bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Preparation of functional supplement powder using nanoliposome‐containing marine bioactive compounds
Authors: Amiri Hadis , Shabanpour Bahare , Pourashouri Parastoo , kashiri Mahboobeh
Published: November 2024

The demand for marine bioactive compounds as therapeutic agents in supplements or functional foods has increased. However, their instability, bitter taste, and potential degradation during digestion have hindered their widespread use. To overcome these problems, a functional supplement powder was produced using the encapsulation technique of nanoliposomes containing shrimp lipid extract, fish oil (FO), and fish protein hydrolysate. Chitosan and whey protein concentrate (WPC) were used to coat the nanoliposomes in mono/bilayer and composite forms, followed by freeze‐drying for 72 h. The physicochemical characteristics, nutritional, in vitro release, and sensory evaluation were investigated. The WPC‐monolayer treatment exhibited the highest solubility (28.83 mg/100 g), encapsulation efficiency (97.67%), and polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs). Although the mono/bilayer treatments of whey protein showed lower docosahexaenoic acid and eicosapentaenoic acid than FO, they presented a favorable amino acid profile. Compared to acidic stomach conditions, the release in the intestine was higher. Incorporating 1.5 g of the supplement powder per 100 g of milk can meet an individual's daily nutritional needs for essential amino acids and PUFAs. Therefore, encapsulating marine bioactive compounds in liposomal carriers could be a beneficial approach to their direct use as a nutritious powder.
Neural correlates associated with a family history of alcohol use disorder: A narrative review of recent findings
Authors: Cservenka Anita , Azma Sheeva
Published: November 2024

A family history of alcohol use disorder (AUD) is associated with a significantly increased risk of developing AUD in one's lifetime. The previously reviewed literature suggests there are structural and functional neurobiological markers associated with familial AUD, but to our knowledge, no recent review has synthesized the latest findings across neuroimaging studies in this at‐risk population. For this narrative review, we conducted keyword searches in electronic databases to find cross‐sectional and longitudinal studies (2015‐present) that used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), diffusion tensor imaging, task‐based functional MRI (fMRI), and/or resting state functional connectivity MRI. These studies were used to identify gray matter, white matter, and brain activity markers of risk and resilience in family history positive (FHP) individuals with a family history of AUD. FHP individuals have greater early adolescent thinning of executive functioning (frontal lobe) regions; however, some studies have reported null effects or greater gray matter volume and thickness relative to family history negative (FHN) peers without familial AUD. FHP individuals also have white matter microstructure alterations, such as reduced integrity of fronto‐striatal pathways. Recent fMRI studies have found greater inhibitory control activity in FHP individuals, while reward‐related findings are mixed. A growing interest in identifying intrinsic connectivity differences between FHP and FHN individuals has emerged in recent years. Familial AUD is related to both structural and functional brain alterations. Research should continue to focus on (1) longitudinal analyses with larger samples, (2) assessment of personal substance use and prenatal exposure to alcohol, (3) the effects of comorbid familial psychopathology, (4) examination of sex‐specific markers of risk and resilience, (5) neural predictors of alcohol use initiation, and (6) brain–behavior relationships. These efforts would aid the design of neurobiologically informed prevention and intervention efforts focused on this at‐risk population.
Corporate governance, blockholders, and financial distress: Global evidence
Authors: Celiktas Mehmet , Ugurlu Mine , Yilmaz Neslihan
Published: November 2024

This study examines the impact of corporate governance mechanisms and ownership structure on financial distress for 23 developed and 27 emerging countries across different markets and legal systems and during the crisis period. In developed markets, CEO duality increases distress, which can be mitigated through independent boards and majority blockholders. Independent boards, specifically in common‐law countries, alleviate distress, yet, may escalate the adverse impact of blockholders as independent boards may not be effective monitors. In emerging markets (EM), independent boards increase distress, potentially reflecting political appointments. Institutional blockholders hurt firm financial health, though, strategic blockholders may substitute for board monitoring in weak governance environments. During the crisis period, a larger and independent board has the potential to decrease financial distress.
N‐acetylcysteine as a treatment for substance use cravings: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Winterlind Emma L. , Malone Samantha G. , Setzer Michael R. , Murphy Mikela A. , Saunders David , Gray Joshua C.
Published: November 2024

N‐acetylcysteine (NAC) may serve as a novel pharmacotherapy for substance use and substance craving in individuals with substance use disorders (SUDs), possibly through its potential to regulate glutamate. Though prior meta‐analyses generally support NAC's efficacy in reducing symptoms of craving, individual trials have found mixed results. The aims of this updated meta‐analysis were to (1) examine the efficacy of NAC in treating symptoms of craving in individuals with SUD and (2) explore subgroup differences, risk of bias and publication bias across trials. Database searches of PubMed, Cochrane Library and ClinicalTrials.gov were conducted in June and July of 2023 to identify relevant randomized control trials (RCTs). The meta‐analysis consisted of 9 trials which analysed data from a total of 623 participants. The most targeted substance in the clinical trials was alcohol (3/9; 33.3%), followed by tobacco (2/9; 22.2%) and multiple substances (2/9; 22.2%). Meta‐analysis, subgroup analyses and leave‐one‐out analyses were conducted to examine the treatment effect on craving symptoms and adverse events (AEs). Risk of bias assessments, Egger's tests and funnel plot tests were conducted to examine the risk of bias and publication bias. NAC did not significantly outperform placebo in reducing symptoms of craving in the meta‐analysis (SMD = 0.189, 95% CI = −0.015–0.393). Heterogeneity was very high in the meta‐analysis (99.26%), indicating that findings may have been influenced by clinical or methodological differences in the study protocols. Additionally, results indicate that there may be publication bias present. Overall, our findings are contrary to those of prior meta‐analyses, suggesting a limited impact of NAC on substance craving. However, the high heterogeneity and presence of publication bias identified warrants cautious interpretation of the meta‐analytic outcomes.
And their minds, their minds are not in grief anymore
Authors: Croteau Chantal
Published: November 2024

