bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design Considerations for Two-Stage Enrichment Clinical Trials
Authors: Frieri Rosamarie , Rosenberger William Fisher , Flournoy Nancy , Lin Zhantao
Published: November 2022

When there is a predictive biomarker, enrichment can focus the clinical trial on a benefiting subpopulation. We describe a two-stage enrichment design, in which the first stage is designed to efficiently estimate a threshold and the second stage is a “phase III-like” trial on the enriched population. The goal of this paper is to explore design issues: sample size in Stages 1 and 2, and re-estimation of the Stage 2 sample size following Stage 1. By treating these as separate trials, we can gain insight into how the predictive nature of the biomarker specifically impacts the sample size. We also show that failure to adequately estimate the threshold can have disastrous consequences in the second stage. While any bivariate model could be used, we assume a continuous outcome and continuous biomarker, described by a bivariate normal model. The correlation coefficient between the outcome and biomarker is the key to understanding the behavior of the design, both for predictive and prognostic biomarkers. Through a series of simulations we illustrate the impact of model misspecification, consequences of poor threshold estimation, and requisite sample sizes that depend on the predictive nature of the biomarker. Such insight should be helpful in understanding and designing enrichment trials.
What did unions do for union workers during the COVID‐19 pandemic?
Authors: Han Eunice S.
Published: November 2022

This research examines the impact of the COVID‐19 pandemic on labour market outcomes of union workers, based on nationally representative data. I employ the difference‐in‐difference estimation to identify the effect of the COVID‐19 pandemic on the employment, labour earnings and other labour market outcomes of union workers, relative to non‐union workers. I find that, compared to non‐union workers, union workers experienced greater job security, and the pre‐pandemic union wage premium remained largely unchanged during the pandemic. There exists a large heterogeneity in the union effect on employment and real wages by worker characteristic. I also find that union workers, compared to non‐union workers, were less likely to work remotely but more likely to receive pay for hours not worked due to COVID‐19. The results suggest that unions provided workers with employment stability and an economic buffer during the pandemic‐led recession.
Exposure to parental incarceration and subsequent illicit drug use: A review of the literature
Authors: Rowell‐Cunsolo Tawandra L. , Bellerose Meghan , Borbely Carson
Published: November 2022

More than 2.3 million individuals are currently incarcerated in the United States. Nearly half of incarcerated individuals are parents of minor children. Results from research on drug use among children of incarcerated individuals are conflicting. The purpose of this literature review is to identify and summarize the evidence base on the associations between parental incarceration (PI) and subsequent drug use in the United States. We performed a literature search of studies that examined associations between exposure to parental incarceration and subsequent drug use. We searched PubMed, Web of Science, Embase, Scopus, and SocIndex to identify studies that reported illicit drug use outcomes among individuals with a parent or primary guardian who had been incarcerated in the United States. Sixteen studies were included in our analysis. There was substantial evidence that parental incarceration contributes to increased drug use and problematic drug‐related behaviours in adolescence and adulthood, with positive associations reported in three‐fourths of the studies (75%). The relationship was significant across a range of drug classes, including marijuana, cocaine, prescription pain medication, injection drugs and other illicit drugs. While more diverse research methodologies and studies that examine the larger family context and dynamics are needed to comprehensively assess the pathways to drug use among PI‐exposed individuals, the current evidence base suggests that drug use prevention programs are needed to mitigate the increased likelihood of drug use. Early education drug use prevention programs and comprehensive assessments that identify potential triggers for drug use should be prioritized for this population.
A systematic review of snake translocations to identify potential tactics for reducing postrelease effects
Authors: Choquette Jonathan D. , Litzgus Jacqueline D. , Gui Joanne X. Y. , Pitcher Trevor E.
Published: November 2022

Advancements in the field of reintroduction biology are needed, but understanding of how to effectively conduct translocations, particularly with snakes, is lacking. We conducted a systematic review of snake translocation studies to identify potential tactics for reducing postrelease effects. We included studies on intentional, human‐mediated, wild–wild, or captive–wild translocations to any location, regardless of motive or number of snakes translocated. Only studies that presented results for at least 1 of 4 outcomes (movement behavior, site fidelity, survival, or population establishment) were included. We systematically searched 4 databases for published studies and used 5 methods to search the gray literature. Our search and screening criteria yielded 121 data sources, representing 130 translocation cases. We quantified the association between 15 translocation tactics and short‐term translocation outcomes by calculating odds ratios and used forest plots to display results. Snake translocations involved 47 species (from mainly 2 families), and most were motivated by research, were monitored for at least 6 months, occurred in North America, and took place from the 1990s onward. The odds of a positive snake translocation outcome were highest with release of captive reared or juvenile snakes, release of social groups together, delayed release, provision of environmental enrichment or social housing before release, or minimization of distance translocated. The odds of a positive outcome were lowest when snakes were released early in their active season. Our results do not demonstrate causation, but outcomes of snake translocation were associated with 8 tactics (4 of which were strongly correlated). In addition to targeted comparative studies, we recommend practitioners consider the possible influence of these tactics when planning snake translocations.
Prevalence and management of tuberculosis infection in Apulian rheumatologic patients treated with biologics: An observational cohort 10‐year study from the BIOPURE registry
Authors: Fornaro Marco , Stano Stefano , Goletti Delia , Semeraro Angelo , Cantatore Francesco Paolo , Maruotti Nicola , Colella Sergio , Abbruzzese Anna , Santo Leonardo , Praino Emanuela , Iannone Florenzo
Published: November 2022

