bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Farmer‐friendly delivery of veterinary services: Experimental insights from the Kenyan dairy sector
Authors: Maina Kevin W. , Parlasca Martin C. , Rao Elizaphan J. O. , Qaim Matin
Published: May 2024

Poor health conditions of livestock cause sizeable losses for many farmers in the Global South. Veterinary services, including vaccinations, could help but often fail to reach farmers under typical smallholder conditions. Here, we examine how the provision of a vaccine against East Coast Fever (ECF)—a tick‐borne disease affecting cattle in Africa—can be designed to reduce typical adoption barriers. Using data from a choice experiment with dairy farmers in Kenya, we evaluate farmers' preferences and willingness to pay for various institutional innovations in vaccine delivery, such as a stronger role of dairy cooperatives, new payment modalities with a check‐off system, vaccination at farmers' homestead, and bundling vaccinations with discounts for livestock insurance. Our data reveal that farmers' awareness of the ECF vaccine is limited and adoption rates are low, largely due to institutional constraints. Results from mixed logit and latent class models suggest that suitable institutional innovations—tailored to farmers' heterogeneous conditions—could significantly increase adoption. This general finding likely also holds for other veterinary technologies and services in the Global South.
Computed tomography pulmonary angiogram ordering, adherence to decision rules and yield in the emergency department: An observational study
Authors: Saini Saransh Kumar , Khan Zain Saleem , Do Victor , Keijzers Gerben
Published: May 2024

Objective

Pulmonary embolism (PE) frequently requires diagnosis through CT pulmonary angiogram (CTPA). Appropriate application of evidence‐based clinical decision tools can reduce unnecessary CTPAs. This study assessed adherence to and the efficacy of various aspects of the Queensland Health suspected PE diagnostic pathway, including Wells score, PE rule out criteria (PERC) and age‐adjusted D‐dimer interpretation.

Methods

Retrospective study of CTPAs ordered from 1 January to 30 April 2023 in a tertiary and urban ED in Southeast Queensland. Data on clinical variables, D‐dimer and CTPA results were collected through medical record and radiology database review. Descriptive analyses were used to determine adherence to Queensland guidelines and performance of D‐dimer interpretation tools (including comparison of age‐adjusted PE with a new pre‐test probability [PTP]‐based model using D‐dimer cut‐off <1000 ng/mL for Wells score ≤4 and 500 ng/mL for Wells score 4.5–6).

Results

A total of 573 CTPAs were available for analysis with a 12.4% (95% confidence interval 10.0–15.4) diagnostic yield. Stratification by Wells score showed yields of 4.0%, 18.5% and 41% for low‐, moderate‐ and high‐risk patients, respectively. Twenty‐five patients with low‐PTP who received CTPA could have been excluded with the PERC rule. Age‐adjusted D‐dimer interpretation may have prevented 26 CTPAs with no false negatives, whereas PTP approach may have prevented 128 CTPAs with four false negatives.

Conclusion

Guideline adherence can be improved, and adherence to existing clinical decision tools may reduce unnecessary CTPA ordering and increase diagnostic yield. The use of the age‐adjusted D‐dimer had good sensitivity, whereas the new PTP approach will require further prospective research.
Effect of free and bound proanthocyanidins from Chinese quince on heterocyclic aromatic amine formation and quality in fried chicken
Authors: Wang Shou‐Tao , Zhang Chen‐Xia , Deng Yan‐Hong , Qiu Zhao‐Jie , Chen Zi‐Meng , Qin Zhao , Ma Yu‐Xiang , Liu Hua‐Min , Wang Xue‐De
Published: May 2024

The abilities of Chinese quince free proanthocyanidins (FP) and bound proanthocyanidins (BP) at different levels (0.1%, 0.15%, and 0.3%) to mitigate heterocyclic aromatic amine (HAA) formation in fried chicken patties were investigated for the first time and compared with vitamin C (Vc). FP and BP reduced HAAs in a dose‐dependent manner. Significantly, high concentrations of FP (0.3%) resulted in a reduction of PhIP, harman, and norharman levels by 59.84%, 22.91%, and 38.21%, respectively, in chicken patties. The addition of proanthocyanidins significantly (p < 0.05) reduced the weight loss of fried chicken patties. Furthermore, a positive correlation was observed among pH, weight loss, and total HAA formation in all three groups (FP, BP, and Vc). Multivariate analysis showed that FP had a more pronounced effect than BP from the perspective of enhancing the quality of fried chicken patties and reducing the formation of HAAs. These results indicate that proanthocyanidins, both BP and FP, but especially FP, from Chinese quince can inhibit the formation of carcinogenic HAAs when added to protein‐rich foods that are subsequently fried.
Coffee leaf extract inhibits advanced glycation end products and their precursors: A mechanistic study
Authors: Sun Yu , Xie Wenwen , Huang Yuanyuan , Chen Xiumin
Published: May 2024

