bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chromosome‐level genome assembly and population genomic analysis provide insights into the genetic diversity and adaption of Schizopygopsis younghusbandi on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: ZHOU Chaowei , ZHOU Yan , XU Luohao , LIU Fei , LEI Luo , GAO He , LI Junting , FU Suxing , DUAN Yuting , TAN Yougang , MAO Weihua , WANG Qiming , ZHOU Rongzhu , XIAO Shijun , LIU Chuan , LIU Haiping
Published: October 2024

The Yarlung Tsangpo River on the Tibetan Plateau provides a unique natural environment for studying fish evolution and ecology. However, the genomes and genetic diversity of plateau fish species have been rarely reported. Schizopygopsis younghusbandi, a highly specialized Schizothoracine species and economically important fish inhabiting the Yarlung Tsangpo River, is threatened by overfishing and biological invasion. Herein, we generated a chromosome‐level genome of S. younghusbandi and whole‐genome resequencing data for 59 individuals from six locations of the river. The results showed that the divergence time between S. younghusbandi and other primitive Schizothoracine species was ∼4.2 Mya, coinciding with the major phase of the Neogene Tibetan uplift. The expanded gene families enriched in DNA integration and replication, ion binding and transport, energy storage, and metabolism likely contribute to the adaption of this species. The S. younghusbandi may have diverged from other highly specialized Schizothoracine species in the Zanda basin during the Pliocene epoch, which underwent major population reduction possibly due to the drastic climate change during the last glacial period. Population analysis indicated that the ancient population might have originated upstream before gradually adapting to evolve into the populations inhabiting the mid‐stream and downstream regions of the Yarlung Tsangpo River. In conclusion, the chromosome‐level genome and population diversity of S. younghusbandi provide valuable genetic resources for the evolution, ecology, and conservation studies of endemic fishes on the Tibetan Plateau.
Changes in flavor profile of vegetable seasonings by innovative drying technologies: A review
Authors: Okonkwo Clinton E. , Onyeaka Helen , Olaniran Abiola F. , Isaac‐Bamgboye Folayemi Janet , Nwaiwu Ogueri , Ukwuru Michael , Adeyanju Adeyemi A. , Nwonuma Charles Obiora , Alejolowo Omokolade Oluwaseyi , Inyinbor Adejumoke A. , Akinsemolu Adenike , Zhou Cunshan
Published: October 2024

Seasonings like garlic, ginger, and scallion provide spicy and masking flavor or aroma in vegetables. However, the method or technique used for drying these spices can affect the flavor profile. Therefore, this review focuses on vegetable seasonings like ginger, garlic, and scallion, the characteristic flavor of fresh and dehydrated vegetable seasoning, and how drying methods (freeze‐drying [FD], convective hot air drying [HAD], infrared drying, microwave drying [MW]), and other recent dryers (swirling fluidized bed [SFB], pulsed‐vacuum dryer, relative humidity‐convective dryer, etc.) affect the flavor profile of the common vegetable seasonings. HAD increases α‐zingiberene, reduces gingerol, and forms β‐citral and citral in fresh ginger. FD increased sesquiterpenes, retained terpenoids, sulfides, and other volatiles in fresh ginger, and did not produce new volatile compounds (VOCs) in garlic. SFB drying better preserves 6‐gingerol than FD and HAD. MW increases trisulfides and cyclic sulfur compounds in garlic. In general, drying, especially thermal drying reduces the VOCs in fresh garlic, ginger, and scallion and causes the formation of new VOCs.
Dynamics of cyanogenic glycosides in apple and plum fruits, products, and byproducts: A concise review
Authors: Kristl Janja , Golenač Lucija Praprotnik , Sem Vilma
Published: October 2024

Apples (Malus domestica) and plums (Prunus domestica) are important fruit crops belonging to the Rosaceae family. The edible parts of fruits and seeds contain phytochemicals; however, the seeds are rich in cyanogenic glycosides (CNGs), which release toxic hydrogen cyanide (HCN) upon the loss of plant cell integrity. This review aims to explore the quantitative and qualitative CNG profiles in apples and plums, focusing on their distribution in different parts of the fruit, changes during fruit development, and environmental impacts on their biosynthesis. It also discusses the intricate dynamics of CNGs in processed fruits and waste‐derived products and the effects of the processing methods on CNG content. There is considerable variation in the CNG content of fruit crops, as well as in its distribution in fruit parts other than seeds and shifts during fruit maturation. Although several studies have attempted to explain this variability by the influence of cultivars and exogenous factors, there is insufficient evidence to draw reliable conclusions. Furthermore, due to the lack of studies, the dynamics of CNGs during the storage of fresh or preserved fruit remains unaddressed. In the context of reusing plum stones from waste to produce distillates, it is recommended to monitor the HCN content in the products during storage, as it can increase significantly over time. Processing methods influence CNG levels, with strategies like seed separation, soaking, and microwave heating showing promise in reducing cyanide (CN−) presence. The insights from this review will provide direction for future detailed research.
Osteoporosis and inflammation: Cause to effect or comorbidity?
Authors: Khoury Majda I.
Published: October 2024