Introduction

The objective of this study was to assess the 10‐year prevalence of latent tuberculosis infection (LTBI) among Apulian patients with rheumatic diseases (RDs). Secondary endpoint was to record new cases of active TB disease and LTBI among patients treated with biologic disease‐modifying antirheumatic drugs (bDMARDs).

Methods

We analysed the results from the patients included in the BIOPURE registry from 2009 to 2018, who underwent QuantiFERON‐TB Gold In‐tube (QFT‐GIT) test as screening before bDMARDs treatment. Demographic and clinical data were recorded at the time of the first QFT‐GIT test. Administration of preventive therapy and bDMARD treatments were recorded for patients with positive QFT‐GIT test. All new tuberculosis infections were recorded during the follow‐up.

Results

The final study population included 3028 patients (855 rheumatoid arthritis, 1001 psoriatic arthritis, 833 spondyloarthritis, 130 connective tissue diseases, 33 systemic vasculitis and 176 other inflammatory rheumatic conditions), more frequently female (67.2%), with a mean age of 52 ± 18 years. Patients with QFT‐GIT‐positive test were elderly people, predominantly male with higher prevalence of diabetes as comorbidity. The 10‐year prevalence of LTBI was 10.8%. Of note, no cases of TB reactivation were recorded in patients who completed preventive therapy treatment. Three thousand and sixteen patients were followed over time (42.6 ± 30 months), and five (.2%) developed active TB, which corresponds to .47 cases per 1000 person‐years.

Conclusions

In the 10‐year observation, the use of bDMARDs seems to be safe in rheumatologic patients with positive QFT‐GIT test treated according to current recommendations. Nevertheless, cases of primary TB disease did occur during treatment with biologicals.
Improving light‐cured intermediate resin for hard and space mouthguard using a glass fiber
Authors: Sakaue Takahiro , Togo Shinji , Tsutsui Arata , Matsuda Yoshiaki , Nakajima Kazunori , Takeda Tomotaka , Fukuda Kenichi , Vallittu Pekka , Lassila Lippo
Published: November 2022

Background/Aims

A light‐cured intermediate material is useful for fabricating a hard insert and a buffer space mouthguard (H&SMG). However, it requires improvement in its mechanical properties and shock‐absorbing capacity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the mechanical properties of two prototype light‐cured intermediate materials reinforced with glass fibers, and the impact absorption capacity and durability of H&SMGs made with the prototype intermediate materials.

Materials and Methods

Two prototype materials containing long and microlength glass fibers in a light‐cured intermediate material, Innerframe LC®, for H&SMG, were fabricated and tested. A three‐point bending test was performed for evaluation of the mechanical properties. In addition, a shock absorption test was conducted using a customized pendulum impact testing machine to evaluate the H&SMGs' impact absorption capacity and durability.

Results

Long and microlength glass fibers significantly improved flexural modulus and strength. H&SMGs made with these two glass fiber‐containing materials had high impact absorption capacity against both low and high impact forces, while the mouthguards made with long glass fiber materials had the best results.

Conclusion

Long and microlength glass fibers with the prototype materials improved the mechanical properties of Innerframe LC® and the impact absorption capacity and durability of H&SMGs. H&SMGs made with the long glass fiber prototype materials had the best performance.
Sports mouthguard overview: Materials, fabrication techniques, existing standards, and future research needs
Authors: Roberts Howard Wayne
Published: November 2022

Sports mouthguards are proven devices that reduce both the probability of and damage to orofacial tissues. While commonly used, clinicians may be unaware of the different sports mouthguard materials, proposed fabrication techniques, design recommendations, and newer digital fabrication methods. An overview of existing sports mouthguard standards is presented. It identifies that identify that the present requirements, while historically chosen in good faith, appear to be arbitrarily selected and not from clinical evidence‐based derived data. In addition, identified sports mouthguard heterogeneous testing and data acquisition methods distinguishes that little possibility is afforded for the correlation of results. Furthermore, updated evidence with concussion prevention and/or alleviation is presented with evidence provided by sports mouthguard imbedded technology. The need for continued research is stressed to provide evidence‐based data for concussion alleviation/prevention, digital fabrication methods and materials, and clinically based information for the revision of existing standards.
I spy with my little eye: The detection of changes in emotional faces and the influence of facial feedback in Parkinson disease
Authors: Kuehne Maria , Polotzek Laura , Haghikia Aiden , Zaehle Tino , Lobmaier Janek S.
Published: November 2022

Background and purpose

Parkinson disease (PD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder that affects the motor system but also involves deficits in emotional processing such as facial emotion recognition. In healthy participants, it has been shown that facial mimicry, the automatic imitation of perceived facial expressions, facilitates the interpretation of the emotional states of our counterpart. In PD patients, recent studies revealed reduced facial mimicry and consequently reduced facial feedback, suggesting that this reduction might contribute to the prominent emotion recognition deficits found in PD.