Excessive accumulation of advanced glycation end products (AGEs) in the body is associated with diabetes and its complications. In this study, we aimed to explore the potential and mechanism of coffee leaf extract (CLE) in inhibiting the generation of AGEs and their precursors in an in vitro glycation model using bovine serum albumin and glucose (BSA–Glu) for the first time. High‐performance liquid chromatography analysis revealed that CLE prepared with ultrasound pretreatment (CLE‐U) contained higher levels of trigonelline, mangiferin, 3,5‐dicaffeoylquinic acid, and γ‐aminobutyric acid than CLE without ultrasound pretreatment (CLE‐NU). The concentrations of these components, along with caffeine and rutin, were dramatically decreased when CLE‐U or CLE‐NU was incubated with BSA–Glu reaction mixture. Both CLE‐U and CLE‐NU exhibited a dose‐dependent inhibition of fluorescent AGEs, carboxymethyllysine, fructosamine, 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural, 3‐deoxyglucosone, glyoxal, as well as protein oxidation products. Notably, CLE‐U exhibited a higher inhibitory capacity compared to CLE‐NU. CLE‐U effectively quenched fluorescence intensity and increased the α‐helix structure of the BSA–Glu complex. Molecular docking results suggested that the key bioactive compounds present in CLE‐U interacted with the arginine residues of BSA, thereby preventing its glycation. Overall, this research sheds light on the possible application of CLE as a functional ingredient in combating diabetes by inhibiting the generation of AGEs.
The diverse cities of global urban climate governance
Authors: Papin Marielle , Fortier Jacob
Published: May 2024

Global politics has shown increasing interest in cities, particularly in the field of climate policy and governance. Yet, we still have little understanding of which cities engage the most in global urban climate governance. Answering this question is a first step towards understanding who decides for whom in a system that has decisive influence on wider global policy processes. In this article, we seek to identify and analyse the characteristics and position of cities in global urban climate governance to reassess its composition. To do so, we conduct a social network analysis of 15 transnational city networks. Results emphasise that global and large cities are the most central, but small and middle‐size cities are the most numerous actors of the system. Global South cities are larger than their Northern counterparts in the system. Those less central and understudied actors likely have less influence over which norms are shared, yet they should not be seen as followers or imitators of climate policy. It is important to pay more attention to them to understand their multifaceted role in cities' collective efforts to address climate change.
Harmful compared to what? The problem of gaming and ambiguous causal questions
Authors: Magnusson Kristoffer , Johansson Fred , Przybylski Andrew K.
Published: May 2024

Background and aims

There has been much concern regarding potential harmful effects of video game‐play in the past 40 years, but limited progress in understanding its causal role. This paper discusses the basic requirements for identifying causal effects of video game‐play and argues that most research to date has focused upon ambiguous causal questions.

Methods

Video games and mental health are discussed from the perspective of causal inference with compound exposures; that is, exposures with multiple relevant variants that affect outcomes in different ways.

Results

Not only does exposure to video games encompass multiple different factors, but also not playing video games is equally ambiguous. Estimating causal effects of a compound exposure introduces the additional challenge of exposure‐version confounding.

Conclusions

Without a comparison of well‐defined interventions, research investigating the effects of video game‐play will be difficult to translate into actionable health interventions. Interventions that target games should be compared with other interventions aimed at improving the same outcomes.
Mortality from the 1944–1945 famine in Java, Indonesia
Authors: van der Eng Pierre
Published: May 2024

This article examines the human toll of the 1944–1945 famine in Java, Indonesia's main island. It estimates birth and death rates for the Indonesian population in Java during 1941–1951. Using the net population loss method, the article approximates a net loss of 3.3 million people during the 1942–1945 Japanese occupation period. This includes 1.8 million excess deaths; 0.7 million during 1944 and 1.1 million during 1945. The remainder are 1.4 million missing births in 1944 and 1945, associated with the malnutrition of women of childbearing ages and physical separation of wives from husbands recruited by Japanese authorities for forced labour.
Digitally‐enabled, person‐centred care (PCC) in allergen immunotherapy: An ARIA‐EAACI Position Paper
Authors: Pfaar Oliver , Sousa‐Pinto Bernardo , Papadopoulos Nikolaos G. , Larenas‐Linnemann Désirée E. , Ordak Michal , Torres Maria J. , Mösges Ralph , Klimek Ludger , Zuberbier Torsten , Matricardi Paolo M. , Berger Uwe E. , Berger Markus , Dramburg Stephanie , Mahler Vera , Toppila‐Salmi Sanna K. , Bergmann Karl‐Christian , Ollert Markus , Tripodi Salvatore , Jutel Marek , Agache Ioana , Eguiluz‐Gracia Ibon , Canonica G. Walter , Akdis Cezmi A. , Sokolowska Milena , Sofiev Mikhail , Shamji Mohamed H. , Czarlewski Wienczyslawa , Fonseca Joao A. , Bedbrook Anna , Bousquet Jean
Published: May 2024

In rhinitis and asthma, several mHealth apps have been developed but only a few have been validated. However, these apps have a high potential for improving person‐centred care (PCC), especially in allergen immunotherapy (AIT). They can provide support in AIT initiation by selecting the appropriate patient and allergen shared decision‐making. They can also help in (i) the evaluation of (early) efficacy, (ii) early and late stopping rules and (iii) the evaluation of (carried‐over) efficacy after cessation of the treatment course. Future perspectives have been formulated in the first report of a joint task force (TF)—Allergic Rhinitis and Its Impact on Asthma (ARIA) and the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI)—on digital biomarkers. The TF on AIT now aims to (i) outline the potential of the clinical applications of mHealth solutions, (ii) express their current limitations, (iii) make proposals regarding further developments for both clinical practice and scientific purpose and (iv) suggest which of the tools might best comply with the purpose of digitally‐enabled PCC in AIT.
Orchid trade at the source: Epiphytic species with conspicuous flowers in low‐elevation forests are more locally collected in a Philippine key biodiversity area
Authors: Pitogo Kier Mitchel E. , Saavedra Aljohn Jay L.
Published: May 2024