“And their minds, their minds are not in grief anymore” is a short creative non‐fiction piece that blurs genre and style. It features a small segment of an interview with Ajarn Manat, the abbot of a modest temple in southern Thailand that had served as temporary housing for tsunami refugees following the devastating wave in December 2004. The interview is preserved in the left column. The right column weaves together a reflection on the moment of the interview and pieces of a different but interconnected archive. The piece can be read in multiple ways, either by preserving columns or flowing seamlessly across.
Clinical characteristics and long‐term outcomes of Venoarterial extracorporeal membrane oxygenation in children with congenital heart disease
Authors: Yu Xindi , Yang Yinyu , Guo Zheng , Shen Jia , Xie Li , Xu Zhuoming , Zhang Haibo , Zhang Wei , Wang Wei
Published: November 2024

Objectives

To analyze the clinical outcomes of extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (ECMO) support in children with congenital heart disease (CHD) after surgery and explore the risk factors associated with mortality during long‐term follow‐up for 3–5 years.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective observational study at Shanghai Children Medical Center (SCMC) from 2017 to 2021 and reviewed the clinical results and laboratory findings of 188 CHD patients who received ECMO support during this period.

Results

The 5‐year overall survival rate was 56.38% (106/188) among CHD patients who received ECMO support. Kaplan–Meier curve showed residual anatomical malformation (RAM) (p < 0.0001), gastrointestinal bleeding (p = 0.019), single ventricular (SV) (p = 0.028), and pre‐ECMO lactate level >10 mmol/L (p < 0.0001) were significantly associated with higher mortality in follow‐up. Cox analysis identified RAM (p = 0.039) and pre‐ECMO lactate level >10 mmol/L (p < 0.001) as independent risk factors for overall survival. Conversely, a minimum platelet count ≥50 × 109/L (p < 0.001) was found to be a protective factor. Moreover, a competing risk model showed that a CPR time ≥60 min (p < 0.001) was identified as a risk factor for death in patients who failed to be discharged from the hospital.

Conclusions

Our study showed characteristics of long‐term follow‐up patients and revealed several risk factors associated with mortality in children with CHD who received ECMO support. These findings can provide valuable insights for clinical decision‐making and contribute to improving patient outcomes.
Review Article: Green Management of IBD—New Paradigms for an Eco‐Friendly Approach
Authors: Cammarota Giovanni , Laterza Lucrezia , Bibbò Stefano , Fusco William , Rozera Tommaso , Di Brino Eugenio , Porcari Serena , Scaldaferri Franco , Ianiro Gianluca , Gasbarrini Antonio , Armuzzi Alessandro
Published: November 2024

Background

The worldwide prevalence of inflammatory bowel disease (IBD) is increasing, with its potential evolution as a global disease and a consequent increase in its burden on healthcare systems. These estimates do not factor in the ‘real’ price of IBD, which, beyond curbing career aspirations, instilling social stigma, and impairing the quality of life in patients, could also significantly affect the environment.

Aim

To highlight potential areas for intervention and develop management strategies aimed at minimising environmental impacts in the field of IBD over time.

Methods

Various aspects of IBD care (organisation of IBD centres, diagnostics and therapeutics) are examined from an environmental sustainability perspective.

Results

Each stage, from the patient's means of transport to the hospital to the physician's diagnostic and therapeutic decisions, contribute to CO2 and waste production. Strategies to contain the environmental impact are feasible. Some are easy to implement, such as ensuring the appropriateness of the diagnostic and therapeutic pathway for patients; others need to be implemented in synergy with healthcare providers' policies and pharmaceutical companies.

Conclusions

With an inevitable increase in the number of patient visits, endoscopies, laboratory testing, and long‐term therapeutic strategies for IBD, the clinical community should be aware of environmental concerns and investigate possible strategies to reduce the environmental impact of IBD care.
Dietary water fly (Notonecta sp.) meal as an alternative protein source for sheep: Effects on performance, nutrient intake, nitrogen balance, and fermentation parameters
Authors: Robles Jimenez Lizbeth E. , Ghavipanje Navid , Renna Manuela , Ortega Octavio Alonso Castelán , Vargas‐Bello‐Pérez Einar , Gonzalez‐Ronquillo Manuel
Published: November 2024

