bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of residual skin lesions and previous biologic treatment failure on patient‐reported outcomes in patients with psoriasis receiving biologic treatment
Authors: Song Won Ji , Yoon Hyun‐Sun
Published: April 2024

Recent advances in biologic treatments have made clear skin a realistic treatment goal for psoriasis. However, clear skin may not uniformly translate to an absence of impact on patients' quality of life. This retrospective observational study aimed to elucidate the factors influencing patient‐reported outcomes in patients with psoriasis who have demonstrated successful clinician‐reported outcomes on using biologics. A total of 96 patients who have achieved a ≥75% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index (PASI) scores with ≥6 months of biologic treatment were included. Their median PASI score was 0.4, with 37.5% having achieved PASI 100 (clear skin). Furthermore, 47.9% reported no impact of psoriasis on their quality of life (Dermatology Life Quality Index [DLQI] score 0 or 1), while 52.1% reported a negative impact (DLQI score ≥2). Notably, 28.1% of the participants had a history of biologic treatment failure, defined as the inability to achieve or sustain a 75% PASI improvement with the previously used biologic agent. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed a positive association between achieving PASI 100 and reporting no impact of psoriasis on quality of life (adjusted odds ratio [aOR] 3.88, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.49–10.91, P = 0.007). Conversely, prior biologic treatment failure was negatively associated with reporting no impact of psoriasis on quality of life (aOR 0.13, 95% CI 0.02–0.65, P = 0.023). Furthermore, among patients with clear skin, those with experience of previous biologic treatment failure reported significantly lower quality of life than those without such experience (P = 0.033). In conclusion, minimal residual skin lesions and prior biologic treatment failure were associated with poorer patient‐reported outcomes in patients with psoriasis. Opting for a biologic agent with the highest predicted efficacy, rather than pursuing a “step‐up” approach with a higher possibility of treatment failure, may be a more suitable strategy in the biologic treatment of psoriasis.
Heathland management affects soil response to drought
Authors: Gliesch Mariana , Sanchez Leonardo Hinojosa , Jongepier Evelien , Martin Celia , Hu Yahan , Tietema Albert , de Vries Franciska T.
Published: April 2024

Drought can affect ecosystem functioning by altering plant–soil interactions, posing a significant threat to vulnerable ecosystems like heathlands. In heathlands, ongoing nitrogen deposition increases the dominance of fast‐growing grasses over the slow‐growing shrub Calluna vulgaris. These changes above‐ground can influence soil dynamics and heathlands' responses to drought. Here, we assessed whether the legacy effects of drought on heathland soils depended on mowing times as a management practice commonly used to regenerate Calluna and decrease the abundance of fast‐growing grasses.

Using a long‐term field experiment, we investigated if soil response to drought differed under Calluna and grasses, as well as under Calluna plants of different growth stages through different mowing times. We hypothesized that drought would decrease soil C and nutrient pools underneath grasses and younger Calluna plants through its impact on soil microbial communities.

Our results show that long‐term drought decreased soil C but only underneath grasses and old Calluna, while under young Calluna, soil C increased under drought when compared to control conditions. Bacterial and fungal community composition differed between drought and control and were affected by the growth stage of Calluna but not by plant growth strategies. Furthermore, drought and Calluna growth stage‐induced changes in bacterial communities directly affected total soil C and indirectly by reducing microbial C, which was positively related to total soil C.

Synthesis and applications. Understanding ecosystem response to drought is crucial for maintaining biodiversity and mitigating climate change feedbacks. Heathlands are threatened by high nitrogen deposition, a lack of management and an increasing frequency of drought. Our results emphasize the importance of frequent mowing (decadal) as a management practice that promotes a younger and more Calluna‐dominated plant community for reducing soil C losses under future climate change‐induced drought conditions. The active management of heathlands is essential not only for keeping above‐ground vegetation dynamics, but also for maintaining below‐ground soil nutrient and carbon pools.
Urban industrial land misallocation and green total factor productivity: Evidence from China's Yellow River Basin regions
Authors: Nie Lei , Ren Zhenzhen , Wu Yanrui , Luo Qizhou
Published: April 2024

This study aims to investigate the repercussions of urban industrial land misallocation on green total factor productivity (GTFP) within the context of China's Yellow River Basin regions. Utilising data from 99 prefecture‐level cities over the period from 2007 to 2020, the analysis reveals that the misallocation of urban industrial land exhibits regional variations and exerts a significant and persistent negative influence on GTFP, with notable regional disparities. Further analysis shows the mechanism of this effect is the obstacle to urban innovation due to industrial land misallocation. In addition, education expenditure plays a moderating role both directly and indirectly. These findings imply the need to continuously improve the performance evaluation and financial system of local governments, reduce government intervention, and make use of the market mechanism in the allocation of urban industrial land.
Exploring the distribution and cognitive profiles of poor readers across varying levels of reading difficulty: implications for identification and support
Authors: Sleeman Mike , Everatt John , Arrow Alison , Denston Amanda
Published: April 2024

Background

This study explored the impact of different cut‐off points used to identify children with reading difficulties on the distribution of these children across the three poor reader groups predicted by the simple view of reading (dyslexia, specific comprehension difficulty and mixed difficulty). Additionally, the study investigated whether the cognitive profiles of these poor reader groups remained consistent across varying levels of reading impairment.