Osteoporosis (OP) was long viewed as an inevitable process of aging, due to an imbalance between osteoclast bone resorbing and osteoblast bone formation function, leading to a negative balance in bone remodeling. This leads to low bone mass and increased bone fragility putting the patient at risk for fracture. While this view still holds, a better understanding disclosed that OP can occur at any age, as a comorbidity or a complication of many diseases and treatments. Differentiation, maturation, and function of osteoclasts and osteoblasts are affected by many factors from different morbidities: endocrine, metabolic, mechanical and inflammatory. Inflammatory diseases are often complicated by a generalized bone loss that subsequently leads to OP. Factors such as glucocorticoid treatment, immobilization, malnutrition, and insufficient intake of vitamin D play a role. However, the inflammatory process itself is involved and the resulting bone loss is termed immune‐mediated bone loss. Experiments on animals and on humans, in addition to clinical studies, shed light on the role of inflammation in OP.
Food and fraud: On the Codfather and harvest mislabeling
Authors: DePiper Geret , Holzer Jorge
Published: October 2024

We study incentives to mislabel output in multispecies fisheries managed by tradeable catch shares. Firms can save quota costs by misreporting species harvested, as seen in criminal proceedings against the Codfather. We show that price elasticities for the abundant species reported in the cheating will be higher for compliant than non‐compliant firms. Using data from the New England groundfish fishery, we test this prediction using a latent class hedonic price equation to identify compliant versus non‐compliant firms. We then estimate multi‐output technologies for compliant and noncompliant firms to identify differences in substitution possibilities. Our empirical results align with theoretical expectations and are robust to placebo tests.
Exploratory analysis of blood alcohol concentration‐related technology use and drinking outcomes among young adults
Authors: Wilson Sayre E. , Lavoie Hannah A. , Berey Benjamin L. , Frohe Tessa , Rowland Bonnie H. P. , Hone Liana S. E. , Leeman Robert F.
Published: October 2024

Background

Mobile health (mHealth) technology use may reduce alcohol use and related negative consequences; however, little is known about its efficacy without prompting from researchers or pay‐per‐use. This exploratory analysis assessed relationships between mHealth technology use frequency and alcohol‐use outcomes.

Methods

Young adults who drink heavily (N = 97, Mage = 23, 51% male, 64% non‐Hispanic White, Mdrinks/week = 21) had the option to use three mHealth technologies (breathalyzer device/app, blood alcohol content estimator app, drink counting via text message) while drinking for 2 weeks. Relationships between alcohol‐related outcomes and any, multiple, and specific mHealth technology use across study days and drinking days were evaluated via bivariate correlations and multiple regressions.

Results

Participants used one or more mHealth technologies on approximately 68% of drinking days (33% of field days), with multiple technologies used on 34% of drinking days. Bivariate correlations revealed that a higher percentage of study days with any mHealth technology use was related to higher mean weekly drinks. However, a higher percentage of drinking days with any mHealth technology use was related to lower mean weekly drinks, percent of heavy and high‐intensity drinking days, and negative consequences. There were several significant, inverse correlations between alcohol variables and using the mHealth technologies that provided personalized feedback. Multiple regression analyses (holding sex and baseline alcohol variables constant) indicated that a higher percentage of drinking days with any mHealth technology use was related to lower mean weekly drinks and lower percentage of heavy drinking days.

Conclusions

Using mHealth technologies to moderate drinking without direct prompting from the research team or per‐use incentives was related to less overall alcohol use and heavy drinking. This indicates potential real‐world engagement with mHealth apps to assist with in‐the‐moment drinking. Normalizing mHealth technology use during drinking could help curb the public health crisis around harmful alcohol use in young adult populations.
Provision and outcomes of publicly funded bariatric surgery in a metropolitan versus a provincial population of New Zealand
Authors: Witcomb Cahill Henry , McGuinness Matthew , Struthers Jamie , Bissett Ian , Harmston Christopher
Published: October 2024

Background

Obesity is an important health problem worldwide. The prevalence of obesity in Aotearoa New Zealand (AoNZ) is the third highest amongst OECD countries. Previous studies have demonstrated inequity in the provision of bariatric and metabolic surgery (BMS) across AoNZ, but detailed data regarding patients and surgical outcomes is lacking. The aim of this study is to examine the rates and outcomes of BMS between patients domiciled in a metropolitan versus provincial area in AoNZ.

Methods

A 5‐year retrospective observational cohort study of all patients who received BMS domiciled in a metropolitan or a provincial area in the Northern region of AoNZ was performed. Interrogation of patient electronic medical records and clinical notes was performed to collect the required baseline characteristics, secondary outcome measure data and confirm domicile.

Results

The rate of BMS was 6.1 times higher in the population with class III obesity domiciled in the metropolitan versus the provincial population. Patients in the metropolitan area were less obese, had lower rates of diabetes and had a wider range of procedures performed. Māori were underrepresented in both cohorts. There was a higher resolution of diabetes in the provincial patients.

