium are essential trace elements involved in important (patho)physiological processes. The prevalence and prognostic implications of zinc and selenium deficiency in patients with advanced chronic liver disease (ACLD) remain unknown.

Methods

We determined serum zinc and selenium concentrations in 309 patients with ACLD undergoing hepatic venous pressure gradient (HVPG) measurement between 2019 and 2022. We evaluated the prevalence of zinc/selenium deficiency and assessed its association with severity of ACLD and liver‐related events (LRE, i.e. first/further hepatic decompensation/liver‐related death).

Results

Among 309 ACLD patients (median: age: 57 [IQR: 50–64], MELD: 11 [IQR: 9–16], HVPG: 17 [IQR: 11–20]), 73% (227) and 63% (195) were deficient in zinc and selenium, respectively. Decompensated (dACLD) patients showed significantly lower serum zinc (median: 48 [IQR: 38–59] vs. compensated, cACLD: 65 [IQR: 54–78], p < 0.001) and selenium levels (median: 4.9 [IQR 4.0–6.2] vs. cACLD: 6.1 [IQR 5.1–7.3], p < 0.001). Significant correlations of zinc/selenium levels were found with MELD (zinc: ρ = −0.498, p < 0.001; selenium: ρ = −0.295, p < 0.001), HVPG (zinc: ρ = −0.400, p < 0.001; selenium: ρ = −0.157, p = 0.006) and liver disease‐driving mechanisms (IL6, bile‐acid homeostasis). On multivariable analysis, low zinc/selenium levels, age and MELD remained independently associated with LRE.

Conclusion

Zinc and selenium deficiencies are common in ACLD patients especially with higher MELD and HVPG. Low zinc and selenium levels independently predicted hepatic decompensation and liver‐related death. The effect of zinc/selenium supplementation in ACLD should be investigated in future trials.
Effects of cashew nutshell liquid on milk production and methane emission of dairy cows in a farm condition
Authors: Gaspe R‐Jun Frederick Avelino , Obitsu Taketo , Sugino Toshihisa , Kurokawa Yuzo , Kuroki Yuma
Published: July 2024

This study aimed to clarify the efficacy of cashew nutshell liquid (CNSL) in methane emissions, milk production, and rumen fermentation of lactating cows in practical conditions. Ten Holstein lactating cows were used in a free‐stall barn with a milking robot. Two treatments were arranged as control (no CNSL additive, n = 5) or CNSL addition (10 g/day of CNSL, n = 5) for 21 days after the 7‐day preliminary period. A sniffer method was applied to predict daily methane production and methane conversion factor (MCF). In vitro, rumen gas production was also tested using the rumen fluid of individual cows. Daily dry matter intake (DMI), eating time, milk production, and methane production were not affected by the CNSL addition. However, methane production per DMI and MCF were lower (p ≤ 0.01) for the CNSL cows than those for the control cows. Ruminal total volatile fatty acid (VFA) concentration and acetate proportion tended to be lower (p < 0.15) for CNSL cows. A tendency to decrease (p < 0.10) in methane was also observed in the in vitro incubation with the rumen fluid obtained from the CNSL cows compared with those from the control cows. These results suggest that adding CNSL to diets could reduce the methane yield of cows in practical conditions.
Perceived greenwashing and employee green behavior: The roles of green organizational identity and self‐serving leadership
Authors: Ma Yufei , Zhao Shuming , Chen Jiaxi , Hu Chenhong , Qu Jiaojiao
Published: July 2024