Methods

This study included 209 primary school children from New Zealand, in Years 4–6 and aged 8–10 years, who experienced reading comprehension difficulties. Using a two‐step cluster analysis, participants were assigned to one of three poor reader groups: dyslexia, specific comprehension difficulty (SCD) and mixed difficulty. We examined the distribution of children across these groups at eight levels of reading comprehension difficulty and conducted strengths and weaknesses profiles at four levels of reading ability across 14 tests that assessed a range of reading‐related skills. Additionally, we compared the performance of children in these groups who performed above and below the 10th percentile on a reading comprehension assessment across these tests.

Results

The results showed that the proportion of children assigned to each group varied across the reading levels, with children at the lower end of the reading comprehension continuum more likely to exhibit the mixed difficulty profile than the SCD and dyslexia profiles. Overall, the research found that dyslexia, SCD and mixed difficulty profiles could be identified at all levels of reading comprehension difficulty, though weaknesses in their reading‐related skills increased as reading comprehension difficulties also increased.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that struggling readers demonstrate distinct cognitive profiles across all levels of reading ability. These results have important implications for identifying and supporting struggling readers, as well as enhancing our understanding of the underlying mechanisms of reading difficulties. The possible relationship between the results obtained in this study and tiered models of reading support is discussed.
Treatment methods for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia in England: A cost‐effectiveness analysis
Authors: Tinelli Michela , Athanasiou Antonios , Veroniki Areti Angeliki , Efthimiou Orestis , Kalliala Ilkka , Bowden Sarah , Paraskevaidi Maria , Lyons Deirdre , Martin‐Hirsch Pierre , Bennett Phillip , Paraskevaidis Evangelos , Salanti Georgia , Kyrgiou Maria , Naci Huseyin
Published: April 2024

Objective

To compare the cost‐effectiveness of different treatments for cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN).

Design

A cost‐effectiveness analysis based on data available in the literature and expert opinion.

Setting

England.

Population

Women treated for CIN.

Methods

We developed a decision‐analytic model to simulate the clinical course of 1000 women who received local treatment for CIN and were followed up for 10 years after treatment. In the model we considered surgical complications as well as oncological and reproductive outcomes over the 10‐year period. The costs calculated were those incurred by the National Health Service (NHS) of England.

Main outcome measures

Cost per one CIN2+ recurrence averted (oncological outcome); cost per one preterm birth averted (reproductive outcome); overall cost per one adverse oncological or reproductive outcome averted.

Results

For young women of reproductive age, large loop excision of the transformation zone (LLETZ) was the most cost‐effective treatment overall at all willingness‐to‐pay thresholds. For postmenopausal women, LLETZ remained the most cost‐effective treatment up to a threshold of £31,500, but laser conisation became the most cost‐effective treatment above that threshold.

Conclusions

LLETZ is the most cost‐effective treatment for both younger and older women. However, for older women, more radical excision with laser conisation could also be considered if the NHS is willing to spend more than £31,500 to avert one CIN2+ recurrence.
Urine high‐risk human papillomavirus testing as an alternative to routine cervical screening: A comparative diagnostic accuracy study of two urine collection devices using a randomised study design trial
Authors: Davies Jennifer C. , Sargent Alexandra , Pinggera Elisabeth , Carter Suzanne , Gilham Clare , Sasieni Peter , Crosbie Emma J.
Published: April 2024

Objective

To evaluate the sensitivity of human papillomavirus (HPV) tested urine to detect high‐grade cervical precancer (cervical intraepithelial neoplasia grade 2+ [CIN2+]) using two urine collection devices.

Design

Randomised controlled trial.

Setting

St Mary's Hospital, Manchester, UK.

Population

Colposcopy attendees with abnormal cervical screening; a total of 480 participants were randomised. Matched urine and cervical samples were available for 235 and 230 participants using a first‐void urine (FVU)‐collection device and standard pot, respectively.

Methods

Urine was self‐collected and mixed with preservative – randomised 1:1 to FVU‐collection device (Novosanis Colli‐pee® 10 mL with urine conservation medium [UCM]) or standard pot. Matched clinician‐collected cervical samples were taken before colposcopy. HPV testing used Roche cobas® 8800. A questionnaire evaluated urine self‐sampling acceptability.

Main outcome measures

The primary outcome measured sensitivity of HPV‐tested urine (FVU‐collection device and standard pot) for CIN2+ detection. Secondary outcomes compared HPV‐tested cervical and urine samples for CIN2+ and evaluated the acceptability of urine self‐sampling.

Results

Urine HPV test sensitivity for CIN2+ was higher with the FVU‐collection device (90.3%, 95% CI 83.7%–94.9%, 112/124) than the standard pot (73.4%, 95% CI 64.7%–80.9%, 91/124, p = 0.0005). The relative sensitivity of FVU‐device‐collected urine was 0.92 (95% CI 0.87–0.97, pMcN = 0.004) compared with cervical, considering that all women were referred after a positive cervical HPV test. Urine‐based sampling was acceptable to colposcopy attendees.