Conclusion

This study has highlighted significant differences in the rate, type and outcomes of BMS between a metropolitan and provincial area in the Northern region of AoNZ. This represents a significant health inequity. Changes in national and regional policies are needed to ensure equitable care for patients with obesity in AoNZ.
All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy: How and when supervisor bottom‐line mentality hinders employee creativity
Authors: Zhu Xiumei , Yang Mengxi , Qu Yuanmei (Elly) , Li Yixuan , Yang Mingjun
Published: October 2024

Based on the conservation of resources theory, this study investigates how and when supervisor bottom‐line mentality (i.e., one‐dimensional thinking that exclusively focuses on economic bottom‐line goals to the neglect of competing priorities) relates to employee creativity. We propose that supervisor bottom‐line mentality reduces employee psychological availability, resulting in decreased employee creativity. Additionally, psychological detachment, which allows employees to recover from job strain and to regain physical energy and psychological resources, serves as a buffer that weakens the indirect negative relationship between supervisor bottom‐line mentality and employee creativity through psychological availability. Empirical analyses using time‐lagged data from 540 employees of a hospital in eastern China (sample A) and 306 academic graduate students in Chinese universities (sample B) support all hypotheses. Theoretical and practical implications are discussed.
Prognostic impact of nodal involvement in Waldenström macroglobulinaemia
Authors: Østergaard Simon , Munksgaard Lars , Hammer Troels , Pedersen Mette Ø. , Nielsen Torsten H. , Gjerdrum Lise Mette R.
Published: October 2024

The clinical and prognostic implications of nodal involvement (NI) in Waldenström macroglobulinaemia (WM) are largely unknown. In this study, we explored the impact of NI on clinical presentation and outcome in a population‐based cohort of 469 patients with WM, consecutively diagnosed between 2000 and 2022. NI was detected in 34% of patients and was associated with symptomatic disease, adverse prognostic factors, an increased risk of transformation, and lymphoma‐related death. Our findings indicate that NI is of prognostic significance in WM, suggesting a need for enhanced surveillance in these patients.
The ecological and evolutionary dynamics of inselbergs
Authors: Vanschoenwinkel Bram , de Paula Luiza F.A. , Snoeks Joren M. , Van der Stocken Tom , Buschke Falko T. , Porembski Stefan , Silveira Fernando A.O.
Published: October 2024

Islands are fundamental model systems in ecology, biogeography, and evolutionary biology. However, terrestrial islands, unlike their aquatic counterparts, have received comparatively less attention. Among these land islands, inselbergs (i.e. isolated rock outcrops with diverse lithologies and a modest topographical prominence) stand out as iconic examples distributed worldwide across global biomes. Due to their durable lithology, inselbergs change slowly, persisting for tens of millions of years. In this review, we propose a biological definition for inselbergs that captures three fundamental characteristics of inselbergs from the perspective of biota. These are old age, isolation and the presence of unique microhabitats that are rare or absent in the surrounding matrix, fostering distinct communities often with unique and endemic biota. We synthesise the state of the art and formulate a set of testable hypotheses to deepen our understanding of the origins and maintenance of diversity on inselbergs, which are increasingly exposed to anthropogenic threats. By offering different habitats compared to the surrounding habitat matrix (e.g. moist microhabitats in dryland landscapes and xeric environments in humid tropical landscapes), inselbergs may allow specific lineages to thrive beyond their typical geographical limits. Particularly in drylands and degraded landscapes, inselbergs may not just provide different habitats but also act as ecological refuges or evolutionary refugia by providing a wider range of potential microhabitats than the surrounding matrix, enhancing resilience and promoting regional biodiversity. The central role of the matrix ensures that the ecological and evolutionary dynamics of inselbergs differ from those of true islands such as oceanic islands. Given that inselberg biota coexist within a terrestrial matrix, interactions between inselberg and matrix populations impact each other significantly. Over evolutionary timescales, matrix species may contract to inselberg refugia, preserving lineages while cycles of isolation and reconnection may drive speciation via a species pump. Although inselberg biodiversity has been studied predominantly from an island biogeography perspective, we argue that depending on the spatial scale, habitat specificity and mobility of the organisms considered, a range of different theories and paradigms can help explain the biogeography and local distribution patterns of different taxonomic and functional groups of inselberg species.
MEF2C Alleviates Postoperative Cognitive Dysfunction by Repressing Ferroptosis
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Wu Zankai , Bu Xueshan , Peng Xuan , Zhou Qin , Song Wenqin , Gao Wenwei , Wang Wei , Xia Zhongyuan
Published: October 2024

Background

Ferroptosis, a form of programmed cell death featured by lipid peroxidation, has been proposed as a potential etiology for postoperative cognitive dysfunction (POCD). Myocyte‐specific enhancer factor 2C (MEF2C), a transcription factor expressed in various brain cell types, has been implicated in cognitive disorders. This study sought to ascertain whether MEF2C governs postoperative cognitive capacity by affecting ferroptosis.