Greenwashing has become a common way in which many enterprises address expectations related to corporate social responsibility. As an abnormal and fake type of social responsibility behavior, greenwashing causes many problems, thus highlighting the importance of exploring the impact of corporate greenwashing. However, previous studies have mainly examined the impacts of greenwashing on enterprises, industry, and society, and the impact of greenwashing on individual employee behavior, which is important with regard to the sustainability of the enterprise, remains limited. The main purpose of this study is to explore how perceived greenwashing affects employee green behavior (EGB). Based on the stimulus–organism–response theory and social cognitive theory, a two‐wave survey was conducted to investigate 232 Chinese enterprise employees. The impact of perceived greenwashing on EGB was analyzed. The mediating role of green organizational identity (GOI) and the moderating role of self‐serving leadership in this context were examined. The results reveal that perceived greenwashing is negatively related to EGB. Furthermore, GOI mediates the direct relationship between perceived greenwashing and EGB. Self‐serving leadership weakens the positive relationship between GOI and EGB. This study thus develops a theoretical model of greenwashing and EGB. It also provides empirical evidence that can support attempts to promote EGB.
Session Frequency or Working Model? An Investigation into How We Can Think of the Difference Between ‘Intensive’ and ‘Non‐Intensive’ Work Using the Comparative Clinical Method
Authors: Spurling Laurence , McGregor Hepburn Jan , Doctor Ronald
Published: July 2024

This is an exploratory account of an applied clinical method, the Comparative Clinical Method, used to address a specific question: how can we best think of the difference between intensive and non‐intensive analytic work? Normally, it is session frequency that is taken as a determining difference, as a marker of a different approach or method being employed. In our investigation, which consisted of the three authors presenting examples of their clinical work to each other, we did not find the intensive and non‐intensive work of each author to demonstrate clear and easily defined differences in method or technique. Instead, we found more evidence of each author adopting a coherent and consistent approach, based on an underlying and implicit working model, across their intensive and non‐intensive work. We conclude from this that the differences between intensive and non‐intensive work are best explored by encouraging more conceptually rigorous and clinically specific descriptions of the different kinds of analytic assumptions and methods employed in ordinary analytic clinical work.
Delay of gratification and adult outcomes: The Marshmallow Test does not reliably predict adult functioning
Authors: Sperber Jessica F. , Vandell Deborah Lowe , Duncan Greg J. , Watts Tyler W.
Published: July 2024

This study extends the analytic approach conducted by Watts et al. (2018) to examine the long‐term predictive validity of delay of gratification. Participants (n = 702; 83% White, 46% male) completed the Marshmallow Test at 54 months (1995–1996) and survey measures at age 26 (2017–2018). Using a preregistered analysis, Marshmallow Test performance was not strongly predictive of adult achievement, health, or behavior. Although modest bivariate associations were detected with educational attainment (r = .17) and body mass index (r = −.17), almost all regression‐adjusted coefficients were nonsignificant. No clear pattern of moderation was detected between delay of gratification and either socioeconomic status or sex. Results indicate that Marshmallow Test performance does not reliably predict adult outcomes. The predictive and construct validity of the ability to delay of gratification are discussed.
Molecular genetics in 1991 arrhythmia probands and 2782 relatives in Norway: Results from 17 years of genetic testing in a national laboratory
Authors: Stava Tonje Talsnes , Berge Knut Erik , Haugaa Kristina Hermann , Smedsrud Marit Kristine , Leren Trond P. , Bogsrud Martin Prøven
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study was to explore the prevalence of likely pathogenic or pathogenic variants and assess the diagnostic yield from genetic testing for cardiac arrhythmias in Norway since 2003. Data from 1991 probands and 2782 relatives were retrospectively collected from the laboratory information management system at Unit for Cardiac and Cardiovascular Genetics, Oslo University hospital. Of 1991 probands, 57.4% were females, age at genetic testing was 33.1 (±22.7) years, and 32.5% were under the age of 18. A likely pathogenic or pathogenic variant (including 14 novel) was detected in 15.4% in total. Of the 2782 relatives, 53.7% were females, age at genetic testing was 35.6 (±22.5) years, 27.3% were under the age of 18, and 45.3% carried the family variant. Probands and relatives combined, 1/3356 persons in the Norwegian population were heterozygous for an arrhythmia‐causing variant. The founder variant p.Q530X (NM_000218.2: c.1588C>T) in KCNQ1 accounted for 34% of all variants in Norway. In conclusion, genetic testing provided a genetic basis of the arrhythmia in 15.4% of the probands. Familial cascade screening identified four times as many variant‐positive relatives, allowing early detection and prompt stratification of arrhythmic risk of those variant carriers.
A de novo novel variant in the MT‐TD gene is associated with prominent extra‐neurologic manifestations
Authors: Sun Liuyu , Ren Yali , Ma Yinan , Zhu Ying , Wu Ye , Wang Suxia , Nie Lin , Xiao Huijie , Jiang Yuwu , Wang Fang
Published: July 2024