Orchids are the most heavily traded plant group globally, putting pressure on wild populations in many source countries like the Philippines. Despite its rich orchid diversity, there remains a notable gap in understanding the factors driving orchid trade within the country. To address this knowledge gap and support orchid conservation efforts, we utilized a 5‐year orchid diversity dataset extensively collected through floristic field and village garden surveys in one of the largest key biodiversity areas in the southern Philippines. We employed a trait‐based approach to investigate ecological drivers of local orchid collection within this source area. Our results show that around 36% of local orchid diversity have predicted collection risks of ≥50%. Notably, locally collected orchid species exhibited multiple, large, and conspicuously colored flowers that are found in low‐elevation forests and higher up in forest stratum. Elevational distribution and flower size emerged as the strongest predictors, potentially influencing collection preferences. Our analysis of predicted collection risks underscores the vulnerability of both threatened and non‐threatened orchid species to local collection pressures. Moreover, we highlight the practical utility of our trait‐based approach in predicting risks and informing management strategies for local orchid conservation. This research marks a significant step toward identifying ecological drivers influencing orchid trade at its source, providing insights that can inform targeted conservation strategies across many key biodiversity areas for this highly diverse, charismatic, and threatened plant family.
CD44v5 domain regulates crosstalk between TNBC cells and tumor‐associated macrophages by enhancing the IL‐4R/STAT3 axis
Authors: Dai Yanhua , Ji Zhongjian , Liang Hongyan , Jiang Meng , Wang Lan , Bao Xinyi , Liu Jiaren , Liu Ming , Yang Chun
Published: May 2024

Triple‐negative breast cancer (TNBC) has greater infiltration of M2‐like macrophages (TAMs), which enhances cancer cell invasion and leads to a poor prognosis. TNBC progression is mediated by both tumor cells and the tumor microenvironment (TME). Here we elucidate the mechanism of the interaction between TNBC cells and TAMs. In this study, we confirmed that CD44v5 is highly expressed in TNBC, which drives TNBC cell metastasis and promotes TAM polarization by co‐localizing with IL4Rα and inhibiting its internalization and degradation, thereby promoting activation of the STAT3/IL6 signaling axis. At the same time, TAMs also facilitate TNBC cell metastasis by secreting IL‐4, IL‐6, and other cytokines, in which the IL‐4/IL‐4R/STAT3/IL‐6 signaling axis plays the same role for TNBC cells responding to TAMs. Moreover, we found that the above progress could be suppressed when the CD44v5 domain was blocked. We demonstrated that the CD44v5/IL‐4R/STAT3/IL‐6 signaling pathway plays a key role in TNBC cell metastasis, and in TNBC cells inducing TAM polarization and responding to TAMs, promoting metastasis. Collectively, we suggest that the CD44v5 domain may be a promising target for regulating the TME of TNBC as well as treating TNBC.
Structural and molecular insights from dual inhibitors of EGFR and VEGFR2 as a strategy to improve the efficacy of cancer therapy
Authors: Budipramana Krisyanti , Sangande Frangky
Published: May 2024

Epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) and vascular endothelial growth factor 2 (VEGFR2) are known as valid targets for cancer therapy. Overexpression of EGFR induces uncontrolled cell proliferation and VEGF expression triggering angiogenesis via VEGFR2 signaling. On the other hand, VEGF expression independent of EGFR signaling is already known as one of the mechanisms of resistance to anti‐EGFR therapy. Therefore, drugs that act as dual inhibitors of EGFR and VEGFR2 can be a solution to the problem of drug resistance and increase the effectiveness of therapy. In this review, we summarize the relationship between EGFR and VEGFR2 signal transduction in promoting cancer growth and how their kinase domain structures can affect the selectivity of an inhibitor as the basis for designing dual inhibitors. In addition, several recent studies on the development of dual EGFR and VEGFR2 inhibitors involving docking simulations were highlighted in this paper to provide some references such as pharmacophore features of inhibitors and key residues for further research, especially in computer‐aided drug design.
How does caregiver–child conversation during a scientific storybook reading impact children's mindset beliefs and persistence?
Authors: Haber Amanda S. , Kumar Sona C. , Leech Kathryn A. , Corriveau Kathleen H.
Published: May 2024

This study explores how caregiver–child scientific conversation during storybook reading focusing on the challenges or achievements of famous female scientists impacts preschoolers' mindset, beliefs about success, and persistence. Caregiver–child dyads (N = 202, 100 female, 35% non‐White, aged 4–5, ƒ = .15) were assigned to one of three storybook conditions, highlighting the female scientist's achievements, effort, or, in a baseline condition, neither. Children were asked about their mindset, presented with a persistence task, and asked about their understanding of effort and success. Findings demonstrate that storybooks highlighting effort are associated with growth mindset, attribution of success to hard work, and increased persistence. Caregiver language echoed language from the assigned storybook, showing the importance of reading storybooks emphasizing hard work.
The Hippo signalling pathway in bone homeostasis: Under the regulation of mechanics and aging
Authors: Li Zhengda , Lin Junqing , Wu Jing , Suo Jinlong , Wang Zuoyun
Published: May 2024

