bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Defaunation impacts on the carbon balance of tropical forests
Authors: Brodie Jedediah F. , Bello Carolina , Emer Carine , Galetti Mauro , Luskin Matthew S. , Osuri Anand , Peres Carlos A. , Stoll Annina , Villar Nacho , López Ana‐Benítez
Published: October 2024

The urgent need to mitigate and adapt to climate change necessitates a comprehensive understanding of carbon cycling dynamics. Traditionally, global carbon cycle models have focused on vegetation, but recent research suggests that animals can play a significant role in carbon dynamics under some circumstances, potentially enhancing the effectiveness of nature‐based solutions to mitigate climate change. However, links between animals, plants, and carbon remain unclear. We explored the complex interactions between defaunation and ecosystem carbon in Earth's most biodiverse and carbon‐rich biome, tropical rainforests. Defaunation can change patterns of seed dispersal, granivory, and herbivory in ways that alter tree species composition and, therefore, forest carbon above‐ and belowground. Most studies we reviewed show that defaunation reduces carbon storage 0−26% in the Neo‐ and Afrotropics, primarily via population declines in large‐seeded, animal‐dispersed trees. However, Asian forests are not predicted to experience changes because their high‐carbon trees are wind dispersed. Extrapolating these local effects to entire ecosystems implies losses of ∼1.6 Pg CO2 equivalent across the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and 4−9.2 Pg across the Amazon over 100 years and of ∼14.7−26.3 Pg across the Congo basin over 250 years. In addition to being hard to quantify with precision, the effects of defaunation on ecosystem carbon are highly context dependent; outcomes varied based on the balance between antagonist and mutualist species interactions, abiotic conditions, human pressure, and numerous other factors. A combination of experiments, large‐scale comparative studies, and mechanistic models could help disentangle the effects of defaunation from other anthropogenic forces in the face of the incredible complexity of tropical forest systems. Overall, our synthesis emphasizes the importance of—and inconsistent results when—integrating animal dynamics into carbon cycle models, which is crucial for developing climate change mitigation strategies and effective policies.
Geographic and ecological effects on species richness of liverworts worldwide
Authors: Wang Jian , Qian Hong , Dai Zun , Zhang Jian , Kessler Michael
Published: October 2024

Liverworts are one of the oldest lineages of the extant land plants but the geographic patterns and ecological determinants of their species richness have not yet been studied at a global scale until now. Here, using a comprehensive global database, we find that regional species richness of liverworts in general 1) shows a clear latitudinal diversity pattern, 2) is highest in mountains, presumably reflecting the effects of habitat heterogeneity and the occurrence of cloud forest, 3) is more strongly influenced by contemporary climate than by climate change during the Quaternary, 4) is more strongly affected by precipitation‐related than by temperature‐related variables, reflecting the poikilohydric nature of liverworts and hence their water‐dependence, and 5) is more strongly affected by climate extremes than by climate seasonality. However, we find regional deviations from these general patterns, especially in the Southern Hemisphere where the distinct arrangement of land masses leads to different climatic patterns and thus climate–species richness relationships. Compared with other major land plant lineages, liverworts show the same importance of precipitation‐related factors as ferns, whereas in angiosperms temperature also plays an important role, reflecting the different physiological adaptations of these groups to drought and cold stress, and providing insights into the different evolutionary pathways taken by these lineages.
Sylvia Wynter's Decolonial Philosophy: How Being Human Needs an Origin Story
Authors: Andersson Ingrid
Published: October 2024

In this article, Ingrid Andersson discusses the decolonial philosophy of Sylvia Wynter, with a special focus on addressing her concepts of the hybrid human and origin stories. Andersson shows how Wynter's philosophizing about the being of being human is premised on an entanglement of nature and culture that is on par with the posthuman understanding of the ontological inseparability of matter and discourse. She goes on to interrogate some productive tensions between Wynter's decolonial philosophy and posthumanism by pointing out how Wynter's hybrid human formulates an understanding of human nature that is different in itself and not solely in relation to other nonhuman entities. In the final part of the article, she proposes how we, with Wynter, can devise a pedagogical approach that seeks to counteract harmful taxonomizing practices.
Seasonally Changing Interactions of Species Traits of Termites and Trees Promote Complementarity in Coarse Wood Decomposition
Authors: Guo Chao , Tuo Bin , Seibold Sebastian , Ci Hang , Sai Bi‐Le , Qin Han‐Tang , Yan En‐Rong , Cornelissen Johannes H. C.
Published: October 2024

Complementary resource use by functionally different species may accelerate ecosystem processes. However, how co‐variation in plant traits and animal traits promotes complementarity through temporal plant–animal interactions is poorly understood, even less so in detrital systems, thereby hampering our fundamental understanding of decomposition and carbon turnover. We hypothesised that, in seasonal subtropical forests where termites are major deadwood decomposers, trait complementarity of both termite species and tree species should promote overall deadwood decomposition through different seasons and years. Findings from a four‐year coarse wood decomposition experiment involving 27 tree and 5 termite species support this hypothesis. Phenological and mandibular traits of the two most abundant termite species controlled wood decomposition of tree species differing in wood traits, through the seasons over 4 years, thereby promoting overall deadwood decomposition rates. Our findings indicate that complementarity in functional trait co‐variation in plants and animals plays an important role in carbon cycling.
Third‐Party Affiliation in Domestic Dogs During and After a Human Conflict
Authors: Rial Laura Analía , Cavalli Camila , Dzik Marina Victoria , Bentosela Mariana
Published: October 2024