Defects in the mitochondrial tRNA genes cause a group of highly clinically and genetically heterogeneous disorders, which poses a challenge for clinical identification and genetic diagnosis. Here, we present a pre‐school boy with a novel MT‐TD variant m.7560T>C at the heteroplasmy level of 76.53% in blood, 93.34% in urine sediments, and absent in the healthy mother's blood and urine. Besides convulsions, brain magnetic resonance imaging abnormalities and high plasma lactate, the boy presented with the prominent extra‐neurologic phenotype including steroid‐resistant nephrotic syndrome associated with focal segmental glomerulosclerosis characterized by abnormal mitochondria in podocytes, cortical blindness, and pancreatitis. To our knowledge, this is the unique case with MT‐TD m.7560T>C‐related multi‐organ impairments, which expands the phenotypic and mutational spectrum of primary mitochondrial diseases.
Adenylyl cyclase 2 expression and function in neurological diseases
Authors: Gray Marsilla , Nash Kevin R. , Yao Yao
Published: July 2024

Adenylyl cyclases (Adcys) catalyze the formation of cAMP, a secondary messenger essential for cell survival and neurotransmission pathways in the CNS. Adcy2, one of ten Adcy isoforms, is highly expressed in the CNS. Abnormal Adcy2 expression and mutations have been reported in various neurological disorders in both rodents and humans. However, due to the lack of genetic tools, loss‐of‐function studies of Adcy2 are scarce. In this review, we summarize recent findings on Adcy2 expression and function in neurological diseases. Specifically, we first introduce the biochemistry, structure, and function of Adcy2 briefly. Next, the expression and association of Adcy2 in human patients and rodent models of neurodegenerative diseases (Alzheimer's disease and Parkinson's disease), psychiatric disorders (Tourette syndrome, schizophrenia, and bipolar disorder), and other neurological conditions (stress‐associated disorders, stroke, epilepsy, and Lesch‐Nyhan Syndrome) are elaborated. Furthermore, we discuss the pros and cons of current studies as well as key questions that need to be answered in the future. We hope to provide a focused review on Adcy2 that promotes future research in the field.
Chromium and cobalt in leather: A Danish market survey
Authors: Jensen Mikkel Bak , Alinaghi Farzad , Chen Ivan , Hedberg Jonas F. , Hedberg Yolanda S. , Zachariae Claus , Johansen Jeanne Duus
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Leather has been a significant source of chromium (Cr) allergy in Denmark since the 1990s. More recently, cobalt (Co) allergy has been identified in leather as a source of allergic contact dermatitis.

Objectives

To measure Cr and Co levels in Danish leather goods.

Methods

A total of 87 leather samples were collected, all tanned in Europe. Handheld X‐ray fluorescence (XRF) device was used to screen for the presence of Cr and Co. The 20 leather samples with the highest concentrations of Co and Co were tested using International Organization for Standardization (ISO)‐standards.

Results

XRF analysis showed Cr in 78/87 (83.9%) samples and Co in 52/87 (59.7%), with average concentrations of 41 mg/kg (range: 0.0–77 mg/kg) and 0.22 mg/kg (range: 0.0–2.9 mg/kg), respectively. ISO 10195 and 17 075–1 testing identified Cr (VI) in 7 out of 20 samples (1.4; 0.3–4.2 mg/kg), while ISO 17072‐1 detected Co in 6 of 20 samples, averaging 3.95 mg/kg (range: 0.22–7.9 mg/kg).