Methods

Transcriptomic analysis of public data was used to identify MEF2C as a candidate differentially expressed gene in the hippocampus of POCD mice. The POCD mouse model was established via aseptic laparotomy under isoflurane anesthesia after treatment with recombinant adeno‐associated virus 9 (AAV9)‐mediated overexpression of MEF2C and/or the glutathione peroxidase 4 (GPX4) inhibitor RSL3. Cognitive performance, Nissl staining, and ferroptosis‐related parameters were assessed. Dual‐luciferase reporter gene assays and chromatin immunoprecipitation assays were implemented to elucidate the mechanism by which MEF2C transcriptionally activates GPX4.

Results

MEF2C mRNA and protein levels decreased in the mouse hippocampus following anesthesia and surgery. MEF2C overexpression ameliorated postoperative memory decline, hindered lipid peroxidation and iron accumulation, and enhanced antioxidant capacity, which were reversed by RSL3. Additionally, MEF2C was found to directly bind to the Gpx4 promoter and activate its transcription.

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that MEF2C may be a promising therapeutic target for POCD through its negative modulation of ferroptosis.
Prevalence of stimulant use and the role of opioid agonist treatment among people who inject drugs in France: Results from the COSINUS cohort study
Authors: Roux Perrine , Faye Aissatou , Sagaon‐Teyssier Luis , Donadille Cécile , Briand Madrid Laélia , Carrieri Maria Patrizia , Maradan Gwenaelle , Jauffret‐Roustide Marie , Lalanne Laurence , Auriacombe Marc ,   the COSINUS study group
Published: October 2024

Introduction

The co‐use of stimulants and opioids, including opioid agonist treatment (OAT), is very prevalent worldwide. A large body of data exists on the association between stimulant use and its health complications, and on OAT effectiveness among people with opioid use disorder. However, few data exist on stimulant‐opioid co‐use among people receiving OAT. Using data from the COSINUS cohort study, we investigated the association between the type of OAT and problematic stimulant use among persons who inject drugs (PWID).

Methods

COSINUS is a 12‐month French cohort study of 665 PWID. Data were collected in face‐to‐face interviews at enrolment, at 6 and 12 months. We defined problematic stimulant use as daily use of and/or injecting stimulants. We used Bayesian model averaging (BMA) to identify factors associated with problematic stimulant use.

Results

At baseline, 76% (n = 505) of the participants reported problematic stimulant use. The optimal model from the BMA estimation showed that, after adjusting on social precarity and daily injection, participants on prescribed morphine sulfate as an OAT (compared with methadone) and those who use daily unprescribed buprenorphine were less likely to report problematic stimulant use.

Discussion and Conclusions

Our work highlights the high prevalence of problematic stimulant use among PWID in France but also the potential association between the type of OAT taken and stimulant use, by suggesting a protective effect of morphine sulfate on stimulant use. Since it has a higher intrinsic activity than other opioids, PWID on this OAT may be less interested in stimulants. Our findings warrant further investigation in clinical studies.
Identifying Gaps in the Protection of Mediterranean Seagrass Habitats Using Network‐Based Prioritisation
Authors: Baldan Damiano , Chauvier‐Mendes Yohann , Gianni Fabrizio , Cossarini Gianpiero , Bandelj Vinko
Published: October 2024

Aim

Seagrass meadows represent a key marine ecosystem owing to the significant biodiversity they host. Protection actions are often implemented without considering connectivity between habitats. In this article, we project and prioritise Mediterranean seagrass habitats (Posidonia oceanica and Cymodocea nodosa) based on their potential as sources/retention and stepping stones for dispersal propagules of the associated biotic communities. We use this information to identify gaps in the protection of highly ranked habitats.

Location

Mediterranean Sea.

Methods

We related seagrass observations with marine environmental predictors to run species distribution models and infer the distribution of Mediterranean seagrasses. We then used a network‐based approach (CONEFOR) to rank patches of seagrass suitable areas based on their contribution to the seascape in terms of patch area, potential as source/retention of propagules and stepping stone. Finally, by overlaying our ranking with the spatial distribution of marine protected areas (MPAs), we identified potential gaps in the protection of important seagrass habitats across the Mediterranean and its basins.

Results

Most of the identified patches of seagrass suitable areas are not included in MPAs, only reaching a maximum protection coverage of ~50% in the Northwestern Mediterranean. Relatively few patches contribute disproportionately to connectivity, but top‐ranked habitat patches are not included within the existing MPAs network, both at the Mediterranean scale and for most basins. The largest gaps for the source/sink role are in the Aegean and Ionian Sea, and largest gaps for the stepping stone role are in the Adriatic, Ionian and Tyrrhenian Sea.