The Hippo signalling pathway is a conserved kinase cascade that orchestrates diverse cellular processes, such as proliferation, apoptosis, lineage commitment and stemness. With the onset of society ages, research on skeletal aging‐mechanics‐bone homeostasis has exploded. In recent years, aging and mechanical force in the skeletal system have gained groundbreaking research progress. Under the regulation of mechanics and aging, the Hippo signalling pathway has a crucial role in the development and homeostasis of bone. We synthesize the current knowledge on the role of the Hippo signalling pathway, particularly its downstream effectors yes‐associated protein (YAP) and transcriptional co‐activator with PDZ‐binding motif (TAZ), in bone homeostasis. We discuss the regulation of the lineage specification and function of different skeletal cell types by the Hippo signalling pathway. The interactions of the Hippo signalling pathway with other pathways, such as Wnt, transforming growth factor beta and nuclear factor kappa‐B, are also mentioned because of their importance for modulating bone homeostasis. Furthermore, YAP/TAZ have been extensively studied as mechanotransducers. Due to space limitations, we focus on reviewing how mechanical forces and aging influence cell fate, communications and homeostasis through a dysregulated Hippo signalling pathway.
Effect of semaglutide 2.4 mg on physical functioning and weight‐ and health‐related quality of life in adults with overweight or obesity: Patient‐reported outcomes from the STEP 1–4 trials
Authors: Rubino Domenica , Bjorner Jakob B. , Rathor Naveen , Sharma Arya M. , von Huth Smith Lisa , Wharton Sean , Wadden Thomas , Zeuthen Niels , Kolotkin Ronette L.
Published: May 2024

Aims

To summarize the effects of semaglutide 2.4 mg on weight‐related quality of life (WRQOL) and health‐related quality of life (HRQOL), focusing on the confirmatory secondary endpoint of physical functioning.

Materials and Methods

The STEP 1–4 Phase 3a, 68‐week, double‐blind, randomized controlled trials assessed the efficacy and safety of semaglutide 2.4 mg versus placebo in individuals with overweight/obesity. WRQOL and HRQOL were assessed by change from baseline to Week 68 in two different but complementary measures, the Impact of Weight on Quality of Life‐Lite Clinical Trials Version (IWQOL‐Lite‐CT; STEP 1 and 2) and the SF‐36v2 Health Survey Acute (SF‐36v2; STEP 1–4).

Results

Superiority for semaglutide 2.4 mg over placebo based on IWQOL‐Lite‐CT and SF‐36v2 physical functioning scores was confirmed in STEP 1 and 2 and in STEP 1, 2 and 4, respectively. At Week 68, a greater proportion of participants treated with semaglutide 2.4 mg than with placebo reached meaningful within‐person change (MWPC) thresholds for IWQOL‐Lite‐CT Physical Function scores in STEP 1 (51.8% vs. 28.3%; p < 0.0001) and STEP 2 (39.6% vs. 29.5%; p = 0.0083) and the MWPC threshold for SF‐36v2 Physical Functioning in STEP 1 (39.8% vs. 24.1%; p < 0.0001), STEP 2 (41.0% vs. 27.3%; p = 0.0005) and STEP 4 (18.0% vs. 6.6%; p < 0.0001). All other IWQOL‐Lite‐CT and SF‐36v2 scale scores in STEP 1–4 were numerically improved with semaglutide 2.4 mg versus placebo, except for SF‐36v2 Role Emotional in STEP 2.

Conclusions

Semaglutide 2.4 mg significantly improved physical functioning, with greater proportions of participants achieving MWPC compared with placebo, and showed beneficial effects on WRQOL and HRQOL beyond physical functioning.
Soluble receptor of advanced glycation end product as a biomarker in neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders: A meta‐analysis of controlled studies
Authors: Nameni Ghazaleh , Jazayeri Shima , Fatahi Somaye , Jamshidi Sanaz , Zaroudi Marsa
Published: May 2024

Background & Objectives

Currently, there is a significant focus on the decrease of soluble receptor of advanced glycation end products (sRAGE) in neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders. sRAGE plays a decoy role against the inflammatory response of advanced glycation end products (AGE), which has led to increased interest in its role in these disorders. This meta‐analysis aimed to investigate the significant differences in sRAGE levels between neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders compared to control groups.

Method

A systematic review was conducted using the PUBMED, Scopus and Embase databases up to October 2023. Two reviewers assessed agreement for selecting papers based on titles and abstracts, with kappa used to measure agreement and finally publications were scanned according to controlled studies. Effect sizes were calculated as weighted mean differences (WMD) and pooled using a random effects model. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2, followed by subgroup analysis and meta‐regression tests. Quality assessment was performed using the Newcastle‐Ottawa Quality Assessment Scale.

Results

In total, 16 studies were included in the present meta‐analysis. Subjects with neurocognitive (n = 1444) and neuropsychiatric (n = 444) disorders had lower sRAGE levels in case–control (WMD: −0.21, 95% CI: −0.33, −0.10; p <.001) and cross‐sectional (WMD: −0.29, 95% CI = −0.44, −0.13, p <.001) studies with high heterogeneity and no publication bias. In subgroup analysis, subjects with cognitive impairment (WMD: −0.87, 95% CI: −1.61, −0.13, p =.000), and age >50 years (WMD: −0.39, 95% CI: −0.74, −0.05, p =.000), had lower sRAGE levels in case–control studies. Also, dementia patients (WMD: −0.41, 95% CI: −0.72, −0.10, p =.014) with age >50 years (WMD: −0.33, 95% CI: −0.54, −0.13, p = 0.000) and in Asian countries (WMD: −0.28, 95% CI: −0.42, −0.13, p =.141) had lower sRAGE levels in cross‐sectional studies.