Conclusion

Most leather samples contained Cr, which was expected, while Cr (VI) was detectable in seven out of twenty tested samples but only detected in one product above the regulatory limit of 3 mg/kg. A potentially significant concentration was found for Co.
The role of incretin receptor agonists in the treatment of obesity
Authors: Forst Thomas , De Block Christophe , Del Prato Stefano , Armani Sara , Frias Juan , Lautenbach Anne , Ludvik Bernhard , Marinez Marina , Mathieu Chantal , Müller Timo D. , Schnell Oliver
Published: July 2024

Introdroduction

Obesity and its associated metabolic conditions have become a significant global health problem in recent years, with many people living with obesity fulfilling criteria for pharmacological treatment. The development of the glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonists for chronic weight management has triggered new interest in the incretins and other hormones as targets for obesity, and investigations into dual and triple co‐agonists.

Methods

The objective of this narrative review was to summarize the available data on approved and emerging incretin‐based agents for the treatment of obesity.

Results

In clinical trials of currently available agents in people with overweight or obesity, weight loss of between 6% and 21% of baseline body weight has been observed, with between 23% and 94% of participants achieving 10% or higher weight loss, depending on the study and the agent used. Favourable outcomes have also been seen with regard to cardiovascular risk and outcomes, diabetes prevention, metabolic dysfunction‐associated steatotic liver disease/steatohepatitis and prevention of weight regain after metabolic surgery. Limitations associated with these agents include high costs, the potential for weight regain once treatment is stopped, the potential loss of lean body mass and gastrointestinal adverse events; potential issues with respect to gallbladder and biliary diseases require further investigation.

Conclusions

Many dual and triple co‐agonists are still in development, and more data are needed to assess the efficacy, safety and tolerability of these emerging therapies versus the established incretin‐based therapies; however, data are promising, and further results are eagerly awaited.
Cost‐effectiveness analysis of a digital diabetes‐prevention programme versus an in‐person diabetes‐prevention programme in people with prediabetes in the United States
Authors: Park Sooyeol , Ballreich Jeromie , Ward Trevor , Shi Lizheng
Published: July 2024

Aim

To assess the cost‐effectiveness of a digital diabetes prevention programme (d‐DPP) compared with a diabetes prevention programme (DPP) for preventing type 2 diabetes (T2D) in individuals with prediabetes in the United States.

Methods

A Markov cohort model was constructed, simulating a 10‐year period starting at the age of 45 years, with a societal and healthcare sector perspective. The effectiveness of the d‐DPP intervention was evaluated using a meta‐analysis, with that of the DPP as the comparator. The initial cycle represented the treatment period, and transition probabilities for the post‐treatment period were derived from a long‐term lifestyle intervention meta‐analysis. The onset of T2D complications was estimated using microsimulation. Quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) were calculated based on health utility measured by short form (SF)‐12 scores, and a willingness‐to‐pay threshold of $100 000 per QALY gained was applied.

Results

The d‐DPP intervention resulted in cost savings of $3,672 from a societal perspective and $2,990 from a healthcare sector perspective and a gain of 0.08 QALYs compared with the DPP. The dropout rate was identified as a significant factor influencing the results. Probabilistic sensitivity analysis showed that the d‐DPP intervention was preferred in 85.8% in the societal perspective and 85.2% in the healthcare sector perspective.

Conclusions

The d‐DPP is a cost‐effective alternative to in‐person lifestyle interventions for preventing the development of T2D among individuals with prediabetes in the United States.
Body weight change associated kidney outcomes of sodium–glucose cotransporter new users
Authors: Jimba Takahiro , Kaneko Hidehiro , Azegami Tatsuhiko , Suzuki Yuta , Okada Akira , Ko Toshiyuki , Fujiu Katsuhito , Takeda Norifumi , Morita Hiroyuki , Hayashi Kaori , Nishiyama Akira , Node Koichi , Yasunaga Hideo , Takeda Norihiko , Nangaku Masaomi , Komuro Issei
Published: July 2024

Aim

To investigate the clinical significance of body weight changes on kidney outcomes among individuals with diabetes using sodium–glucose cotransporter‐2 (SGLT2) inhibitors.