Methods

We investigated the influence of facial mimicry on facial emotion recognition. Twenty PD patients and 20 healthy controls (HCs) underwent a classical facial mimicry manipulation (holding a pen with the lips, teeth, or nondominant hand) while performing an emotional change detection task with faces.

Results

As expected, emotion recognition was significantly influenced by facial mimicry manipulation in HCs, further supporting the hypothesis of facial feedback and the related theory of embodied simulation. Importantly, patients with PD, generally and independent from the facial mimicry manipulation, were impaired in their ability to detected emotion changes. Our data further show that PD patients' facial emotional recognition abilities are completely unaffected by mimicry manipulation, suggesting that PD patients cannot profit from an artificial modulation of the already impaired facial feedback.

Conclusions

These findings suggest that it is not the hypomimia and the absence of facial feedback per se, but a disruption of the facial feedback loop, that leads to the prominent emotion recognition deficit in PD patients.
Reducing chronic back pain and inflammation in horses using a commercial herbal liniment
Authors: Walter Kelly Winsco , Altman Jay , Haussler Kevin
Published: December 2022

Background

Back pain in horses, regardless of the underlying cause, is a common condition that can result in poor performance. The field veterinarian has limited noninvasive treatment options for reduction in back muscle soreness. This study was designed to evaluate effectiveness of a commercially available herbal, nonheating liniment (Sore No More Performance Ultra, Arenus), in reducing pain and inflammation in horses with mild back pain.

Objectives

Focus on a standardised area of the lumbar back region to evaluate effects of an herbal liniment over 44 days using pressure algometry to determine pain response and thermographic measurement of surface temperature to evaluate inflammation.

Study design

A randomised complete block design was used. Eighteen mature stock horses were evaluated for back pain and randomly assigned to treatment group (herbal liniment or control solution).

Methods

All horses maintained similar light work 5 days per week in a university equestrian programme for 44 days. Evaluation of the back was standardised by identifying the lumbar region, and pain and inflammation assessed weekly with force gauge pressure readings and thermal images.

Results

All horses displayed a decrease in pain scores over the first 3 weeks of the study, but the control group saw a rise in pain scores at Day 23. Pain scores on the left side of the back were significantly lower in the liniment group than the control group at Day 30.

Main limitations

Number of horses available for the study was limited. Daily exercise of the horses used represented typical use of mature lesson horses, however, was not standardised for the entirety of the 44‐day trial.

Conclusions

Standardised evaluation procedures using pressure algometry and thermography found that Sore No More Performance Ultra herbal liniment had some effect on thermography (inflammation) and pain response of the back, with improvements shown at 23–30 days.
Environmental correlates of body size influence range size and extinction risk: A global study in rodents
Authors: Fourcade Yoan , Alhajeri Bader H.
Published: November 2022

Aim

Species‐level traits, such as body and range sizes, are important correlates of extinction risk. However, both are often related and are driven by environmental factors. Here, we elucidated links between environmental factors, body size, range size and susceptibility to extinction, across the whole order of rodents.

Location

Global.

Time period

Current.

Major taxa studied

Rodents (order Rodentia).

Methods

We compiled an unprecedentedly large database of rodent morphology, phylogeny, range size, conservation status, global climate and normalized difference vegetation index (NDVI), comprising >86% of all described species. Using phylogenetic regressions, we initially explored the environmental factors driving body size. Next, we modelled the relationship between body size and range size. From this relationship, we computed and mapped (at the assemblage level) an index of relative range size, corresponding to the deviation from the expected range size of each species, given its body size. Finally, we tested whether relative range was correlated with the risk of extinction of the species derived from an assessment by the International Union for Conservation of Nature.

Results

We found that, contrary to the expectations of Bergmann's rule, the body size of rodents was mostly influenced by variation in NDVI (rather than latitude/temperature). Body size, in turn, imposed a constraint on species range size, as evidenced by a triangular relationship that was segmented at the lower bound. The relative species range size derived from this relationship highlighted four geographical regions where rodents with small relative range were concentrated globally. We demonstrated that lower relative range size was associated with increased risk of extinction.