Several behaviors occur in the aftermath of within‐group conflicts. These include spontaneous affiliation toward the victim from an uninvolved third party. When third‐party affiliations reduce the stress of the victim, this behavior has been defined as consolation. Given the absence of previous reports, the objective of the present study was to evaluate the presence of third‐party post‐conflict affiliation when dogs (Canis lupus familiaris) observe their owners arguing. We carried out two studies varying the intensity and the duration of the dispute. Affiliative behaviors toward each of the owners were registered, as well as stress‐related behaviors. Our findings support the existence of third‐party affiliation from dogs toward their owners during and after a conflict between them, evidenced as higher rates of victim‐directed affiliative behaviors in the experimental condition versus the control, in both studies. Moreover, dogs exhibited more stress‐related behaviors in the experimental condition compared to the control, but only in the second study, which suggests these stimuli were experienced as aversive, even though they were not aimed at the dogs. In addition, in the second study dogs displayed aggressor‐directed behaviors that could be interpreted as appeasement. Finally, there was no evidence that the level of the bond between the dog and each owner acts as a modulator of affiliative behavior. Further studies are required to expand our understanding of these abilities of dogs and its effects on the emotional state of the victim.
Cluster Analysis of Migraine‐associated Symptoms (CAMS) in youth: A retrospective cross‐sectional multicenter study
Authors: Patterson Gentile Carlyn , Szperka Christina L. , Hershey Andrew D.
Published: October 2024

Objective

To conduct a retrospective cross‐sectional multicenter study to validate the relationships between migraine‐associated symptoms.

Background

Symptoms associated with headache—photophobia and phonophobia, nausea, and/or vomiting—are required criteria for migraine diagnosis based on the International Classification of Headache Disorders‐Third Edition (ICHD‐3). However, individuals with migraine report high rates of other symptoms (e.g., lightheadedness, difficulty thinking). We recently completed a single‐center study assessing the relationships between an expanded set of migraine‐associated symptoms.

Methods

A pre‐registered cross‐sectional multicenter retrospective analysis was conducted on standardized questionnaire data of youth ages 6–17 years from two headache registries at pediatric tertiary care centers. Cluster Analysis of Migraine‐associated Symptoms (CAMS) was implemented to assess associations between 11 migraine‐associated symptoms. We explored differences between the two centers, and how CAMS was associated with demographics, including sex and age, and headache burden.

Results

There were 10,721 participants who were 66.5% female and had a median (interquartile range) age of 13 (10–15) years. The first three CAMS dimensions accounted for 46.5% of the variance and were consistent across sites. The first dimension indicated those reporting any migraine‐associated symptoms were likely to report multiple. The second dimension separated symptoms into those included in ICHD‐3 migraine diagnostic criteria and non‐ICHD symptoms (e.g., lightheadedness, difficulty thinking). The third dimension separated sensory hypersensitivity and vestibular symptoms. An abundance of migraine‐associated symptoms correlated with greater headache severity (Spearman's ρ = 0.18, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.17–0.20; small effect size) and disability (ρ = 0.26, 95% CI 0.25–0.28; small effect size). We also observed differences in associated symptoms across age and sex.

Discussion

Associations between an expanded set of migraine‐associated symptoms are informative for headache burden and reveal intriguing changes across child development and sex. We were able to replicate findings across two centers, indicating that these symptom clusters are inherent to migraine.
Impact of Karnofsky performance status on outcomes of patients with severe alcohol‐associated hepatitis: a propensity‐matched analysis
Authors: Kulkarni Anand V. , Venishetty Shantan , Kumar Karan , Gurav Nitish , Albhaisi Somaya , Chhabbra Prateek , Shaik Sameer , Alla Manasa , Iyengar Sowmya , Sharma Mithun , Rao Padaki N. , Arab Juan P. , Reddy Duvvur N.
Published: October 2024

Background and Aims

Severity scores, including the model for end‐stage liver disease (MELD) and discriminant function score, guide the treatment of patients with severe alcohol‐associated hepatitis (AH). We aimed to investigate the impact of functional status on outcomes of patients with AH.

Methods

Medically managed patients (n = 133) with AH from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2022 were included in this prospective study. The objectives were to compare the long‐term survival, recompensation rates, corticosteroid response, incidence of infections, hepatic encephalopathy (HE) and acute kidney injury (AKI) among propensity score‐matched patients with good Karnofsky performance status (KPS) (score ≥50) and poor KPS (score <50) using Kaplan–Meier analysis.

Results

Twenty‐five patients with good KPS were matched with 25 patients with poor KPS and followed up for a median duration of 10 (0.5–33) months. Survival was 76% (19/25; 95% confidence interval (CI), 54.9–90.6) in patients with good KPS compared to 42.3% (11/25; 95% CI, 23.4–63.1) patients with poor KPS (P = 0.001) at 10 months. The recompensation rate was higher in the good KPS group than in the poor KPS group (68% vs 44%; P = 0.04). A higher proportion of patients in the good KPS group (78.9%) than in the poor KPS group (42.8%; P = 0.03) responded to corticosteroids. Survival was lower among non‐responders in the poor KPS group (0% vs 75%; P = 0.01). The proportion of patients who developed infection (36% vs 28%; P = 0.051), HE (36% vs 12%; P = 0.01) and AKI (60% vs 16%; P < 0.001) was higher in patients with poor KPS than in good KPS.