Conclusion

This meta‐analysis revealed a significant reduction in sRAGE in neurocognitive and neuropsychiatric disorders particularly in Asians and moderate age.
Modelling 21st century refugia and impact of climate change on Amazonia's largest primates
Authors: Cavalcante Thiago , Barnett Adrian A. , Van doninck Jasper , Tuomisto Hanna
Published: May 2024

Edaphic and vegetation conditions can render climatically suitable sites inadequate for a species to persist, constraining the amount of suitable habitat and the possibilities of tracking preferred climatic conditions as they shift in response to climate change. We combined climatic and remotely sensed data to model current and future distributions of nine extant taxa of ateline primates across the Amazon basin. We used the models to identify and quantify potential range changes and refugia of suitable habitat from the present to the latter half of the 21st century. We applied an ensemble forecasting approach for species distribution models using 596 spatially rarefied occurrences. We parameterised these models combining reflectance data from a basin‐wide Landsat TM/ETM+ image composite, and three sets of bioclimatic layers containing data for the current time period, and two different (moderate and worst‐case) climate change scenarios for 2041–2070. Eight out of nine taxa are likely to experience pronounced range losses, with seven of them predicted to lose over 50% of their currently suitable habitats irrespective of climate change scenarios. Modelled ateline richness exhibited a broad decrease in high‐richness areas, and a possible redistribution along the northernmost parts of western Amazonia. Refugia from 21st century climate change for the whole complex were mostly concentrated in western Amazonia, especially in its southern part. We identified hotspots of vulnerability to climate change and 21st century refugia for all Amazonian atelines while accounting for habitat characteristics that are important to guarantee the continued existence of suitable habitats for these strictly arboreal taxa. Increasing the understanding of climate change impacts on Amazonia's largest primates can help to inform spatial conservation planning decisions and management to sustain forest‐dwelling biodiversity over large areas such as Amazonia.
Cross‐talk between leukemic and immune cells at the tumor microenvironment in chronic lymphocytic leukemia: An update review
Authors: Taghiloo Saeid , Asgarian‐Omran Hossein
Published: May 2024

Chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) is a mature‐type B cell malignancy correlated with significant changes and defects in both the innate and adaptive arms of the immune system, together with a high dependency on the tumor microenvironment. Overall, the tumor microenvironment (TME) in CLL provides a supportive niche for leukemic cells to grow and survive, and interactions between CLL cells and the TME can contribute to disease progression and treatment resistance. Therefore, the increasing knowledge of the complicated interaction between immune cells and tumor cells, which is responsible for immune evasion and cancer progression, has provided an opportunity for the development of new therapeutic approaches. In this review, we outline tumor microenvironment‐driven contributions to the licensing of immune escape mechanisms in CLL patients.
The critical role of P2XR/PGC‐1α signalling pathway in hypoxia‐mediated pyroptosis and M1/M2 phenotypic differentiation of mouse microglia
Authors: Yang Hao , Shao Zhen‐hua , Jin Xian , Chen Jia‐wei
Published: May 2024

Microglia are endogenous immune cells in the brain, and their pyroptosis and phenotype dichotomy are proved to play roles in neurodegenerative diseases. We investigated whether and how hypoxia affected pyroptosis and phenotype polarization in mouse microglia. Primary mouse microglia and BV2 microglia were exposed to hypoxia. Pyroptosis and M1/M2 phenotype were assessed by measuring gasdermin D truncation and M1/M2 surface marker expression. Mechanisms including purinergic ionotropic receptor (P2XR), peroxisome proliferator‐activated receptor coactivator‐1α (PGC‐1α) and NOD‐like receptor protein 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome were investigated. We reported hypoxia (90% N2, 5% O2 and 5% CO2) induced pyroptosis and promoted M1 phenotype polarization in primary mouse microglia and BV2 microglia, and the effect appeared after 6 h exposure. Although hypoxia (90% N2, 5% O2 and 5% CO2, 6 h) had no effect on P2X1R and P2X7R expression, it increased P2X4R expression and decreased PGC‐1α expression. Interestingly, blockade of P2X4R or P2X7R abolished hypoxia‐modulated PGC‐1α expression, pyroptosis and M1 polarization. PGC‐1α overexpression or overactivation alleviated hypoxia‐induced pyroptosis and M1 polarization, while PGC‐1α knockdown or deactivation promoted pyroptosis and M1 polarization under normoxic situation. Further, hypoxia induced NLRP3 expression and activated caspase‐1 and induced the phosphorylation of NF‐κB and reduced the phosphorylation of STAT3/6. NLRP3 inhibitor and caspase‐1 inhibitor abolished hypoxia‐induced pyroptosis, while NF‐κB inhibitor and STAT phosphorylation inducer ameliorated hypoxia‐induced M1 polarization. In addition, NF‐κB activator and STAT3/6 inhibitor caused microglia M1 polarization under normoxic situation. We concluded in cultured mouse microglia, hypoxia may induce pyroptosis via P2XR/PGC‐1α/NLRP3/caspase‐1 pathway and trigger M1 polarization through P2XR/PGC‐1α/NF‐κB/STAT3/6 pathway.
Serum neurofilament light chain and glial fibrillary acidic protein for predicting response to apheresis in steroid‐refractory multiple sclerosis relapses
Authors: Vardakas Ioannis , Dorst Johannes , Huss André , Mayer Benjamin , Fangerau Tanja , Taranu Daniela , Tumani Hayrettin , Senel Makbule
Published: May 2024

Background and purpose

The predictive value of serum neurofilament light chain (sNfL) and serum glial fibrillary acidic protein (sGFAP) for apheresis outcome in steroid‐refractory multiple sclerosis (MS) relapse has not yet been evaluated.