Main conclusions

Species that, given their body size, are distributed across ranges that are smaller than expected have elevated extinction risk. Therefore, investigating the relationships between environmental drivers, body size and range size might help to detect species that could become threatened in the near future.
The ebb and flow of the Seaflower marine biosphere reserve: Law entanglements and socio‐environmental justice in the southwestern Caribbean Sea
Authors: García Ch. María Catalina
Published: November 2022

This paper explores the spatio‐legal dynamics of marine protected areas and their relation to socio‐environmental justice. It adopts a critical legal geography perspective to unpack ocean lawscape configurations triggered by territorial claims, the international mechanisms for maritime boundary‐making, and state sovereignty instruments. It is empirically focused on the Seaflower marine biosphere reserve, a protected area amid a geopolitical contestation between Nicaragua and Colombia in the southwestern Caribbean. By analysing its spatio‐legal history over two decades (2000–2021), the paper sheds light on the marine legalities of this region, which are often contradictory and overlapping. Focusing on the marine lawscape of Colombia, it explores the relationship between protected areas and marine territorialisation, also reflecting on the governance regimes' effects on indigenous livelihoods and marine biodiversity. The paper concludes that (i) marine protected areas are regularly being disrupted, re‐bordered, and reconfigured by the international ocean regimes governing the oceans; (ii) the link between the creation and management of marine protected areas and territorial jurisdiction compromises social and environmental justice, and (iii) inclusion of indigenous legalities might enhance equity and sustainability in ocean governance.
Coupling the benefits of grassland crops and green biorefining to produce protein, materials and services for the green transition
Authors: Jørgensen Uffe , Jensen Søren Krogh , Ambye‐Jensen Morten
Published: December 2022

Compared with annual grain and seed crops, perennial grassland has significantly lower losses of nutrients and low pesticide requirements, whilst also supporting soil carbon build‐up. Until now grassland crops have almost exclusively been fed to ruminants and horses. Our experiments on biorefining forages have produced protein of a quality equal to soybean meal. Forage crops can deliver high yields of biomass as well as protein with a well‐balanced amino acid profile. In grass crops from unfertilised permanent grassland, focus has to be on the fibre part of the grass due to a low protein yield. With current techniques we have recovered up to 40% of the forage protein into a protein concentrate with around 50% protein. In addition, a fibre fraction containing 15%–18% protein of dry matter can be produced and used as ruminant feed, bioenergy, or further biorefined into chemical building blocks or bio‐materials. Our feeding experiments have shown that biorefined grassland protein can provide a substitute for soybean meal for poultry and pigs without negative effects on animal performance. The first industrial scale biorefineries on green biomass for feed and bioenergy are now established in Denmark, although more research is needed in order to evaluate protein quality for both feed and food applications. In addition, a full EFSA approval has to be obtained for the application for food. The green biorefinery concept opens new markets for grassland and opportunities for increasing the grassland area to obtain associated ecosystem services.
Discussion on the common controversies of Helicobacter pylori infection
Authors: Yang Hang , Mou Yi , Hu Bing
Published: November 2022

Background

Helicobacter pylori ( H. pylori ) can persistently colonize on the gastric mucosa after infection and cause gastritis, atrophy, metaplasia, and even gastric cancer (GC).

Methods

Therefore, the detection and eradication of H. pylori are the prerequisite.

Results

Clinically, there are some controversial issues, such as why H. pylori infection is persistent, why it translocases along with the lesser curvature of the stomach, why there is oxyntic antralization, what the immunological characteristic of gastric chronic inflammation caused by H. pylori is, whether H. pylori infection is associated with extra‐gastric diseases, whether chronic atrophic gastritis (CAG) is reversible, and what the potential problems are after H. pylori eradication. What are the possible answers?

Conclusion

In the review, we will discuss these issues from the attachment to eradication in detail.
Low mortality in vaccinated immunocompromised haematology patients infected with SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Shaw Briony , Shortt Jake , Low Michael , Rogers Benjamin , Kaplan Zane , Fedele Pasquale , Gregory Gareth , Vilcassim Shahla , Gilbertson Michael , Grigoriadis George , Opat Stephen
Published: November 2022

Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) infection in patients with haematological neoplasms has been associated with increased mortality; however, many studies in this patient group were reported early in the pandemic. The authors evaluated outcomes of COVID‐19 infection in patients with haematological conditions following widespread vaccination, newer viral variants and increasingly effective antiviral therapies. A 4% mortality rate was found and contemporary risk factors for hospitalisation including older age, nonvaccination or partial COVID‐19 vaccination status and infection with non‐Omicron strain were identified.
Has long‐distance flight ability been maintained by pigeons in highly insular habitats?
Authors: Tsujimoto Daichi , Ando Haruko , Suzuki Hajime , Horikoshi Kazuo , Nakajima Nobuyoshi , Suyama Yoshihisa , Matsuo Ayumi , Fujii Chieko , Isagi Yuji
Published: November 2022

Aim

A reduction in dispersal ability has been thought to be a general trend for island land birds. However, recent studies have indicated that long‐distance dispersal among island habitats may be maintained in island pigeon populations. Here, we investigated whether pigeons could maintain their long‐distance dispersal ability to move among islands within the archipelago, even in highly insular conditions, by comparing two subspecies of Japanese wood pigeon distributed on islands with different levels of insularity.