Conclusions

Testing of FVU‐device‐collected urine for HPV was superior to standard‐pot‐collected urine in colposcopy attendees and has promising sensitivity for CIN2+ detection. General population HPV testing of FVU‐device‐collected urine will establish its clinical performance and acceptability as an alternative to routine cervical screening.
Antivenom surveillance: An audit of antivenom stock within South Australia
Authors: Stibbs David , Jennar Kate , Alfred Sam , White Julian
Published: April 2024

Objectives

Antivenoms are important emergency medications to be held within Australia, particularly in regional and remote locations. We audited current antivenom holdings in hospitals and health services across South Australia (SA) and compared to recommendations in the ‘Snakebite and Spiderbite Management Guidelines’ from the State's Toxinology service. The process also assessed the feasibility of ‘real‐time’ remote stock monitoring.

Methods

Fifty‐three sites listed in the guideline were recommended to hold antivenom, though only 49 are currently operational. Interrogation of antivenom stock for 29 sites was possible using electronic reports generated from the State Pharmacy database. The 20 remaining centres had their stock levels confirmed by calling the centres directly. Data obtained were then compared to recommended levels of antivenom holdings in the guideline with discrepancies and associated costs documented. A separate report verification process was used to determine ‘real‐time’ accuracy of the electronic reports.

Results

Thirty‐seven sites (75%) held more than the recommended number of antivenom vials, totalling 129 vials in excess with an approximate total cost of $110 000. Twelve sites (24%) held inadequate stock to deliver a treatment dose for 19 envenoming events. The report verification revealed variances in the electronic reports.

Conclusions

This audit has demonstrated a significant disparity between recommended and actual antivenom holdings across most sites in SA and has also revealed that ‘real‐time’ remote monitoring of state antivenom holdings is not currently feasible. Correction of stock levels to that recommended may result in financial benefit for State Health while also addressing inequity in regional and remote healthcare provision.
Delayed post‐dialysis recovery times are associated with relative changes in intracellular and extracellular fluid ratios between different body compartments
Authors: Yoowannakul Suree , Vongsanim Surachet , Tangvoraphonkchai Kamonwan , Davenport Andrew
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Hemodialysis patient groups have advocated reducing dialysis fatigue and symptoms. We investigated whether compartmental fluid shifts were associated with peri‐dialytic fatigue and symptoms.

Methods

Sessional dialysis records of patients reporting both a short and delayed recovery (<1 h and ≥1 h) with corresponding bioimpedance measurements were reviewed.

Results

One hundred and twenty‐four patients reported both short and delayed recovery times, mean age 66.0 ± 14.8 years, 66.1% male. Differences between sessions included higher distress thermometer [4 (1–6) vs. 3 (0–5)], fatigue [4 (0–9) vs. 2 (0–7)], total symptom scores [20.5 (12.3–34.5) vs. 16 (7–28)], change in extracellular water to total body water ratios between body compartments [right leg/left arm 2.36 (1.23–4.19) vs. 1.28 (0.12–2.01), all p < 0.01] with delayed recovery, and more hemodialysis than hemodiafiltration sessions (χ2 4.6, p = 0.02).

Conclusion

Sessions with prolonged recovery times were associated with more peri‐dialytic symptoms, psychological distress, and hemodialysis mode, and greater changes in compartmental fluid shifts.
Study on the formation mechanism of blackening in damaged lotus rhizome epidermis: Effects of polyphenols and iron
Authors: Chen Xianqiang , Huang Shengkai , Yan Shoulei , Li Jie
Published: April 2024

Lotus rhizome is an important aquatic vegetable, but the blackening of lotus rhizome epidermis (LRE) seriously affects its appearance and quality, which makes lotus rhizome products unmarketable. In this study, the effects of polyphenols and iron on the LRE color were studied to explore the possible mechanism of LRE blackening. Results indicated that the measurable total phenols contents in the mud treatment (MT) group were significantly reduced, and the total iron contents were significantly increased compared with the bruised treatment group (p < 0.05). The high‐performance liquid chromatography results showed that the main polyphenols in LRE were dopa, gallocatechin, and catechin, as well as a small amount of catechol, epicatechin, proanthocyanidin B2, and proanthocyanidin C1. Moreover, the results of color difference and ultraviolet adsorption spectroscopy showed that there were obviously black or brown‐gray of dopa (525 nm), gallocatechin (504.5 nm), and catechin (550 and 504.5 nm) with FeCl2. The simulated system treatment of LRE further confirmed that the chromaticity effect of dopa and iron in bruised LRE was similar to that of the MT group, whereas 1% (w/w) ascorbic acid, 2% (w/w) EDTA‐2Na, or 3% (w/w) citric acid could solely prohibit the blackening. This suggested that the dopa in LRE and FeCl2 in mud may mainly combine into [2(DOPA‐2H+)+Fe3+]− through non‐covalent interaction, which leads to the blackening of bruised LRE under neutral conditions. These results can guide the storage of lotus rhizomes and improve the development of the lotus rhizome industry.
“What matters to you” on the day of surgery: Protocol for a mixed methods study
Authors: Gamst‐Jensen H. , Villumsen B. R. , Nielsen A. H. , Egerod I. , Brix L. D.
Published: April 2024

Background

The anticipation of anesthesia and surgery is the source of fear and anxiety in millions of patients worldwide. Although patients' fear and anxiety are recognized, more knowledge is needed to address patient responses and needs. Understanding the needs of the patients are important, and asking patients directly is the first step towards addressing these needs. This again might help reducing medications such as anesthetics and postoperative pain relief. The aim of this study protocol is to describe how we will investigate what matters to patients on the day of surgery, as well as their degree‐of‐worry and surgical fear.