Methods

We used pre‐ and postapheresis serum samples from 38 participants of the IAPEMS trial (clinicaltrials.gov: NCT02671682), which investigated the use of immunoadsorption versus plasma exchange for the treatment of steroid‐refractory MS attacks. Response to apheresis was classified based on improvement on (i) the Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS), (ii) the affected functional system scores (FSS) of the EDSS, or (iii) the visual acuity for patients with optic neuritis, 4 weeks postapheresis. sNFL and sGFAP were measured by single molecule arrays.

Results

Preprocedural sGFAP levels could discriminate between responders and nonresponders, determined by FSS improvement (p = 0.017). In multivariate logistic regression analysis, younger age (odds ratio [OR] = 0.781, 95% confidence interval [CI] = 0.635–0.962, p = 0.020) and lower sGFAP levels (OR = 0.948, 95% CI = 0.903–0.995, p = 0.031) could predict response to apheresis in the overall cohort. We could observe a trend towards a favourable apheresis outcome with higher sNfL levels (OR = 1.413, 95% CI = 0.965–2.069, p = 0.076). Analysis of the sNfL‐to‐sGFAP ratio showed an OR of 1.924 (95% CI = 1.073–3.451, p = 0.028) for predicting apheresis response. The ratio showed a better predictive value than the individual parameters. Neither biomarker was affected by the number of steroid cycles preapheresis.

Conclusions

Lower sGFAP levels, a higher sNfL‐to‐sGFAP ratio, and younger age are associated with a favourable apheresis outcome.
Dispersal and connectivity in increasingly extreme climatic conditions
Authors: Hofmann David D. , Behr Dominik M. , McNutt John W. , Ozgul Arpat , Cozzi Gabriele
Published: May 2024

While climate change has been shown to impact several life‐history traits of wild‐living animal populations, little is known about its effects on dispersal and connectivity. Here, we capitalize on the highly variable flooding regime of the Okavango Delta to investigate the impacts of changing environmental conditions on the dispersal and connectivity of the endangered African wild dog (Lycaon pictus). Based on remote sensed flood extents observed over 20 years, we derive two extreme flood scenarios: a minimum and a maximum flood extent, representative of very dry and very wet environmental periods. These conditions are akin to those anticipated under increased climatic variability, as it is expected under climate change. Using a movement model parameterized with GPS data from dispersing individuals, we simulate 12,000 individual dispersal trajectories across the ecosystem under both scenarios and investigate patterns of connectivity. Across the entire ecosystem, surface water coverage during maximum flood extent reduces dispersal success (i.e., the propensity of individuals to disperse between adjacent subpopulations) by 12% and increases dispersal durations by 17%. Locally, however, dispersal success diminishes by as much as 78%. Depending on the flood extent, alternative dispersal corridors emerge, some of which in the immediate vicinity of human‐dominated landscapes. Notably, under maximum flood extent, the number of dispersing trajectories moving into human‐dominated landscapes decreases by 41% at the Okavango Delta's inflow, but increases by 126% at the Delta's distal end. This may drive the amplification of human–wildlife conflict. While predicting the impacts of climate change on environmental conditions on the ground remains challenging, our results highlight that environmental change may have significant consequences for dispersal patterns and connectivity, and ultimately, population viability. Acknowledging and anticipating such impacts will be key to effective conservation strategies and to preserve vital dispersal corridors in light of climate change and other human‐related landscape alterations.
A surgical checklist for optimizing the quality and outcomes of transurethral resection of bladder tumors: A literature review
Authors: Taoka Rikiya , Sugimoto Mikio
Published: May 2024

To preserve the bladder without compromising survival, further treatments need to be optimized to prevent the recurrence and progression of non‐muscle invasive bladder cancer. In clinical practice, transurethral resection of bladder tumors is essential for bladder cancer management. The primary goal of surgery is to achieve accurate pathological evaluation and complete resection of bladder cancer; high resection quality is required for the procedure. A representative surrogate indicator of the resection quality is the presence of the detrusor muscle in the resection specimen. Therefore, complete visual resection of bladder cancer with a muscle layer is crucial for decreasing the recurrence and progression rates of non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer. However, this procedure is complex and requires sufficient experience and knowledge to be performed thoroughly, safely, and efficiently. Surgical checklists represent an approach to filling the knowledge and experience gaps and improving the quality and safety of surgery. By checking items during transurethral resection, it is expected that the recording of risk factors related to recurrence and progression will improve, the rate of visually complete resection with muscles will increase, and the rate of intravesical recurrence will decrease. The simplicity of checklists is an additional benefit. In recent years, surgical checklists have received increasing attention in order to achieve high‐quality resections and reduce disparities between surgeons and institutions. This literature review outlines the evolving treatment strategies for patients with non‐muscle‐invasive bladder cancer, focusing on surgical checklists for the transurethral resection of bladder tumors.
Estimating the Undetected Burden of Respiratory Syncytial Virus Hospitalizations in Adults Through Capture–Recapture Methods
Authors: Howa Amanda C. , Zhu Yuwei , Wyatt Dayna , Markus Tiffanie , Chappell James D. , Halasa Natasha , Trabue Christopher H. , Schaffner William , Grijalva Carlos G. , Talbot H. Keipp
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Traditional surveillance systems may underestimate the burden caused by respiratory syncytial virus (RSV). Capture–recapture methods provide alternatives for estimating the number of RSV‐related hospitalizations in a population.