Location

The Ogasawara, Izu and Nansei Islands in the north‐western Pacific Ocean.

Taxon

Japanese wood pigeon (Columba janthina).

Methods

We compared the hand‐wing index related to dispersal potential between the two subspecies: C. j. janthina and C. j. nitens. We performed phylogenetic analyses with likelihood and Bayesian frameworks and estimated population genetic structure using the principal component analyses and individual admixture analyses based on the genotype likelihood of MIG‐seq SNPs. We calculated divergence times of the two subspecies using Bayesian and PSMC models for MIG‐seq SNPs and whole genome data, respectively.

Results

C. j. nitens had a wing shape that was better suited for long‐distance flight than that of C. j. janthina. Both subspecies maintained sufficient gene flow among the islands within their habitat archipelagos, with no evidence of isolation by distance. The divergence time of the two subspecies was 0.67 (95%CI: 0.33–0.97) million years ago, which was sufficient to reduce dispersiveness compared to other cases of island land birds.

Main Conclusion

Long‐distance flight can be maintained under highly insular conditions despite long‐term isolation from the ancestral populations. This indicates that the strategy of maintaining dispersal ability may also be possible in island systems, where organisms have repeatedly and globally shown reduced dispersal ability. Although further studies are required to reveal its evolutionary processes, our study provides an exceptional case for island birds' biogeography.
Intraspecific variation in reproductive barriers between two closely related Arabidopsis sister species
Authors: Perrier Antoine , Willi Yvonne
Published: November 2022

Reproductive isolation (RI) is a critical component of speciation and varies strongly in timing and strength among different sister taxa, depending on, for example the geography of speciation and divergence time. However, these factors may also produce variation in timing and strength among populations within species. Here we tested for variation in the expression of RI among replicate population pairs between the sister taxa Arabidopsis lyrata subsp. lyrata and A. arenicola. While the former is predominantly outcrossing, the latter is predominantly selfing. We focused on intrinsic prezygotic and postzygotic RI as both species occur largely in allopatry. We assessed RI by performing within‐population crosses and interspecific between‐population crosses, and by raising offspring. RI was generally high between all interspecific population pairs, but it varied in timing and strength depending on population history. Prezygotic isolation was strongest between the closest‐related population pair, while early postzygotic isolation was high for all other population pairs. Furthermore, the timing and strength of RI depended strongly on cross direction. Our study provides empirical support that reproductive barriers between species are highly variable among population pairs and asymmetric within population pairs, and this variation seems to follow patterns typically described across species pairs.
The potential of soil amendment with insect exuviae and frass to control the cabbage root fly
Authors: Wantulla Max , van Zadelhoff Kristian , van Loon Joop J. A. , Dicke Marcel
Published: November 2022

Reliable options to control the cabbage root fly, Delia radicum L., are lacking in many countries as restrictions on insecticide use have tightened due to environmental concerns. Although microbial control agents are often considered as a sustainable alternative, their application in agriculture is constrained by inconsistent efficacy owing to low field persistence. To stimulate naturally occurring beneficial microbes, soil amendment with the residual streams of insect production has been suggested as an alternative to synthetic fertilization and a new approach to microbial crop protection. In a set of greenhouse experiments, exuviae and frass of black soldier fly larvae, Hermetia illucens L., house crickets, Acheta domesticus L. and exuviae of mealworms, Tenebrio molitor L., were added to soil from an organically managed field. Exuviae and frass treatments were compared to treatments with synthetic fertilizer. Brussels sprouts, Brassica oleracea L., plants were grown in amended soil for 5 weeks before being infested with cabbage root fly larvae. Insect and plant performance were assessed by recording cabbage root fly survival, biomass and eclosion time and seed germination and plant biomass, respectively. Whereas soil amendment with black soldier fly frass or exuviae reduced cabbage root fly survival and biomass, respectively, amendment with house cricket or mealworm residual streams did not negatively affect root fly performance. Furthermore, seed germination was reduced in soil amended with house cricket exuviae, while amendment with either residual stream derived from black soldier fly larvae or house crickets resulted in lower plant shoot biomass compared with the synthetic fertilizer treatment. Amending soil with black soldier fly residual streams could become a novel and low‐cost tool to be integrated in cabbage root fly management programmes, especially where methods currently available are insufficient. Therefore, the mechanisms underlying the effects of insect‐derived soil amendments described here should be the focus of future research.
DC‐EPG assisted comparison of European spittlebugs and sharpshooters feeding behaviour on grapevine
Authors: Markheiser Anna , Santoiemma Giacomo , Fereres Alberto , Kugler Sanela , Maixner Michael , Cornara Daniele
Published: November 2022