Conclusions

KPS is an important determinant of outcomes in patients with AH, including survival, recompensation, response to corticosteroids and complications.
Patient Experiences of Patient‐Initiated Brief Admission in Psychiatric Care: A Systematic Review
Authors: Värnå Emma , Nederman Jonas , Saliba‐Gustafsson Erika A. , Eckerström Joachim
Published: October 2024

Patient‐initiated brief admission (PIBA) is an innovative psychiatric care intervention that gives patients the autonomy to initiate a short admission (approximately 1–3 days) to psychiatric inpatient care. This intervention is structured around a mutual agreement between the patient and their care provider that outlines the specific structure and content of their care. Unlike regular psychiatric admissions, healthcare professionals do not review the patient's decision for admission during PIBA. Similar interventions have been developed globally to reduce the need for long inpatient admissions and compulsory care by enhancing patient autonomy, promoting active participation in care, and empowering patients to recognise early signs of mental health deterioration. The objective of this systematic review was to explore the experiences of PIBA among individuals with mental health disorders. A systematic review was conducted using qualitative articles sourced from the PubMed, CINAHL, and PsycINFO databases. A total of thirteen original articles were included in the review, encompassing 186 patients. Research demonstrates that PIBA significantly impacts patients' care experiences in various ways. Access to PIBA gives patients the opportunity to take a break from daily stressors, which has proven significant in interrupting the cycle of worsening symptoms and negative thoughts. Furthermore, when the care environment is characterised by trust and respect, patients experience an increased sense of freedom, which contributes to a more effective recovery process. PIBA provides patients with a sense of safety and offers the possibility of a more functional daily life. Healthcare professionals'attitude and care provision also significantly influences patients' experiences. Central to a positive patient experience are a warm reception, attentiveness, and active listening. PIBA can not only change patients' perceptions of healthcare but, more importantly, fosters a transformative view of themselves as active participants in their own well‐being. Knowledgeable healthcare professionals are crucial for the successful implementation of this intervention. By offering dignity and warmth alongside safety, PIBA addresses a critical gap in patient mental health care.
High strength C/Si‒Ni‒C composites fabricated by reaction melt infiltration with Si‒Ni alloy at lower temperature
Authors: Chen Yiming , Zhang Wei , Han Yangjie , Li Song , Xue Rong , Zeng Yuke , Qin Qianhui , Wang Jiping , Xiao Zhichao , Xia Hongyan
Published: October 2024

Silicon‒nickel alloy (Si‒Ni) was first used for fabricating continuous carbon fiber reinforced ceramic matrix composites by reaction melt infiltration process. Based on Si‒Ni phase diagram, 66.7 at.% Si‒Ni was chosen, which has a lower liquidus temperature of 1115°C. The C/Si‒Ni‒C composites were infiltrated at temperature of 1270°C‒1390°C, and the prepared composite consists of C, SiC, NiSi, and NiSi2 phases. The density of the composite is higher than 2.29 g/cm3 and their open porosity is below 3%, indicating the composite was infiltrated completely by the Si‒Ni alloy. The C/Si‒Ni‒C composite exhibits significantly higher flexural strength and fracture toughness compared to the C/C‒SiC composite infiltrated with pure silicon at 1500°C. Specifically, the flexural strength and fracture toughness of the C/Si‒Ni‒C composite infiltrated at 1390°C increase by 140% and 300%, respectively. The improvement of mechanical properties contributed to the low reactivity between silicon‒nickel with carbon fibers, and the lower infiltration temperature, which can reduce degradation of carbon fiber as reinforcement. Moreover, the NiSi2 and NiSi alloy phases in the C/Si‒Ni‒C composite replace the brittle silicon phase in the C/C‒SiC composite, which can obviously enhance the fracture toughness.
The Mediating Role of Health Empowerment in the Relationship Between Social Support and Loneliness Among Nursing Home Residents: A Correlational Study
Authors: Demirel Hüsne , Ayaz‐Alkaya Sultan
Published: October 2024

Background

Loneliness is a significant public health problem due to the physical, cognitive and psychosocial changes that occur with ageing. Social support and empowerment can be particularly important for older people, alleviating loneliness and improving mental well‐being.

Purpose

The present study aimed to investigate the mediating role of health empowerment in the relationship between perceived social support and loneliness among nursing home residents.

Study Design

The study was conducted with a correlational design and reported based on STROBE checklist.

Methods

The study was completed with 277 older adults aged 65 years and over residing in nursing homes. Process Macro Model 4 was conducted to verify the mediating role.

Results

The response rate was 95.6%. Most older adults experienced a feeling of loneliness, and the level of social support and empowerment perceived by most of them was high. The study found a mediating role of health empowerment in the relationship between social support and loneliness. Social support was significantly positively correlated with health empowerment and negatively correlated with loneliness. The significant standardised indirect effect of health empowerment on loneliness evidenced a partial mediating role.

Conclusion

This study concluded that health empowerment has a partial mediating role in the effect of perceived social support and loneliness.