Materials and Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study using a nationwide epidemiological database, and we conducted an analysis involving 11 569 individuals with diabetes who were newly prescribed SGLT2 inhibitors. The main outcome was the rate of decline in estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR), determined through a linear mixed‐effects model with an unstructured covariance structure.

Results

The median age of the patients was 52 (Q1–Q3: 47–58) years, and the median fasting plasma glucose and glycated haemoglobin (HbA1c) levels were 144 (Q1–Q3: 124–175) mg/dL and 7.4 (Q1–Q3: 6.8–8.3)%, respectively. The median estimated eGFR was 77.7 (Q1–Q3: 67.2–89.1) mL/min/1.73 m2. The median follow‐up period was 1.7 (Q1–Q3: 1.0–2.6) years. Participants were stratified into three groups based on the body mass index change rate tertiles between baseline and 1 year after (tertile 1: <−4.55%, tertile 2: −4.55% to −1.43%, tertile 3: >−1.43%). The annual change in eGFR was −0.78 (−0.94 to −0.63) mL/min/1.73 m2 in tertile 1, −0.95 (−1.09 to −0.81) mL/min/1.73 m2 in tertile 2, and −1.65 mL/min/1.73 m2 (−1.84 to −1.47) in tertile 3 (pinteraction < 0.001). A variety of sensitivity analyses confirmed the relationship between the 1‐year body mass index decrease and favourable kidney outcomes after SGLT2 inhibitor administration.

Conclusions

Our analysis of a nationwide epidemiological cohort revealed that kidney outcomes following the initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors would be more favourable, with greater body weight loss observed after the initiation of SGLT2 inhibitors.
Posttransplantation cyclophosphamide mediates effective reconstitution of memory B cells after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation
Authors: Hayashi Tetsuya , Nakashima Yasuhiro , Takeda Shinichi , Nishimoto Mitsutaka , Okamura Hiroshi , Takakuwa Teruhito , Kuno Masatomo , Makuuchi Yosuke , Ido Kentaro , Sakatoku Kazuki , Horiuchi Mirei , Koh Hideo , Nakamae Mika , Hino Masayuki , Nakamae Hirohisa
Published: July 2024

Objectives

Impaired B‐cell reconstitution after allogeneic hematopoietic cell transplantation (allo‐HCT) contributes to the pathogenesis of chronic graft‐versus‐host disease (cGVHD). Therefore, methods to consistently achieve effective B cell lymphogenesis are required. We assessed the long‐term effects of posttransplantation cyclophosphamide (PTCy) use on immune reconstitution in clinical settings, an emerging strategy to suppress allogeneic immunological inflammation early after allo‐HCT and prevent subsequent GVHD.

Methods

We comprehensively analyzed peripheral immune cell subsets and measured serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) or cytokine levels in 39 patients who survived for >1 year after allo‐HCT.

Results

The absolute counts of B1 and IgM memory B cells were significantly lower in patients with severe cGVHD than in those without. The absolute count and percentage (among total CD19+ B cells) of switched memory B cells and serum IgG levels were significantly higher in patients transplanted with PTCy than in those transplanted with conventional GVHD prophylaxis. Interestingly, increased percentages of switched memory B cells and serum IgG levels were observed only in patients transplanted with PTCy and not in those transplanted with umbilical cord blood.