Main Conclusions

Our results suggest that the current MPAs network fails to protect highly relevant patches of seagrass suitable areas in most of the Mediterranean basins. However, this gap could be filled by a few well‐placed MPAs. Overall, we provide novel insights for the identification of key habitats and planning novel coastal MPAs in the region.
Early Caregiver Predictability Shapes Neural Indices of Statistical Learning Later in Infancy
Authors: Forest Tess Allegra , McCormick Sarah A. , Davel Lauren , Mlandu Nwabisa , Zieff Michal R. ,   Khula South Africa Data Collection Team, Amso Dima , Donald Kirsty A. , Gabard‐Durnam Laurel Joy
Published: October 2024

Caregivers play an outsized role in shaping early life experiences and development, but we often lack mechanistic insight into how exactly caregiver behavior scaffolds the neurodevelopment of specific learning processes. Here, we capitalized on the fact that caregivers differ in how predictable their behavior is to ask if infants’ early environmental input shapes their brains’ later ability to learn about predictable information. As part of an ongoing longitudinal study in South Africa, we recorded naturalistic, dyadic interactions between 103 (46 females and 57 males) infants and their primary caregivers at 3–6 months of age, from which we calculated the predictability of caregivers’ behavior, following caregiver vocalization and overall. When the same infants were 6–12‐months‐old they participated in an auditory statistical learning task during EEG. We found evidence of learning‐related change in infants’ neural responses to predictable information during the statistical learning task. The magnitude of statistical learning‐related change in infants’ EEG responses was associated with the predictability of their caregiver's vocalizations several months earlier, such that infants with more predictable caregiver vocalization patterns showed more evidence of statistical learning later in the first year of life. These results suggest that early experiences with caregiver predictability influence learning, providing support for the hypothesis that the neurodevelopment of core learning and memory systems is closely tied to infants’ experiences during key developmental windows.
Ten‐year clinical outcomes after drug‐eluting stents implantation according to clinical presentation—Insights from the DECADE cooperation
Authors: Starnecker Fabian , Coughlan J. J. , Jensen Lisette Okkels , Bär Sarah , Kufner Sebastian , Brugaletta Salvatore , Räber Lorenz , Maeng Michael , Ortega‐Paz Luis , Heg Dik , Laugwitz Karl‐Ludwig , Sabaté Manel , Windecker Stephan , Kastrati Adnan , Olesen Kevin Kris Warnakula , Cassese Salvatore
Published: October 2024

Background

Investigations of very long‐term outcomes after percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) with drug‐eluting stents (DES) according to clinical presentation are scarce. Here, we investigated the 10‐year clinical outcomes of patients undergoing DES‐PCI according to clinical presentation.

Methods

Patient‐level data from five randomized trials with 10‐year follow‐up after DES‐PCI were pooled. Patients were dichotomized into acute coronary syndrome (ACS) or chronic coronary syndrome (CCS) groups as per clinical presentation. The primary outcome was all‐cause death. Secondary outcomes were cardiovascular death, myocardial infarction (MI), definite stent thrombosis (ST) and repeat revascularization involving the target lesion (TLR), target vessel (TVR) or non‐target vessel (nTVR).

Results

Of the 9700 patients included in this analysis, 4557 presented with ACS and 5143 with CCS. Compared with CCS patients, ACS patients had a higher risk of all‐cause death and nTVR in the first year, but comparable risk thereafter. In addition, ACS patients had a higher risk of MI [adjusted hazard ratio 1.21, 95% confidence interval (1.04–1.41)] and definite ST [adjusted hazard ratio 1.48, 95% confidence interval (1.14–1.92)], while the risk of TLR and TVR was not significantly different up to 10‐year follow‐up.

Conclusions

Compared to CCS patients, ACS patients treated with PCI and DES implantation have an increased risk of all‐cause death and repeat revascularization of remote vessels up to 1 year, with no significant differences thereafter and up to 10‐year follow‐up. ACS patients have a consistently higher risk of MI and definite ST. Whether these differences persist with current antithrombotic and secondary prevention therapies requires further investigation.
Comments on Macdonald, What Would Be Different
Authors: Carman Taylor
Published: October 2024

Iain Macdonald suggests that, in spite of their differences, Adorno and Heidegger are alike in advancing what he calls critiques of actuality and “models of redemptive possibility.” I argue that that similarity is superficial in light of the difference between their conceptions of actuality and possibility. For Adorno, as for the metaphysical tradition since Aristotle, possibility and necessity are defined in terms of actuality. The privileging of actuality, Heidegger maintains, foregrounds entities and obscures the question of being.
Phenology Across Scales: An Intercontinental Analysis of Leaf‐Out Dates in Temperate Deciduous Tree Communities
Authors: Delpierre Nicolas , Garnier Suzon , Treuil‐Dussouet Hugo , Hufkens Koen , Lin Jianhong , Beier Colin , Bell Michael , Berveiller Daniel , Cuntz Matthias , Curioni Giulio , Dahlin Kyla , Denham Sander O. , Desai Ankur R. , Domec Jean‐Christophe , Hart Kris M. , Ibrom Andreas , Joetzjer Emilie , King John , Klosterhalfen Anne , Koebsch Franziska , McHale Patrick , Morfin Alexandre , Munger J. William , Noormets Asko , Pilegaard Kim , Pohl Felix , Rebmann Corinna , Richardson Andrew D. , Rothstein David , Schwartz Mark D. , Wilkinson Matthew , Soudani Kamel
Published: October 2024

Aim

To quantify the intra‐community variability of leaf‐out (ICVLo) among dominant trees in temperate deciduous forests, assess its links with specific and phylogenetic diversity, identify its environmental drivers and deduce its ecological consequences with regard to radiation received and exposure to late frost.

Location

Eastern North America (ENA) and Europe (EUR).