Implications for the Profession and/or Patient Care

Nurses could develop effective strategies for preventing psychosocial problems in nursing home residents. Nurses could contribute significantly as educators, counsellors and leaders in planning interventions to empower older adults.

Impact

By empowering older adults regarding healthcare, nurses could increase their perception of social support, improving mental health by increasing effective coping with loneliness. Nurses could design intervention programmes to increase perceived social support, as well as health empowerment levels, and reduce older adults' loneliness in nursing homes.

Patient or Public Contribution

Older adults completed the instruments.
Old disease—New reflections: Gaucher, immunity, and inflammation
Authors: Şoroğlu Can Veysel , Berkay Ezgi Gizem
Published: October 2024

Gaucher disease (GD) is the most common lysosomal storage disease. It is a multisystemic metabolic disease caused by GBA pathogenic mutations. Although the general symptoms have been known for a long time, new treatment possibilities, the detection of different biomarkers, and innovations in diagnosis and follow‐up have paved the way for further studies. Recent studies have shown that the immune system has become an essential factor associated with disease progression. The role of Gaucher cells in the disease is well characterized. In addition to phagocytic macrophage cells, lymphocytes, complement system, and inflammatory pathway elements are also implicated in GD as they were shown to be the underlying factors causing associated pathologies such as Parkinson's. In this article, the relationship between the GD and the immune system has been examined and reviewed in light of new findings.
The First Standardised Sampling Plan Designed to Scout Dalbulus maidis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) Adults in Corn Crops Using Yellow Sticky Traps
Authors: das Graças do Carmo Daiane , Pinto Cleovan Barbosa , Lopes Pedro Henrique Queiroz , Paes Jhersyka da Silva , de Souza Hugo Daniel Dias , Santos Abraão Almeida , Cecon Paulo Roberto , Sarmento Renato de Almeida , Picanço Marcelo Coutinho
Published: October 2024

The corn leafhopper Dalbulus maidis (Hemiptera: Cicadellidae) is one of the main pests in corn crops causing yield reductions of up to 70%. Dalbulus maidis primarily damages corn by transmitting pathogens. Direct plant damage is caused by sap suction and toxin injection. Sampling corn fields to determine the D. maidis density for decision‐making systems can be challenging due to field size, time and cost. Yellow sticky traps (YST) are commonly employed to determine the presence and density of D. maidis because they are easy to use and allow quick and low‐cost assessment. This study aimed to propose and evaluate a new sampling plan for D. maidis in corn crops using YST. This research was carried out in commercial corn crops in the Brazilian Atlantic Forest and Cerrado biomes for 3 years. The pest density in traps and on plants were moderately (r = 0.54–0.66) and significantly (p < 0.0001) correlated. The density evaluated in the traps showed relative variance of less than 25% and sampling time of up to 2 min per sample unit. The negative binomial distribution was adequate to represent the D. maidis density probability distribution for the YST sampling method with K common (2.8979) among all the fields evaluated. The sampling plan consisted of installing one trap every two hectares. The plan's total cost ranged from US$/ha 0.41 to 0.50, with a total sampling time of up to 2.5 min/ha. We propose this new sampling plan for D. maidis, which is suitable for incorporation into management programmes in corn crops, as it is representative, accurate, fast and low cost.
Fiscal Policy, International Spillovers, and Endogenous Productivity
Authors: KLEIN MATHIAS , LINNEMANN LUDGER
Published: October 2024

The paper presents empirical evidence on the international effects of U.S. fiscal policy from structural vector autoregressions identified through external instruments in a panel setting for the G7 countries. An exogenous increase in U.S. government spending is estimated to produce sizable positive responses of output and consumption in the rest of the G7 countries, both about half as large as their domestic U.S. counterparts, while strongly depreciating the U.S. terms of trade and lowering the U.S. trade balance and short‐run real interest rates. Moreover, fiscal shocks are estimated to have a strongly positive impact on hourly labor productivity in the private sector. We solve a two‐country New Keynesian model in closed form and show that a low cost elasticity of varying technology utilization can simultaneously explain the positive productivity, consumption, and international spillover effects as well as the real depreciation resulting from expansionary U.S. government spending shocks.
Survey Defining Lip Health—Dermatology and Health Care Providers' Perspectives
Authors: Dulai Ajay S. , Ahmad Nabeel , Afzal Nasima , Sivamani Venita A. , Gunt Hemali B. , Egli Caitlin , Sivamani Raja K.
Published: October 2024

Background

There currently exists no consensus on objective features which are relevant in the assessment of overall lip health.

Aims

This study seeks to identify features and factors that are associated with healthy lips. This survey will ultimately enable clinicians to objectively track lip health for clinical evaluations and clinical research.

Methods

An anonymous survey was conducted among allied healthcare professionals in‐person and through email. The survey contained questions designed to assess the importance of features of lip health using a 5‐point Likert scale. Features included lack of lip dryness; even tone or lack of hyperpigmentation; lip smoothness; lip color; lip shine, radiance, or luster; definition of the vermillion border/defined lip contour; lip fullness or plumpness; lack of lip lines; and lip firmness. The final questions prompted respondents to select the top three most important features when assessing lip health and to provide any additional pertinent factors.