Conclusions

PTCy administration can mediate favorable memory B‐cell reconstitution long after allo‐HCT and may therefore suppress cGVHD.
Congenital angular deviations of the tail in horses
Authors: Valletti Carlotta , Schmitz Thomas R. , Egle Reiner , Haab Matthias , Auer Joerg A.
Published: July 2024

In this clinical commentary, the various pathologies occurring in the tail region of horses and foals are briefly summarised, followed by a discussion of angular deviations of the tail and the possibilities of their correction.
American Headache Society white paper on treatment of post‐traumatic headache from concussion in youth
Authors: Patterson Gentile Carlyn , Rosenthal Scott , Blume Heidi , Rastogi Reena Gogia , McVige Jennifer , Bicknese Alma , Ladak Ali , Zaveri Harshul , Greene Kaitlin , Barlow Karen
Published: July 2024

Objective

To provide healthcare professionals guidance on youth at risk for prolonged recovery and post‐traumatic headache (PTH), and on pharmacologic and non‐pharmacologic management of PTH due to concussion and mild traumatic brain injury.

Background

Headache is the most common persistent post‐concussive symptom affecting 8% of youth for >3 months after concussion. Over the past decade, many studies have explored the treatment of PTH in youth, but there are no established guidelines.

Methods

This white paper is based on a synthesis of an updated systematic review of the literature on treatment of PTH and a narrative review of the literature on risk factors for prolonged recovery and health disparities. Results were interpreted by a group of expert providers in PTH in children and adolescents through collaboration of the PTH and pediatric special interest groups of the American Headache Society.

Results

Factors that consistently were associated with prolonged recovery from concussion and persistent PTH included female sex, a high number of acute symptoms, and adolescent age. Social determinants of health also likely play an important role in PTH and deserve consideration in the clinical and research settings. A total of 33 studies met the criteria for inclusion in the systematic review of PTH treatment in youth, although most were retrospective and of fair‐to‐poor quality. Treatment strategies included acute and preventive pharmacologic management, procedures, neuro‐modulatory devices, physical therapy, physical activity, and behavioral health support. A collaborative care approach that includes a thoughtful combination of these management strategies is likely most effective.

Conclusions

This white paper provides a roadmap for tailoring the treatment of PTH based on factors influencing prolonged headache, the timing of therapies, and therapies with the most evidence for treating PTH in youth. We also highlight research needed for developing more definitive guidelines on PTH management in youth.
Estimating the mass of the Great Auk (Pinguinus impennis) and its egg
Authors: Montgomerie Robert D. , Birkhead Tim R.
Published: July 2024

The body mass and egg mass of the Great Auk Pinguinus impennis were never measured before the bird was driven to extinction in 1844. Previous studies conducted before 1990 used data from related species to estimate the mass of an adult bird at 4500–5000 g, and the fresh mass of its egg as 327–372 g. In the present study, we use a larger dataset of measurements from extant alcids, and statistical methods that control for the effects of phylogeny, to provide new estimates for those traits. The presumed body mass of the Great Auk was initially derived from a hearsay report from the 19th century, and then supported by subsequent comparative analyses based on skeletal measurements. Our new best estimates from currently available data show that the Great Auk's body mass was probably closer to 3560 g and its fresh egg mass was about 350 g. This new body mass estimate is the average of predictions from independent regressions of body mass on (1) tibiotarsus and femur lengths (3441 g) and (2) egg volume (3681 g). We calculated the Great Auk's fresh egg mass from a regression of fresh egg mass on egg volume in the extant alcids. Providing more accurate estimates of the body and egg mass of Great Auk can inform speculation about the developmental mode, ecology and life history of this iconic, extinct species.
Common practices of dental implant maintenance among dental hygienists working in the Netherlands – A survey
Authors: Loeffen Anouk W. M. , Van Swaaij Bregje W. M. , Saminsky Michael , Slot Dagmar Else
Published: July 2024

Background

Dental implant maintenance is crucial to obtain and maintain a healthy peri‐implant situation. Although it is part of a dental hygienists (DH) scope of practice, the knowledge and common practices among DHs in the Netherlands are unclear.

Materials and Methods

A web‐based survey was distributed by the Dutch Association of DHs, by spreading survey QR codes and snowballing. The role of the different DH curricula 2‐ or 3‐year diploma and a 4‐year bachelor's degree is evaluated.