Methods

Using a convergent mixed methods design with equal weighting of the qualitative and quantitative data strand we take advantage of the international “What Matters To You” Day on June 6, 2024 to conduct a flash mob study. We will approach perioperative departments around Denmark to participate and eligible patients arriving to the perioperative department for surgery will be invited to participate. Consenting patients are asked to complete a survey in three parts regarding (1) what matters to you, (2) degree‐of‐worry, and (3) surgical fear. We will use qualitative analysis for the first part and descriptive statistics for second and third parts. The data strands will be analyzed separately followed by integrated analysis and joint displays.
Lack of mitochondrial introgression and limited genetic connectivity among Manyara tilapia (Oreochromis amphimelas) populations in Tanzanian Saline Rift Valley Lakes
Authors: Morandus Bonus M. , Rumisha Cyrus
Published: April 2024

The Manyara tilapia (Oreochromis amphimelas), native to the Saline Rift Valley Lakes (SRVLs) in north‐central Tanzania, has recently experienced population declines mainly due to overfishing and severe droughts. This, combined with the introduction of Nile tilapia (O. niloticus), which poses a risk of hybridisation, could potentially erode essential genetic traits necessary for their survival. To address these concerns, our study analysed partial cytochrome oxidase subunit I sequences (627 base pairs) from 139 Manyara tilapia and 79 Nile tilapia specimens collected from the SRVLs to test two hypotheses: (i) whether there is no transfer of mitochondrial DNA between these species, and (ii) whether Manyara tilapia populations in the SRVLs have remained genetically connected despite reported declines. The results revealed six distinct haplotypes for Manyara tilapia and three for Nile tilapia. These haplotypes formed separate clusters for each species, with no shared or closely related haplotypes, indicating limited or no transfer of mitochondrial DNA between them. Additionally, we found evidence of restricted genetic connectivity among Manyara tilapia populations in the SRVLs, with populations in Lakes Manyara and Eyasi displaying limited genetic exchange among themselves and with those in other SRVLs. Our findings highlight the importance of sustained conservation efforts in protected areas around Lake Manyara and Lake Eyasi to safeguard the unique populations of Manyara tilapia in these lakes. However, limited connectivity with other SRVLs suggests that conservation initiatives in these areas may have a limited impact on these lakes. Thus, future efforts should prioritise stocks in Lakes Kindai, Singida and Sulunga, focusing on protecting fish refugia, particularly the rivers connected to these lakes, which serve as critical habitats during the dry season and as important reservoirs for replenishing these populations.
Ambient pollen exposure and pollen allergy symptom severity in the EPOCHAL study
Authors: Luyten Axel , Bürgler Alexandra , Glick Sarah , Kwiatkowski Marek , Gehrig Regula , Beigi Minaya , Hartmann Karin , Eeftens Marloes
Published: April 2024

Background

Ambient pollen exposure causes nasal, ocular, and pulmonary symptoms in allergic individuals, but the shape of the exposure–response association is not well characterized. We evaluated this association and determined (1) whether symptom severity differs between subpopulations; (2) how the association changes over the course of the pollen season; and (3) which pollen exposure time lags affect symptoms.

Methods

Adult study participants (n = 396) repeatedly scored severity of nasal, ocular, and pulmonary allergic symptoms, resulting in three composite symptom scores. We calculated hourly individually relevant pollen exposure to seven allergenic plants (alder, ash, birch, hazel, grasses, mugwort, and ragweed) considering personal sensitization and exposure time lags of up to 96 h. We fitted generalized additive mixed models, with a random personal intercept, adjusting for weather and air pollution as potential time‐varying confounders.

Results

We identified a clear nonlinear positive association between pollen exposure and ocular and nasal symptom severity in the pollen allergy group: Symptom severity increased steeply with increasing exposure initially, but attenuated beyond approximately 80 pollen/m3. We found no evidence of an exposure threshold, below which no symptoms occur. While recent pollen exposure in the last approximately 5 h affected symptoms most, associations lingered for up to 60 h. Grass pollen exposure (compared to tree pollen) and younger age (18–30 years, as opposed to 30–65 years) were both associated with higher nasal and ocular symptom severity.

Conclusions

The lack of a threshold and attenuated dose–response curve may have implications for pollen warning systems, which may be revised to include multiday pollen concentrations in the future.
Temporal trends in paediatric hydrocephalus – Rising prematurity and persistent ophthalmological challenges
Authors: Wrede Alexandra U. C. , Mastrouk Farah , Björkander Nina R. , Andersson Susann , Andersson Grönlund Marita C.
Published: April 2024

Aim

To study changes in aetiology, prematurity, comorbidity and ophthalmological outcomes in children with surgically treated hydrocephalus to provide information needed to maintain the best possible healthcare for a fragile and changing population.