Results

A total of 334 responses were received, including board‐certified dermatologists (35.9%), dermatology residents (14.7%), and other healthcare specialties (49.4%). The features most cited were lack of lip dryness (65.8%), lip smoothness (38.4%), even tone or lack of hyperpigmentation (38.1%), definition of the vermillion border/defined lip contour (28.0%). Survey results reveal that lip dryness, lip smoothness, lack of hyperpigmentation, and definition of the vermillion border/defined lip contour were the features most associated with lip health.

Conclusion

The results from this survey will provide a basis for future research in the field of lip health, research, and clinical treatment.
Hospitalisation cost for paediatric osteomyelitis and septic arthritis in New Zealand
Authors: Hunter Sarah , Alexander Zanazir , Crawford Haemish , Te Ao Braden , Selak Vanessa , Mutu‐Grigg John , Lorgelly Paula , Grant Cameron
Published: October 2024

Aim

Hospitalisation rates for paediatric bone and joint infection (BJI) in New Zealand (NZ) are among the highest globally. This study aims to quantify hospitalisation costs of BJI in 2018–2019.

Methods

National hospitalisation data from the NZ Ministry of Health was used to describe costs associated with all paediatric hospitalisations coded for osteomyelitis or septic arthritis in those aged <16 years. Data included age, ethnic group, area level deprivation, diagnosis‐related‐group coding, admission length and cost‐weight. Readmissions up to 24 months following the initial encounter were analysed for associated costs.

Results

More than ten million dollars was spent on hospitalisation for paediatric BJI over the study period (NZ$10 819 474). There were 869 primary hospitalisations and 229 related readmissions. Median length of stay was 7.4 days (95% confidence interval 6.8–7.9). Re‐admission costs were NZ$1 196 640 within 24 months following diagnosis.

Higher median hospitalisation costs occurred for children residing in the most deprived versus least deprived neighbourhoods (NZ$12 126 vs. NZ$9010, P < 0.01). NZ Māori compared with non‐Māori children had longer length of stay (8.4 vs. 6.3 days, P = 0.04), more complex and severe illnesses (53% vs. 17%, P < 0.01), and higher median hospitalisation costs (NZ$11 796 vs. NZ$9581, P = 0.03).

Conclusions

Direct BJI hospitalisation costs in 2018–2019 were NZ$10 819 474 with 11% of costs due to re‐admission. Direct hospitalisation costs for paediatric BJI in NZ vary by deprivation and ethnic group. Illness complexity of paediatric BJI varies by ethnic group. Interventions are needed to reduce incidence and severity of these debilitating infections.
Antioxidant Capacity of Thyme (Thymus vulgaris) Essential Oil and Its Effect on In Vivo Fertility of Rams Subjected to Testicle Heat Stress
Authors: Khnissi Samia , Ben Salem Imène , Bejaoui Bochra , Fattouch Sami , Mustapha Souha ben , Haj‐Kacem Rami , M'Hamdi Naceur , Martin Patrick , Dattena Maria , Lassoued Narjess
Published: October 2024

The detrimental effects of hyperthermia on the testes and the protective effect of thyme essential oil against testicular damage induced by this stress in rams were studied. Twenty‐four rams of the Barbarine breed with an average weight of 62.5 ± 0.3 kg and an average age of 24 ± 0.6 months. The experiment consisted of inducing localized heat stress on the first group of rams by applying heat bags to both testicles of six rams (G s). The second group underwent the same heat stress on the testes but received orally 100 µL/day/animal of thyme essential oil (G s‐he). A positive control did not undergo stress but received thyme essential oil (G he) with the same doses as the (G s‐he) group, and the negative control did not undergo either stress or receive the essential oil of thyme (G c). One hundred twenty‐eight adult ewes of the same breed divided into four groups of 32 ewes were used to study the effect of different treatments on the in vivo ram's fertility. Ewes are synchronized and we have applied natural mating with oestrus control, the reproduction balance sheet is calculated after lambing. The results showed that tests of heat stress (HS) negatively affect semen quality but did not cause infertility. However, neither tests for heat stress nor treatment with thyme EO significantly affected the haematological profile. The study of the effect of heat stress on the testes on fertility in vivo showed a drop in the number of females who were fertilized at the first oestrus and consequently a drop in fertility. However, the rams that suffered the same stress but were treated with EO thymus recorded an improvement in these parameters.
The influence of different extraction indications on the morphological changes in the maxillary sinus: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Wang Meng , Mao Fei‐Fei , Jin Xiao‐Hui , Huang Jia‐Ping , Dai Anna , Ding Pei‐Hui
Published: October 2024

Aims

The comprehensive effects of maxillary posterior tooth extraction on the maxillary sinus (MS) morphology remain to be thoroughly elucidated. This retrospective cohort study aimed at evaluating the influence of different extraction indications on the morphological changes in the MS by utilizing cone‐beam computed tomography (CBCT).

Methods

One hundred and seventy‐eight of maxillary posterior tooth extractions underwent CBCT scans before and after extraction using 3D Slicer software. Parameters such as maxillary sinus pneumatization (MSP, the primary outcome measure), buccal bone height (BBH), palatal bone height (PBH), mucosal thickness (MT), and other anatomical structures were measured for patients undergoing extraction due to periodontitis, periapical lesions, or tooth fracture. Multiple linear regression analysis was employed to assess the effect of extraction indications on the MS.