Methods

Capture–recapture methods were used to estimate the number of RSV‐related hospitalizations in adults in Middle Tennessee from two independent hospitalization surveillance systems during consecutive respiratory seasons from 2016–2017 to 2019–2020. Data from the Hospitalized Adult Influenza Vaccine Effectiveness Network (HAIVEN) and the Emerging Infections Program (EIP) were used. Annual RSV hospitalization rates were calculated using the capture–recapture estimates weighted by hospitals' market share divided by the corresponding census population.

Results

Using capture–recapture methods, the estimated overall adult hospitalization rates varied from 8.3 (95% CI: 5.9–15.4) RSV‐related hospitalizations per 10,000 persons during the 2016–2017 season to 28.4 (95% CI: 18.2–59.0) hospitalizations per 10,000 persons in the 2019–2020 season. The proportion of hospitalizations that HAIVEN determined ranged from 8.7% to 36.7% of the total capture–recapture estimated hospitalization, whereas EIP detected 23.5% to 52.7% of the total capture–recapture estimated hospitalizations.

Conclusion

Capture–recapture estimates showed that individual traditional surveillance systems underestimated the hospitalization burden in adults. Using capture–recapture allows for a more comprehensive estimate of RSV hospitalizations.
Regulating interfacial diffusion of nanocrystal‐in‐glass composites: Insights from atomistic simulation
Authors: Wan Tianze , Wu Minbo , Pan Qiwen , Deng Lu , Zhang Hao , Huang Xiongjian , Yin Bozhao , Qiu Jianrong , Yang Zhongmin , Dong Guoping
Published: May 2024

By combining the spectroscopic quality of a crystalline phase with the outstanding thermal and chemical stability of the matrix glass, nanocrystal‐in‐glass composites (NGCs) exhibit excellent optical properties. However, strong interfacial diffusion occurs during high‐temperature encapsulation, leading to the erosion of the nanocrystals and detrimental effects on the final performance. The control of interfacial diffusion has so far relied on intuition and experience, with the underlying physical mechanisms remaining largely unknown. In this study, through atomistic simulations and experimental verification, we have developed atomic models of NGCs, revealing the dynamic characteristics of the interface and elucidating how the glass structure can regulate the interface diffusion. Finally, we demonstrate how a tunable interface can be achieved through compositional adjustments of the glass matrix.
Effect of oxygen substitution and oxycarbide formation on oxidation of Ti3AlC2 MAX phase
Authors: Anayee Mark , Shekhirev Mikhail , Wang Ruocun (John) , Gogotsi Yury
Published: May 2024

MAX phases, ternary transition metal carbides and nitrides, represent one of the largest families of layered materials. They also serve as precursors to MXenes, two‐dimensional (2D) carbides and nitrides. The possibility of oxygen substitution in the carbon sublattice, forming oxycarbide MAX phases and MXenes, was recently reported using secondary ion mass spectrometry. However, while the effect of oxygen substitution on the properties of MXenes was investigated, little is known about its effect on the properties of MAX phases. Here, we explore the influence of process parameters (e.g., particle size, synthesis temperature, annealing time, etc.) and oxygen presence in the lattice on the oxidation resistance of Ti3AlC2 MAX phase powders. We show that X‐ray diffraction measurements can identify oxygen substitution and assist in selecting MAX precursors to synthesize stable and highly conductive MXenes. Eliminating the substitutional oxygen from the MAX phase lattice increases the onset of oxidation by 400°C, from approximately 490 to 890°C. Finally, we discuss the impact of oxygen substitution in the MAX phases on the synthesis of MXenes and their resulting properties.
Assessing the effects of cold storage regimes of North American Bombus Gynes
Authors: Lindsay Thuy Tien T. , Hagen Marcia M. , Knoblett Joyce N. , Rinehart Joseph P. , Kapheim Karen M. , Strange James P.
Published: May 2024

Bumble bees are the primary commercial pollinators for greenhouse‐grown crops and managing them requires insight into the Bombus life cycle. However, some aspects of the life cycle are not fully understood. Once mated, adult Bombus gynes can be stored for a short term at a constant low temperature (CLT). However, survival rates for some species are low during CLT, particularly when storage periods exceed a month. To address this, we tested the hypothesis that Bombus gynes stored in a fluctuating thermal regime (FTR) have increased survival compared to gynes stored in CLT. Specifically, the FTR had a baseline temperature of 2°C, with a daily fluctuation to 20°C relative to the CLT of 2°C with no warming pulse. We tested the effects of FTR on gyne survival and post‐cold storage lipid content in three species used for commercial pollination in North America: B. vosnesenskii, B. huntii and B. impatiens. We further assessed how additional factors influence cold storage survival, including gyne body weight, body size and colony age. Survival responses varied among species. Bombus vosnesenskii and B. huntii had a lower survival rate in FTR compared to CLT, but B. impatiens gynes had a significantly higher survival rate in FTR. We did not observe significant effects of FTR on lipid stores for any species, but survival increased with an increasing initial weight prior to cold storage. Moreover, gynes produced later in the colony life cycle had lower body weight and decreased survival compared to early emerging gynes. Our study provides insight into how cold storage conditions interact with colony and gyne characteristics to influence captive overwintering survival. Our findings have economic applications for improving commercial rearing and efforts for conservation rearing of at‐risk Bombus species.
Framework to elicit consent from lightly sedated mechanically ventilated intensive care patients in nursing practice
Authors: Onishi Yoko , Murai Yoshiko , Nakajima Emiko
Published: May 2024

Aim

The study aimed to ascertain a framework of nursing practices to elicit consent from lightly sedated ventilated patients.