In this study, the inclusion of water fly (Notonecta sp., NT) meal was compared with conventional protein sources such as soybean meal (SBM) and fish meal (FM) in diets destined for sheep, with specific reference to growth performance, nutrient intake, nitrogen balance, and in vitro rumen fermentation parameters. For 21 days, 18 male Suffolk lambs were randomly assigned to three experimental diets fed: (1) SBM at 130 g/kg dry matter (DM), as a plant‐based protein diet; (2) FM at 50 g/kg DM, as an animal‐based protein diet; and (3) NT at 60 g/kg DM, as an insect‐based protein diet, for ad libitum feed intake. DM intake was similar among the treatments. The digestibility of DM (p = 0.006) and organic matter (p = 0.002) in the NT group was lower than that of SBM. In vitro rumen fermentation data showed that there were no differences between the treatments for DM degradation and the production of microbial crude protein. No differences were observed among the treatments in terms of enteric methane production. The NT diet produced the lowest NH3‐N at hours 12 and 24 (p = 0.032 and 0.021, respectively). Overall, the dietary inclusion of NT for fattening lambs could be an alternative feeding strategy without deleterious effects on animal performance.
Effects of quercetagetin on the growth performance, nutrient digestibility, slaughter performance, meat quality, and antioxidant capacity of broiler chickens
Authors: Liang Hui‐qing , Fan Dong‐feng , Hu Wen‐yue , Wu Feng‐yang , Tan Kai , Zhao Peng‐yu , Han Shuai‐juan , Chen Bao‐jiang
Published: November 2024

This study investigated the effects of quercetagetin (QG) on growth performance, nutrient digestibility, meat quality, and antioxidant capacity of broilers. Four hundred 1‐day‐old Cobb broilers were randomly divided into five diets, each with eight replicates and 10 birds per replicate. The diets included a basal diet, and four diets with 25, 50, 100, and 200 mg/kg QG supplemented in basal diet. Body weight on d 21, average daily gain, and average daily feed intake on days 1–21 were quadratically (p < 0.05) increased with increasing QG supplementation. The apparent digestibility of crude protein, ether extract, and total phosphorus increased linearly (p < 0.05) from day 1 to 21, and increased quadratically (p < 0.05) from day 22 to 42. The L* values of leg muscles were lower (p < 0.05) in QG groups than control group. QG supplementation quadratically (p < 0.05) elevated glutathione peroxidase (GSH‐Px) activity and reduced malondialdehyde (MDA) levels in serum. The L* value was negatively correlated with GSH‐Px. These results suggested that QG supplementation (50–100 mg/kg) enhanced early growth, nutrient digestibility, and antioxidant status in broilers, highlighting its functional properties and potential as an additive to improve broiler productivity.
Real‐world experience of paediatric acute promyelocytic leukaemia in the United Kingdom and Ireland
Authors: Vedi Aditi , Leiter Sarah Maria , Memon Irum Latif , Mahendrayogam Arunthethy , Van Rijswijk Elsje , Uparkar Urmila , Shenton Geoff , Trinquand Amelie , Clesham Katherine , McLelland Vanessa , Campbell Helen , Patrick Katharine , Thompson Lyndsey , Baird Susan , Connor Philip , Lancaster Donna , James Beki
Published: November 2024

Acute promyelocytic leukaemia (APL), defined by the t(15;17)(q24;q21) translocation, accounts for 5%–10% of paediatric acute myeloid leukaemia cases. All‐trans retinoic acid (ATRA) and arsenic trioxide (ATO) are key treatments, though ATO access varies. We evaluated treatment, complications and survival in 50 UK paediatric APL patients diagnosed between 2014 and 2021. All patients received ATRA and most received ATO. Event‐free survival was lower in high‐risk patients (85% vs. 100%, p = 0.03), and those not receiving ATO at diagnosis. All relapsed patients could be salvaged with ATO. Addressing ATO availability and consistent funding is crucial to ensure timely treatment and improve outcomes.
Greater preservation of SARS‐CoV‐2 neutralising antibody responses following the ChAdOx1‐S (AZD1222) vaccine compared with mRNA vaccines in haematopoietic cell transplant recipients
Authors: Colton Hayley , Barratt Natalie , Temperton Nigel , Hornsby Hailey , Angyal Adrienn , Grouneva Irina , Lindsey Benjamin B. , Kearns Pamela , Barnes Eleanor , Goodyear Carl S. , Richter Alex , Thomas David , Cook Gordon , McInnes Iain B. , Willicombe Michelle , Siebert Stefan , Orchard Kim , Selby Rachael , Bowden Sarah , Collini Paul J. , Pope Ann , Kirkham Amanda , Kronsteiner Barbara , Dunachie Susanna J. , Miller Paul , Clay Jennifer , Hurst Erin , Malladi Ram , Kesavan Murali , Kinsella Francesca , Sanderson Robin , Yong Kwee L. , Rea Daniel , Parry Helen ,   PITCH Consortium, OCTAVE Collaborative Group, OCTAVE‐DUO Investigators, PROSECO Investigators, Lim Sean H. , Snowden John A. , de Silva Thushan I.
Published: November 2024