Results

While the primary outcome, MSP, did not reveal statistically significant differences across various indications for tooth extraction (p > .05), extraction itself resulted in MSP (p < .05). The rate of this pneumatization was influenced by the position of the extraction site (p < .05). Additionally, baseline values of bone height and mucosal thickness showed an inverse correlation with the rate of change in these parameters following tooth extraction (p < .001).

Conclusions

Tooth extraction led to increased pneumatization of the maxillary sinus while simultaneously reducing bone height and mucosal thickness. However, these outcomes were not influenced by the reason for tooth extraction.
Metabolomic fingerprinting of milk fever cows: Pre‐ and postpartum metabolite alterations
Authors: Zwierzchowski Grzegorz , Zhang Guanshi , Tobolski Dawid , Wójcik Roman , Wishart David S. , Ametaj Burim N.
Published: October 2024

Background

Milk fever (MF), a metabolic disorder in dairy cows characterized by low blood calcium concentrations postpartum, is well‐recognized clinically. However, comprehensive data on the alteration of metabolites associated with this condition remains sparse.

Hypothesis

Delineate serum metabolite profiles and metabolic pathways preceding, coinciding with, and after the onset of MF.

Animals

Twenty‐six cows, including 20 healthy cows and 6 cows initially affected by MF. Because of culling, the number of MF‐affected cows decreased to 4 at MF week, +4 weeks, and +8 weeks postpartum.

Methods

A nested case‐control longitudinal study was conducted, with blood samples collected at −8 and −4 weeks prepartum, MF week, and +4 and +8 weeks postpartum. Serum analysis utilized direct injection/liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (DI/LC/MS/MS) techniques.

Results

Key findings included the identification of diverse metabolites such as hexose, amino acids, phosphatidylcholines, lysophosphatidylcholines, and sphingomyelin, which varied between studied groups (P < .05). The most marked metabolic alterations were observed 4 weeks prepartum. In total, 42, 56, 38, 29, and 24 metabolites distinguished the MF group at the respective time points (P < .05). Additionally, 33 metabolic pathways, including amino acid, antioxidant metabolism, fatty acid degradation, and carbohydrate processing, were impacted (P < .05).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Metabolic disruptions in dairy cows begin several weeks before the clinical manifestation of MF and persist up to 8 weeks postpartum. These findings emphasize the complexity of MF, extending beyond only hypocalcemia and indicate the necessity for preemptive monitoring in dairy herd management.
Improvement of gastric disease and ridden horse pain ethogram scores with diet adaptation in sport horses
Authors: Pineau Violaine , ter Woort Fe , Julien Félicie , Vernant Margaux , Lambey Sandrine , Hébert Camille , Hanne‐Poujade Sandrine , Westergren Victor , van Erck‐Westergren Emmanuelle
Published: October 2024

Background

Gastric disease is highly prevalent in sport horses and may lead to poor performance, cause behavioral changes and impact welfare.

Hypothesis

Assess whether diet affects gastric disease and pain expression during riding, and whether it has an impact on physiological and locomotor variables during an exercise test, including jumps.

Animals

Nine healthy show‐jumping Warmbloods trained at the same stable.

Methods

Prospective observational cohort study. The horses receiving a pelleted diet, high in sugar and starch (>30%), were examined at T0 and after 12 weeks (T12) of changing to a cooked, muesli‐type low‐starch (11%) diet. Each time, the horses underwent a standardized exercise test (SET) and a ridden pain score (Ridden Horse Pain Ethogram [RHpE]) was calculated by 2 blinded observers. The next day, horses underwent gastroscopy and gastric lesions were scored blindly. Results were analyzed using Wilcoxon and Spearman tests.

Results

After 12 weeks of a low starch diet, the Equine Gastric Disease (EGD; 4 [3–5] at T0 vs 1 [0‐1] at T12, P < .01) and RHpE scores (6 [3–13] at T0 vs 3 [0‐6] at T12, P < .01) improved significantly. Squamous, glandular, and EGD scores were positively correlated with RHpE scores (respectively, r = .747, P < .01; r = .743, P < .01 and r = .867, P < .01).

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Gastric disease and pain scores correlated positively in ridden horses. A low starch diet significantly decreases the severity of gastric disease and associated pain score during riding in horses. Gastric ulcers may be mitigated and the comfort of equines athletes improved by dietary adjustments.
Prevalence and Risk Factors of Tinea Capitis Among Primary School Children in the Grand Lomé Region (Togo), 2021: A Cross‐Sectional and Case–Control Study Approach
Authors: Dorkenoo Ameyo M. , Adjetey‐Toglozombio Akovi K. , Alidou Smaila , Etassoli Justin Santrao , Sossou Efoe , Lack Fiali , Afankoutché Massan J. , Awaté Emmanuel , Améyapoh Yaovi
Published: October 2024

Background

Tinea capitis is an infectious dermatosis frequent in children, causative fungi variable over time and space. The risk factors associated with this disease are still poorly understood. The objective of this study was to estimate the prevalence of tinea capitis among schoolchildren in Lomé (Togo), identify the fungal species involved and assess the associated risk factors.