Methods

Two population‐based cohorts, born two decades apart in Region Västra Götaland Sweden, surgically treated for hydrocephalus at Sahlgrenska University Hospital in Gothenburg were recruited at approximately 10 years of age. The participants were examined according to an ophthalmological protocol, including history taking regarding perceptual visual dysfunction (PVD). Gestational age, aetiology and comorbidities were registered.

Results

The 1989–1993 group, comprised 52 children (48% girls; mean age 10, range 7.7–12.8 years), was compared with 24 children, born in 2007–2012 (29% girls; mean age 10, range 7.0–13.8 years). Extreme prematurity (gestational age ≤ 28 weeks) increased over time (p = 0.001). The vast majority of the children showed ophthalmological abnormalities, although motility defects and nystagmus decreased in the latter population. Subnormal visual acuity was associated with extreme prematurity (RR = 4.69; p = 0.030), and PVD with learning disability (RR = 2.44; p = 0.032).

Conclusion

Paediatric hydrocephalus populations may change with improved healthcare. Since a high percentage shows ophthalmological abnormalities and more children are born extremely preterm, the entirety needs consideration both neurologically and ophthalmologically.
Development of a reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification assay with novel quantitative pH biosensor readout method for SARS‐CoV‐2 detection
Authors: Astari Dian Ekayanti , Massi Muhammad Nasrum , Masadah Rina , Hardjo Marhaen , Natzir Rosdiana , Erlichster Michael , Chana Gursharan , Skafidas Efstratios , Seraj Zeba Islam , Elias Sabrina M. , Soraya Gita Vita
Published: April 2024

Reverse transcription loop‐mediated isothermal amplification (RT‐LAMP) is a molecular amplification method that can detect SARS‐CoV‐2 in a shorter time than the current gold‐standard molecular diagnostic reverse transcription‐polymerase chain reaction (RT‐PCR). However, previously developed RT‐LAMP assays have mostly relied on highly subjective visual colorimetric interpretation. In this study, an RT‐LAMP assay was developed with quantitative measurement of reaction pH using a novel portable pH biosensor compared to qualitative colorimetric interpretation and gel electrophoresis, with 57 clinical COVID‐19 samples used for validation of the test. The LoD of the assay is 103 copies/μL. The highest sensitivity was found in the qualitative methods (93.75%), while the highest specificity and likelihood ratio was found in the pH sensor (87.5% and 6.72). On the sensor measurement, a significant difference (p < 0.0001) was observed between the average pH of the RT‐PCR (+) COVID‐19 (6.15 ± 0.27), while the average pH of the RT‐PCR (−) samples (6.72 ± 0.22). Correlation analysis revealed a strong correlation (r = 0.78, p < 0.0001) between the Ct values obtained from RT‐PCR with the biosensor pH readout. RT‐LAMP with the quantitative pH sensor readout method has the potential to be further developed as an objective molecular assay for rapid and simple detection of SARS‐CoV‐2.
Fluorescence‐guided surgery using cetuximab‐800CW in patients with penile carcinoma
Authors: Nijboer Thomas S. , van der Fels Christa A. M. , de Wit Jaron G. , Keizers Bas , Huizinga Henrik K. , Voskuil Floris J. , Voskamp Maarten J. H. , van den Heuvel Marius C. , Witjes Max J. H. , de Jong Igle Jan
Published: April 2024

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of fluorescence molecular imaging (FMI), using cetuximab‐800CW, as an intraoperative tool to determine surgical margins in penile squamous cell carcinoma (PSCC).

Patients and methods

A total of 11 patients with PSCC received 75 mg cetuximab followed by 15 mg cetuximab‐800CW 2 days before surgery. FMI of the whole excision specimen and tissue slices was performed. Fluorescence visualisation was correlated to histopathology. Based on tumour and healthy tissue regions of interest, mean fluorescence intensity was calculated for each individual patient.

Results

Significant differences between tumour and healthy mean fluorescence intensity were found with tumour‐to‐background ratios of a median (IQR) of 1.51 (0.99) and a mean (SD) of 1.51 (0.32) in the excision specimen and tissue slices, respectively. One patient showed a high relative fluorescence intensity with a signal‐to‐background ratio of 1.79, corresponding to a tumour‐positive margin on fresh frozen sectioning.

Conclusion

In this Phase I study we showed that cetuximab‐800CW seems suitable to discriminate PSCC from background tissue. The tracer was well tolerated, and no false positive spots were seen.
Variability of Social Inclusion Patterns Involving Personal, Family and Social Characteristics in Latino Migrant Families in Spain
Authors: Gutiérrez‐Rodríguez Nauzet , Álvarez Lorenzo Míriam , Rodrigo López María José
Published: April 2024