Results

In total, 165 (diploma: 73, bachelor: 92) DHs responded. Peri‐implant diseases were well known (98%), indices and clinical symptoms were used to assess peri‐implant tissues. A periodontal probe (97%) was used and bone loss was evaluated on radiographs (89%). Treatment was performed supra‐ and subgingivally (69%), mostly by titanium (45%) or plastic hand instruments (42%). Ultrasonic (52%) and air‐abrasive (52%) devices were often used. The recall interval for maintenance was based on a risk‐adjusted protocol (70%). DHs with a bachelor's received significantly more training compared to DHs with a diploma during primary education (p < 0.001). Diploma DHs mainly obtained their knowledge from continuing education (p = 0.04). In general, there was no significant difference in knowledge or common practices.

Conclusions

The primary education of DHs with a 2‐ or 3‐year diploma and a 4‐year bachelor's varies. Due to the continuing education of diploma DHs, knowledge and common practices generally do not differ. Most DHs in the Netherlands perform implant maintenance. A periodontal probe and radiographs are used for examination. Instrumentation is performed supra‐ and subgingivally, usually with titanium or plastic hand instruments. The recall interval is based on a patient's risk assessment.
Study on the stability of four flavonoid glycoside components in Myrica Rubra pomace and their mechanism of in vitro hypoglycaemic activity
Authors: Tian Siyi , Chang Guoli , Xiang Yannan , Cai Chenggang , Luo Xinyu , Zhu Ruiyu , Yang Hailong , Gao Haiyan
Published: July 2024

In order to investigate the hypoglycaemic mechanism and potential applications of four hypoglycaemic flavonoid glycosides, namely myricitrin, Cyanidin‐3‐O‐glucoside (C3G), hyperoside and quercitrin in Myrica rubra pomace, the stability of these four flavonoid glycosides and their binding mechanisms were studied using molecular docking. The results demonstrated that pH value affects on the stability of these four components in M. rubra pomace. C3G exhibited the most significant inhibitory effect on α‐glucosidase at pH 5, with myricitrin, hyperoside and quercitrin showing the highest inhibitory effect at pH 7. Moreover, an increase in temperature and storage time reduced the inhibitory effect of these four glycosidic components on α‐glucosidase. Molecular docking analysis revealed that myricitrin formed hydrogen bonds with the active site residues of α‐glucosidase, namely Phe550, Ile552, Asp555, Ser574 and Arg576, and also engaged in hydrophobic interactions with Lys551. Hyperoside formed hydrogen bonds with α‐glucosidase, formed hydrophobic interactions with Lys50 and exhibited π‐cation interaction with Lys53. Quercitrin formed hydrogen bonds with α‐glucosidase, formed hydrophobic interactions with Lys500 and established salt bridges with Lys50. C3G formed hydrogen bonds and hydrophobic interactions with α‐glucosidase and showed π‐π interactions with Phe301. These findings will provide valuable insights for the application of these four chemicals.
The Spirit as Plural Person
Authors: Bustion Olivia
Published: July 2024

According to plural person theory, a group of close friends can act together not just distributively, as separate individuals all at once, but also corporately, as a nonmetaphorical plural person supervening on the friends. This article proposes that the Spirit is a plural person in precisely this sense. Modeling the Spirit as a plural person not only secures the Spirit's personhood and full divinity; it also provides a new conceptual scheme for interpreting the relationship between divine grace and human agency along non‐competitive lines. What is more, it makes sense of existing Christian practices, including Ignatian contemplation, evangelical quiet time, and Quaker waiting worship.
The Colophon of Eternal Beatitude: Petrus van Mastricht, the Visio Dei, and the Resurrection of the Body
Authors: Hill Daniel Lee
Published: July 2024