Patients and Methods

It was a cross‐sectional and case–control study conducted in primary schools in Lomé from November 2020 to April 2021. All pupils presenting tinea capitis suspected lesions have been sampled, and the scraping and hair were examined by direct microscopy in KOH solution and cultured in Sabouraud dextrose agar with chloramphenicol and cycloheximide. Positive children were matched by age and sex with those without symptoms for case–control study.

Results

Out of the 15,087 pupils enrolled, 465 had positive cultures for dermatophytes, corresponding to the tinea capitis prevalence of 3.08% (95% CI [2.59–3.57]). Trichophyton mentagrophytes (81.86%) and Trichophyton soudanense (13.12%) were the majors isolated dermatophytes. The risk factors were mostly living in households with domestic animals, showering less than twice a day, having a history of ringworm, having similar lesions in the same household and sharing personal hygiene items.

Conclusion

This study highlights the low prevalence of tinea capitis in schoolchildren in Lomé (Togo), the causative species dominated by T. mentagrophytes and emphasises the importance of environmental and behavioural factors in the mycosis transmission. Implementing preventive measures addressing the identified factors could help to reduce the prevalence of this disease.
Fungal Intracranial Infections (Central Nervous System‐Invasive Fungal Disease) in Patients With Haematological Disorders—A Single‐Centre Retrospective Study
Authors: Chattopadhyay Sohini , Sumanth Lydia Jennifer , Vanjare Harshad Arvind , Lionel Sharon Anbumalar , Selvarajan Sushil , Kulkarni Uday , Abubacker Fouzia N. , Lakshmi Kavitha M. , Korula Anu , Abraham Aby , Mathews Vikram , Michael Joy Sarojini , George Biju
Published: October 2024

Background

Invasive fungal disease (IFD) is a sinister complication encountered in patients with haematological disorders. When occurring in the central nervous system (CNS), IFDs can have catastrophic outcomes.

Objectives

To study the clinical presentation, predisposing etiological factors, and prognosis of a CNS‐IFD in a patient with a haematological disorder.

Patients and Methods

This is a retrospective study focusing on the clinical profile, diagnosis, treatment strategy and outcomes of 43 patients with an underlying haematological disorder, who were diagnosed with CNS‐IFD between 2018 and 2022.

Results

Of the 43 patients, 18 were chemotherapy recipients, while 23 were stem cell transplant (SCT) recipients and 2 presented with CNS‐IFD at diagnosis. AML/MDS (37.2%) and ALL (18.6%) were the predominant underlying diagnoses. A sudden deterioration in sensorium (53.5%) was the earliest clinical sign, while T2 hyperintensities (26.8%), vascular involvement (26.8%) and ring‐enhancing lesions (16.3%) were the commonest radiological findings, with all patients exhibiting diffusion restriction in diffusion‐weighted images. Microbiological evidence of infection was obtained in all patients; however, culture positivity was established in only 25 patients. Rhizopus spp (23.2%) and Aspergillus spp (20.9%) were implicated in most cases. Overall survival of the cohort was 27.9% at a median follow‐up of 6 months. In patients who succumbed, the median time to death was 4 days (0–46).

Conclusion

CNS‐IFD is associated with very poor survival in patients undergoing chemotherapy or an SCT, urging the need for prompt diagnosis and initiation of suitable antifungal therapy.
“Organizing practice”: The hidden work of homecare nurses in fighting health inequity and advancing social justice
Authors: Tind Anitha M. , Hoeck Bente , Andersen Helle Elisabeth , Delmar Charlotte
Published: October 2024

The nursing profession has a long history of advocating for social justice and health equity, and both values profoundly infuse nursing ethics, theory, and education. Homecare nursing occurs between the patient's daily life at home and the public health care system. Therefore, homecare nurses ideally possess insight into the living conditions and social determinants of health that their patients experience. This interpretive phenomenological study explores the strategies employed by homecare nurses to fight health inequity and advance social justice. Data were collected through participant observations, situational interviews, and small group interviews with 12 homecare nurses from two municipalities. Three analytical approaches were used: paradigm cases, exemplars, and thematic analysis. The data identified two primary strategies homecare nurses use to circumvent, solve, and mitigate the negative consequences of social determinants of health on patients' care and treatment: “Negotiating practice” and “Aligning practice.” “Negotiating practice” ensures that care and treatment are delivered in a way acceptable to all involved. “Aligning practice” ensures cohesion, progression in the treatment and care trajectory, and support for patients and relatives in navigating the system. Both strategies are part of nurses' largely hidden work, reflecting the nursing profession's position as nested between the individual patient and the system.
A systematic review and meta‐ethnography exploring personal perspectives of recovery among those with lived experience of non‐suicidal self‐injury
Authors: Hudson Emily , Hemmings Bali , Hartley Samantha , Taylor Peter
Published: October 2024

Background

Non‐suicidal self‐injury (NSSI) is a significant public health concern. Research and treatment interventions largely focus on stopping self‐injury. People who self‐injure do not necessarily equate recovery to cessation. Qualitative accounts allow greater understanding of personal recovery narratives. This study aimed to synthesise personal conceptualisations of NSSI recovery.

Methods

Participants had lived experience of NSSI and discussed their recovery. Papers not written in English or had a quantitative design were excluded. Four databases (PsycInfo, CINAHL, Medline and Web of Science) were systematically searched. The quality of each paper was assessed using the CASP quality assessment tool. Data were synthesised using a meta‐ethnographic approach.