Xylem‐feeding is apparently the only requirement making an insect a competent vector of the bacterium Xylella fastidiosa, an organism responsible for the devastation of the Southern Italian olive forest and nowadays considered one of the most feared threats to agriculture and landscape in Europe, including vineyards. Here, we used the direct current‐electrical penetration graph (DC‐EPG) technique to compare and describe the feeding behaviour on grapevine of four xylem‐feeding species considered candidate vectors of X. fastidiosa widespread in Europe, namely two spittlebugs (the meadow spittlebug Philaenus spumarius and the spittlebug Neophilaenus campestris) and two sharpshooter leafhoppers (the rhododendron leafhopper Graphocephala fennahi and the green leafhopper Cicadella viridis). We created a standard for the analysis of EPG waveforms recorded with a DC‐EPG device, describing feeding activities performed by these insects from stylet insertion into the plant to withdrawal. This standard, along with freely available software, has been developed to harmonize the calculation of feeding behavioural parameters in xylem‐feeders. The most relevant differences between the two vector taxa were the probing frequency and the dynamics of xylem ingestion. Sharpshooters tended to perform significantly more probes than spittlebugs. In contrast, the latter spent longer times in low‐frequency xylem ingestion, characterized by scattered contractions of the cibarial dilator muscle interspersed with periods of pump inactivity. Cicadella viridis was the species displaying the highest frequency of the electrical pattern found to be associated with X. fastidiosa inoculation in spittlebugs (Xe). Feeding behavioural data presented here represent an important step forward for deepening our knowledge of xylem‐sap feeding insects' interaction with both the host plants and the bacterium they transmit.
Ethical analysis of vulnerabilities in cluster randomized trials involving people living with dementia in long‐term care homes
Authors: Nix Hayden P. , Largent Emily A. , Taljaard Monica , Mitchell Susan L. , Weijer Charles
Published: November 2022

Cluster randomized trials (CRT) of non‐pharmacological interventions are an important means of improving the quality of care and quality of life of people living with dementia (PLWD) in long‐term care (LTC) homes. PLWD in LTC homes are, however, vulnerable in manifold ways. Therefore, researchers require guidance to ensure that the rights and welfare of PLWD are protected in the course of this valuable research. In this article, we introduce a framework for identifying vulnerabilities in randomized trials and apply it to three CRTs involving PLWD in LTC homes. CRTs may render PLWD in LTC homes vulnerable to three autonomy wrongs: inadequately informed consent, inadequately voluntary consent, and invasions of privacy; two welfare wrongs: risks of therapeutic procedure exceed potential benefits, and excessive risk of non‐therapeutic procedures; and one justice wrong: unjust impact of research activities on care. We then discuss appropriate, feasible additional protections that can be implemented to mitigate vulnerability while preserving the scientific validity of the CRT. Corresponding additional protections that can be feasibly implemented include capacity assessments, substitute decision‐makers, assent, insulation from LTC home employees during the consent process, patient advocates, utilizing LTC home employees for data collection, stakeholder engagement, additional supervision during study procedures, using caregivers to complete questionnaires by proxy, and gatekeeper permission. Reassuringly, many of these additional protections promote, rather than imperil, the scientific validity of these trials.
Diagnostic yield of CT head in delirium and altered mental status—A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Akhtar Haris , Chaudhry Shazia H. , Bortolussi‐Courval Émilie , Hanula Ryan , Akhtar Anas , Nauche Bénédicte , McDonald Emily G.
Published: November 2022

Background

CT head is commonly performed in the setting of delirium and altered mental status (AMS), with variable yield. We aimed to evaluate the yield of CT head in hospitalized patients with delirium and/or AMS across a variety of clinical settings and identify factors associated with abnormal imaging.

Methods

We included studies in adult hospitalized patients, admitted to the emergency department (ED) and inpatient medical unit (grouped together) or the intensive care unit (ICU). Patients had a diagnosis of delirium/AMS and underwent a CT head that was classified as abnormal or not. We searched Medline, Embase and other databases (informed by PRISMA guidelines) from inception until November 11, 2021. Studies that were exclusively performed in patients with trauma or a fall were excluded. A meta‐analysis of proportions was performed; the pooled proportion of abnormal CTs was estimated using a random effects model. Heterogeneity was determined via the I2 statistic. Factors associated with an abnormal CT head were summarized qualitatively.

Results

Forty‐six studies were included for analysis. The overall yield of CT head in the inpatient/ED was 13% (95% CI: 10.2%–15.9%) and in ICU was 17.4% (95% CI: 10%–26.3%), with considerable heterogeneity (I2 96% and 98% respectively). Heterogeneity was partly explained after accounting for study region, publication year, and representativeness of the target population. Yield of CT head diminished after year 2000 (19.8% vs. 11.1%) and varied widely depending on geographical region (8.4%–25.9%). The presence of focal neurological deficits was a consistent factor that increased yield.