Migration entails important changes for families. Despite existing evidence on the process of adaptation, little is known about the degree of social inclusion in a context of high cultural affinity. We examine the variability of social inclusion patterns, indexed by personal, family and social conditions, in 263 Latin American families, with at least one child under 12 years, migrating to Spain. Three profiles of social inclusion were identified using cluster analysis: High inclusion (32%), characterized by a good financial and job situation, low perception of economic difficulty, good social support and medium scores in attraction to neighbourhood and community belonging and high scores in neighbourly relationship. Partial inclusion (35%) was characterized by ratings of extreme economic difficulties and lack of job, high scores in perceived economic hardship, high scores in all types of social support (instrumental, emotional and affectionate support and positive social interaction) and high scores in attraction to neighbourhood and community belonging, and medium scores in neighbourly relationship. Finally, Low inclusion cluster (33%) was characterized by moderate economic difficulties and lack of a job, high scores in perceived economic hardship, low scores in all types of social support and low neighbourhood cohesion in all the factors. Multinomial logistic regression analysis showed that a model comprising family composition, size of social networks and years of residence in the community increased the probability of belonging to the Partial or Low inclusion profiles compared with the High inclusion one. In conclusion, the heterogeneity in the patterns of social inclusion and their intersection with family conditions suggests the need for targeted intervention actions to reduce the risk of social exclusion.
Long‐term follow‐up for the atypical radial longitudinal deficiency: A case report
Authors: Satake Hiroshi , Takeuchi Ryuji , Naganuma Yasushi , Nito Toshiya , Hanaka Naomi , Shibuya Junichiro , Maruyama Masahiro , Honma Ryusuke , Takagi Michiaki
Published: April 2024

We experienced an atypical case of radial longitudinal deficiency that did not fit into any classifications, including Blauth. The patient had a bilateral hypoplastic thumb, in which the index and middle fingers were missing in the right hand. We performed surgeries in four stages: centralization of the right hand, opponensplasty of the right thumb, opponensplasty of the left thumb, and distraction lengthening of the right ulnar. Twenty‐five years after the initial treatment, the patient was satisfied with the treatment and had no significant difficulty with activities of daily living.
A standard lexicon of terms for area‐based conservation version 1.0
Authors: Salafsky Nick , Mejía Cortez Paola , de Meyer Kalli , Dudley Nigel , Klimmek Helen , Lewis Alanah , MacRae Duncan , Mitchell Brent A. , Redford Kent H. , Sharma Mitali
Published: April 2024

Target 3 in the Kunming–Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF) calls for protecting at least 30% of the world's lands and waters in area‐based conservation approaches by 2030. This ambitious 30×30 target has spurred great interest among policy makers, practitioners, and researchers in defining and measuring the effectiveness of these types of approaches. But along with this broad interest, there has also been a proliferation of terms and their accompanying abbreviations used to describe different types of conservation areas and their governance, planning, management, and monitoring. The lack of standard terms is hindering the use and assessment of area‐based approaches to conserve the world's biodiversity. It is difficult to track progress toward GBF Target 3 or to share learning with other practitioners if different groups of people are using different words to describe the same concept or similar words to talk about different concepts. To address this problem, the International Union for Conservation of Nature's World Commission on Protected Areas commissioned a task force to review existing terms and recommend a standard English‐language lexicon for this field based on key criteria. The results were definitions of 37 terms across 6 categories, including types of protected and additional conservation areas (e.g., protected area, additional conservation area), sets of these areas (protected area network, protected area system), their governance and management (governance, rightsholders), assessment (effectiveness, equitability), spatial planning (key biodiversity area), and action planning (value, outcome, objective). Our standard lexicon can provide a common language for people who want to use it and a shared reference point that can be used to translate various terms used by different groups. The common understanding provided by the lexicon can serve as a foundation for collaborative efforts to improve the policies, implementation, assessments, research, and learning about this important set of conservation approaches.
Niche‐based approach to explore the impacts of environmental disturbances on biodiversity
Authors: Sopniewski Jarrod , Catullo Renee , Ward Michelle , Mitchell Nicola , Scheele Ben C.
Published: April 2024

Globally, species are increasingly at risk from compounding threatening processes, an increasingly prominent driver of which is environmental disturbances. To facilitate effective conservation efforts following such events, methods that evaluate potential impacts across multiple species and provide landscape‐scale information are needed to guide targeted responses. Often, the geographic overlap between a disturbance and species’ distribution is calculated and then used as a proxy for potential impact. However, such methods do not account for the important influence of environmental heterogeneity throughout species’ ranges. To address this shortcoming, we quantified the effects of environmental disturbances on species’ environmental niche space. Using the Australian 2019 and 2020 Black Summer fires as a case study, we applied a niche‐centric approach to examine the potential impacts of these fires on 387 vertebrate species. We examined the utility of established and novel niche metrics to assess the potential impacts of large‐scale disturbance events on species by comparing the potential effects of the fires as determined by our various niche measures to those derived from geographic‐based measures of impact. We examined the quality of environmental space affected by the disturbance by quantifying the position in niche space where the disturbance occurred (center or margin), the uniqueness of the environmental space that was burned, and the degree to which the remaining, unburned portion of the niche differed from a species’ original prefire niche. There was limited congruence between the proportion of geographic and niche space affected, which showed that geographic‐based approaches in isolation may have underestimated the impact of the fires for 56% of modeled species. For each species, when combined, these metrics provided a greater indication of postdisturbance recovery potential than geographic‐based measures alone. Accordingly, the integration of niche‐based analyses into conservation assessments following large‐scale disturbance events will lead to a more nuanced understanding of potential impacts and guide more informed and effective conservation actions.
Aesthetic Governance and China's Rural Toilet Revolution
Authors: Lan Xi , Ku Hok Bun , Zhan Yang
Published: April 2024