Time Period

2009–2022.

Major Taxa Studied

Temperate deciduous forest trees.

Methods

We developed an approach to quantify ICVLo through the analysis of RGB images taken from phenological cameras. We related ICVLo to species richness, phylogenetic diversity and environmental conditions. We quantified the intra‐community variability of the amount of radiation received and of exposure to late frost.

Results

Leaf‐out occurred over a longer time interval in ENA than in EUR. The sensitivity of leaf‐out to temperature was identical in both regions (−3.4 days per °C). The distributions of ICVLo were similar in EUR and ENA forests, despite the latter being more species‐rich and phylogenetically diverse. In both regions, cooler conditions and an earlier occurrence of leaf‐out resulted in higher ICVLo. ICVLo resulted in ca. 8% difference of radiation received from leaf‐out to September among individual trees. Forest communities in ENA had shorter safety margins as regards the exposure to late frosts, and were actually more frequently exposed to late frosts.

Main Conclusions

We conducted the first intercontinental analysis of the variability of leaf‐out at the scale of tree communities. North American and European forests showed similar ICVLo, in spite of their differences in terms of species richness and phylogenetic diversity, highlighting the relevance of environmental controls on ICVLo. We quantified two ecological implications of ICVLo (difference in terms of radiation received and exposure to late frost), which should be explored in the context of ongoing climate change, which affects trees differently according to their phenological niche.
Stakeholder Consultation to Establish Research Priorities for Specialist Dementia Nursing in the United Kingdom
Authors: Wolverson Emma , Pepper Amy , Dening Karen Harrison
Published: October 2024

Introduction

In the United Kingdom, there are a growing number of specialist dementia nurses called Admiral Nurses. Admiral Nurses, supported in their professional development and clinical supervision by the charity Dementia UK, work with families affected by dementia using a relationship‐centred approach. Given the growing need for this type of support, Dementia UK is committed to research that will expand the evidence base for Admiral Nursing. This article describes a stakeholder consultation to identify research priorities for Admiral Nursing for the next 3 years (2023–2026).

Methods

We adopted a participatory approach using an adapted Nominal Group Technique and priority‐setting workshop. All elements of the process were designed in consultation with a steering group comprising a range of stakeholders, including people with dementia, carers, Admiral Nurses, Dementia UK staff and researchers. Stakeholders were identified as those who were likely to be affected by or interested in the emerging research priorities. Nominal groups were held both face‐to‐face and online. A total of 144 people shared their research priorities. Data generated through each nominal group were thematically analysed and then ranked in order of priority.

Results

Four themes reflecting research priority areas were taken to a priority‐setting workshop for consideration. This resulted in three research priorities for Admiral Nursing: (1) people with dementia who live alone and carers who provide support from a distance; (2) people living with young onset and rarer dementia and their families; and (3) people living with multiple health conditions alongside dementia, including mental health problems. Risk, diversity and the effectiveness of Admiral Nursing were strands that ran throughout these themes.

Conclusions

We identified shared research priorities for Admiral Nursing using a rigorous, consensus‐driven approach involving key stakeholders. These priorities reflect a desire to ensure that Admiral Nursing services reach the most vulnerable people living with dementia and their families and respond to the widening health and social care inequalities faced by this group.

Patient and Public Contribution

People with dementia and carers were involved in the design of this process as members of our steering group and through consultation on our initial plans with Dementia UK's Lived Experience Advisory Panel (LEAP). People living with dementia and carers also participated in consultation groups to share their views on research priorities. All stakeholders were invited to share feedback on the themes as part of the analysis and interpretation of the priorities, and a meeting was held with LEAP to discuss the emerging priorities.
Winners and losers: Class dynamics and social protection in Pakistan
Authors: Mumtaz Zahid , Roelen Keetie
Published: October 2024

This study responds to the recent call in the literature for the interrogation and understanding of how social protection is accessed and distributed among various groups and classes of society. It explores who stands to win and lose from social protection through the lens of social class using the case study of Pakistan, where the elite class holds significant sway over decision‐making. Using a unique mixed methods approach, this study offers a two‐fold contribution: First, it applies cluster analysis to group households based on their socioeconomic demographics, with clusters serving as proxies for class and thereby giving unique insight into class composition in Pakistan. Second, it provides analysis of access to and experiences with social protection of households in different classes. The study concludes that social protection in Pakistan is insufficient in reaching and aiding lower‐class households. Instead, it predominantly benefits the wealthy, reinforcing a cycle of privilege and disadvantage among different socioeconomic classes. This study contributes to the construction of knowledge on how concentration of power within an elite group leads to resource allocation that perpetuates existing inequalities, hinders social progress and amplifies challenges faced by the lower classes.
Co‐creation and evaluation of an algorithm for the development of a mobile application for wound care among new graduate nurses: A mixed methods study
Authors: Gagnon Julie , Chartrand Julie , Probst Sebastian , Maillet Éric , Reynolds Emily , Lalonde Michelle
Published: October 2024