Whilst SARS‐CoV‐2 mRNA vaccines generate high neutralising antibodies (nAb) in most individuals, haematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) and chimeric antigen receptor T‐cell (CAR‐T) recipients respond poorly. HSCT/CAR‐T treatment ablates existing immune memory, with recipients requiring revaccination analogous to being vaccine naive. An optimal revaccination strategy for this cohort has not been defined. Factors predicting immunogenicity following three ancestral SARS‐CoV‐2 vaccines were assessed in 198 HSCT/CAR‐T recipients and 96 healthcare workers (HCWs) recruited to multicentre studies. Only 25% of HSCT/CAR‐T recipients generated nAbs following one dose, with titres 167‐fold and 7‐fold lower than that in HCWs after the first and second doses, respectively. Lower post‐second dose nAb titres were associated with older age, rituximab use, and previous HSCT. ChAdOx1‐S recipients were more likely to generate nAbs compared with mRNA vaccines, with titres comparable to HCWs. In contrast, nAbs were significantly lower in HSCT/CAR‐T recipients than HCWs after mRNA vaccination. The poor first‐dose immunogenicity in HSCT/CAR‐T recipients suggests a minimum licensed dosing interval could limit the period of vulnerability following HSCT/CAR‐T. The relative preservation of nAbs with ChAdOx1‐S vaccination highlights the importance of evaluating alternative platforms to mRNA vaccination within this highly vulnerable clinical cohort.
Carcerality and the elimination of Indigenous people in Canada
Authors: Barker Adam J.
Published: November 2024

Drawing from the logic of carcerality, and refined through theories of settler colonialism, I argue in this paper the following. First, carcerality is not just a tactic of settler colonization in Canada for bodily controlling populations, but a key feature of settler colonial claims to land and territory; imposing carceral spaces on Indigenous people is a fundamental necessity for the expectations and ambitions of settler colonization, and as settler colonization in Canada is ongoing, the expansion of these carceral spaces likewise continues. Second, carceral theory can be used to analyze how Indigenous people are made to “disappear” from settler‐dominated spaces, and expose the interlocking roles of state power and social prejudice in these “eliminations.” As all kinds of frontier spaces—urban, rural, and otherwise—are assimilated into the settler colonial assemblage, Indigenous people are forced into mobility that itself is both carceral and eliminatory. Understanding carcerality as something pervasive in settler society, and not just limited to the criminal justice system, changes how we must approach decolonization.
NETosis in pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma
Authors: Oi Hajime , Taki Tetsuro , Kuroe Takashi , Sakamoto Naoya , Sakashita Shingo , Kojima Motohiro , Sugiyama Eri , Umemura Shigeki , Sakai Tetsuya , Izumi Hiroki , Zenke Yoshitaka , Matsumoto Shingo , Yoh Kiyotaka , Ishii Makoto , Tsuboi Masahiro , Goto Koichi , Ishii Genichiro
Published: November 2024

Pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma (PC) is a rare non‐small‐cell lung carcinoma (NSCLC) with a poor prognosis, characterized by tumor necrosis (TN). NETosis is a form of neutrophil‐specific cell death, which is morphologically characterized by prominent neutrophil infiltration and cell detritus in the necrotic foci. Seventy‐six patients with pulmonary PC who underwent complete resection were enrolled. Tumor necrosis was evaluated using digitally scanned resected specimens. The regions of NETosis were quantified using citrullinated histone H3 (citH3)‐ and myeloperoxidase‐positive regions. We examined the association between the NETosis area and the prognostic outcomes and assessed the correlation between the NETosis area and systemic inflammation. Tumor necrosis was observed in 70 patients (92%). In all the cases, the TN region was accompanied by a citH3‐positive region. The patients with high NETosis area (n = 54) had significantly shorter overall survival than those with low NETosis area (n = 16) (p = 0.013). Furthermore, a high NETosis area was an independent poor prognostic factor in the multivariate analyses. Systemic inflammatory markers, including C‐reactive protein (CRP), CRP‐to‐albumin ratio, and neutrophil‐to‐lymphocyte ratio, were significantly higher in patients with high NETosis area than in those with low NETosis area. Furthermore, the levels of these inflammatory markers were significantly decreased postsurgery. This study shows that in surgically resected pulmonary PC, patients with high NETosis areas have higher systemic inflammation and worse prognosis.
Defining Optimal Basophil Passive Sensitisation Parameters
Authors: Alvarez‐Arango Santiago , Dispenza Melanie C. , Chichester Kristin L. , MacGlashan Donald W.
Published: November 2024

Background

Detecting drug‐specific IgE (sIgE) is crucial for diagnosing immediate drug‐induced hypersensitivity reactions. Basophil activation tests serve as a method to determine the presence of drug‐sIgE, highlighting the importance of optimising the assay. Optimisation involves considering multiple factors to ensure sensitisation helps detect an antigen sIgE. The study investigates the complex factors influencing basophil responsiveness thresholds and aims to provide rules‐of‐thumb guidance for expected results.

Methods

Open and occupied FcεRI receptors were analysed by flow cytometry pre‐ and postdissociation of surface‐bound sIgE. Basophils were then sensitised with serial concentrations of penicillin (BPO)‐sIgE in serum or buffer and incubated for 1, 4 and 18 h with or without D2O and/or IL‐3. Basophil sensitivity was evaluated based on FcεRI receptor densities, sIgE/total IgE (tIgE) ratios, responses to BPO(21)‐HSA, and D2O and/or IL‐3 effects, with maximal responses determined using anti‐IgE human antibodies. These optimised conditions were tested with peanut‐sIgE and cat‐sIgE sera.