Methods

Study participants were nurses working in intensive care and critical care wards, whose observations and semi‐structured interviews were assessed using a modified grounded theory approach.

Results

A total of 15 concepts were generated, from which three categories and three subcategories were generated. Category 1: Nurses taking the lead in providing assistance by sharing signs of change while continuing the invasive treatment, working to maintain the patient's life, alleviation of pain, promotion of awareness of the current situation, and acclimating them to the treatment environment as the basis for building a relationship between patients and nurses. Category 2: Searching for points of agreement and reaching a compromise involves the nurse drawing out the patient's thoughts, hopes, and expectations, and transforming the relationship into a patient‐centered one by sharing goals with the patient in order to achieve them. Category 3: Organizing collaboration within care supported the patient's ability to move safely while maintaining the patient's pace to achieve shared goals, and guided the patient's independent actions.

Conclusions

Even when patients recover from an acute life‐threatening situation, their physical sensations remain vague and their functional decline continues. Rather than simply eliciting consent from patients, the structure of nursing practice to elicit such response from patients involves drawing out the patient's thoughts, hopes, and expectations, as well as guiding the patient toward goals that they have created together with the nurse and utilizing the patient's strengths to achieve these goals.
Critical race theory and COVID‐19 vaccination: An experimental test of interest convergence
Authors: Trawalter Sophie , Druckman James N. , Henderson Kyshia
Published: May 2024

Critical Race Theory (CRT) offers crucial insights into the persistence of racism. The theory also identifies the conditions under which White Americans will support policies aimed at redressing racial inequities. According to the tenet of interest convergence, White Americans will support policies aimed at redressing racial inequities when it serves their interests to do so; that is, when their interests converge with those of Black people. Here, we provide an experimental test of interest convergence in the context of the COVID‐19 pandemic. Consistent with interest convergence, we find that White support for race‐conscious policies aimed at redressing COVID‐19 inequities increased when policies were framed as benefiting White people (i.e., a benefits frame). White support decreased when policies were framed as only benefiting Black people and was unmoved by a frame that accentuated systemic racism. Further, the impact of the benefit frame was not moderated by racial attitudes or political ideology. The results offer a sobering reminder that racial progress does not necessarily reflect shifts in White people's prejudice and consciousness, but rather shifts in their interests.
Probiotics enhance alveolar bone microarchitecture, intestinal morphology and estradiol levels in osteoporotic animals
Authors: Lucateli R. L. , Silva P. H. F. , Salvador S. L. , Ervolino E. , Furlaneto F. A. C. , Marciano M. A. , Antunes T. B. M. , Del Arco M. C. G. , Tardelli M. D. C. , de Sousa L. G. , Messora M. R.
Published: May 2024

Background and Objective

Osteoporosis is associated with bone microarchitecture alterations, and the depletion of estrogen during menopause is a major contributing factor to its development. The literature highlights the noteworthy role of gut microbiota in bone metabolism, particularly in the progression of osteoporosis. Periodontal disease leads to alveolar bone loss, which may be influenced by estrogen deficiency, and this mechanism is intricately associated with an imbalance in systemic microbiota. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effects of Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN019 (B. lactis HN019) and Lacticaseibacillus casei 01 (L. casei 01) administrations on an osteoporosis animal model.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐three female rats were randomly divided into three groups: control (C‐OVX), C‐OVX‐HN019 and C‐OVX‐LC01. All animals were ovariectomized. In groups C‐OVX‐HN019 and C‐OVX‐LC01, the probiotics were administered for 4 months. All animals were euthanized after 16 weeks from ovariectomy. Microtomographic, histopathological and immunohistochemical examinations were conducted on periodontal tissues, whereas histomorphometry, histopathological and immunohistochemical analyses were carried out on the intestine. The levels of estradiol were assessed in blood using an immunoenzymatic assay. The data were subjected to statistical analyses (p < .05).

Results

The C‐OVX‐LC01 group exhibited a significant reduction in alveolar bone porosity and an increase in connective tissue density compared to C‐OVX (p < .05). The C‐OVX‐HN019 and C‐OVX‐LC01 groups presented reduced expression of TRAP and RANKL compared to the C‐OVX (p < .05). The C‐OVX group presented villi defects, mild neutrophil infiltration, decrease in both villous height and intestinal crypts and reduced expression of intestinal junctional epithelium markers e‐cadherin and claudin 01 compared to C‐OVX‐HN019 and C‐OVX‐LC01 (p < .05). The C‐OVX group had lower estradiol levels than C‐OVX‐HN019 and C‐OVX‐LC01 (p < .05).

Conclusion

The probiotic therapy promoted a reduction in alveolar bone destruction and intestinal permeability as well as an increase in estradiol levels in ovariectomized rats. Specifically, the probiotic strain Lacticaseibacillus casei 01 exhibited greater effectiveness compared to Bifidobacterium animalis subsp. lactis HN019, indicating strain‐dependent outcomes.