This article addresses aesthetic politics in the Chinese rural toilet revolution. Toilet retrofitting is conventionally regarded as an issue of sanitation improvement, but in the emerging trend of rural post‐productivism transformation, toilets have become contested sites of aesthetic governance in rural development. Using the case of a village in Northern China, the authors show that, in order to beautify the rural environment, toilet identification, selection, placement and demolition are all directed by aesthetic norms for a beautiful village. Additionally, the aestheticization of village development has legitimized state‐led development by creating a common‐sense understanding of and imagination for the future. However, aesthetic logics can represent a mismatch with the realities of local lives, resulting in place alienation and suspended development. This article unpacks the logics, mechanisms and spatial‐social processes of aesthetic governance in the Chinese toilet revolution.
Greater attention to socioeconomic status in developmental research can improve the external validity, generalizability, and replicability of developmental science
Authors: Singh Leher , Rajendra Sarah J.
Published: April 2024

Psychological researchers have been criticized for making broad presumptions about human behavior based on limited sampling. In part, presumptive generalizability is reflected in the limited representation of sociodemographic variation in research reports. In this analysis, we examine time‐trends in reporting of a key sociodemographic construct relevant to many aspects of child development—socioeconomic status (SES)—across six mainstream developmental journals (Infancy, Child Development, Developmental Science, Developmental Psychology, Infant and Child Development, and Infant Behavior & Development) between 2016 and 2022. Findings point to limited reporting of SES across developmental journals and across time. Reporting rates varied significantly by region and by topic of development. In terms of specific indicators of SES, there was consistent use of income and caregiver education as SES indicators. The epistemic costs of the lack of integration of socio‐economic factors in developmental research are addressed. Pathways to greater integration of SES are proposed.

Research Highlights

We analyzed reporting and representation of socioeconomic status in published studies on early child development.

A large proportion of published studies did not report any socio‐economic information.

Suggestions for greater attention to socioeconomic status are proposed.
Crime over the welfare payment cycle
Authors: Stam Marco T. C. , Knoef Marike G. , Ramakers Anke A. T.
Published: April 2024

This study examines criminal behavior over the welfare payment cycle. Using unique individual‐level administrative data on welfare recipients, we exploit exogenous variation in payment dates over time and across Dutch municipalities. The results suggest that financially motivated crime increases by 12% over the payment cycle, indicating serious financial constraints toward the end of the month. Non‐financially motivated offenses, particularly sex and violent offenses and driving under the influence offenses (DUIs), peak directly after benefits receipt and decrease over the payment cycle, suggesting an underlying spike in consumption conducive to crime. Public order offenses and DUIs also increase with weekend disbursement.
Rethinking the external globus pallidus and information flow in cortico‐basal ganglia‐thalamic circuits
Authors: Giossi Cristina , Rubin Jonathan E. , Gittis Aryn , Verstynen Timothy , Vich Catalina
Published: April 2024

For decades, the external globus pallidus (GPe) has been viewed as a passive way‐station in the indirect pathway of the cortico‐basal ganglia‐thalamic (CBGT) circuit, sandwiched between striatal inputs and basal ganglia outputs. According to this model, one‐way descending striatal signals in the indirect pathway amplify the suppression of downstream thalamic nuclei by inhibiting GPe activity. Here, we revisit this assumption, in light of new and emerging work on the cellular complexity, connectivity and functional role of the GPe in behaviour. We show how, according to this new circuit‐level logic, the GPe is ideally positioned for relaying ascending and descending control signals within the basal ganglia. Focusing on the problem of inhibitory control, we illustrate how this bidirectional flow of information allows for the integration of reactive and proactive control mechanisms during action selection. Taken together, this new evidence points to the GPe as being a central hub in the CBGT circuit, participating in bidirectional information flow and linking multifaceted control signals to regulate behaviour.
Towards enhanced adoption of soil‐improving management practices in Europe
Authors: Heller Olivier , Bene Claudia Di , Nino Pasquale , Huyghebaert Bruno , Arlauskienė Aušra , Castanheira Nádia L. , Higgins Suzanne , Horel Agota , Kir Alev , Kizeková Miriam , Lacoste Marine , Munkholm Lars J. , O'Sullivan Lilian , Radzikowski Paweł , Rodríguez‐Cruz M. Sonia , Sandén Taru , Šarūnaitė Lina , Seidel Felix , Spiegel Heide , Stalenga Jarosław , Uusi‐Kämppä Jaana , Vervuurt Wieke , Keller Thomas , Vanwindekens Frédéric
Published: April 2024