Conclusion

Use of CT head to diagnose the etiology of delirium and AMS varied widely and yield has declined. Guidelines and clinical decision support tools could increase the appropriate use of CT head in the diagnostic etiology of delirium/AMS.
Physical limitations and loneliness: The role of guilt related to self‐perception as a burden
Authors: Pedroso‐Chaparro María del Sequeros , Cabrera Isabel , Vara‐García Carlos , Márquez‐González María , Losada‐Baltar Andrés
Published: November 2022

Background

Limitations in performing physical activities have been associated with greater loneliness in older adults. This association could be moderated by maladaptive social cognition or feelings, such as guilt related to perceiving oneself as a burden. This study analyzes the effect of guilt related to self‐perception as a burden on the relationship between physical limitations and loneliness in older adults.

Methods

Participants were 190 community‐dwelling people aged over 60 years who did not show cognitive or functional limitations in daily life activities. We used linear regression to test the influence of guilt related to self‐perception as a burden on the association between physical limitations and loneliness.

Results

The interaction between physical limitations and guilt related to self‐perception as a burden was found to be significant in the explanation of loneliness, explaining 18.10% of the variance. Specifically, the relationship between physical limitations and loneliness was stronger when levels of guilt related to self‐perception as a burden were high or medium than when these levels were low.

Conclusions

The findings suggest that feelings of loneliness are more frequent in people who report more physical limitations and, at the same time, report guilt for perceiving themselves as a burden. Guilt related to perceiving oneself as a burden seems to be a relevant modulator variable for understanding the effects of physical limitations on loneliness.
Intention to leave among nurses during the COVID‐19 outbreak: A rapid systematic review and Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Ulupınar Fadime , Erden Yasemin
Published: November 2022

Aims and Objectives

The COVID‐19 pandemic has caused an increase in the workload of nurses and changes in working conditions. Stress and the increase in workload during the COVID‐19 pandemic had a negative effect on nurses' intention to leave. This study aimed to determine the current rate of intention to leave the job among nurses during the COVID‐19 outbreak by conducting a rapid systematic review and meta‐analysis.

Methodology/Methods

The review procedure was conducted by the PRISMA criteria. The researchers searched PubMed and Web of Science databases for studies providing the rate of nurses' intent to leave, published until 31 December 2021. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I2 test, and publication bias was measured by Egger's test.

Results

The estimated overall intent to leave the profession among nurses during the COVID‐19 pandemic was 31.7% (95% CI: 25%–39%) with significant heterogeneity (Q test: 188.9; p = 0.0001; I2: %95.2; Tau2: 0.225). Additionally, Egger's regression test suggested no publication bias for estimating the pooled rate of nurses' intent to leave during the COVID‐19 outbreak.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Since the research is a meta‐analysis study, a literature review model was used. Ethics committee approval was not obtained because the literature review did not directly affect humans and animals.

Conclusion

This study showed that approximately one‐third of nurses working during the COVID‐19 pandemic had thoughts about intending to leave their job. The findings indicate the need for strategies involving precautions and solutions to minimise the psychological impacts of COVID‐19 among nurses.

Relevance to Clinical Practice

In this period when the global nurse crisis exists, it is of great importance for institutions to retain their nurse workforce. There is an urgent need to prepare nurses to cope better with COVID‐19 pandemic. Identification of risk factors for intention to leave could be a significant weapon giving nurses and healthcare systems the ability to response in a better way against the following COVID‐19 waves in the near future.
Effects of class II intermaxillary elastics on masticatory muscle activity balance, occlusal contact area and masticatory performance: A multicenter randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nalamliang Napat , Thongudomporn Udom
Published: November 2022

Background

Bilateral Class II intermaxillary elastics (CII elastics) are commonly used in orthodontics; however, the effects of CII elastics on masticatory muscle activity and the occlusal contact area have not been studied.

Objectives

To evaluate the short‐term effects of CII elastics on masticatory muscle activity balance, occlusal contact area and masticatory performance in a group of adult orthodontic patients after 3 months.

Materials and Methods

Forty‐three patients with a <3 mm Class II molar relationship receiving ongoing treatment with fixed appliances were recruited. The experimental group (n = 21) wore CII elastics (100–150 g/side) full time; the control group (n = 22) did not wear CII elastics. Surface electromyography, the areas of occlusal contact and near contact (ACNC) and the median particle size of a test food were assessed prior to (T0) and after one (T1) and 3 months (T2). Within‐ and between‐group differences were analysed and the relationships between changes in dependent variables were examined (α = 0.05).

Results

At T2, the experimental group showed better masticatory muscle activity balance (p < .001) and masticatory performance (p < .05) than controls. Both masticatory muscle activity balance (p < .001) and masticatory performance (p < .001) significantly improved in the experimental group between T0 and T2. The changes in masticatory muscle activity balance and masticatory performance were significantly related (p < .05). No significant changes in cumulative ACNC or ACNC balance were observed (p > .05).