Recent work in eschatology has sought to retrieve the doctrine of the beatific vision, one that has served as one of the predominant views of the eschatological life throughout church history. Yet the doctrine has been criticized for its reported marginalization of the human body. This essay seeks to provide a modest contribution and response to this objection through the retrieval of 17th‐century theologian Petrus van Mastricht. I argue that humanity's telos can be conceived of as complex involving a particular mode of life with God that the visio Dei makes possible, one which requires the resurrection and glorification of the body.
Fruitbody and root data infer different environmental niches for ectomycorrhizal fungi
Authors: Qi Muyao , Suz Laura M. , Bidartondo Martin I. , Orme C. David L. , Delhaye Guillaume , Openshaw Isabel , Tovar Carolina
Published: July 2024

Aim

We used two fungal data sources for occurrence records (fruitbodies and roots) to (1) test the influence of data source on estimating the environmental niche of ectomycorrhizal (ECM) fungi and (2) compare the differences in estimated niche area and density for ECM fungal species with conspicuous (easily observed, i.e. mushrooms) versus inconspicuous (difficult to observe and/or usually overlooked, i.e. crusts and truffles) fruitbodies.

Location

Europe.

Taxon

Sixty‐six ectomycorrhizal fungi.

Methods

We used fungal records obtained from fruitbody and root data of 66 common ECM fungal species in European forests to estimate their environmental niches. The fruitbody data were extracted from public databases (GBIF, UNITE), while the root data (from individual ectomycorrhizas) were obtained from a dataset of 136 ICP Forests long‐term intensive monitoring plots. We estimated the niches for combined data sources (fruitbody and root data) and for each individual data source using six key environmental variables for ECM fungal community composition. We then examined how estimated niche overlap and area (number of cells in niche grid) varied for the two data sources between conspicuous and inconspicuous species.

Results

We found that although the niches estimated using combined data from the two data sources had high overlap with the niches estimated from fruitbody data, the niches estimated from fruitbody data had low or medium overlap with the niches estimated using root data for most ECM fungi. The overlap between the two data sources for conspicuous species was significantly larger than that for inconspicuous species. Root data were important for estimating the niche of inconspicuous species, which had a high ratio of root data to fruitbody data.

Main Conclusion

Our results indicate that although fruitbody data suffice for estimating the environmental niche for most conspicuous ECM fungi, combined datasets including fruitbody and root data can improve the accuracy of estimated niches and should be used. Root data for inconspicuous species are particularly useful, and thus, adopting root data in niche estimation will better infer the niches of ECM fungi. Inferring niches along environmental variables can guide future sampling and conservation of fungi.
The liquid–liquid phase separation signature predicts the prognosis and immunotherapy response in hepatocellular carcinoma
Authors: Wang Zhiyong , Wang Guoliang , Zhao Peng , Sun Ping
Published: July 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common and fatal malignancy characterized by poor patient prognosis and treatment outcome. The process of liquid–liquid phase separation in tumour cells alters the dysfunction of biomolecular condensation in tumour cells, which affects tumour progression and treatment. We downloaded the data of HCC samples from TCGA database and GEO database, and used a machine learning method to build a new liquid–liquid phase separation index (LLPSI) by liquid–liquid phase separation related genes. The LLPSI‐related column line Figure was constructed to provide a quantitative tool for clinical practice. HCC patients were divided into high and low LLPSI groups based on LLPSI, and clinical features, tumour immune microenvironment, chemotherapeutic response, and immunotherapeutic response were systematically analysed. LLPSI, which consists of five liquid–liquid phase separation‐associated genes (MAPT, WDR62, PLK1, CDCA8 and TOP2A), is a reliable predictor of survival in patients with HCC and has been validated in multiple external datasets. We found that the high LLPSI group showed higher levels of immune cell infiltration and better response to immunotherapy compared to the low LLPSI group, and LLPSI can also be used for prognostic prediction in various cancers other than HCC. In vitro experiments verified that knockdown of MAPT could inhibit the proliferation and migration of HCC. The LLPSI identified in this study can accurately assess the prognosis of patients with HCC and identify patient populations that will benefit from immunotherapy, providing valuable insights into the clinical management of HCC.