Results

Basophils from five donors were used. The FcεRI receptor expression initially averaged 155,000/cell (47,000–344,000/cell), with 35% (5%–79%) unoccupied, which postdissociation increased to 98% (82%–100%) unoccupied. Upon sensitisation, the average reloading with BPO‐sIgE was 39% (33%–48%). The ED50 (a measure of cellular sensitivity) was approx. 6000 BPO‐sIgE/cell, and the average maximal anti‐IgE antibody response was 58% (25%–68%). A 4‐h sensitisation at 4°C with IL‐3 pretreatment and 70% D2O allowed the detection of BPO‐sIgE/tIgE ratios as low as 0.02%–0.05% without spontaneous histamine release. Under the same conditions, responses were detected with 0.33% peanut‐sIgE and 0.1% cat‐sIgE ratios.

Conclusion

This study outlines a method to assess basophil sensitisation, emphasising the minimum sIgE/tIgE ratio needed for basophil responsiveness. It considers factors like FcεRI open/unoccupied FcεRI receptors, sIgE/tIgE ratios and the effect of D2O and IL‐3. This sets a strong foundation for refining and advancing basophil activation functional assays.
Transitional implants in computer‐assisted implant surgery and fixed complete‐arch provisionalization: A retrospective case series
Authors: Pedrinaci Ignacio , Ben Dor Betty , Rousson Dominique , Lanis Alejandro , Sanz‐Esporrin Javier , Pala Kevser , Gallucci German O. , Hamilton Adam
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Using mini implants as transitional implants (TIs) for complete arch implant‐supported rehabilitations may overcome limitations associated with mucosa‐supported surgical guides and facilitate immediate fixed provisionalization. This study aimed to assess the success of TIs in supporting surgical guides for implant placement and fixed provisional prostheses.

Methods

Patients who received TIs between 2012 and 2023 for a complete arch implant‐supported prosthesis were evaluated retrospectively. Patient demographic data, TI functionality in supporting a surgical guide and supporting a complete arch provisional prosthesis, and dates of TI placement and regular implant placement were collected. Descriptive statistics were used to determine the survival rate and success rate for TIs.

Results

Twenty‐six patients, 35 jaws, 136 TIs, and 216 regular implants were included. The survival rate of TIs was 74.26%; however, the use of TIs yielded success in 97% of jaws for supporting a surgical guide and a fixed complete‐arch provisional prosthesis throughout the complete provisional phase. An average of 4 TIs per maxilla and 3 TIs per mandible supported surgical guides. Thirty‐five provisional prostheses were placed on an average of 4 TIs in the maxilla and 3 TIs in the mandible. Thirty‐four provisional prostheses were successfully supported by TIs and regular implants until final restoration delivery. The survival of regular implants placed in conjunction with the use of TIs was 98%.

Conclusions

Using TIs to support a surgical guide and provisional prosthesis may be a predictable approach with a high success rate. All surgical guides planned to be supported on TIs were successful. Despite premature loss or replacement of TIs, this approach was able to support most provisional prostheses until the regular implants could be loaded.
A chance for countries to support Ireland's world‐leading cancer warning labels for alcohol containers
Authors: O'Brien Paula , Gleeson Deborah , Kuntsche Emmanuel , Room Robin
Published: November 2024

Ireland has regulated for all packaged alcohol products to include a health warning that states that ‘there is a link between alcohol and fatal cancers’. This warning is being opposed in the World Trade Organization by 12 member states who are raising that the warning is an unnecessary barrier to trade. The World Health Organization is supporting Ireland. Countries should not oppose Ireland's warning which is defensible from legal and public health perspectives.
Informed consent in assisted reproductive technology: Implications for pediatric clinicians
Authors: Graham Mary E. , Blee Shannon , Pentz Rebecca D. , Roebuck Emily , Hoon Alexander H. , Black Mara
Published: November 2024

After conceiving through assisted reproductive technologies (ART), parents may present to their pediatrician with concerns related to their child's neurodevelopment, including whether their child's health may be related to their use of ART. Pediatricians may be unfamiliar with the ART process and what the families endured up to this point, resulting in difficulty counseling parents through these discussions. Before presentation to the pediatrician, parents have undergone extensive evaluation with reproductive endocrinologists. During counseling, the reproductive endocrinologist provides information on maternal and childhood risks associated with ART. However, in this rapidly evolving field, providing comprehensive, patient‐centered, informed consent is increasingly complex and counseling patients properly can be challenging. When parents have gone through the proper informed consent process, and when the pediatrician has an understanding of what this process entails, care of the child can be optimized. In this review, we discuss the complexities of the prenatal informed consent process that parents navigate before presenting to pediatricians. We emphasize the importance of these discussions and highlight ethical principles, as well as emotional, medical, legal, and financial stressors that parents face during ART, with the belief that this understanding will improve the care that pediatricians subsequently provide.
Structural aspects of CEACAM1 interactions
Authors: Gandhi Amit K. , Huang Yu‐Hwa , Sun Zhen‐Yu J. , Kim Walter M. , Kondo Yasuyuki , Hanley Thomas , Beauchemin Nicole , Blumberg Richard S.
Published: November 2024