Chronic wounds are a growing concern due to aging populations, sedentary lifestyles and increasing rates of obesity and chronic diseases. The impact of such wounds is felt worldwide, posing a considerable clinical, environmental and socioeconomic challenge and impacting the quality of life. The increasing complexity of care requires a holistic approach, along with extensive knowledge and skills. The challenge experienced by health‐care professionals is particularly significant for newly graduate nurses, who face a gap between theory and practice. Digital tools, such as mobile applications, can support wound care by facilitating more precise assessments, early treatment, complication prevention and better outcomes. They also aid in clinical decision‐making and improve healthcare delivery in remote areas. Several mobile applications have emerged to enhance wound care. However, there are no applications dedicated to newly graduate nurses. The aim of this study was to co‐create and evaluate an algorithm for the development of a wound care mobile application supporting clinical decisions for new graduate nurses. The development of this mobile application is envisioned to improve knowledge application and facilitate evidence‐based practice. This study is part of a multiphase project that adopted a pragmatic epistemological approach, using the ‘Knowledge‐to‐Action’ conceptual model and Duchscher's Stages of Transition Theory. Following a scoping review, an expert consensus, and stakeholder meetings, this study was pursued through a sequential exploratory mixed methods design carried out in two phases. In the initial phase, 21 participants engaged in semi‐structured focus groups to explore their needs regarding clinical decision support in wound care, explore their perceptions of the future mobile application's content and identify and categorize essential components. Through descriptive analysis, five overarching themes emerged, serving as guiding principles for conceptual data model development and refinement. These findings confirmed the significance of integrating a comprehensive glossary complemented by photos, ensuring compatibility between the mobile application and existing documentation systems, and providing quick access to information to avoid burdening work routines. Subsequently, the algorithm was created from the qualitative data collected. The second phase involved presenting an online SurveyMonkey® questionnaire to 34 participants who were not part of the initial phase to quantitatively measure the usability of this algorithm among future users. This phase revealed very positive feedback regarding the usability [score of 6.33 (±0.19) on a scale of 1–7], which reinforces its quality. The technology maturation process can now continue with the development of a prototype and subsequent validation in a laboratory setting.
A randomised controlled phase II trial to examine the feasibility of using hyper‐oxygenated fatty acids (HOFA) to prevent facial pressure injuries from medical devices among adults admitted to intensive care—A research protocol
Authors: Hunt Leanne , Ingleman Jessica , Brennen Kathleen , Armstrong Karyn , Hazell Mariepaz , Keith Naomi , Bickford Brittany , Sanchez David , Khalil Souti , Geering Samara , Sigdel Sabnam Acharya , Skaria Santhosh , Prabhakaran Sreeranjini , Lynch Joan , Alexandrou Evan , Drury Peta , Tran Thach , Frost Steven A.
Published: October 2024

One in three patients admitted to intensive care will sustain a pressure injury (PI) from a medical device. These injuries are painful and when on the face, head or neck they can result in permanent disfigurement. Preliminary evidence of the efficacy of hyper‐oxygenated fatty acids (HOFAs) to prevent facial pressure injuries from medical devices is promising; however, the feasibility of incorporating HOFAs into current standard care to prevent PI from a medical device of the face, head and neck has not been extensively explored. It is intended that the findings from this phase II feasibility study will inform the design of a larger phase III trial, by addressing two primary aims: (1) to assess the feasibility of incorporating HOFAs into standard care to prevent device‐related pressure ulcers of the skin associated with the face, head and neck assess the feasibility and (2) efficacy preliminary effectiveness of HOFA. This feasibility study is an investigator‐initiated mixed method study incorporating a multi‐centre randomised controlled trial of using HOFAs as an adjunct to standard pressure injury prevention and care, compared with standard care alone to prevent facial, head or neck from medical devices among adults admitted to intensive care. The primary outcome of interest is the incidence of facial, head or neck pressure injuries during the first 14 days in intensive care. Secondary outcomes include PI staging, medical device exposure and intensive care and hospital outcomes. The primary analysis will be undertaken using Cox's Proportional Hazards model, and due to the exploratory nature of this phase II trial, efficacy will be based on a one‐sided p‐value for superiority set at 0.10. Type I and Type II error rates are set at 20%; therefore, a total sample size of 196 study participants is planned. To explore the feasibility of incorporating HOFA into usual care and to design a larger phase III trial, we will aim to interview between 10 and 20 nurses across participating intensive care unit sites. Pressure injuries of the face, head or neck from medical devices, among adults admitted to intensive care, are considered preventable. This phase II study will investigate the feasibility and efficacy of HOFAs as an adjunct to standard care. Importantly, we aim to inform the development of a larger phase III trial.
Advancements in seawater immersion wound management: Current treatments and innovations
Authors: Rao Devika , Kumar Praveen , Prabhu Vijendra
Published: October 2024