Results

Thirteen studies comprising 159 participants were included. Three overarching themes were developed. While ceasing NSSI was an important aspect of recovery for some, recovery was typically viewed more holistically, encompassing developments within the self and relationships. Recovery was regarded an ongoing non‐linear journey. The personal and multifaceted nature of the recovery process emerged through a line of argument synthesis.

Conclusions

This was the first qualitative synthesis of personal conceptualisations of NSSI recovery. The findings highlighted the personal and multifaceted nature of NSSI recovery and supported person‐centred models of self‐injury recovery. Clinical implications include the importance of expanding self‐injury recovery beyond cessation within research and clinical practice, and for collaborative and person‐centred approaches to be embraced when supporting those who self‐injure.
The Arabidopsis PIP1;1 Aquaporin Represses Lateral Root Development and Nitrate Uptake Under Low Nitrate Availability
Authors: Schley Thayssa Rabelo , Zhu Ting , Geist Birgit , Crabos Amandine , Dietrich Daniela , Alandes Regina A. , Bennett Malcolm , Nacry Philippe , Schäffner Anton R.
Published: October 2024

Nitrate (NO3−) deficiency decreases root water uptake and root hydraulic conductance. This adaptive response is correlated with reduced abundance and activity of plasma membrane intrinsic protein (PIP) aquaporins. We therefore screened changes in the root architecture of a complete set of Arabidopsis pip loss‐of‐function mutants grown under NO3− deficiency to systematically approach the impact of PIPs under these conditions. NO3− deprivation led to attenuated responses of specific pip single mutants compared to the strongly altered LR parameters of wild‐type plants. In particular, pip1;1 exhibited a lower relative reduction in LR length and LR density, revealing that PIP1;1 represses LR development when NO3− is scarce. Indeed, PIP1;1 compromises root and shoot NO3− accumulation during early developmental stages. A fluorescent VENUS‐PIP1;1 fusion revealed that PIP1;1 is specifically repressed in the pericycle, endodermis and at the flanks of emerging LRs upon NO3− deficiency. Thus, LR plasticity and NO3− uptake are affected by an interactive mechanism involving aquaporins (PIP1;1) and nitrate accumulation during seedling development under NO3−‐deficient conditions.
Hyperspectral Imaging Reveals Differential Carotenoid and Chlorophyll Temporal Dynamics and Spatial Patterns in Scots Pine Under Water Stress
Authors: Miettinen Iiro , Zhang Chao , Alonso Luis , Fernández‐Marín Beatriz , García‐Plazaola José I. , Grebe Steffen , Porcar‐Castell Albert , Atherton Jon
Published: October 2024

Drought‐related die‐off events have been observed throughout Europe in Scots pine (Pinus sylvestris L.). Such events are exacerbated by carbon starvation that is, an imbalance of photosynthetic productivity and resource usage. Recent evidence suggests that optically measurable photosynthetic pigments such as chlorophylls and carotenoids respond to water stress (WS). However, there is a lack of measurements using imaging spectroscopy, and the mechanisms linking xanthophyll‐related changes in reflectance captured by the photochemical reflectance index (PRI) and chlorophyll changes in red edge position (REP) to WS are not understood. To probe this, we conducted a greenhouse experiment where 3‐year‐old Pinus sylvestris saplings were subjected to water limitation and followed using hyperspectral imaging (HSI) spectroscopy, water status and photosynthetic measurements. Carotenoids (e.g., xanthophyll cycle) and chlorophylls responded to WS, which was observed using the HSI‐derived indices PRI and REP respectively. The spatial‐temporal response in these two pigment‐reflectance groupings differed. The spatial distribution of PRI represented the light intensity around the time of the measurement, whereas REP reflected the daily averaged light intensity over the experimental course. A further difference was noted upon rewatering, where the carotenoid‐related PRI partially recovered but the chlorophyll‐related REP did not.
Dynamic Landscapes of Long Noncoding RNAs During Early Root Development and Differentiation in Glycine max and Glycine soja
Authors: Liang Qiaoxia , Rehman Hafiz M. , Zhang Jizhou , Lam Hon‐Ming , Chan Ting‐Fung
Published: October 2024

Soybean (Glycine max) is an important crop for its nutritional value. Its wild relative, Glycine soja, provides a valuable genetic resource for improving soybean productivity. Root development and differentiation are essential for soybean plants to take up water and nutrients, store energy and anchor themselves. Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been reported to play critical roles in various biological processes. However, the spatiotemporal landscape of lncRNAs during early root development and differentiation in soybeans is scarcely characterized. Using RNA sequencing and transcriptome assembly, we identified 1578 lncRNAs in G. max and 1454 in G. soja, spanning various root portions and time points. Differential expression analysis revealed 82 and 69 lncRNAs exhibiting spatiotemporally differential expression patterns in G. max and G. soja, respectively, indicating their involvement in the early stage of root architecture formation. By elucidating multiple competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) networks involving lncRNAs, microRNAs and protein‐coding RNAs, we unveiled intricate regulatory mechanisms of lncRNA in early root development and differentiation. Our efforts significantly expand the transcriptome annotations of soybeans, unravel the dynamic landscapes of lncRNAs during early root development and differentiation, and provide valuable resources into the field of soybean root research.