Carcinoembryonic antigen‐related cell adhesion molecule 1 (CEACAM1) is a membrane protein that plays an important role in a variety of immune and non‐immune functions. Such functions are regulated by its activity as a homophilic ligand but also through its ability to interact as a heterophilic ligand with various host proteins. These include CEACAM5, T cell immunoglobulin‐mucin like protein‐3 (TIM‐3) and, potentially, protein death protein 1 (PD‐1). Furthermore, CEACAM1 is targeted by various pathogens to allow them to invade a host and bypass an effective immune response. Clinically, CEACAM1 plays an important role in infectious diseases, autoimmunity and cancer. In this review, we describe the structural basis for CEACAM1 interactions as a homophilic and heterophilic ligand. We discuss the regulation of its monomeric, dimeric and oligomeric states in cis and trans binding as well as the consequences for eliciting downstream signalling activities. Furthermore, we explore the potential role of avidity in determining CEACAM1's activities.
Machine learning for stroke in heart failure with reduced ejection fraction but without atrial fibrillation: A post‐hoc analysis of the WARCEF trial
Authors: Ishiguchi Hironori , Chen Yang , Huang Bi , Gue Ying , Correa Elon , Homma Shunichi , Thompson John L. P. , Qian Min , Lip Gregory Y. H. , Abdul‐Rahim Azmil H.
Published: November 2024

Background

The prediction of ischaemic stroke in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF) but without atrial fibrillation (AF) remains challenging. Our aim was to evaluate the performance of machine learning (ML) in identifying the development of ischaemic stroke in this population.

Methods

We performed a post‐hoc analysis of the WARCEF trial, only including patients without a history of AF. We evaluated the performance of 9 ML models for identifying incident stroke using metrics including area under the curve (AUC) and decision curve analysis. The importance of each feature used in the model was ranked by SAPley Additive exPlanations (SHAP) values.

Results

We included 2213 patients with HFrEF but without AF (mean age 58 ± 11 years; 80% male). Of these, 74 (3.3%) had an ischaemic stroke in sinus rhythm during a mean follow‐up of 3.3 ± 1.8 years. Out of the 29 patient‐demographics variables, 12 were selected for the ML training. Almost all ML models demonstrated high AUC values, outperforming the CHA2DS2‐VASc score (AUC: 0.643, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.512–0.767). The Support Vector Machine (SVM) and XGBoost models achieved the highest AUCs, with 0.874 (95% CI: 0.769–0.959) and 0.873 (95% CI: 0.783–0.953), respectively. The SVM and LightGBM consistently provided significant net clinical benefits. Key features consistently identified across these models were creatinine clearance (CrCl), blood urea nitrogen (BUN) and warfarin use.

Conclusions

Machine‐learning models can be useful in identifying incident ischaemic strokes in patients with HFrEF but without AF. CrCl, BUN and warfarin use were the key features.
Trialling floral‐baited traps to survey flower‐visiting insects in tropical crops: Findings from an oil palm case study
Authors: Popkin Megan , Harianja Martina F. , Luke Sarah H. , Setyawan Yendra P. , Naim Mohammad , Caliman Jean‐Pierre , Turner Edgar C.
Published: November 2024

Monitoring pollinating arthropods in crop systems can provide important information about pollinator populations and potential yield but can be hampered by accessibility to flowers in some systems, or by the timing of flowering and pollinator visits. This is particularly the case in oil palm, the world's leading source of vegetable oil, where flowering is discontinuous, inflorescences are sometimes many metres off the ground, and pollination is largely dependent on a single insect species—the specialist weevil, Elaeidobius kamerunicus Faust (Coleoptera: Curculionidae). We used oil palm as a case study system to trial a new trap design to selectively survey flower‐visitors of insect‐pollinated crops. The trap consisted of a pan trap baited with half a male oil palm inflorescence. To assess effectiveness of the trap across different environments, we set pairs of baited and non‐baited control pan traps in a variety of habitats in industrial oil palm plantations in Riau, Indonesia. We identified all arthropods collected to order level, with ants separated from other Hymenoptera owing to their distinct ecology, and E. kamerunicus identified to species level. We found a higher abundance of arthropods trapped by baited versus unbaited traps across all habitat types and across all taxa except Orthoptera, with the greatest differences found in E. kamerunicus, non‐E. kamerunicus Coleoptera, Diptera and Lepidoptera. The age of inflorescences used in baited traps affected abundances of certain taxa, with 8% reduction in E. kamerunicus abundance, 1% reduction in other Coleoptera and 4% reduction in Lepidoptera with each 1% increase in inflorescence openness beyond 40% open. Most taxa were found in higher numbers in the baited traps. The baited pan traps worked across a range of habitats and present an effective and inexpensive survey method for assessing populations of flower‐visiting arthropods and could collect a wider range of flower‐visitors than traps baited with more specific attractants, such as estragole, a volatile component emitted by oil palm inflorescences. Similar approaches could be trialled in other insect‐pollinated crops.
Weight discrimination ability during an action observation task is dependent on the type of muscle contraction
Authors: Albergoni Andrea , Paizis Christos , Papaxanthis Charalambos , Biggio Monica , Bove Marco , Bisio Ambra
Published: November 2024

Concentric and eccentric contractions show different patterns of neural activity at both peripheral and cortical levels, which are thought to influence the perception of action properties such as the weight of objects moved by others. The aim of this study was to investigate how the type of muscle contraction influences weight estimation during action observation.

Forty‐eight volunteers completed the Main experiment and the Control experiment. In the Main experiment, they performed a weight discrimination video task in which they watched videos of an actor moving two objects, a comparison, and a reference box, executing concentric or eccentric contractions and they had to indicate which box was the heaviest. Sensitivity analysis and psychometric functions were used to analyse the data. In the Control experiment, observers judged the actor's effort in moving the boxes.