With advancements in naval warfare, the number and severity of seawater injuries have skyrocketed, necessitating effective seawater immersion (SWI) wound management. The unique marine pathogens, salinity, low temperature and alkalinity of seawater are the main environmental factors that can influence SWI wound healing. The current treatment strategy for SWI wounds follows a standard protocol based on terrestrial wound conditions, neglecting seawater conditions. The key requirements for ideal SWI treatment include good adhesion to the wound surface to minimize further exposure to seawater, enhanced wound healing properties to minimize wound healing time and antibacterial properties to prevent infections from marine pathogens. Current SWI wound‐specific treatments range from elaborate techniques like vacuum‐sealed drainage and vacuum‐assisted closure for severe blast injuries to simple application of hydrogels or collagen dressings for minor injuries. This review discusses the current status and development of various treatment modalities for SWI wounds. The development of these treatment strategies and an understanding of their mechanisms of action make us better prepared to manage and treat SWI injuries.
Effect of early cyclosporine levels on kidney allograft rejection
Authors: Johnson E. M. , Canafax D. M. , Gillingham K. J. , Humar A. , Pandian K. , Kerr S. R. , Najarian J. S. , Matas A. J.
Published: October 2024

Acute rejection is the greatest risk factor for development of biopsy‐proven chronic rejection and late kidney allograft loss. We previously noted that low cyclosporine (CSA) levels were a risk factor for early acute rejection in pediatric recipients (1). In our current study, we used logistic regression to identify risk factors for acute rejection in 726 adult kidney transplant recipients on triple therapy (prednisone, azathioprine, CSA). Variables considered for logistic regression analysis were donor organ source (cadaver vs. living), degree of HLA mismatch (1 to 6 vs. O antigen mismatch), transplant number (primary vs. retransplant), CsA levels (< 125 vs. ≥ 125 ng/ml, < 150 ng/ml vs. ≥ 150 ng/ml, and < 175 vs. ≥ 175 ng/ml), and acute rejection episodes (0 vs. ≥ 1). Of 726 recipients, 401 (55%) received cadaver kidneys; 325 (45%), living related. Overall, 572 (79%) had a primary transplant; 154 (21%), a retransplant. The vast majority of acute rejection episodes occurred within the first 2 months posttransplant; 68% of recipients had no acute rejection episodes by 2 months and 58% had none by 60 months posttransplant.

Logistic regression analysis revealed that a cadaver donor kidney (vs. living) (p = 0.004), a 1 to 6 antigen mismatch (vs. 0 mismatch) (p = 0.001), and CsA levels < 150 ng/ml (vs. ≥ 150 ng/ml) correlated with biopsy‐proven acute rejection. The correlation for CsA levels < 150 ng/ml (vs. ≥ 150 ng/ml) held true for levels at 1 wk (p < 0.05), 1 month (p = 0.0001), 2 months (p = 0.01), and 3 months (p = 0.02) posttransplant. Similar correlation was found for CsA levels < 125 ng/ml (vs. 2 125 ng/ml) and < 175 ng/ ml (vs. 175 ng/ml).

Comparative analyses were made (by Chi‐square) of acute and chronic rejection rates when recipients were divided into 3 groups by CsA level (<125 ng/ml, 125 to < 150 ng/ml, and ≥ 150 ng/ml). At each time point (1) wk, 2 wk, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months), CsA levels < 125 ng/ml (vs. ≥ 125 to < 150 ng/ml and ≥ 150 ng/ml) were associated with the greatest increased risk of acute rejection ‐ for both cadaver and living related recipients (all p<0.05). CsA levels < 125 ng/ml at each time point (1 wk, 2 wk, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months) were also associated with a significantly increased risk of chronic rejection (all p<0.001). The incidence of both acute and chronic rejection was reduced in the group with CsA levels ≥ 125 to < 150 ng/ml and further reduced in the ≥ 150 ng/ml group. Our data indicate that maintaining CsA levels ≥150 ng/ml as part of triple therapy reduces the incidence of both acute and chronic rejection. Because chronic rejection is the leading cause of late allograft loss, maintaining adequate CsA levels should improve long‐term graft survival. Based on this analysis, we have modified our own immunosuppressive regimens to achieve higher CsA levels earlier posttransplant.
Donor biliary variations: an overlooked problem?
Authors: Nery Jose R. , Fragulidis Georgios P. , Scagnelli Thomas , Weppler Deborah , Webb Marc G. , Khan Mohammed F. , Tzakis Andreas G.
Published: October 2024

Documented causes of biliary complications following orthotopic liver transplantation have been related to technical imperfections or insufficient arterial supply. Although anatomical variations of the extrahepatic biliary system are not infrequent, neither their incidence, surgical management nor possible association with complications have been reported in liver transplantation. At our institution, the global incidence of biliary complications following 357 consecutive liver transplants performed in 324 patients over a 2‐yr period was 15.4% (55/357). Anomalous donor extrahepatic ducts were verified in 10 cases (2.8%) and they were recognized intraoperatively, prior to biliary reconstruction, in 7 cases. Technical complications occurred in 1 of these 7 and in 3 other cases where the anomalous ducts were not identified until later in the postoperative period when serious clinical problems ensued. We herein present a description of these 10 cases, with reference to the techniques employed to manage the anatomical anomalies and to treat complications. As in any hepatobiliary procedure, awareness of possible variations of the extrahepatic biliary system, intraoperative identification of the anomalous ducts and appropriate tailoring of the surgical technique are advisable in order to avoid serious postoperative complications in liver transplantation.