Conclusion

After 3 months, CII elastics improved masticatory muscle activity balance, which led to better masticatory performance.
Seasonality affects the below‐ground bud bank dynamics of the Cerrado
Authors: Ferraro Alexandre , Silva Gabriela S. , Martins Aline R. , Piedade Sônia Maria De S. , Fidelis Alessandra , Appezzato‐da‐Glória Beatriz
Published: November 2022

Question

How does seasonality affect the below‐ground bud bank dynamics in open savannas from the Cerrado and the density of below‐ground bud‐bearing organs? As the Cerrado is subject to marked seasonality, many herbaceous plants may lose their above‐ground biomass during the dry season, and regenerate it later in the rainy period through resprouting from below‐ground buds. Herein, we tested the hypothesis that seasonality may directly affect bud bank dynamics and below‐ground bud‐bearing organs, with a larger bud bank size and higher densities of below‐ground organs in the rainy season.

Location

Open savannas of the Cerrado, southeastern Brazil.

Methods

The bud bank was sampled in three open areas of the Cerrado. In each area, 10 plots were established, and, within each plot, the biomass was sampled to 10 cm below‐ground level. In the lab, buds and below‐ground organs were counted. We fitted generalized linear mixed models (GLMM) to test the differences in the bud bank and the below‐ground organ densities between the dry and rainy seasons.

Results

The bud bank size was smaller in the dry season. Buds found in the dry season suggest they were developed in the rainy season and remained dormant, not forming new shoots. Non‐woody rhizomes of caespitose grasses were more abundant during the rainy season. Xylopodia and woody rhizome densities were not significantly affected by seasonality.

Conclusions

Bud bank dynamics in the Cerrado is affected by seasonality. There is a decrease in bud bank density in the dry season, suggesting that buds were developed into new branches in the rainy season, but not all of them develop into new shoots in the same season. Thus, the bud bank evaluated in the dry season probably is formed by an accumulation of dormant preformed buds, highlighting the occurrence of a resprouting dynamic of native species of the Cerrado in the rainy season.
Sex‐specific impact of tooth wear on senescence in a low‐dimorphic mammal species: The European roe deer (Capreolus capreolus)
Authors: Chirichella R. , Apollonio M. , Pokorny B. , De Marinis A. M.
Published: November 2022

Among ungulates, capital breeding males, especially in highly dimorphic species, support higher reproductive costs than females. Roe deer, a relatively monomorphic species, is defined as an ‘income breeder’, using a concurrent intake of energy from forage to pay for a reproductive attempt. In a Northern Apennines (Arezzo province, Tuscany, Central Italy) population, we detected sexual dimorphism in adult roe deer according to average body mass (males 11% heavier than females), mandible size (male mandibles are 2% longer than female ones), and tooth measurements (first lower molar 10% higher and mandible cheek teeth row 4% longer in males than in females, providing males with a larger surface for chewing). In our study, body mass and body condition of roe deer males decreased with increasing tooth wear as in females. However, males started losing weight at a lower tooth wear level than females; after losing about 15% (~3.2 kg) of body mass they had greater probability of death than females. For low‐dimorphic species like roe deer, these findings raise new considerations about the role of sexual dimorphism in feed intake efficiency.
Ear mite infection restructures otic microbial networks in conservation–reliant Santa Catalina Island foxes (Urocyon littoralis catalinae)
Authors: Lu Jasmine , Hamblen Emily E. , Brenner Lara J. , King Julie L. , VonHoldt Bridgett M. , DeCandia Alexandra L.
Published: November 2022

Ceruminous gland tumours are highly prevalent in the ear canals of Santa Catalina Island foxes (Urocyon littoralis catalinae). Previous work suggests that tumours may result from a combination of ectoparasites, disruption of the host‐associated microbiome, and host immunopathology. More specifically, ear mite infection has been associated with broad‐scale microbial dysbiosis marked by secondary bacterial infection with the opportunistic pathogen Staphylococcus pseudintermedius. Together, ear mites and S. pseudintermedius probably sustain chronic inflammation and promote conditions suitable for tumour development. In the present study, we expanded upon this framework by constructing otic microbial community networks for mite‐infected and uninfected foxes sampled in 2017–2019. Across sampling years, we observed consistent signatures of microbial dysbiosis in mite‐infected ear canals, including reduced microbial diversity and shifted abundance towards S. pseudintermedius. Network analysis further revealed that mite infection disrupts overall community structure. In mite‐infected networks, interaction strengths between taxa were generally weaker, and numerous subnetworks disappeared altogether. We also found that two strains of S. pseudintermedius connected to the main network, suggesting that multistrain biofilm formation may be occurring. In contrast, S. pseudintermedius is peripheral in the uninfected network, with its only connections including a second strain of S. pseudintermedius and the possible competitor Acinetobacter rhizosphaerae. Finally, the lineup of potential keystone taxa shifted across disease states. Fusobacteria spp., a carcinogenesis‐promoting microbe, assumed a keystone role in the mite‐infected community. Considered together, these findings provide insights into how mite infection may destabilize the microbiome and ultimately contribute to tumour development in this island endemic species.