The results of the Main experiment showed that the weight discrimination sensitivity was higher in the eccentric condition for the light boxes. Conversely, for the heaviest boxes, discrimination sensitivity was higher in the concentric condition. These results were confirmed by the psychometric function analysis. The control experiment showed that the perceived difference in effort between the comparison and reference stimuli was greater in the eccentric than in the concentric condition for light stimuli.

These results showed that the ability to evaluate the weight of the object involved in the observed action was influenced by the type of contraction and the amount of weight. The effort attributed to the actor influenced the observer's perception.
Friendship as a lifeline: Navigating the precarious landscape of the US employment‐based immigration as women of color psychologists
Authors: Daruwalla Shaznin , Ley Shirley
Published: November 2024

Drawing inspiration from the reflective and liberating practice of testimonio, we narrated our experiences as two women of color precariously employed psychologists with US employment visas. Shirley Ley recounted an experience of lost identity as a psychologist at a small liberal arts institution while Shaznin Daruwalla wove a narrative of tested endurance in her role as a staff psychologist in a medium‐sized state‐funded academic institution. Despite our diverse origins—Canada and India respectively—we shared the intricate link between our immigration status and employment. This connection tethered us to our professional roles and the organizations supporting our employment‐based immigrant visas. Unlike US permanent residents or citizens, our difficulty in switching employers freely left us profoundly vulnerable. The gravity of employment termination was overwhelming, tantamount to relinquishing our rights to reside and work in the United States, affording us only a brief 60‐day window to secure new sponsorship. Guided by our unwavering anti‐oppressive ethos, we confronted institutional barriers head‐on, a stance that often placed us in precarious situations. Our assertive challenges to the system not only risked termination of our jobs but also carried the threat of displacement, a persistent reality in our consciousness. Amid the backdrop of COVID‐19's employment uncertainties, our friendship emerged as a steadfast anchor, offering the safety and stability we needed to persevere. Through this paper, we sought to demonstrate how supportive relationships and shared experiences among women of color can be a powerful tool for resilience, personal growth, and professional empowerment in the face of systemic challenges.
Recent advances in solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance studies on membrane fusion proteins
Authors: Zheng Lifen , Wang Shenlin
Published: November 2024

Membrane fusion is an essential biological process that merges two separate lipid bilayers into a whole one. Membrane fusion proteins facilitate this process by bringing lipid bilayers in close proximity to reduce the repulsive energy between membranes. Along with their interactions with membranes, the structures and dynamics of membrane fusion proteins are key to elucidating the mechanisms of membrane fusion. Solid‐state NMR (SSNMR) spectroscopy has unique advantages in determining the structures and dynamics of membrane fusion proteins in their membrane‐bound states. It has been extensively applied to reveal conformational changes in intermediate states of viral membrane fusion proteins and to characterize the critical lipid–membrane interactions that drive the fusion process. In this review, we summarize recent advancements in SSNMR techniques for studying membrane fusion proteins and their applications in elucidating the mechanisms of membrane fusion.
An Implicit Fillet‐Weld Element Formulation for Mesh‐Insensitive Fatigue Evaluation of Complex Structures
Authors: Zhang Lunyu , Wu Shengjia , Dong Pingsha
Published: November 2024

In fatigue evaluation of welded structures, explicit weld representations in finite element (FE) models are needed for reliably capturing stress or strain concentration behaviors at critical weld locations, for example, weld toe or weld root, in using widely accepted traction structural stress or extrapolation hot‐spot stress methods. The laborious efforts needed for generating weld geometry have been a major challenge for fatigue evaluation of complex structures containing many welds. In this paper, we present a user‐defined fillet‐weld element formulation and its numerical implementation for computing traction mesh‐insensitive structural stresses. The fillet‐weld element is formulated by connecting several linear four‐nodes Mindlin shell elements around weld region as a user‐defined element. The resulting elements can be directly used with major commercial FE codes through an available user subroutine interface. A number of well‐documented fillet‐welded components are then used for validating the accuracy and robustness of the developed fillet‐weld elements.
Does Transfer Pathway Uptake Help or Hinder Access to STEM Fields in Postsecondary Education? A View From Canada
Authors: Zarifa David , Sano Yujiro , Pizarro Milian Roger
Published: November 2024

Considerable scholarly attention has been devoted to how gender, race and various other demographic factors shape the odds of majoring in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs. Such work has identified sizable disparities in access to STEM fields across various dimensions. In turn, these empirical findings have informed productive discussions about the social and institutional mechanisms that prevent marginalised groups from entering STEM, along with the potential strategies that could be used at multiple levels (e.g., government and institutional) to address them. Despite the increasing size of this literature, little energy has been devoted to examining the extent to which uptake of transfer pathways is associated with the odds of eventually majoring in a STEM field. Does transfer divert students away from STEM fields? Does it primarily function as an ‘on‐ramp’ for students from other disciplines to enter STEM? We find that students who travel transfer pathways into the university sector are less likely to major in STEM, but those that travel transfer pathways into the community college sector are more likely to major in STEM. We identify some of the mechanisms that could be contributing to these trends and highlight some prospective strategies for addressing the potential structural barriers faced by students wishing to enter STEM.
Consumer Involvement in the Design and Development of Medication Safety Interventions or Services in Primary Care: A Scoping Review
Authors: DelDot Megan , Lau Esther , Rayner Nicole , Spinks Jean , Kelly Fiona , Nissen Lisa
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Medication‐related problems remain a significant burden despite the availability of various interventions and services in primary care. Involving health care consumers to design interventions or services across health disciplines is becoming more widely used as this type of engagement reportedly leads to more accessible, acceptable and sustainable health services and quality of life. We conducted a scoping review to examine when and how consumers have been involved in the design and development of medication safety interventions or services within the primary care.