Sustainable agricultural soil management practices are key to restore, maintain and improve soil health. The European Joint Programme for SOIL (EJP SOIL) has identified twelve main soil challenges in Europe. To assess the potential and eventually increase the adoption of soil‐improving management practices, it is necessary to know (i) the current levels of adoption of the practices, (ii) socio‐technical barriers influencing their adoption, and (iii) their bio‐physical limits. This study compiled an inventory of soil‐improving management practices relevant to European conditions, and used a survey among soil scientists to assess the levels of adoption of these practices in Europe. In total, 53 soil management practices were identified that address one or several of the soil challenges. The adoption of most practices was low or spatially heterogeneous across Europe, highlighting region‐specific limitations to sustainable soil management. Qualitative interviews were conducted to explore the importance of socio‐technical aspects of adoption. Using conservation agriculture as an example, factors that can hinder adoption included the availability of knowledge and adequate machinery, financial risks, and farming traditions. Through a modelling approach, 54% of arable land in Europe was found to be suitable for cover cropping, indicating that the adoption of soil management practices is frequently limited by climatic constraints. We propose a region‐specific approach that recognizes the importance of identifying and overcoming socio‐technical barriers, and by acknowledging bio‐physical limits that may be expanded by innovation.
Cost‐effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy for people living with motor neuron disease, and their health‐related quality of life
Authors: Keetharuth Anju D. , Gould Rebecca L. , McDermott Christopher J. , Thompson Benjamin J. , Rawlinson Charlotte , Bradburn Mike , Bursnall Matt , Kumar Pavithra , Turton Emily J. , Tappenden Paul , White David , Howard Robert J. , Serfaty Marc A. , McCracken Lance M. , Graham Christopher D. , Al‐Chalabi Ammar , Goldstein Laura H. , Lawrence Vanessa , Cooper Cindy , Young Tracey ,   the COMMEND Collaboration Group
Published: April 2024

Background

Given the degenerative nature of the condition, people living with motor neuron disease (MND) experience high levels of psychological distress. The purpose of this research was to investigate the cost‐effectiveness of acceptance and commitment therapy (ACT), adapted for the specific needs of this population, for improving quality of life.

Methods

A trial‐based cost–utility analysis over a 9‐month period was conducted comparing ACT plus usual care (n = 97) versus usual care alone (n = 94) from the perspective of the National Health Service. In the primary analysis, quality‐adjusted life years (QALYs) were computed using health utilities generated from the EQ‐5D‐5L questionnaire. Sensitivity analyses and subgroup analyses were also carried out.

Results

Difference in costs was statistically significant between the two arms, driven mainly by the intervention costs. Effects measured by EQ‐5D‐5L were not statistically significantly different between the two arms. The incremental cost‐effectiveness was above the £20,000 to £30,000 per QALY gained threshold used in the UK. However, the difference in effects was statistically significant when measured by the McGill Quality of Life‐Revised (MQOL‐R) questionnaire. The intervention was cost‐effective in a subgroup experiencing medium deterioration in motor neuron symptoms.

Conclusions

Despite the intervention being cost‐ineffective in the primary analysis, the significant difference in the effects measured by MQOL‐R, the low costs of the intervention, the results in the subgroup analysis, and the fact that ACT was shown to improve the quality of life for people living with MND, suggest that ACT could be incorporated into MND clinical services.
Formulation of stress intensity factor under pure bending condition in multilayer pavements using numerical study and model tree approach
Authors: Sarbijan Majid Jebalbarezi , Asadi Saeid , Hamze‐Ziabari Seyed Mahmood
Published: April 2024

The tensile deformation of top‐down cracks significantly influences pavement delamination. Accurately formulating the stress intensity factor (SIF) is crucial for assessing the stress/strain near crack tips. In the present study, a robust data mining method called M5´ is employed to formulate the SIF induced by pure bending in a multilayer pavement. A comprehensive database is generated through two‐dimensional finite element analysis to train the M5’ model. Several key parameters pertaining to asphalt and base layers are incorporated into the formulation. A comparative analysis is conducted to evaluate the performance of the developed model against traditional regression methods. A comparison of the developed model with other existing methods confirms its superior performance. Additionally, a parametric study validates the robustness of the developed model in capturing fundamental concepts of fracture mechanics. Finally, a sensitivity analysis is performed to determine the most critical parameters in the development of a predictive model for SIF.
Differentially expressed genes of esophageal tissue in male acute and chronic sleep deprivation mice
Authors: Li Jing , Lu Yifan , Yang Dingding , Ren Mudan , Yin Yan , Zhao Yan , He Shuixiang
Published: April 2024

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is associated with sleep disturbances. However, mechanisms underlying these interactions remain unclear. Male acute and chronic sleep deprivation (SD) mice were used for this study. Mice in the chronic SD group exhibited anxiety‐ and depression‐like behaviors. We further performed high‐throughput genome sequencing and bioinformatics analysis to screen for featured differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the esophageal tissue. The acute SD group, comprised 25 DEGs including 14 downregulated and 11 upregulated genes. Compared with the acute SD group, more DEGs were present in the chronic SD group, with a total of 169 DEGs, including 88 downregulated and 81 upregulated genes. Some DEGs that were closely related to GERD and associated esophageal diseases were significantly different in the chronic SD group. Quantitative real‐time polymerase chain reaction verified the downregulation of Krt4, Krt13, Krt15 and Calml3 and upregulation of Baxl1 and Per3. Notably, these DEGs are involved in biological processes, which might be the pathways of the neuroregulatory mechanisms of DEGs expression.