Methods

We searched five key databases (MEDLINE (EBSCOhost), CINAHL (EBSCOhost), PsycINFO (EBSCOhost), Embase (Elsevier) and Cochrane Library (Wiley)) for relevant articles published up to February 2024. Studies were included if they involved adult consumers (≥ 18 years), their families, carers or the wider community as stakeholders. This review only included studies where the aim was to improve safe and effective medication use, delivered exclusively in primary care. To examine consumer involvement approaches and methods we adapted a framework describing the stages of consumer involvement for the data extraction tool.

Results

Overall, 15 studies were included (comprising 24 articles). Codesign, experience‐based codesign, coproduction and participatory action research were commonly used approaches. Meetings, interviews, surveys/questionnaires were commonly used methods. Two studies reported consumer involvement across all stages of the research study, and only one study described the consumer experience of being involved in the research process. The impact of consumer involvement on the effectiveness of these services or interventions was mixed.

Conclusion

The potential benefits of consumer involvement in the design and development of medication safety interventions or services may not have been fully maximised, given that genuine consumer involvement across all stages of the research study appears uncommon. More transparent and consistent reporting around the description of consumers involved, their experience of being involved and overall impact and quality of consumer participation is needed.

Patient or Public Contribution

This scoping review was undertaken without consumers, patients, service users, caregivers or people with lived experience or members of the public due to resource limitations. This scoping review was undertaken and written by academics, who have undertaken codesign with consumers and stakeholders and also have personal lived experience of medication‐related problems.
Association between total, regional and organ fat and type 2 diabetes risk factors among Latino youth: A longitudinal study
Authors: Owolabi Eyitayo O. , Olson Micah L. , Hu Houchun H. , Peña Armando , Pimentel Janiel L. , Pituch Keenan A. , Bailey Smita S. , Shaibi Gabriel Q.
Published: November 2024

Introduction

To examine whether within‐person changes in total, regional and organ fat were associated with within‐person changes in type 2 diabetes (T2D)‐related biomarkers following interventions.

Methods

A secondary analysis from a randomised trial among Latino youth (30 males, 25 females) aged 12–16 years with obesity. The study sample combined participants randomised to either lifestyle intervention (N = 39) or usual care (N = 16). Total body composition was assessed by DEXA. Hepatic and pancreatic fat fractions were assessed using MRI. T2D risk factors included insulin sensitivity, beta‐cell function and post‐challenge glucose.

Results

Significant changes in %body fat, lean mass, insulin sensitivity and 2‐h glucose were observed. Changes in fat mass were associated with changes in insulin sensitivity (β = −0.45, p < 0.001), while changes in lean mass were associated with changes in 2‐h glucose concentrations (β = −0.50, p = 0.02). No association between changes in total, regional, or organ fat and beta cell function were noted.

Conclusions

Our study revealed that within‐person changes in fat mass and lean mass were associated with increased insulin sensitivity and reduced 2‐h glucose concentrations, respectively, among high‐risk Latino youth. The impact of reductions in regional and organ fat deposition on T2D risk factors warrants further examination.
Prenatal Skin Cell Atlas reveals macrophages’ role beyond immunity
Authors: Pattaroni Céline
Published: November 2024

In this article, we discuss a recently published study by Gopee et al., who have unveiled a surprising role for macrophages in human prenatal skin development, extending far beyond their traditional immune function. By constructing a comprehensive multi‐omics single‐cell atlas of human prenatal skin, they demonstrate that innate immune cells play a key role in hair follicle formation, scarless wound healing and neurovascular development.
Infants' Preference for ID Speech in Face and Voice Extends to a Non‐Native Language
Authors: Birulés Joan , Méary David , Fort Mathilde , Hojin Kim , Johnson Scott P. , Pascalis Olivier
Published: November 2024

Infants prefer infant‐directed (ID) speech. Concerning talking faces, previous research showed that 3‐ and 5‐month‐olds prefer faces that produce native ID than native adult‐directed (AD) speech, regardless of background speech being ID, AD or silent. Here, we explored whether infants also show a preference for non‐native ID speech. We presented 3‐ and 6‐month‐old infants with pairs of talking faces, one producing non‐native ID speech and the other non‐native AD speech, either in silence (Experiment 1) or accompanied by non‐native ID or AD background speech (Experiment 2). Results from Experiment 1 showed an overall preference for the silent ID talking faces across both age groups, suggesting a reliance on cross‐linguistic, potentially universal cues for this preference. However, Experiment 2 showed that preference for ID faces was disrupted at 3 months when auditory speech was present (ID or AD). At 6 months, infants maintained a preference for ID talking faces, but only when accompanied by ID speech. These findings show that auditory non‐native speech interferes with infants' processing of ID talking faces. They also suggest that by 6 months, infants start associating ID features from faces and voices irrespective of language familiarity, suggesting that infants' ID preference may be universal and amodal.